May 20, 2022
www.PioneerPublishers.com
Medals move out of the shadows and into a place of distinction Veterans displaying honors with pride in memory boxes
CCWD residential users facing 15% cut this summer BEV BRITTON The Pioneer
DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent
Medals, pins, badges and ribbons bestowed on those who served this nation with valor are emerging after decades of being tucked away in the shadows. Rather than stuffed into shoe boxes or the corners of dresser drawers, these priceless heirlooms are finding new homes in shadow boxes. Proudly displayed for others to see, they hold the memories of brothers and sisters in arms that remain foremost in the minds of their holders. These recollections, some unbearably painful, are the reality for some veterans whose honors have been long David Scholz forgotten and, worse yet, sadly Veterans Bill Green, left, Steve Burchik and Jim Hill, far right, show off their military shadow boxes, with discarded. Dennis Giacovelli, president of the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley.
See Veterans, page 4
KidFest finally returning to Concord May 28-30
Photo courtesy Bugs Galore and Bay Area KidFest
Bugs Galore and More is open all day during Bay Area KidFest in Concord on May 28-30. The exhibit includes inserts, reptile and more that attendees of all ages can get up close and personal with. Bugs Galore also has an area to dig for dinosaur bones.
It will have been just over three years when Bay Area KidFest opens its door next Saturday for the 31st version of the Bay Area’s longest-running family event on the Memorial Day Weekend. A full lineup of attractions, arts and sports activities, jam-packed entertainment, rides, food and fun will be available at Mt. Diablo High School in Downtown Concord. In a spacious outdoor setting, the low KidFest admission price includes Meet and Greets all day with children’s favorites Chase and Skye of PAW Patrol plus Curious
George, free non-stop entertainment on the Main Stage, traveling attractions Nerveless Nocks Legendary All American Classic Thrill and Stunt Show direct from Florida, Bugs Galore and More, and Kid’s Town America. There are dozens of other free kid’s activities including balloon hats, spin art, keepsake handprints, inflatable slides and crawls, kiddie golf, soccer and much more included for the low admission price. For the 11th year, KidFest presents a special Memorial Day Ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Monday, May 30, with the 19-
time World Champion Concord Blue Devils C Drum and Bugle Corps and Mt. Diablo High School Jr. ROTC color guard honoring America’s service people past and present. On Sunday afternoon, Bike East Bay will once again present the free Bike Rodeo from 1-4 p.m. The spine-tingling Nerveless Nocks Legendary All American Classic Thrill and Stunt Show comes from Florida with some amazing feats of daring. There are free shows
See KidFest, page 6
April’s showers may have brought May flowers, but June’s heat will bring water restrictions – and increased fees – come July. On April 20, the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) board approved a plan for a 15 percent reduction in water use as the state faces its third year of drought. CCWD’s service area includes Concord, Clayton and portions of Pleasant Hill. The cuts are in response to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s March Executive Order requiring urban water suppliers to implement a minimum of Stage 2 drought response action. On July 1, CCWD’s residential and municipal retail customers must reduce use by 15%, with commercial/industrial customers facing a 5% cut and irrigation/agricultural customers required to use 25% less. Because the district implemented a voluntary 10 percent reduction in 2021, the 2020 billing period will be used to determine water usage. “We know that further reductions can be a challenge, but our customers are conscientious water users who step up for their community,” board President Lisa Borba said in a press release. Borba, whose Division 1 includes parts of Concord, had previously announced that she would resign effective April 22. The board decided to fill the vacancy by appointment, with applications accepted until 5 p.m. May 19. The post will then be up for election next November.
See Water, page 7
The concerts are back so get your summer on AARON BAKER Correspondent
return to pre-pandemic conditions and guidelines.
After years of reduced, virtual or canceled events, Concord, Clayton and Pleasant Hill are all slated for a summer full of live music. Signaling a much-needed return to normal life, concerts at the plaza, the park and the lake offer everything from classical to blues and Rolling Stones cover bands. While city officials ask that anyone with a fever or other COVID-19 symptoms stay home, each concert series is expecting a full turnout and a
CONCERTS IN THE GROVE Clayton kicked off the festivities May 7 with The Fundamentals and looks forward to Concerts in The Grove 6-8:30 p.m. every other Saturday through Sept. 10. With the first full season since 2019, turnout is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels. “Bring the kiddos, blankets, picnic supplies and anything else you need to enjoy wonderful live music under a beautiful sunset and views of the mountain,” says Julie Pierce of the Clayton Concerts Committee. For more information, visit claytonconcerts.com.
Next issue, June 17, Deadline, June 6
MUSIC AND MARKET/ TUESDAY NIGHT BLUES In Concord, the 33rd annual Music and Market series in Todos Santos Plaza will run June 2-Sept. 29, starting at 6:30 p.m. every Thursday. In addition, Tuesday Night Blues will return for the first time since 2019, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays in July. Booking manager Jim Ocean encourages residents to enjoy charming Todos Santos with a wonderful, family-friendly lineup set amongst many restaurants, food vendors and a play structure for the kids. For a full schedule, visit cityofconcord.org/downtownevents.
SUNSET BY THE LAKE Pleasant Hill’s Sunset by the Lake Summer Concert Series returns Sunday, May 29, and will run 6-8 p.m. every other Sunday until Sept. 4. Featuring bands like East Bay Mudd, The Unauthorized Rolling Stones and The Big Jangle, this year’s lineup promises opportunities for dancing, singing along or just relaxing with a picnic on the grass. “We have a great lineup for the coming season, and we hope to see an excellent turnout,” says Geoff Gillette, Pleasant Hill community relations manager. For details, visit pleasanthillca.org and click on “Festivals and Events.” Despite many false starts, life in the East Bay seems to
City of Pleasant Hill
The Big Jangle, a Tom Petty cover band, will have concertgoers dancing when they return to Pleasant Hill on Sept. 4.
finally be returning to normal for most residents. There are few better ways to celebrate than coming together for live music and a picnic with your friends and neighbors.
Aaron Baker is a creative writer, educator, and musician in the East Bay. If he isn't reading or writing, he's probably practicing with his band Box of Matches, or playing pick-up basketball at the park.
Postal Customer ECRWSS PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190
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www.claytonclubsaloon.com
May 20, 2022
Kids fly high – in a good way – with Young Falcons and Safe Launch On a bright and sunny Saturday, Carson and about 20 others took off from Buchanan Field. Carson, along Eight-year-old Carson Ward had a rough week deal- with Jasmine Ruiz and Aden ing with another kid at school, Vo, boarded one of the first Young Falcons flights of the but then a surprise lifted his day. spirits. Before heading out to the On April 23, the Concord tarmac, they had a brief safety boy and a group of other orientation meeting. All the local young people got what kids seemed excited, while might be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take to the skies in a some parents looked anxious as they prepared to send their small plane. The Young Falkids into the sky. However, cons, Kids Fly for Free, prosmiles appeared everywhere. gram offers flights by volunteer pilots who want kids to PROTECTING YOUNG MINDS experience the joy of flying. While folks waited for Stephen Tucker, the Young flights, Ron Cuff and Janet Falcons’ Ambassador and Rowse stood by to promote Coordinator, discovered his love of flying when he joined their Safe Launch program as an aircraft club in high school part of the grand opening. The co-founders of Safe and a pilot took him on his Launch talked to parents and first flight. “It changed my kids about substance abuse life,” he said. and addiction prevention. Later, he joined the miliKids got a chance to decotary and started on a life-long rate the side of Cuff ’s airplane career as a pilot. “Being a pilot and flying is with colorful designs and handprints, giving Cuff and a gift,” said Tucker. Rowse time to talk to parents That’s why he and other pilots at Concord’s Buchanan about the importance of preField want to give that gift to venting drug abuse in young developing minds. a new generation. PETE CRUZ The Pioneer
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A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY Back on Earth, Kim Dixon, Carson’s grandmother, wanted to find ways to help her grandson with his challenges. She saw the Young Falcons grand opening sign when driving by the airport. “I thought it would be a great experience. It might take his mind off of things and show him that anything is possible,” she said. “I told him that bullies usually never got an opportunity to do something like this, so he had bragging rights.”
Pete Cruz photo
Carson Ward and Aden Vo boarding one of the first Young Falcon flights at Buchanan Field on April 23.
Photo courtesy Young Falcons
On hand for the grand opening were (Back row) YF Coordinator Rose Desmond, Sam Desmond V, (Middle row) Ron Cuff of Safe Launch; Rashid Yahya, owner of Pacific States Aviation and YF sponsor; Stephen Tucker, YF Ambassador and Coordinator; (Front row) Savannah Tucker, and Safe Launch’s Janet Rowse.
Rows and rows of names of people who have died as a result of substance abuse appear on the underside of the wings of Cuff ’s plane. Safe Launch seeks to keep more kids from ending up on the list. Safe Launch was founded by parents “who believe that preventing childhood exposure to alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs is as important as preventing childhood diabetes or any other preventable disease.” The energetic pair travel to different airport events to spread the message they are so passionate about.
safety. Kids from age 8 and prior to 18 can participate. Pilots and support staff volunteer their time with the help and sponsorship of Pacific States Aviation in Concord. After the grand opening in April, Young Falcons has sessions scheduled once a month. The next date is May 28, however, all seats are booked through the end of summer. Fall registration has not started, but slots will fill up quickly with so many eager kids waiting for their chance to fly. Carson’s Young Falcons certificate proudly hangs on the wall of his room. When he returned from his flight, he gave his grandmother this description: “It was like, calm, and it was so peaceful. Awww man Grandma, it was amazing.”
HELPING OUR YOUTH Both Safe Launch and the Young Falcons programs seek to lift up young minds and give them a helpful boost. Young Falcons grew out of a For more information visit vision to create a community psaflight.com/young-falcons. of future aviators with a focus Visit Safe Launch’s website at on education, training and www.safelaunch.org
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Jennifer and George are the VERY BEST to work with! Each of them alone are amazing, but as a team they knock it out of the park! I have now bought and sold a total of three times with them, and each time it has been consistently pleasurable and easy (well as easy as it can be with buying/selling a home). Additionally, not only do they have deep roots in the area, but they are also very knowledgeable and well respected by the community. To top it off, they are both very easy to work with, kind, respectful and positive. It's a winning combination.
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Concord/Clayton Market Update CONCORD
PRICE
1825 Noemi Dr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $865,000 5564 Alabama Dr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $925,000 4081 Clayton Rd #114 . . . . . . . . . . $325,000 1230 Mountain Side Ct . . . . . . . . $1,650,000 3583 Sanford St . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,220,000 5248 Laurel Dr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,365,000 1162 Saint Francis Dr . . . . . . . . . $1,180,000
SF . .1447 . .1443 . . .889 . .3521 . .2575 . .2022 . .1612
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$1,180,000 Jennifer came highly recommended from a friend who had recently used her to find a forever home in Clayton after unsuccessful attempts with another agent. Jennifer was our main point of contact but we got the added bonus of having the tandem of her and George! Jennifer and George are both extremely knowledgeable in the industry, incredibly well connected in the region and just good people. . Jennifer guided us through each step of the escrow process all the way to the finish line. She truly does make the home buying process personal and we thank her and George for finding our family the perfect home! - Concord
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BED/BATH DATE . .3/1 . . .4/7/2022 . .3/2 . .4/11/2022 . .2/1 . .4/15/2022 . .5/4.5 .4/19/2022 . .3/2.5 .4/22/2022 . .4/2 . .4/22/2022 . .4/2 . .4/25/2022
CLAYTON
PRICE
4190 Leon Dr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,660,000 5860 Caulfield Dr . . . . . . . . . . . $1,499,000 20 Mt Scott Ct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,200,000 1327 Shell Ln. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $880,000 978 Kenston Dr. . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,305,000 1427 Yosemite Cir . . . . . . . . . . $1,100,000 5214 Keller Ridge Dr . . . . . . . . $1,675,000
SF . .1944 . .2700 . .1740 . .1709 . .1571 . .1404 . .3079
BED/BATH
DATE
. . .4/2 . . . .4/4/2022 . . .4/4 . . . .4/5/2022 . . .4/2 . . . .4/8/2022 . . .3/3 . . .4/11/2022 . . .3/2 . . .4/15/2022 . . .3/2.5 .4/20/2022 . . .3/3 . . .4/20/2022
May 20, 2022
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page 3
At 18, she found a pot of hot dogs at the end of the rainbow GENERATIONS OF
CASSANDRA SHONERU Correspondent
CUSTOMERS
Anne Holt has been a loyal customer since Von Felden opened, with four generations of her family eating at the restaurant over the years. “It’s a big deal to come and have Lisa’s hot dogs when I pick up my grandchildren from school,” Holt said. “It truly is part of the community.” For Guillory, it’s those deep connections with customers that matter most. “Families have been coming in for so many years, and then having kids, and then their kids have kids … those are the ones that touch us,” Smiarowski opened Lisa V’s in Concord 40 years ago, she said. when she was only 18. A LONG JOURNEY After four decades of proThat sense of connection viding food – and friendship – and community is mainly due on a napkin she wrote out and Felden’s younger sister, Dayna for the community, Von to the restaurant’s longtime Guillory, also started working Felden said it’s been worth the explained to me what gross owner, Lisa Von Felden. She sales meant and what my dif- at the restaurant when she was journey. started working at the restau- ferent expenses might be,” she 18. She said Von Felden regu“People identify food with rant while in high school and said. “I didn’t even have a a lot of memories,” Von larly worked 60-70 hours a needed to fulfill a “work expe- checkbook. I was 18.” Felden said. “I wouldn’t week in the beginning. rience” class requirement. She change anything for the world. “She probably had four to remembered it wasn’t the I’m really thankful.” A SIGN FROM THE HEAVENS five days off in her first few smoothest ride early on. Her decision was a pretty years,” Guillory said. “The older lady that was Cassandra Shoneru is a freshintuitive one. Von Felden went As a result of her labor, working with me apparently man at Diablo Valley College. She home and talked to her parVon Felden paid off her parwanted to get me fired writes for the DVC Inquirer and ents about it. “They thought I ents’ loan within five years – because she wanted her plans on becoming a journalist. was crazy,” she remembered. and the rest is culinary history. daughter to work here,” Von But “in my mind I was like, Felden said in a recent inter‘I’m gonna do this.’ ” view. Her parents took out a After she told her boss she loan against their home to wouldn’t be able to graduate support her venture. And without the work credits, the from Day 1, Von Felden felt two came to an agreement: her destiny couldn’t have been Von Felden would work clearer. unpaid for a week at another As she drove to pick up restaurant the woman owned. the keys, she came upon “the But in the end, she made biggest, brightest rainbow I’ve herself so useful that she split ever seen” directly over the her work days between both store. Recalling the moment places. “I kind of became her with tears in her eyes, she right arm,” she recalled. added: “I knew God was When the owner later was telling me, ‘That’s your path.’ I interested in selling the busiknew I was doing the right ness, Von Felden asked what it thing.” would take for her to run it. Her work hours were long, “We literally sat down and but business was good. Von
On April 15, Lisa V’s celebrated 40 years since it opened its doors. Since then, locals say not much has changed about the place that serves hot dogs, tacos and burritos in the Vineyard Shopping Center. “It’s the same as I remember it from when I was a kid,” said Melissa Hines, who has been eating at Lisa V’s for more than 35 years. Another loyal customer, Victoria Hines, said simply: “It feels like home when you walk Cassandra Shoneru in.” Lisa Von Felden flanked by sisters Dayna Guillory and Sue
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Clayton Compass Team • 925.673.2188 6200 Center St. Ste E, Clayton, CA 94517 Next door to Eds Mudville Grill Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been veriAll verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. fied. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
Page 4
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
May 20, 2022
Clayton’s inaugural Pride Parade set for June 25 PAMELA MICHAEL Correspondent
Serving our Local Community since 1977
Clayton Pride is planning the town’s first Pride Parade, joining thousands of communities across the country and the world in celebrating Gay Pride Month in June. Clayton Pride, a recently formed group of local residents, has scheduled the parade down Main Street beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 25. It will be replete with floats, dancers, city officials and other parade requisites. With the theme “Every Color in the Rainbow,” everyone is invited to dress colorfully.
