Feb. 3-9, 2017, Martinez Tribune by Martinez Tribune

Police Blotter

Sports

Bulldog boys win second straight

Farewell to the Monarchs

Inside

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More calls on drugs, theft & mental illness

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Feb. 3-9, 2017 Vol. 2, No. 27 martineztribune.com

City moves forward with dredging plan Vehicle strikes gas meter, prompts twoCounty’s Democratic block evacuation Politics

Leadership elects new officers

The Democratic Leadership representing over 311,000 registered Democrats in Contra Costa County elected new officers by acclamation at its reorganization meeting on Jan. 19, the eve of Republican President Trump’s Inauguration. Also elected were members of the Executive Committee and California Democratic Party Convention delegates – these are two-year terms. “We are at the precipice of a constitutional crisis. We must stand united as Democrats to fight against Presidential Executive Orders that erode our constitutional protections. Most importantly, we must “build a bench” of progressive democratic leaders and hold elected officials accountable to the agenda of the democratic values that protects the principles of religious liberty, equality, and compassion that our nation was founded upon,” says María Alegría, Chair of the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County. “This is truly an extraordinary time for our nation, for the Democratic Party and for u

DEMOCRATS: Page 3

MARTINEZ, Calif. – City Council approved Wednesday a resolution to allocate funds to hire a consultant for a marina dredge design and study. A water depth survey of the marina was recently completed which defined the locations and amounts of siltation that has occurred in the marina since its last dredging four years ago. As suspected, the survey showed the

marina heavily impacted by silt deposits. The high-use portions of the marina were divided into five areas based on priority, with the highest priority areas including the marina entrance and fairway to the launch ramp, along with improved boat access to “B” Dock and the eastern half of “C” Dock (see map on page 3). The next highest priority areas include

improved access to all of “C” Dock and the eastern half of “D” Dock with approximately 50 additional boat slips. Staff recommended that council allocate funds to hire Anchor QEA for the design, permitting and project management of a dredging episode to take place later this year. The company has successfully completed previous u DREDGING: Page 3

Parks Board announces new director Colin Coffey chosen to lead Ward Seven, which encompasses Martinez The East Bay Regional Park District announced the appointment of Hercules resident Colin Coffey to the Ward 7 seat of the EBRPD Board of Directors. Ward 7 generally encompasses the Eastern Contra Costa County communities of Antioch, Bay Point, Bethel Island, Brentwood, Byron, Crockett, Discovery Bay, Hercules, Knightsen, Martinez, Mt. View, Oakley, Pacheco, a portion of Pinole, Pittsburg, Port Costa, Rodeo, and Vine Hill. Coffey has served on the Park District’s Park Advisory Committee twice, first appointed by former EBRPD Director Ted Radke from 2001-2009 and also appointed by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors from 2012- present. The Park Advisory Committee is a 21-member appointed citizens’ advisory group which studies issues and makes recommendations and comments on a spectrum of policy issues related to East Bay Regional Park District. Additionally, Coffey has been a volunteer

EBRPD / Courtesy

Colin Coffey, new Ward 7 Director of the East Bay Regional Park District. Ward 7 encompasses Martinez, as well as other areas in eastern Contra Costa County.

Ambassador for the parks for 12 years, representing the agency at community events and with activities in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Professionally he is an attorney specializing in public health, and a partner at the firm Archer Norris in Walnut Creek. Coffey is a past president of the Contra Costa BAR Association, longtime supporter of the John

Muir Land Trust, and member of the Regional Parks Foundation where he annually assists in providing “camperships” for underrepresented children to experience nature through camps and programs in the Regional Parks. The Park District Board received 20 applications for the seat left vacant by Diane Burgis upon her election to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors in November 2016. On Jan. 31, the EBRPD Board interviewed the three finalists and unanimously appointed Coffey. “We were extremely pleased with the caliber of all the candidates,” said EBRPD Board President Beverly Lane. “The three finalists were especially connected to EBRPD and the parks and recreation industry. Ultimately, Colin’s 16 years of experience as a deeply engaged EBRPD volunteer made him the best candidate for the seat.” Coffey will be sworn in at the regular Feb. 7 meeting of the Board of Directors.

(925) 228-1100

Charlene West, Proprietor 635 Main Street Martinez, CA 94553

Full Service Florist & Unique Gift Boutique

Goodmorning Martinez All of us at the Martinez Tribune wish subscriber Bob Lauderdale a good morning and a blessed week. Thank you for subscribing!

Quote of the Week “The February sunshine steeps your boughs and tints the buds and swells the leaves within.” – William C. Bryant Amusements....................14 Classifieds........................12 Datebook............................4 Faith...................................7 Sports.................................8 Weather...............................3

MAIN STREET SWEETS

Char’s Flower Shoppe

1-800-752-2178 (925) 228-1396

MARTINEZ, Calif. – A vehicle struck a gas meter near State’s Coffee Sunday afternoon, prompting police to evacuate two blocks in the downtown. At approximately 2 p.m. Jan. 29, a motorist was parked in the 600 block of Ward Street when the driver accidentally placed the vehicle in drive. The vehicle was running at the time, and struck a gas meter. PG&E was not able to shut the gas off at the source, so a digging crew was called to dig up and pinch the line. Meanwhile, the 600 and 700 blocks of Main Street were evacuated. The leak was capped at approximately 3:30 p.m. and all areas were opened save the 600 block of Ward Street and Alhambra Plaza, due to crews continuing to work. No injuries were reported during the incident. The driver of the vehicle was evaluated and found not to be intoxicated.

CHUCK BARBERINI

815 Main St., Martinez (925) 229-9677

REALTOR® | CalBRE#01324660 $250 donated to Alhambra High Athletics for every completed transaction!

925.963.6606 Chuck@SFBayAgents.com www.SFBayAgents.com

Chocolates, English Toffee, Caramel Apples & More! Open Mon-Sat, 11:30-5:30

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017 The Crime Blotter is compiled by Tribune staffer Danny Yoeono. For questions, email dyoeono@martineztribune.com.

Police Blotter By DANNY YOEONO Martinez Tribune The crime blotter is compiled from public record and is not confirmed by Martinez Police or any other party unless otherwise stated. Some accounts may be unfounded.

Around 6 p.m., a man in a black tracksuit entered the Dollar Tree on Arnold Drive wearing a backpack. When asked to leave it at the front register, he threw it at an employee. Must be in a hurry to pay $1 for stuff.

Tuesday, Jan. 24

Monday, Jan. 23 At 11 a.m., a man in an orange beanie threw an apple core at a Starbucks patron but missed. Could this be the same orange beanie guy from last Thursday? A woman left Contra Costa Regional Medical Center in a taxi at 3:50 p.m. after being discharged, but failed to get her IV removed first. Instructions were given for her to return to have it removed safely.

A man wearing baggy pants came into the Jack in the Box and left behind a syringe and some powder substance at 9:48 a.m. A woman in black clothing was attempting to sleep inside the Starbucks on Main Street while being asked to leave by employees. Serve her some dang coffee! At 8 p.m., a man inside Walmart was observed cutting tags off merchandise and then placing those items inside a

Contra Costa Stadium Cinemas 555 Center Ave., Martinez Showtimes for Feb. 3-5 _______________________________________________________

red backpack which also had the tag cut. He was arrested.

Wednesday, Jan. 25 12:45 a.m. Ulfinian Way. Out of control roomie. Losing it. Forty years old. No shirt. Pocket knife carrier. 3:37 a.m. Alhambra Avenue. Woman’s face slapped several times. Slapper is a woman. Association between women unknown. 6:33 a.m. Woman stated she is being targeted. Someone. Somewhere. 9:52 a.m. Amtrak Station. Java Stop. Woman. Drunk. Disturbance. 10:25 a.m. Arnold Road. McDonald’s. Man. Raiders Hat. Yelling. Throwing things. Should’ve ordered the happy meal. 2:08 p.m. Boynton Avenue. Chocolate lab. Boy chased. 6:20 p.m. Ferry Street. Man. Tattoos. Saggy pants. Holding beer. Yelling at traffic.

Thursday, Jan. 26 12:41 p.m. Pine Street. County Administration Building. Fourth floor. Man. White shirt. Red stripes. Got off elevator

thinking he was at the hospital. 6:18 p.m. Parkway Drive. Mt. View Park. Screaming heard. Sounded like a girl. 8:39 p.m. Morello Avenue. Woman. Baggy clothes. Beige pants except where it appears she had soiled herself. Drunk.

Friday, Jan. 27 7:04 a.m. Escobar Street. Marina Market. Theft. Jacket, gloves and other items that I didn’t know they sold at the Marina Market.

Saturday, Jan. 28 6:29 a.m. Alhambra Avenue. Safeway. Woman. Attempted theft. Ejected from store. Came back in to buy donut. Told to leave again. Asks for an ambulance. Harasses customers. 6:11 p.m. Alhambra Avenue. Safeway parking lot. Woman. Asked drivers in lot for a ride. When they refused she would attempt to open car doors to get in the cars.

Sunday, Jan. 29 10:59 a.m. Main Street. Farmers Market. Man attempt-

ing to get free items from booths at the farmers market. 8:23 p.m. Roux Court. Man. States his ex is throwing his things out of the house.

Monday, Jan. 30 7:27 p.m. Estudillo Street. Man. Lying down in driveway. Blocking woman from parking at her home. Cursing. Refusing to move.

Tuesday, Jan. 31 2:56 a.m. Arnold Drive. Walmart parking lot. Man. Black with green striped sweatpants. Yelling at vehicles. Drunk. 3:47 a.m. Morello Avenue. Muir Creek apartments. Man. Carrying shirt in his hand. Punching out light poles. Yelling “Fremont, California.” 8:12 a.m. Alhambra Avenue. Jack In the Box. Woman. Arguing with anyone going inside the restaurant. Making stabbing motions with the pen in her hand. 11:48 a.m. Arnold Drive. Walmart. Man. Stuffed pants with $20 to $30 worth of merchandise. Fled the store to his car. He then hit a van.

Arrest Log Those appearing in the following listings have only been arrested on suspicion of the crimes indicated and are presumed innocent. Arrests listed may not necessarily have taken place in Martinez. n Kurt Kaumans, 50, was arrested Jan. 24 for alleged burglary, possession of burglar’s tools, possession of drug paraphernalia. n Tyler Lewis, 31, was arrested Jan. 24 for alleged possession of narcotic controlled substance, failure to appear on misdemeanor charge, unregistered vehicle. n Jesslynn Felix, 33, was arrested Jan. 24 on charges related to unauthorized use of personal identifying information. n Betty Demuro, 44. was arrested Jan. 25 for allegedly disobeying a domestic relations court order. n Desi Johnston, 24, was arrested Jan. 25 for alleged trespass on posted land.

A DOG’S PURPOSE (PG) 11:35a 12:00p 1:25p 1:50p 1:55p 2:35p 3:45p 4:20p 4:25p 5:05p 6:10p 6:55p 7:25p 9:15p 9:45p 11:35p _______________________________________________________

HIDDEN FIGURES

(PG) 11:15a 1:31p 2:00p 4:16p 4:45p 7:01p 7:30p 9:46p 10:15p 12:31a _______________________________________________________

SPLIT

(PG-13) 11:30a 1:37p 2:10p 4:17p 4:50p 6:45p 6:57p 7:35p 8:52p 9:25p 9:42p 10:10p 11:32p 12:17a _______________________________________________________

LA LA LAND

(PG-13) 11:00a 1:17p 1:50p 4:07p 4:35p 6:52p 7:20p 9:37p 10:10p 12:27a _______________________________________________________

SING

(PG) 11:25a 1:20p 2:05p 4:00p 4:30p 6:25p 7:00p 8:55p _______________________________________________________

RINGS (PG-13) 12:15p 2:07p 2:45p 4:37p 5:15p 7:07p 7:40p 9:32p 9:35p 10:05p 11:27p 11:57p _______________________________________________________

RESIDENT EVIL THE FINAL C (R) 11:45a 1:42p 2:20p 4:17p 5:00p 6:57p 7:50p 9:47p 10:20p 12:17a

Billy Martini Trio 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3

Groovy Judy

9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4

Open Mic with Steve Starr Sunday, Feb. 5

Martini Monday Monday, Feb. 6

Taco Tuesday Tuesday, Feb. 7

Whiskey Wednesday Wednesday, Feb. 8

• Eight screens • Luxury stadium seating • D-BOX Motion Seats for select features • Advanced ticketing through Fandango

Showtimes: (925) 228-9980 Guest Services: (925) 228-9983 www.cinemawest.com

Karaoke with Cindy Thursday, Feb. 9

709 FERRY STREET, MARTINEZ, CA • WWW.NU-RAYS.NET

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

3 Email news tips to news@martineztribune.com

News DREDGING: Continued from Page 1 u

Wong makes Dean’s List

projects “in a timely and professional manner,” the staff report stated. Council approved a budget of $200,000 for the design phase of the dredging, which will come from the Assigned Infrastructure Fund Balance Reserve. Anchor QEA’s contract is capped at $157,000, with $13,000 allocated for City-led project management and $30,000 for permits. The dredging is expected to cost between $723,345 and $971,111, depending upon the areas the final study reveals should be dredged. Council also directed staff to look further into possible repair of the sea wall to prevent continued siltation of the marina.

