NOV 10 The Pioneer 2023

Holiday Tree Lighting Celebrations Concord, Dec 1, 5:30-8 Todos Santos Plaza Clayton, Dec 2, 5:30-7 The Grove Park, Main St. Pleasant Hill, Dec, 4:30-7:30 Crescent Drive, Downtown

November 10, 2023

www.PioneerPublishers.com

No holiday from hunger as Food Bank braces for 20 percent spike DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

With food as the centerpiece of upcoming celebrations, its absence becomes even more real as advertisers plaster television airways with delicious imagery of the must haves for those festive occasions during November and December.

The Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano, along with its partnering agencies, has already seen an increase in the need due to several factors, including the cost of living and food, as well as the ending of pandemic-era benefits. The groups serve an average of 465,000 residents a month.

“We are anticipating these numbers to spike as we approach the holiday season by approximately 20%, based off of our increase observed from last year,” said Food Bank spokesperson Krystine Dinh. “We’re prepared to serve our community however they may need us.”

She noted that earlier this year, more than 75,000 households in Contra Costa and Solano counties were impacted by cuts in pandemic-era benefits, such as emergency allotments. These households experienced more than $6 million in total loss of benefits.

“We consider this one of the key reasons why we’ve been seeing an increase in need and new faces at our distribution sites,” said Dinh. “Erosion of the safety net as families grapple with continued inflation is deeply concerning.”

Among those seeing it firsthand is Jeff Bell of Lafayette, who has volunteered in the warehouse sorting and more recently serving in Concord with the Food Bank’s mobile food distribution service at its new Wednesday location off Systron Drive.

He has observed the uptick in community demand during past holiday seasons and anticipates the same this year, citing the persistent rise in inflation which hits those living on the margins even more acutely – especially with rising food prices.

So as 2023 winds to a close, there is no area where the Food Bank is turning away support, whether it’s folks seeking to volunteer, food donations or monetary gifts.

Current volunteers number over 8,000. Last year, they accounted for more than 100,000 hours.

Individuals and families can check out the Food Bank’s portal at www.volunteer.foodbankccs.org to see shifts that are available and what roles volunteers can fill.

See Hunger, page 3

Next issue, Dec. 8, Deadline, Nov. 27

Pilot program aims to help pull Concord residents out of poverty BEV BRITTON The Pioneer

Monument Impact’s new guaranteed income program is offering 120 single-parent families some breathing room on their journey to economic independence.

Along the way, organizers hope to combat the punitive system that keeps people in poverty and change the narrative about financial instability.

“Right now in the United States, we tend to blame people for their financial condition. We call that a deficitbased view,” says Rachel Barnhart, media relations director of the Oakland-based UpTogether. “We want to see people for their strengths, their initiatives and their own pathways to get ahead.”

The Elevate Concord pilot program will provide each family $500 a month for one David Scholz year with no strings attached – Recipients collect fruit and vegetable allotments from a Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano truck at its Wednesday afteralong with a $2,500 upfront noon stop at 2731 Systron Drive in Concord on Nov. 1. payment to help them stabilize their financial situations. The majority of the funding comes from $1.5 million the Concord City Council allocated from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

According to project manager Julia Quintero, the idea evolved during the pandemic.

“We saw that a lot of people were having a hard time the organization’s silver award Earning duo top recovering, whether they had for their joint effort.

Girl Scout honors lost their jobs or just needed Daphne followed this projextra assistance. We were getect with her bid for the Gold DAVID SCHOLZ ting a lot of community memAward, the Girl Scout’s highest Correspondent bers coming in and asking for honor, with plans for a barn owl different resources, whether box to replace one at Heather for mental assistance or helpThe proverb goes “a bird in Farms in Walnut Creek. ing them find jobs. Our team The joint endeavor was the hand is worth two in the spent a couple months thinkbush.” And, as Katya Koriabine hatched after reading an article ing of the best way to address and Daphne Dale learned this about Georgette Howington these concerns,” she says. past year, birds in boxes are who heads Contra Costa Counworth silver and gold awards ty’s California Bluebird Recovery WORKING TO MAINTAIN Program and works with the too.

OTHER BENEFITS After building boxes to serve birds. A lengthy hike in May with Monument Impact based as nests for bluebirds and then her at Lafayette Reservoir gave the program on SEED, the monitoring them over an entire their girls a chance to see where Stockon Economic Empowerseason, the 14-year-old Girl nesting boxes are located and David Scholz ment Demonstration. The Scouts with Troop 30902 of the learn about the threatened birds. Daphne Dale looks on as Mike Tischler uses a utility knife funds are considered a gift and Northern California Creekside to carefully cut the foam core into pieces for the model of Service Unit 324, were awarded See Scouts, page 6 her barn owl box.

Invaluable lessons born from bluebird, barn owl nesting boxes

See Impact, page 6

‘Rockstar’ Ygnacio Valley engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico adds state honor to resume JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Joseph Alvarico of Ygnacio Valley High School has the added distinction of being a 2024 California Teacher of the Year after earlier being named a Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year.

Alvarico was called by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond telling him of the state honor.

He was the only Northern California teacher among the superintendent’s five honorees this year with the other four teachers residing in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties.

“I am proud that one of our Contra Costa County teachers of the year has been named one of the state’s top educators,” Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey said.

“Joseph is a great example of the high-quality teaching and learning going on in Contra Costa County schools every day and it’s a great honor for him to be selected as a California Teacher of the Year. Congratulations to him, his colleagues and MDUSD for the support they have given him throughout this process and his career.”

Mt. Diablo Unified School District Superintendent Adam Clark was so impressed with Alvarico on a recent KTVU Fox 2 news feature that Clark sent the video to all District staff with the message: “I will continue to celebrate this huge accomplishment. A true professional who inspires students to reach amazing heights! Thank you, Mr. Alvarico.”

Dr. Clark also lauded Alvarico during his Superintendent’s Report to the school board, calling him “a model of what we

should strive to be.”

“I am both thrilled and humbled at the same time to have been selected as one of the 2024 California Teachers of the Year.

This distinction is a reflection of the long hours and unwavering commitment that I have put into my teaching career,” Alvarico said.

“My gratitude extends to multiple people in my life who have guided me along my professional path and supported my classroom every step of the way.

Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat! Without you, I wouldn’t be able to give my students the greatest service that I possibly could. I am excited to continue making a positive impact on the lives of my students, our local community, and the educational world at large.”

Alvarico was able to send the

See Teacher, page 6

Pioneer file photo by Jay Bedecarré

Joseph Alvarico (right) has had quite the fall, first being named Contra Costa Teacher of the Year and then last month adding a title of 2024 California Teacher of the Year, the only Northern Californian among the five tabbed for state honors. This photo from September 2019 was at the dedication of the Ygnacio Valley High School Innovation Center on the Concord school’s campus. The room is the center of the school’s engineering, robotics and STEM programs spearheaded by Alvarico.

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November 10, 2023

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When to hire movers and how to choose the right one task yourself. Here is information to help guide you through the process of deciding whether to hire movers and, if so, how to select the best moving company for your needs.

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Also pay attention to your time constraints. Do you have a flexible schedule or do you need to move quickly? ProfesEVALUATE YOUR SITUATION sional movers and packers can The first step in determining significantly expedite this whether to hire professional process. movers is to assess your unique Finally, what is your budget? circumstances.

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how to pack and handle your belongings – reducing the risk of damage. Most movers have insurance so if something goes wrong, your belongings should be covered. Finally, hiring movers can alleviate the stress and physical strain of moving.

Cons: Professional moving services can be pricey, especially for long-distance moves. You also may have less control over the process compared to moving yourself.

Some of my clients adopt a hybrid approach where they order a POD and load many of their belongings themselves during the staging and sale process. Once the home closes, they have the POD delivered to their new home and then hire

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FINDING THE RIGHT FIT Research local moving companies. Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends, family or your local real estate agent.

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Get quotes from multiple moving companies. Make sure you’re comparing apples to apples when reviewing the quotes.

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any additional services or added fees The decision to hire movers or handle a move on your own should be based on a careful evaluation of your specific situation. When opting for professional movers, take time to research and select a reputable company that aligns with your needs and budget. If you choose to handle the move on your own, make sure you have the time and physical ability to take on such a task.

With the right movers on your side, the transition to your new home can be less stressful.

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

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5497 Silver Sage Ct. . . . . . . . . . $1,275,000 . . . .2470 . . .4/3 . . . .9/28/2023 3905 Clayton Rd #6 . . . . . . . . . . . $413,000 . . . .1050 . . .2/1.5 . . .10/2/2023 2813 Saint Joseph Dr . . . . . . . . . . $980,000 . . . .2049 . . .4/2.5 . . .10/4/2023 4408 Winterberry Ct . . . . . . . . . $1,060,000 . . . .2886 . . .4/2.5 . . .10/6/2023 3950 Joan Ave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $981,000 . . . .1506 . . .3/2 . . .10/10/2023 2775 Wilmore Ct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $860,000 . . . .1871 . . .4/2 . . .10/16/2023 1060 Green Point Ct. . . . . . . . . . . $890,000 . . . .1607 . . .3/2.5 . .10/20/2023

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November 10, 2023

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Page 3

Resource Fair connects veterans with deserving benefits and services DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

Those who answered the call certainly are owed a debt of gratitude.

But after concluding their military service, the work for veterans is hardly over when it comes to getting all the benefits and services for which they are entitled.

That said the annual Veterans Resource Fair, sponsored in some form by Congressman Mark DeSaulnier nearly every year since he was first elected 2014, held Nov. 3 at the Walnut Creek Shadelands Art Center, again made that task a little easier as federal, state, and county agencies and other veteran organizations were on hand to lend assistance to the nearly 100 veterans and loved ones who attended.

DeSaulnier’s 10th District is home to 27,000 veterans.

Jorge Barriere, a newcomer to Contra Costa County who served in Afghanistan and Iraq from 1996 to 2016, was among those most appreciative to receive the invite from DeSaulnier for the event.

“I am getting to the know the area and learning where to go for services,” he said.

Barriere noted such an event “saved him a lot of time digging around” for the assistance he was seeking. He made an inquiry at the event to a representative of DAV.org, which provides help to disabled American veterans with navigating their Veterans Administration (VA) benefits and providing counseling for veterans, was most pleased he was able to get a claim started right away.

Similar stories were playing out around the community room as about a dozen vendors were on hand for veterans to make inquiries. Participating groups and organizations included Veterans Benefits Administration, which also had the following Northern California providers representing care givers support group, patient experience, eligibility and enrollment, LGBTQ+ group, Women’s Veterans Group, community care; Concord Veterans Center, California Department of Veterans Affairs, Contra Costa County Veterans Service Office, Veterans Accession House, California Department of Insurance, VA National Cemetery Administration, and Antioch Riverton Lions Club.

