JUN 20 The Pioneer 2025 by Pioneer Publishers

De La Salle caps high school sports year with 2 Northern California titles

De La Salle High School opened in 1965 and over its first 14 years established a reputation as providing a fine Catholic education for boys in the central Contra Costa area.

Then in 1979 the school hired 25-year-old Bob Ladouceur to run a football program that had never had a winning season. Not only did Coach Lad make history with his Spartans football team’s exploits that led to a Hollywood motion picture and multiple books published, but he ignited an engine that made De La Salle a power in virtually every sport in the ensuing decades.

The 2024-25 high school sports year ended earlier this month, and the Concord school claimed Northern California championships in golf and baseball to go with its football team’s top NorCal billing last fall. And its North Coast Section open division basketball champi-

For the third time in four years, De La Salle are the Northern California high

See De La Salle, pg B1

Watkins named Kiwanis Firefighter of the Year

Coming wildfire season expected to again be intense

Theresa Watkins is one of 11 women currently serving in the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, and in accepting the Kiwanis’ annual June Firefighter of the Year award, she surely will not be the last.

“It’s a peer selection and it is very well deserved,” said Chief Lewis Broschard of the Fire Engineer-Paramedic, being tabbed for the honor.

Watkin’s name was put forth by the Honor and Dignity Committee to the chiefs for their consideration.

“Theresa Watkins was awarded Firefighter of the Year for her outstanding leadership, dedication to service and exemplary contributions to the fire service community. Her peers describe her as a model firefighter whose professionalism, teamwork and passion for helping others set her apart,” according to a statement from Con Fire.

She joined CCCFPD in 2022 after beginning her fire service career as a Firefighter-EMT with Rodeo-Hercules Fire District on July 1, 2014. While rising to the rank of captain in her previous department, Watkins embraced

the opportunity to start over as Firefighter-Paramedic, demonstrating “her humility and relentless drive to serve demonstrated her unwavering dedication to the department and her community,” stated district officials.

The honor of top firefighter comes a year to the day when Watkins was promoted to her current position of Fire Engineer-Paramedic.

Fire officials also pointed to her personal journey, overcoming the challenges of homelessness in her youth, is an inspiration to all, “Her resilience, determination and commitment to making a difference are core to her work ethos.”

A defining moment that showcases Watkin’s extraordinary skills occurred during a critical call where she led a team in

the successful resuscitation of a patient in cardiac arrest.

Her quick thinking, leadership and medical expertise saved the patient’s life, and the individual fully recovered with no neurological damage – an outcome that reflects her exceptional ability to perform under pressure, Con Fire officials stated.

Away from the job, Watkins is deeply involved in outreach efforts, including coaching youth, teaching at Cal Maritime and actively recruiting women and minorities into the fire service, which included committing her time to ConFire’s Girls Empowerment Camp.

Her peers also touted her strong advocate for mentorship and development, contributing

From morning fun runs and walks and parades and afternoon old fashioned picnics in central parks, culminating mid evening with the rockets red glare of fireworks extravaganzas, there are events happening from morning to dusk in Concord, Pleasant Hill, and Clayton on the 4th of July.

CONCORD

Runs and walks begin at 8 a.m. with the Kids Fun Run. Following the National Anthem at 8:10 a.m., the 5K run and Walk will kick off. All participantson the course must have a race bib visible on the front of their body at all times. There will be 2 water stops/aid stations on the course (at miles 1 and 2) and a ton of delicious and refreshing postrace goodies and bottled water. No bikes, scooters, skates or skateboards will be allowed on the course.

Photo ops with Stomper the Oakland

A’s mascot and Uncle Sam will be available too.

Afterwards, tuck into a hearty $5 pancake breakfast served by the Concord/Diablo Rotary Club that is available from 8 to 11 a.m.

Concord’s famous and fantastic 4th of July Parade rolls off at 10 a.m., complete with bands including the Blue Devils Marching Band, classic cars, unique floats, equestrian and dance teams, community groups and a whole lot more.

The theme for this year’s 34th annual Independence Day parade Is “Rockin’ Red, White, and Blue!”in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Concord Pavilion. The funs continues in the afternoon and evening with the gates opening at 4 p.m. for the 11 annual 4th of July festivities at Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant St.

In a scathing report released June 2, the Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury laid bare a troubling pattern of

mismanagement and

violations by the

Council – many of which were first raised by this

in a March 2024 editorial calling for a Grand Jury investigation. It seems the Jury was listening.

The report paints a picture of a small city struggling with big issues: chronic staff turnover, failure to follow its own rules, opaque decisionmaking and inaction in the face of growing financial trouble. Most damning, the Jury found that Clayton’s governance has repeatedly fallen short of state laws like the Brown Act and the city’s own policies.

REVOLVING DOOR AT CITY HALL In “Clayton: Small City, Big Concerns,” the Grand Jury focused significant attention on the alarming rate of senior staff turnover. Between 2019 and 2024, Clayton cycled through 12 city managers –including four permanent and eight interim or acting managers – while most cities in the county had just one or two during the same period. In addition, Clayton had eight finance directors/managers and five community development directors in just six years. The Jury concluded that this level of instability undermines continuity and erodes public trust, noting that poor interactions between councilmembers and staff likely contributed to the exodus.

The report revealed that the council failed for years to follow its own guidelines when deciding which items made it onto meeting agendas. Until 2025,

Photo courtesy of De La Salle High School/Tod Fierner

Pete Cruz

David Scholz

Fire Engineer-Paramedic Theresa Watkins proudly holds the Fire Fighter of the Year plaque alongsideKiwanis Club of ConcordPresident Rocci Barsotti at the conclusion of the group’s luncheon on June6.

JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

TAMARA STEINER The Pioneer

DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

Oakhurst neighbors approve controversial fee hike

CLAYTON – In a deeply divided vote, homeowners in Clayton’s Oakhurst area have approved an increase in special assessment fees to fund the local Geological Hazard Abatement District (GHAD)—a special district created to monitor, prevent, and respond to threats like landslides and soil erosion in vulnerable hillside neighborhoods.

The measure passed thanks to a weighted voting system that gave more influence to residents in high-risk zones. The final tally was 287 “no” votes and 270 “yes” votes—but once adjusted for the weighted system and converted to dollar amounts, the proposal passed with $66,161.99 in favor versus $63,391.24 opposed. The new fees will be collected starting in August 2025.

There are 1,484 homes within the GHAD boundaries, but more than half of the home-

owners did not participate in the vote. The special tax will now vary depending on a property’s risk level, ranging from $84.39 to $280.41 per year, with lower-risk areas paying less.

WHAT IS GHAD?

Originally established by the City of Clayton, the Geological Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) is a legally defined entity tasked with maintaining surface and subsurface drainage systems and addressing earth movement issues. Its primary goal is to prevent property damage and personal injury caused by geological instability, particularly in the hillside areas of Oakhurst.

The GHAD hasn’t had a significant funding boost since 2000 and currently generates just $51,000 annually—far short of what’s needed. City documents estimate the district requires an additional $360,000 per year to cover cleanup, repairs, weed abatement, hazard response, and

a capital reserve for major disasters like landslides.

DISPUTED PROCESS, DIVIDED COMMUNITY

Supporters and opponents of the measure are sharply split—not only over whether the fee increase is necessary, but whether the GHAD is even legitimate.

Some, like resident Nancy Topp, believe the GHAD acts as a “slush fund” for the City of Clayton. She’s skeptical of how oversight works and alleges the city will drain funds from the district: “There has never been enough money in the fund, and adding to it will only increase the amount Clayton will take.”

Longtime councilmember and six-time mayor Julie Pierce, who was on the council when the GHAD was created, disputes that claim unequivocally. “The money collected cannot be used for anything else in the city,” she said. “It is not being ‘drained’ to fund anything else.”

There’s confusion even among city leadership over whether Proposition 218, a California law requiring a two-thirds vote for special taxes, applies to GHAD elections. Pierce maintains that it doesn’t. If Prop 218 were applicable, the measure would not have passed under the two-thirds rule.

RESIDENTS SPEAK OUT

The vote did not break cleanly along geographic lines. While hillside homes are at greater risk and thus saw higher weighted votes, residents on both sides of the issue came from various parts of Oakhurst.

Resident Nancy Beaver, who lives in a high-risk zone, supported the measure, calling her yes vote “a no-brainer.” She cited dangerous erosion from poor drainage and believes the GHAD will now be able to properly maintain infrastructure: “The work of the district is essential for the safety and wellbeing of our community.”

On the other hand, Glenn Miller, a longtime hillside resident, voted no. “I have witnessed many years where there was simply no maintenance,” he said. He also criticized the voting system, calling it “arbitrary weighting,” and accused the district of spending money on “a bogus consultant” and an ineffective city engineer.

Vice Mayor Jeff Wan, who also chairs the GHAD board, defended the city’s process. He said the city began evaluating the GHAD’s financial state in 2022 and discovered serious funding shortfalls and deferred maintenance due to a lack of resources—not mismanagement.

“This was the real work of government,” Wan said. “It’s not flashy, but it’s the kind of underthe-radar action that can have a meaningful impact.”

LOOKING FORWARD

Despite the controversy, some residents view the fee

increase as a necessary step to protect their homes and property values.

Tony Eistetter, who lives in a more stable part of Oakhurst, voted yes because he believes the entire community is affected by hillside instability. “Most Oakhurst residents know that some areas are susceptible to earth movement,” he said. “This will help to keep our property values from declining.” Pierce, who worked on GHAD matters for years, believes the vote was long overdue. “If a natural disaster like a landslide were to happen in Oakhurst, there would not be enough money in the fund to repair it. It’s that simple.” This is the first GHAD vote to pass since the district was established. Whether it will be enough to stabilize both the land and the community’s confidence in the process remains to be seen.

PLEASANT HILL – The Assistance League of Diablo Valley started its scholarship program 25 years ago with one award worth $6,000. Fast forward to 2025, and the annual distribution has risen to more than $272,000.

This year, the group helped 68 people defray the everincreasing cost of an advanced education. The league held a celebration ceremony on May 15 at the Pleasant Hill Community Center. There are various categories of scholarships, including high school graduates going on to college, those con-

tinuing their studies in community colleges, foster/kinship, Spotlight Scholarships for students in the second, third and fourth years of college, the Lisa Park Hurst Memorial Scholarship, along with funds for individuals returning to school and those on a career technical educational path.

This year’s scholarships bring the total recipients to 700, with financial support surpassing $2.2 million since the program’s 2000 launch.

The bulk of the funds comes from profits at the league’s volunteer-run Thrift Shop Way Side Inn in Lafayette. In addition, various individuals, family trusts and corporation earmark donations for scholarships.

Area high school graduates receiving scholarships this year include:

College Park : Jamilton Choc Gamarro, Johanna Hartsman, Max Lopez, Connor Nachand, Sarah Samhan, Gema Sanchez Pereza and Milena Wendler-Luengo.

Mt. Diablo: Johana Hernandez Reyes.

CVCHS: Alex Ternate.

Concord: Jared Tumay.

De La Salle: Jose Rodriques.

Aasim Yahya, a 2018 Concord High graduate and former Pioneer student reporter, is among past reward winners –having received multiple scholarships from the Assistance League, including the Judy Oliphant Scholarship. Now

studying law at Stanford, he offered some remarks to inspire the latest group as they move forward with their academic pursuits.

Yahya acknowledged that many of the students might be feeling immense pressure to be perfect or not want to fail – as he shouldered that weight when he started at UC Berkeley. But, in sharing his own tale, he emphasized that perfection is neither a true measure of success nor a realistic path for which to ultimately achieve what they desire.

In moving his attitude from one of pressure to one of patience, Yahya spoke of finding his way forward.

“As I shifted my perspective, I invested in what I valued and, most importantly, learned to be kind to myself. I began to build wonderful relationships, memories and experiences in college –easily some of the best years of my life,” he said.

“Being kind to yourself doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your goals or program ambitions,” Yahya continued.

He pointed to recognizing and acknowledging small advancements in one’s life: Am I better today than I was yesterday? Not necessarily, am I where I want to be?

