May 2012 Community Focus

Delivered to Over 40,000 Homes and Businesses

• MAY 2012

Photos by Susanwoodphotography.com

HATS OFF TO THE GRADS!Announcements: $15 for up to 35 words, $30 with a photo. Email photo and text to

[email protected]. Deadline: 2nd Friday of each month Photo must be in jpeg format. One MB miniumum size.

Show them how proud you are by putting them in the Community Focus!

www.ourcommunityfocus.comPage 2 May 2012

Pleasant Hill

20112011 BusinessPersonOf The Year

BusinessPersonOf The Year

$5�o�$3�o�Valid at Pleasant Hill Grocery Outlet only. One coupon per person. Minimum purchase excludes dairy and alcohol. Not valid with any other o�er. No cash value. Duplicated coupons will not be accepted. Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase. Expires 05/31/12.

Valid at Pleasant Hill Grocery Outlet only. One coupon per person. Minimum purchase excludes dairy and alcohol. Not valid with any other o�er. No cash value. Duplicated coupons will not be accepted. Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase. Expires 05/31/12.

a $30 minimum purchase a $50 minimum purchase

Shop us first Get more.We carry many name brands you know and trust! Stop by and discover the bargains!

Jason & Kathy OlsonIndependent Owners/Operators

1671 Contra Costa Blvd. • Pleasant Hill, CA925-676-3660

8 am -9 pm Every Day!

www.ourcommunityfocus.comMay 2012 Page 3

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1970 Arnold Industrial Place, Suite B, Concord, CA 94520(925) 235-2200www.remnantflooring.com

Open from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.Saturday 8am to 11am or by appointment.

*Installation services provided by our affiliate company S.W. Contractors, Inc. Lic #879074.

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JULIE SAYS

Acoupleofmyfriendshaveteen-agerswhoareawayvolunteeringascounselorsforfifth-gradersparticipat-ingintheOutdoorEducationpro-gram.IlovethatOutdoorEdremainsonthecurriculumbecauseIthinkthere’snothingbetterforkidsthanbeingoutsideandlearningaboutournaturalworldfirsthand. Thismonth,thebookgroupIbe-longtoisreadingtheupdatededitionofLast Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit DisorderbyRichardLouv.Intheoriginal2005version,Louvexploredstudiesindicatingthatdirectexposuretonatureisessentialtoachild’shealthyphysicalandemotionalgrowth.Thenewedition,publishedin2008,includesnewevidencelinkingtheriseinobesity,depressionandattentiondisordersamongchildrenwithalackofexperienceinnature. Thebookisnotjustadryrehashofscientificstudiesandimpendingdoom.Theresearchisround-edoutwithdozensofwonderfulstoriesabouttheau-thor’sownpersonalcontactwithnaturegrowingup,aswellastheanecdotesofmanyotherpeoplethatgostraighttotheheart. OneofmyfavoritesisthisquotebybutterflyexpertRobertMichaelPyle,whoteacheschildrenaboutbutterfliesbyputtingaliveoneontheirnoses,engagingmanysenses:“Noses seem to make perfectly good perches or bask-ing spots, and the insect often remains for some time. Almost everyone is delighted by the light tickle, the close-up colors, the thread of a tongue probing for droplets of perspiration. But somewhere beyond delight lies enlightenment. I have been astonished at the small epiphanies I see in the eyes of a child in truly close con-tact with nature, perhaps for the first time. This can happen to grown-ups, too, reminding them of some-thing they never knew they had forgotten.” Wearesofortunatetolivewherewedo,withopenspacesgaloreandtheenormousopportunitytodiscovernaturaldelightsinourownneighborhoodsandanywhere,everywhere,throughouttheEastBay