Hunger, from page 1 “We ask that supporters interested in volunteering look into volunteer shifts after the holidays are over, as we often see a dip in volunteer interest at the beginning of the year,” Dinh said.

Smaller quantities of nonperishable food can be dropped off at the Concord

warehouse, 4010 Nelson Ave., or put in barrels positioned inside local supermarkets.

Email info@foodbankccs.org for nearby barrel locations.

Those interested in hosting a food drive can submit an inquiry.

Monetary help is just as critical to ensure the work gets

Firewise Town Hall

Nov. 13, 6:30-8 p.m.

Hoyer Hall In the Clayton Community Library 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton.

Join Councilmember Holly Tillman and local stakeholders for an initial meeting to establish the first Firewise Community in Clayton.

David Scholz

Learn about the Fire Triangle and how to protect your home and community. Clayton is a classic example of what the fire service calls Wildland Urban Interface, or WUI, and we have a heightened risk of wildfire. We all need to recognize this and learn from the recent past. And we need to act.

Learn more at http://bit.ly/claytonfirewise.

For more info: hollyt@claytonca.gov

Jorge Barriere, who served in Afghanistan and Iraq and is a relative newcomer to Contra Costa County, gets assistance at the Disabled American Veteran table as part of the Veteran Resource Fair on Nov. 3.

“I am already getting military retirement,” said Rossmoor resident Dennis Johnson, who served from 1962 to 1992, including places like Vietnam, but he came out to see what other benefits are available and meet other veterans.

David Light, of Walnut Creek, who served in the Navy, from 1956-1958 with assign-

ments in the South Pacific, recalled attending past resource events eight years ago when he was a bit more mobile and wanted to check out this one.

Light gave high marks to the Martinez VA, which assisted him with getting his walker as well as hearing aids.

“They are very helpful,” he said.

done. It’s just a click away at www.foodbankccs.org/givehelp/donate. Any amount can make a big difference, as every $1 provides at least two meals for our neighbors in need, Dinh said.

As the new year approaches, advocates remind the public to keep hunger front and center in the minds of their representatives in Sacramento. The need doesn’t get packed away

with the holiday decorations or picked up on trash day.

“We urge our representatives to author bills related to food security and food banks for the 2024 state legislative cycle – to strengthen our safety net and solve food insecurity systemically,” Dinh said.

To support the Food Bank this holiday season, go to foodbankccs.org and click on donate.

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Page 4

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

November 10, 2023

No gravy for Fido

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As families and friends sit down to delicious meals together, turkey, gravy and mashed potatoes are often on the menu. Everyone likes more gravy, right? However, definitely skip adding gravy to your pet’s food.

Gravy, along with poultry skin, is high in fat and can lead to gastroenteritis and pancreatitis. Both are common scenarios around the holidays and can range from a little tummy ache to as severe as needing hospitalization for treatment with intravenous fluids, and anti-nausea and pain medications.

Sometimes, you can treat a mild stomach upset by skipping a meal or feeding a bland diet for a few days. But in severe cases, pets can actually die from gut and pancreatic insults.

Also, it is best to forgo access to the leftover bones from turkey and other meat sources as they can cause gastrointestinal obstructions.

They can also splinter and perforate the bowel, etc., leading to surgery, expensive veterinary bills and sometimes heartache.

Chocolate is another potentially toxic food we see more of during the holiday season. In order of toxicity,

cocoa powder, unsweetened baker’s chocolate and dark chocolate are generally more problematic than milk chocolate, but all can be toxic in higher quantities.

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which cause racing heart rates and tremors. The fat in chocolate can also lead to vomiting and diarrhea. At high chocolate doses, seizures and even death can occur.

Other additives in chocolate desserts can add an additional danger to your pet, whether from oils and sugar, nuts or raisins (macadamia nuts and raisins/grapes are toxic to dogs), the lowglycemic sugar substitute xylitol, or even cannabis. I’ll discuss all of these in future columns.

Plant-wise, poinsettias can cause oral irritation and vomiting. Kitties that nibble on flowers can be at risk for kidney failure.

If you suspect your pet has ingested a substance that

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BEING PET SMART could be toxic, start with an immediate evaluation at a veterinary clinic or call a pet poison hotline. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, at 888-426-4435, will start a case number for you when you call. Your veterinary staff will also be happy to call them for you when you arrive at the clinic.

Here’s to a safe and happy holiday season for humans and pets alike.

New Pioneer columnist, Micki McCabe, DVM, DACVIM, FAAVA, is a long-time Clayton resident. The recently retired local veterinarian has an interest in internal and integrative medicine.

Email questions and comments to Mcwalls1@gmail.com

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Concord Clayton Pioneer

Ob i tua ry Harvey Wall September 19, 1928–October 20, 2023 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of husband, father and longtime Clayton resident Dr. Harvey R. Wall, 95, on Oct. 20, surrounded by family.

Harvey was born in Mountain Lake, Minn., where he was an athlete, musician and nature photographer, all of which stayed a vital part of him throughout his long life. He began his career in Topeka, Kan., as principal at the Boys Industrial School, where he worked with emotionally disturbed young men.

Education was important to Harvey, as he viewed it as a gateway to opportunity.

Therefore, he took his work with the Mt. Diablo Unified School District seriously, first, as an educational psychologist and later as director of research and development. During his tenure at the district, he implemented a thriving program for gifted and talented students, over-

saw the state testing program and created opportunities for college-bound students.

At the same time, he worked as an adjunct professor by night at Cal State Hayward, presently known as Cal State East Bay. In his off time, Harvey enjoyed spending time with family, often in British Columbia, where he captured his love of nature through breathtaking photos. A strong proponent of giving back to one’s community, he shared his gift with others, displaying his photos in the Clayton Library, local banks, museums and through online photography platforms.

In addition to sharing his craft, he also gave back through volunteer work with the Contra Costa Food Bank and Shelter Inc. In lieu of a memorial or flowers, the family wishes to honor Harvey’s commitment to service by requesting donations in his name to one of his favorite charitable

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organizations: the California Retired Teachers Association Scholarship Fund (calrta.org, scholarships section), Save Mount Diablo (savemountdiablo.org) or American Friends Service Committee (secure.afsc.org, make a tribute section).

Harvey leaves behind his devoted wife, Louise, 90; loyal son, Bryan, 69; and two loving daughters, Teresa, 64, and Marguerite, 59; along with his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

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November 10, 2023

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Gun safety calls for frank talk Q. How can I approach a discussion about gun safety with my husband without causing offense?

He’s a gun owner who prefers not to use a safe because he’s concerned about quick access in emergencies.

– Concerned mother and wife

your concerns in a way that shows you both share a common goal: protecting your loved ones.

Acknowledge his perspective. Acknowledge your husband’s point of view about quick access in emerA. Initiating a conversation gencies. Validate his conabout gun safety with your cerns and make it clear that husband is indeed a delicate you understand the impormatter, especially when he tance of rapid response believes that using a safe may when it comes to selflimit quick access in case of defense. This can help an emergency. As a concerned defuse any defensiveness. mother and wife, your primary Share relevant statisgoal is to ensure the safety of tics. Use statistics and facts your family. related to gun accidents Here are some construc- involving children and unautive ways to approach this thorized access. Explain that discussion without causing while quick access is essenoffense: tial, safe storage doesn’t necChoose the right time essarily mean sacrificing it. and place. Select a suitable Presenting data can undertime and location for the score the need for a balance conversation. Ensure there between accessibility and are no distractions and that security. you both have the time and Explore safe storage emotional space to engage in options. Discuss various a meaningful dialogue. The safe storage options available right environment can set in the market. There are biothe tone for a productive metric safes, quick-access discussion. safes and other innovative Express your concerns. solutions that allow for Start the conversation by secure storage while still stating your love and conensuring rapid retrieval in cern for the safety of your emergency situations. Presfamily. Let your husband ent these options as potential know that this discussion is solutions that meet both coming from a place of love your safety concerns and his and not criticism. Frame need for accessibility.

Highlight responsible gun ownership. Emphasize that responsible gun ownership is about more than just possessing firearms. It also entails safeguarding them from unauthorized access, particularly by children. Reinforce the idea that safe storage is an essential aspect of responsible gun ownership.

Share real-life scenarios.

Discuss instances where quick access to a firearm would still be possible even with a safe.

You can highlight times where homeowners successfully retrieved their guns from wellsecured storage during emergencies.

Seek a compromise.

Engage in an open dialogue and work together to find a compromise that ensures both safety and quick access. This might involve exploring alternative storage solutions or identifying specific situations where your husband would feel comfortable using a safe.

Involve a professional. If the discussion reaches an impasse, consider contacting a firearm safety expert or a security consultant. Their expertise can provide valuable insights and recommendations to ensure your family’s safety while respecting your husband’s concerns.

Reiterate your love and

Page 5

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concern. End the conversation by reassuring your husband of your love and commitment to the family’s wellbeing. Stress that this dialogue is about enhancing safety, not challenging his beliefs or rights as a gun owner.

Approaching this sensitive subject with empathy, understanding and a shared commitment to family safety can pave the way for a productive discussion. It’s essential to keep the lines of communication open, respect each other’s perspectives, and find a solution that prioritizes both security and quick access in emergencies.

Be well; you are worthy.

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Clinic offers a healthy new beginning Carl Anduri said at the ribbon-cutting. “I wish you all success.”

Here’s another idea for holiday treats without sugar: BANANA NUT MUFFINS Makes 6 servings (18 regular-size muffins)

CINDY GERSHEN

FARM TO TASTE I’m so pleased to be included in the launch of East Bay Health, which holds the promise of helping more people eat healthier.

We snipped a big red ribbon to open the Lafayette nonprofit clinic for primary care that includes culinary medicine among its holistic offerings. Across the hall from the doctors’ offices is a new kitchen where I can teach patients about fresh, unpackaged food.

The kitchen space allows for classes for adults and children. I am also scheduling times for open kitchen, when community members can come in and learn some healthy cooking tips. There’s a fee, but as with other services at East Bay Health, there are spots open for low-income community members to drop in for free.

Dr. Robert Lustig, left, Dr. Naomi Breckon and Rep. Mark DeSaulnier join chef Cindy Gershen at the opening of the new East Bay Health clinic in Lafayette.

We’ve already had a number of after-school classes for enthusiastic first graders, wearing white chef hats, from Lafayette Elementary School across Moraga Road. I’ll have more about the cooking classes in future columns.

East Bay Health provides access to quality primary care while supporting health equity with free care for underserved patients and those without health insurance. Direct primary care is an emerging model of medicine that replaces the fee-for-service model dictated by insurance.

“It allows us to do all the

things that most doctors don’t have the time to ask a patient about,” said Dr. Tracy Hu, cofounder of the clinic.

“The goal of the health center is to have time to listen, support and heal patients,” said co-founder Dr. Naomi Breckon. “It’s a new model with the hope of transforming primary care.”