MARTINEZ, Calif. – Sarah Wong from Martinez has made the Dean’s List at Azusa Pacific University (APU). Wong, a Business Management major, is honored for a fall semester 2016 academic standing of a 3.5 or better grade-point average. Wong is joined by 2,175 other students receiving the honor. Azusa Pacific University is an evangelical Christian university committed to God First and excellence in higher education. With 77 bachelor’s degrees, 45 master’s degrees, 18 certificates, 16 credentials, 8 doctoral programs, and 2 associate’s degrees, the university offers its more than 10,700 students a quality education on campus, online, and at six regional centers throughout Southern California.

A map of the Martinez Marina showing priority areas to be dredged. ON FILE

DEMOCRATS: Continued from Page 1

our communities. We must remain vigilant and continue to speak out and stand up for our democratic values. Let’s Lace Up our Shoes and Organize!” said María Alegría. The Officers are: Chair, María Alegría, former Mayor of Pinole and lifelong human and immigrant rights activist; 1st Vice President, the Honorable Mike McGill, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Board of Directors, Danville; 2nd Vice President, AnaMarie

Avila Farias, recent Vice-Mayor of Martinez and Gubernatorial Appointee to the Board of the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA); Controller, Greg Sanborn, C.P.A., Concord and Secretary, Diddo Clark, Attorney at Law, Walnut Creek. Executive Committee members representing the following County Supervisorial Districts include: District 1, Michael Nye, Richmond; District 2, Carolyn Phinney,

Orinda; District 3, Paul Seger, Oakley; District 4, Chuck Carpenter, Concord and District 5, Nadine Peyrucain, Martinez. The Democratic Party in Contra Costa County (DPCCC), serves as the official governing body of the Democratic Party in Contra Costa County, in cooperation with the California Democratic Party and the Democratic National Committee. Its purpose is to promote development of the Democratic Party in

Contra Costa County, register voters as Democrats and promote and support the election of Democrats. The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County holds monthly meetings that are open to all members of the Democratic Party. Monthly meetings are held on the third Thursday from 7-9 p.m. at JFK University, Room S209, 100 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill. For more information, visit www.contracostadems.org.

Weather, Astronomical & Tides Friday, Feb. 3

Saturday, Feb. 4

Sunday, Feb. 5

Monday, Feb. 6

Tuesday, Feb. 7

Wednesday, Feb. 8

Thursday, Feb. 9

60º / 40º Periods of Rain

57º / 38º Partial sunshine

55º / 36º Cloudy w/chance of rain

56º / 37º Sunshine

54º / 36º Periods of rain

61º / 40º Clouds giving way to sun

59º / 42º Periods of rain

Sunrise / Sunset 7:11 a.m. / 5:34 p.m.

Sunrise / Sunset 7:10 a.m. / 5:36 p.m.

Sunrise / Sunset 7:09 a.m. / 5:37 p.m.

Sunrise / Sunset 7:08 a.m. / 5:38 p.m.

Sunrise / Sunset 7:07 a.m. / 5:39 p.m.

Sunrise / Sunset 7:06 a.m. / 5:40 p.m.

Sunrise / Sunset 7:05 a.m. / 5:41 p.m.

Moonrise / Moonset 1:37 p.m. / 4:11 a.m. (FD)

Moonrise / Moonset 2:33 p.m. / 5:08 a.m. (FD)

Moonrise / Moonset 3:35 p.m. / 6 a.m. (FD)

Moonrise / Moonset 4:39 p.m. / 6:46 a.m. (FD)

Moonrise / Moonset Moonrise / Moonset Moonrise / Moonset 11:17 a.m. / 12:57 a.m. (FD) 11:59 a.m. / 2:04 a.m. (FD) 12:45 p.m. / 3:09 a.m. (FD) High Tides 6:05 a.m. (5.28 ft) 7:10 p.m. (3.97 ft)

High Tides 7 a.m. (5.41 ft) 8:39 p.m. (3.90 ft)

High Tides 8:01 a.m. (5.54 ft) 9:55 p.m. (4.10 ft)

High Tides 9:04 a.m. (5.74 ft) 10:59 p.m. (4.40 ft)

High Tides 10:04 a.m. 5.94 ft) 11:55 p.m. (4.72 ft)

High Tides 11 a.m. (6.07 ft)

High Tides 12:45 a.m. (4.95 ft) 11:52 p.m. (6.14 ft)

Low Tides 1:08 p.m. (1.12 ft)

Low Tides 12:30 a.m. (1.31 ft) 2:29 p.m. (.82 ft)

Low Tides 1:36 a.m. (1.74 ft) 3:42 p.m. (.43 ft)

Low Tides 2:48 a.m. (2.03 ft) 4:45 p.m. (0.07 ft)

Low Tides 3:57 a.m. (2.17 ft) 5:40 p.m. (-0.23 ft)

Low Tides 5 a.m. (2.17 ft) 6:29 p.m. (-0.39 ft)

Low Tides 5:58 a.m. (2.07 ft) 7:13 p.m. (-0.43 ft)

Temperatures from AccuWeather. Astronomical information by U.S. Naval Observatory Astronomical Applications Department. Water levels measured from Martinez-Amorco Pier. (FD is Following Day; PD is Preceding Day.)

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017 Email event listings to news@martineztribune.com, or enter them online at https://martineztribune.com/submit-event

Datebook Ongoing Housing Workshop for Seniors When: Wednesdays from 1-2 p.m. Where: Contra Costa County Aging and Adult Services, 500 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. Details: This Information and Assistance Program may be able to help with your housing search. Register and attend if you are a resident of Contra Costa County, a senior citizen that is homeless, if you’re in the process of eviction and could be homeless soon, your rent has or will be increased to an amount you cannot afford, or if you are unable to use the Internet to locate or apply for housing. Info: (925) 229-8434 or 800-510-2020 to register. 2017 Cat Spay/Neuter Dates When: Sundays Jan. 29, April 9, July 9, Oct. 8 Where: Contra Costa County Animal Services, 4800 Imhoff Place, Martinez. Details: Low cost spay and neuter clinic for feral and free roaming community cats. Cats must be in humane traps (sorry, no carriers permitted). Spay/Neuter Impact Program (SNIP) has some traps available. Reservations are required – no walk-ins accepted. Cost includes FVRCP and Rabies vaccinations, flea treatment when available, ear-tip for permanent spayed/neutered identification. Cost: $15

Info: (925) 473-5027 or www.snipcat.org Mother Goose Time When: 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, Jan. 10 to Feb. 28 Where: Martinez Library, 740 Court St., Martinez. Details: A lighthearted early literacy story time for the youngest crowd! Reading is accompanied with singing and play. Stories are followed by a simple craft for older children and Stay & Play for the younger set. Best for ages 6 months to 3 years. Cost: Free Info: (925) 646-9900 or ccclib.org Martinez Book Club When: 6 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month. Where: Martinez Library, 740 Court St., Martinez. Details: Come join us for Book Club! We meet the fourth Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. The group will select a different book for every meeting, alternating between genres. No registration or fees – just show up! Cost: Free Drop-In Wednesdays When: 3-4 p.m. Jan. 18 and Jan. 25 Where: Martinez Library, 740 Court St., Martinez. Details: Drop in at the Martinez Library on Wednesdays for activities and events. This month: Jan. 18 is Wii and board games, Jan. 25 starts a new art series with local artist, Julia Linsteadt. Snacks provided.

Magazines & soft-back books needed! Magazines (no older than 6 months), soft back books and good, used children’s books are needed at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, 2500 Alhambra Ave., Martinez. The Auxiliary Volunteers deliver some 150 magazines and books each week to the 14 waiting rooms around the hospital and clinics. The magazines help make the long waits bearable. Bring magazines to the hospital lobby information desk or the Gift Shop. All personal labels are removed by the Auxiliary Volunteers before they are delivered. For more information please call the Gift Shop at (925) 370-5818, or email Rhonda.Smith@hsd.cccounty.us.

Check it out! Cost: Free Info: (925) 646-9900 or ccclib.org

Sunday, Feb. 5 Opening of ‘Catfish Moon’ When: 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, and Feb. 5. Play to run Jan. 27 through Feb. 11. Where: Martinez Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St., Martinez. Details: Three middle-aged men, inseparable as adolescents, reunite beneath a magical “Catfish Moon” in an attempt to recapture the friendship of their youth in Onstage Theatre’s upcoming production. Written by Mississippian Laddy Sartin; helmed by Artistic Director Helen Means. Cost: $18 general at door; $16 seniors; $10 students. Info: (925) 518-3277 or onstagetheatre.homestead.com

Feb. 7-10 MUSD TK/Kindergarten Registration When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 7-10 Where: District Office, 921 Susana St., Martinez. Details: Students who have their 5th birthday between Sept. 1, 2017, and Dec. 2, 2017, are eligible for transitional kindergarten (TK). Enrollment packets can be picked up at elementary school sites and the District Office. Enrollment dates are as follows: Las Juntas, Feb. 7; John Swett, Feb. 8; John Muir, Feb. 9; and Morello Park, Feb. 10. Cost: Free Info: www.martinezusd.net

Sunday, Jan. 29 St. Catherine PreSchool Open House When: 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Jan. 29 Where: St. Catherine PreSchool, 1125 Ferry St., Martinez. Details: Now enrolling for fall. Half and full day programs available. Preschool, art, language arts, math, science, cooking, music and dance. Fine and gross motor skill enhancement. Sensory and problem solv-

ing skills. Safe, clean, nurturing environment. Newly remodeled facility, fully qualified staff. Small classes, fully qualified teachers. Info: (925) 229-2255

Saturday, Feb. 11 Big Bag of Books Sale When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 Where: Martinez Library, lower level, 740 Court St., Martinez. Details: For $5, fill a bag with books you select at the Friends of the Martinez Library sale. Proceeds support programs for children, teens, and adults. Members welcome at 10 a.m.; general public at 11. Cost: Free Info: (925) 229-1959 Martinez Historical Society Crab Feed When: 6 p.m. social hour, 7 p.m. dinner, Saturday, Feb. 11 Where: Shell Clubhouse, 1635 Pacheco Boulevard, Martinez. Details: Save the date. Per clubhouse rules, no open flames allowed; melted butter provided. Cost: $45 Info: For reservations, call Kathy Braun, (925) 2281624. Downtown Wine & Chocolate Stroll When: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11. Where: Downtown Martinez, 649 Main St., #106, Martinez. Details: Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling from business to business in downtown Martinez. Stop in participating stores and restaurants to sample delicious wines and chocolate treats. Redeem your advance purchase ticket for wine glass, tasting tickets and Passport at Main Street Plaza, 600 block next to Starbucks. Cost: $20 Info: www.mainstreetmartinez.org/

Sunday, Feb. 12 First Annual Cupid’s 5K Love Dash When: 7:30 a.m. check-

in; 8:30 a.m. start Sunday, Feb. 12 Where: Hidden Valley Park (Center Avenue at Redwood Drive, Martinez. Details: All ages welcome at this 5K trail run/walk including two challenge hills. Register on active.com or heritageSC.com by Jan. 31 to guarantee t-shirt size. Cost: $30 includes t-shirt and goodies Info: Cupid5K@HeritageSC.com

Tuesday, Feb. 14 State of the City Breakfast When: 7:30-9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14. Where: Creekside Church Auditorium, 444 Fig Tree Lane, Martinez (Morello Avenue to Midhill Road). Details: The Martinez Chamber of Commerce and the City of Martinez invite the public to the State of the City Breakfast, where Mayor Rob Schroder will present the State of the City Address. Guest Speakers are Dan Borenstein, columnist and editorial writer for the East Bay Times. Reservations required. Cost: $25 per person; includes full gourmet breakfast. Info: RSVP by Feb. 7 to the Chamber, 603 Marina Vista Ave., Martinez, (925) 2282345.