“If you are even one percent better, you are doing pretty good,” Yahya said. He closed his remarks by noting that many in the hall might also be the first in their family to go to college.

“It might be terrifying, and you may feel out of place. But as

Girls Empowerment Camp sparks fire of inspiration for young girls

CONCORD – While firefighting has long been a male-dominated profession, dozens of young women on hand for a May weekend camp may be the next generation of recruits willing to continue challenging the status quo. Held at the Contra Costa County Fire Training Center on Treat Boulevard Training Center May 17 and 18, the inaugural Girls Empowerment Camp, a joint venter of the Contra Costa Fire Foundation and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, exposed 50 participants to different aspects of a career in the profession, including searchand rescue, EMS, hose and nozzle training, FireService 101, forcible entry and ventilation.

Currently in Con Fire there are 431 total firefighters up the rank of Battalion Chief, which includes 11 females.

Firefighter Deandra Van Houten, a 10-year firefighter who took the lead in organizing the event, made it clear to her young charges that the weekend was not simply about putting on the gear and playing with fire engines.

“It’s about giving you, the youth of our community the opportunity to learn, grow and see yourself in a role that too often goes unseen by young teenagers,” she said. “It’s about breaking down barriers and showing that the fire service is not just for the strong, but the brave. Not just the tough, but the determined.”

Lilly Roberts, from Concord, who joined others in

to the growth of future firefighters through her involvement in physical fitness and EMS training programs.

“Theresa,” said Broschard, “is the consummate ideal that every fire chief would want. If I could clone her 100 times over, I would.”

The coming wildfire season is sure to test all that Watkins and her fellow firefighters will bring to the fight.

Con Fire Battalion Chief Tom Zurflueh noted the outlook is not for the fire season to be any longer. But that doesn’t mean it will be any less fraught with challenges, like increased temperatures now trending upwards.

“There is a higher probability of fires this year than in the past,” he said, citing the existence of flare up already being battled in the northern part of the state.

Wind is another factor Zurflueh acknowledged is rearing its head, which is the greatest contributor to the spread of fire. To that concern, he noted that when wind speeds reach 10 to 15 mph, topography no longer matters, they can push fire downhill as well as uphill.

Whereas down south, it’s the Santa Ana winds, locally the north winds are the Diablo.

ing, mowing the lawn or that seemingly innocent discarding of a cigarette.

ConFire Protection Captain Joe Ottolini, was pleased that the education efforts ahead of the current wildfire season is prompting “people to be more proactive.”

But there is still time to take steps that can head off potential disaster.

“We still have programs pushing residents to be more proactive in their defensive space,” he said. He offered two recommendations residents can still do to help protect their homes. One is cutting all weeds and grass down to three inches or lower, and not just in the front and back of homes, but the side yards too.

“The fine fuels and grasses are susceptible to allowing fire to travel and build up rapidly,” he said.

Ottolini advised giving extra attention to the home, as a second area of concern. He encouraged cleaning out combustible materials in gutters and from roofs, as well as making deck repairs. And, at ground level, homeowners should walk around their residences to see where stacks of wood and other waste piles are present that might serve fuel beds for fire.

using specialty tools at one of the stations to gain entry into a room, was among those up for the challenge. “I wish I had heard of this sooner,” she said with a big grin, looking over at another station where they would be using chain saws. Van Houten didn’t sugarcoat that their two-day camp was going to be anything but a walk in the park. But noted it would give them a glimpse of what it takes to become a firefighter and they would train hard under the watchful eye of her female peers and their male colleagues. Van Houten spotlighted Theresa Watkins, Clair

Watkins, Kadie Bruce, Rachel Gregory, Brittany Medina, Rachel Garrett and Makenzie Gould –who lent their time and talents for the camp.

“You’ll be challenged mentally, physically and emotionally,” she said. “You’re going to be pushed out of your comfort zone. You’ll sweat. You might struggle. And, yes, you may even doubt yourself in moments.”

In offering those words, she added that all the firefighters the campers see surrounding them on the event’s training ground has felt what they will be experiencing.

“Everyone of has had to dig deep and find strength we

didn’t know we had,” said Van Houten. “You have that same strength within you. Remember – growth lives on the other side of discomfort.”

Van Houten lauded Con Fire’s Chief Lewis Broschard for his belief in opening doors and creating space for the next generation. Broschard, in addressing the first group to take on the challenges the camp offers, hoped the hands-on activities to be experienced would “provide that spark” to pursue careers in the fire service.

“You can do this!” he extolled the young women.

So as the wildfire season gears up, he reminded everyone, especially on days when Red Flag Warnings are issues, to be mindful of the human factors that can ignite sparks – like driv-

For more information, visit the community fuel risk reduction and wildfire mitigation resources sections at www.cccfpd.org

Students, from page 2 you find yourself in these new rooms that you may never have imagined for yourself, find a way to help others get there, too,” Yahya said. Referring to what he learned from the scholarship committee about the 2025 honorees, he told them: “You are a diverse, intelligent and driven group of recipients. And despite what others might say, your diversity is not a disadvantage, your intelligence is not insignificant and your thoughtfulness is certainly not trivial. “Please go forward with kindness,” Yahya added.

David Scholz

Local young women, working in teams, learned how

forcible entry in one of six stations organized for the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District andContra Costa

ICE arrests outside Concord court spark protest

Agency’s strategy seen as the latest intimidation tactic

blocking federal vehicles as they attempted to remove the detainees from the area.

COURTROOM APPEARANCES

BECOME A TRAP

The early June escalation of ICE arrest activity in California included more arrests and sparked a protest outside the Concord Immigration Courts, as the Trump Administration’s deportation efforts continued to ratchet up.

The latest arrests followed a pre-Memorial Day weekend arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, which put advocates on alert for what was expected to be an increasingly common occurrence.

Ultimately, ICE agents made four arrests of immigrants on June 10, during which time hundreds of protestors descended on the Gateway Boulevard site, yelling and pushing agents and

The arrests of individuals making scheduled appearances for their cases in the Concord court follow a trend occurring in other parts of the country, where an ICE attorney is seeking to dismiss removal proceedings of an individual. Sometimes the court grants the request, and other times not. Either way, the person appearing before the court is subsequently detained by ICE agents, who are waiting nearby—maybe in the hall outside the courtroom, or on the sidewalk outside the building— just waiting to put on the handcuffs.

An ICE spokesman, in a statement issued Wed., June 11, noted the actions by ICE agents are in accordance with interim guidelines issued back on Jan.

21. These guidelines permit ICE officers to conduct civil immigration enforcement actions in or near courthouses when they have credible information that leads them to believe the targeted alien(s) is or will be present at a specific location dedicated to non-criminal proceedings, like family court and small claims court.

ARRESTS TARGET NEWERARRIVALS

The targets of these latest arrests are individuals who have been in the U.S. for two years or less, according to Abigail L’Esperance, co-director of the Immigration Unit at the East Bay Community Law Center.

Heliodoro Moreno, an attorney with the Contra Costa County Public Defender’s Office, sourced in multiple media outlets, acknowledged that ICE agents have been showing up in Concord weekly over the past several weeks to

make such arrests.

Moreno noted these individuals were reportedly at least being processed through ICE’s San Francisco facilities. But from there, L’Esperance suggested their whereabouts were not known, as the individuals could have been taken to any one of several different detention facilities elsewhere in California or around the country.

CHILLINGEFFECT ON IMMIGRANTPARTICIPATION

In a prepared statement, the Department of Homeland Security advised local media outlets that, “Secretary (Kristi) Noem is reversing (President Joe) Biden’s catch and release policy that allowed millions of unvetted illegal aliens to be let loose on American streets.”

“If they have a valid credible fear claim, they will continue in immigration proceedings, but if no valid claim is found, aliens will be subject to a swift depor-

tation,” a senior DHS spokesperson added.

L’Esperance was not surprised by ICE’s targeted enforcement at immigration courts, noting it “keeps it quiet and targeted to the immigration community,” and the enforcement arm is “more fully hidden.”

But with the most recent reaction by protestors, ICE activities are being more heavily scrutinized—and the arrests are anything but quiet.

The concern now with this latest tactic by ICE, which L’Esperance regarded as just a new form of intimidation, is that it will scare immigrants away from showing up for their scheduled immigration hearings. And, as a result, when the person fails to show, judges have no alternative but to order deportation.

“It’s an almost automatic win for ICE,” she said.

Where ICE attorneys do successfully get cases dismissed, ICE agents have the prerogative to subsequently detain those immigrants, and an expedited removal process is set in motion to deport the individual from the country.

“The expedited removal proceedings strip them of their due process, and ICE becomes prosecutor, judge, and jury,” said L’Esperance. “There are fewer safeguards, and they do not require a hearing before an immigration judge.

“Immigrants have little due process because of the speed that this happens,” she added.

For those individuals who do appear for their cases and are detained, their cases proceed in courts within the detention facilities where they are taken. However, L’Esperance noted there are now new barriers created for these individuals to adequately argue their cases. Either they cannot access the necessary documents, and/or they are not able to communicate with their legal counsel.

Many local Republicans aren’t loud, and urge moderation

Editor’s Note: In April we ran a story about Democrat activism titled, “From pages to protests – how a local book club turned to political activism.” Conversely, we promised to present an opposing point of view –the Conservative side.

Jack Weir said he feels like an island, and in a way, he is. As a conservative, the former Pleasant Hill City Councilmember calls himself a red dot in an ocean of blue. He is a Libertarian and associated with the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association.

Yet he recognizes that central Contra Costa County is a land of Democrats.

In an area that was swept by Democrats in the 2024 legislative and Congressional races, numbers don’t lie. Overall, Contra Costa County has a Democratic registration advantage, with 48.5% registered Democrats compared to 19.4% Republicans and 27.7% identifying with No Party Preference.

Roughly the same percentages trickles down to the city level, too, and other registered voters are Independent or in smaller parties. Still, the Republican party is strong, especially in areas like Rossmoor, with the

Rossmoor Republican Club and Lamorinda, with organizations like the Rossmoor Republican Women’s Club. And party leaders say that it is an uphill battle to be loud and proud in the area. They don’t have to. They own Washington, D.C. right now.

“We are here,” said Concord’s Sonia Ledo, who ran unsuccessfully against Anamarie Avila Farias for California’s 15th Assembly District seat last year. “We may be outnumbered almost twoto-one, but we’re here.”

She points to the strong Republican clubs in Rossmoor, Lamorinda, Clayton and Concord.

“We’re not as loud on

y y if the kitchen, the formal dining s. The primary suite provides a nd a luxurious ensuite bathroom tside, your private oasis awaits. xpansive backyard. fuul propert yoours?

ompass.com to discover if this rs available by appointment.

social media as liberal groups,” she said of the more eastern cities. “It’s hard being in a deep blue county.”

The Pioneer attempted to reach the county republican

party leadership for comment, but have not received a response by press time. Ledo herself, was a Trump supporter, and approves of his agenda and

councilmembers could request agenda items in public meetings, but a new rule now requires written requests to both the mayor and manager – eliminating verbal requests and consolidating power with the mayor to approve or deny them.

Additionally, the agenda requests list is updated quarterly, limiting public awareness.

Compounding the issue, a so-called “Agenda Setting Committee,” – an unofficial body made up of the mayor, vice mayor, city manager, city attorney and city clerk – controlled what did and didn’t make it onto the agenda until January 2025, when the practice was quietly scaled back.

show the city’s structural deficit could grow to more than $1 million by 2028. Calling it “fiscally unsound,” the Grand Jury pointed to the council’s strategy of relying on its $6 million reserve – while simultaneously voting to reduce it.

COMMITTEES GONEROGUE

The Grand Jury found that many council committees – including ad hoc and Brown Act-governed bodies – operated outside the bounds of both law and policy. A key example was the Clayton Business & Community Association (CBCA) Negotiation Committee,

See Republican, pg 5

• Create a new, fair process for councilmembers to request agenda items.

• Maintain a public list of all agenda item requests and their status.