Dr. Maha Hanna, a pediatrician, is available for breastfeeding consultation and classes. You can sign up for direct primary care at eastbayhealthcare.org.

“It was a great day for a beginning,” Lafayette Mayor

Place non-perishable foods in recycled bag or box, and place it outside in view of the street before 9 am Sat., Nov. 11

Suggested Items Canned goods: Tuna, Soups.

Peanut Butter, Condiments, Spices.

Cereal, Oatmeal, Snack Bars or Pop Tarts Pancake or Muffin Mixes, Crackers or Cookies.

Ramen, Rice, Beans or Pasta.

2.25 lbs. ripe bananas, mashed 5 oz. nut butter (I recommend Trader Joe’s almond butter) 6 oz. ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt 3 eggs 7 oz. oats 2 T cinnamon 1½ tsp. baking soda 1½ tsp. white vinegar 1 oz. nuts, chopped, for garnish Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except nuts. Separate evenly into silicone muffin cups. Sprinkle with nuts. Bake 25 minutes.

Muffins can be frozen.

Cindy Gershen is a culinary teacher and the chef-owner for 40 years of Sunrise Bistro and Catering in Walnut Creek. Along with a new venture, Gershen has a new email address. Contact her at chefcindy@eastbayhealthcare.org.

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CHERYL'S 95% REPEAT & REFERRAL RATE REFLECTS HER UNWAVERING INTEGRITY AND PROFESSIONALISM.

Page 6

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

November 10, 2023

Tamori family helped bring Japanese culture to Concord The yearly summer festival at Concord’s Japanese cultural center is a must-see event.

Many of us have gone for several years and enjoyed the teriyaki chicken, the flower display, the dancing and just the overall joy of a Japanese festival.

It all started with the Tamori family. Kumetaro Tamori was born Sept. 29, 1867, in Fukuoka, Japan. He came to America as a young man, arriving in Seattle, then coming to San Francisco and finally settling in Lafayette.

He learned all he could about raising pears and apples and became an expert at trimming the trees in order to harvest the best fruit.

In 1920, he returned to Japan to marry his wife, Nobu. They soon came back

African dissent.

They solved the problem when Hedeo Hoshi, born in Concord, purchased the property and turned it over to Tamori’s sons Kumeo and Shoji, who were both born here.

A portion of the land owned by the Tamori family was dedicated to the Concord CAROL LONGSHORE Japanese language institute, now known as the Diablo Japanese YESTERYEAR Religious and Cultural Center.

The Tamori family continto Lafayette. He and Nobu ued to raise fruit and vegetahad six children: Satauai, Kumeo, Shoji, Hideo, Rowena bles. They had a self-help vegetable and fruit stand on Treat and George.

In 1925, he found a plot of Road. A few of us remember getting fruit and vegetables land on Treat Road (now Treat Boulevard) in Concord, there.

During World War II, a however, he could not buy it because of the alien land law. Caucasian man leased the People were denied citizenship building and agreed to pay rent and taxes. A local lawyer if they were not white or of

was granted power over the property when Concord’s Japanese families were moved to internment camps.

Upon returning, they discovered that the taxes had not been paid. But the community donated money to pay back taxes, and the Tamoris reacquired their land.

Shoji enlisted in the Army the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Upon his return, he and his wife took a taxi from the train station in Martinez to the home on Treat. The driver told them: “No charge; welcome home.”

In 1953, the building was remodeled and the language school reopened for the first time since 1942. The fundraising summer festival was launched in 1957 and continues to this day.

In 1971, the building was moved across from the Concord Pavilion and renamed the We Care Center, and a new building was built. The Concord Buddhist society school became the holder of the deed for the new building.

The center continues to be a vibrant part of life in Concord, with a school for learning Japanese, cooking classes, flower arrangements, judo, and other Japanese sports and cultural activities and, of course, the beloved summer festival.

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.

Shoji Tamori appeared in native garb during the Japanese-American Summer Festival.

Help Rainbow continue Harvey Milk’s legacy of support Harvey Milk.

The event memorialized Milk’s 1978 debate at Northgate against Prop. 6, which sought to ban LGBTQIA+ individuals from teaching in public schools.

The assembly reminded me of the work ahead due to the ebb and flow of progress and JONATHAN LEE regression.

ALL THE COLORS While we rejoiced in marriage equality in June 2015, we I participated in a panel at have witnessed the rise of antiNorthgate High School on Oct. LGBTQIA+, anti-trans and 16 to commemorate the history anti-drag legislation across our and legacy of civil rights leader country since 2020 – culminat-

ing this summer with Constitutionally protected “religious bigotry” when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that an Evangelical Christian web designer can legally discriminate against gay couples and refuse them service.

Anita Bryant’s war on the LBGTQIA+ communities is still alive. The Moral Majority’s attack on civil rights and the LBGTQIA+ movement for equality is just as dangerous today as it was in the 1970s.

Today, they are a core part of

Impact, from page 1

Teacher, from page 1

fall underneath the $16,000 cap for taxation.

But because the additional money can push participants over the limit for government services, Monuement Impact will help people apply for waivers so they can continue to receive their maximum benefits.

“If you make a dollar more than you’re supposed, you can lose a lot of benefits. How does that incentivize them to get ahead?” Barnhart asks. “We place barriers every step of the way. Our failed systems keep us stuck in the status quo.”

Quintero applauds Oaklandbased UpTogether’s efforts on behalf of the underserved.

“They prioritize giving people the resources they need and also advocate the ways in which policies are made and how poverty has been addressed in our country,” she says.

BUILDING COMMUNITY Monument Impact has focused on Concord’s immigrant, refugee and low-income communities since 2001. Quintero, who grew up in Concord, came on board in August after completing her master’s in anthropology at Texas State University. She had previously worked in Texas and Arizona with families of immigrants who died while crossing the border.

“I decided to join Monument Impact because they really aligned with my values and ideals,” she says. “I really wanted to be part of something that is going to help families in the community.”

According to Quintero, 178 applicants qualified for the funding. UpTogether chose participants randomly.

To be considered, people had to meet the following criteria: • Be a resident of Concord.

• Be a single parent with at least one child under 12.

• Earn $55,000 or less annually.

• Lost income during COVID. • Face housing instability.

GUIDANCE ALONG THE NEW PATH

As part of Elevate Concord, Monument Impact will offer “wrap-around services” to support the residents’ long-term goals.

“We have technology classes if people want to learn computer skills. We have an emerging business program if someone wants to start a business. We have mental health classes. We also have rental assistance,” Quintero reports. “And we will be providing other kinds of workshops throughout the year revolved around topics that our participants will guide us in.”

UpTogether also encourages those in the program – or anyone in need – to join its social media platform focused on community building and solutions to poverty.

At the year’s end, Monument Impact will evaluate the program’s effectiveness. “We will see how their mental health changed, how they’re spending more time with their children,” Quintero says.

Based on the $195 million in guaranteed income that UpTogether has already helped distribute nationwide, Elijah Wood also expects positive results.

“Generally speaking, we have seen an overall increase in wellbeing, encompassing housing stability, food security and mental health,” says Wood, UpTogether’s director of West Coast partnerships.

Wood says using ARPA funds for these types of programs offers a “wedge into understanding that this does work and can be done in a way that the public can acknowledge and support.”

And with each successful pilot program, the dial moves a little further in the right direction.

“If you can present evidence that people are using these investments to better their lives, to get ahead and that they are experiencing more housing stability and more well-being, that starts to make the case that we have to change our policies and we have to change the narrative,” Barnhart says.

“Working alongside the families and talking about their experiences, we can advocate for more funding for these programs around the county,” concludes Quintero.

voicemail recording of Thurmond’s phone call to his family in the Philippines. “It made them very proud,” he said.

Ygnacio Valley High Principal Jonathan Pike says, “We are thrilled that Joseph has been recognized for his dedication and impact on our school, students and community at multiple schools. He is truly deserving of this award, and we believe he is only one of many teachers at our school that believes in our students and opens doors of opportunity for them to achieve their goals.”

DIDN’T AIM TO BE A TEACHER Both of Alvarico’s parents are teachers but he did not set out on a path to become a teacher until receiving a full-ride scholarship to a college in Manila. The scholarship required him to study education and work as a teacher for at least one year.

With a short-term commit-

the Republican platform and the fuel behind Moms for Liberty. The Moms are working to get people elected to school boards so they can ban books and pass policies to out our children, which may result in some un-aliving themselves if they are born into homophobic families.

For these reasons, the act of commemorating Harvey Milk is important. It is a reminder and symbol that others believe in freedom, equality and equity for all, not some. It’s a symbol of

ment in mind, he became a teacher intern in the 1990s and has been “hooked” on teaching ever since. He taught in the Philippines for four years before answering an ad from MDUSD for a teaching position.

District human resources staff visited him in his homeland, and, following an interview with a school principal, Alvarico took a job at Oak Grove Middle School and seven years ago moved to Ygnacio Valley.

In his KTVU interview Alvarico, who is also an adjunct professor in the CCAP-STEM program at Diablo Valley College, says that he loves “the rockstar feeling of being a teacher.”

He explains that “I have to know what the student is feeling in order to teach them. I’ve seen what the kids need and that’s what drives me,” Alvarico said.

Alvarico and colleagues have reached out to community groups and businesses to help

Scouts, from page 1

“Georgette’s enthusiasm about bluebirds was contagious, Daphne and I decided that it was a great idea to help these bluebirds by building them nest boxes in different places, and monitoring them,” Katya said.

The girls built several boxes at Katya’s Concord home and at Sienna Ranch in Lafayette.

From June 2022 to August 2023, they gathered materials, built the bird boxes, identified spots to hang them, and monitored the birds using them.

While no Bluebirds ended up being attracted, other species of birds, including chickadees that are even more threatened.

“We started monitoring from the moment we hung the boxes, to a month after the babies that nested inside them flew away,” Katya said.

Great satisfaction was garnered being part of the restorative process, including filling out the tracking sheet for each box for the welfare of the Western Bluebirds, and other birds in the area. A couple of the boxes even had chicks and eggs.

“It was very amazing to see For more information, visit the how hard the bird parent websites monumentimpact.org and worked for the chicks. I feel like uptogether.org.

I can now better appreciate their dedication. I’ve also started

noticing birds more after this project, they are far more interesting now that I understand their processes. I am excited to possibly observe another round of birds,” said Katya, noting bluebirds have been checking out the one at her home.

For Daphne, who lives in Lafayette, it also was an acknowledgement that the task involved more than just putting up a box.

It was how much work goes into being a volunteer to make a positive impact.

“I learned how fragile the Western Bluebirds are and how they are impacted by the humans and our population growth,” she said. “I have gained a greater understanding of not just the Western Bluebird but all birds in my community.”

“The chicks were so tiny and all fledged successfully. After the birds fledged we cleaned it out to make it ready for a new family,” Daphne continued, recalling one box inhabited by a family of swallows.