Friday, Feb. 17 Babysitter Workshop When: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17 Where: Martinez City Hall, 525 Henrietta St., Martinez. Details: The American Red Cross has recently updated the Babysitter’s Training, adding features such as a CD-ROM loaded with helpful information for the babysitter. Babysitters will learn skills necessary to provide safe and responsible care for children. Topics will include running a small business, safety, safe play, discipline, basic infant care, and basic first aid. A book with a babysitter certificate, supplies and snacks are included. No CPR or First Aid Certification will be provided with this class. Students should bring a lunch. Boys

and girls are welcome to attend this class. Cost: $60 Martinez residents; $70 non-residents. Info: (925) 372-3510 or www.cityofmartinez.org

Monday, Feb. 27 Community Police Academy Begins When: 6-9 p.m. Monday night (for 10 weeks) Where: Martinez City Hall, 525 Henrietta St., Martinez. Details: The 10 week Academy is an engaging and informative program designed to increase understanding of the Police Department’s operations and to allow community members the opportunity to interact with our outstanding personnel. Must be at least 18 years old to attend, have no felony convictions, outstanding warrants or pending criminal cases. First consideration given to Martinez residents. Applicants required to submit to background check before acceptance in the program. Cost: Free Info: Sergeant Fred Ferrer, (925) 372-3446 or fferrer@ cityofmartinez.org.

Sunday, March 19 St. Baldricks Shave-athon When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, March 19 Where: Main Street Plaza in downtown Martinez. Details: Join this St. Baldrick’s event to help conquer childhood cancer. Decide to shave your head, volunteer or donate! Cost: Donations requested. Info: https://www.stbaldricks.org

Saturday, March 25 Downtown Spring Cleanup Day When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 25 Where: Downtown Martinez Details: Join in to help make downtown Martinez sparkle! A fun day to join with friends, family and co-workers. Coffee and donuts served in the morning and a BBQ lunch after the u DATEBOOK: Page 5

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

5 Email event listings to news@martineztribune.com, or enter them online at https://martineztribune.com/submit-event

Datebook Park It

Farewell to the Monarchs By NED MacKAY Special to the Tribune The monarch butterfly winter convention at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont is winding down, and the park naturalists have scheduled some farewell programs illustrating the beautiful insects’ life cycle. Hundreds of the butterflies have clustered in the park’s eucalyptus groves for the past several months as part of what has been described as their multi-generational, long-distance reproductive relay race. Meet at the Ardenwood granary at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 5, for a slide show about the monarchs, followed by a walk to the greenhouse to view monarch caterpillars. Ardenwood is located on Ardenwood Boulevard just north of Highway 84 (the Dumbarton Bridge approach). For more information, call (510) 544-2797. *** Nearby at Coyote Hills Regional Park, Discovery Days are in session from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. Your whole family can enjoy nature explorations and craft activities. Come at the start for an introduction to the topic of the week, or drop in any other time during the day. The Ohlone Indians who lived at Coyote Hills for millennium used plants for food, medicine, shelter and tools. To learn more about it, join naturalist Francis Mendoza at the park’s visitor center from 1011:30 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 5. The group will visit the native plant garden and walk out to the freshwater marsh. The program is for ages 15 and older. It repeats at the

same time on Feb. 19. Francis also will talk about Ohlone people and their culture past to present in a program from 1-2:30 p.m. on Sundays, Feb. 5 and 19. It’s for ages eight and up. Coyote Hills is located at the end of Patterson Ranch Road off Paseo Padre Parkway in Fremont. For information, call (510) 544-3220. *** Tracks and trails are the theme of Family Nature Fun hour from 2-3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 4-5, at Crab Cove Visitor Center in Alameda. The staff will help visitors find footprints, paw prints and other evidence of animal activity. Then, as always, it’s fish feeding time from 3-3:30 p.m. at Crab Cove’s large aquarium, which contains all kinds of the fish that live in San Francisco Bay. Crab Cove is at the bay end of McKay Avenue off Alameda’s Central Avenue. For information, call (510) 544-3187. *** “Fun with Felt” is on the agenda from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 4 at the Little Farm in Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley. Naturalist “Trail Gail” Broesder will show visitors how to use wool, soap and some elbow grease to make a unique work of art. The Little Farm is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive. Call (510) 544-2233. *** Trail Gail also leads Footloose Friday hikes. She’s leading one from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 3 at Briones Regional Park.

The focus is on cultural and natural history, plus exercise. At Briones you’ll see some newts, too. The walks go rain or shine, though muddy conditions may shorten them. For the Briones hike, meet at the park’s Alhambra staging area, which is on Reliez Valley Road about a mile east of the junction with Alhambra Valley Road. Call (510) 544-2233 for information. *** Energetic hikers will enjoy a steep five-miler from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 4, through the ridges and forests at Morgan Territory Regional Preserve east of Mt. Diablo, led by naturalist Kevin Dixon. This one’s for ages 12 and up. Bring lunch and water and wear sturdy shoes. Meet Kevin at the park’s staging area, which is on Morgan Territory Road, nine miles south of the junction with Marsh Creek Road east of Clayton. Be careful on Morgan Territory Road. It’s two-way, but it’s winding and not much more than one lane wide. For information, call 888-327-2757, ext. 2750. *** Recycling is the theme of a program from 2-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4 at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley. The park’s interpretive staff will show some fun ways to reuse common household items, and give hints for recycling and reducing waste. Big Break is on Big Break Road off Oakley’s Main Street. For information, call 888-327-2757, ext. 3050.

DATEBOOK: Continued from Page 4

work is done. Cost: Free Info: To volunteer, call Barbara at (925) 408-1338 or bjkapsalis@aol.com

Saturday, April 15 Citizen of the Year Awards When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, April 15 Where: Masonic Hall, 700 Masonic St., Martinez. Details: The Citizen of the Year Awards is a special event that recognizes people or organizations for their outstanding volunteerism and commitment to the community. Reservations required. The deadline for all nominations is Feb. 24, 2017 at 5 p.m. Cost: $55 per person or $500 for a table. Info: Chamber of Commerce, (925) 228-2345 or

julie@martinezchamber. com

Saturday, April 22 Lights, Camera, Auction! When: 6 p.m. Saturday, April 22, 2017 Where: Pleasant Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Details: Come walk the red carpet at St. Catherine of Siena School’s 22nd annual auction. Food, drinks, live and silent auction, live table gaming, photo booth, dancing. John Muir Birthday/ Earth Day When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 22 Where: John Muir National Historic Site, 4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez. Details: Join the National Park Service in celebrating

John Muir’s 179th Birthday and Earth Day during this annual event. The celebration, held rain or shine, features family-oriented outdoor activities, exhibits by the national parks and conservation organizations, and live music, including a bagpipe band. Parking and admission are free. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of Muir’s historic Italianate Victorian home. Bring your kids, family, and friends for a refreshing outdoor experience celebrating our Earth. Last year, over 2,700 guests attended this event. Cost: Free Info: www.johnmuirassociation.org or www.nps.gov/ jomu. Bay Area Craft Beer Festival When: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 22

Where: Waterfront Park, Martinez. Details: Over 50 local breweries participating. Cost: $35 for tasting and $5 for designated drivers. Info: www.bayareacraftbeerfestival.com

June 17-18 King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival When: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 17; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 18 Where: Waterfront Park, Martinez Details: Wine and beer, kids zone, arts and crafts, entertainment, and of course, barbecue! Info: To be a sponsor or for more info about the BBQ competition, call (925) 228-2345.

East Bay Regional Park District closes 2016 at nearly 121,000 acres In 2016, the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) purchased or leased 1,040 acres of open space and parklands for a year-end total of 120,931 acres – and optioned another 364.95 acres. In doing so, EBRPD continues its commitment to protect significant biological, recreational, and historic resources; clean up park boundaries; and provide public access and trail connections throughout the Park District. Land acquisitions and leases include: 1) The 26.87-acre donation of property at Hayward Shoreline which will be incorporated into the adjacent Resource Protected Area for the preservation and enhancement of salt marsh harvest mouse habitat and ultimately become part of a larger wetland restoration project. 2) The purchase of a 20-acre inholding at Point Pinole’s Dotson Family Marsh (formerly called Breuner Marsh) in Richmond which will enhance the District’s marsh restoration and public access project while protecting the property from future development. 3) The purchase of the 10-acre Patterson Ranch “church parcels” property at Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont, one of the few remaining tracts of the historic Patterson Ranch still under ownership by the Patterson family that will serve to extend the eastern boundary of Coyote Hills and preserve the contiguous open space stretching west from Ardenwood Boulevard and Paseo Padre Parkway. 4) The purchase of three properties in partnership with the East Contra Costa Habitat Conservancy using both State and Federal grant funds, providing opportunities to protect habitat, seasonal drainages and associated special-status plant and animal species and develop possible trail connections to other open space: a) The purchase of the 646-acre Nunn property north of Brentwood in the Delta Access Regional Recreation Area. b) The purchase of the 76.5-acre Hanson Ranch property north of Marsh Creek Road in East Contra Costa County from previous owners Save Mount Diablo. c) The purchase of the nearly 200-acre Coehlo Machado property at Vasco Hills Regional Preserve with additional grant funding provided by NextEra. 5) The acceptance of a 4.88-acre trail easement at MESP (McLaughlin Eastshore State Park) near the Albany Bulb from Golden Gate Fields Land Holdings LLC as part of a settlement agreement related to a condemnation action, helping to close a significant gap in the San Francisco Bay Trail. 6) The conveyance of 28.5 acres of property at Coyote Hills to the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, which will allow the ACFCD to widen an important flood control channel and construct a 47-acre wetland mitigation project on a portion of the recently acquired historic Patterson Ranch property, possibly also including public trail access. 7) The continuation of our lease of nearly 20 acres of property at the former Oakland Army Base south of the Bay Bridge take-off which positions the Park District to acquire said property once the Department of the Army completes its environmental mitigation via an approved Public Benefit Conveyance. 8) The acquisition of a 1,056 square-foot parcel (0.0242 acres) off Tidewater Avenue at Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline in Oakland from Arkansas Bandag Corp allowing for improved access and security measures for both the public and Park District staff. 9) The acceptance of 0.14 acres of trail and drainage easements from the City of Pinole and the lease of 12.83 acres of property from the State Lands Commission along the San Pablo Bay Shoreline, serving as the first steps to the closure of the Bay Trail gap in this area in support of the installation of a grade-separated bridge. 10) The acceptance of 50 acres from Suncrest Homes 26, LLC and successor Antioch Land Holdings, LLC at Black Diamond Mines preventing development of an approved 50unit housing subdivision; the donation to the Regional Parks u

ACREAGE: Page 16

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

Voice

Personal views expressed in the Voice section are solely those of the respective contributors and, unless otherwise labeled, do not reflect those of the Martinez Tribune, its advertisers or affiliates.