• Require committees to post meeting minutes online.

• Ensure that public comment on non-agenda items is available at all regular meetings.

• Enforce council rules that prevent committees from taking unauthorized actions.

• Investigate the reasons behind high staff turnover.

• Explore revenue-generating measures to address the structural deficit.

• Follow established rules when appointing members to financial oversight committees.

UNADDRESSED FINANCIALCRISIS

Since 2021, the city has operated at a deficit, using reserve funds to stay afloat. Finance experts and successive managers warned that the city needed to consider new revenue sources, such as a sales or parcel tax. But despite forming a Citizens Financial Sustainability Committee in 2022 to study the issue, the city hasn’t taken any meaningful action.

That committee itself became an example of the dysfunction: The initial members lacked the required qualifications in government finance, meetings were sporadic and lacked transparency, and minutes were not posted. In April 2025, the committee reported being confused about its purpose and frustrated by the city’s failure to provide necessary information. Meanwhile, projections

which acted without council approval to reject a community group’s offer – something it was not legally authorized to do.

In 2024, 48% of all committee meetings were held as special meetings, which require only 24 hours’ notice and don’t need to allow public comment on non-agenda items. Of the 25 Brown Act committee meetings held that year, only six allowed such comment, and just two of them posted minutes online. These practices, the Jury concluded, deliberately restricted public participation and transparency.

JURY’SRECOMMENDATIONS

The Grand Jury offered eight specific recommendations to be implemented by Dec. 1, 2025, with one revenue-related item due by July 1, 2026:

ADHOC COMMITTEE TO REVIEW Since the release of the report, the council has remained silent in public. The agenda for the meeting on June 17 includes the formation of an ad hoc committee tasked with reviewing the Grand Jury’s findings and preparing a response. As this meeting occurred after press time, the names of the council members appointed to the committee are not available for this story. While Councilmember Jeff Wan has shared his own lenthy critique of the report on his Facebook page, it does not carry official weight. In the meantime, residents of Clayton find themselves with more questions than answers, along with a pressing reminder from the Grand Jury that the need for change is urgent.

“Big Beautiful Bill.” “It will help things like medical spending waste,” she said. “We don’t want Califor-

The Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury's recent report reveals systemic dysfunction within the Clayton City Council, citing 12 city managers in five years, legal violations, and a lack of transparency in decision-making. These issues have eroded public trust and hindered effective governance amidst growing financial challenges.

Grand Jury, from page 1

HOLLY TILLMAN

KIM TRUPIANO JEF WAN JIM DIAZ RICH ENEA

MARY KNOX DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY

Words have consequences.

Last month, a car was backed through the front doors of the CVS in Lafayette to steal the ATM. Multiple cars fled the scene as law enforcement arrived and they were pursued

Pulling back the curtain: A look at the district attorney’s failure to implement Proposition 36

to the Caldecott Tunnel into Alameda County.

A dangerous high-speed pursuit of a wanted car through the streets of Lafayette resulted in the arrest of a man from San Francisco. Later that week, customers and employees in a consignment store were peppersprayed, and the robbers fled with $20,000 in stolen merchandise toward the Caldecott Tunnel.

What has caused this troubling trend of criminals from Alameda County and San Francisco coming into Contra Costa to commit crimes?

The progressive district attorneys in San Francisco and

Alameda Counties have been recalled by the voters and replaced by district attorneys who publicly prioritize the enforcement of our laws while progressive Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton has publicly opposed, and failed to enforce, the laws created by the clear mandate of the voters to restore public safety.

With impressive unity toward our shared goal of increasing public safety and reducing crime, 70% of Contra Costa voters passed Proposition 36 and restored felony accountability for theft and drug crimes. In stark contrast to the will

How to stay independent without risking safety

Other subtle risks include:

• Forgetting medications or taking the wrong dose

For many older adults, independence is more than just a preference, it’s a point of pride. The ability to live in your own home, on your own terms, brings a sense of control, comfort and identity. But as we age, the daily routines we’ve mastered for decades can become unexpectedly risky.

The truth is, staying independent doesn’t have to mean doing everything alone. In fact, trying to manage all tasks without support can lead to accidents, health setbacks and long-term loss of autonomy.

That’s why more and more seniors are turning to in-home caregivers to stay safe, while still staying in charge of their lives.

THE HIDDEN RISKS OF “MANAGINGON YOUR OWN”

You may not think twice about climbing a step stool to reach the top shelf or carrying laundry down a few stairs, but these everyday tasks are some of the leading causes of falls and injuries among older adults.

• Skipping meals due to fatigue or difficulty cooking

• Driving when eyesight or reaction time has changed

• Neglecting home safety, such as loose rugs or dim lighting

These may seem like small concerns, but they add up. A single fall, a missing pill or a mild case of dehydration can quickly become a trip to the ER, and that can change everything.

INDEPENDENCE LOOKS DIFFERENTWITHTHE RIGHT SUPPORT

Hiring a caregiver isn’t about giving up freedom. In many ways, it’s about protecting it. The right caregiver can help with tasks that have become physically demanding or unsafe, allowing you to continue enjoying life on your own terms.

Caregivers can assist with:

• Meal prep and hydration to support nutrition

• Medication reminders to reduce hospital visits

• Help with mobility, transfers or bathing

Republican, from page 4

nia’s money spent on certain groups of people who aren’t paying taxes.”

Ledo is more focused on how the Republican agenda in Washington affects California, specifically the Congressional action that overturned the state’s ban on gas vehicles.

“That was a smart move by Congress,” she said. However, both Ledo and Weir agree that probably members of both major political parties would like to do one thing: move closer to center and agree more. And if there are disagreements, debate them in a respectful manner.

“It’s not like it used to be,” Weir said, who counts among his friends former Republican Congressman Bill Baker, adding now there is too much negativity, even within the major parties.

“There are moderates and independent thinkers within both parties,” Ledo said of the Republicans and Democrats, saying she hates the

“lockstep” voting that happens in both the State Legislature and U.S. Congress.

“I am concerned with Democrats running both California’s assembly and the state senate,” she said. “They don’t work for the people; they only do what their leaders tell them.”

She points to AB59, recently passed in California, that took away felony status from underage sex traffickers. The bill passed mainly along party lines, and even Gov. Newsom spoke out against it, Ledo said. She even thinks that the county’s blue status has made it soft on crime.

“I’m afraid to go out at night in Concord anymore,” she said. “I grew up in San Francisco and that’s why I left it, for this nice suburb.”

She is also in opposition to the City of Concord’s rent control ordinance. “I ended up selling my rental,” she said. “It just wasn’t worth it.”

There are some small vic-

The Pioneer is delivered free to homes in Concord and Clayton and depends solely on advertising for revenue. Remember this the next time you are shopping for goods or services and support our advertisers.

of Contra Costa voters, Becton publicly opposed Proposition 36 with her name appearing at the top of the opposition published in the state’s official voter information guide.

What has been the actual impact of the passage of Proposition 36 in Contra Costa County?

Proposition 36 passed in Contra Costa by one of the highest percentage rates in the state, yet a judicial council state-wide analysis of the post-Proposition 36 filing of felony theft and drug charges found that Contra Costa ranked one of the lowest in the state. It was 55th out of

the 58 counties in the state, filing just 16% of the statewide felony drug cases. Contrary to the will of the voters, it appears Becton’s public opposition of Proposition 36 has carried over into her implementation in Contra Costa County. Last week, an SUV was backed through a

Concord causing over $20,000 in damage. This was the sixth time in 18 months the store was targeted by thieves. This lawlessness must end. It is time Becton is held accountable and required to do the job she was elected to do – enforce our laws.

Transportation to errands, appointments or social visits

Home safety checks to prevent falls and hazards

• Companionship to ease isolation and m

With this kind of support, seniors can stay in their homes longer, reduce emergency room visits and maintain their daily routines with peace of mind.

YOU’RESTILLINCONTROL

Accepting help doesn’t mean giving up independence – it means you’re choosing to live safely, confidently and with dignity. By planning and welcoming a little support, you’re doing something truly empowering – you’re ensuring your version of independence lasts as long as possible.

Presented by Home Helpers of Concord, CA – Helping seniors live independently with the support they need and the dignity they deserve. Please call 925.338.8033 or you can visit their website at homehelpershomecare.com for more information.

tories for the red minority in the area, especially the Contra Costa Taxpayer’s Association, which is made up of a majority of Republicans. It strongly opposed Acalanes School District’s Measure T campaign, a parcel tax for the Lamorinda-area schools.

Despite the proponents of the affluent area spending thousands of dollars to pass the tax, it failed to meet the two-thirds majority to win.

“The election was a mailin special election that cost the county $1 million,” said Marc Joffe, county chair of the association. “It was a $130 annual tax. To me, that’s not fiscally smart at all.”

Joffe, like Weir, is a Libertarian and voted for Libertarian candidate Chase Oliver over Trump. He said he has “mixed feelings” about the president’s agenda.

“We don’t like the tariffs,” he said. “Libertarians support free trade, and we don’t like the immigration policies, because the country needs immigrants for certain jobs.

What he does approve of is tax cuts and DOGE. He scoffs at the liberal’s protests of Tesla in downtown Walnut Creek.

“I’ve never seen so many intelligent people take a knee-jerk reaction to an issue,” he said of Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk’s DOGE cuts. “We need fiscal responsibility.”

From the desk of...

Finding familiar faces at Rick Judd grand opening

I recently attended the grand opening, ribbon-cutting celebration of Rick Judd Commons, a 62-unit, 100% affordable housing development, located at 1315 Galindo St.

The project includes one, two and three-bedroom units, rented to households earning between 30 – 60% of the area median income, or $32,700 to $65,400 annually.

I was proud to attend, since it was six years ago when I was serving as Mayor of Concord for the first time, that the city council allocated $7.8 million to this project. My Council colleagues and I carefully weighed spending more than half of the City of Concord’s $14 million one-

For the first time, the City of Clayton adopted a two-year budget following several Budget & Audit Committee meetings, a community workshop and a final presentation to the City Council on June 3. The budget passed unanimously (5-0), a milestone not reached in years.

time affordable housing funds on this one project. Allocated for resources for community development, project developer and operator, this city investment was an important demonstration of project viability to the

county, state, federal and private financing partners – from whom they cobbled together additional construction and operation funds.

Fast forward to 2023. I was touring the Concord Homeless Shelter to see the renovations funded by the state’s Homeless Emergency Aid Program. The shelter was reoriented into a much safer site, featuring cubicles that contained a bed, desk, USB port for device-charging, drawers for storage and a door for privacy. Non-aggressive companion pets were welcome.

While greeting some of the residents, I met Alicia, who proudly showed me her decorated cubicle and confi-

dently shared how she was working diligently with her case manager on her permanent housing plan.

One more trip in the time machine to June 4, where a resident was announced as the last speaker before the Rick Judd Commons ribbon-cutting ceremony. Imagine my surprise and delight when the speaker was none other than Alicia herself, who shared her appreciation for a new apartment so close to Todos Santos Plaza, where she has fond memories of walking with her grandchildren.

As I looked around, I saw more familiar faces among the new Rick Judd Commons residents.

While the project did pres-

BUDGETOVERVIEW

In year one, the initial projected deficit was $129,000. After rigorous review, this was reduced to approximately $82,000 by the end of the council meeting. Cost-saving decisions included holding the line on the Senior Planner salary range and passing credit card processing fees to users. If anticipated CPI-related revenue increases materialize, the deficit may fall to around $60,000. Year two’s larger projected deficit of $725,000 is primarily due to the scheduled dissolution of the Successor

Agency for redevelopment. With all obligations fulfilled, its operations will cease next fiscal year, phasing out $510,459 in associated revenues and expenditures. The remaining $210,000 shortfall stems from anticipated increases in salaries, services and supplies.

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN (CIP)

The city engineer presented the five-year CIP through 2028–2029, emphasizing road paving, sidewalk and ADA repairs. The next major paving project is slated for 2026.