The process of making bluebird nesting boxes started with card box models, which set the stage for constructing wooden ones with the support of Concord resident and a seasoned woodworker Mike Tischler.

safety for queer youth. And, more importantly, it’s a powerful reminder that each one of us can be a force for social change.

If you are struggling to accept yourself because you are different, I am here to tell you: Don’t give up. You are perfect, and there is nothing wrong with you.

Although you may not feel love now, you will find love in the future. Although your family may have disowned you, there is a chosen family out

there, waiting for you with open arms. Come out fully or partially, or stay in the closet, it does not matter. As BIPOC queers, we do not need to live up to the expectations of dominant white mainstream queer cultural norms.

If you need help, come to the Rainbow Community Center. Since 1995, Rainbow has been ardently serving the LGBTQIA+ communities. At a time when HIV-positive people

fund and develop the awardwinning engineering and robotics program at Ygnacio Valley which has the name Project 212, in honor of the former shop classroom it calls home on the Concord campus.

He’s especially proud of getting more female students into his engineering classes.

Alvarico is the second Mt. Diablo Unified School District Contra Costa teacher of the year in a row after Mt. Diablo English teacher Nathasha Paul was similarly awarded for 2022-23.

degrees in both Business Administration and Biology.

He has received many awards and accolades over the years; however, it is the impact he leaves on students that matters most to him. “Seeing my students work toward and achieve their dreams is the biggest reward I get from teaching,” Alvarico said. “The icing on the cake is for my students to return as professionals and give back to this community I serve.”

With his on-the-job experience in the tech industry, he weaves real world experiences into his lessons. Teaching teenagers, being a lifelong learner and building a community with his students is the secret sauce that has turned his robotics and yearbook students into design and engineering professionals.

While helping underserved students for the past 23 years, Alvarico strives to show them their potential and the possibilities available when they leave high school.

3RD MDUSD HONOREE This is the third time a MDUSD teacher has won the state teacher of the year award.

The other two are Janet Gower in 2002 and Rosie Reid in 2019.

Reid was also the state’s nominee for national teacher of the year.

Alvarico has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Bachelor of Secondary Education degree. Prior to immigrating to the United States, he started the process of attaining master’s “Mike taught us how to read plans and to use many woodworking tools, like a drill press.

We built 13 Western Bluebird boxes and painted them to help protect the wood from all kinds of weather,” Daphne said.

The final step for the duo to earn the Silver Award was a formal presentation, which included showing one of their nest boxes, at Lafayette’s Sienna Ranch before more than 100 students.

In the wake of the bluebird experience, Daphne learned from Howington about the sad state of the barn owl nesting box at Heather Farm. She explained the poorly designed nest lacks proper ventilation, making it inhabitable during the hot summer months. It is also mounted on a wooden pole that is too tall, making it wobbly. Over time, squirrels have made nests in it.

“I will follow the plans for a new and improved design that offers ventilation for the box. It will be mounted on a shorter, metal pole, making it more stable and impossible for squirrels and other animals to climb,” Daphne said.

She is awaiting approval for the new box from the city of Walnut Creek, which already has given its verbal permission.

In the interim, Daphne made paper templates, eventual guides

See Colors, page 7

for the wood pieces, to make board from foam core board boards for a barn owl box model.

Tischler originally entered the picture as he was a long-time builder of bluebird next boxes for Howington. He soon saw the enjoyment that the girls were having with the experience.

They used the drill press, electric drill, and electric screw driver without any problems.

“They are fast learners and have no problem with the portable tools,” said Tischler.

“The challenge is to keep everyone safe. I show them how to use the tools other than the table saw, and then watch them (stepping in if unsafe practices developing),” he said.

Tischler anticipates Daphne’s project will pick up steam in January. She will purchase materials for the actual barn owl box. He will handle cutting the wood, and it will be her job to put it together.

“I would hope she learns about planning a project and what it takes to see it through to completion. In the build phase she will be doing more hands-on work. The emphasis should be on managing the project and not construction of the end product,” he said.

November 10, 2023

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Page 7

Fr om th e d e s k o f. . .

P.O. Box 1246 6160 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton, CA 94517

Community meets to work on Concord’s Homeless Plan

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Colors, from page 6 and people with AIDS were denied medical care, Rainbow advocated for them and debunked unfounded, unscientific fears about transmission.

Since this time, Rainbow has continued to be a safe space for LGBTQIA+ people of all ages and a place for the community to collectively address central issues of alienation, a byproduct of living in secret and in fear.

Similar to many non-profits and businesses, the economic difficulties of the post-COVID pandemic are hitting Rainbow hard. We share in the struggle of American families who cannot keep up with the rising costs of goods and services.

These economic hardships are made more acute for Rainbow because there is limited public funding for non-profits

that serve the LGBTQIA+ communities. As a frontline LGBTQIA+ non-profit, we also compete with national/global LGBTQIA+ organizations for limited corporate funding and individual donors.

The primary source of Rainbow’s funding is public grants, but they are insufficient to cover operational costs because they are restricted to direct program services. Please, join us to help “Save Rainbow” by donating and sharing our fundraising campaign with your networks. You can also be our champion by making your donation a monthly recurring one.

Jonathan Lee is Interim Executive Director of the Rainbow Commuity Center. For more information, visit www.rainbowcc.org.

LAURA HOFFMEISTER

CONCORD MAYOR November is Homeless Awareness Month. The January 2023 Point in Time Count released this summer showed the number of unsheltered people in Concord increased from 160 to 241 over last year.

While almost all cities face this challenge, we recognize its impact in Concord and are working on more strategies to address it.

Challenges include that 65% of the homeless selfreport that their homelessness is the result of a substance use disorder or mental health condition. With various state laws that decriminalized and established voluntary treatment for such, it can be difficult to have them voluntarily connect to resources and organizations that can help them. However, we know that just doing nothing is not the solution.

We have set aside one-time funds of $5.4 million to address homelessness, $2.4 million from the voterapproved Measure V sales tax and the balance from federal

aid from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

In March, we launched an effort to develop a strategic plan with the guidance of a community working group, which has met monthly since March and shared its progress several times this year with the City Council at public meetings. We discussed goals at the Nov. 7 council meeting.

We are also hosting community meetings to seek your feedback at 6 p.m. Nov. 15 via Zoom and in person at 6 p.m.

Nov. 16 at the Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. A Homeless Strategic Plan meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Nov 27 at the Senior Center.

The council will hear the draft plan at a public meeting on Jan. 23. The next step is to prioritize and develop strategies to implement the plan, including identification of potential ongoing funding sources.

This fiscal year, we have invested $500,562 to programs that provide services – such as Contra Costa Crisis Center, Community Outreach Teams, Food Bank, Rapid Rehousing Program, Trinity Center Day Program and RotaCare Mobile Health Clinic.

We recognize that encamp-

ments are one of the unfortunate challenges with homelessness. Where there are public safety issues, our teams are often able to clean those up in partnership with the CORE outreach team that offers services to the homeless.

If you need to report an encampment that you believe is a public safety issue, we encourage you to use our Concord Connect mobile app.

Homelessness is clearly one of the largest challenges facing our community, and many people are working hard to develop effective, compassionate solutions. I encourage you to join our community meetings, attend a working group meeting or council meeting. You can also email your comments to HomelessStrategicPlan@cityofconcord.org.

With Thanksgiving coming up, please consider volunteering or helping with many of our community organizations that provide food and meals for those less fortunate. They include the Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, Salvation Army, Monument Crisis Center and local churches that provide food pantries and meal services. The Food Bank also has collection barrels year-round

at local library branches and will have ones in some major grocery stores soon. Check www.foodbankccs.org for locations.

WEAPONS STATION PROGRESS ,

PLUS TREE LIGHTING

Another current City Council effort is the Concord Naval Weapons Station base reuse project. We selected Brookfield as the Master Developer on Aug. 26. They will be providing an update on their preliminary outreach and draft Term Sheet of what their vision is during the City Council’s public meeting on Nov. 14.

At our Jan. 16 public meeting, we hope to adopt the Term Sheet – a type of contract to allow them to move forward in the community planning and environmental review process, which is expected to take one to two years.

Meanwhile, mark your calendar for the Concord Tree Lighting event, 5:30-8 p.m.

Dec. 1 at Todos Santos Plaza.

Direct your questions and comments to the mayor at 925-6713158 or Laura.Hoffmeister@cityofconcord.org.

Quick tips to keep thieves at bay As we approach the holiday season and the longer dark hours that come with it, thefts are once again beginning to ramp up.

Here are a few things you can do to help deter theft: Lock vehicles and don’t leave valuables inside them, especially in plain view. Most thieves look for unlocked vehicles, but if they see valuable items inside (purse, laptop, wallet, etc.), they will force entry.

Don’t leave mail in your mailbox for several days. If you don’t have a locking mail-

RICHARD MCEACHIN

CHIEF OF POLICE CLAYTON

box, try to remove the mail daily so that it is empty

overnight.

Pick up packages from your porch as soon as possible. Online ordering is convenient, but the longer packages are left on your front porch, the more likely they are to be taken.

Report theft to the police department. Posting on social media is great for helping to alert your neighbors, but notifying the police department helps as well. We can’t investigate if we aren’t aware of it.

Keep the garage door closed unless you are outside where you can monitor it. An

open garage door is a welcome sign for thieves. Also, don’t leave a garage door opener in a vehicle if the vehicle isn’t going to be parked inside the garage. Thieves will break into your car to get the remote and open your garage door.

Thank you for reading this article. Please pass this info to your friends and loved ones, wherever they live.

Send questions and comments to the chief at richard.mceachin@clayton.ci.gov

Community-centered Contra Costa 2045: Your input matters Imagine a Contra Costa in 2045 that is an inclusive community where residents feel safe and secure in their homes.

Housing is affordable at all income levels. Each community has benefitted from an equitable, growing economy that is sustainable and just. All residents enjoy clean air and have access to safe and reliable public transportation. The county’s natural landscapes are still preserved. Civic actions reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved community resilience and adapted to climate change.

The 2045 Contra Costa County General Plan seeks to make this vision a reality.

For the first time since 1991, the county is updating it General Plan. The 2045 General Plan is the county’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in unincorporated areas over the next 20 years.

The Department of Conservation and Development

(DCD) has led this update process, which started in 2018. DCD held 35 workshops with policymakers and advisors, 97 community and stakeholder meetings which 1,270 people attended, and 4,600 comments were submitted online.

Out of the input, four major themes emerged to guide the 2045 General Plan: environmental justice, community health, economic development and sustainability.

The environmental justice policies expressed in the 2045 General Plan are meant to improve the quality of life and health outcomes of communities that have experienced historic discrimination, pollution, and social and economic disadvantages.

The community health policies promote healthy lifestyles and reduce exposure to pollutants. The economic development policies aim to develop the county’s workforce, and support and attract sustainable businesses

that create living wage jobs.

The sustainability policies encourage the conservation of natural resources, improve resiliency, reduce pollution and protect the environment.