Mayor's Message

Mayor Schroder: ‘Hopefully, we’ll have a break ... to recover’ By ROB SCHRODER Mayor of Martinez Just a little over a week into the new year and Martinez experienced its first flood in a decade. After days and days of heavy rains saturating the surrounding hills and several king tides, Alhambra Creek surpassed its capacity to drain

the watershed, and overflowed its banks near the D Street/ Shell Avenue Bridge near the Teamsters Building. The overflow found its natural flow point, surging down Castro Street and Alhambra Avenue toward downtown and the Martinez Waterfront. The runoff from the hills to the east and west joined the newly formed rivers leaving MARTINEZ

Tribune 725 Ward St., Martinez, CA 94553 Switchboard: (925) 313-9487; www.martineztribune.com President/CEO Nader Eghtesad Publisher E. Clark Sports Editor Gerardo Recinos Reporter Danny Yoeono Contributors Mark Fierner, John Grubka, Joel Timbrell

The Martinez Tribune is published in Martinez on a weekly basis and distributed to Martinez, Alhambra Valley, Vine Hill, Reliez Valley, Mountain View, Pleasant Hill, Pacheco, and Contra Costa Centre every Friday. Subscriptions are $29 per year and mailed through the U.S. Post Office. Newsstand price is 75¢ per copy.

The mark of sustainable forestry.

behind a layer of mud and gravel in the neighborhoods it passed through. Once the water arrived in the downtown area, it surged along Main Street flooding the 500, 600 and 700 blocks. Water also continued down to the waterfront and spilled back into Alhambra Creek at Marina Vista and the City maintenance yard. Most downtown homeowners, business and property owners were prepared with plywood, plastic and sandbags blocking doors and other openings in their buildings. After the water receded, it left behind a mess of mud, gravel and debris. City crews worked all night and into the early morning to

control the rising waters and direct it out to the river. They immediately started the cleanup and then returned early the next day to make sure the downtown was free of mud, and businesses could open. Unfortunately, the inundation damaged some underground electrical equipment and only minor electrical power was available until PG&E crews could make the needed repairs later in the evening. After finishing the downtown, cleanup crews moved into neighborhoods throughout the city to do the same. Crews scooped up mud and debris into trucks, and fire hoses were used to wash down sidewalks, and street sweepers made passes back

and forth to clean the asphalt. It took about a week of long hours and hard, back-breaking work to recover from the flood of 2017, which is amazing considering the size of the area to be cleaned and the amount of mud and debris that was removed. Because the city was prepared with preventative maintenance of storm drains, removing obstructions in Alhambra Creek, and having a plan to deal with the possibility of flooding, damage was kept to a minimum and the cleanup was efficient and well-organized. I have been asked why there was a flood at all since the city spent millions of dollars on a downtown

flood control project that runs from Ward Street to the Carquinez Strait. The answer is that the improvements did what they were designed to do, carry water from the downtown out to the river. Downtown flooded this year because of the overflow that occurred at D Street and Shell Avenue, over a mile upstream. The rain has been a welcome gift after so many years of drought, but hopefully we will have a break for a while to recover and prepare for what looks like more wet weather to come. Rob Schroder is the mayor of Martinez. Email him at rschroder@cityofmartinez.org.

Fire Marshall on portable heater safety Portable electric space heaters can be a convenient source of supplemental heat for your home in cold weather. Unfortunately, they can pose significant fire and electric shock hazards if not used properly. Fire and electrical hazards can be caused by space heaters without adequate safety features, space heaters placed near combusti-

bles, or space heaters that are improperly plugged in. Safety should always be a top consideration when using space heaters. Here are some tips for keeping your home safe and warm when it’s cold outside: • Make sure your space heater has the label showing that it is listed by a recognized testing laboratory.

• Before using any space heater, read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully. • Inspect heaters for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections before each use. If frayed, worn or damaged, do not use the heater. • Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when you’re leaving a room

or going to sleep, and don’t let pets or children play too close to a space heater. • Space heaters are only meant to provide supplemental heat and should never be used to warm bedding, cook food, or dry clothing. • Proper placement of space heaters is critical. Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing and rugs. • Locate space heaters out of high traffic areas and doorways where they may pose a tripping hazard. • Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater. • Place space heaters on level, flat surfaces. Never place heaters on cabinets, tables, furniture, or carpet, which can overheat and start a fire. • Always unplug and safely store the heater when it is not in use. Robert Marshall, Fire Marshall , Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

7 “God gave us the gift of life; it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living well.” – Voltaire

Faith

The God Squad

Where does God I retired & now I’m bored. Any advice? stand on tattoos? Billy Graham's ‘My Answer'

By BILLY GRAHAM Tribune Content Agency Q: We always looked forward to my retirement, and at first we really enjoyed doing everything we always wanted to do. But now I’m absolutely bored, and sometimes I wish I’d never retired. Does the Bible say anything about how to spend your retirement? A: Retirement is a relatively recent development; historically most people had to work as long as they could just to survive. Our modern industrial world changed all that, however, and today most people can look forward to years of retirement. But you’ve put your finger

on a problem that seldom gets discussed: How should we spend our retirement years? Advisors repeatedly tell us how to prepare financially – but what should we do once we retire? Should we waste those years in meaningless, self-centered activity? Should we become overly preoccupied with our health or overwhelmed with worries? Or does God have something better for our retirement years? The answer is yes; God does have something better for us! In other words, see your retirement as a gift from God – not to be wasted, but to be used the way He wants it to be used. This is why I urge you to begin with a simple prayer: “God, how do you

want me to spend my retirement years? What is your plan for the rest of my life?” I don’t know how God will answer that prayer – but He will answer it! Perhaps He’ll give you new ways to enjoy these years, or open up new opportunities for work. Most of all, however, I urge you to find ways to serve others through your church or community. God’s promise is always true: “For I know the plans I have for you … plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). Send your queries to “My Answer,” c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C.,

Rick Hocker on trust vs fear By RICK HOCKER Special to the Tribune The opposite of trust is fear, and fear causes us to make wrong choices. Trusting in God frees us from desperate actions because we believe God will take care of us. When we don’t trust in God, we are left to rely on ourselves. But when we doubt our ability to manage our security, we fall into fear. The uncertainty of the future causes us dread and we feel uneasy because we have little or no control over it. Fear and trust oppose each other. When we’re filled with fear, we find it hard to trust, if not impossible. When we fully trust, we don’t fear because we have

complete confidence in God’s promise and ability to care for us. Most of us fall somewhere in the middle. We’re afraid to trust in God because we doubt He exists or doubt His love and concern. Every choice we make is based on what we believe about our security, what or whom we rely on. Trusting in God’s Provision A few years after college, my roommate, Tim, and I went crabbing off the Pismo Beach pier. We had a crab trap, fishing line, and some bait. In setting up the trap, we discovered we had nothing to cut the fishing line. Tim left to search for something sharp to cut the line, hoping someone might help. While I waited for

him to return, I asked God for something to cut the line. As soon as I had finished praying, I saw a knife less than three feet away at the edge of the pier. Why hadn’t I seen it before? Was it always there? Had my expectation of God opened my eyes? When Tim came back empty-handed, I held up the knife and smiled. “Look what God provided,” I said. When we trust in God’s provision, we believe He will provide for our needs. He doesn’t promise to give us our dream job or house, but He will take care of us, often in unexpected ways. Nor does He promise to keep us in our current job or housing. What God will do is keep us in His care when we trust Him to do so, even if it shows up as a friend’s couch to sleep on. If God responded to need alone, He would meet all the unmet needs in the world. But God responds to belief, not to need. He responds to what we believe about our needs and God’s ability to meet them. When we don’t trust, we fear we won’t have what we need. So we worry about how we will get those things. We worry about what will happen to us. Because of fear, we rationalize our need to keep more for ourselves or take more for ourselves. We lie, cheat, and steal to insure our security because we believe we alone are responsible for it. When we trust God for our needs, we have peace because we know God will meet our basic needs in response to our trust. Trusting in God’s Protection I grew up in a neighborhood

By RABBI MARC GELLMAN Tribune Content Agency

TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY

Evangelist Billy Graham.

28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the website for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www. billygraham.org.

built near an undeveloped shoreline. The shoreline had unmanaged trails between the tall scrub where kids used to ride their bikes on the weekends. Most of the time, the area was devoid of people. I used to go to this deserted area to think and pray. One time, I noticed a pack of four teenagers in the distance moving in my direction. Feeling unsafe, I turned around to go back to the street. I heard someone shout, “Hey, you,” but I didn’t look so as to pretend I didn’t hear. I asked God to protect me. Then I heard many feet running toward me from behind, getting louder. I continued to trust in God and didn’t run or look behind me, but stayed calm. It would be a lie to say I wasn’t afraid, but in spite of my fear, I placed my safety in God’s hands, believing that if they attacked me, He would be with me. To my amazement, the running sounds stopped abruptly. Curious, I looked behind me, but saw no one. When I looked ahead, I saw a police car parked on the street 50 feet away. God has answered my prayer and protected me. When we trust in God for protection, we believe in God’s peace in the midst of threat. God doesn’t always protect us from harm. The apostle Paul was jailed and beaten. But he had peace because he believed God was with him. God gave him strength and endurance in those situations. When we don’t trust, we don’t have peace, we feel unsafe everywhere we go, even at home. We buy a gun, we distrust all u FAITH: Page 16

Q: I would appreciate how you interpret Leviticus 19:28: “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.” Regardless of how we interpret or apply the whole of Leviticus, the above is the law of the Lord at all times – past, present and future. My belief is that we came into this world with a clean body and we should exit with a clean body. – From M A: So the question is whether God cares about your tats? Does God think about your ink? Here is how some of the world religions line up on the question of tattoos: Judaism: Tattoos are a form of self-wounding (in Hebrew havalah b’atzmo) and self-wounding is prohibited. Judaism believes that God owns our bodies and so defacing what we do not own is a sin. This belief that God owns our bodies is from Ezekiel 18:4, “All souls are mine,” Exodus 19:5 “The whole earth is mine,” and Psalm 24:1 (that is also quoted by Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:26), “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” God’s claim over us is the direct spiritual corollary to God’s creation of us. Aside from the health risks of tattooing, there is the aesthetic/spiritual point that our bodies do not need extra attention to make them beautiful in the eyes of God. Although traditional Jewish law opposes tattooing, the widely held belief that if you have a tattoo you cannot be buried in a Jewish cemetery is not true. This makes tattoos something that in Judaism is OK if you don’t ask and prohibited if you do. Christianity: No opinion either way. Christianity is always torn about the question of which Jewish laws still apply to Christians. On one level, the atoning death and resurrection frees Christians from the demands of Jewish law including keeping kosher and tattooing but Christians are still bound by the ethical biblical laws like, for example, murder and theft. There is therefore a strong anti-tattoo tradition in Christianity (Mormons forbid it) based upon the Jewish belief that God owns our bodies and we ought to respect what we did not create. Thus, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” Islam: Sunni Islam prohibits tattooing (Surah 4 Verses 117-120 and in the Bukhari where Abu Juhaifa recounts that The Prophet cursed a lady who practiced tattooing). Shia Islam, however, permits tattooing. This difference in practice is part of the effort to distinguish Shia from Sunni religious practices. A common object for Shia tattoos is the zulfiqar which was the name of the legendary sword of Ali ibn Abi Talib, who is considered by Shia Muslims as the successor to Mohammad, but whose authority Sunni Muslims dispute. Hinduism: Although there is no specific reference to tattoos in the sacred Hindu Vedic literature, the practice of marking the forehead and face and hands and legs has become a common practice. Particularly the forehead tattoos are a way for women to indicate clan affiliations. One exception to the anti-tattooists religious ideology is the widespread use of the plant dye henna as a temporary skin marking though obviously not a tattoo. Many Middle Eastern cultures both Jewish and Muslim use henna to decorate particularly the palms of the hand before weddings as a sign of blessing and a hope for good fortune. So where does all this history of henna and tattoos bring us today? I believe as you do, dear M, that the human body is ultimately, spiritually and morally a creation of God and as such needs no added decorations to make it holy or beautiful, but I also recognize that this is an aesthetic, not a moral judgment. Except for its permanence, there is not a whole lot of difference in my eyes between tattooing and cosmetics. I am always dubious about medical procedures that can cause potential harm without bringing potential benefits, but I am OK with tattoos. So, apparently are most religious college students. A recent study of how religious college students felt about tattoos discovered that, “Since the strength of the numerous correlations was very low and barely reached statistical significance, religious belief and behavior do not appear to be associated substantively with attitudes and behavior regarding tattoos. This suggests increasing cultural acceptance of tattooing.” I think we all might improve our spiritual journeys if we worried more about how we are disfiguring our bodies by unhealthy indiscretions of diet and drug use far more than by indiscretions of ink. Send QUESTIONS ONLY to godsquadquestion@aol.com.