Festivities will include face painting and a photo booth in The Grove, along with information tables from local organizations that support Clayton Pride’s mission of working to help all people thrive as healthy and equal members of a culturally rich, inclusive and diverse community. The group is especially mindful of the need to support LGBTQ youth, whose suicide rate is four times higher than their peers. The Pride movement seeks respect and equity for all. Gay Pride Month has more recently expanded to LGBTQQIA+ Pride Month. (For the record:
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex and asexual plus.) Anyone interested in marching in the parade, setting up a booth, volunteering or sponsoring the event can visit claytonpride.org. June 11 is the deadline for submitting an application to participate.
Veterans, from page 1
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Reasons that the honors don’t get properly displayed vary, according to Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley (VNVDV) vice president Steve Burchik, but most common is “I just never got around to it.” Others include “not a lot to put in it,” “not sure where to find paperwork for medals” and “lost records after multiple moves, divorce, etc.” FINDING AVAILABLE RESOURCES
Some of the credit for the increased popularity in protecting and displaying these mementos goes to the Internet, where governmental and commercial resources are available to assist veterans with replacing lost items and identifying other honors they earned since leaving the service. And if it is not the veteran him or herself, other family members are creating displays for a veteran they love, Burchik said. VNVDV has teamed up with docents at the Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley in Danville to provide a central location for any Northern California veteran, regardless of the conflict in which they served, to receive in-person assistance with assembling a shadow box. The TV program “Veterans’ Voices” had showcased shadow boxes in a limited way before this January’s broadcast put the full spotlight on them – and VNVDV’s program. Viewing of the show subsequently generated more than 8,000 hits on Facebook and YouTube, with a wide variety of comments. Burchik used that greater exposure as the impetus to join forces with the VBM staff as a one-stop for veterans.
Volunteers from the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley and the Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley are helping local veterans preserve their military honors.
MOVING PAST THE PAIN Jim Hill of Danville was among the first veterans to have his memory box featured on “Veterans’ Voices.” “I was really proud they showed it,” said Hill. “It was really nice looking.’’ Hill acknowledges that for some veterans, especially those from the Vietnam era, the idea of sharing these relics is not as easy as bringing out a box of old family photos and traveling down memory lane. When a lot of veterans returned “to the world,” as Hill put it, the only thing they wanted to do was take off the uniforms – and the medals – and stuff them in a duffle bag. Vietnam was not a popular war and returning veterans felt the brunt of a nation’s ire. And the last thing veterans wanted was more attention brought upon themselves. But as the decades passed, healing took place and Americans gained a new perspective. “The country started thanking us, and that was the impetus for people to come out,” Hill said. “It helped me to remember more and start thinking about some of the details that were stored back in my mind,” he continued. “It helped me to remember and to become
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proud of that time.” So like many of his peers, Hill took that next step and opened his box. EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION
Fellow Vietnam veteran and Alamo resident Bill Green echoed Hill’s thoughts. His family was instrumental in bringing forth his various commendations and the stories each told. “It was my children who wanted to see them and learn about them,” said Green, whose eyes began to well up. In turn, Green took more pride in them – understanding these pieces of history were bigger than himself. Green and Hill spoke of two experiences a veteran can have when creating a shadow box. One, it’s a means to go back and recognize the service he or she performed and “you find it is healthy.” At the same time, Hill noted, it creates a legacy “so it is easier (for my children) to remember my service.” “It is something that should be maintained for future generations to learn from,” Green added. “It is a piece of history.” For more information, visit vnvdv.org.
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May 20, 2022
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page 5
Proven Leadership When Contra Costa Needs It Most The pandemic has exacerbated chronic problems and strained budgets for families and governments, alike. As a former Mayor, Vice Mayor, and Planning Commission Chair, Councilmember Carlyn Obringer has the experience Contra Costa County needs to set a successful course for the future. ON JUNE 7th PLEASE VOTE FOR
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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
May 20, 2022
L ette r t o t h e E d i t or Renters need relief from harassment I‘ve been the pastor at St. Bonaventure Parish for two years now. During that time, I’ve worked with renters throughout our community. Recently, I’ve heard troubling stories of harassment from landlords. One landlord threatened their tenant with a gun. Another broke into their tenant’s home in the night, screaming obscenities and ransacking a
dresser for rent money. The problem is widespread. In fact, a survey of Concord tenants by the East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy found 16% experienced landlord harassment— especially distressing because the vast majority were women with children. Working with community and tenant groups, I’ve urged the Concord city council to adopt an ordinance to stop this harassment. That ordinance, advanced by the council’s
housing committee in March, will go before the full city council soon. I call on the city council to pass this law. A handful of offenders repeatedly harass their tenants. Without this ordinance, those few are unlikely to change their behavior. I urge you to write to the city council to support the new ordinance. Thank you. — Fr. Lawrence D’Anjou, Pastor at St. Bonaventure Parish
KidFest, from page 1
Please let our advertisers know you saw them in the Pioneer. To advertise, call 925.672.0500
every day at 11:30, 1:30 and 3:30. Bugs Galore and More includes the opportunity to see reptiles, exotic insects and bugs up close. Attendees can also dig for dinosaur bones there. Kid’s Town America has 10 activity stations for youngsters to play at. KidFest offers an all-day, all-ride wristband to be used on all the thrilling rides such as Dragon Wagon roller coaster, Bungee Spider Jump, Water Ballerz, giant slide, Ferris wheel, petting zoo, pony rides, Stars ‘n Stripes train and more. All-day KidFest discounted ride wristbands are now on sale through Eventbrite. There is an eclectic Food Court, arts and crafts and exhibitor booths in the KidFest Marketplace surrounding the all-new Marketplace Pavilion sponsored by Stanford Children’s Health where PAW Patrol characters Chase and Skye, and Curious George will meet their fans every hour for all three days. Admission is just $7 with a donation of canned food to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano or $8 without donation to the Food Bank. Babies under 24 months and seniors 65+ are free.
Photo courtesy of Nerveless Nocks and Bay Area KidFest
The Nerveless Nocks Legendary All American Classic Thrill and Stunt Show is coming to KidFest direct from Florida. The Nock Family has been thrilling audiences with daredevil feats for decades. They have three shows every day at KidFest starting at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.
Proceeds from the 31st Bay Area KidFest benefit local educational, health and sports non-profit groups. KidFest continues for the 26th year as one of the major annual donor events for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. KidFest has donated over $85,000 in cash since 2010 to local educational, health, arts and sports programs and has collected over 125,000 pounds of food for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. KidFest is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Memo-
rial Day Monday. KidFest is at Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant St. in downtown Concord, just off Highway 242. On-site vehicle parking is $5 with plenty of free street parking around the festival site. Current state and county health regulations do not require KidFest attendees to wear face masks for the outdoor festival. Anyone wishing to wear a face covering is encouraged to do so. For more information and schedule updates visit the KidFest website KidFestConcord.com
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May 20, 2022
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA AND 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, Karen Jenkins, Kara Navolio, Pamela Michaels, David Scholz,
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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 6200 Center St. Suite F, Clayton, CA 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. To guarantee Pioneer every month, please go to our website and SUBSCRIBE. ADVERTISING Advertising rates and circulation maps are posted at www.pioneerpublishers.com or call (925) 672-0500.
Directory of Advertisers All phone numbers 925 area code Financial, Insurance and Legal Services State-Farm, Tim McGallian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2300 Elections Allen, Debora . . . . . . . . . . . .CommonSense4CoCo.com Carlson, Ken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .KenCarlsonVote.com East Bay Action . . . . . . . .EastBayAction.org/contracosta Garza, Roxanne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .RoxanneGarza.org Kramer, Gus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .guskramer.com Livingston, David . . . . . . . . . . . . . .livingston4sheriff.com Obringer, Carlyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .carlynobringer.com Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Home and Garden Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 R&M Pool, Patio, Gift & Garden . . . . . . . . . . . .627-0207 Safe at Home, Inspection Service . . . . . . . . . . .318-1440 Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-5609 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Whit’s Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-2669
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Chamber, MDUSD and Sunvalley partner for student Digital Art Showcase Center agreed to host printed displays featuring student artwork. The showcase was placed on hold in 2020 due to the pandemic but was reintroduced as local guidelines began to lift and the community was more comfortable going out. New Sunvalley general manager Luther Daniel and his team welcomed the idea to MELISSA REA move forward with the showCHAMBER OF case and morphed the idea to a modern showcase, displaying COMMERCE the artwork digitally throughThe Concord Chamber of out the shopping center. This Commerce has partnered with opened up options to not only the Mt. Diablo Unified School photography and stills, but District (MDUSD) for a few also to digital animation. decades as a way to invest in Visitors can view hundreds the future workforce, prepar- of pieces from students until ing students to become May 25. A scavenger hunt employees and help further incorporated into the showtheir careers. case offers clues of where the The chamber sits as the next display is located, foladvisory industry partner for lowed by a contest where you the Art & Digital Media Path- have to visit each display for way and is a member of the the answers. For the first clue, Mt. Diablo Business Educavisit https://www.concordtion Alliance. As the industry chamber.com/mdusd-studentpartner, the chamber works art-showcase-enter-to-win. with teachers from four high A May 9 reception brought schools with courses in the together students, parents, pathway – College Park, Con- MDUSD staff and the busicord High, Mt. Diablo and ness community to celebrate Northgate. the work and dedication from The idea of showcasing the students. It is truly impresstudent art began in 2019, sive what these students crewhen Sunvalley Shopping ate, from photographs turned
into cartoons to learning how to make eyes blink. The Concord Chamber of Commerce also held the May Business After Hours Mixer at Sunvalley Shopping Center’s Food Court to help wrap up the showcase and bring the businesses to the center to enjoy the artwork. Participants sampled items from various Food Court tenants, including Artesanal Grill, Burger Joint, iSlice, Koko Chicken and Plus 82 Korean BBQ. For more information regarding the Concord Chamber of Commerce, call 925-685-1181, visit www.concordchamber.com, or stop by the office at 2280 Diamond Blvd., Suite 200, in Concord.
MDUSD Superintendent Adam Clark spoke at a May 9 reception honoring the student artists.
Lynn Koellermeier
This digital photograph from Z.H. of Concord High is part of the student showcase at Sunvalley Shopping Center.
To help fight crime, Concord PD wants residents to register security cameras KAREN JENKINS Correspondent
The Police Department is asking residents to voluntarily register their home or business security cameras to create a map of locations with private video surveillance that could help solve crimes. The police could contact people who register in the event of a crime in their area. Such a request to share video is common but takes longer without a registry. Currently, police use the labor-intensive method of “neighborhood canvassing,” a process of “walking and knocking door-to-door, checking with residents to see if they have cameras and if they recorded an incident or person,” according to the department. Knowing in advance where cameras are located could save time and fight crime, police say.
“Many residents and business owners currently operate security systems which could aid in criminal investigations, and we have had great success from community members who have supported investigations by providing us with footage from their security systems.” Registration in the Community Electronic Eye (CEE) program is free and can be completed quickly on the department’s website, where information is posted in English and Spanish. A resident may cancel participation in the registry at any time. Residents the Pioneer spoke with had mixed reactions to the program. “We have a video system, and we feel comfortable telling Concord Police Department,” said Laurie Semple said. While Leanne DeBellaO’Neill says she supports community crime-fighting, she likely wouldn’t register.
“Having the footage when they need it would be nice in helping with crimes, but we have cameras in our home,” DeBellaO’Neill said. “How would we know those weren’t being accessed? Or what if there was someone corrupt working the database, snooping on people and their homes? What if someone used that info to break into a house, keeping an eye on if the owners were home or not? There are a lot of unknowns to how people would access our personal lives.” Laura Nakamura said that, in general, she supports “community partnership with the police to deter, reduce and prosecute crime.” But she urges residents to understand their rights before signing up for CEE. “Surveillance cameras may help the public feel safer, based on the belief that they will deter crime. But the reality isn’t quite that simple,” said Nakamura,
who is also a Concord City Council candidate. “Residents who register their cameras under the Community Electronic Eye should carefully consider at least a couple of aspects of doing so: privacy, for one, and also that law enforcement can access footage under due process even if the homeowner doesn’t wish to provide it.” Concord’s program description appears similar to those in the nearby cities of Pleasant Hill, Berkeley and Oakley. Like those departments state on their public websites, the Concord PD site says that “security camera information simply lets us know that you may be willing to share your camera’s footage. Registering does not provide the Concord Police Department with direct access to your camera.” For more information, visit https://cityofconcord.org and click on the Community Camera Registry link.
Costa Irrigation District and local storage bolstered by the 160,000-acre foot Los Vaqueros Reservoir. “The fourth leg of that (supply chain) is the call for conservation,” Allen said. “That’s how we’re planning how much water we’ll need to have available for customers to use this year.” The district built the Los Vaqueros Reservoir in the late 1990s and expanded it in 2012.
As of late April, it was at about 60% capacity. “The drought benefits of water stored in Los Vaqueros really speaks to the forwarding thinking of our board, our employees and our customers in the importance of investing in local storage,” Allen told the Pioneer.