DCD has released the draft 2045 General Plan, where eight elements address the four major themes: stronger communities; land use; transportation; conservation, open space and working lands; public facilities and services; health and safety; growth management; and housing.

Land use will examine the planned uses for each parcel in the unincorporated areas.

It should be noted that each incorporated city has its own general plan for parcels within city limits. The land use section looks at the development standards and density for future development.

Since each unincorporated community has unique characteristics and specific needs, the 2045 General Plan includes 22 community pro-

KEN CARLSON

COUNTY

SUPERVISOR files. These set a vision for the specific needs of each of the unincorporated communities. The community of Contra Costa Centre is included in District IV. With these significant updates and changes, I encourage all county residents to provide input and submit your comments on the 2045 General Plan at https://envisioncontracosta2040.org. Here you will find draft plans and upcoming public meetings that you are welcome to attend. The deadline for submitting comments is Jan. 31, 2024.

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

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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

November 10, 2023

S PORT S

Red Devils join Spartans, Ugly Eagles in NCS football playoffs task against Acalanes (6-4) in Lafayette in Division IV play.

The Concord team is seeded The North Coast Section seventh in the eight-team brackfootball playoffs get underway et and Acalanes is No. 2.

Friday and Clayton Valley CharTOUGH DRAW FOR ter and De La Salle are taking RED DEVILS part. If that sounds familiar, it’s The Dons looked like they because that happens every fall. had the Diablo Athletic League What doesn’t happen as Foothill title all to themselves often is Mt. Diablo joining their entering the fourth quarter last two Concord counterparts in the Friday with a two-touchdown playoffs.

De La Salle has won the Sec- lead over Campolindo. When tion championship every season the final whistle blew Campo since 1992 (of course, no play- won 25-24 so Acalanes has to offs were held in 2020) and over share the title with Campo and the years Clayton Valley Charter Las Lomas, all three teams at 5has been a perennial playoff 1.

The Red Devils took second team as well, winning three NCS to Alhambra in the DAL Valley titles between 2012 and 2015 as Division. well as a 2-AA State ChampiSenior runningback Herschel onship in 2019.

Turner has been the story all seaThe playoffs begin Friday son for Mt. Diablo. In the final with Diablo and Clayton Valley regular season game last Saturon the road and De La Salle (8day in Walnut Creek Turner 2) beginning its post-season at scored five touchdowns and home to James Logan (6-4) of rushed for 415 yards in a 55-40 Union City in Open Division.

CVCHS (5-5) has a rematch shootout win over Berean Chrisof an East Bay Athletic League tian. He’s now compiled nearly game from two weeks in San 3000 yards on the ground and Ramon against California (6-4). over 40 touchdowns in a recordThe Ugly Eagles won that game setting season.

Acalanes quarterback Sully 33-24 to cap a three-game winBailey has passed for over 2000 ning streak before they were yards so there will be quite a overrun last Friday by De La contrast in offensive approaches Salle 48-0. in Lafayette Friday night.

Mt. Diablo (7-3), which has most recently been in the 2014 CLAYTON VALLEY IN and 2021 playoffs, faces a tall DIVISION I PLAYOFFS Nick Tisa, first-year head coach of the Ugly Eagles, has seen his team be on a roller coaster this fall reaching the playoffs with a .500 record.

They were able to beat the Grizzlies in the team’s first meeting and have to go back to San Ramon for the rematch. Clayton Valley proved slightly better as a road team this year so the trip down 680 might not be as daunting as many teams would view it.

CVCHS needs to put the De La Salle game out of its AIDAN VANHOOSE mind after falling behind 41-0

High has yet to win a game this decade. The 0-10 Wolves last won in October 2019 when the then-Warriors were an NCS playoff team.

JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

MT. DIABLO HIGH

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SCORES Playoff Schedule – Nov. 11 Mt. Diablo (7-3) at Acalanes (6-4) Clayton Valley Charter (5-5) at California (6-4) James Logan (6-4) at De La Salle (8-2)

Pete Cruz

Senior defensive back Kaleo Augustin (24) intercepted a pass in the end zone intended for Clayton Valley Charter’s Tony Keck (9) to preserve De La Salle’s second shutout on the final play of the regular season. The Spartans defeated their Ugly Eagles rivals 48-0 in a game that featured a running clock throughout the second half. Both teams are headed for the North Coast Section playoffs that begin this weekend.

in the first half and had a running clock the remainder of the game.

The Ugly Eagles offense has been a shared experience this year with brothers Tyson and Mason Lovett both playing quarterback and Hayezon Jackson, Jahson Jones and Justin Underwood all getting enough carries to combine for over 1000 yards on the ground.

Clayton Valley Charter is seeded fourth, one spot behind Pittsburg in Division I Open Division top seed De La Salle lost the first two games of the season and faced a difficult series of opponents ahead, but as so often happens, the Spartans improved over the course of the season and now ride an eight-game winning streak into the playoffs as they seek NCS championship No. 31 in a row.

Should they win their opener they will most likely have a rematch of last month’s Friday the 13th overtime thriller with San Ramon Valley that DLS

Athlete Spotlight Marina Miller School: Carondelet High Grade: Senior Sports: Volleyball, Beach Vollyball

Marina Miller began playing club volleyball at the age of 12 and has continued to participate in both volleyball and beach volleyball during her four years at Carondelet.

She has kept up with her training away from the school with the Xceleration Volleyball Club in Martinez and hopes to continue playing the sport next year at a Division III college. A two-year varsity starter at outside hitter, Miller recently completed her final volleyball season when the No. 5 seed Cougars lost a back and forth five-set quarterfinal match to fourth seed Campolindo in the Division II North Coast Section playoffs. As a sophomore she was the Carondelet JV team’s MVP while leading her squad in kills, hitting percentage and blocks. Her high school sports career isn’t over as she’ll be on the Cougar varsity beach volleyball team this spring before graduation.

The senior says, "Being a part of the Carondelet volleyball program has been the biggest blessing and one that I will be forever grateful for. My coaches Jerry Mix and Kelly Ruff have played a huge role in who I am today. They are always there to support me and the team and I know they are always looking out for us, on and off the volleyball court. Volleyball has been such a big part of my life and has taught me the importance of teamwork and being able to trust those

around you. It has helped me focus on what I can do better in order for the team to succeed."

The Pleasant Hill resident wants to pursue a degree in exercise science in college, hoping to be a physical therapist. She will be starting a sports medicine internship soon, allowing her to shadow school athletic trainers supporting one of Carondelet's spring sports teams. Miller has maintained a 4.0 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society. Outside of school and sports, she has spent time with her family volunteering at Shelter, Inc. in Martinez, cooking meals for women and their children who are escaping abusive domestic situations or drug abuse.

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

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

won in the extra period 33-27.

The winner of the Open Division moves on to the State playoffs while the loser will meet the Division I winner to determine the other State rep in the upper divisions from NCS. ROUGH GOING FOR LOCAL SCHOOLS

For the other four local schools, the 2023 football season was a tough go.

College Park jumped out of the box with two victories then the Falcons suffered six straight

defeats before closing the season with a pair of wins for a 4-6 overall mark.

Northgate had an even more unusual season with seven successive losses before the Broncos rebounded by scoring nearly 100 points while winning their final three games.

Concord High finished with the same 3-7 mark as Northgate.

The final season of Minuteman football sprinkled their three wins between three two-game losing streaks.

And finally, Ygnacio Valley

Week 10 Scores – Nov. 3-4 Northgate (2-7) 36, Benicia 0 College Park (3-6) 35, Alhambra 28 Mt. Diablo (6-3) 48, Berean Christian 25 De La Salle (7-2) 48, Clayton Valley Charter (5-4) 0 Concord (3-7), Ygnacio Valley (0-10) seasons completed SEASON SCHEDULES

Clayton Valley Charter (Open Div./Div. 1) - 8/25 W 17-0 at Salinas, 9/1 L 27-37 HigleyGilbert, AZ, 9/9 L 0-28 at Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills, 9/15 W 21-14 at Turlock, 9/29 L 0-26 Jesuit-Carmichael, 10/6 L 7-35 San Ramon Valley, 10/13 W 41-29 Foothill-Pleasanton, 10/20 W 3935 Monte Vista-Danville, 10/27 W 33-24 at California-San Ramon, 11/3 L 0-48 at De La Salle, 11/10 at California-San Ramon.

See Football, page 10

CVCHS grad Dylan White wins college cross country title for Chico State Dylan White, a 2018 Clayton Valley Charter grad, led cross country Division II powerhouse Chico State to the California Collegiate Athletic Association men’s cross country championship last month.

White finished the five-mile course in a time of 24:41 and helped his Wildcat men’s team capture their 21st consecutive conference title. With that first-place finish, White was also named the Conference Runner of the Year.

Long-time Chico coach Gary Towne said, “It’s hard to imagine a more deserving champion than Dylan. A class act...amazing team leader, a hard worker, and selfless teammate. A year ago, Dylan enjoyed an amazing summer of training, only to pick up an early fall injury that took out his entire (junior) fall season. This year he’s returned and has been a solid #3 runner for us. On Saturday, with a lot on the line he led his

Photo courtesy Chico State Athletics

Senior Dylan White is a key part of the juggernaut that is Chico State cross country. Clayton Valley Charter grad White won the recent conference championship race and then last Saturday helped the Wildcats to their seventh straight NCAA Division II men’s title. Their earlier CCAA team championship was the 21st in a row for Chico.

crew to a big victory.”

Last Saturday, Chico continued its great run with a seventh successive NCAA Division II Western Regional championship in Oregon.

White finished fifth at

Regionals, earning his first All-West Region team honor.

As West Region champs, the Wildcats secured another berth to the NCAA Division II Championships Nov. 18 Joplin, Missouri.

Mt. Diablo High feted 2023 Sports Hall of Fame class last weekend

Photo courtesy Mt. Diablo High School Sports Hall of Fame

Mt. Diablo High School’s 2023 Sports Hall of Fame class honored a team, a coach and five athletes whose careers spanned four decades at the Concord school at the induction dinner last Saturday evening. Receiving the special honor from the area’s oldest school were, from left, Randy Schrader (brother Ron standing in for his late brother), Steve Bordi and Lloyd Crenna for 1957 baseball team (two of only three living teammates along with Dave Stafford from the championship squad), Katie Bachman Norlin, coach Howard Breivik (daughter Lisa Breivik Hess standing in for her late father), Marcos Pica and Barry Maynard. Also honored was the late Dave Aldrich.

November 10, 2023

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Page 9

Clayton Valley Charter girls make history as first-ever DAL flag football champions JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Athlete Spotlight

Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Charter Athletics

Clayton Valley Charter girls made history winning the inaugural Diablo Athletic League flag football championship and then followed that up taking the Division II title at the post-season Tournament of Champions in overtime.