WORKFORCE UPDATES

In a public hearing required by AB 2561, we shared progress on staffing. Seven of eight vacancies have been filled in the past four months, including hiring new Police Chief Jeremy Crone, who was sworn in on June 17 and began work June 23. Welcome Chief Crone. Read the press release here: https://claytonca.gov/2025/0 6/10/introducing-our-incoming-police-chief-jeremycrone/.

GHAD ASSESSMENT VOTE

The Geological Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) board, comprised of the City Council, received 565 ballots (38.1% return) from Oakhurst property owners. The proposed assessment increase passed with 51.1% support. This secures funding for longoverdue maintenance, repairs and monitoring, and allows reserve-building for future emergencies. Special thanks to

GRAND JURY REPORT

While I disagree with many findings in the recent Civil Grand Jury report, I recognize that improvement is always possible and remain committed to transparency and progress. The city and council will issue a formal response to the report later this month.

INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Work is underway in the library parking lot as part of the final phase of our Climatec sustainability project. This includes installing solar panels at the maintenance yard and an EV charging station at the library. Completion is expected by the end of summer, with a project update scheduled for our August 17 meeting.

COMMUNITYEVENTS

Concerts in the Grove: Every other Saturday, 6–8 p.m. Next concert is June 28. https://claytonca.gov/ourcity/annual-events/concertsin-the-grove/ Classic Car Show: Every other Wednesday starting June 18 through July 30, 6–8 p.m., downtown. https://claytonca.gov/our-city/annualevents/classic-car-show/. 4th of July Parade: Friday, July 4, 10 a.m. https://claytonca.gov/our-city/annualevents/4th-of-july-parade/.

Finally, thank you to VFW Post 1525 and the USMC for a memorable and well-attended Memorial Day Ceremony at The Grove Park.

Contact Kim Trupiano at kimt@claytonca.gov or 925-6737324.

ent some design challenges, and averaged $1 million a door to develop, seeing formerly unsheltered Concord residents find permanent supportive housing and workforce training – brought me full circle as to the wisdom of the council’s affordable hous-

ing funding investment decision six years ago. Learn more about Rick Judd Commons at https://rcdhousing.org/rickjudd-commons/.

Contact Mayor Obringer at carlyn.obringer@cityofconcord.org

Contra Costa County is piloting a Services and Access for Everyone (SAFE) Center with a one-time $5 million investment. The SAFE center will be a new community hub designed to connect immigrant individuals and families with resources, support and opportunities.

Contra Costa County is home to more than 300,000 foreign-born residents –over one-fourth of the county’s population. They are teachers, nurses, artists, students, entrepreneurs and essential workers who contribute more than $16.8 billion to our local economy.

But beyond the numbers, these individuals represent the diverse vibrancy of our community, and they deserve dignity, support and a sense of belonging.

As federal support for immigrants and refugees continues to erode, local leaders must step-up.

Building safe, inclusive communities has always been central to my public service. As a police officer, I worked daily to protect residents. On the Pleasant Hill City Council, I championed the Inclusive City Resolution to ensure everyone felt welcome – regardless of ethnicity, gender or sexuality.

Now, as a county supervisor, I continue my work to make our community safe and welcoming for all residents in Contra Costa County.

I am honored to have secured funding to establish the SAFE Center.This initiative is the result of months of collaboration

with county staff, nonprofit partners and community leaders – including Ali Saidi of Stand Together Contra Costa and Susun Kim of the Family Justice Center. Together, we identified a vision rooted in lived experience, community voice and cross-sector partnerships.

Following the proven model of the Family Justice Center, whose long-term sustainability has relied on philanthropic donations following initial funding from the County, the SAFE Center will need the support of our community.

The initial hub will be in Concord, with planned services to include a mobile component to meet needs across our county. The Center will bring together community partners with a focus on education resources, economic opportunities, financial and safetynet services, healthcare, legal aid, social connections, cultural celebrations and civic engagement.

This pilot program is funded through a combination of $1.5 million from Fiscal Year 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 budgets, redirected from the Employment and Human Services Department’s Measure X allocations, and $3.5 million from the County’s COVID-19 FEMA Reserves.

I thank my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors for their support in approving this one-time allocation.

Contra Costa County thrives because of our diversity, and it is essential that we support all residents to thrive.

At its core, the SAFE Center is dedicated to creating a space where individuals and families can feel seen, supported and valued. To learn more about the SAFE Center, please visithttps://tinyurl.com/SA FECenterCoCo.

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

Vice Mayor Jeff Wan for championing GHAD efforts.

KEN CARLSON COUNTY SUPERVISOR

P.O. Box 1246 Clayton, CA 94517

TAMARAAND R OBERT S TEINER Publishers

TAMARA S TEINER Editor

P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design, Website, Social Media

B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor, Calendar Editor

J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports Editor, Schools Editor

S TAFF W RITERS : Jay Bedecarré

C ORRESPONDENTS : Bev Britton, Charleen Earley, Dawnmarie Fehr, Vince Martellacci, Kara Navolio, David Scholz

PIONEER INFO

Tel: (925) 672-0500

Tamara Steiner

editor@pioneerpublishers.com (925) 285-8612

Send Ads to ads@pioneerpublishers.com

Send Sports News to sports@pioneerpublishers.com

Send Calendar Items to calendar@pioneerpublishers.com

The Pioneer is a monthly publication delivered free to homes and businesses in 94517, 94518, 94519 and 94521. ZIP code 94520 is currently served by drop site distribution. The papers are published by Clayton Pioneer, Inc., Tamara and Robert Steiner, PO 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. The offices are located at 4701 Morgan Territory Road, Clayton, 94517

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date.

Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to tamara@pioneerpublishers.com. Letters must be submitted via E-mail.

CIRCULATION

The Pioneer is delivered monthly by the third Friday to 38,500 single-family homes and businesses in 94518, 94519 and 94521. Papers to Clayton are delivered by US mail. Concord zip codes are delivered by commercial carriers for ABC Direct. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 . Effective with the June 5, 2020 issue, delivery to homes will rotate between zones. Residents in our delivery area (check website for map),will receive free delivery EVERY OTHER MONTH.

ADVERTISING

Advertising rates and circulation maps are posted at www.pioneerpublishers.com or call (925) 672-0500.

Obituaries

Gary Gene LaBoeuf

August 14, 1950 – May 21, 2025

Gary Gene LaBoeuf died peacefully in his Oceanside home, surrounded by his family on Wednesday, May 21. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, coach, painter, artist, cook, contractor, mentor, sponsor, sponsee and loyal friend.

Born on August 14, 1950, in Sandpoint, Idaho, he moved from Idaho at age seven to Richmond, CA and later, with his five brothers, to Martinez, which would be his home for over 40 years.

Blanca was born in Glendale, Ariz. She pursued her education in a nursing program at Merritt College in Oakland and passed the exam on July 13, 1988, with a score of 1,726 – the required passing grade is 1,600.

Blanca had a love to serve and make a difference in people’s lives. She worked at Alta Bates in Oakland and retired from John Muir Hospital in

Gary Gene moved to San Diego at the age of 50, where he courageously began another successful business as a general contractor, remodeling homes. He was funny, generous, sensitive, creative and intelligent. His love prevails.

A celebration will be on Sunday, June 29, at Nancy Boyd Park in Martinez, CA at 11 a.m. Bring a chair and a side dish or dessert. Out of respect for Gary Gene’s sobriety, no alcoholic beverages.

Blanca Estela Lee

January 13, 1957-May 15, 2025

labor and delivery in 2019. Other accolades included childbirth education in English/Spanish, grief counseling in English/Spanish and hospital tours.

Blanca and her husband Bill have lived in Clayton since 2008, and they enjoyed what this small jewel of a town had to offer. She loved walking on the many trails with Bill, family and friends and dancing at the Concerts in the Grove, all the festivals and the 4th of July.

Blanca attended the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when she was 11 years old in Laredo, Texas, where she was baptized and gained a strong testimony of God and Jesus Christ. In her last days with us, she served two church callings:

July 4, from page 1

Food and Entertainment

City of Clayton Grove Concert

City of Concord Music & Market

Funeral Homes

Oakmont Memorial Park & Mortuary

.cityofclaytonca.gov

.cityofconcord.org

.281-0142

.682-4242

Ouimet

Health

Montijo, Mark

Trio Skincare

Home and Garden

Carrasco Construction

Interiors Panache

Safe at Home

Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service

Whit’s Painting

Real Estate, Housing and Mortgage Services

Donovan, Heather – Compass

Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker

McDougall, Kelly, Compass

Moore, Wendy – Christie's

Rath, Lilli – Compass

Sinclair, Christine Dudum

.775-9981

.609-8746

.446.7489

.672-7920

.318-1440

.348-5609

.429-2669

.765-3822

.212-5593

.787-0448

.570-5187

286.4118

.286-7539

Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . .567-6170

Senior Services & Hospice Care

Carlton Concord

The alcohol free event will include a bag check upon entry by security. Also, no dogs are allowed nor is smoking permitted. The public is advised that the gates to MDHS do not open early to save spots on the grass.

The free festivities will feature live music on stage, a kids’ carnival, food and vendor booths, and local artist exhibits. Live entertainment on stage will begin at 5:30 PM by local favorite Brooks Lundy, leading up to a special performance by The 925 Band at 7:30 PM.

Finally, at 9:15 PM, the day will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display.

PLEASANT HILL

The Firecracker 5K kicks off the community’s day along schedule at 7:45 a.m. for a spirited race through the town that will conclude by 9:30 a.m. Dogs and strollers are allowed. For the pint-sized runners (7 years and younger), they can show off their speed and agility in the free 100-yard dash. Prizes await the top finishers of both races.

Next up is the community’s annual parade that will wind through the downtown corridor beginning at 9:30 a.m.

After the parade ends at 10:30 a.m, walk over to Pleasant Hill Park for live music, food, and fun for the kids. The Party in the Park begins at noon with Boy Scout Troop 282 providing the Flag Detail and Pleasant Hill resident Alejandra Quezada Sermeno singing the National Anthem, followed at 12:15 p.m. with a watermelon eating contest.

The fun continues til 1:30 p.m. with music by Inner-State 80’s, BBQ from Back 40 Texas BBQ, Kettle Corn, Shaves Ice, kids games, and inflatables.

The day’s festivities wrap up fireworks set to light up the evening skies at 8:45 p.m. at College Park High School. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. with music, food, and dessert trucks on site. Access is $4 per person (suggested donation). Dogs are not allowed for the fireworks. So grab a blanket and your loved ones and enjoy the show.

Note that Viking Drive will be closed to traffic between

Norse Drive and Ruth Drive prior to and after the fireworks display

For parking, the North Parking Lot along Golf Club Rd at DVC, Parking lot at Valley View

temple ordinance worker and medical advisor for the California/San Francisco Mission.

Blanca learned to play the ukulele and volunteered her time at the Food Basket in the Volcano, Hawaii, Community Center. She also played lots of pickleball while living on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Blanca and Bill married in 2008 and spent 17 years making memories. She is survived by her four children, John Fetokai of Utah, Ana Gonzalez of Concord, Foeata and husband Keoki Baclayon of Oahu, and Gabriel Fetokai and wife Melissa of Chandler, Ariz.; and grandchildren, Melanie Fetokai, Losehina Fetokai, Sisilia Fetokai, Keala Baclayon, Ana Baclayon, La’akea Baclayon, Paenoa Baclayon, Brenda

Middle School, PH Community Center Parking Lot are recommended for those driving into the area.

CLAYTON

A pancake breakfast by the Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotary at the Endeavor Hall, $10

Gonzalez, Dakota Fetokai and Naome Fetokai.

Blanca has five brothers, Jose Gonsales and his wife Brook of San Diego; Israel Gonsales of Mexico; Aurelio Garcia and Freddy Garcia, who both live in Michigan; and Ramon Garcia of Mercedes, Texas. Her mother, Marcelina Espinoza, lives in Chula Vista. Her father, Simon Garcia, has passed.

Blanca was beloved by all who knew her and saw that wonderful smile she always shared. She was cherished by husband Bill, family and friends.