Real Estate, Housing and Mortgage Services EBASE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .workingeastbay.org French, Lynne – Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8787 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 McDougall, Kelly – Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-0448 Moore, Wendy – Berkshire Hathaway . . . . . . . .570-5187 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . .567-6170 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . .672-4433 Restaurants and Events Concord Music and Market . . . . . . . . .CityofConcord.org Groveside Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0310 Pleasant Hill Art and Wine . . .PleasantHillChamber.com Walnut Creek Art & Wine . . . . . .ArtWineFestivalWC.com Senior Services & Hospice Care Hope Hospice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .829-8770 Services, Other ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 County Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-7500 KidFest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .KidFestConcord.org Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-9113 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 PH Chamber of Commerce . . .PleasantHillChamber.com Shopping Harvest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-2305
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Water, from page 1 DROUGHT SURCHARGE
a hazard to health and safety. • Using potable water in a CCWD will hold a public non-recirculating fountain. hearing on June 15 to review a drought surcharge of up to The board added six new 15% effective July 1. For the restrictions, including not servaverage customer using 260 ing drinking water other than gallons a day, it would amount upon request in restaurants to about 28 cents a day. and no watering of new “The intent of the sur- homes/buildings that is not charge is to help cover the cost drip or microspray. and impact of the drought,” Allen said the district has said CCWD spokesperson Jen- not issued any fines to date. nifer Allen. “And if we’re “When we receive phone calls heading into a multi-year from the community or drought, we’re planning ahead employees that notice a wastefor that, too.” ful use, we contact that user The new rules are in addi- promptly and let them know tion to water waste prohibi- they need to address the violations the district established in tion.” 2015, including: • Causing excess water runTHE VALUE OF LOS VAQUEROS off. According to a staff • Watering during and up to report, CCWD “has sufficient 48 hours after rainfall. • Watering between 9 a.m. supply to meet efficient customer demands this year.” and 5 p.m. • Using a hose without a shut- That supply includes a conoff valve to wash a vehicle. tract allocation from the Cen• Washing hardscapes, unless tral Valley Project, water transfailure to do so would create fer from the East Contra PENDING
For water conservation tips as well as information on rebate programs, visit ccwater.com/drought.
Page 8
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
May 20, 2022
High drama in County sheriff, assessor races in his career in law enforcement, something he’s wanted to do since he was 7 years old. “I’ve been a detective, a patrol officer, a trainer, an SME (Subject Matter Expert) on the use of force by law enforcement, as well as president of the Richmond Police Officer’s Association and member of a statewide PEGGY SPEAR task force on POAs,” he says. “I’ve seen policing ELECTION 2022 from the ground up, and I If you look closely at Con- know what needs to change in our sheriff ’s department: tra Costa Sheriff David Livingston via Zoom at the pub- good leadership.” lic safety candidates’ debate LIVINGSTON STANDS two weeks ago, you can see a ON HIS RECORD little bit of Clint Eastwood in It is that leadership, howhis eyes. ever, that Livingston says It’s as if he’s standing on a Therriault is lacking. The curdusty road somewhere in the rent sheriff, an attorney, led county, proclaiming it his terboth the Pleasant Hill and ritory – and he’s not willing to Concord police departments give it up. before being elected sheriff 11 Standing (actually, sitting) years ago. And he says he has across from him is his oppomore to do: He wants to nent, brash newcomer Richimprove the jails, oversee the mond Police Officer Ben recently approved staff Therriault, who wants to increases and implement the “clean up” the sheriff ’s use of body cameras department of alleged corapproved with money from ruption and bring it back to Measure X, something he calls the people through trans“no small task.” parency, new ideas and realThroughout his tenure, he life experience of policing says he is most proud of the streets. expanding the role of deputies in the jails, canceling a controTHERRIAULT TOUTS versial ICE (Immigration and POLICE EXPERIENCE Customs Enforcement) conThe county sheriff – an tract that would have impactelected position, Therriault ed many immigrants in the points out, surprised by so many in the county who did- county and watching violent crimes decrease – although he n’t know that – represents 180,000 residents from Dis- admits that property crimes, like smash-and-grabs at area covery Bay to North Richmond, a rich swath of diver- shopping centers, are on the rise. sity and, unfortunately, He has also added an elder crime. abuse deputy and is planning Therriault, an Iraq war for a state-of-the-art emerveteran, has worn many hats gency operations center.
DAVID LIVINGSTON
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Those are orders as tall as a 10-gallon hat, and Therriault is skeptical that they will proceed in a way that will benefit the public. “Sheriff Livingston is a reactive leader,” he says. “He is not looking at the issues of the day and coming up with long-term solutions. “Community policing is more than just knowing your neighbors, it’s working with businesses, faith-based organizations and residents, and providing solace for them,” Therriault adds. “We can take down the bad guys; it’s just going to take a new way of doing things. I have the experience from all levels of policing to be able to do that.” Meanwhile, Livingston is seen as a stringent supporter of his deputies, even those whose actions have been called into question – such as former deputy Andrew Hall, recently sentenced to six years in prison for using excessive force in the shooting of a mentally ill person in Danville in 2018. He does agree that working with the community at all levels is
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FLOY ANDREWS
BEN THERRIALT
GUS KRAMER
trator who originally allowed it years, including Kramer’s has since resigned – and pos- misconduct and questionable property assessments. These sibly reneged. are all cited on Bay Area Kramer has also accused New Group articles posted the board of breaking the on Andrews’ campaign webBrown Act by discussing his issues in private session, a vio- site. “I can bring new blood, a lation when it comes to new attitude and integrity,” another publicly elected offiA TAXING RACE Andrews says. cial. If the drama of the sher“I am not a racist, and I KRAMER TOUTS iff ’s race is too, well, taxing, am not sexist,” Kramer ‘HIGH STANDARDS’ voters are not getting a break asserts, claiming he has had Kramer in the county assessor’s race. good relationships with (www.guskramer.com) brushes The two candidates couldn’t women and people of all off many of those allegations, appear more different, but the races and backgrounds, prospectacle surrounding the race moting many. He says the law- calling himself “the hardest is just as intriguing. The sher- suit was brought on by dissat- working man in the county.” The personable assessor iff ’s race is not the only isfied employees who were – who says he sits at the HBO-worthy contest in this not promoted. front desk every day to meet critical election. people and help them out – The laundry list of ANDREWS ADVOCATES says he has ignored requests FOR CHANGE endorsements for Contra from county oil companies, Andrews disagrees. Costa County assessor candicities lobbying for more sales “There is a toxic environdate Floy Andrews is as long tax revenue and individuals ment permeating the assesas a CVS receipt. wanting parcel tax reducFrom Sacramento politi- sor’s office” because of Kramer’s “old boy” attitude tions. cians to local governments “I have integrity,” he says. and management style, with and unions, the impressive “I have high standards.” Andrews saying he is even lineup of supporters would Andrews says the race grooming some on his staff make her seem like a shooto take over when he retires. also centers around another in. major factor: bringing the “The Grand Jury stateHowever, that’s of no con21st century into the assesments are salacious,” she cern to current assessor Gus Kramer, who is seeking anoth- says, adding that the testimo- sor’s office, where the main ny is available on her website computer system was develer term. “I don’t want to be oped in 1998 and “upgraded at www.floyforassessor.com beholden to entities who will every year,” Kramer says. want favors,” says the veteran and a matter of public The incumbent uses an record. tax man, whose office was “It only takes one person older system that puts once seen as the Gold Stanrecords on paper, “so we to deadlock a Grand Jury dard in California. case like this,” says the attor- have a paper trail,” he says. But there is more to the “We need physical copies of ney and former litigator. race that is turning this elecmany of these records. And Andrews, a resident of tion into a surprising soap Point Richmond, admits she if one system goes down, opera. does not have a lot of expe- another is always working.” Andrews says that is a KRAMER’S LEGAL BATTLES rience in an assessor’s office, waste of taxpayer money and No race is as unique as but she currently serves on may not be as accurate a systhe assessor’s, however, the county Assessment tem as a tax assessor’s office chiefly because Kramer has Appeals Board. Besides her been in the news lately not law background, she recently needs. “I bring more than a new face to the race,” she due to his tax acumen, but received a degree in ethics says. “I can improve assessbecause he was the subject of from Columbia University a censure and Grand Jury and was CEO of a nonprofit ment for the entire county.” Nothing is sure except trial over alleged racism and coffee roastery in Berkeley. sexual harassment. The court “I have the background, the death and taxes, and this race certainly is a killer. debacle ended in a mistrial, leadership and the ethics to and District Attorney Diana beat Gus Kramer,” she says. Peggy Spear is a journalist and Becton chose not to retry the “I want to right that assessor. ship,” she says of the asses- frequent contributor to the Pioneer. Email questions and comments to Kramer then went back sor’s office, which has been and demanded $325,000 in plagued with accusations for peggy.spear@gmail.com court fees from the Board of Supervisors, spurring a nasty relationship between the two. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram The board has yet to decide whether it will pay, but it’s been reported that it won’t because the county adminisvital to law enforcement. And you can bet those community residents won’t be hiding in a local saloon on June 7, but casting their very important votes for the next Contra Costa County sheriff.
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The e Comm Common om mmo mon on Se S Sense ens nse se V Vo oicce. oic e.
LLaaaw w Enfor orcem emen me en ntt’s Ch Choi hoic ho oic ice. e. Debor ebora’s TTo Top oop Prio riorities: oriti tiess: Rising Risin ng Cr Crimee Hom omel eleessness, ssneess, Peo eopl ople in Cris C Crisis is Fiscal Oversig Oversigh ight and Taxpa a yer Accou ountab tability bilityy Mod Modern odernizing nizinng Loca ocall Governmen nment Hou ousing usingg and annd Econ onomic omic Developmen oppme t Small Business siness Sup upport pporrt TTrransp ansporta portaationn Gridl idlock
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May 20, 2022
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page 9
Mt. Diablo High School’s Natasha Paul named one of four finalists for Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year award JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
Natasha Paul of Mt. Diablo High School is one of four finalists for the 2022-23 Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year award, the Contra Costa County Office of Education announced earlier this month. Besides the Concord teacher, Serina Culleton (Moraga School District, Chavonta Edington (San Ramon Valley Unified School Districtl) and Paula L. Rathert (Walnut Creek School District) were selected from among a pool of 18 district teachers of the year, including Katalina Gallo of MDHS. County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey made the announcements in surprise visits to each of the finalist’s classrooms with the help of their principal and school administration, their families and colleagues.
NATASHA PAUL MT. DIABLO HIGH
“Congratulations to our four 2022-23 Teacher of the Year finalists,” said Mackey. “The four teachers were selected from a talented pool of educators who are all focused on providing an exceptional educational experience for their students, and serve in leadership roles at their school and school district communities. These teachers exemplify what teachers do every day, which is go above and beyond for the
education and well-being of their students.” Two of the four finalists will be chosen Contra Costa County Teachers of the Year. The announcement will be made at the 50th annual Contra Costa County Teachers of the Year celebration at Lesher Center in Walnut Creek on Sept. 22. An English teacher at Mt. Diablo High in Concord, Paul has been teaching for 19 years. She has taught English Language Development for the last six years. After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, she was compelled to leave her corporate job in human resources to become a teacher and return to her alma mater. She co-leads the Architecture, Construction, Manufacturing and Engineering (ACME) Academy, is a Teacher Induction and Support Program mentor and piloted an Equitable Grading Professional Learning Com-
munity last year. CVCHS STUDENTS HONORED Lauren Tidyman of Clayton Valley Charter is one of 34 students from Contra Costa and Alameda counties who have excelled in their Career Technical Education classes and were honored by the Contra Costa County Office of Education at the annual Students of Excellence Awards ceremony. A total of 38 students were nominated to be Students of Excellence and 34 won the award based on recommendations from their teachers. Honored students will each be awarded a certificate of merit and a $300 scholarship. Monetary donations were provided by Chevron, Phillips 66, Veranda and Travis Credit Union. Tidyman won for Honors Civil Engineering and Architecture. Her schoolmate Eric Catalano was nominated for his Introduction to Engineering Design achievements. “Congratulations to this year’s Students of Excellence,” County Superintendent Mackey said. “Your hard work in the Career and Technical Education classes is a launching pad for your future. I also want to thank the businesses that support the CTE classes. That support adds value to the curriculum and gives students in those classes an advantage as they pursue their college and career goals.” Students took classes in diverse fields such as sports medicine, play production, computer science, game design, and careers with children to name a few. BOARD ANNOUNCES 2 NEW MEMBERS Clayton Valley Charter Governing Board announced last week that Dave Cooney and Stephanie Cademartori will join the board as community repre-
Photo courtesy Carondelet High School
Carondelet High’s Engineering for Social Good Class built a tiny house that will soon be home for a farm worker family at Frog Hollow Farm in Brentwood.
sentatives beginning in June. Cooney replaces Alison Bacigalupo, who returned to the school in an administrative position this month. Cademartori fills the position of Katie Dresdow, who recently relocated with her family to Texas. “We’re excited to have Dave and Stephanie join the CVCHS Board,” said board chair Kristy Powell. “Both of these parents exemplify the type of leaders we have here at CVCHS – a strong foundation with our school and staff as well as a relentless commitment to the academic success of all students. Dave and Stephanie bring a united approach, ensuring our students have tremendous opportunities to be well-rounded, with a dedication beyond academics to include character development, athletics, and the arts.” CARONDELET STUDENTS BUILD TINY HOUSE In the spirit of giving back to their community, Carondelet High School’s “Engineering for Social Good” students built a sustainable tiny house for local farm workers in need of housing. The ribbon cutting ceremony for the tiny house was last week.
The Tiny House project is the inaugural activity of the “Engineering for Social Good” class, where 11th and 12th graders at Carondelet built a tiny house on wheels, sized at 20’ x 8’ x 11’, utilizing core design thinking and engineering concepts for this hands-on, community project. Thirty students collaborated on all aspects of the house, including architectural layout, framing, electrical, plumbing, exteriors and more. The tiny house will provide free housing for local farm workers in collaboration with Hijas del Campo (Daughters of the Field), a nonprofit serving the needs of farmworkers in Contra Costa County. “With women grossly underrepresented in engineering, architecture and construction, we wanted to create a class to provide Carondelet students with a rich, hands-on experience in STEM—and make a meaningful difference in our local community at the same time,“ said Chris Walsh, Director of Innovation and leader of the project. Kristina Levesque, math teacher and co-teacher for the
See Schools, page 11
VOTE FOR ROXANNE CARILLO GAR RZA CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISO ORS DISTRICT 4 Roxanne Shares Our Commu unity’s Values. Raised by a public health nurse and union organiz g er, Roxanne has values that run deep around an equitable economy, health care access, quaality schools, safe community, and environmental stewardship. She beelieves Contra Costa County should work fo or everyon ne, not just for o a few.
Roxannee Ensures We Have a Seat at the Tabl a e. In an era of Covid, poli p tical divisiveness, and growing inequality, Roxanne has a track record in her roles as a nonprrof it policy director and as a public health care leadeer of bringing together people from diversee backgrounds, listening, and innovating equitable policies.