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

Boys Basketball

Soccer

Girls Basketball

Dogs score early & often in biggest win

Defensive efforts loom large in loss to Concord

Lady Dogs dominate in win over Devils

Page 11

Page 10

Coming Back

Senior makes long injury come-back

Below

TRIBUNE

Sports Wiebalk overcomes the odds for senior season By GERARDO RECINOS Martinez Tribune Karissa Wiebalk didn’t use to take so many shots from beyond the arc, but the one she sunk on Dec. 20, 2016, was the start – or end – of a long journey.

It was 322 days earlier that the senior basketball player was on the floor of the court at Dougherty Valley High School for nearly 15 minutes. Pain caused her to black out, and the next two hours of that day went by with little to no recollection. “I remember how it went in my mind. I had the

ball, then I was going to cut, but coach Jason [Bautista] said someone stepped on my foot and I rotated my leg and then it popped,” Wiebalk recalled. “Next thing I know it went black, and then my parents were around me, my teammates and coach Jason.” u SENIOR: Page 10

Bulldog grapplers meet up with Clayton Valley By GERARDO RECINOS Martinez Tribune Alhambra’s wrestlers were once again at the mercy of their small side in their dual meet loss to Clayton Valley. But in contested matches, the Bulldogs will have been pleased with their six wins and four losses. The matches were starting to ebb toward the Clayton Valley side, and the result looked like it would be lopsided in favor of the Eagles. But senior Brandon West’s match turned the tide of the meet quickly. West started the match by scoring an early take down, but the two big men struggled to maintain the pace of the match, and the spent most of the first period battling for position. But in the second period he settled in and it only took him 48 seconds to get the pin, and the first Alhambra win of the night. On the other side of the spectrum from 220-pound West, was 106- pound Trinity Oredina, who followed up her

teammates win with the second of the night for Alhambra. Oredina did well to capitalize early on, and wasted no time earning points for a take down. But the first period ended in an even stalemate after her opponent also scored two points, one of which came in an escape. However only a minute later the Bulldog wrestler was able to beat her opponent via pin in the second period. Mikey Gargaro followed up that win with one of his own. The 113-pound Bulldog made even quicker work of his opponent, seemingly without breaking a sweat. Gargaro earned points for a take down, but didn’t need them, as he would win via pin only seconds later. In what was the third match in a string of three wins, Damien Pergakis bested all other Alhambra wrestlers by only needing 24 seconds to get his pin. Even Fabian Garcia’s win at 145 pounds couldn’t top the effort. Garcia’s pin took 44 seconds, but was impressively worked as he turned a quick reversal into a fast pin.

MARK FIERNER / Martinez Tribune

Alhambra wrestler Mikey Gargaro looks for direction from his coaches as he closes in on a pin in the Bulldogs’ dual meet against Clayton Valley on Feb. 1, 2017. Gargaro won his match in the 113-pound weight class.

In the final match of the evening Dustin DeLuca came from behind to take care of business on the night for the Bulldogs. DeLuca was trailing 4-1 in the second period when he rallied and reversed his opponents take down di-

rectly into a near fall. It only took the 152- pound grappler a couple of extra seconds before his opponent was down for the count. The Bulldog wrestlers will take on Northgate in their final DAL dual on Feb. 8, 2017.

Bulldogs late surge puts them ahead in win over Devils By GERARDO RECINOS Martinez Tribune If you saw the Mt. Diablo boys basketball team play the Bulldogs on Tuesday night, you’d be forgiven if you didn’t believe they were winless on the season. Not that they didn’t have fire in their play, and an extra incentive to compete hard in the 68-47 win by Alhambra. The Bulldogs’ coach, Chris Petiti, teaches at Mt. Diablo, and he and his players have been throwing back and forth a bit of playful banter before the Jan. 31 contest. Make no mistake though, the Red Devils weren’t going to let their teacher off easy. They had something to play for, and it was clear. But if they were going to do it, they were going to need to rely on one man. Their guard, Jason Glenn, went toe-to-toe with the Bulldogs. He was a big reason Mt. Diablo was able to overcome a slow start in the first quarter. Alhambra had one of their hotter quarters of the season against the u DEVILS: Page 11

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

EEK W E H T F O ATHLETE

e n u b i Tr Sponsored by: MATTHEW RINN AGENCY

THOMAS McDonald Alhambra High School senior Thomas McDonald (21) is this week’s Tribune Athlete of the Week, sponsored by Matthew C Rinn of State Farm. McDonald was the leading scorer for the Bulldogs in both their loss to Clayton Valley on Jan. 24 ( he scored 12 points on the night) and Alhambra’s biggest win of the season on

Photo by MARK FIERNER / Martinez Tribune

Jan. 27 against Ygnacio Valley. McDonald scored 17 points against the Warriors in the 70-31 win. “He’s a talented player offensively and defensively,” said coach Chris Petiti. “He’s very skilled and he’s become a leader even more as the year progresses. “He’s taken on more of a vocal leader role,

and challenges his teammates to be the players they’re capable of being.” Petiti also said of McDonald that when it comes to players who speak up at practice, he’s one of the first guys to pick up a teammate who has made a mistake. McDonald is playing in his second year with the Bulldogs after transferring to Alhambra.

Honorable mention for the Bulldogs also goes to Jordyn Eglite, who is the only player who has been with the team since its last playoff appearance. Petiti said the senior does whatever it takes to help the team. To nominate an athlete for consideration, Email grecinos@martineztribune.com

Love, hope, success, family, security. Matthew C Rinn, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0F99232 www.myagentmatt.net matt@myagentmatt.net Bus: 925-671-0222

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Some things we all have in common. There’s nobody like me to protect the things we all value. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL ME TODAY. ®

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Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

Sports Martinez Winter Bocce Standings The Martinez Indoor Winter League consists of 58 teams, and over 500 players participating. Courts are located at NorCal Courts, 360 Ferry St., Martinez. Standings current as of Friday, Jan. 20, 2017. TUESDAY "A" DIVISION TEAM

WON

LOST

Games Played

BOCCE HUNKS

0.733

DOUBLE SHOT

0.667

THE PLAYERS

0.667

BOCCE BY TATE

0.481

SHOCK TREATMENT

0.370

SEASONED PACK

0.367

THE REPRESENTATIVES

0.185

0.500

198

LOST

Games Played

TOTALS

TUESDAY "B" DIVISION TEAM

WON

ROLLIN STONZ

0.815

BELLA BOCCE

0.630

D.A.L.

0.600

BALLS TO THE WALLS

0.444

CHEW BOCCE

0.407

PELOTAS CALIENTE

0.367

WHAT A BIOCCE

0.267

0.500

198

TOTALS

WEDNESDAY "A" DIVISION WON

LOST

Games Played

ON A ROLL

0.741

WHO

0.633

READY SET ROLL

0.567

FOUR THREE TWO ONE

0.481

HAMMER TIME

0.444

REDUX BOCCE

0.433

BOCCE BY DIRKS

0.185

0.500

198

TEAM

TOTALS

WEDNESDAY "B" DIVISION WON

LOST

Games Played

LES SCHWAB TIRES

0.667

ALOHA CHIROPRACTIC

0.630

ROLL HAPPY

0.567

PACIFICA PIZZA

0.556

ROLLING ROCKS

0.519

HARD TO HANDLE

0.370

EASY RIDERS

0.200

0.500

198

TEAM

TOTALS

THURSDAY "B" DIVISION WON

LOST

Games Played

BAD BOYS BAD BOYS

0.741

BOUN AMICI

0.741

ON A ROLL (2)

0.667

CHALLENGERS

0.567

DON’T BE SHORT

0.367

TEAM HAZLETT

0.296

FREE BALLIN

0.111

0.500

198

TEAM

TOTALS

WEDNESDAY SENIOR "RED & WHITE MIXED" DIVISION Games WON

LOST

Played

ABC

TEAM

0.879

WHO TOO

0.727

LA BOCCE VITA (RED)

0.636

BOCCE BY TATE

0.606

DUCKS

0.515

111

0.673

165

ET TU BOCCE

0.515

ROLLING STONES

0.485

SIR 8 ROLLERS

0.273

LA BOCCE VITA (WHITE)

0.242

ON A ROLL (3)

0.121

111

0.327

165

TOTALS

THURSDAY SENIOR "RED" DIVISION WON

LOST

Games Played

CROCKET CRYSTALS

0.593

BOTCHEE 101

0.593

MISFITS

0.533

BOCCE BRUISERS

0.519

BOCCE GUYS TOO

0.500

LA BELLA VITA

0.400

SUGAR CUBES

0.370

0.500

198

TEAM

TOTALS

THURSDAY SENIOR "WHITE" DIVISION Games TEAM

WON

LOST

Played

THE WINTER WONDERS

0.708

SENIOR TRAVELERS BOCCE FRIENDS REJECTS

0.704

0.583

BALLS O'FYRE

0.524

R.E.D.

0.250

PALLINO PALS

0.208

0.500

144

TOTALS

Stingy defense shines in girls’ win By GERARDO RECINOS Martinez Tribune Only four days after putting up a season-high 78 points, the Bulldog girls basketball team nearly matched that effort in their latest win. Only two points short of their season-high in points, they decided instead to beat their previous mark on point differential in their 76-19 win. With a differential of 57 points, it was clear the two teams playing on Jan. 31 were not evenly matched. But as the season starts to come to a close, and the playoffs are no longer a pipe dream, the team’s mentality needs to be to win every time they lace up their shoes. Luckily for the Dogs, their coach agrees. The Bulldogs went off on a 10-0 run to start the game. But a three-pointer and driving lay up from Mt. Diablo’s Alexa Sotto caused Jason Bautista to call a time out. Why call a time out? Your team is up seven points only four minutes into the game. It was clear the coach wasn’t too excited about the effort he saw on defense. The Bulldogs only allowed seven more points in the next 12 minutes of game time, and created five turnovers. In total the Red Devils turned the ball over 29 times due to solid defense from Alhambra. With the up tick in energy from the Lady Dogs on defense, the offense followed suit. Five girls scored double figures, with junior Kiera Rios taking the

MARK FIERNER / Martinez Tribune

Alhambra junior Kieara Rios reaches over two players to pull in the rebound in the Bulldogs’ 76-19 win over the Mt. Diablo Red Devils. Rios had 22 points in the match.

most advantage of her extra time on the court. The 6-foot tall wing had 22 points to lead all scorers. But she wasn’t the only one to have a solid night scoring wise. Lani Lara and Kaylee Pond both had 12 points on top of their strong defensive efforts. The two guards played a big part in the 12-0 run that ended the first half of play, and the six unanswered points that came after the break. Over two quarters the Bulldogs only allowed seven points, and despite slowing

down on defense, were still able to cruise and allow the starters to take a rest on the bench. As the second-half of the season gets underway, two dates stand out for the Lady Bulldogs. In the same week the Dogs will take on Concord and Clayton Valley Charter. The game against Concord on Feb. 7 is especially important, because if Alhambra is able to run the table in Diablo Athletic League play, the two teams would share the DAL title. Concord would have more losses in the tiebreaker situation.