Bay leagues decided to have an unofficial Tournament of Champions for the top two teams in each league. Clayton Valley won the automatic berth from the DAL. League commissioner Mark Tran had planned a seasonending jamboree to wrap up the year for the first-time program before talk of a post-season ever took place.

It was decided the DAL Jamboree would serve as the way to determine the other league representative at TOC.

Clayton Valley was shut out in its jamboree opener by College Park. Eventually, Acalanes and College Park played for the Jaboree title with the Dons winning 6-0.

Based on enrollment, Clayton Valley was placed in Division II at the TOC. The Ugly Eagles defeated Heritage 46-12 in the semi-finals and beat Acalanes 12-6 in overtime to claim the historic championship when sophomore Reagan Richards-Costello made a diving touchdown catch on

Photo courtesy Northgate High Athletics

Northgate took the Diablo Athletic League Foothill Division golf championship and qualified for the North Coast Section Division I tournament. The Bronco golfers, from left, are AJ Esver, Audrey Cheng, Cami Barajas, Armani Starke, Rihanna Naemi and Mischa Peña.

Cheng and Starke tied for the team’s low score at NCS.

CVC’s first play of overtime to win the title.

BRONCOS WIN THREE DAL TITLES

Northgate boys and girls won Diablo Athletic League Vally Division water polo titles and both teams advanced to the NCS playoffs., The boys lost in the second round of Division II while the Bronco girls are in the semi-finals of Division I this week.

College Park is in the boys D-II semis this week facing Redwood, which eliminated Northgate in the last round.

De La Salle is two-time defending Open Division champs but are seeded second to No. 1 Miramonte in Saturday’s championship game, which will be the third straight years they’ve met for the title.

Carondelet was eliminated by top seed Miramonte for the second season in a row in the NCS Open semi-finals.

Girl’s Golf - Northgate’s girls won the DAL Foothill title, earning them a spot at the NCS Division I championships.

Carondelet finished third at NCS to make it to this week’s Northern California golf championships.

Girls Volleyball – Carondelet made it to the second round of the NCS Division playoffs before losing a five-set match to Campolindo. Northgate fell to American in the opening round.

Steve Stokes tabbed to lead Carondelet sports program as director of athletics JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Carondelet this month announced that Steve Stokes is the new director of athletics at the all-girls school in Concord.

He comes to Carondelet after previous stints as athletic director at New Roads School in Santa Monica, Providence School in Santa Barbara and the Boys & Girls Club in Simi Valley. He was recently recognized by the CIF Southern Section as an MVP Athletics Director in the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 school years.

He also worked in the Athletics Compliance Department at the University of California Santa Barbara where he helped track NCAA Division I student-athletes eligibility and financial aid for the 20 sports offered while monitoring recruiting activity for all potential student-athletes.

Stokes has spent 17 years as a head basketball coach and was a seven-time league coach of the year, leading his teams to six league championships and two CIF championship finals.

“We were impressed by Steve’s commitment to increase opportunities and access for women to compete at high levels of sport in his past work. We are excited for him to continue that passion at Carondelet,” said school president Jessica Mix. Jennifer Reinwald, Carondelet VP of student life and mission, added, “Steve was consistently our top candidate from the first interview through the entire extensive vetting process. His communication and people skills, significant experience as an athletics director and his ability to lead teams and shape student-athletes were top qualities that we were looking for in our next AD candidate.”

Stokes takes over a highly successful athletic program at the Concord school. Carondelet sponsors 36 teams in 18 sports with over half the student body taking part while those student athletes maintain an average GPA of 3.67, according to school records.

In Carondelet’s 58 years, the school has won 63 North Coast Section team and 143 league

STEVE STOKES NEW CARONDELET AD

championships, 15 national cheer and dance championships, seven Northern California team titles, three state team and three individual state championships, two national team championships and one national individual title.

Stokes succeeds Piper Brewster, who served in the job the past two years before returning this summer to her collegiate athletics administration career as Associate Commissioner of Governance/ SWA position in the PacWest Conference. Since long-time

Carondelet AD Gleam Green retired in the spring of 2015 Stokes is the sixth person to hold the position.

Stokes says one of the things that drew him to Carondelet is that “the incredible memories, moments and experiences the Carondelet studentathletes have are a significant part of their journey to set them up for success in life. It is special to be a part of the Carondelet community,” said Stokes. “And with two young daughters, developing greater opportunities for women is both a professional and personal commitment.

“I am looking forward to working closely with our coaches, the athletics department and everyone on campus striving together to support our teams and student-athletes in reaching their goals.”

He earned a Master of Arts, Coaching and Athletics Administration degree Summa Cum Laude from Concordia University in Irvine and a Bachelor of Arts, Kinesiology from California State University Dominguez Hills.

Maya Canada Grade: Senior School: Clayton Valley Charter Sports: Water Polo, Swimming Maya Canada has been making a splash in the worlds of swimming and water polo for almost 13 years. She started swimming as a small child just for fun. It wasn’t until she began playing water polo for club team Diablo Alliance that she became more serious about her water sports. In her youth, Canada also played soccer, mostly as a goalkeeper, which translated into her water polo career primarily playing goalie in the pool. This season, Canada has blocked 102 shots, which is not only impressive for Clayton Valley Charter but she is currently ranked 14th in the nation with a goals against average of 9.8. For all four years in high school Canada has been on varsity water polo and swimming. She is also a team captain and, as her coach Ernie Minglana says, has “the courage to step up. . . and tell me how she sees it. She has a great pulse on the team. Maya is respected by her peers and by all of the adults she interacts with.” In just four years, Canada has accomplished many feats in swimming as well, including winning several Diablo Athletic League Championship meets in 100 breaststroke and placing top 20 at North Coast Section. She’s also earned high point honors in her age group during summer swim season. Canada strives to prove that CVCHS has strong swimmers who work hard, in and out of the pool. She is part of the school’s Outdoor Adventure Club and holds a 3.6 GPA. Next fall, Canada is looking to attend DVC with the hope of transferring to a four-year school to complete her education.

CVCHS student journalist Corinne Jeandheur wrote this Spotlight.

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

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

925-381-3757

Lic.# 958849

Clayton Valley Charter football has been in its glory days during the past dozen years with three North Coast Section championships and then a 2019 State title, but the school’s girls flag football team made its own kind of history last Saturday.

This fall California introduced girls flag football as a sanctioned sport. The 7v7 game was picked up by many schools but an uncertainty about just how many schools would be taking part caused the state sanctioning body, CIF, to not schedule any postseason play.

The Diablo Athletic League was one of many Bay Area leagues to have a flag football schedule with 10 schools taking part and Mt. Diablo joining in at the end of the season.

The games were held in a three-team format with each school playing two games on Wednesday.

Clayton Valley Charter and Northgate ended the season with 8-1 records, two games ahead of College Park and Acalanes. In a critical twogame series Oct. 18 the Ugly Eagles edged College Park 7-6 and Northgate 20-16 to effectively claim the first-ever league championship.

During the year, four East

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Page 10

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

November 10, 2023

Give where you live – and support Concord businesses local also means less waste, usually better quality, interaction with other humans and the satisfaction of knowing my money stays in my community and allows people to pursue their passion while supporting themselves.

We all experience the convenience of getting everything we need delivered right to our doorstep, and I, like you, believe KEVIN CABRAL that is great for saving time and CHAMBER OF sometimes money. In many COMMERCE cases, it gives us access to certain products that we otherwise It is said all the time but may have to wait weeks to worth repeating: Shop local. receive or even find.

What does that mean to you Now I am by no means a and what are the results for the stat guy or someone who is community? going to quote percentages of For me, shopping locally how much money goes into the means sometimes I must go out local economy when you buy of my way, possibly park a local. I’m also not going to problock away, plan a little. Shop vide data suggesting that all the

trash and pollution created by door-to-door delivery is killing our planet and local businesses.

But what I can tell you is that shopping locally is a good thing.

Over the past few years, the Concord Chamber has had the honor of assisting the city of Concord in distributing more than $1.5 million in federal, state and local grant money. All the businesses that received the grant money were owned and operated locally. They were print shops, construction companies, restaurants, salons, retail

shops, bookstores, furniture stores, toy stores, house cleaners, day care centers, auto shops … the list goes on and on.

These businesses are the backbone of the community, run by hardworking Concordian’s who continue to survive and thrive year after year. They stay afloat because the community chooses to shop locally and support its neighbors, even if it means taking a few extra steps.

For small businesses, the competition is fierce – locally, regionally and even globally.

The key to success lies in providing exceptional customer service and fair pricing while creating an environment that people genuinely enjoy while spending their money.

Supporting these local businesses is not just about buying products; it is about investing in the heart and soul of your community.

So, as you make your purchases this holiday season and into the future, consider the impact of your choices. Shopping locally is not just a catchy

Understanding chronic inflamation

immune system indelibly etched into our psyches.

Chronic inflammation, however, is quite another story.

The immune system functions like a superbly run military force. Following injury or infecCollege Park (Div. 3) – 8/25 W 14-0 at Fremont-Oakland, 9/8 tion, the injured tissue sends up W 49-14 at Oakmont-Roseville, 9/15 L 12-38 at Antioch, 9/22 L 0-56 a chemical distress flair.

Acalanes-Lafayette, 9/29 L 12-21 Miramonte, 10/6 L 21-49 at CamImmune system cells respond polindo, 10/13 L 0-41 Las Lomas, 10/20 L 27-31 Northgate, 10/27 by essentially launching a miliNATHALIE MONTIJO W 26-20 OT at Benicia, 11/3 W 35-28 Alhambra. tary campaign bent on the anniConcord (Div. 4) - 8/25 L 0-41 at Newark Memorial-Newark, 9/1 N EW WAVE hilation of the problem.

L 0-49 at Alameda, 9/8 W 26-21 San Lorenzo, 9/14 L 0-24 Archie Granted, this is a gross Williams-San Anselmo, 9/22 W 36-34 Mt. Eden-Hayward, 9/29 L 0NIGHTINGALE oversimplification of a multilay43 Alhambra, 10/6 L 12-48 Las Lomas, 10/13 W 32-6 at Ygnacio Valered and sublimely elegant set ley, 10/21 L 14-46 at Berean Christian, 10/27 L 26-48 Mt. Diablo.

The term inflammation of processes, but the result is a De La Salle (Open Div./Div. 1) – 8/25 L 14-35 Orange Lutherantemporarily war-torn landscape.

Orange, 9/2 L 0-28 at Serra-San Mateo, 9/8 W 35-17 at Saint Fran- dates to ancient Rome, where cis-Mountain View, 9/15 W 24-10 St. Mary's-Stockton, 9/22 W 14-7 physicians noted that injuries in When the job is done, the at Folsom, 9/29 W 21-0 McClymonds-Oakland, 10/13 33-27 OT at the healing stage were generally immune system is designed to San Ramon Valley, 10/20 W 31-12 El Cerrito, 10/27 W 31-7 at Monte swollen, painful and reddened. quiet itself and stand down.