Roxannee Fights fo or Fairnesss fo or Us All. Roxanne will work to expand health care access e so we can weather the pandemic; p pass renters’ protections so we all have an affor o dable place to live; and improve neigh hborhood safet e y by funding community and mental health ser vices. e
A NEW N VOICE: OUR VOICE E Roxanne Carillo Garza is a visionar y community leader who w will not settle for businesss as usual on Contra Costa County’s pandemic response, hou using crisis, or community safety. Ad paid for by East Bay Action. Not authoriz zed by y a candidate or a committee controlled by y a candidate.
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May 20, 2022
From the desk of... Camp Concord a community-minded place for fun in the sun Located 175 miles northeast of Concord, a one-of-akind place nestled high in the Sierra bears our name and has been a memorable summer destination for Concord youth and families for more than 54 years. Camp Concord, a resident camp owned by the city of Concord, sits on 29 acres of U.S. Forest Service land between Lake Tahoe and Fall-
en Leaf Lake. It is the legacy of more than 40 local civic groups, private businesses, schools and individuals who worked together to create a unique destination experience for Concord residents. With 29 cabins, a dining hall, playfield, amphitheater and other recreation amenities, Camp Concord is ideal for unplugging, soaking up nature and making new friends.
Clayton survey shows November parcel tax would likely fail
PETER CLOVEN
CLAYTON MAYOR As the City Council continues to discuss the financial challenges that Clayton will face in the coming years, we decided to hire a polling firm to assess residents’ appetite for a tax increase ballot measure in November 2022. On May 3, the polling company presented the data from its research. As suspected, Clayton residents overwhelmingly love our city, police, library and recreation. However, few residents knew of the financial challenges that we face as a city. In fact, the data clearly indicated that any effort to put a tax measure (e.g., parcel, sales, utility, etc.) on the ballot this November would likely fail. Earlier this year, some council members had stated their desire to place a ballot measure this November for a specific “minimal needed” parcel tax to cover our deficit. They believed residents could be convinced of this need before voting day. The hiring of the polling company cost the city $30,000, which was a modest sum paid for by federal America Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. However, had we placed the tax on the ballot in November 2022, like some suggested, it could have cost more than $50,000. In addition, the poll provided valuable additional information for future discussions. The city has been diligent in assessing our financial concerns and has proceeded in a timely manner, given our small staff and the incredible tasks that had been set before them. No time or money was squandered in our efforts. However, the financial cri-
sis remains unresolved. We have seen an increase in expenses (about 4%, soon to be exacerbated by inflation) that outpace relatively stagnant revenue increases (about 2%) on an annual basis. Past councils were aware of these financial challenges and trimmed spending annually to meet available income. Approximately 65% of our General Fund expenditures go toward city staff, including labor costs for police, maintenance and administration. The historic budget trimming has resulted in city staff being paid 20%-30% less than surrounding cities. This has led to challenges in staffing, costs and morale. As a result of the 2021 budget cycle, Councilmember Jeff Wan requested a discussion of a future funding ballot measure and wrote of those financial challenges in various social media outlets in July 2021. Since that time, the city finance director resigned and we hired a new one in October 2021. The city has undergone its annual audit, which discovered challenges related to staffing turnover. In addition, the city received ARPA funding in July, which caused significant staff efforts to comply with council direction to get funding out quickly to residents and businesses in need of financial relief. The city was also busy with the Housing Element, General Fund Reserve Policy discussions and essential worker pay. The staff schedule was full, and our small, dedicated staff worked incredible hours to complete the council’s directions. I appreciate our staff for their valiant efforts. In February 2022, the city received a 10-year financial forecast. It included two scenarios – an “as is” scenario and a wish list scenario for “unmet needs.” Staff and the Budget & Audit committee discussed the unmet needs as items that would allow our city to be ultimately more efficient. The “as is” scenario indicated a deficit in 2023 based on current spending. It’s possible that prior
See Cloven, page 11
Activities include archery, canoeing, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and arts and crafts. Concord youth and families have been enjoying this vacation spot for generations. Camp Concord also hosts youth campers from community-based organizations, including Mt. Diablo Unified School District’s CARES after-school program, the Family Justice Center, First Tee of Contra Costa and Future Leaders of America. These organizations send groups of up to 135 kids ages 9-17 for a week of fun and learning through enrichment activities.
Some of these children are economically disadvantaged and may never have had the opportunity to travel outside of the city. Even though these kids come from different backgrounds, a mutual goal is for each young person to feel welcome. We have introduced a new inclusion policy calling for all youth camps at Camp Concord to support diversity, equity and inclusion. These youth camp weeks are made possible through a unique partnership with the Friends of Camp Concord (FOCC), a nonprofit organization established in 1983. FOCC supports “campership” scholarships for underprivi-
leged children and families. Funds also go toward direct improvements to the facility. Thanks to this valuable partnership, we expect to serve more than 600 youth at our camp this summer. Camp Concord has also become a popular destination for three summer sessions for those “50 & Better.” Although registration fills up quickly, we still have the week of Aug. 29DOMINIC ALIANO Sept. 2 available for those age 50+. Sign up at www.concorCONCORD MAYOR dreg.org. FOCC is also a beneficiary of Every year, the Friends of Camp Concord host a fundrais- the annual “Rock the CASA” ing golf tournament. This year’s charity concert. event will be Monday, Oct. 3, at Crow Canyon Country Club. See Aliano, page 11
Remembering those on the battlefront – and homefront – on Memorial Day at 56, from multiple myeloma. His doctor thought his exposure to toxins in India caused his disease. Thus, he was a casualty of World War II along with those who died at Normandy. I got to know Larry Block when I married his daughter Dawn 27 years ago. A child of the depression, Larry had a hard life in a poor family living on Coney Island. Like many of MICHAEL G. HARRIS his generation, Larry dropped PLEASANT HILL out of high school to fight in World War II. He lied about his MAYOR age and enlisted in the Navy at 17. Why the Navy? He really While Memorial Day is a loved their spiffy uniforms, time to honor those who died serving our country, it’s also an especially the jaunty hat. What Larry didn’t know was that he opportunity to remember all would be ghastly seasick every who served our country in day on board a ship. times of war and peace. Larry served on one of the The significance of Memofirst ships to land at Nagasaki rial Day became abundantly after the atomic bomb was clear to me when I visited dropped. He died a few years Washington D.C.’s famous ago from colon cancer, probaNational Mall a few years ago. bly triggered by his exposure to I was awed by the grandeur radiation at Nagasaki. Like so of the World War II Memorial many others, he too gave his life and its tribute to those who to keep America free. fought in that war, including my My mother never served in father, father-in-law and uncles. the military, but she epitomized I was haunted by the anguish the sacrifice of those who serve on the faces of the GIs on their country in times of war – patrol in the Korean War like so many women of her Memorial. I wept openly as I generation. She raised her son read names on the granite walls while her husband served his of the Vietnam Memorial. country. My father and uncles While on the Mall, I was were serving overseas, so to struck by two overpowering save money, my mother and I emotions: a great sense of sormoved into a small flat with my row for the thousands who lost grandparents, aunts and cousin. their lives defending our counWhat I know about those try and a great sense of pride years was told to me by my for the sacrifices made by those mother before she died a couwho fought to preserve the ple years ago at the age of 102. principles that make our counShe remembered the hardship try great. they endured to make ends Three individuals epitomize meet. It wasn’t easy, but somethe sacrifice of those who serve how she did wonders with her our country. My father was ration book. Keeping families drafted in 1944 when I was together while spouses serve barely 1 year old. He served our country remains challenging most of World War II in a today. remote area of India. CondiWhen Francis Scott Key tions were horrible. No real penned “The Star-Spangled sanitation. Filth everywhere. Banner,” he wrote we were “the While he saw no action, he was land of the free and the home nonetheless a victim of the war. of the brave.” With all due When he came home years respect, I think he got it wrong. later, he was a stranger to me, We are the land of the free having sacrificed the formative because we are the home of the years of my life to serve his brave. country. He died far too young,
Please join the Pleasant Hill community on Memorial Day in honoring all who served our country at home and abroad. Thank them for the sacrifices they made to keep our great
country “the land of the free.” Email questions and comments for Mayor Harris to mharris4ph@gmail.com
Grayson’s bill boosts support for manufacturing ically improving California’s competitiveness. Long-term tax revenue from jobs and investments will more than make up for any one-time revenue loss on the sales of manufacturing equipment. In fact, some economists estimate that the state would receive anywhere from a 2½-1 to 5-1 return on investment. One common misconcepTIM GRAYSON tion that big corporations do 14TH ASSEMBLY all theis manufacturing, when in DISTRICT truth, nearly two-thirds of California manufacturers have less than 25 employees. Today, the California has long been a purchase of needed machinery global hub for innovation and is subject to state sales tax of technology, but over the last two years, our state has attracted 7.25% to 10.75%, making it more difficult to scale up these less than 1% of the country’s types of businesses. As a small manufacturing investments. business owner myself, I know I’m determined to change that’s an incredible range to try that and bring manufacturing investment back to California in to forecast. A more competitive tax order to make “design here, structure helps everyone in this build here” a reality for our state, because we all benefit state’s companies. My bill, AB1951, will create the Califor- when Californians hold manufacturing jobs. When manufacnia Manufacturing Attraction turing grows, it creates opportuand Development Exemption (CA MADE) to eliminate sales nities for the middle class and our economy gets stronger. Our tax on most manufacturing state revenues reap benefits equipment purchases. from an influx of economic Right now, California douactivity. ble-taxes production – with Manufacturing employs 1.3 taxes on both production of million people in California. equipment and the product. Here in the Bay Area, manufacThis places a high cost burden turing supports nearly 300,000 on manufacturers that provide jobs with an average annual good-paying jobs in our comsalary of $88,500. munities and doesn’t allow our While spending time in our economy to grow. community, I’m sure you often By dropping the tax on equipment, the bill aims to increase tax revenues by dramatSee Grayson, page 11
Upgraded renter’s tax credit would bring relief to many
STEVE GLAZER
STATE SENATOR
California’s renter’s tax credit, the state’s most important program to help tenants, has not been increased in more than 40 years. Even as rents have skyrocketed, the credit remains stuck where it was when Jimmy Carter was president: $60 for individuals and $120 for couples. Senate Bill 843, which I authored with more than 50 other members from both parties, would change that.
SB843 would increase the renter’s tax credit and expand access to it. The increased credit would allow individuals to receive $500, while couples and individuals with dependents would get $1,000. That means single parents – who usually need more than one bedroom to house their children – will get just as much as a couple. In addition, Californians would be eligible for the full credit even if that amount
exceeded their income tax liability, since most people also pay sales taxes, utility taxes and other levies. This change would expand access to about one million low-income residents – those who need the help the most. The renter’s tax credit was enacted in 1972 to assist Californians with rent costs. It was increased to $60 for individuals and $120 for couples in 1979, when the statewide average rent was only $862
(adjusted to 2020 dollars). The average statewide rent was $1,614 in 2020, and it has only increased since. In dense urban areas, the rent hikes are far more drastic. Inflation is also forcing Californians to spend more on groceries, gasoline, childcare and more. An increased and expanded tax credit could help many struggling renters not only pay for rent, but other essentials as well. The COVID-19 pandemic
has only worsened the problems renters face. Due to the economic barriers to owning a home, renters are disproportionately more likely to be low income and were more likely to lose their jobs during stayat-home orders. Simply put, homeowners typically have more financial stability than renters and receive numerous tax benefits from the state and
See Glazer, page 11
May 20, 2022
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page 11
Delving into housing market and interest rates LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ANSWERS Q. I am so confused about the housing market and interest rates. Can you clarify? A. The real estate market
and interest rates go hand in hand. My favorite lender, Jay Voorhees of JVM Lending, makes the case for much higher home prices – despite higher interest rates. He quotes MBS Highway founder Barry Habib and famous real estate investor Ken McElroy. Responding to fears of a housing bubble, they all believe that housing prices will double in six years. It’s really all about invento-
Aliano from page 10 Over the past 10 years, city staff has also forged a valuable partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Francisco Domestic Inspections. We are grateful to this group of volunteers who come up to camp each spring to clean cabins, assist with repairs and get the camp ready for the season. Current and former campers also participate in preparing the facility each year. Not many cities can say
they have a beautiful summer camp facility in the mountains. Camp Concord is a special place. We call it the “happiest place on dirt.” To learn how you or your organization can enjoy all Camp Concord offers, visit www.cityofconcord.org/campconcord. Email questions and comments to the mayor at Dominic.Aliano@cityofconcord.org
Cloven from page 10 councils could have addressed this sooner, but the responsibility now lies with this council and future council members to inform our citizens so we can reassess a tax measure. Based on the poll data, a robust public information campaign will be necessary to have any possibility of passing a measure in November 2024 – our next opportunity. Personally, I would like to see a non-partisan group of residents with finance backgrounds serve as a public advisory committee for future discussions and liaison with
our community. What better way to hear of our financial challenges than from a trusted neighbor? The City Council will be discussing our budget shortfalls in the coming two months in order to continue to provide the services that residents expect. Please tune in to council meetings and be a part of the solution. Contact Mayor Peter Cloven at peterc@claytonca.gov or 925673-7320.
ry. Habib is emphatic about the lack of a bubble, comparing the 2008 meltdown to today. He points out that there were 3 million homes for sale in the country in 2008, compared to only 1 million now. And, we have 14 million more households today. According to these experts, we are now short 5.5 million homes and that is why inventory will only get tighter. They believe inflation and higher building costs will make it harder for builders and investors to pencil out cash flow positive
projects, so they will build less. A lot less. Meanwhile, interest rates are back at 2009 levels and are 2% higher than when they bottomed out after COVID hit. Thirty-year fixed-rate mortgages climbed to an average of 5.37%. That is up 1.5% over the last three months. One way to combat the rise in rates is to take an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) instead of a 30- year fixed loan. These are 5- and 7year fixed loans that then go to an ARM that can adjust every six months. Anytime
Schools from page 9 project, said, “The course where students receive academic credit relies heavily on learning-by-doing with performance-based assessments that demonstrate a student’s knowledge and skills in STEM.” By the end of the course,
students developed an engineer’s ability to contribute to social good, feel comfortable with brainstorming, prototyping and testing products, delivering a high-quality product to real world users, and effectively communicat-
Grayson from page 10 cross paths with the hard-working women and men of this industry. Did you know that each manufacturing job supports at least 2.5 others in the economy, with some subsectors, such as aerospace, supporting as many as eight or nine more jobs? That is a lot, but we can do better. California manufacturing was already facing a decline in total employment, but the pandemic has further challenged our manufacturing sector. Since March 2020, manufacturing jobs in California have decreased 4%. Thirty-eight other states have already eliminated the sales tax on manufacturing equipment, and now is the time for Califor-
nia to follow suit. I’m proud that the Assembly Committee on Revenue and Taxation has already passed AB1951 and that it has the support of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association. I’m hopeful that my colleagues will join me in helping manufacturing grow in our state. If you’d like to learn more about this bill or other legislation I’m authoring, please contact my Concord office at 925521-1511.
during that period, you can refinance if rates go down. But despite recent increases, today’s interest isn’t “high” when we look over the last 50 years. In 1971, the average rate was more than 7%; in 1979, it was more than 15%; and in 1981, it was more than 18%, as every Boomer likes to remind the younger generations. Rates hovered in the 10% range throughout the 1980s as the economy boomed. They were in the 8% range for most of the 1990s, dropping below 7% only on rare occasions.