Wiebalk: ‘It’s something I’ll remember forever’ uSENIOR: Continued

from Page 8

Things didn’t become fully clear for the 6-foot tall senior until she reached the hospital and saw a doctor. By that time it was clear that she had not only torn her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), but also broken her meniscus. “No pain has ever compared to that,” Wiebalk said. “I couldn’t talk until I got to the doctor’s office.” But while time stopped on that day, there was still a game to be played, and a season to be finished. This was the first time Bautista had to coach through an in-season ACL injury. “One of the last things she said when she walked off the court was, ‘You guys better win this game,’” The second-year coach recollected. It was too much for Alhambra to deal with that day, and they didn’t come back to win. With their center and leading scorer out of the game, and out for the season, the Bulldogs had trouble rebounding. “One of our first team meetings after (Wiebalk’s in-

jury) happened, we said, ‘Now we’re going to have to rally. We have to play that much better basketball,” Bautista said. “She was motivating to us, because she was saying a week after it happened, ‘I’m going to be on the court this year.’” The Lady Bulldogs and coach Bautista always kept Wiebalk in their plans for this season, which makes the developments of the current season all that much more satisfying. The team is riding high at 19-2 (as of Tribune deadline). Wiebalk went through months of physical therapy to get prepared to compete, not just on the basketball team, but also for her fourth year of varsity volleyball. She even used the cupping technique that U.S. Olympian Michael Phelps popularized during the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. The technique has origins in ancient Chinese medicine, and in Wiebalk’s case was used to break up scar tissue. Projections were all over the place for when she would be ready to play. At times it seemed like volleyball was not

going to be out of question, and other times it seemed like even making it to basketball would be a stretch. “I was determined to get back for basketball,” Wiebalk said. “My heart was always more in basketball and I would be more upset if I wasn’t back for basketball (rather than volleyball).” She didn’t make it back for the volleyball season, but only missed about a third of the basketball season. And with a support system like the one she has, you might even be shocked it took this long for Wiebalk to see the court. When she’s talking about the people who made the unbearable rehabilitation passable, Karissa Wiebalk has a list of people that ranges from her parents, Jim and Mica, her girlfriend Cara, her grandfather Bill, to her teammates and coach. All of whom spent extended hours of time by her bedside when just getting out of bed was a chore. “Since the beginning when it happened, [teammates] got

me a card and wrote me a letter, and they hyped me up to get back on the court,” Wiebalk said. For many months she was unable to participate in full practice, but never made her feel isolated. And when she finally got back on the court and hit that first shot, the noise that erupted from the modest crowd that showed up to watch the Lady Bulldogs beat De Anza 56-30, swelled to about triple its actual size. “It’s definitely something I’ll remember forever, because it was such a long journey,” Wiebalk said. “I wanted to cry when I came off the bench. The first time I put on my basketball shoes, I cried. It was a very sweet moment for me. I couldn’t not smile.” Even then, however, the moment the Lady Bulldog captain finally felt like she was back was in the game on Jan. 6, 2017, against the College Park Falcons. That was the first time she had forgotten she had ever even been hurt. “It hit me. I’m back now,” Wiebalk said.

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

Sports

Boys beat down Ygnacio in biggest league win By GERARDO RECINOS Martinez Tribune They may not have let on too much in pre-game warm ups, but it was clear Alhambra’s boys basketball team needed this win. Staring down the barrel of a winless league campaign, the boys took care of Ygnacio Valley easily on Friday, Jan. 27. Alhambra’s boys routed the Warriors 71-30, their largest margin of victory this season. And it really wasn’t even close. Alhambra went on a 26-4 run in the first quarter that basically put the game out of reach. That run was lead by senior Thomas McDonald, who had 11 points in the first quarter alone. McDonald led the scoring drive by doing what all teams aim to do early on: get to the basket. And he was backed up by an equally impressive effort from Jordyn Eglite, who did a lot of the same as McDonald. On top of scoring, they played nearly perfect de-

fense. The Bulldogs only allowed a single field goal in the first quarter, and the Warriors only scored four points. The performance was unlike any from this season, and will hopefully be the spark that can turn the season around. Because after a single quarter the Bulldogs knew that they put themselves into a position where they could take a load off and cruise. At least in every aspect other than rebounding. Prior to the match coach Chris Petiti had made a deal with his players about rebounding the basketball. Something they’ve struggled with all season. Alhambra had a size advantage but that hasn’t really helped them when they’ve had it this season. And even then, one of the team’s best rebounders, Brody Eglite, isn’t the tallest player on the team. Brody Eglite has been one of the team’s first players off the bench this year, but in a larger role with the big lead, he was able to play more minutes. The sophomore Eglite brother had 12 points in the win,

and worked well on the glass. He and junior Isaac Frierson made the most of their extended minutes. Frierson had eight points on the night, with all eight points coming in a high-energy fourth quarter. The Bulldogs put together a brilliant half, and went into the break up by 29 points, but more impressively, they triggered the running clock immediately into the fourth quarter after a steal and lay up from junior Kinrick Todd. The Warriors made a valiant effort to flatter the score line in the final eight minutes of play, but the Bulldog reserves held on and made the most of their minutes in relief. All the while taking time to make a case for themselves to get more minutes in the coming matches. As the second half of the season starts of Friday, the Bulldogs will have a chance to change their season’s trajectory. Their games against Berean, Concord, and Clayton Valley will have a big impact on how the program will view their season once it’s over.

Dogs lose to Concord, but show improvement By GERARDO RECINOS Martinez Tribune On their current run of form the Alhambra boys soccer team looks like a brand new side. Their last week and a half of play says one thing: this team isn’t lying down. You’d forgive them if they did, especially with how the season started, but they’ve been buoyed by their recent results. Their 2-0 loss to Concord on Jan. 27 was a massive improvement. When the two teams met in Concord three weeks earlier the Bulldog boys were played off the park. Sophomore Sergio Barba had a had trick in the win for the Minutemen. The match did however start with some shaky defending on the part of the Bulldogs. Only two minutes into the match Concord created their first chance. However it was fired into the side-netting. And in the fifth minute it took a double save from junior keeper Corey Drevno and a goal-line clearance from Ryan Fretwell to keep Concord at bay. Or at least keep them at bay for the moment. A long throw by Concord senior Lucien Gerhardt was knocked in by Roberto Barahona to give Concord the early lead. The Minutemen double their lead only eight minutes later. Alhambra had started making a concerted effort to push back Concord and press them into their defensive half of the field. Concord absorbed, but didn’t break to the pressure. Instead they turned defense into offense with an incisive counter attack that shredded the Bulldog defense, which struggled to track back. The final ball was played by senior Luis Soto to Barba, who slotted home his team-leading 13th goal of the season to break Alhambra hearts.

MARK FIERNER / Martinez Tribune

Alhambra’s Ryan Fretwell takes a free kick in the Bulldogs’ 2-0 loss on Jan. 27 to Concord High School. Fretwell, who plays in defense, had a goal-line clearance that kept the Minutemen from securing a third goal in the contest.

The danger-man for Concord was kept out for the rest of the match, but when it mattered, he pounced. Chances were few and far between for Alhambra when they were on the ball. If they wanted to do something they were going to nick a goal from a set piece, because from open play Concord played a composed half of soccer. That’s not to say that the Bulldogs didn’t show some life. Andrew Olvera and Reagan Cole in particular linked up well down the right touch-

line in the second half. And Nick Silva was only off by a few yards on some slide-rule passes to the energetic Jack Fuller. But in truth the Concord team was much to poised to get caught out from open play. Twice free kicks from Silva were well wide of goal from dangerous positions, and for most of the final 15 minutes of play were actually spent in defense. But Concord had little impetus to chase a third, lest they be counter-attacked themselves and allowed Al-

hambra a chance to steal an equalizer. Even then the Bulldogs have turned it around after a horrid start to the month of January. After a trio of losses where the Bulldogs conceded five goals in each contest, things are looking up. Of the three remaining games on the schedule, two are against teams the Bulldogs have already beaten. However a looming away match against Miramonte on Feb. 3, will dictate if the Bulldogs limp into the home stretch, or walk tall.

Seniors propel Alhambra to second win in a row, 68-47 uDEVILS: Continued

from Page 8 Red Devils, mostly because they were able to drive to the rim effectively, and slow down a team who wanted to out shoot them. That has not always been a possibility for the Dogs. And it’s hurt them so far this season. But there’s only so long you can hold a good player down. Thomas McDonald was leading the charge for Alhambra, and his 16 points in the first half were huge for the Dogs. But with a trio of three-pointers, the senior Glenn matched that output. McDonald had 24 on the night, and Glenn had 29 to lead all scorers. Only a late fade-away jumper by senior Luke Brown allowed the Bulldogs to go into the half up a single point. From the break, Alhambra made their first run toward breaking the game open. A couple of slick passing moves allowed the Bulldogs to go on a 8-0 run that was capped by senior Jackson normed completing a three-point play after going down hard on the foul. Norried saw an increase in minutes and used the time on the court to rack up his best scoring night of the season. The senior had 13 points on the night, and was one of three scorers for Alhambra to reach double digits. The third man to reach double figures was another senior, Jordyn Eglite. His 10 points in the second half were a big reason Alhambra doubled their 12-point lead from the third quarter to the fourth. With Glenn on the bench, the Bulldogs got to work in the paint, and despite only making 50 percent of their shots from the free throw line, they got two Red Devil players to foul out. With a short bench, Mt. Diablo couldn’t cope, and suddenly their tenacious play and sharp-shooting first half were forgotten. From a one-point deficit in the first half to a 21-point loss, there was a lot going on the middle that allowed for a more flattering score line. The Bulldogs will have five games left to play this season, however only two are at home, where they are 5-3. Those two games do come against the teams who handed Alhambra their heaviest defeats in league play, Clayton Valley Charter and Concord.

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

Classifieds

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Classified Directory

Martinez Tribune 725 Ward St. Martinez, CA 94553 Phone: (925) 313-9487 Email: classifieds@martineztribune.com Online at: http://martineztribune.com

0005 Personals 0006 Lost & Found* 0009 Childcare 0011 Lessons 0015 Tutoring 0017 Business Opportunities 0019 Money & Loans

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0021 Help Wanted 0025 Misc Items* 0026 Furniture* 0027 Appliances* 0030 Electronics* 0050 Wanted* 0060 Health/Beauty/Fitness 0061 Auto & RV 0065 Marine

0020

Services, Creativity, Authenticity, Critical Thinking, Teamwork, Problem Solving, Self-Motivated, Google Apps, Social Media Management. _________________________________________________________________________

GUERRILLA RIGGING Event rigging, carpentry, electrics, stagehand, backline and skilled labor. (928) 420-6852. _________________________________________________________________________

NEEDED: CAPRICORN males for sociology study. Please call (925) 917-0168.

Business Opportunities 0017

_________________________________________________________________________

FREE JIGSAW PUZZLE EXCHANGE! 500 / 1,000 piece puzzles. Ages 10-adult. Ask for Terry. 925-672-5550. _________________________________________________________________________

IF YOU like piña coladas and what-not, write to me and escape. 20-year-old, male. MTZNative, Box 1, c/o Martinez Tribune, 725 Ward St., Martinez CA 94553.

Lost & Found

0006

FOUND female Rotweiller, blue collar, no tags, friendly. Found Saturday, July 30, 2016, at Valero Gas Station, 4141 Alhambra Ave., Martinez. Police took to Animal Control. _________________________________________________________________________

THE HEMP Church hereby declares 650 Pine Street, Martinez, California, as sacred tribal grounds. Please send prayer requests to 650 Pine Street, Martinez, California. Please do not use zip code or state abbreviation.

Business Opportunities 0017

LOCAL FILM production services offered. Sports, archive, real estate, highlights. Email for quotes, pieman0226@yahoo.com. Call for questions, (925) 963-1607. _________________________________________________________________________

WANT TO become a business owner? Do you know about collectables, antiques? Have them to sell? We have two large cases to rent. Come in, talk to Judy on Fri, Sat. Antiques on the Main, 814 Main St., Martinez. (925) 228-0394

Work Wanted

0020

DUTCH STYLES quality labor and custom services provides highest quality commercial and residential landscape installations and maintenance specializing in irrigation repairs, water conservation and trees. (925) 204-8024 _________________________________________________________________________

Brian Krisch, brian@ krisch.co, 510.290.1816 BA in Communication. Skills: Editing, Marketing, Research, User Experience Design, Writing, Web

RANCH SITTING - MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE - EXCELLENT REFERENCES Will ranch sit, longterm, “24/7”, will assist with management including light chores - in exchange for cottage or separate living quarters - Contra Costa County. Recently retired (early), healthy woman, veteran equestrienne, former professional gardener, have horse - do not smoke, drink or use drugs. (925) 2290968.