A funeral service was held Friday, June 13, at the Clayton Valley Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Concord.

for adults, and $8 for children 12 years and younger, kick off the day’s festivities. Then the Clayton 4th of July Parade begins at 10 a.m., proceeding along Oak Street. The parade’s theme is “Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Future.”

Blanca Estela Lee of Clayton is now dancing with the stars in heaven.

One simple mortgage tip that could save

If you’re a homeowner, you probably have a lot on your plate and your mortgage might just feel like another monthly bill to check off the list. But there’s a surprisingly easy strategy that can dramatically reduce how much you pay over time – and even help you pay off your loan years earlier.

It doesn’t involve refinanc-

ing, rate shopping or major lifestyle changes. It’s as simple as making one extra mortgage payment per year.

Let’s look at an example that many homeowners in our area can relate to:

Say you have a $700,000 mortgage with a 7% interest rate on a 30-year fixed loan. Your monthly principal and interest payment would be about $4,657.

If you make the standard 12 payments each year, you’ll stay on track to pay off your mortgage in 30 years –after paying over $976,000 in interest alone over that time.

But if you simply make one extra payment of $4,657 each year, you could:

• Pay off your mortgage 4–5 years earlier

• Save over $200,000 in interest

That’s a huge win for such a small change – and it doesn’t require large upfront costs or big changes to your monthly lifestyle. So how can you make this strategy work for you?

Here are three simple methods homeowners use: Divide and conquer: Take your monthly mortgage payment and divide it by 12. In this case, $4,657 ÷ 12 is about $388. By adding $388 to each monthly payment, you’ll effectively make one extra payment each year – without feeling the impact all at once.

• Switch to bi-weekly payments: Instead of one monthly payment, pay half your mortgage every two weeks. This results in 26 half-payments – or 13 full payments – each year.

Many lenders will allow you to set this up automatically. But usually for a small fee.

• Use a lump sum: Set aside a chunk of your tax refund, work bonus or annual raise and make one extra mortgage payment each year when it’s convenient.

This approach works best when you start early in your mortgage term, but it’s never too late to start. And if you’re also thinking about refinancing or considering a move,

SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

June 20, 2025

High schools honor athletes of the year

Local high schools honored their athletes of the year, recognizing students who had excelled in their chosen sports during the 2024-25 school year.

Carondelet

Cougar Co-Athlete of the Year Josie Haast, Water Polo

Cougar Co-Athlete of the Year Layla Dixon, Basketball

Clayton Valley Charter

Female Athlete of the

De la Salle, from page 1

onship team was one half away from also winning a NorCal championship earlier this year.

These two recent championships add to the mindnumbing historic figures for DLS teams with 292 league titles, 200 NCSchampionships, 22 Northern California championships, 25CIF State championships and six national titles.

Golf and baseball each claimed their third NorCal title in the past four years that were two of the seven NCS championship banners won by 2024-25 Spartan teams. Swimming and diving, track and field, basketball, water polo and football were also Section titlists this school year.

De La Salle golf is the Northern California high school champion for the

years after senior Josh Kim had four birdies and an eagle to help

BASEBALLHEROICS

The Spartans romped through the North Coast Section baseball playoffs scoring double digit runs in all four games including an 11-2 victo-

ry over College Park in the finals. Outscoring its foes 48-8, DLS took out some frustration from losing last year’s NCS championship game 1-0 to league foe Granada in a classic

game that took two days to complete. It is the only time the Spartans failed to win the Section championships since 2015.

Both DLS and College Park

moved on to the Division I NorCal tournament. The Falcons were eliminated in extra innings by Serra while De La Salle defeated Del Oro and St. Mary’s-Stockton to reach the finals.

After grabbing a 2-0 lead, the Spartans fell behind Serra 4-2 in the seventh inning of the championship game. It could have been a larger deficit but centerfielder Nico Baumgartner, who is headed to Fresno State this fall to play football, threw out a Padre runner at home plate in the top of the seventh.

RBI doubles by East Bay Athletic League player of the year Tyler Spangler and Antonio Castro tied the score before Baumgartner beat out an infield single that plated Castro with the winning run.

Coach David Jeans’ teams used similar heroics to win 2022 and 2023 NorCal titles in the final inning as well.

GOLF

SECONDFIDDLE

UCLA-bound Josh Kim led DLS to its third Northern California championship in four years and eighth overall at the Berkeley County Club in El Cerrito in late May. The senior had four birdies and an eagle on the 16th hole as the Spartans edged last year’s champions Stevenson by two strokes. Co-medalist Kim was denied a second straight individual NorCal title when he lost a playoff to Will Chang. Kim was under par all four years at the NorCal Regional championship. He tied for eighth as a freshman and was third his sophomore year, both times for championship DLS teams.

The Spartans won state golf titles in 2006, 2022 and 2023. They were third this year as Stevenson won its second state title.

735 Bloching Circle

Beautifully Upgraded Regency Woods Single-Story with detached office/exercise studio or pool house/cabana

This stunning single-story home in sought-after Regency Woods has been thoughtfully upgraded throughout. Flexible layout includes three bedrooms plus a spacious office—or use it as a fourth bedroom. The separate building is ideal for guests, a private office, or multi-generational living. Enjoy the sparkling pool and spa, built-in outdoor kitchen, lush gardens, and grassy play areas. All just steps from scenic walking trails, top-rated schools, restaurants, and shopping.

Absolutely breathtaking views from the expansive flat backyard of the Bridges golf course, clubhouse and beyond. 4 bdrms, 2.5 bths. Primary is on the main level with french doors that open to the backyard. Home is filled with light with its voluminous ceilings, kitchen with white cabinets, granite counters, SS appliance all open to the family room.

Offered at $2,099,000 416 Ustilago Court

1480 Santorini Street

Elegant Evia Model in Gated 55+ Barcelona Community

A wonderful newer duet home in an active 55+ community in Brentwood. This home sparkles! Light tile wood looking floors, beautiful kitchen with a huge island with informal seating for 6. 2 bedroom suites. 2 bths. Patio with a small yard. Solar.Community pool, park, clubhouse. Gated Offered at $615,000

1200 Canyonwood Court

Charming Sonoma Model in Rossmoor – Lower Unit

Beautiful Sonoma model in Gated active 55+ community of Rossmoor. 2 bds, 1 bth new paint & carpets. in unit washer/dryer. Take in the views while relaxing on the balcony. Community pool, golf course, tennis and more. Offered at $365,000

Courtesy De La Salle Athletics

third time in four

the Spartan edge de-

Athlete Spotlight

Keirabella Brown

School: Concord High

Grade: Freshman

Sports: Track, Flag Football, and Wrestling

Just a freshman at Concord High School, Brown made quite the impression at her new school. She competed during this just completed school year in varsity girls flag football in the fall, in varsity wrestling and qualified for North Coast Section meet last winter and finished up the year on the Bears track and field team this spring. During the winter season Brown won the Diablo Athletic League wrestling championship at 147 pounds and qualified the frosh sensation for the NCS meet, where she finished fifth nearly qualifying for state.

Retiring CHS cross country and track coach Lanette Stanziano says, “In track and field she has been truly amazing. She is the Concord MVP for scoring the most points this season and she qualified for DAL championships in four events (she would have qualified for two other events as well, but the limit on entries is four).” Brown not only got personal records in all those events, but she also placed in every event at the DAL championships, earning a medal in each and qualifying for NCS Tri-Valley in all four events. At DAL she placed third in 100H, fourth in the triple Jump, sixth in the high jump and fifth in 300H. With three years ahead

of her, Brown already places on the Concord alltime Top 20 List in the 110H (second all time), 300H (fourth), triple jump (tied for eighth) and high jump (tied for seventh). Stanziano adds that Brown “is positive and hardworking and never complains or gives up. Her drive to be better is incredible.” Illustrating that, Brown fell in her first event (100 hurdles) at the NCS Tri-Valley Meet but was able to recover and still get a PR in her last event of the day, the triple jump. That mark was good enough for nine place overall. Her coach adds, “She is quite the competitor and has a bright future ahead of her.”

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

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

10 local athletes named spring sports MVPs for DAL and EBAL honors

JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Ten local athletes received most valuable player honors as spring sports wrapped up the 2024-25 athletic year for area high schools in the East Bay and Diablo athletic leagues.

Tabbed for league most valuable player honors in the DAL were College Park’s Tino Vasell (baseball), Alexis Weiler (softball) and Rio Rauschmeier (Valley lacrosse), Clayton Valley Charter’s Chyann Valdehueza (stunt) and Northgate’s Nate Luehs and Max Carlos (baseball) and Zeon Hubp (Foothill volleyball). De La Salle championship baseball players Tyler Spangler (EBAL player of the year) and Graham Schlicht (offensive player of the year) and Kellen Dunn (lacrosse offensive player of the year) were EBAL honorees.

Local schools in Diablo Athletic League plus Carondelet and De La Salle (East Bay Athletic League) allleague honorees:

BASEBALL

DAL Foothill MVP –Vasell (College Park). First Team – Fabian Gomez, Vince Della Santina (Clayton Valley Charter), Jimmy Voorhies, Riley Meadows, TJ Reinhart (CP). Second Team - Cole Edmonston, Artur Kleyman (CVC), Connor Berkowitz, Sebastian Alvarez (CP).

DAL Valley MVP –Luehs (Northgate); MVP Pitcher – Carlos (NG). First Team – Adrian Machado (Concord), Chris Flores, Blayne Ballad, Connor Weitl (NG). Second Team – Aaron Hunt, Max Dashner (Con), Cole Torrey, Shane Malloy (NG).

EBAL MVP - Spangler. Offense – Schlicht. First Team- Roman Bartosh, Alec Blair, Antonio Castro. Second Team – Nico Baumgartner, Zach Tchejeyan.

B OYS G OLF

DAL Valley First Team –Hudson Freitas (Con), Bode Adams (CP), Johnny Warrender (CVC). Second TeamJunior Coronel, Liam Bomar (CVC), Dawson Wood (Con).

DAL Foothill Second Team – Drake Russell (NG).

EBAL First Team- Noah Eisen, Drue Sanchez. Second Team – Will Hardy.

L ACROSSE

DAL Boys : First Team –Jack Richardson, Finn McLean (NG), Brady Mize (CP); Second Team – Evan Washam, Nick Hernandez (NG), Jacob Hillsheim (CVC), Jack Doan, Tyler Vinogradov (CP).

EBAL Boys Offensive

MVP Dunn. First Team –Parker Lee, Andrew Bogdan, Cael Carscadden. Second Team – Hudson Lee, Jamison Mitzel.

DAL Girls Valley MVP –Rauschmeier (CP). First Team – Emma Jones-Bey, Alyssa Hennefer, Avila Jopes, Abigail Turner (CP), Kiley Ruff, Avery Boughton, Ally DeMartini (CVC), Damia Nait Challal (Ygnacio Valley). Second Team – Olivia Forrester, Cali Leidgen, Erika Shipstead (CVC), Sophia Klesow, Brady Lyons, Cheyenne Ruperto (CP), Savannah DeLaRosa-Hale (YV).

DAL Girls Foothill Second Team - Danica Heine, Bella Johansson (NG).

EBAL Girls First Team –Lucia Mannoni; Second Team – Natalie Hilmen.

S OFTBALL

DAL Valley First Team –Sophie Ramos (MD), Aislynn Newlin, Shay Caban (Con). Second Team – Ashley Cornejo (MD), Emmalee Usedom (Con).

DAL Foothill MVPWeiler (CP). First Team –Isabella Holt, Victoria Collins, Chloe Herico (CVC), Avery Rodriguez (CP), Addy Baxter, Ashley Herman, Taelyn Jriyasetapong, (NG). Second Team – Anja Perreira, Jana Rojas, Camdyn Alton (CVC), Maya Davis, Viviana Moguel, Savannah Wilson (CP).

EBAL First Team – Reese Albano, Kiley Abrojena, Maia Schohens, Angela Gates. Second Team – Nori Umene, Myleiana Lopez, Anna Gustafson.

S TUNT

itri Bazulin (NG). Second Team Doubles – Jory Leach, Daniel Rosti (NG).