RegionalParksDistrict. Ifyouarelucky,youwillremem-berbuildingfortsandtree-houseswhenyouwereyoung.Onegrown-upIknowofhasmanagedtoreconnectwithherloveofplayingoutdoorsbymakingitherbusiness.SanFranciscoresidentBarbaraButlerhasbeende-signingandbuildingamazing,envi-ronmentallyfriendlyplaystructuresandtree-housessince1987. Youcanfindouthowsomeonecan

gofrombeingapoliticalsciencemajorpursuingawritingcareer,tooneofthemostcreativegeneralcontractorsanywherebyattendingtheLindsayWild-lifeMuseumAlliance’sSpeakerEvent,featuringBar-baraButler. Thepresentation,“Castles,TreeFortsandZi-plines:HowHangingOutinTreesandDaydream-ingFinallyPaidOff,”willbeheldonMonday,May21atLindsayWildlifeMuseum,1931FirstAvenueinWalnutCreek.Therewillbealightbrunchbeginningat9:30amandBarbarawillcomeonstageandspeakfrom10:30untilnoon. Ticketsare$25perpersonandseatingislimited.Formoreinformationandtomakereservations,con-tactPennyAdamsatpnjadams@pacbell.netbyMay14.Ticketswillbeheldatthedoor.ProceedsbenefittheeducationandwildliferehabilitationprogramsatLindsayWildlifeMu-seum. PleasenotethatBarbaraalsodesignsbikegaragesandgardenshedsforgrownups.Or,haveherbuildyouthetree-houseofyourdreams.Justpretendit’sforthekids. CheckoutBar-bara’screationsatwww.barbarabuter.com.YoucanreachJulieatjuli-eakross@comcast.net.

Take it Outside!By Julie Ross

PUBLISHERSBecky Coburn, Jennifer Neys, Elena Hutslar

[email protected],000HomesandBusinessesinPleasantHill,Martinez,

Pacheco,LafayetteandWalnutCreek

ADVERTISING [email protected]

SPORTS EDITORChuck Nan

[email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGNTrish Heaney, Debra Wilson

COPY EDITORAlison Clary

View the Focus online: www.ourcommunityfocus.com

CONTACT INFORMATION:Community Calendar:

[email protected]

Content & General Inquiries: [email protected]

6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132Martinez, CA 94553

Phone: (925) 335 - NEWS (6397)

Independent & Locally Owned

The Community Focus is a free, independent, monthly publication dedicated to highlighting

the vibrancy of the local businesses and residents while strengthening and building connections

within our community.

MISSION STATEMENT

•RealEstate.......................................................page9•AsparagusCeviche..................................... page11•MartinezMemorialPool............................ page13•HomeImprovementGuide..................page16-18

•Sports............................................................page21-22•MeetPaulCotruvo...........................................page24•LifeisaBowlofCherries................................ page27•TeenScene........................................................ page30

Comebe our friend.the community focus


Honoring the Leader of the Doolittle RaidersInformation Submitted by Bob Fish

Hornet flight deck. Photo by susanwoodphotography.com.

Lt. Col. Doolittle(left), Capt. Mitscher (right) and crew, photo provided by Bob Fish.

OnMay5,theUSSHornetwillpart-nerwiththenewJimmyDoolittleAir&SpaceMuseumtohonorfamousaviationpioneerJimmyDoolittle.DoolittlewasborninAlamedaandaccomplishedmuchthroughouthislife,butperhapshismostlegendaryachievementwasleadingadar-ingWWIIairraidonJapanseventyyearsago. OnApril18,1942,then-LieutenantColonelDoolittleledhis“DoolittleRaid-ers”onanaerialattackofJapan.TheArmyAirForcessquadronconsistedofsixteenB-25bomberswhichtookofffromtheaircraftcarrier,HornetCV-8,thepredeces-sortothepresent-dayHornet. AlthoughbestknownforplanningandleadingtheraidoverTokyoduringWWII,Doolittlewasalsoaleaderinthe

advancementofaviationtechnology.Heassistedinthedevelopmentoftheartificialhorizonanddirectionalgyroscopesandbecamethefirstpilottoflyanairplanerelyingsolelyonflightinstruments.Atagetwenty-six,heflewthefirsttranscontinen-talflightinlessthantwenty-fourhoursinaDeHavillandDH-4.DoolittlereceivedhisBAfromUCBerkeleyandhismaster’sanddoctoratedegreesfromMIT. AmongthespecialguestspayingtributetoGen.DoolittlewillbehissonJohnP.Doolittle,retiredAirForceColonel,granddaughterJonnaDoolittleHoppes,andthreesurvivingmembersofthe“Doolittle’sRaiders,”whowillsharetheirmemoriesofDoolittleandthefirst-everlaunchofArmybombersintocombatoffanaircraftcarrier.CrewmenfromtheHornetCV-8,aswellas