Help Wanted

0021

EDGE INSPECTION Group, Inc. is currently looking for a LEVEL 2 Radiographer, UT, MT, PT, with a TWIC card, Valid DL and a IRRSP Card, with a minimum of 5 years experience. Call (707) 474-4760. _________________________________________________________________________

RES SUCCESS is hiring! Join our amazing team! Looking for a meaningful career working with individuals with Autism and cognitive disabilities? Call RES Success at (925) 229-8228 to apply! www.ressuccess.org _________________________________________________________________________

MOVERS WANTED Martinez moving company looking for a lead mover with a

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Real Estate 0070 Homes for Sale 0072 Rentals 0075 Commercial Property 0080 Land 0085 Open Houses

0095 Fuel, Wood & Oil 0096 Auctions 0097 Time Shares 0099 Garage Sales 0100 Service Directory 0101 Legal Notices

0090 Campgrounds/Spaces 0091 Pets & Supplies* 0093 Hay, Grain & Feed

*Free ads (under $100); includes 3 lines & 1 week online

0021

minimum of one year experience. Must have clean C.D.L., experience with piano moving, in home packing and can work with Bill Of Ladens. Pay depends on experience. Contact by email, sbmove@pacbell.net _________________________________________________________________________

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS for Sales Representatives. Looking for friendly, professional, outgoing people to sell advertising over the phone/Internet and in person. Flexible schedule. Work as little or as much as you wish – your success depends upon your drive! Great growth potential. Send inquiries/resumes to eclark@ martineztribune.com. _________________________________________________________________________

SEEKING REPORTER(S) The Martinez Tribune is seeking reporter(s) to cover local meetings and events of interest. Pay per word/photo. Send resume and clippings to eclark@ martineztribune.com. _________________________________________________________________________

MANAGING EDITOR wanted to oversee growing weekly publication. The right person will posses strong managerial skills, knowledge of AP Style, InDesign, Photoshop, and WordPress. Degree in journalism or commensurate experience. Training available. Email resume to eclark@martineztribune. com.

Misc Items

0025

PILOT SUPPLIES: Lorance Air Map (GPS), $25; Pilot Headsets, $40; E6B, $5; Magellan Sky Star Plus GPS (yoke mount), $75

Misc Items

0025

Misc Items

0025

obo; ICOM Hand Held Radio, $40; Seat belt & shoulder harness (new), $75 obo; Log Book (new), $4; AeroShell 100 50 weight (2 quarts), $3 each; Safety Wire (new can), $2. Bob Lauderdale, Martinez. Call (925) 229-4902 (leave message).

paid $1,000+, used twice, asking $500 obo. Call Edwin, (925) 432-9230.

_________________________________________________________________________

VINTAGE COSTUME jewelry. Very desirable and collectible pieces. Many pieces are signed. Call Donna, (510) 860-7196.

DESIGNER SUITS, shirts, pants, shoes like new, some new, reasonably priced. (925) 825-7297.

_________________________________________________________________________

FREE METAL FRAMES, 11x14. Other free framing/ art supplies. Stop by I’ve Been Framed, 411 Ferry St., Suite C, Martinez.

_________________________________________________________________________

REMOTE CONTROL cars for sale. All models. (925) 432-9230. OVER 200 films on VHS/ DVD for sale. Best offer. Call Edwin, (925) 432-9230.

_________________________________________________________________________

BUILDING MOBILE (human pulled) emergency shelter housing for rescue, recreation or military. Need to build more units. Seeking sponsor. (510) 222-9420

_________________________________________________________________________

XL-1200 AIR CONDITIONER. Bought at job site never installed, selling for family member. In Martinez area, call stop by take a look. Also have residential heater unit. Let’s make a deal. Make me an offer! Call David, (925) 681-9833. _________________________________________________________________________

TWO TIRES by Michelin, radial, size 185/65R15. Used, good condition. $50 for all. (925) 939-2152. _________________________________________________________________________

25” TV single base, moves side to side, remote control, mint condition, $100. (925) 432-9230.

Furniture

0026

FOR SALE Antique Eastlake dresser, headboard and matching commode, (925) 228-3045. _________________________________________________________________________

POTTERY BARN desk with hutch and chair, white. $500 obo. (925) 808-1534.

Appliances

0027

WASHING MACHINE. Two-year old great washer. Kenmore LG, estate sale, stainless steel. Perfect condition. Will deliver. $500. Nancy, (925) 8274684.

_________________________________________________________________________

DEAN MARTIN Celebrity Roasts, total of 17 DVDs, 15 are brand new, 2 have been played once. Asking price $110 or best offer. Call Ron, (925) 284-5428. _________________________________________________________________________

TWO WHEELCHAIRS, one over-sized, barely used, $300. Another standard size, black leather, foldable,

Electronics

0030

STEREO SX components, twin towers, $800. Yamaha/ Mistubishi components, 4 sound towers, 1000 watts. Call Edwin, (925) 432-9230.

Wanted

0050

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

13 Email classifieds to classifieds@martineztribune.com

Classifieds Wanted

0050

CHRISTIAN FEMALE seeking Section 8 rental, on bus route. Please call (925) 917-0168. _________________________________________________________________________

LOOKING FOR SF Bay Area radio station recordings from the 1920s through 1980s, if possible with local station ID breaks. From music shows, talk shows, newscasts, live band remotes, sports recordings, etc. For example, stations like KTAB, KSFO, KGO, KYA, KSFX, KDIA, KWBR, KOBY, KSAY, etc. Willing to pay to have digital copies made. Call Ron, (925) 2845428. _________________________________________________________________________

LOOKING FOR TV audio soundtracks from 1950s-1970s, i.e. variety shows, talk shows, sports recordings, etc. Call Ron, (925) 284-5428. _________________________________________________________________________

LOOKING FOR Brian Piccolo Story movie (not the Brian’s Song movie). Saw it on KTVU Channel 2 back in mid-‘70s. Willing to take home recorded version of this movie. Call Ron, (925) 284-5428.

Health/Beauty/Fitness 0060 SEROVITAL-HGH dietary supplement. 30 day supply, sealed box with shipping. Order 50% off, only $50. Call (510) 860-7196.

Auto & RV

0061

2006 MAZDA Rx-8 A/C, auto doors, locks, windows alarm system, and tinted windows. Charcoal grey, black and grey interior. Only 1 owner, 11,000 miles, mostly highway. 6 speed, 20 inch rims on low profile tires. Stereo/ CD with 2 ten subs 1500 watt amp with separate over load capacitor, cold air intake and Greddy module. GREAT CAR, EXCELENT CONDITION NO SCRACHES DENTS WELL TAKEN CARE OF. FUN TO DRIVE!!!!!! Must sell due to medical reasons. $10,999. David, (925) 681-9833. One owner 2004 ET4 150cc Vespa scooter in very good condition. Only 5765 miles – $2,400 OBO. Call Bob at (510) 552-3324 TOYOTA CAMRY 4 door sedan, ‘92, black on black, limosine tint, new tires,

Auto & RV

0061

electronic ignition, etc. $2,500 obo. Call Edwin, (925) 432-9230. ______________________________________________________________________-__

TWO TIRES by Michelin, radial, size 185/65R15. Used, good condition. $50 for all. (925) 939-2152.

Marine

0065

FOR SALE New 12 ft Wenonah (canoe). Hardly used, includes two wooden oars, asking $300. Was $1,300 new. (925) 229-0968.

Rentals

0072

LOOKING FOR room to rent. Single adult male with no pets. Willing to pay reasonable price. (510) 5639162.

Commercial

0075

SHELL GAS STATION and convenience store for sale, great location in Folsom, next to busy DMV, schools, biz district. Leave msg, (928) 377-7579.

Legal Notices

0101

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): High Prestige UMO. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 2326 Hilltop Mall Rd, Richmond, CA 94806. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Peter R Henain. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on NA. /s/ Peter R. Henain. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Dec. 27, 2016. File #17-0007456-00 Published: Jan. 13, 20, 27; Feb. 3, 2017 ______________________________________________________________________-__

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): TOP PRO PLUMBING CO. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 504 Everett St., El Cerrito, CA 94530, Contra Costa. P.O. Box 211, El Cerrito, CA 94530. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): LIANG SU, 504 Everett St., El Cerrito, CA 94530. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on NA. /s/ LIANG SU. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Jan. 5, 2017. File #17-0000104-00 Published: Jan. 13, 20, 27;

Legal Notices

0101

Feb. 3, 2017 ______________________________________________________________________-__

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name TOP PRO PLUMBING & ROOTER CO. at 504 Everett St., El Cerrito, CA 94530. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in Contra Costa County on 2016 under file number 2016-02696. SINOSCAN CONSTRUCTION CO., INC., 504 Everett St., El Cerrito. This business was conducted by: an Individual. /s/ LIANG SU (PRESIDENT). This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on Jan. 5, 2017. Published: Jan. 13, 20, 27; Feb. 3, 2017 ______________________________________________________________________-__

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): Atlas Pacific Group. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 8 Camino Encinas, Ste 100, Ordinda, CA 94563; Mailing Address: 1849 Chestnut St #5, San Francisco, CA 94123. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Adam Watts, 1849 Chestnut St #5, San Francisco, CA 94123. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on NA. /s/ Adam Watts. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Jan. 13, 2017. File #17-0000239-00 Published: Jan. 20, 27; Feb. 3, 10, 2017. ______________________________________________________________________-__

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): Letts Plumbing Inc. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 1717 Solano Way #5, Concord, CA 94520. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Letts Plumbing, 1717 Solano Way #5, Concord, CA 94520, California Corporation. This business is conducted by: A Corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on January 2006. /s/ Shane Letts, President. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Jan. 17, 2017. File #17-0000290-00 Published: Jan. 20, 27; Feb. 3, 10, 2017. ______________________________________________________________________-__

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): Braddahs Grinds LLC. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 1211 Fascination Cir, Elso-

Legal Notices

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brante, CA 94803. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Braddahs Grinds LLC, 1211 Fascination Cir, Elsobrante, CA 94803. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Co. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on NA. /s/ George Carvalho III (Managing Member). This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on Jan. 20, 2017. File #17-0000376-00 Published: Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 2017 ______________________________________________________________________-__

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): Rick’s Handyman Services. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 1115 Chiltern Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94596. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Rick Ysunza, 1115 Chiltern Dr., Walnut Creek, CA 94596. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on NA. /s/ Rick Ysunza. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on Jan. 18, 2017. File #17-0000324-00 Published: Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 2017.

Legal Notices

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File #17-0000538-00 Published: Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2017. ______________________________________________________________________-__

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): Ralph Rote Construction. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 2279 Shea Dr., Pinole, CA 94564. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Ralph Louis Rote, 2279 Shea Dr., Pinole, CA 94564. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on January 1, 2017. /s/ Ralph Rote. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Jan. 26, 2017. File #17-0000571-00 Published: Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2017. ______________________________________________________________________-__

Marich Confectionery Co. ISSUES ALLERGY ALERT ON POTENTIAL UNDECLARED ALMONDS IN PRODUCT

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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): GRATI. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 101 Salazar Ct, Clayton, CA 94517. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Irfan Baig, 101 Salazar Ct, Clayton, CA 94517. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on NA. /s/ Irfan Baig. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Jan. 24, 2017.