Prior to the 2008 meltdown, rates stayed in the 6%-7% range, only dropping into the 5% range when the economy collapsed. I hope this puts today’s rates in proper perspective. I will end by saying that rates are likely to fall if we have a recession, so today’s rates will probably not last that long.
ing their ideas visually and verbally to an audience. “The Engineering for Social Good class reflects the Carondelet mission of serving their neighbor, all while empowering myself and other young women to explore the STEM field in a non-traditional classroom setting,” said senior Chloe De Smedt.
“We knew going in that this project would require strong partnerships with local business leaders, talented professionals sharing their knowledge as guest teachers, generous donors and sponsors and our broader Carondelet family. We are grateful that our community responded so enthusiastically,” President Annette Eros added.
Lynne French is a Realtor with Compass Real Estate and captain of the Lynne French Team. Contact her at lynne@lynnefrench.com or 925-6728787.
Glazer from page 10
federal government. SB843 will also begin to balance the tax benefits California provides to renters compared to homeowners. This year alone, it is estimated that homeowners will receive $9.3 billion through the three largest tax breaks: the mortgage interest deduction, property tax deduction and partial exclusion of capital gains taxes on the sale of a principal residence. By comparison, renters will receive only $160 Reach Assemblyman Tim Grayson at (925) 521-1511. Visit million through the current renter’s tax credit. or write the district office 2151 With almost half of our Salvio Street, Suite P, Concord, state’s residents being renters, CA 94520
there are steep inequalities between the aid available to homeowners vs. renters. This bill will take important steps in narrowing these inequities to assure renters have a safety net to rely on as well. California is long overdue to increase and expand the renter’s tax credit. I am proud to support our state’s renters with SB843. Steve Glazer is the California State Senator representing the 7th Senate District. If you have questions about this or other topics, you can reach out to him at sd07.senate.ca.gov.
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League, section championships for local teams, athletes JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
With just a couple weeks to go in the 2021-22 high school sports calendar, it is safe for athletes and coaches to say “we’re back.” A full calendar of prep sports will be completed by early June for the first time in three years. De La Salle won North Coast Section championships in lacrosse and swimming and diving and College Park captured the boys NCS volleyball crown. Clayton Valley Charter freshman Molly Gray won the Diablo Athletic League and NCS diving championships with record scores and then was denied a state championship last weekend by .35 of a point to USA National team member Avery Giese of San Juan Hills High. Her score of 597.70 at North Coast shattered the
school record set by Courtney Nelson, a two-time NCAA champion in 1990-91 and a member of the US National Diving Team. De La Salle won the NCS swimming meet by 15 points over nearby rival Northgate 277-262. Their positions revered at the CIF State Meet when the Broncos were fourth and DLS fifth in Clovis. Clayton Valley Charter was 10th at NCS. On the girls side at NCS, Carondelet fell 14 points shy of champ Campolindo with Northgate fifth. The Spartans and Northgate racked up big points for their schools. The Broncos won two of the three relays and DLS the other with both schools finishing in the top three of every relay. De La Salle had individual champions at NCS. Tommy Roder doubled in the 100 backstroke and butterfly
MOLLY GRAY
Clayton Valley Charter Freshman diving champ
while junior Zach Elian won the 100 freestyle. Sophomore Bailey Hartman also took a pair of NCS titles in the 200 and 500 free for Carondelet. Stephanie Iannaccone won the 200 individual medley for the Cougars. Shawn Boland of CVCHS won the 50 and 100 paralympic freestyles with freshman Tyler McMillan of Northgate second in both races. Isabella Barambani of Northgate was second in both girls free races.
Photo courtesy CVCHS golf
Clayton Valley Charter won the Diablo Athletic League Valley Division golf championship earlier this month and qualified for the North Coast Section championships. Coach Rich Villalobos (middle) celebrated with his Ugly Eagles, from left, Peter Campora, Andrew Dombrowski, Henry Sanchez, Villalobos, Ryan Ward, Andrew Karmann and Nicky Conti.
CVCHS advanced to the California State Championships last week in Roseville where they lost by two points to Murrieta Valley. Stunt is a new female sport that incorporates skills derived from cheerleading. There are head-to-head games between two teams who execute skills-based routines in various categories – partner stunts, jumps and tumbling, pyramids and tosses, and team routines. Stunt is also contested in NCAA collegiate sports.
CVCHS SCORE IN STUNT Clayton Valley Charter were undefeated DAL stunt champions and earned the top second at NCS. The Ugly Eagles won games over Alhambra and Heritage to reach the Section finals. No. 2 seed Freedom of Oakley Photo courtesy CVCHS stunt SPARTANS TOP NCS LAX Clayton Valley Charter’s undefeated Diablo Athletic League edged CVCHS 12-11 in the title game to remain as the De La Salle won the East stunt season earned the team the No. 1 seed at North only NCS stunt champion Bay Athletic League champiCoast Section where the Ugly Eagles girls were one point since the sport started Sec- onship in undefeated fashion short of winning a Section title before falling to three-time tion championships in 2018. and, after two easy opening champion Freedom of Oakley 12-11.
wins, squeaked by Vista del Lago of Folsom in the NCS Division I semi-finals and outscored EBAL rival California 14-3 in the NCS lacrosse finals. It was the Spartans second straight NCS title, separated by two years of no section competition due to COVID-19. Overall, the Concord school has won seven of the past 14 NCS tournaments. Northgate qualified for NCS DII but lost its opening game. Carondelet was sixth seed at NCS and toppled No. 3 Oak Ridge in the second round after beating neighboring Northgate in the local school’s first-round game. Second seed San Ramon Valley then elimi-
nated the Cougars in the semifinals. TRACK & FIELD DLS took fourth in the NCS Tri-Valley meet while Clayton Valley Charter boys and girls both finished 11th at the meet. Hurdler Anthony Trucks was the top scorer for DLS, winning the high hurdles and taking second in the 300 meters. His teammate Chukwunonso Udeh was second in the high jump. Clayton Valley Charter’s Mateo Mitchell won the shot put and Zoe Lahanas won the girls 400M. Jessica Chisar of College Park and Mary DeMar-
See League, page B2
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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
May 20, 2022
Four local schools honor Class of 2022 athletes formally committing to college Athlete Spotlight Ashleigh Christy School: Clayton Valley Charter High Grade: Senior Sports: Track, Wrestling
Time and time again, senior Christy has proven that hard work indeed does pay off. While attending Clayton Valley Charter she has participated on both the track and wrestling teams. She wrestled for two years, earning a spot on junior varsity as a freshman, then being promoted to varsity her sophomore year. Hurdler Christy has been on the track team for four years, the last two on the Ugly Eagles varsity. She has earned both rookie of the year and MVP awards while taking part in track. She is now a devoted team captain. Christy currently holds the school’s second fastest time ever for the 100m hurdles and the third fastest mark for the 300m hurdles. She has also been part of two school records on relay teams for the 1600m sprint medley and the shuttle hurdles. She has been able to compete in the prestigious Arcadia and Mount Sac Invitationals track meets and as a soph was in North Coast Section wrestling. Earlier this month she finished second in both hurdles races at the Diablo Athletic League meet and is now involved at NCS. Her favorite part of being an athlete at Clayton Valley is meeting and forming friendships with people through sports. She says that being an athlete has taught her how to be a leader and to have pride in something bigger than herself. Christy’s determination and drive is also shown in the classroom. She currently maintains an unweighted 4.0 GPA and is committed to attend California State University Fullerton as an undecided major. She plans to pursue a degree in kinesiology and becoming a physical therapist. She also hopes to walk on for the CSUF track and field team. Christy notes that she would not have had the success she’s experienced without her hurdles coach Andrew Jackman and head coach Keisha Lowe. The two of them, along with her teammates and family, have pushed her to be the best athlete and person she can be. CVCHS student journalist Katherine Pugh wrote this Spotlight. The Pioneer congratulates Ashleigh 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 great heart for the sport. Email your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight to Sports@PioneerPublishers.com.
JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
Carondelet, Concord, De La Salle and Mt. Diablo high schools celebrated 18 senior student athletes this spring who signed their National Letters of Intent to play their sport starting in the fall at 17 colleges from coast to coast. They were honored along with their families and classmates at recent on campus signing ceremonies. The signees will be playing nine different sports in college including lacrosse, baseball, swimming, water polo, rugby, wrestling, basketball, golf and cross country. Four of the Class of 2022 grads will remain in the Bay Area and 12 of the 18 signees will be at colleges in California. Others are headed to Maryland, Connecticut, Washington, Wisconsin, Kansas and Massachusetts to further their academic and athletic pursuits. Especially noteworthy is that three members of the Mt. Diablo High girls basketball team have now committed to colleges, the first-ever Red Devil female basketball players to do so. Coach Ronnie McGee had all three of his outstanding backcourt players sign after Andheya Aurelio and Mariel Busine inked their NLI to remain teammates at William Jessup University. Yasmine Garrett earlier signed with Evergreen State College in Washington.
Photo courtesy Carondelet Athletics
Five senior athletes from Carondelet recently formalized their college commitments signing National Letters of Intent on the Concord school’s campus. The Cougar senior signees were, from left, Isabella Bravo, Emily Hou, Lucy Lamborn, Aubrey Newton and Savannah Short.
SPRING NLI SIGNEES (SPORT AND COLLEGE): Carondelet Isabella Bravo Lacrosse, California Lutheran) Emily Hou (Golf, Wellesley) Lucy Lamborn (Rugby, Quinnipiac) Aubrey Newton (Water Polo, California Baptist) Savannah Short (Rugby, Mount Saint Mary’s)
Javon Johnson (Basketball, Visit pioneerpublishers.com for CSU Monterey Bay) more photos and information. Jordan Webster (Basketball, UC Merced) Oscar Gomez (Cross Country, Cal Poly SLO) Dominic Besag (Rugby, Saint Mary’s College) John Semany (Basketball, Lawrence University) Cebrian Carter (Volleyball, UC Santa Cruz) Harry Tooze (Baseball, Holy Names) Concord Brendan Ryan (Swimming, Koko Penev (Basketball, Seattle University) Bethany College) De La Salle Mt. Diablo Bobby Cuevas (Wrestling, Andheya Aurelio (BasketMenlo College) ball, William Jessup University) Aidan Roe (Wrestling, Mariel Busine (Basketball, Menlo College) William Jessup University)
Jay Bedecarré
Andheya Aurelio and her parents celebrated at Mt. Diablo High when the Red Devils guard signed her National Letter of Intent for William Jessup University.
Nick Eisenbart
Owner/Service Provider Concord resident
Photo courtesy MDHS girls basketball
Mariel Busine (3rd from left) is the 3rd Mt. Diablo High girls basketball player to make a commitment to play college basketball after the Red Devils historic 2021-22 season.
League, from page B1 tini of Carondelet were second and third in the 800. The NCS Meet of Champions is this weekend in Dublin followed by the CIF Meet a week later in Clovis.
first was in 2008). In DII, De La Salle was the second seed and had a trio of 3-0 victories before losing to No. 1 seed Campolindo in the championship game. Mt. Diablo lost its opening FALCONS CAPTURE game and Northgate lost to Photo courtesy VOLLEYBALL TITLE DLS in the DII semis. Todd Scheid College Park upheld its Berean Christian lost the Division I top seeding, rolling fifth set in the D-IV champi- Phil Mannoni coached his Northgate girls to the North through four opponents to onship game 15-13. Coast Section lacrosse playoffs where they squared off with claim the school’s second NCS rival Carondelet in the Division I first round. Mannoni was in charge of the Cougars junior varsity for four years and is championship in the sport (the
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she plays club hoops for Bay Area Magic. Coach Tarn says, “Lauren is a leader, self-motivator, and overall great person. Her most endearing quality is that she genuinely cares about people. Lauren is most happy when teammates do well.” Looking ahead, Dang would like to attend a four-year college after graduating in spring 2023 to study architecture and engineering. She would also like to compete in hurdles on the collegiate level. She is a member of the YVHS Health Academy and an honor student with a 4.0 GPA, making sure her busy sports schedule does not interfere with her studies.
Athlete Spotlight Lauren Dang Grade: Junior School: Ygnacio Valley High Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field Dang is concluding her junior year at Ygnacio Valley with a bang. She recently set personal best times while taking fifth in the 100-meter hurdles (17.6) and 300m hurdles (51.37) at the Diablo Athletic League championship meet. She is a team captain and MVP for coach Mark Tran’s track and field squad. Her hurdle times qualified her in both events for the North Coast Sec-
tion meet. Not one to sit around waiting for her favorite two events, during this outdoor track and field season Dang also ran 100, 200, 400 and 800 meter races plus competed in the high jump, long jump and discus. In the winter point guard Dang helped YV qualify for the NCS playoffs. She also is a setter and outside hitter for the school volleyball team in the fall. Away from school
The Pioneer congratulates Lauren 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 great heart for the sport. You can email your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight to Sports@PioneerPublishers.com.
Clayton Valley Charter, De La Salle still lead way into baseball playoffs JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter and De La Salle high schools have each held the No. 1 spot in Bay Area high school baseball rankings this season and going into the North Coast Section playoffs this week they are seeded second and third, respectively. NCS play will be a new experience for almost every player in the tournament as spring sports haven’t had Section championships since 2019 when this year’s senior Class of 2022 were freshmen and the current juniors were still in middle school. The Ugly Eagles come into their baseball playoff opener hosting Dublin on a 10-game winning streak that netted them the Diablo Athletic
League Foothill championship. CVCHS (20-4 overall) finished DAL with a 10-2 record. College Park is seeded fifth in DI and hosted Granada of Livermore in their opener. CV and CP split their two DAL games with the Pleasant Hill school finishing one game behind Clayton Valley Charter. De La Salle had a strong case for the top Division I seed until the Spartans lost to Foothill of Pleasanton 4-1 on their home field in the East Bay Athletic League playoff finals last Friday. They barely made to that game by beating San Ramon Valley 10-9 in nine innings in the semi-finals. DLS also lost its final regular-season game to California, although they claimed the top EBAL record at 11-2. The Spartans have won the last four NCS playoffs held
from 2016-2019 and have six titles in the past eight Section tournaments. De La Salle hosted Freedom of Oakley in its first playoff game looking for a fifth consecutive championship. Clayton Valley Charter and De La Salle are in the same half of the DI bracket and would meet in the semi-finals if they both win their first two games this week. CVCHS won its only NCS baseball title (Division II) in 2009. Berean Christian earned the No. 1 seed in Division V and hosted Upper Lake at DVC in the Eagles NCS first-round game. CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER SOFTBALL HEADS INTO PLAYOFFS ON HOT STEAK
Much like their baseball counterparts, Clayton Valley
Charter softball is rolling into NCS on a hot streak. The Ugly Eagles are 17-4 overall with 16 wins in their last 18 games. They are seventh seeds and hosted Berkeley in their opener. Both losses came against Benicia, which cost CVCHS the DAL Foothill softball title. UCLA commit Jordan Woolery as expected is leading the way for Clayton Valley. She is posting slo-pitch softball-type statistics. The senior has eight homeruns while batting .652 with a 1.289 slugging percentage and 1.980 OPS. College Park was third in DAL and travel to Freedom for their NCS opener as the No. 9 seed.