Saturday, May 5, 1 - 4:30pmOnboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet• Museum opens at 10am • Public presentation at 1pm• Meet participants of Doolittle Raid • Book Signings• Special activities and exhibits plus tours of the ship. • Kids can “ride” in a flight simulator and/or sit in the cockpit of a real jet fighter.General museum prices ranging from $6 to $15 apply. Youth (4 & under) are free.

Fundraising Dinner, 5 - 9pm, $100 pp. Reservations required• B-25 Flyover for Dinner Guests • Personal Experiences RecountedHornet Museum, 707 W. Hornet Ave, Pier 3, Alameda. For information call 510-521-8448, or visit www.uss-hornet.orgProceeds benefit the USS Hornet Museum & Jimmy Doolittle Air & Space Museum at Travis Air Force Base.

individualswhoweredirectlyinvolvedwiththeRaidersinChina,willspeakaswell. ThreeoftheRaidersarescheduledtoattendthetribute.MajorThomasCarsonGriffin(Navigator,Plane9)wasselectedbyDoolittletogotothePentagontoworkonmapsthatwouldbeusedintheraid.Grif-finwasforcedtobailoutoverChina,buthewasrescuedbyChineseciviliansandlaterreturnedtoduty. AnotherguestRaiderwillbeLt.Col.EdwardJosephSaylor(Engineer/gunner,Plane15).WhilethesquadronwasbeingconvoyedtowardsJapanontheHornetCV-8,Saylordiscoveredthatoneofhisplane’sengineshadaseriousproblem.Knowingthatthestandingorderwastopushanynonfunctionalplaneoverboard,heroundedupaNavymaintenancecrewandtogethertheyremovedandrebuilttheengineintimefortakeoff.Theplanecarriedthesquadron’sonlydoctor,whichcouldhavemadeacriticaldifferencetothemission. ThethirdRaiderinattendancewillbeStaffSergeantDavidJ.Thatcher(Engineer/gunner,Plane7–thefamous“RupturedDuck”),whosavedanddefendedhiscrewafteranear-fatalcrashintotheseaofftheChinacoast.Forhisheroism,hewasawardedtheSilverStar.Followingthismission,heservedinNorthAfricaandEnglanduntilJuly1945. Followingtheaerialattack,mostoftheB-25crewmenthatwentdowninChinamadeittosafetywiththehelpofChinesecivilians.However,theChinesepaiddearlyfortheirassistance,astheJapa-nesekilledanestimated250,000civilianswhilesearchingforDoolittle’smen.SomeofthedescendantsoftheChinesefamilies

whohelpedrescuetheDoolittleRaidersareattendingandspeaking. TheHornetCV-8wasattackedandsunkjustsixmonthsafterthefamousDoolittlemission.Itssuccessor,theUSSHornet(HornetCV-12)isnowberthedinAlameda.TheUSSHornetadvanceditspredecessor’straditionofgreatness-bothinwarandastherecoveryshipfortheApollo11lunarmission-andtodayhousesoneoftheBayArea’smostfamousmilitaryandspacehistorymuseums.“WeareextremelyhonoredtobethehostforthisspecialtributetoGen.JimmyDoolit-tle,”saidRandallRamian,CEOofUSSHornetMuseum.“ThisspecialeventalsoprovidesanopportunityforpeopletolearnabouttherolethefirstHornetplayedinthishistoricalevent.” “IthasbeenseventyyearssincetheairraidonTokyoandwehopethatanewgenerationwilljoinusinrememberingandlearningaboutJimmyDoolittle.HehadaspecialconnectiontoNorthernCali-fornia,”saidMajorGeneralU.S.AirForce(Ret.)ThomasKane,ExecutiveDirectorofthenewJimmyDoolittleAir&SpaceMuseum.“WeareveryexcitedbytheplansforanewmuseuminSolanoCountythatwillbededicatedinhishonor.Hewasatruepioneerinaviationhistory.” It’slikelythisisthelasttimeanyoftheremainingfiveDoolittleRaiderswilleverbeintheBayArea,socomeoutandcheeryourheroes! TributetoJimmyDoolittleisonSaturday,May5,1–4:30pm,onboardtheAircraftCarrier,USSHornetMuseum,707W.HornetAve.,Pier3,Alameda.Regularadmissionpricesapply.Visitwww.uss-hornet.orgformoreinformation.