DAL Valley First Team Singles – Daniel Yoshimoto (CVC). First Team Doubles – Ryan Teixeira, Kayro Gonzalez (CVC). Second Team Singles – David Yoshimoto, Sebastian Balmaceda (CVC), Martin Todd (CP).

T RACK & F IELD

Five Stars on Yelp

over 15

Marsh Creek, Morgan Territory

DAL MVP – Valdehueza (CVC). First Team –Stephanie Castellanos, Gabby Weeks, Mia Forester, Addison Warren (CVC), Mara Hill, Coral Phillips, Aniya Smith (CP), Roxanna Lara, Giselle Vazquez (Con). Second Team – Lauren Barberio, Emma Lam, Sophia Canesa (CVC), Alyson Rivera Castillo, Davia Watkins (Con).

EBAL Second Team –Peyton Gross.

S WIMMING & D IVING

DAL Boys First TeamDiego Castaneda (CVC), Kyle Kengla, Marcus Manuel, Ben Nonaka, Brady Cannon (NG). Second Team – Nic Austen (CP), Morgan Wendler (NG). Third Team –Connor Tillberg (CP).

DAL Girls First Team –Julia Jensen, Monica Warren, Rebecca Griffin, Simone Morrison (NG), Madison Bautista (CVC). Second Team – Kyla Joseph, Alexis Steffensen, Becca Adent (CVC). Third Team - Haylee Wong, Abby Ikeda (CVC).

B OYS T ENNIS

DAL Foothill First Team

Singles – Raihan Lele (NG). Second Team Singles – Dim-

DAL Boys First Team –Charles Smith, Dimaurier Bejnjamin, Ernest Okere, Myles Tugbenyoh (CVC), Ethan Cunningham (NG). Second Team – Logan Remington, Nathan Do, Julian Walker (CVC), Jack Rattary (CP), Ian Williamson, Trevor Stapf, Zachary Simon (NG). Third Team – Viran Edussuriya (NG).

EBAL Boys First Team –Trey Caldwell III, Toa Faavae, Emery Speight, Chase Young, Ikembuchukwu Udeh, Dominic Kelley, Anthony Dean, Jaden Jefferson, Duece Jones-Drew, Jayden Nicholas. Second Team –Josh Glueck, Chase Nickens, Aidan Loberg, Kingston Dinh Pham, Tadhag Murray.

DAL Girls First Team –Santia Ali, Vivienne Magu, Kaelyn Ramos Hoang, Maya Maghoney, Thea Jeffress (CVC), Savannah Sawyer (YV). Third Team – Keirabella Brown (Con), Emma Fox, Armita Javidi Parsijani (NG).

EBAL Girls First Team –Malia Velasco. Second Team – Kiana Kenion, Gretchen Yakaitis.

B OYS VOLLEYBALL

DAL Foothill MVP –Hubp (NG). First Team –Atilla Yeh, Johah Lawson (CP), Conor Walsh, Trey Broussard (NG). Second Team – Connor Harze, Ingmar Nordberg (NG), Jaden Quintanilla, Jax Koepp (CP), Zach Modina (CVC).

DAL Valley - First Team – Jumaiya Tabayoyong (Con), Minamba Dembele (MD). Second Team – Adam Clamucha (YV),

We want to publish your sports news Please let us know about your sports news, special events, fund raisers, tryouts, signups and accomplishments. Youth leagues, clubs, schools and adult programs are all welcome to send us a rundown on what you’re doing. Include all the necessary details (too much information is better than too little) with your contact information. It’s simple. Send an email to sports@pioneerpublishers.com.

Levi Serrano (Con). EBAL First Team –Cooper Cassidy. Second Team – Lucas Berry, Austin Berry.

MAX CARLOS AND NATE LUEHS NORTHGATE

TYLER SPANGLER DE LA SALLE

ZEON HUBP NORTHGATE

KELLEN DUNN DE LA SALLE

SCHLICHT DE LA SALLE

Clayton Valley Charter hosted nine teams at first ever Scholastic eSports Invitational

ABIGAIL KELLER

Special to the Pioneer

Clayton Valley Charter High School hosted its very first CVCHS Scholastic eSports Invitational last month, with nine college and high school teams from across California.

The event not only featured a variety of games but also fostered a sense of belonging for the eSports community.

The energy from the competition could be felt from outside the A-wing doors at the Concord school as screens flashed and students cheered.

The event ran all day and featured a plethora of live competitions such as Super Smash Bros and Valorant tournaments in various classrooms.

In the hallway just a few feet outside the tournaments, student projects from the Computer Game Programming and Design Academy were displayed. This provided opportunities for fellow students, educators and industry professionals to collaborate and network.

Anthony Anderson is the administrative lead for the CVCHS Programming Acade-

Athletes,

from page B1

Mark of the Year

Male Colin Farley Soccer breaking goals saved and goals given up record

CONCORD

Male Athlete of the Year

Jayden Reger Football/Wrestling

Female Athlete of the Year

Lamiyah Washington Flag Football/Basketball/Track

Eddie Award

Andre Hawley Cross Country/Wrestling/Track & Field

Aaimya Brown-Webster Flag/Wrestling

Coaches Award

Hudson Freitas Water Polo/Wrestling/Golf

Emma Tayas Sideline Cheer/Water Polo/Swimming/Stunt Cheer

Scholar Athlete

Jared Tumay Tennis

Aislyn Newlin Softball

Athletic Boosters

Scholarship Hudson FreitasWater Polo/Wrestling/Golf

Levi Serrano Volleyball

DE LA SALLE

Co-Athlete of the Year

Trey Caldwell Cross Country/ Track

Co-Athlete of the Year

Alec Blair, Basketball/Baseball

NORTHGATE

Female Eric Griffin

Memorial Award Makenna ChoiSoftball/Tennis

ment, bringing pride to the host school.

Following the showcases and various tournaments at the eSports Invitational, Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer handed out awards to the tournament winners.

CVCHS senior Alan Richardson noted his four years in the Programming Academy, which began in the game design class. He specified the skills and values he has learned from eSports, as well as how he can apply them to real-life.

Athlete Spotlight

my, which focuses on computer science and game design and development. He played a critical role in planning the eSports Invitational and detailed the importance of such an event, which provides insight into potential career pathways for the students.

“The main goal and aspiration of this event was to connect the entire eSports ecosystem, looking at industry, educators and students from all grade levels,” said Anderson.

“We’re basically bringing K-14 to industry. The event’s goal was aimed towards getting students into careers, not just about gaming.”

One of the most notable events of the eSports Invitational was the Valorant Tournament, which included Pretty Pink Princesses, Evergreen Valley College, Ohlone College Renegades and Clayton Valley Charter High School. The Clayton Valley alumni team ended up winning the tourna-

Male Eric Griffin Memorial Award Blayne Ballard Football/Soccer/Baseball

YGNACIO VALLEY

Male Athlete of the Year

Antonio Kellogg Jr Basketball

Co-Female Athlete of the Year Savannah Sawyer Track

Co-Female Athlete of the Year Damia Nait Challal Lacrosse/Volleyball

“Esports has been a really good way to work with different teams and get used to talking to strangers, which is something you do in real-life all the time,” said Richardson. “You really get used to getting out of your comfort zone and just having fun with different teammates.”

Through events like this, the CVCHS eSports team expands its reach to both students and the community. Although centered around gaming, the focus of the day highlighted the many career opportunities available to the dedicated academy students.

Fabian Gomez

School: Clayton Valley Charter

Grade: Senior

Sport: Baseball

Discipline and mental toughness drive Clayton Valley Charter varsity first baseman and lefthanded batter Fabian Gomez in his pursuit to reach the top, no matter the challenge. Playing for the Ugly Eagles varsity baseball team for the past three years, Gomez has had to prove himself again and again. Beginning on junior varsity at CVCHS as a freshman, he worked hard to earn his spot on varsity. However, that was easier said than done since after his freshman season he suffered an injury to his right elbow that required UCL reconstruction surgery. More commonly known as Tommy John surgery, this entire rebuild of his elbow led to a long journey to recovery, and hard work and dedication to achieve that coveted varsity position. Despite this setback, he came back stronger and earned first team all-Diablo Athletic League honors this year. Not only was he recognized by his league, but Gomez also received the Matt Nolen Memorial Baseball Scholarship this year, an honor that is passed on year to year in the name of CV baseball alumni Matt Nolen. His coach Casey Coakley reflects on coaching Gomez, “Fab is one of the most consistent, respectful players I have coached in recent memory. You always know you are going to get a tremendous work ethic, focus and, of course, a very strong lefthanded bat.” This spring Gomez helped his CVCHS

team bounceback from a rare omission from the North Coast Section baseball playoffs in 2024. Back in the post-season, his team lost to DAL champions College Park in the Section quarterfinals. Gomez was also a member of a local travel club team called Alpha. Gomez applies that same effort to his studies with determination in the classroom at Clayton Valley Charter, earning a 3.5 GPA. This fall, Gomez is committed to attend UC Santa Barbara where he is signed to play baseball for the Gauchos. After a successful college run, he hopes to go pro and make it to the major leagues.

CVCHS student journalist Corinne Jeandheur wrote this Spotlight, her final spotlight after two outstanding years as a writer for The Pioneer.

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

ALEC BLAIR DE LA SALLE

LOGAN KNAPP CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER

MAKENNA CHOI NORTHGATE

SAVANNAH SAWYER YGNACIO VALLEY

LAYLA DIXON & JOSIE HAAST CARONDELET

JAYDEN REGER CONCORD HIGH

ANTONIO KELLOGG JR YGNACIO VALLEY

Abigail Keller

The Valorant tournament included the host team at the first-ever CVCHS Scholastic eSports Invitational last month with nine college and high school teams from across California competing on the Concord campus.

Experience a day in Clayton before electricity and plumbing

Editor’s Note: Debbie Eistetter is a member of the Clayton Historical Society board of directors and has been writing Clayton’s history column for the past eight years. This will be her last column as she moves on to new endeavors. We thank her for her wonderful contribution to the Pioneer and wish her well.

The following charming piece was written 20 years ago by Janet Easton, former president of the Clayton Historical Society and a fifth generation Clayton resident. Take a step backward. A step in time. The year is 1900. It is not quite daylight but the hills are tinged pink with morning. A rooster crows and another rooster answers. You’re in downtown Clayton.

DEBBIE

EISTETTER THE WAY WE WERE

People rise from their feather beds. The men and children go out to tend the livestock in their midst.

Cows need to be milked, eggs gathered and every living thing fed. The woman of the house stokes the wood stove and prepares to fix

Freedom to move:

Why Independence Day inspires new beginnings

As the sky lights up with fireworks this Fourth of July, many families across Contra Costa County are thinking about more than just barbecues and parades—they’re thinking about change. Whether it’s moving closer to family, finding more space, or starting fresh in a new neighborhood, summertime—especially around Independence Day—has always been a season of new beginnings.

I often see a shift in momentum right around the Fourth of July. School’s out, the weather’s warm, and people have time to breathe—and plan. That’s when the calls start coming in.

“We’re finally ready to make a move.”

“We want to downsize before the holidays.”

“It’s time for a bigger yard—or maybe just a new chapter.”

And it makes sense. The Fourth of July reminds us of what it means to have freedom—and that includes the freedom to live where you want, how you want.

For some, that means selling the home they raised their family in and finding something low-maintenance locally or maybe out of state. For others, it means leaving the rent cycle behind and buying their first home. This season

brings out the heart in real estate. It’s not just about square footage or price per foot—it’s about lifestyle, community, and comfort. People are thinking about where they want to spend their Sunday mornings, who they want as neighbors, and where they’ll gather next Fourth of July to watch fireworks from the front yard.

So if you’ve been feeling that pull to make a move, you’re not alone. Summer is a great time to list, shop, or even just explore your options. Let freedom ring— and maybe let your next chapter begin.

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

breakfast for the humans in her life. All over Clayton smoke is rising through the chimneys as the town begins to wake.