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S p ort s Shorts RECREATION SWIM SEASON
STARTS UP FOR LOCAL TEAMS
The local recreation swim scene will be almost like it was in pre pandemic 2019 this summer with a full slate of meets for local swimmers starting this month and culminating with the 55th Concord City Championships and Contra Costa County meets on the final two weekends of July. Dana Hills Swim Team of Clayton will be looking to defend its first-ever County championship from last summer along with its Concord title while Gehringer Park will look to make it a threepeat in the City B Division. For more information on local recreation swim teams visit their website:
MT. DIABLO HIGH RED DEVIL CLASSIC GOLF RETURNS FOR 25TH EDITION
The Red Devil Golf Committee is holding its 25th golf tournament on Friday, June 24, at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. And organizers of the Mt. Diablo High fund-raising tournament hope it is not the last Red Devil Classic. Three former school athletes have run the tournament since its inception but are stepping away from those duties after this year’s Classic. Doug Schultz, Danny Brown and Ralph Vallis (above from left) are seeking alumni and interested community members to take the reins from them. Registration starts June 24 at 11 a.m., followed by lunch, golf, dinner and raffle/silent auction. Proceeds help academic and athletic programs at Mt. Diablo. Interested participants should contact Lou Adamo at 212-9332 or email at louadamo@gmail.com or Vallis at 825-7593 or email ralphvallis@hotmail.com.
Gehringer Park teamunify.com/recgpg Bishop Estates bishopestates.swimtopia.com Forest Park forestparkpool.net Springwood SpringwoodSwim.com Ygnacio Wood teamunify.com/team/reccvywst/page/home Dana Hills danahillsotters.com Walnut Country www.teamunify.com/Home.jsp?team=reccawcs Vista Diablo Dolphins vddst.swimtopia.com Oakhurst Orcas oakhurstorcas.com
TERRAPINS SWIM TEAM OFFERING SUMMER STROKE AND RACING CLINIC JUNE 13-JULY 21
Terrapins coaches Dan Cottam and Doug Reed will be teaching stroke and racing skills for the summer recreational swimmer from June 13 – July 21. The goal is to help participants improve and refine strokes. The sessions are three weeks long on Tuesdays and Thursdays so as not to interfere with rec team Wednesday evening meets. The sessions are split into eight and unders and 11 and overs age groups at Concord Community Pool. For CONCORD CUP XXVII SOCCER BACK ON THE PITCH more info on Terrapins Summer Swim Clinic and to register visit WITH 96 TEAMS AFTER LONG ABSENCE The 163rd and final game of Concord Cup XXVII almost terrapinswim.com. had to end as it did with two 14U girls soccer teams battling PIONEER WANTS TO PUBLISH through a full game, two overtime periods and then penalty kicks YOUR SPORTS NEWS before a champion was declared and the area’s largest youth socPlease let us know about your sports news, special events, cer tournament concluded late Sunday afternoon. It was espefund raisers, tryouts, signups and accomplishments. Youth cially gratifying for the 96 teams in 16 age brackets for girls and leagues, clubs, schools and adult programs are all welcome to boys coming from as far away as Idaho to finally get a chance to send us a rundown on what you’re doing. Include all the necesplay again in Concord Cup. The tournament was held for the sary details (too much information is better than too little!) and first time in 1994 but had not been able to return since 2019 until your contact information. It is as simple as sending an email to last weekend. Diablo Valley Wolves, Mt. Diablo Soccer and Consports@pioneerpublishers.com. cord AYSO co-sponsor the tournament, which raises funding for the local youth soccer programs. Visit concordcup.com for complete results from this year’s tournament.
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Page B4
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
May 20, 2022
Spicy Joi brings Lao street food to Concord RICHARD EBER
TASTE & TELL Those who crave a taste of the Orient have been grounded by the COVID-19 pandemic for the last few years. But thanks to an abundance of restaurants at Concord’s Park & Shop, flying across the Pacific hasn’t been necessary to enjoy top-flight Asian cuisine. Joining Ohgane Korean BBQ, Shan Shan Low, Kevin’s Noodle House and Tasty Pot is Spicy Joi Banh Mi x Lao Street Food, the newest establishment to grace the shopping center that dates back to the 1950s. Under the ownership of Joi Simmaly, this restaurant started as a pop-up eatery sharing the kitchen at Rockin’ Crawfish prior to moving to its new digs three months ago. Joi earned his stripes at various Thai and Asian fusion eateries prior to launching Spicy Joi. With virtually no Lao food offered in the area, Joi has been anxious to offer a taste of his homeland – which is
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Richard Eber
Owner Joi Simmaly shows off one of the Vietnamese-style sandwiches at Spicy Joi in Concord’s Park & Shop.
surrounded by Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China and Myanmar. “Along with the 49 unique ethnic groups in Laos, our food is greatly influenced by our neighbors yet is much different,” Joi notes. This is most evident with the Thai-inspired Kua Kee Mao (drunken noodles). From Vietnam, he offers Banh Mi sandwiches. Served on a baguette with mayo butter, cucumber, jalapenos, cilantro, pickled carrots and daikon, they are not to be missed. Fillings include tofu, BBQ pork, roasted chicken or Lao sausage. Joi flavors the house-made sausage with three kinds of
onions, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass and red peppers. It comes in mild and spicy, but I prefer the spicy one. He also concocts his own fish sauce, which is less pungent than what is produced in Vietnam. The land-locked Laos lacks seafood in its native cuisine, with the exception of river fish and a freshwater shrimp that lives in the rice paddies. With so many fresh vegetables to select from in the fields of Laos, Spicy Joi features several Asian-style salads seldom found in our area. The Tum Makhoung (Lao-style papaya salad) offers complex ingredients along with a
ASK
THE
EXPERT
With summer on the way, it’s time to get your home ready for the warmest season of the year.
Although the restaurant has an attractive sweets menu, it is fun to stop next door at Uji Time Dessert. This popular Japanese franchise offers a wide array of slushes, matcha soft Asian ice cream, mochi and other tasty treats especially aimed at the younger market. If black sesame, sakura, rose strawberry and other unique flavors served in a fish-shaped cone don’t float your boat, the Taiwaneseinspired 85 Degrees Bakery & Café can be found close by. They serve cupcakes, whole cakes, parfaits and dessert items catering to Asian tastes.
In general, 85 Degrees’ baked goods are not overly sweet and provide a satisfying culinary experience that pairs well with Spicy Joi and the many other great Asian restaurants that make Park & Shop a destination to bring the Far East to Concord’s front door. Spicy Joi is at 1687 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Call 925787-7508 or visit www.spicyjoibanhmi.com for more information. Rich Eber is a local journalist and long time resident of Concord. He covers topics from politics to gourmet food. Contact him at rjerje@pacbell.net
Enjoy sweet cherries from third-generation Gotelli & Sons
DEBRA MORRIS
FARMERS MARKET
The excitement is building for California’s cherry season as customers impatiently wait for them to appear at local farmers markets. The season for sweet cherries is short, usually May to June, but they are well worth the wait. With so many varieties available at your farmers market that are not found elsewhere, I recommend stocking up for spring salads, Start by cleaning the grill change the setting on ceiling desserts, jams/preserves, before the first backyard barbe- fans to counterclockwise to sauces and freezing for later cue. Spray degreaser onto the push the air down. Then use. metal grate and let sit 5-10 min- remember to set them back in At the Concord Farmers utes. Then use a wire brush to October. Market, you’ll find more than scrub. When you see bare To prepare for the extreme a dozen varieties of Califormetal, your grill is clean. Finally, heat of July and August, check nia sweet cherries from let the grill “cook” on high with weatherstripping around winGotelli & Sons Farm. This the lid closed 20-30 minutes to dows and doors and cover any family-run business began burn off any remaining residue. windows that receive morning when patriarch Joe Gotelli This is also a great time to or afternoon sun. emigrated from Italy and With the rains away for planted cherries along the months, it’s the perfect season Calaveras River near Stockfor exterior projects. New roof? ton in the 1920s. See “Ask rt” Landscaping? Other major The farm now represents the Expe repairs? You should be in the e three generations who run the g a p this clear for a few months of dry operation. Joe’s sons Al and weather. Del expanded beyond the iniI’m looking forward to bar- tial acreage. In 1954, in partbecues and backyard parties all nership with John and Mel summer. It sure was great seeOneto, the brothers formed ing so many of you at the last Oneto-Gotelli Packing. They couple of concerts. now have more than 300 acres Scott Denslow is the owner of in Stockton and Acampo. Safe at Home Inspection Service. Drew Rotner married into He is an InterNACHI and the Gotelli family and attends ASHI certified inspector who has farmers markets while contin73+ five-star ratings on Yelp. uing to work the orchards. Contact him at scott@safeat“This year’s early rain brought homellc.com. For more info visit some relief to drought-strickwww.safeathomellc.com. en areas of California, but we
Prepare your home – and barbecue – for summer SCOTT DENSLOW
strong, padek-flavored dressing. Also noteworthy are the Tum Maktang (spicy cucumber salad) and the Nam Khao (crispy coconut salad) with cured pork. These items can be consumed as a main course, although I find it best to split them as the flavors are intense. A slightly sweet sticky rice provides a balance for many of Spicy Joi’s flavorful dishes. Pork also comes up on the menu in many forms, including barbecued, minced, cured, jerky and the belly. When dipped into fish sauce, culinary euphoria is close at hand.
Customers seek out Gotelli & Sons’ cherries at local farmers markets.
wish there had been more,” he noted. Late rains can cause cracking and cosmetic defects in cherries already formed, while winds can destroy blossoms so cherries cannot form. This hardship faced by many cherry growers this year serves as a reminder that we are at the mercy of Mother Nature. It requires patience, vigilance and hard work to bring in a successful and abundant crop. Pruning, watering and fertilizing goes on throughout the year for a harvest that brings daily pickings for only two or three months. “We pick our cherries by hand on a daily basis because the individual cherries in a cluster ripen at different rates and then immediately put them into cold storage until they are loaded on the truck for the day at the market. This ensures high quality for our customers,” said Shelby, one
of the Gotelli daughters now working at the orchard. Missy Gotelli, who runs day-to-day farm operations, is always looking for ways to improve the quality of their cherries and is pleased that customers come back each year to enjoy their cherries. Look for the popular Brooks and Bings to arrive at the market’s red and white tent first, then Rainiers and other varieties follow. Visit pcfma.org to watch our video on Gotelli Farms. GRANDMA HARVEY’S CHERRY COBBLER (From Gotelli & Sons Farms’ grandmother) ¾ c. sugar 3 T melted butter 1 c. flour ¼ tsp. salt 1 tsp. baking powder
See Farmers, pg B5
May means the best of spring is starting to meet summer seasonal fruits and vetables at the farmers’ market! Be on the lookout for cherries, plump and delicious first-of-the-season stone-fruit, and soon tomatoes and peppers. Find authentic pre-packaged sauces & sides, a variety of goods from artisan eateries, and some of the best ready-to-eat lunch options around! For list of farmers attending each week, visit: pcfma.org/Concord Text "concord" to 855-272-3276 to join the Concord Farmers' Market text message club and stay up to date on what's new each week! By texting you agree to receive promotional messages from the Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association.
USE YOUR CALFRESH/EBT CARD WE'LL MATCH YOUR PURCHASE UP TO $10! Find out more at: pcfma.org/market-match CONCORDFARMERSMARKET
May 20, 2022
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page B5
Opt for new installations that are water-wise lent hillside installation. Oleander is poisonous and should not be used anywhere near horses. Most oleander grows 6-10 feet tall and wide. Some petite selections reach only 3-4 feet tall and wide, making them excellent additions to property lines and as fence covers.
Woolly Blue Curls flowers are native to California, extending from Monterey to Baja California, and have been growing wild since ancient times.
Gardening during a drought can still be rewarding and beautiful. There are many perennials, shrubs, ornamental grasses and trees for folks to install that will improve the appeal of their landscapes, all while using less water. Calandrinia spectabilis is a spectacular, shrubby succulent with light blue-gray foliage and bright magenta-purple flowers that line 24-inch stalks. This evergreen perennial produces an abundance of flowers from mid-spring ’til frost. Calandrinia tolerates full sun, requiring a minimum of six hours a day to be productive. It can handle reflective
heat from stone and is tidy enough to plant near a swimming pool. OLEANDER IS BACK IN FASHION
Oleander has been a bad word in the nursery for decades, but it has had a resurgence of interest. Gardeners recognize that this evergreen shrub grows quickly, keeps its leaves and has showy flowers all growing season long. Oleander has flowers of cherry red, medium pink, coral or white. In the mornings, the fragrance of the blossoms is sweet. Oleander makes a sturdy privacy screen and is an excel-
GOING FULL CIRCLE Verbena lilacina ‘de la Mina’ is a California native plant that anyone can grow. This wispy perennial naturally grows in a round manner, reaching 2-3 feet tall and wide. The foliage is delicate looking, but the plant is tough as nails. Lavender flowers appear late April through August. This perennial is butterfly and bee friendly. Woolly Blue Curls is another California native perennial that’s easy to establish and grow. Maturing to 3-5 feet tall and wide, it loves full sun and requires well-drained soil. Install Woolly Blue Curls on a berm or hillside. The flower is deep purple, and the long stamens of the bloom add interest. This selection will also attract hummingbirds. Those who like the desert/cactus look will admire Hesperaloe parviflora ‘Brakelights.’ This evergreen has structure to its foliage and grows almost completely circular in shape. The fronds are blue-gray, with curly, white “hairs” that add more detail. During the spring and
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
summer, stalks of rosy-red flowers spike 3-4 feet up from the center of the plant. This evergreen gives the landscape an ornamental grass feeling as well as flower interest.
ant tree choices. Fruitless olives are available in standard shapes and multi-trunk. They would be your best choices for providing shade. If you need vertical interest in the landscape, consider a Desert Palo Verde. This semi-evergreen tree has bright green branches and leaves. From middle spring through middle summer, tiny yellow blossoms cover this ornamental tree. Consider the blossoms when installing as they would be messy near a pool. Weeping Acacia looks great in a large container for an interesting backdrop or as a focal point installation.