In Motion Dance Center Top HonorsBy Diane Rivest

Studio A Wins BigSubmitted By Colleen Gianatiempo

CongratulationstoInMotionDanceCenterofMartinezonitsper-formanceinMarchatthe“ILOVEDANCE”CompetitioninSanRamon!Elevenoutofthirteenentriesreceivedfirstplaceintheircategory,andtheoth-ertworeceivedsecondplace. The“ILOVEDANCE”competi-tionhasatraditionalawardsystem

whereonlyfirst,secondandthirdplacewinnersarerecognized.Thisisincontrasttotheadjudicatedsystemthemajorityofdancecompetitionsprac-ticenowadays,whereallentriesgetanaward. “Itwasincrediblyrewardingtoseeallourdancesplacefirstorsecond,”saidDeenaRoming,directorofInMotion.

OvereightycompetitivedancersfromStudioAinPleasantHillper-formedandcompetedintap,jazz,balletandhiphopintheLegacyDanceCom-petitionattheMemorialAuditoriuminSacramento.StudioAcompetedwithovertwentyotherstudiosaroundtheBayArea,andfortyoftheforty-twodancenumberstheyperformedplaced

inthetoptenwithintheircategory.Onequarteroftheawardswerefirstplaceawards.StudioAdancersearnedtwo“LegacyHighPointAwards,”thirty-threePlatinumAwards,nineEliteGoldAwardsandoneGoldAwardwalkingawaywithover$1,000inprizes. Thestudiowasgivensevenspecialjudgesawardsaswell.

Visit them at www. .com

or email Donand

PleasantHillRealEstate

[email protected]#1 since 1994

Don & Norma Flaskerud

Erik Flaskerud

Re/Max CC Connection

925-676-5859

Call Pleasant Hill’s for ALL your Real Estate needsRealtor#1

Over *reasons465Over *reasons465to choose


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DRE #s — Don: 00971602, Norma: 00867031, :Erik 01891688

1798 La Playa Dr, Lafayette — $699,950

1969 Lucille Lane, Pleasant Hill — $329,000

Call now to have your home featured here!

Don and Norma’s listings...

Top Row: Teacher, AJ Rogers and Director, Deena Roming. Pictured Dancers: Jessica Caswell, Alanna DeAmaral, Ava Minoli, Lexy Holton, Olivia Poggi, Shelby Holton, Marti Doke, Caroline Chouinard, Jas-mine Romero, Taylor Setchell, Kely Moran, Jesse Doke, Nicole Hansen, Ally Spencer, Alysa Fonken, Mikela Patrick, Abby Pryor, Callie Hernandez, Julia Cole, Lauren Aboussie, Lindsey Cole, Taylor Fetter-man, Deja Lau-Deudor, Summer Neal, Kylie Blair, Katie Stratmeyer, Tatiana Ama, Sydney Price, Yara Ellian and Kennedy Quintal

Additionally,threeroutinesre-ceivedOverallHighAwardsandtwomorereceivedcashprizes!TopscorewenttoCoriHeckmann’stapchoreog-raphyto“Secrets”andBestMusicalitywenttoDeenaRoming’schoreography

to“JetSet.”Hip-hopteacherA.J.RogersalsoreceivedaTeacher’sAwardforhishelpatthecompetition. AllInMotiondancersdidanamaz-ingjobandmadetheirteachersandparentsextremelyproud!