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was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s packaging processes that resulted in the packaging mix up. Consumers who have purchased 4.25oz Valentine Chocolate Caramel Hearts are urged to return it Marich Confectionery for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-624-7055 Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm PST. Published Feb. 3, 10, 17, 2017 ______________________________________________________________________-__

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): Henry Chin and Associates. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 56 Warfield Drive, Moraga, CA 94556. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Henry Chin, 56 Warfield Drive, Moraga, CA 94556. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on January 4, 2016. /s/ Henry Chin. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Jan. 18, 2017. File #17-0000318-00 Published: Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2017. ______________________________________________________________________-__

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Martinez USD Citizens’ Oversight Committee: Martinez Unified School District is seeking applicants for “parent of MUSD students”, “member-at-large”, and a “member active in a business organization” to serve a two year term on the Measure K bond program Citizens’ Oversight Committee. Meetings are held four times each year at the District Office from 6:30-8:00 p.m. The application is located on the district website at www. martinezusd.net in the Measure K section. For questions please contact Diane Deshler, Chief Business Official at ddeshler@ martinez.k12.ca.us or (925) 335-5925. Published Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 2017

Legal Notices

Marich Confectionery of Hollister, California is voluntarily recalling 4.25oz Valentine Chocolate Caramel Hearts UPC CODE 797817-44440-9 because it may contain Triple Chocolate Toffee which contains almonds. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity almonds run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. Product was distributed in California, Oklahoma and Minnesota in retail form. The product can be identified by its Valentine’s Day themed packaging. It comes in a 4.25oz (120g) bright red and pink box with the product name of Chocolate Caramel Hearts. The lot code being recalled is 0031711 with a best by date of 9/30/17 and can be found on the bottom of the package. No illnesses have been reported to date. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing almonds was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of almonds. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): Schofield Images. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 25A Crescent Dr, #207, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Kevin M. Schofield, 25A Crescent Dr, #207, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on NA. /s/ Kevin M. Schofield. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Jan. 30, 2017. File #17-0000658-00 Published: Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2017. ______________________________________________________________________-__

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The Name(s) of the Business(es): Clear The Way Traffic Control. The Street Address of Principal Place of Business is 2950 Buskirk Ave, #300, Walnut Creek, CA 94597. The business is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Jayla Clark, 1710 Laramie Way, Stockton, CA 95209. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on NA. /s/ Jayla Clark. Statement filed with the Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder on Jan. 31, 2017. File #17-0000685-00 Published: Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2017.

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017 Email news tips to news@martineztribune.com

Amusements Gasoline Alley

The Middletons

Broom-Hilda

Sudoku

Solution to last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s puzzle

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Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017

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Amusements Horoscopes

Omarr’s Weekly Astrological Forecast By JERALDINE SAUNDERS Tribune Content Agency

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr. 19): Get that heart rate up. Find ways to release pent up energy and clear your mind for the upcoming week ahead. Make sure to leave your schedule flexible as romantic interludes could suddenly pop up without warning. TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): Have it your way. You are able to use your charms and wiles to get nearly anyone to fall into line. Put your social acumen to good use by reconciling differences, asking for favors or making new acquaintances this week. GEMINI (May 21June 20): Find your support group. You’ll find that those who care about you the most will provide the enthusiasm you need to get your ideas off of the ground. A significant other may make the rest of the world seem to stand still later in the week. CANCER (June 21July 22): Stick to your convictions this week. Don’t back down when it comes to letting others know where you stand on specific issues. Avoid getting too deep into conversations involving subjects of which you have little or no knowledge. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Family comes first. Schedule time to pay attention to loved ones as work may take up too much of your time this week. If someone approaches you for advice, be helpful and enthusiastic as criticism could be poisonous. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Don’t compromise your values. In the heat of the moment, you may feel compelled to say or do something that goes against everything that you’ve been taught. Steer clear of confrontations in the week to come.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): Bury the hatchet. There’s no point in allowing ill feelings to fester. You can improve everyone’s mood by taking steps towards reconciliation. Matters of romance and relationships may take precedent as the week progresses. SCORPIO (Oct. 23Nov. 21): Nothing stands in the way of progress. No matter if you take baby steps or giant leaps forward you get closer to achieving your goal. Don’t shrug off a commitment or promise this week just because you don’t think it’s important. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22- Dec. 21): Play it cool. Don’t allow someone to get under your skin this week as this may be precisely the reaction they were looking for. Find constructive outlets to blow off steam such as sports or tackling chores around the house. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22- Jan. 19): May the force be with you. Just have a little faith that the universe is working with you and not against you, and everything will turn out for the best this week. Someone may be willing to help more than you anticipated. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 18): A well-tended garden blooms best. Don’t expect projects to become rousing successes unless you have provided the proper care and attention to making them work. Romantic prospects are likely to improve in the week ahead. PISCES (Feb. 19- Mar. 20): The means don’t always justify the ends. Giving simply to help out those in need is a wonderful thing, while giving to receive kudos is not quite as admirable. Ethical questions may seem irrelevant but could impact the future. (c) 2016 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Week’s

Last Week’s

Crossword ACROSS 1 Explosive sound 5 Outer __ 10 Not even ajar 14 “Born to Die” singer/songwriter Del Rey 15 Stadium divisions 16 Son of Leah 17 “You’re living in the past,” nowadays 20 Flower celebrated in an annual Ottawa festival 21 Move the boat, in a way 22 Painting option 23 Like a typical farmer’s market 25 “Gotcha!” 26 “You can’t go there,” nowadays 32 Peace Nobelist Sakharov 35 Elijah Blue’s mom 36 __ de coeur: impassioned plea 37 “Gone With the Wind” setting 38 “Whew!” 39 Sit a spell 40 The Pac-12’s Beavers 41 Ego 43 Citrine or amethyst 45 “Nobody can go there,” nowadays 48 A Bobbsey twin 49 Stops 53 Early New Zealand settler 56 “Something __, something ...” 58 Bug 59 “Never heard of you,” nowadays 62 Cinch 63 Sci-fi staple 64 Golf shot 65 Breton, e.g. 66 Band tour stop, perhaps 67 Building additions DOWN 1 Olive Oyl pursuer 2 Eagerly consume 3 One with degrees? 4 Sauce of southern Italy 5 Norm: Abbr. 6 Capital ENE of Custer 7 Prefix with 5-Across 8 Intercollegiate sport 9 Lawyer’s letters 10 Moccasin, for one 11 Man around the Haus

12 Layer in the eye 13 Considerable 18 Posthaste 19 Escort 24 “Here,” on Metro maps 25 “__ to Billie Joe” 27 Act the cynic 28 Coming up short 29 Bakery specialist 30 Before, to a bard 31 Scatterbrain 32 On the highest point of 33 Apollo’s creator 34 Pharmacopeia listing 38 Abbreviation on a lunch menu 39 Splendor 41 Gastropod for a gourmet 42 Geochronological span 43 “¿__ pasa?” 44 Three-time Indy winner Bobby 46 Transported 47 Favored to win 50 “60 Minutes” regular 51 Sri Lankan language 52 What a pedometer counts

Answers to last week’s puzzle

Martinez Tribune | Feb. 3-9, 2017 Email news tips to news@martineztribune.com

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FAITH: Continued from Page 7

strangers, we don’t go out alone, we always fear the worst. When we entrust our lives to God, then He becomes responsible for what happens to us. Whatever happens to us, He can give us peace and confidence that He will take care of us in the midst of threat.

Trusting in God’s Justice When a close friend had wronged me, I was deeply hurt and disappointed. But I entrusted the situation to God. My friend felt justified in his actions at the time, but a year later, he contacted

Where in Martinez? ...

“MAN ABOUT TOWN” JOHN GRUBKA/ Martinez Tribune

Where in Martinez was this photo taken? The first person to correctly identify the location will win two free tickets to Contra Costa Stadium Cinemas! Email admin@martineztribune.com or post your guesses in the comments section at http://martineztribune.com. Good luck! Last week’s winner, who correctly guessed Bagel Street Cafe in the Knob Hill Shopping Center, is Michael Donrad. Congratulations! Please note: due to the large volume of guesses, the Tribune does not respond to each entry. However, if you’re the first to successfully identify a location, we’ll email you for contact information. Thank you for participating!

me to apologize. He said that what he had done to me had now happened to him. He now knew how awful he had been and how it felt to be on the receiving end of such treatment. I wasn’t expecting an apology, but God had worked in his life to open his eyes. In my mind, God had brought about His flavor of justice. When we trust in God’s justice, we believe God sees everything. We believe that God feels deeply about what He sees and will respond when we entrust the situation to Him. I think we often judge God for being inactive, but we often fail to exercise our belief in God’s justice by committing situations to His care. God responds to our belief regarding His handling of injustice, not to the injustice itself. When we don’t trust in God, we feel we must secure our own justice. We get even, we protest, we sue, we refuse to forgive. When we entrust our lives to God, He doesn’t protect us from injustice. But God will work circumstances toward our eventual good, if only to teach us trust, patience, and forgiveness. An example from the Bible is the story of Joseph whose brothers sold him into slavery in Egypt. Joseph experienced many

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injustices, but he trusted in God who eventually rescued him and raised him to a position of honor where he saved many people during a time of famine. Trusting in God’s Kindness You may have noticed a theme in this article that God doesn’t protect us from hardship. What good is it to trust in God if we can’t be assured of an easier life? We experience hardship either way. When we trust in God, we can live in peace instead of fear. Hardship becomes a vehicle for God to show Himself to help us through challenges. God uses the hardship to teach us and change us into people of strength, confidence, and joy. What we believe about God is important. If we believe in a stingy, distant God, then we experience that very thing. If we believe in a loving, generous God, then we experience mercy and abundance. Our experience of God is based on what we believe about Him. Our belief is often formed by how we have judged the circumstances of our lives. We interpret hardship as God’s abandonment. If we entrust our hardship to God, He can work it to strip away those blocks in our lives that prevent us from experiencing Him.

Benefits of Trusting God If our experience of God has been negative, then it will be hard to trust. Try to move past judging God for your disappointments. Learn to trust God with your life circumstances. In doing so, fear will have less hold on you and peace will have a stronger hold. When we trust, we find it easier to be patient, to make sacrifices, and to take risks. When we fear, we take shortcuts and miss out on the benefits of a life lived deeply. Romans 14:23 says that whatever does not proceed from faith is sin. Using the language of this article, I can rephrase this to say: Whenever we don’t trust in God, we sin. When we don’t trust in God, we act from self-preservation that results in behaviors that oppose God’s law of love and deny His goodness. When we trust in God, we are free from sin because we are depending on Him. The goal for me is not freedom from sin because I know that Jesus had died to free me. My goal is freedom to experience God in every way possible, to experience His goodness and presence. When we trust in Him, we experience His involvement in our lives, which encourages us to trust in Him more. Read more at http://www. rickhocker.com/articles.html.

u ACREAGE: Continued from Page 5 Foundation is expected to be valued at around $3.5 million. 11) The exchange and purchase of trail easements along the Burton Ridge area of the Calaveras Ridge Trail serving to secure portions of the remaining right of way necessary to extend the Calaveras Ridge Regional Trail into Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve in San Ramon. 12) The acceptance of a 1.32-acre lease from Caltrans at Ardenwood (Fremont) in support of the District-wide fiber optics placement project. The Park District has optioned 364.95 acres scheduled to close escrow in 2017. These include: 1) The acceptance, pending completion of due diligence, of 43 acres of the Oakland Inner Harbor Tidal Canal from the Army Corp of Engineers helping to close several gaps in the SF Bay Trail in this area. 2) The exercise of option in partnership with the State Department of Parks and Recreation Habitat Conservation Fund grant program of the historic 191.45-acre Moller Ranch property at the main Somersville Road entrance to Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch, preserving riparian habitat and associated historic structures. 3) The option of three properties in partnership with the East Contra Costa Habitat Conservancy using both State and Federal grant funds, providing opportunities to protect habitat, seasonal drainages and associated special-status plant and animal species and develop possible trail connections to other open space: a) The option of the 10.5acre Nortonville property located near the western entrance to Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. b) The option of the 80-acre Campos/Fitzpatrick property at Byron Vernal Pools. c) The option of the 40acre Roddy Home Ranch within the future Deer Valley Regional Park. Additional purchases will be announced once they are complete.