Vista–Danville, 11/3 W 48-0 Clayton Valley Charter, 11/10 James The verb inflammare (to When it doesn’t, another set of Logan. set on fire) is, in fact, the root. problems present.

Mt. Diablo (Div. 4) - 8/25 W 39-28 Deer Valley, 9/1 W 40-14 MisAcute inflammation Chronic inflammation sets sion-San Francisco, 9/8 L 27-31 at Oakland Tech, 9/15 W 53-20 San includes the onset of redness in when the immune response Lorenzo, 9/22 W 36-33 at Castlemont-Oakland, 10/6 W 49-22 Ygnaand swelling around an injury, continues in the absence of cio Valley, 10/13 L 47-49 at Alhambra, 10/20 L 17-26 Benicia, 10/27 as well as the more intricate infection or injury. Unlike W 48-26 at Concord, 11/4 W 55-40 at Berean Christian, 11/10 at immune responses to infecacute inflammation, the signs Acalanes. of a chronic process are insidNorthgate (Div. 3) - 8/25 L 10-35 at Reno, 9/1 L 42-44 Tamal- tion. Without a speedy and pais-Mill Valley, 9/8 L 0-40 Twelve Bridges-Lincoln, 9/22 L 27-28 at efficient immune response, ious and can manifest gradualMiramonte, 9/29 L 31-38 at Las Lomas, 10/6 L 13-54 at Acalanes, the simplest injury or weakest ly over time.

10/13 L 14-35 Campolindo, 10/20 W 31-27 at College Park, 10/27 infection could become devasAccording to internal medW 28-17 Alhambra, 11/3 W 36-0 Benicia. tating. Those of us old icine physician Ketan Amin of Ygnacio Valley (Div. 6) – 8/26 L 6-34 Alameda, 9/1 L 0-38 at enough to have seen legions Novant Health, patients “may Lower Lake, 9/9 L 26-48 Kennedy-Richmond, 9/15 L 8-27 Washing- of previously vibrant people not even realize they have an ton-San Francisco, 9/23 L 8-20 at Galileo-San Francisco, 9/29 L 6-56 develop full-blown AIDS have inflammatory condition, at Pinole Valley, 10/6 L 22-49 at Mt. Diablo, 10/13 L 6-32 Concord, the importance of the because it’s a subtle change 10/20 L 0-65 at Alhambra, 10/27 L 8-56 Berean Christian.

that occurs over weeks, months and even years, so they’re just dealing with the symptoms, like fatigue, every day. And, day after day, it gets a little bit worse.”

Left untreated, chronic inflammation can promote the development of serious diseases such as diabetes and cancer.

Dr. Deepak Chopra, a pioneer proponent of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), believes that inflammation is the No. 1 pandemic of our times right now.

“Stress, inflammation, depression, anxiety and chronic disease go together. Inflammation is the culprit in all these diseases,” he says.

Chopra believes that trauma plays a pivotal role.

“The rise in mental health problems and chronic stress is related to the body’s response to trauma, which can stem from generational trauma, isolation or the stress of the news cycle.”

According to Chopra, attempting to untie these threads is “a very daunting task.” But he offers some practical suggestions to promote a healthy lifestyle and reduce inflammation:

Football, from page 8

phrase; it’s a call to action to fortify your community and ensure its prosperity for years to come.

Check what we have going on at concordchamber.com.

I encourage you to reach out to anyone of us at the chamber, and I look forward to connecting with you at one of the chamber’s many functions and events that Concord has to offer. We can be reached in person at 925-685-1181 or at www.concordchamber.com/ contact.

Sleep. Most adults require seven to nine hours to function optimally.

De-stress. Meditation, exercise, art, a hobby, and even the practice of Gratitude can bring down stress levels and calm the mind and body.

Remain emotionally connected to others. Isolation and loneliness are significant risk factors for many health conditions. Volunteering, community engagement and making time to be of even minimal service is tremendously beneficial.

Seek out moments of joy. Sights, songs, people, animals, food – anything constructive that feeds the spirit and delights the heart.

Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. There are many from which to choose. While plantbased is my recommendation, that is often easier said than done. The Cleveland Clinic is an excellent resource to introduce the options. Find out more at https://health.clevelandclinic.org/anti-inflammatory-diet-can-relieve-pain-age.

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

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November 10, 2023

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Being thankful for free and independent public libraries I’ve reviewed Truman fallen prey to the politicians Capote’s “The Thanksgiving and activists who dishonor Visitor” many times, using it readers and fellow citizens. as an intro to holiday book Not all of us can afford reading and collecting. But to have a favorite bookstore, this year, I wanted to talk and we don’t need to. about how thankful I am Libraries are the last free that readers of the The Piobastions of public education. neer still have public libraries I am also grateful that without restraints.

The Pioneer continues to I am grateful that Califorgrow its readership. Contra SUNNY SOLOMON nia is a state that trusts the Costa County is wonderfully intelligence of its readers. A diverse, economically, ethniBOOKIN’ WITH reader doesn’t have to be a cally and sexually. The books SUNNY liberal or conservative, I review are my choice. I young or old, gay or straight, may no longer live in Calies with derision or disbelief. degreed or non-degreed. But fornia, but I am excited to The key words are “perin today’s world, librarians see Contra Costa’s growth sonal choices.” Which books and to know that there is a citizen chooses to read, still a local newspaper buy or to encourage others reporting on both sides of to read is, or should be, a local issues. deeply held right in a civiI also enjoy the advertiselized society. ments, because each ad is If you are a parent, proof that reading, yes, even grandparent or relative of a the ads, is good for business. young reader, it is always And what’s good for local your right to choose books businesses is good for everyyou believe to be worthwhile body. for that child to read. HowI am grateful for the right ever, in our society, no citito read newspapers and zen has the right to tell me, books. I’ve always measured my children or grandchildren a person’s intelligence not by what they can and cannot the level of their education, read. but the level of their depth So, I am deeply grateful of curiosity, to read, to that books of my choosing, learn, to think. and yes, yours too, are still are often being told which available in my favorite books they may shelve, in You can read Solomon’s libraries. I feel just as strongother words, which books review of Capote’s “The Thanksly about the books available are available to you in your giving Visitor” on her website at to children in public schools. public libraries and public www.bookinwithsunny.com. Sunny If I want to understand difSolomon is a freelance writer and school libraries as well – ficult or, frankly, abhorrent head of the Clayton Book Club. libraries paid for with your subjects, I am grateful for tax dollars. public libraries that have not As a bookseller for more than 12 years, I grew to respect all readers. I might Please let our advertisers shake my head at titles that I wouldn’t look at twice, but know you saw them in the Pioneer. there were a lot of folks who looked at my personal choicTo advertise, call 925.672.0500

Page 11

The holidays are an amazing time for fun with friends and family, but if you’re caring for for som meone with dementia, it can be stressfull - for for both you and a the individual you care fo for. Join us for for a virtuall event fe featuring g Erinn Drouin, Community y Educatorr for for the Alzheimer’s Association, h Nebraska Chapter. She’lll provide advice that willl help you make yourr holidays enjoyable for for all.

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Page 12

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November 10, 2023

T HE ARTS

Finding the spirit of the season at the Lesher Center

SALLY HOGARTY

STAGE STRUCK The wonderful Laurie Roldan has put together another holiday cabaret with “Laurie Sings a Song for You Christmas,” performing 7:15 p.m. Nov. 30 and 2:15 and 7:15 p.m. Dec. 1 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. It’s a nostalgic evening inspired by the music of Karen Carpenter as well as Andy Williams’ favorites, with featured guest Johnny

Laurie Roldan presents her Christmas special Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at the Lesher Center.

Full of song, dance and colorful costumes, Center Rep’s “A Christmas Carol” is a holiday tradition for many families.

Orenberg. If you’ve never seen Roldan perform, get ready for a feel-good event with poignant, funny stories and beautiful singing that will jumpstart your holidays.

Joining Roldan and Orenberg onstage are singers Julia Ludwig, Jordan Smith, Katherine Stein and Ali Xavior Travis, accompanied by Dan Levitan on harp and Joyce Lee on violin. Evan Crone is the musical director and Ashley Cowl the choreographer.

To keep that holiday feeling going, don’t miss Center Repertory’s “A Christmas Carol” Dec. 7-21 at the Lesher. This has become a holiday tradition for many families with its special effects, wonderful music, dance and, of course, the

well-known story of Scrooge and Tiny Tim. If dance is your passion, the Lesher Center has it in spades beginning with Smuin’s holiday extravaganza “The Christmas Ballet” Nov. 18-19. Contra Costa Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” follows Nov. 24-26.

December begins with the Ballet School’s “Once Upon a Christmas” Dec. 1-2.

The fully narrated ballet is based on a Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble story about a clumsy elf who learns selfconfidence thanks to the dolls and other toys in Santa’s workshop.

For tickets to the above shows, call 925-943-7469 or go to www.lesherartscenter.org.

You can still catch the

final performances of Ghostlight Theatre Ensemble’s “You Can’t Take It With You.” The Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman comedy runs through Nov. 12 at the Theatre at Edna Hill, 140 Birch St., Brentwood.

Join the eccentric but lovable Sycamore family as they go about their carefree lifestyle. Chaos reigns, however, when Alice Sycamore’s love interest shows up for dinner with his very conservative parents. Michael Wilson directs the large cast of local performers.

Call 925-852-3612 or go to www.ghostlightte.org.

It’s “Improv Partners in Crime” at the Martinez Campbell Theater at 2:30 p.m. Nov. 12, with special

guest Tim Orr. For more improvisation, return to the Campbell at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18 for “Improv for Good.”

The theater is at 363 Ward St. For more information, go to www.campbelltheater.com.

Pittsburg Theatre Compa-

ny will present Disney’s popular “Frozen Jr” 7 p.m. Dec. 8 and 2 and 4:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at the California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg.

It features all the memorable tunes from the animated film plus five new songs written for the Broadway production. Latonya Watts directs and choreographs the show, with Sue Stuart as musical director.

The company also presents “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” at 8 p.m.

Dec. 9 and 2 p.m. Dec. 10 at the California Theatre. Additional performances will be at the Campbell Theater 8 p.m. Dec. 15 and 2:30 and 7 p.m. Dec. 16.

More information on both shows is available at www.pittsburgcommunitytheatre.org.

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

Chris Hardy

Smuin artists Nicole Haskins and Peter Kurta, center, and the company let it snow during the beloved “Christmas Ballet” Nov. 18-19 in Walnut Creek.

Rotating gallery improves our community through art If you are an artist looking for a chance to display some of your work, consider becoming a member of the Concord Art Association (CAA).

One of the many benefits that members can take advantage of is the CAA Rotating Gallery, which provides artists with an opportunity to display in public locations. The rotation occurs quarterly, when new artists are given specific spaces to display artwork.

Groups make these spaces available free to CAA, and members don’t pay any fees.