Lauren Stone Jazz Legato.Dance at Moonlight

Petite Debut won Top Primary Large Group


Architectural Review CommissionMay 3, 17City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneLarge Community Room, 5:00pmContact: 671-5209

City CouncilMay 7, 21City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneCouncil Chambers, 7:30pmContact: 671-5229

Civic Action CommissionMay 2City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneSmall Community Room, 6:30pmContact: 671-5229

Education CommissionMay 23City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneLarge Community Room, 7:00pmContact: 671-5229

Planning CommissionMay 8, 22City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneCouncil Chambers, 7:30pmContact: 671-5209

Zoning AdministratorMay 10, 24City Hall, 100 Gregory LanePublic Works ConferenceRoom, 5:00pmContact: 671-5209

City Calendar of Events

For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us

PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZMayor’s Message

John Hanecak, Mayor of Pleasant Hill Animpor-tantdutyofanyelectedofficialistolistentotheirconstituents.Thiscanbeaccom-plishedeitherpassively,waitingforthephonecallorrequestedvisit,oractively,reachingouttothecommunitythroughvariousmeans:workshops,town-hallmeetingsorwalkingthroughthecommunity(popularduringelec-tions).Onegroupthatisn’talwaysapproachedandwhowedon’toftenknowagreatdealabout,istheyouthofourcommunity.Thisisusuallybecausetheydon’tyetvoteandarealreadyveryinvolvedwiththeirfamilies,schoolsandafter-schoolactivities.Havingbeentheyouthliaisonforthepastsevenyears,I’veheardmanygreatideasandsuggestionsfromouryoungpeople,buthavebeenunabletocommunicateacomprehensivemessageasthesesmall

groupseachrepresentedaspecificinterestorconcern.Hearingouryouth’scollectivethoughtsiswhatIhopewillbetheproductofapilotprogramcalledPleasantHillYouthSummit. ThepilotprogramwasfashionedwiththehelpoftheMountDiabloSchoolDistrict,thePleasantHillRec-reationandParksDistrict,PleasantHillvolunteersand,ofcourse,ouryouth.SomehaveaskedwhatcomesafterwehaveheardfromtheyouthandIexplainthatIdon’tyetknowhowthegreatercommunitywillreceivetheirideas.Weatcityhallwillcertainlyconsidertheminourdiscussions,andItrustthatotherorganizationsthroughoutthecitywillalsoappreciatethisdirection(communityservicedayprojects,EagleScoutprojects,com-munityserviceopportunities,etc.).Inaddition,theyouththemselvesmayinspireeachothertomakeanevengreaterdifferenceinourcommunity,beyondwhattheyalreadydo.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Herearemorespecificdetails:WhyaYouthSummit?Tohearfrom6th-12thgradeyouthwholiveinPleasantHilland/orattendPleasantHillschools.AninitialpilotprojectwilltakeplacefocusingonCollegeParkHighSchoolandValleyViewMiddleSchoolstudents,withaddi-tionalinputfrom6th-12thgradersthroughoutthecity.DuringApril,wegatheredinformationfromstudentsbyaskingfortheirresponsetofourquestions:1) What do you like about Pleasant Hill; 2) What would you like to change about Pleasant Hill; 3) What are questions you have about Pleas-ant Hill, and 4) Do you have any other ideas, suggestions or questions?Wewill

compiletheresponsesinearlyMay.OnThursday,May24thfrom3:30-5:30pm,wewillholdourpilotPleasantHillYouthSummitatValleyViewMiddleSchool,whichwillprovideaprioritizedlistofouryouth’sthoughts,suggestionsandquestions.ThatlistwouldthenbedistributedthroughoutthecommunityintheOutlook newsletterandtheCom-munity Focus newspaper. Any6th-12thgraderesidentand/orstudentisinvitedtosubmittheirthoughtsonlineateitherwww.pleas-ant-hill.net/youthsummitsurveyoronFacebook,atwww.facebook.com/PleasantHillYouthSummit.PleasecallMartinNelisifyouhaveanyques-tions:925-671-5229.