WATER-SAVING TIPS To keep your existing DROUGHT-TOLERANT TREES plants happy during the hot, Fruitless olive trees, Desert dry summer months, mulch Palo Verde and Weeping Acaevery inch of bare soil you cia make great drought-toler-
nts
Hydrangea pla
Off % 20
Train your dog to make bath time more soothing
see. Apply a thick layer of ground mulch mixed with chicken manure. You can find products like this in bags. Once spread, top with bark – shredded, micro, medium, whatever you like. The layers provide nutrients, help ground moisture from evaporating and keep roots shaded. Another water saver is to keep your grass taller. Do not mow your lawn weekly. (My own HOA should read that line.) Also, get a moisture meter to help eliminate some watering days. Soil can look dry, but deep down the roots may still be moist. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. You can contact her with questions or comments by email at gardengirl94517@yahoo.com
R&M is the place for • Sales, repairs & supplies of all pool equipment • Extensive collections of perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs, roses & houseplants • Premium potting soils & conditioners, decorative bark & mulch • Doughboy swimming pool dealer for 30+ years
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STEPHANIE ZABLAH-KRUGER
BEYOND
THE
LEASH
Dogs love routine. They feel safe and secure when they know what to expect in their lives. This is why bath time can be so stressful for some dogs – it’s a new experience they don’t understand. But there are ways to train your dog to love bath time. To help reduce anxiety, begin this training from a young age. The key is to make it a positive experience from the start. Give your dog treats and praise while they are in the bathtub. Let them explore the
A calm atmosphere and proper training can help even anxious dogs enjoy bath time.
tub and get used to the idea of being in there. When you first start bathing your dog, keep the sessions short so they don’t get overwhelmed. Slowly increase the length of bath time as your dog gets more comfortable with the process. Soothing words and a calm voice also will help relax your dog. Provide a non-slip surface in the bath area because sliding around will increase anxiety. Finally, make sure the water isn’t too hot or cold – you want your dog to be comfortable during the bath. If your dog is afraid of baths, try using a shower ½ c. milk instead. 2 c. or more pitted cherries Go slow for dogs who are 1 c. sugar 1 T cornstarch 1 c. boiling water
Farmers,
from page B4
fearful. While you work on desensitizing your dog, use a waterless shampoo so you can clean at a leisurely pace. Start with training them to willingly go into the bath area. Briefly turn on the water. After turning it off, let them have a “puppy party.” This can help them build confidence and choose to willingly go in next time. With proper training, your dog will come to love bath time. The experience will be something to look forward to instead of dread. You can contact Stephanie at cooperativecaretraining@gmail.com or 510-408-7162. Visit the website cooperativecaretraining.com for more information.
Preheat oven to 350. Place cherries in the bottom of a 9-inch square pan. Mix ¾ c. sugar, butter, flour, salt, baking powder and milk into a loose dough. Spread dough over cherries. Combine 1 c. sugar and cornstarch. Stir in boiling water. Pour mixture over dough. Bake 45 minutes. Serve warm.
Cooperative Care
The Concord Farmers Market is in Todos Santos Plaza Tuesdays & Thursdays. See ad page B4 for hours.
when you schedule an appointment through the website 510-408-7162
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Music & Marke t M
CO N C E R T C CON SER RII ES
T h u r sday e v e nii n g s To d os Sa n tos P l a z a J u N E 2 – s e pte m b e r 2 9 6 :3 0 – 8 p.m . m. ci t yo f c on c or r d.or or g
C NC E RT LIN E U P CO Ju N E 2
AU G U ST 4
Gator Nation
Carlos Reyes
Ju N E 9
AU G U ST 1 1
The Bell Brotherrs
Ju N E 1 6
The KillBillies Quattro with Mel Bearns
Diablo Symphon ny
AU G U ST 1 8
Ju N E 23
Matchbox Twenty Too
Fleetwood Mask
AU G U ST 2 5
Ju N E 3 0
Zepparella
Orquesta Borinq quen
S E P TE M B E R 1
J u LY 7 Aja Vu
The New Frantics Garrageland Rodeo
J u LY 1 4
S E P TE M B E R 8
loca l ba n ds n ig ht
loc ca a l b a n d s n ig h t
George! starring Nick Bold
Fast Times
J u LY 2 1
S E P TE M B E R 1 5
loc ca a l b a n d s n ig h t
Mitch Polzak & The Royal Deuces The Greasy Gillss
Steve Snyder’s Big Band
J u LY 2 8
Midn d ight Sun
David Martin’s House Party
S E P TE M B E R 2 9
S E P TE M B E R 2 2
House of Floyd
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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
May 20, 2022
Parenting through bad behavior takes unity cannot see how problematic this behavior is and how it affects our two other children. She has had 12 years to do it her way, and I am done watching this train wreck. Our daughter is entering her teen years, DOMINIQUE KING and I can only see the problem worsening. How LEAN IN can I get my wife to do WITH LOVE things my way? – Colton A. Let me start by saying Q. My wife had a trauthat nothing I write is to matic childhood, and it take the place of a licensed negatively affects how she professional. parents our children – Colton, I can feel the especially our daughter. steam coming off your Our daughter is spoiled, words. Raising kids in a manipulative and emotionhome with different parentally explosive. My wife
ing styles and a lack of unity creates a rift that is felt throughout the house. Along with a parental battle, a child may grab power in a third direction to create his or her own structure. As a child experiences success in dividing the power dynamics three ways, it becomes increasingly difficult to take away the child’s perceived control. I understand your frustration and disappointment with your daughter’s behavior. However, you can’t resolve the issues by demanding your wife do things your way. Instead of taking over, the effort should be to come together. Outside of therapy, which I highly recommend, you can do a few things.
Admit defeat as a team. You both must accept accountability and acknowledge that your wife’s solo approach to parenting failed while you willingly relinquished power. Your daughter saw a weak spot in your relationship and has capitalized on it. Unfortunately, it happens to parents more often than we would like to admit. If you can take accountability, you can focus on changing your family’s situation instead of placing blame. Become a student of parenting styles. Parenting doesn’t come with a handbook. However, there is a plethora of information from trained professionals. Dive into learning about parenting styles, how children respond
“Wonder Dogs” is both memoir and business, which might make readers think the book is going to cover some aspect of dog breeding – until they see the words above the title: “True Stories of Extraordinary Assistance Dogs.” Readers may not be as familiar with the training of KIKU JOHNSON assistance dogs as with guide ALL THE COLORS dogs. “Wonder Dogs” is a book that makes me wish I was still working as a bookcorporated Contra Costa seller. I could sell the heck out County and Antioch, have gone further. Recognizing that of Maureen Maurer’s story of how she and her husband creflavors are only part of the ated Assistance Dogs of problem, these communities have stopped the sale of all e- Hawaii. As a child, Maurer suffered cigarettes, required minimum from asthma and allergies. She prices and pack sizes, and limalso loved dogs and prayed ited the density of tobacco that someday she’d be able to outlets. talk to animals like Dr. DoolitConcord recently deprioritle. Her prayers were answered tized taking action to stop when she was given a puppy, a sales of vape products and toy poodle with hair that was reduce underage youth tobachypoallergic and safe for her. co sales, despite recent policy That puppy was the author’s adoptions by Antioch, Pleasintroduction to dog training ant Hill, Walnut Creek and unincorporated Contra Costa County that have begun to tackle the problem in those communities. Seven of 19 stores visited in Concord by state enforcement agents in 2018 sold tobacco to an underage decoy, and two-thirds of MDUSD juniors think it’s “easy” to get vape products. One vape device sold at a store across the street from Olympic High School conCAROL LONGSHORE tains 400 cigarettes worth of YESTERYEAR nicotine. Cheap cigarillos are also a big part of the problem I had the honor of sitting and are the second most popwith three board members of ular tobacco product after the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail vapes among underage youth. Ride Association to learn about They are cheaper than candy the organization. and sold in Concord for as litJeannine O’Neill, vice presitle as five for 99 cents. dent; Chris Barnhart, treasurer; Californians will be voting and Tracey Mattson, secretary; in November on whether to taught me all about the associastop the sale of some flavored tion, which was formed in tobacco, but even if the law 1941. takes effect, it will not stop Ray Walsh and George the sale of vape devices or Smith were enthusiastic about a cheap cigarillos, nor illegal Sierra Nevada competition trail sales to underage Concord ride they had taken part in and youth. were disappointed when they We can appeal to our city learned there was not another councils, continue to educate one planned. On their way ourselves of the impacts and home to Concord, they dispervasiveness of tobacco advertising and access, recog- cussed their unique experience and decided that Concord was a nize which of our marginalperfect place for a similar comized communities are most targeted and at risk, and vote. petition. Back then, many residents Check out the education of Concord kept horses in their through LGBTQ Minus backyards. Many of them were Tobacco for more info at also Chamber of Commerce https://www.lgbtqminustomembers. George and Ray bacco.org/. introduced the idea of having a competitive trail race from ConKiku Johnson is Rainbow cord to Mount Diablo State Community Center’s executive Park. The chamber was delightdirector. As a man of color and trans experience, Kiku has invested ed and sponsored the first offihis life engaging and elevating youth cial competitive trail ride. Eighteen participants rode and adult voices of marginalized along Clayton Road, which intersectional identities. Send became stretches of vineyards questions and comments to and then walnut, pear and kiku@rainbowcc.org. almond orchards. After they
and the realization that she could, indeed, talk to animals. Fast-forward to college, meeting the man she would marry and their life in Hawaii. Then move ahead once more to the author’s 39th birthday, as she awaits the results of a tumor biopsy and reflects on her life-long dream to train dogs to assist people with different handicaps; now it might never happen. When the results come back that the tumor is benign, Maurer sells her CPA business and launches the nonprofit Assistance Dogs of Hawaii. Each of the next 14 chapters tells of one dog and the person that dog is trained to help. I am still amazed at the intricacies of how these dogs are trained. The program that the author and her husband develop kept me on the edge of my seat. Applicants for service dogs, if they can be matched, become part of the training.
to each one, and their pros and cons. As you create a blueprint for your home, you will find yourself unpacking the why behind your previous approach to parenting. Practice patience and consistency. The issues with your daughter will not be solved after a few books or YouTube videos. Refrain from implementing what you learn as soon as you read it. Instead, take some time to let it sink in. Talk with your wife about how you both are perceiving the information. Be clear on what you are both comfortable implementing. Decide how you will support each other and hold yourselves accountable. Create a plan of action and discuss potential outcomes. Hold a family meeting to
explain changes and future expectations. A strong, unified front, paired with consistency and patience, will give the best chance of success. Colton, there is nothing to gain by passing blame, stripping your wife’s input or spontaneously announcing: “There’s a new sheriff in town.” Hand in hand with your wife, invest in therapy, admit defeat, become students, and practice patience and consistency. Your daughter is depending on you both. Be well; you are worthy. Dominique King is a wife, mother, lifestyle blogger and avid long-distance runner. Email questions and comments to her at leaninwiththekings@gmail.com.
Tobacco targets marginalized Memoir explores the ‘Wonder’ communities of training assistance dogs
I bought the red and white box. It reminded me of my grandparent’s place, and that box certainly made a statement. I felt like I would only be taken seriously if I were seen sliding out a cigarette from a Marlboro Reds box and lighting up. My way cool college roommate had been smoking them for years. We were in our first years of college, “finding” ourselves. I was definitely queer and questioning so many aspects of my identity. The 2017-’18 California Healthy Kids Survey showed that Mt. Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD) lesbian, gay and bisexual middle and high school students use e-cigarettes 1.5-2.5 times more than their straight peers. In California, 1 in 5 gender nonbinary and 1 in 4 transgender students reported using a tobacco product in the past 30 days. In 2018, LGBTQI+ adults in California smoked nearly twice as much (18%) as all adults (9.7%). Reds were “too intense” for me, so I explored other options and turned to clove cigarettes. Cloves deliver more nicotine, carbon monoxide and tar than traditional tobacco cigarettes. The aromatic fragrance denoted something of difference, much like I was striving to mark my existence, and landed acknowledgement from others. Clove is distinctively sweet and spicy, with hints of vanilla, just like me. Being ChineseAmerican, I noticed other folx of color smoking clove cigarettes and believed I had chosen well. In Concord, tobacco retailers cluster in lower-income communities of color, downtown and along Monument Boulevard. The tobacco industry lowers prices in areas with more people of color across our state, knowing this makes their products more accessible for underage youth – namely Latine, Black and low-income people. Cigarillo cigars are sold cheaply in Concord with countless flavors and aromas. The tobacco industry knows they will lose a lot of current and future customers in California if SB793’s partial flavor ban becomes law, which is why they paid signature gatherers to land it on the November ballot and why they will challenge the law in court if voters reject their deceptive messaging and support the law. It will take years, if ever, before the state law takes effect. More than 70 California cities and counties have decided to protect their residents by stopping the sale of all flavored tobacco products. Many jurisdictions, including unin-
SUNNY SOLOMON
BOOKIN’ WITH SUNNY
Dogs are trained to respond to handicap-specific cues, not orders. One dog is trained to respond to hand signs, another to open doors and shut off lights, another to respond to smells and other body triggers indicating a medical emergency. The list of what the dogs are capable of learning is astounding. “Wonder Dogs” tells how Maurer introduced the scientific world to canine health
benefits beyond a “feel good” effect on patients. I said “yes” to reviewing “Wonder Dogs” because I’ve often thought how great it would be to have a dog tell me when someone knocks on my door or to alert me to a smoke detector or phone call when my hearing aids are charging. Most of all, I recommend this book to anyone who already has a dog. After reading “Wonder Dog,” I guarantee you’ll look at or listen to your dog in an entirely new way. And the next time you see an assistance dog in training, it will be hard not to stop and ask the trainer a few questions. Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’
Mt. Diablo Trail Ride group founded for the love of horses reached the town of Clayton, they were directed to Black Diamond Road and went on to the old mining towns of Nortonville and Summersville. From there, they went across cattle ranches in Oil Canyon and came out at the Marsh Creek springs; this was the lunch stop. Refreshed, they mounted their horses and rode over the prison farm property to Sycamore Springs and on up to Barbecue Terrace. It was a rugged test of endurance for both the riders and horses. After a delicious barbecue, there were songs and stories around the fire and then they rolled up in their sleeping bags. Come sunrise, they retraced their steps – ending up at the old Pacheco Adobe. An evening banquet at Joe and Isabel DeRosa’s hotel honored the 14 contestants who finished the race. In 1942, the trail ride was held in September with 30 riders. Forty riders competed in 1943, and there were 50 entries in 1944. By then, the Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association was beginning to officially form as a not for profit social club with 70 members. In 1945, they added special events to the race day – a parade, stock horse classes, quarter horse races, musical chairs, and flat saddle and jumping classes. The grand entry in special events increased to 200 participants.