Cows, chickens and horses live on nearly every parcel of Clayton land. Pungent smells fill the air. But from the house is the smell of bacon from the smokehouse, fresh biscuits baking and coffee brewing … and there’s a woman in there making it all possible. Mother is packing the children’s school lunches in former lard pails – they make handy lunch buckets. Everyone has chores to do.

N O ONEISIN A HURRY TO GOANYWHERE

The men amble off to their various callings. In town, they are the blacksmiths, the harness maker, the hotel keepers, the saloon proprietors, the livery stable workers and the brewers. Some men head out for the hayfields, the vineyards and the orchards of walnuts, almonds, apples and pears, to plant, harvest and prune.

When a harvest is in progress, the women deliver meals to the fields so that the men can work from sun up to sun down. Other men

vegetable garden needs weeding. The baby is squalling for a diaper change. Midday dinner for the men who come home is leftovers from last night’s supper. It always tastes better the next day.

The children come home from school to the smell of something delicious baking in the over. Mother bakes every day and it is always something good. Today’s treat is blackberry pie made with berries shared by a neighbor.

Too bad the weather is too cool for the youngsters to go swimming in the water tank. The children do their homework. Men come home from their various endeavors.

tend cattle, sheep, pigs and horses on the ranches not far from town.

The school bell rings from the top of the hill. The teacher has been at the school preparing for the day. She has started the fire in the wood stoves to keep her students warm. The floors have been cleaned. The dreaded cleaning of the outhouse has been accomplished. Remember when you took this step back in time that there is no electricity, no telephone service and

no indoor plumbing.

The children go to school on foot or on horseback. There is a barn at the school to house the horses.

Houses all to themselves, the women perform tasks such as laundry, (by hand), then hang the clothes on the line to dry and finally, ironing with very heavy sad irons heated on the ever –burning wood stove.

The mending basket is overflowing. There are buttons to be sewn on and socks to be darned. The

The smells from the pots simmering on the stove make mouths water. The livestock needs tending once again this day. Cows are milked, eggs are gathered and every living thing is fed.

The sky turns pink and the mountain purple with sunset. The family gathers around the table and exchanges their news of the day.

The next morning a rooster crows and another one answers...enjoy your step back in time.

What your SPF label isn’t telling you

Finally! It’s bright, warm, and dizzyingly sunny here in our corner of the East Bay. So, let’s talk about sun safety. The first rule is to maintain an adequate barrier between your skin and Old Sol’s super potent UV rays.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) released its 19th annual evaluation of sunscreen effectiveness in May and made headlines with the results. EWG tested 2,204 brands of sunscreen and found only 498 to be both safe and effective. According to the EWG Guide: “Many sunscreens still fall short by offering misleading claims about protection, using outdated formulas, some even containing ingredients with potential health concerns. Federal sunscreen rules have remained largely unchanged since 1999, leaving consumers to navigate products with uncertainty.” Sunscreens are either chemical or mineral. The mineral type acts primarily as a barrier

(although there will always be some absorption), while the chemical type relies on skin penetration. According to University of Pennsylvania Clinical Professor of Dermatology Dr. Bruce A. Brod: “Chemical sunscreens are sunscreens that work because their chemical properties have the ability to absorb different wavelengths of ultraviolet light and prevent them from damaging the skin.”

The EWG Report discussed FDA research focused on 16

commonly found sunscreen ingredients, with only two (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) identified as generally safe and effective. Two of the remaining 14, aminobenzoic acid and trolamine salicylate, are not considered safe, and the remaining 12 have insufficient data to determine, but at least one is considered a carcinogen. The report also called out the use of “undisclosed fragrances,” finding 36% of them associated with allergies, hormone disruption, and the possible development of cancer.

The report recommends avoiding:

High SPF products, as they do not provide significantly more benefit than lower SPF products and may foster a false sense of security in users.

Any product with oxybenzone, a known carcinogen and suspected hormone disruptor, which includes most spray and powder sunscreens.

The report recommends the use of mineral-based

products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for protection from overexposure in lotion or stick form.

The days of lengthy tanning sessions should have passed with the rotary phone and pagers. It is best to limit sun exposure and wear appropriate clothing, including hats and sunglasses. Remember to exercise caution at the beach, as both water and sand reflect UV rays and actually increase exposure. And, of course, always ensure children are well protected, as their skin is especially susceptible to UV damage, which can manifest later in life.

Here is a link to the EWG Sunscreen Guide: https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/

Nathalie Montijo is a registered nurse with advanced training in Traditional Chinese Medicine, adult geriatric care, hospice and palliative care and is a licensed acupuncturist. Send comments to newwavenightingale@gmail.com.

Special diets support pets with kidney and liver disease

As I mentioned in last month’s column on pet foods, certain health conditions sometimes dictate a change in diet, such as allergies, kidney and liver disease, to name a few.

Chronic kidney (renal) disease frequently necessitates a diet change to help off-load the work the kidneys need to do to excrete toxins in the body.

Renal diets work by lowering the amount of phosphorus (which is not excreted properly in patients with

renal disease), sodium, and protein ingested, to help minimize progressive damage to the kidneys from mineralization, direct toxicity and hypertension. Also, renal diets supplement potassium – a vital electrolyte that patients with kidney disease will urinate in excessive quantities due to the increased urine output of renal patients. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial as antioxidant support to help kidneys as are supplementation with B complex vitamins. Prescription renal diets are specially formulated to address all these needs. Palatability is paramount. Home-made versions of a proper renal diet can also be formulated by a veterinary nutritionist. Liver (hepatic) disease, in general, does not require a specific diet change until and unless the liver changes are severe and end-stage, and causing a neurologic problem called hepatic

encephalopathy.

Even so, a good quality, highly digestible food is ideal to make sure the pet has adequate nutrition which can help slow progression of disease. Sometimes addition of antioxidants is recommended to help with that as well (vitamin E, S-adenosylmethionine or SAMe, milk thistle).

Pets with certain types of liver disease – such as copper storage disease – may need limitations of specific ingredients, but this would be addressed by your veterinarian/veterinary internist.

If progression to hepatic encephalopathy occurs, your veterinarian will start limiting protein quantity. This will minimize ammonia absorption, which is not well tolerated by a poorly functioning liver and can lead to the neurologic signs seen with hepatic encephalopathy.

Allergies to foods can manifest with gastrointestinal signs or itchy skin and recur-

rent skin/ear infections. Itchy skin (also known as pruritus) is less commonly associated with diet than with skin parasites like fleas, or with inhaled allergies –especially if the clinical signs are seasonal.

Our pets’ version of hay fever, for instance, is much more likely to be seen as severely itchy skin, ears and paws. Having said that, if parasites and seasonal allergies are completely ruled out, a diet trial may be warranted to help identify a food allergy.

Food allergies happen following a long time of eating the same food rather than an acute reaction to a new food, so diet trials typically last 6-8 weeks of feeding a single novel (meaning not previously fed to this animal) protein to see if a new protein source will alleviate the itching.

If there appears to be success with the diet change, a feeding challenge can be

done by refeeding the suspected offending protein to see if it causes recurrence of itching. Many opt not to do the challenge part once itching has been resolved, they choose to move forward with a new protein source from a balanced product.

There are commercially available foods that have what are considered novel proteins, such as rabbit, venison, duck, certain fish, bison, alligator or kangaroo meat in them, instead of more commonly fed proteins. A new one, get this, is even made from black soldier fly larvae.

Another option is to feed what is called a hydrolyzed protein diet, where the protein is essentially broken down to its component parts to hopefully not be recognizable to the gastrointestinal tract as an offending protein.

Lastly, sometimes dogs and cats can have trouble with more processed foods, such as kibble and might benefit from

a switch to one of the frozen commercial foods I mentioned last column – even if they contain a protein the animal had been eating. Two I have used with success over the past few years are Just Food For Dogs and Chi Dog, though there are a few others. This condition could be compared to the rise in gluten allergies in people associated with excessive processing of grains. Hopefully this was an informative quick peek at certain specific diseases that can be helped utilizing specialized diets. You will want to work with your veterinarian if your pet has a condition that might benefit from considering a prescription diet or other specialized diet.

Micki McCabe Walls, DVM, DACVIM, FAAVA, is a longtime Clayton resident. The retired local veterinarian has an interest in internal and integrative medicine. Email questions and comments to drmccabevet@gmail.com

Clayton Historical Society

Metta Stockfleth Frank with her children George, friend Ethel, Dorothy and Willmetta in a Clayton orchard, 1915.

JENNIFER STOJANOVICH CLOSE TO HOME

NATHALIE MONTIJO NEW WAVE NIGHTINGALE

MICKI MCCABE WALLS, DVM PET SMARTS

THE ARTS Orinda Starlight

Orinda Starlight Village Players started its summer season with the Agatha Christie gem – “Murder on the Orient Express.” It continues now through July 5, followed by Jean Anouilh’s “Ring Round the Moon” (July 25 – Aug. 16) and closes with Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre” (Sept. 5–

27).

“Each show is set in a different time period – each of them unique,” said Matt Cardigan-Smith, who directs the Agatha Christie show, and is costuming all three plays.

“‘Orient Express’ features costumes from 1934 with all the glamour that period’s firstclass passengers would have worn while ‘Ring Round the Moon’ is set in the 1890s and includes beautiful ball gowns and lots of jewels. ‘Jane Eyre’ features attire from the 1820s – 1860s.”

He adds that the set for “Orient Express” is quite grand “unlike anything our audiences have seen in the past. We’re really pulling out all the stops, and I have an incredible cast of actors that will blow everyone away,” Cardigan-Smith said.

“Murder on the Orient Express” begins at a restaurant on the train platform with the rest of the action taking place on the train.

“The train is its own character in a way,” said CardiganSmith. “First you see the outside of the train, and then it opens, and you see the inside of each car.”

For season tickets or individual tickets to any of the shows, go to https://www.orsvp.org/.

Talk about sibling rivalry –Sam Shepard nails it with his gritty drama “True West.”

Two brothers – Lee, a drifter and petty thief, and Austin, a successful screenwriter – struggle for power while collaborating on a West-

ern screenplay in their mother’s Southern California home.

Lafayette’s Town Hall Theatre, however, reimagines this American classic through a Latine lens. Directed by Katja Rivera, the show offers a fresh perspective on Shepard’s explosive drama of family dynamics and the elusive nature of the American Dream.

“I chose ‘True West’ for this season because it dives headfirst into questions of identity, belonging and the stories we inherit,” said Artistic Director Richard Perez. “I was drawn to the way this play strips away ar tifice and exposes the primal tensions that can both divide and bind a family.”

Justin Hernandez plays Austin with Christian Arteaga taking on his brother Lee. Linda Amayo-Hassan portrays the mom with Guillermo “Yiyo” Ornelas as Saul. “True West” runs through June 28 at 3535 School St., Lafayette. Call 925-283-1557 or go to https://www.townhalltheatre.com/true-west.

Center Rep continues its senior sex scandal, murdermystery musical “Happy Pleasant Valley” through June 29.

In this quirky, fun adventure, young internet influencer Jade Park decides to help her rebellious grandmother, whose nocturnal adventures have raised eyebrows at her senior residential community. When

a string of June’s lovers mysteriously die, the pressure is on Jade to solve the mystery and save her grandmother’s (sex) life. Call 925-943-7469 or go to

https://www.centerrep.org/tic kets/buy-tickets.

Looking for creative, enjoyable opportunities this summer? Clayton Theatre Company has just the thing for ages 7 - 16. In addition to preparing songs and dances for the closing production, the camp also teaches audition techniques, how to prepare a monologue, stage presence, teamwork and more.

Summer Stage runs July 7 – 11, 14 – 18, with participants ending the two-week camp with a production of Disney’s “Jungle Book Jr.” Roxanne Pardi directs with La Tonya Watts as choreographer. Call 925-334-0880 or go to https://www.claytontheatrecompany.com/.