Valley View Middle School students completing the four-question survey. Their answers will be compiled and shared at the Youth Summit on May 24.

Buena Vista Swim ClubOpen house saturday may 12

Memberships Still Available For Summer 2012• Quiet, relaxed, shaded lawn setting • Lifeguards on duty - Gated kiddy pool

• Holiday Parties, BBQ and Picnic area • No swim team to interfere with pool access

come join us noon to four p.m.come join us noon to four p.m.

• New members receive (4) 30-minute private swim lessons• Private swim lessons open to non-members.

Call Karen Jovin (510)366-9344 or Jane Locke (510)590-8481

For membership inquiries Contact Christine at [email protected] Cortsen Road, Pleasant Hill • www.buenavistaswimclub.org

Memberships Still Available For Summer 2012


Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345

MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Pleasant Hill Chamber Leadership Luncheon was provided by Rubio’s Restaurant.Photo by SusanWoodPhotography.com

Martinez Ribbon CuttingAltera Real Estate

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

Please verify schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com • 925-687-0700

PLEASANT HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Altera Signature Properties would like to thank all who joined us on March 29 for our grand opening and ribbon cutting event! We felt welcomed by all. We are proud members of the Martinez Chamber of Commerce, and we look forward to working closely with the sur-rounding businesses and doing our part to give back to the community. Please feel free to come by our office and introduce yourself! We support several great causes and the silent auction at our grand opening raised funds for “Troops Direct.” We would like to congratulate the auction winner, Lori Swenson from US Bank, who will enjoy a two-night resort stay donated by Maxine Chan, an Altera Associate Broker. The $225 of proceeds will purchase 500 lbs. of military supplies to be sent over seas via the “Troops Direct” foundation. Altera Signature Properties “Pride Begins at Home” Cindy Humphrey (Broker/Owner) and Kenny R. Ga (Manager), 531 Main St, Martinez.

Leadership Luncheon

Ambassador Meeting–Ifinterested,con-tactReba:(925)[email protected]

5/16 - Chamber Mixer5:30-7:30pm.FiveChamberMixer(Martinez,Lafayette,Pleas-antHill,Concord&Hispanic).MartinezEventCenter,524MainStreet,Martinez.

5/17 - Educational Series #3CooperativeMarketing&AdvertisingStrategiesforSmallBusinesses12-1pm.PresentedbyFadhilaHolman,CEO,CaliforniaPacificFederalCreditUnion.Doorsopenat11:30am.JohnMuirBestWesternInn,445MuirStationRd.Free/ChamberMembers/$10General.Lunchprovided.Spacelimited.RSVP:[email protected].

5/28 - Office Closed – Memorial Day

5/31 - Chamber Mixer5:30-7:30pm.MService,Inc.,2008Mt.DiabloBlvd.,WalnutCreek.Bringaraffleprizeandhaveyourbusinessannounced!

SAVE THE DATE:6/16 & 17 - 6th Annual King of the County BBQ & Music Festival11am-

6pm,Father’sDayweekend.MartinezWa-terfrontPark.FamilyFun,LipSmackin’BBQ,AmateurBBQCompetition,Rockin’Music,Arts&CraftsBooths,Kid’sRidesandActivi-ties,MicrobreweriesandWineries,VendorSpaceAvailable,Freeadmissionandpark-ing.Visitwww.CountyBBQ.comorcalltheMartinezChamberformoreinformation! CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

5/1 - Ribbon Cutting YMCA350CivicDr.,PleasantHill,4:30pm

5/4 - Ambassador MeetingPleasantHillCityHall,8am-9am

5/8 – Leadership Lunch – Yan’s Garden2223MorelloAve.,PleasantHill,11:45pm-1pm

5/16 – Five Chamber Mixer - Martinez Event Center524MainStreet,MartinezMartinez,Lafayette,PleasantHill,Concord&HispanicChambers.5pm-7pm

5/17 – Board of Directors MeetingPHCityHall,7:45am

5/28– Green CommitteeBackFortyTexasBBQ,100CogginsDr.,PleasantHill,4pm-5pm

5/28 – Government Affairs CommitteeBackFortyTexasBBQ,100CogginsDr.,PleasantHill,4:30pm-6:00pm

15C Vivian Dr Pleasant Hill, CA(Behind Jack in The Box)

925-798-5561Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM – 4 PM

shop for bargains, shop for foster children

Youth Homes Auxiliary Thrift Shop raises money in support of the

needs of young people in the care of Youth Homes, Inc.