The association had property on Bisso Lane, with rodeo space, barns and horses. As time went by, George Cardinet
ity, but it is still owned by the trail ride association. They have 21 stalls, two barns, three arena rings, two round pens and, of
Bill Maderos, left, Jack Byrne, Don Evans, Mrs. Stanley Gripe Jr. and Kent Weaver were the judges for the 1945 ride hosted by the Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association.
and Joe DeRosa established many trails on Mt. Diablo. They were always riding on lower Diablo and looking for land. In 1960, they found the perfect place for the organization’s new location: 500 untouched acres of rugged rocky hillside. They brought in bulldozers and put up the first barn with stalls for the annual trail ride. They selected sites for the clubhouse and swimming pool and carved arenas out of the mountain below the clubhouse. The latest accomplishment is that Save Mount Diablo paid to preserve the land in perpetu-
course, the clubhouse and pool. The hidden gem is off Russelmann Park Road in Clayton. They have stalls available for rent, and membership is $50 a month to have access to the trails, clubhouse and pool. Don’t miss this little piece of heaven in our own backyard. Visit CMDTRA.org for more information. Carol Longshore has been a Concord resident since 1950. She is a community leader and past president of the Concord Historical Society. Send comments and suggestions for future topics to editor@pioneerpublishers.com.
May 20, 2022
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page B7
T H E ARTS
‘Romeo y Juliet’ adaptation features English and Spanish lines, plus a gender twist longing to be back on that beautiful stage,” said Sanchez. “I’ve been a huge fan of SALLY HOGARTY Karen Zacarías for years and years.” STAGE STRUCK According to Cal Shakes artistic director Eric Ting, Cal Shakes returns May 25 both Zacarías and Sanchez with the world premiere of thought it was important to the bilingual “Romeo y Juliet,” mix lines in English and Spanrunning through June 19 at ish throughout. the Bruns Amphitheater in “They wanted to show the Orinda. ways in which language reprePlaywright Karen Zacarías sents class,” Ting said. “We did the translation in this realize it may not be as accesunique adaptation that uses sible to everyone, but I think English and Spanish intereveryone will still enjoy this changeably. KJ Sanchez, who production. So many are did the national tour of Cal familiar with the story, and Shakes’ 2018 hit “Quixote from the workshop rehearsals Nuevo,” returns to direct. I’ve attended, it is going to be “I have been longing to really exciting.” work with Cal Shakes again, Set in the early 1800s, longing to make art again, “Romeo y Juliet” takes place in Alta California when the Golden State was under Mexican rule. The young lovers will both be women. “I think it is very cool to have the lovers played by women,” Ting said. “California was on the cusp of transformation, with all these strict religious rules about relationships, and this feeds into the story and time period.” For tickets, call 510-5489666 or go to Photo courtesy Diablo Ballet www.calshakes.org. Diablo Ballet closes its seaMadhuri Shekar’s fresh son with the beloved clastake on the Greek classic sic “Coppélia” May 20-21 “Antigone” is Town Hall Theat Walnut Creek’s Lesher atre’s second production of Center.
the mainstage season in Lafayette. Shekar, who is currently writing the screenplay for Whoopi Goldberg’s “Sister Act 3,” examines the classic as performed by a high school drama department. “Antigone, presented by the girls of St. Catherine’s” chronicles events when the students realize their beloved drama teacher has betrayed them in an unforgivable way. They soon discover their own lives have become a shocking parallel to the story of Antigone. “Many young women are introduced to ‘Antigone’ during high school English class while they are growing into society’s rules of what women should be and what they should accept,” said director Claire Ganem. The show runs June 2-25 at Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School St., Lafayette. Call 925283-1557 or go to www.townhalltheatre.com. Ballet lovers have a treat in store with Diablo Ballet’s “Coppelia.” The lighthearted, romantic comedy runs May 20-21 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Young performers are busy throughout the county with El Campanil Theatre Academy
Graphic designer ‘feels the joy’ when creating digital art
presenting “Crazy for You: Youth Edition” and the Ballet School’s Performing Arts Studio presenting “The 39 Steps.” The Theatre Academy performs May 20-21 at 602 W 2nd St., Antioch. Enjoy the next generation of performers by calling 925-757-9500 or going to www.elcampaniltheatre.com. The Ballet School performs May 20 at the Lesher Center for the Arts. For tickets, call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Meanwhile, Clayton TheKJ Sanchez, who directed the national tour of Cal Shakes atre Company (CTC) will once “Quixote Nuevo,” shown here, returns to direct “Romeo y
See Stage, page B8
Juliet” at the Orinda amphitheater.
New local albums – from high octane to instrumental guitar the surrounding areas have been steadily churning out music for you to enjoy. There have been more than 40 local music releases since the start of this year. Here are just a few new albums from our region, with a brief description of what listeners can expect from each of them. “Amigos” by Day Labor. In a throwback to the mid-tolate ’90s, Day Labor delivers another solid ska-punk album, complete with the signature, fast-paced distorted guitars, memorable horn lines and catchy hooks. The high-energy tunes will make any fan of the genre want to skank, pogo or get in the mosh pit. The genre
DAVE HUGHES
THE BEAT OF DIABLO Maybe you’ll find your favorite song or album of 2022 in your own backyard. From singles and EPs to full-length albums, artists from the Diablo Valley and
“It’s Just a Color ... But it Burns” from Walnut Creek cyber-punk duo The Call of Dusk offers a high-octane shot of adrenaline.
has an inherent adolescent angst, which comes through
See Beat, page B8
Mayy 28, 29 & 30
M orial Day Weekend Memo Dow wntown Concord
JOHN NAKANISHI
ARTS
IN
MOTION
Pat Calabro is a long-time Concord Art Association (CAA) board member who is indispensable in working her IT magic on CAA’s social media sites. She also uses her computer skills to create artwork. “Pat’s quick wit is always on display and ready to make us laugh,” says treasurer Sharon Petersen. “Her hair is as colorful as her art, and she is always ready to party. She arrives for noon meetings with her ever-ready bottle of wine and is always ready to volunteer for whatever is needed. Her specialty is anything computer-related, a skill not readily available in our age group.” I first saw Calabro’s art during a composition class we were both taking online. While most of us were showing work created in traditional art media like watercolor, acrylic or pencil, Calabro was completing all her exercises and homework on her computer. It was the first time I heard of Procreate, a digital illustration app. I had experience using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop from my engineering background, but I never considered an iPad as an artist’s tool. I soon discovered that there is a lively discussion in the art community about the validity of digital art. “When I first started digital art, fellow artists would say that what I did wasn’t ‘real’
Direct ctt from Floridaa
3 SHOWS D LYY DAIL
MEET T & GREET Digital artist Pat Calabro’s background in computer consuting and her inner creative passion came together after retirement with a certificate in graphic design.
because I didn’t use paint,” Calabro says. Another complaint often heard about digital art is that there are no originals and many copies can be instantly created. “They think that I am cheating (or that) the computer does the work,” says Calabro, who is quick to point out that many professional artists show work created from Procreate. For example, artist David Hockney used the digital app to create a series of landscapes. Looking into Calabro’s background, it is easy to see how she ended up combining art and technology. Calabro discovered the artist in her after her retirement as a computer consultant in 2008. She found that the inner creativity she tapped while computer programming combined with her love of art was easily translatable into obtaining a graphic design certificate. Then she ventured into paint pouring. “I love the texture and movement of the paint,” says Calabro, who became proficient in the technique and enjoys giving classes to teach others. “Pat Calabro is one of
those artists that is willing to try new things,” notes CAA board member Renaye Johnson. “This has led to some wonderful artwork that is enjoyed by our whole community. She is also very supportive of other artists and is an excellent teacher.” Recently, Calabro has been offering classes on using Procreate. She creates many pieces of fine art in Procreate and then prints them on glass. It occurred to me that too much attention is being placed on the end product when trying to determine if this media is art. Perhaps it is better to focus on the creative process, which is no different than any other media. The visual enjoyment attained by art lovers is no different either. “Art surrounds itself with an ambiance that encourages a positive approach to life,” Calabro says, adding that she wants her viewers to “feel the joy and attraction that I feel when I paint.” John Nakanishi is an acrylic painter and a ceramic artist. Email comments and suggestions for future columns to phjona@gmail.com.
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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
May 20, 2022
Hiking Grand Canyon’s South Rim an awe-inspiring adventure string of mules and their riders as we began our descent on Bright Angel. This trail offers easy access, cool cavelike features and so many views along the trail that you’ll need to remind yourself to watch your footing. Expect lots of switchbacks and trail traffic. Most importantly, don’t lose track of your elevation loss. Remember: What you hike down, you must hike back up.
An absolute “must do” is getting up early and watching the sunrise over the Grand Canyon. That was just after 6 a.m. on our visit, so each morning we packed a thermos and bicycled to the rim for a light show of naturistic proportions. Sunsets along the rim are also popular, with too many vista points to count KEVIN PARKER spread along the rim. There are dozens of hiking HIT THE TRAIL options when visiting the South Rim of the Grand South Rim. We had a fairly Canyon is probably the closest large hiking party with adults you’ll come to standing on the and kids of various ages, so edge of the world, feeling we chose our trails and turnsmall as you wonder how this around spots accordingly. I all came to be. will highlight three of our Two families, 11 bicycles, 2 favorites, not necessarily in RVs and a spirit for adventure order. took us on an eight-day road trip built around visiting the SOUTH KAIBAB TRAIL Grand Canyon. South Rim sits Roundtrip distance/ at an elevation of 7,000 feet Skeleton Point: 6 miles and, for visiting purposes, Roundtrip distance/ spans from Hermits Rest to Ooh Ahh Point: 1.8 miles Yaki Point. Trail info: Very steep trail, We stayed at Trailer Village cuts along the ridgeline, mainRV Park, an epic jump-off tained dirt, minimal shade, spot with a network of trails mule traffic, no water on trail. that put us easily at the The trail cut into a massive canyon’s edge during our stay. wall, zig-zagging down into Three days is the perfect the canyon like a crazed amount of time to see South hyena. The sudden elevation Rim; consider April for mini- drop and other aspects of this mal crowds and cooler weath- trail made some nervous, er.
Kevin Parker
The view from Bright Angel Trail makes it one of the most popular places to hike in the park.
while others found a hiker’s paradise. Ooh Ahh Point was a favorite photo shot and a smart turnaround spot. For those who want more, consider hiking to Cedar Ridge. BRIGHT ANGEL TRAIL Roundtrip distance/ Plateau Point: 12 miles Roundtrip distance/
Second Tunnel: 1.8 miles Trail info: Most popular hiking trail in the park, wide views of inner canyons, tucked deep inside canyon along massive fault, trail tunnels, mule traffic, water is seasonally available on trail. Mules on trails is a real thing here at South Rim, and these animals can climb a canyon. Our group passed a
This trail has the best views at South Rim and offers some of the easiest access and routing in the park. Some group favorites included hiking Hermits Rest to Pima Point, Hopi Point, Powell Point, Trail Overlook and Yaki Point. If you want to bike this entire route, consider renting an e-bike at Bright Angel Bicycles. No excuses because you can hike, bike, ride a shuttle, load bikes on shuttles or any RIM TRAIL combination of these activiDistance/South Kaibab ties to cover this entire trail. Trailhead to Hermits Rest: The Grand Canyon and 13 miles especially all the offerings of Trail info: Can be South Rim were a recipe for a accessed via three separate memorable trip that highlightshuttle bus routes, with more ed the true wonders of nature. than 12 stops that allow hiking Kudos to the National Park individual sections of trail. Service for providing such Mostly paved trail, hikers and excellent outdoor opportunibikers allowed on most porties and “get too close for tions of trail, water and restcomfort” access. Get out rooms available, scenic views there. along the rim’s edge the entire hike. Contact Kevin Parker with comDo not miss this trail. Let ments or questions by email at me repeat: Not to be missed. LukeHollywood@gmail.com
Beat, from page B7
with nostalgia on the band’s second full length album. “Amigos” is the Pittsburgbased band’s follow-up to its equally fun 2015 debut album, appropriately called “Their Old Stuff.” If you’re a fan of again offer its Summer Stage p.m. May 22, immediately fol- ska-punk, chances are you’ll program for children 6-16, lowed by call backs, at thoroughly enjoy Day Labor’s with sessions July 11-15 and Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center music, both their old stuff July 18-21 at Endeavor Hall, St., Clayton. No appointments and the new. 6008 Center St., Clayton. The necessary. Download audition “It’s Just a Color … But it camp concludes with a perform at www.claytontheatreBurns” by The Call of Dusk. formance of excerpts from company.com. Comprised of layered synthe“You’re a Good Man Charlie sizers and soaring electric guiBrown” at 11 a.m. July 22. Sally Hogarty is well known tar solos, the debut instrumenRegister at www.claytonthearound the Bay Area as a newspa- tal album from Walnut Creek’s atrecompany.com. per columnist, theatre critic and The Call of Dusk is not In addition, CTC has working actress. She is the editor of something you’ll put on as scheduled auditions for the the Orinda News. Send comments background music – unless fall production of “Forbidden to sallyhogarty@gmail.com you’re the main character in Broadway’s Greatest Hits,” 3-4 an action film tasked with a
Stage, from page B7
thrillingly dangerous mission. With elements of techno and heavy metal, “It’s Just a Color” is hard to pin to a specific genre, although the term “cyber-punk” feels appropriate. If you work out to music, this high-octane album might go perfectly with your next run, ride or cardio day at the gym. Glenn Grubb’s energetic beats will keep your heart rate up, and Chris Mahon’s guitar shredding might just push you through that wall when you need it. “Myriad Worlds” by Janet Noguera. Noguera is an international award-winning modern fingerstyle guitarist currently residing in Antioch.
Pittsburg-based ska-punk band Day Labor released its second album, “Amigos,” on April 1.
Fingerstyle is a technique where the guitar – often acoustic – is played in a less conventional manner, employing unique tunings, complicated finger-tapping against the fretboard, and percussive hits, knocks and slaps across the guitar’s body. When executed
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gracefully, the impressive technique is a delight to behold. The magic of “Myriad Worlds” isn’t restricted to the novelty of this unique skill set. When in the right creative hands, a beautiful world of sound can be unearthed and explored, which is exactly what Noguera has done on this album. Expect acoustic guitar, electric guitar, electric bass and harp guitar – all played by Noguera – to create a spectrum of emotions and textures across this beautifully composed instrumental album. Find links to these albums and other recent releases from more than 150 local artists at ConcordRockCity.com.
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