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

When I met with Charles H. White, the celebrated landscape painter whose tranquil scenes have found homes around the world, I wasn’t quite prepared for how humble and soft-spoken he’d be. With over five decades of painting experience, thousands of artworks sold, and a portfolio that spans continents, White is a master of his craft – but you’d never hear that from him. Instead, he smiles gently, brushes his hand across a portfolio of work and begins the story in the most modest of ways.

“My first customer was my aunt,”he said, eyes crinkling at the memory. “She bought a painting I’d done of the Rockies. Paid me $15. And then, she bought me more art supplies so I could keep going.” He pauses. “That was everything to me back then.”

Born in Quebec, Canada, in 1943, White’s love for art emerged early – by age six, he was sketching wildlife in pencil and ink. By 12, he was experimenting with oil paints, finding himself drawn to the way light moved across landscapes.

Throughout his teens, he sold paintings, gaining confidence one brushstroke at a time.

But life took a practical turn after he earned his degree from Brigham Young University in 1967. He pursued a 20-year career in sales, all while continuing to paint in his free time. It wasn’t until 1994, when the income from his art surpassed his corporate salary, that he made a life-changing decision.

“I remember looking at the numbers and thinking, ‘Well … I guess I’m a fulltime artist now,’” he laughed. “It was terrifying and exhilarating all at once.”

Since then, White has never looked back.

His body of work is steeped in calm and clarity –misty forest paths, sunlit gardens, peaceful meadows – all rendered in rich, layered oil techniques that seem to glow from within. His process is slow, meditative and deliberate.

“I build-up the color in thin layers,” he explains. “It’s time-consuming, but it creates depth and luminosity. I want people to feel like they could walk right into the scene.”

And they do.

White’s work has appeared in galleries from Carmel to New York, featured in nation-

al publications like US Art, Art Trends and Art Business News. He’s been named an “Artist to Watch,” was a three-time finalist in the Arts for the Parks competition, and has sold over 8,000 originals and prints in the past 15 years alone.

But even with that success, White remains grounded. Teaching, he said, is one of the most rewarding parts of his journey.

“I’ve taught classes in Danville and Clayton. It’s wonderful to watch someone fall in love with painting – to see them unlock something they didn’t know was there.” His eyes brighten. “It reminds me why I started.”

In 2011, he compiled his artistic journey into a book, “The Path Worth Taken,” part memoir, part artistic philosophy. It’s filled with personal stories, thoughts on the creative process, and of course, his luminous artwork.

“The title says it all,” he reflects. “It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it. Every moment spent painting, teaching, learning – it’s the path I was meant to take.” Bay Area locals can experience White’s work up close. His paintings can be seen at JOR Fine Art Gallery in Clayton, Blackhawk Gallery in Danville, Valley Art Gallery in Walnut Creek and a premier gallery in Carmel. Spending time with Charles White feels like stepping into one of his landscapes – calm, thoughtful, full of light. His art reminds us to slow down, look closer and find peace in the quiet places. And perhaps, like that aunt who bought his first painting, we’ll leave inspired to help something beautiful grow. Julia O’Reilly Is the

Jorge Hernandez Lopez

(L-R) Justin Hernandez (Austin), Linda Amayo-Hassan (Mom) and Christian Arteaga (Lee) in “True West” playing at Lafayette’s Town Hall Theatre.

Kevin Berne Influencer Jade (center: Sophie Oda) feels pressure from her online followers (L-R: Jacqueline De Muro, Lucinda Hitchcock Cone, Cindy Goldfield, Danny Scheie) in Center REP and TheatreWorks Silicon Valley’s Happy Pleasant Valley: A Senior Sex Scandal Murder Mystery Musical, performing at the Lesher Center for the Sunday, June 1 through Sunday, June 29.

Matthew Goff, MGoff Imagery Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express, which featuresPatrick Atkinson as Hercule Poirot, continues through July 5 at Orinda Starlight Village Players.

Charles H. White stands proudly beside his luminous landscape paintings, inviting viewers into the calm and beauty of his art.

SALLY HOGARTY STAGE STRUCK

When it comes to high end Jewish cuisine, the holy grail for my people are lox and bagels along with pastrami sandwiches on rye bread. With these gourmet treats in mind, I eagerly looked forward to trying recently opened Rosie’s and Boichik Bagels.

Though diametrically opposite, both places are a needed shot in the arm for the local restaurant scene. Rosie’s represents the definition of a mom and pop business, while Boichik’s is a small franchise offering a superior product.

Located in a small strip mall on 4666 Clayton Road in Concord (parking in the back) 415-577-3066, Rosie’s is operated by Selina Marx and her husband Leon. They recently migrated from San Francisco with their two children, ages five and seven, to experience suburban life in Concord.

Although Rosie’s is Selina’s first business endeavor, she was virtually born into the business. As a child, she helped her dad Juergen (Harpo) Marx, who operated several coffee and sandwich kiosks in S.F.’s financial district. Marx also owned Harpo’s Cafe Society nightclub.

Moving to Concord, Selina wanted to open a small cafe offering quality sandwiches, pastries, coffee drinks and soups of similar quality to where she grew-up. Judging from Rosie’s growing customer base, her vision is being realized.

Each day Leon drives over the Bay Bridge where he picks up Wedemeyer Bakery prod-

Pastries, sandwiches, schmear – say

ucts, pastries from Jane the Bakery, along with Italian lunch meats. Selina emphasizes “We want to serve quality food, not just fast foods.”

Things start at Rosie’s (named after Leon’s Grandma) with custom ground Moschetti Artisan Coffee Roaster, roasted in nearby Vallejo.Their java drinks are complimented by delicious muffins filled with a scrambled egg, choice of cheese and sausage or bacon. Also an excellent ham and cheese croissant is available all day. For lunch, all I can think of is pastrami on marbled rye. It reminds of what might be found at Sherman’s Deli in Palm Springs. It’s that good. Another good choice is Rosie’s Club Sandwich featuring a combo of meats and cheeses, along with fresh avocado and organic greens.

Not to be missed is the secret garlic and pesto sauces served with sandwich items. These help makes Rosie’s a speciallunch destination.

These sandwiches can easily be split and enjoyed with their soup of the day, and thus, far I have enjoyed the potato and the mushroom ones. These soups measure up to any local sitdown restaurant I have visited.

All of this served in a friendly environment that

reminds one of how they would like to be treated at home.

“I am obsessed with freshness, using the best ingredients possible and providing personal service to all that

visit our place,” said Selina.

Most amazing,Selina and Leon have their restaurant/take-out establishment open 9-5 Monday through Saturday, yet still have time to properly raise their family.

“After 5 p.m. we treasure our role of simply being parents,” said Selina.

Across town at the strip mall on Treat and Oak Grove (925-510-2721) can be found newly opened Boichik Bagels. This is the eleventh location for this fast-growing chain that began only five years ago.

Starting in Berkeley, Founder/CEO Emily Winston has revolutionized her industry.

The foundation of Boichik’s are their bagels. The dough is manufactured in a factory they operate near their Berkeley headquarters.It is

shipped fresh each day to various outlets.The dough is then boiled (in the New York tradition) then dipped hotby hand in various seasonings. Among of them include everything, poppy seed, onion, garlic, etc.

The dough is then baked at 400-degrees for 15 minutes in a revolving oven.Out come perfect bagels that are sweet, crunchy and soft inside. Although on the expensive side at $ 3.25 each, customers continue to flock here, especially on weekends.

Boichik produces incredible cream cheese spreads to adorn their bagels.My favorite is the pink – which is semicultured, leaving aflavor similar to sour cream.I also enjoyed the cream cheese with bits of smoked salmon and the horseradish-cheddar-scallion combo.

BUTWAIT THERE’S MORE

Boichik offers classic tuna, white fish and egg salad to be spread on their bagels. These offerings take second fiddle to their classic lox and bagel sandwich. Servedwith fresh tomato slices, red onion, capers and cucumbers – Jewish culinary utopia is realized. Felix Vasquez manages Boichik, who first began his career as a dishwasher. Soon, after learning other functions of bagel-making along the way, he proudly runs the local operation, which is a welcome addition to the region’s culinary scene.

Rich Eber is a local journalist and long time resident of Concord. He covers topics from politics to gourmet food. Contact him at richeber9@gmail.com.

The end of an era for local radio

As you may have heard by now, Concord’s student-built radio station, 90.5 KVHS, is set to go dark around June 28. For details on why this is happening and updates on the station’s future, visit savekvhs.com.

For generations, KVHS has been an FM staple in the Diablo Valley, and a soundtrack to countless lives. Understandably, its likely fate is deeply upsetting for many in our community.

As a Central Coast transplant, I don’t share that lifelong connection, but I’ve always admired how cherished this local institution is. I’m honored to have played a small part in its recent history through my weekly local music program, “The Beat of Diablo.”

As this chapter closes, I can’t help but reflect on nearly 200 consecutive weeks of bringing local music to our FM airwaves.

My journey with KVHS began in 2021 when KVHS alumnus Phil Moore became the volunteer manager. The station was transitioning from “90.5 The Edge” (nu-metal, hardcore, etc.) to “freeform radio,” emphasizing progressive rock and classic rock deep cuts.

It was unique, but I saw an opportunity for it to truly differentiate itself from the rest of the dial by featuring something entirely unavailable elsewhere – original, local music. I reached out via email to see if there was any interest in this.

The initial response wasn’t “no,” so I quickly created a pilot episode, featuring some recent local releases and some audio from performances on “Concord Couch Concerts,” the pandemic-era music platform I helped produce.

I pitched the radio show as a weekly, pre-recorded local music hour that I’d produce at home and send into the station as an audio file for review a few days ahead of the scheduled airtime.

Was I feeling imposter syndrome? Absolutely!

I had zero radio experience and no affiliation with the station or its legacy. I didn’t quite have my “chops” yet as a DJ either! My initial on-air delivery was a subdued, NPResque voice – fine for news, but not great for a music DJ.

Despite these pitfalls, I trusted my own expertise on the content, and frankly, had nothing to lose by asking.

When I first spoke with Phil on the phone, he asked,

“What’s in it for you?” I don’t recall my exact answer, but the question gave me pause. I likely spoke about the importance of celebrating local music, how streaming has made music purchases obsolete, and how original acts struggle to find an audience with our local stages dominated by cover bands and tribute acts.

Something in my ramblings must have resonated, because he eventually responded with something to the effect of, “I like the cut of your jib. Let’s give it a shot.”

The learning curve was steeper than I had imagined.

I had to learn various broadcast restrictions beyond the typical FCC rules, like the licensee’s request to not say or play anything political or religious.

Additionally, due to the type of FCC license, I couldn’t say anything promotional or inadvertently instruct listeners to do anything. I had to train myself to navigate this minefield, but overtime, it became second nature.

Less natural was my initial “host” voice. I think I was subconsciously mimicking Casey Kasem for the first few months. I’ve thankfully found my own voice since, but I still

hear that influence now and then.

Once trained up, the work itself was a lot to manage.

This involved sifting through new releases from my ever-growing network of local artists, researching upcoming shows, updating websites accordingly and creating social media content. As a full-time San Francisco office worker, I had been devoting my BART commutes, evenings and weekends to the show.

Ultimately, the workloadto-bandwidth ratio was unsustainable. I eventually worked out a reduced schedule with my employer, thereby reducing my income by 20%. I was now free to dedicate one entire workday to this effort. But why? Why take the sacrifice? What was in it for me? That question is no easier to answer today than it was when Phil asked four years ago, but I do know, unequivocally, that it does indeed matter ... and not just to me.

This was evident the first time I saw a social media video of a local musician sitting in their car (because that’s often where their only FM player is), getting emotional as they listened to music they created broadcasted on the station they grew up with. Pure joy.

I’ve saved many such videos, which can be seen on the highlights reels of @thebeatofdiablo on Instagram. It’s too early to say if or how “The Beat” will go on, but I feel like it must. It has to. It simply matters too much.

Contact Dave Hughes at MrDaveHughes@gmail.com.

Rich Eber

Salina Marx, Chef-Owner of Rosie’s Cafe, proudly displays her featured Club Sandwich.

DAVE HUGHES THE BEAT OF DIABLO

RICHARD EBER TASTE & TELL