SENIOR 5% DISCOUNT EVERYDAY

Photo by Elena Hutslar.


Whileeventhestaunchesthousingdetractorsouttherehaveacceptedthefactthatareboundisoccurring,thedebateoverhowlongitwilllastorwhetheritwilltriple-dipisrapidlypickingupsteam. FuelingthedebateisarecentreportbyCoreLogic®whichestimatesthatuptoeightmillionhomesmayfaceforeclosureoverthenextfiveyears.Toputthatnum-berinperspective,lessthanfourmillionhomeshavebeenlosttoforeclosuresincethebubbleburstin2006. Thepessimistichousingpunditsareinsistingthatthisnumberisaveryrealis-ticpossibility,citingthefactthatfirst-timeforeclosurefilingswereupsevenpercentinMarchversusFebruary,thethirdsuchcon-secutivemonthlyincrease. Whyforeclosurefilingsareupissim-pletoexplain.Nowthattheyhaveputtheirrobo-signingscandalbehindthem,themajorlendershavedonnedtheirgrimreaperoutfitsagainandarebeginningtoworkthroughabacklogofdefaultedmort-

gages.Manywouldhaveyoubelievethattheforeclosuredamisabouttoburst,thatwe’regoingtobefloodedwithnewinven-tory,andhomevaluesaregoingtodropyetagain. Personally,I’mnotbuyingit. First,onlyasmallpercentageofthosehomeswillevermakeittomarket.Mort-gagemodificationsareoccurringinrecordnumbers,thankstorecentfederallegisla-tionincentivizinglenderstokeephom-eownersintheirhomes. Second,atleastlocallyanyway,anyinventorythatdoesmakeittomarketwillbeabsorbedlikespilledjuiceonapapertowelcommercial.Anyonewhodisagreesshouldcometothefrontlinesofthehous-ingmarketwithmeandtrytobuyahouse.Herearesomeexamplesofwhattheywouldexperience: •YesterdayItooktwodifferenthome-buyerclientsouttoviewatotalofeighthomescurrentlylistedforsaleinPleasantHillandMartinez.Today,allbutoneof

thosepropertiesarenowpendingsale,withanaveragemarkettimeofonlythreedays. •InPleasantHill,ouractiveinventoryhasfallenfromsixty-eighthomestothirty-onehomesinlessthanthreemonths.Theaveragenumberofdaysonmarkethasfall-enfromsixty-onedaystothirty-eightdaysinthatsametime-frame. •Threeweeksago,oneofmyagentswroteandpresentedanofferonbehalfofabuyerclientforahomeinConcord.Twodayslater,shelearnedthatthesellershadchosentogowithanotheroffer…oneofforty-fouroffersthesellerreceivedaftersixdaysonthemarket. Soifthereisindeedaglutofinventorythatisreadytohitthemarket,Isaybringiton.Iknowofatleastforty-threebuyerswhowouldbehappytopurchaseoneofthosehomes. NathanHitchcockisthemanag-ingbrokerofHitchcockRealty,[email protected](925)825-1100.