Renaye Johnson and Kim Lawson have been managing this project for the past five years, although no activity occurred during the pandemic lockdown of 2020. They have worked hard to connect local artists with public spaces to

JOHN NAKANISHI

ARTS IN MOTION display.

“It is great to have public art available to everyone to view for free,” Lawson says.

“Our artists get an opportunity to show their work, and the establishment gets new local art changed out every three months.”

Art in public places serves a unique purpose that is not

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easy to quantify. It is not like a stop sign, the purpose of which is to warn people and keep streets safe. Or like a billboard that sends a message or markets a product. Nor does art provide structural functionality like a door or a window.

But artwork in public spaces enhances the attractiveness of the community. More importantly, it cultivates a cultural identity – especially if the artists live and work in nearby neighborhoods.

When local artists put down their innermost thoughts and feelings in expressive art and it is then exposed to the public eye, people can connect with it. It improves the mood of a public space and strengthens community pride.

Fifteen CAA artists are

The Ygnacio Valley Library is among local sites showcasing work from Concord Art Association members.

currently showing at various gallery locations. Artwork includes watercolor, acrylics, oil, casein, printmaking, multimedia, pen-and-ink, pastels and pencil. Artists put up and take down their own artwork.

You can view the current artwork rotation at these five rotating gallery locations: Assemblymember Tim Grayson’s office, 2151 Salvio St., Suite P, Concord.

Concord Library, 2900

Salvio St. Contra Costa TreasurerTax Collector’s Office, 625 Court St., Room 100, Martinez.

Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek.

Mt. Diablo Center for Adult Day Health Care, 490 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill.

The Rotating Gallery Committee is actively seeking new locations to add to the rotation. For more information on that or to become a CAA member, visit concordartassociation.org or email concordartassociation@yahoo. com.

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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November 10, 2023

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Page 13

Group proves music can help keep us forever young

DAVE HUGHES

THE BEAT OF DIABLO Music undoubtedly nurtures the soul, but its benefits go well beyond simply making us feel good. When it comes to the health of your brain and your heart, music is essentially a miracle drug.

According to John Hopkins Medicine, research has shown that music can reduce anxiety, blood pressure and pain, and improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness and memory. In short, we human beings are healthier, happier people when we have music in our lives – especially as we age.

This understanding is just some of the motivation behind Ain’t Misbehavin’, a local band formed in the spring of 2022 with the intent of performing pop and jazz tunes from the 1920s, ’30s and ’40s to residents at senior liv-

ing facilities in Central and East Contra Costa County.

Vocalist and Clayton resident John Propersi explains why these residents were their target audience: “Jazz and swing songs were their ‘pop music’ of the day. They grew up listening to Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Nat King Cole. They ruled the airwaves.

We seek out the most familiar tunes as we know they’ll appreciate the music. Songs like ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ will get lots of smiles.”

Propersi shares that the crowd’s response is sometimes more lively than some might expect. “We once played the ‘Girl from Ipanema’ and got a conga line – a walker conga line.”

Backing up Propersi’s vocal work is keyboardist Dave Roberts, whose roots are in musical theater in Walnut Creek, and multi-instrumentalist Stuart Yasaki, who is usually on upright bass but also plays eight wind instruments.

Propersi’s wife Mary Mac joins on vocals when she’s not teaching at Clayton Valley Charter High School. The group often rotates in seasoned jazz performers as featured guests.

For all involved, it’s less about the musicians and more about the audience.

“The people are very fun.

Photo by John Propersi

Dave Roberts, left, Stuart Yasaki, Mary Mac Propersi and John Propersi performed as Ain’t Misbehavin’ at a New Year’s Eve celebration at a local senior living facility.

We have grown to love these groups,” exclaims Propersi, adding: “It’s amazing how many people sing along, and it’s very special to us when we play memory care facilities and they sing along as well.”

“It’s been very satisfying helping keep this great old music alive and bringing a bit of cheer to the folks who grew up with these tunes, helping them rekindle their youth,” says Roberts, who has played piano in various jazz groups for decades around the East Bay. Unlike many patrons at restaurant gigs, Roberts says the residents in these facilities are great audiences who are always excited for the live music. They are ready to be

entertained and engaged upon arrival.

“I had been wanting to do this for years and had occasionally performed at a few (senior living) places with other groups,” explains Roberts. “But until I met John last year, I hadn’t found a

ior living facility in Pleasant Hill at the time, so that was a natural venue for their first gig. She’s since moved to Merrill Gardens, where they appear monthly.

Since forming last year, Ain’t Misbehavin’ has been performing weekly at various retirement communities, assisted living centers and memory care facilities around Diablo Valley and beyond.

Some of their frequently visited venues include Brookdale in San Ramon, Sunrise in Danville, TreVista in Antioch and Concord, Carlton in Concord and Pleasant Hill, Merrill Gardens in Brentwood, Westmont in Brentwood and the Antioch Senior Center.

partner who could do it on a regular basis. It turned out John had also performed at senior venues in the past with For more information, email another pianist and was recepjohn.propersi@gmail.com. tive to giving it a go when I brought up the idea.”

Contact Dave Hughes at Propersi’s mother, Lois, MrDaveHughes@gmail.com. was living in the Carlton sen-

‘Flower Moon’ important story, yet film falls flat In the late 19th century, the Osage Nation struck oil.

Knowing they would be forever changed, they embraced the wealth bestowed upon them.

The tragedy that struck them in the 1920s is one of the most shameful displays of the 20th century when it comes to how one group of Americans treats another.

While researching the subject, director Martin Scorsese spent more than two years meticulously planning for his latest film, “Killers of the Flower Moon.”

To do justice to the Osage people, Scorsese strove to be as accurate as possible. While it probably does not need to be 215 minutes long, “Killers of the Flower Moon” certainly does right by the Osage Nation.

Leonardo DiCaprio gives a tour de force performance as sad sack Ernest Burkhart.

Recently discharged from his cooking duties in WWI, Burkhart shows up in Oklahoma to see what his uncle William (a chilling Robert De Niro) and brother Byron (Scott Shepherd) are up to.

William touts himself as a

JEFF MELLINGER

SCREEN SHOTS benevolent benefactor of the Osage. De Niro eats up every scene as William’s machinations slowly (to put it mildly) come to light.

Ernest falls for Mollie (Lily Gladstone). Mollie and her three sisters are a prominent family. She knows something is not quite right and even narrates a couple of scenes decrying the recent uninvestigated deaths of Osage members.

As Mollie’s family eventually becomes affected by mysterious events, things unravel that show the sinking levels of depravity to which people will stoop when money is involved.

Scorsese lets the film unfold at a glacial pace, so that the audience can get to really

know some of the characters.

However, Mollie’s three sisters play important roles and I found myself hardly learning anything about two of them.

There are also some minor characters, rogues and ruffians mostly, who play major roles in the third act.

At that point, much like he did in “Goodfellas,” Scorsese runs quickly through scenes involving a half dozen or so of these characters. Yet, most of the characters are so vague or underdeveloped, the payoff falls flat.

Where this film truly shines is with its portrayal of the Osage. Their harrowing true story is finally, and accurately, told. With so many backward laws coming about in school districts across the country, some may forbid the teaching of stories like this. As a history lesson, “Killers of the Flower Moon” is something that should exist in perpetuity. As a film, Scorsese has done better.

B Jeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. Email comments to editor@pioneerpublishers.com.

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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

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per day, with more events coming each month.

“We have been increasing our volume with more groups, including the Concord Chamber of Commerce putting on their Third Friday Coffee meeting,” she noted.

Gratitude Coffee Bar is not the only start-up venture in town with big dreams and aspirations. Putting her chips on the table, Nichole Simpson recently RICHARD EBER opened Roadside 22 Beer and TASTE & TELL Wine Bar. It provides a casual adult neighborhood gathering “Live with your cup half place at the shopping center on full. Create a positive space and Clayton Road and Kirker Pass. a natural setting that reminds With a friendly atmosphere one of home.” reminiscent of the iconic sitSuch philosophy appears com “Cheers,” Roadside 22 is a suitable for a gathering one welcome addition to the local might find in a church setting. leisure scene. It’s a big step forInstead, these words come ward for Simpson, having operfrom entrepreneur Amber ated a successful wedding-event Winslow, who opened Gratiplanning business for the past tude Coffee Bar and Inter13 years. sect Event Studios last March Lacking the capital to have a at Concord’s Park & Shop. quality food component, SimpWith husband Jake and son enlisted the culinary expertfriend Chuck McCallum, ise of Randy Martin’s nearby Winslow has created a new Freewheel Pizza Co. His gourconcept to compete with met delight has previously been national chains Starbucks and limited to internet sales of Peet’s Coffee. Gratitude offers about 40 orders per day. By java with unique flavor from offering his menu at Roadside high-quality beans roasted in 22, Martin is able to expand his small batches from Theory business without the huge capiCoffee in Redding. tal expenditure of opening a Their décor resembles one’s new location. living room, with sofas and Roadside 22 provides a spot tables set far apart to ensure a for people to congregate while degree of privacy. Food offersipping a glass of wine or one ings include Margherita avocado of 22 beers on tap. Adding pretoast, turkey cheese croissants, mium pizza to the equation Out the Dough cookies and should result in this place being additional items from East Bay a winner.

Bakery of Danville.

There are many other local To augment their coffeeenterprises of note, including house, they have a large meetKevin Martino’s gourmet spicy ing room that comprises Inter- peanut treats. Working out of sect Event Studios. This space his home in Concord, he has can handle large gatherings, produced these tasty products seating 250 or 150 guests for a decade. Under the label served at tables. Birthday parChef Kev’s Specialty Foods, 15 ties, weddings, Guitar Center breweries, Ace Hardware stores recitals, concerts and corporate and Los Montanas markets are events are among their growing among his clients. clientele. Winslow said the stuWith low overhead, Martino dio has averaged one booking has made a good living but says,

Jeff Eber

Nichole Simpson’s Roadside 22 Beer and Wine Bar offers a casual neighborhood gathering place in Concord.

“At some point, I would like to have my own production kitchen and storefront.”

Another local success story is Epidemic Ale’s Brewery at 150 Mason Circle, Suite J, in Concord. They started as a group of amateur beer makers who helped learn their trade at Beer, Beer & More Beer at 995 Detroit Ave. some eight years ago. Epidemic has expanded its taproom while producing a wide selection of craft beers now served at finer Bay Area restaurants and bars.

It is no coincidence that Epidemic has offered Chef Kev’s products since they opened. Peanuts and beer just seem to go together.

Also noteworthy is Angelo Lonardo and his mom Jill’s Out the Dough at 3375 Port Chicago Hwy, Suite 6, in Concord. They began selling raw cookie dough five years ago.

Since then, the business expanded with wholesale sales while adding a new location in Martinez that also serves pizza.

Small business is indeed alive and well in Concord.

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

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