Real Estate UpdateBy Nathan Hitchcock

HOUSING NEWS

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Ooh’s, Ah’s, & Giggles (Free Family Shows)All shows performed in the City Council Chamber, 525 Henrietta Street on Wednesdays at 3:30 pm.Performer Schedule:• May 2: Puppet Art Theater Co. • May 9: The Magic of Gerald Joseph• May 16: Spectacular Jeremy Schafer • May 23: Randel McGee and GoarkO0hs, Ahs, & Giggles is entirely funded by the Martinez Restaurant Tour

Rankin Aquatic Center’s May Pool Play DayOn Wednesday, May 30 from 2-4pm, meet the lifeguards, tour the facility and learn about pool and day camp programs offered for the 2012 season. Lifeguards will present water safety stories, songs and activities, then off to the Recreation Pool for splash time under the buck-et. The afternoon ends with a drawing for a $25 Rankin Aquatic Center Gift Certificate. $2 per adult and $1 per child, Children 2 and under are free. All ages welcome!

MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ

City Calendar of Events

Formostofmylife,Ihavebeeninvolvedincom-munityserviceinonewayoranoth-er.Asaboy,IwasamemberoftheBoyScoutsandat-tainedtherankofEagle.Inhighschool,Iwasactiveinstudentgovernment,serv-inginmanycapacitiesincludingjuniorclasspresident.Andnow,inmyadultlife,IhavehadthehonorandprivilegeofservingthecitizensofMartinezasaplan-ningcommissioner,councilmember,andmayor. Iwasfortunateenoughtogrowupinafamilythatwasveryinvolvedincom-munityandpublicservice.MyfatherservedontheWalnutCreekCityCouncilandtheContraCostaBoardofSupervi-sorsforoverthirtyyears.Iwastaughtataveryyoungagehowimportantitisforeverymemberofthecommunitytogivebackinsomeway.Butevenwiththat

backgroundandupbringing,thereweretimesIwouldsay,“Whyisn’tthecitydo-ingthisorthat?”or“Thisistheresponsi-bilityofthecity,notmine.”Itwasnotun-tilIwasplacedinapositionofsomeau-thorityinlocalgovernmentthatIrealizedsolvingproblemsandmeetingneedsisnotjusttheresponsibilityoflocalgovern-ment,butthecooperativeeffortoflocalcitizens,businesses,andindustryworkingtogetherwithlocalgovernmenttomeetstheneedsofthecommunity. Ashiningexampleofthelocalbusi-nesscommunityworkingforthebetter-mentofouroverallcommunityisShellOil.ShellhasbeenapartoftheMartinezcommunitysincebuildingtheirfirstre-fineryintheUnitedStatesin1915.Shellcurrentlyemploysover700people,hasbetween200and300contractors,andpaysover$20millioninpropertytaxes(which,unfortunately,wehavetosharewiththecountyandstate).ManyofMar-tinez’pioneerfamilieshavebeenem-ployedbyShell,nowandinthepast.

Mayor’s Message Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez

BesidesprovidingemploymenttomanypeopleinContraCostaCoun-ty,ShellhasproveditselftobeavaluedmemberoftheMartinezcommunitythroughtheirsocialperformancegoals:responsibility-beingaresponsiblecor-poratecitizenandbuildingacultureofsafetyandcommunitysensitivity;leader-ship-throughcommunityprojects,be-inganintegralpartofthefabricofthecommunity;andengagement–workingwithlocalgovernmentandcivicgroupstounderstandlocalconcerns. Mostrecently,Shell’sGeneralMan-agerPaulGabbardpresentedtheMarti-nezCityCouncilandmewithacontri-butionof$500,000forimprovementsintheMartinezwaterfrontandmarina.ThisshowofsupportforthesensitiveMarti-nezwaterfrontshowsShell’scommitmenttothepreservationandenhancementofamajorcommunityasset.Inaddition,Shellcontributesover$300,000inother

communityactivitieseachandeveryyear.Shell’ssignatureevent,Shell/MEFRunforEducation,hasraisedover$300,000alonefortheMartinezUnifiedSchoolDistrictsinceitsinceptionin2003. Besidesmonetarycontributions,Shellanditsemployeesgiveoftheirtimeandlabor.OveronethirdofShellem-ployeesparticipatedinatleastonecom-munityprojectlastyearandeveryyearsincebefore2005.AtleastfiftyprojectswerecompletedoverthelastfewyearsincludinginstallationofnewlightsupanddownMainStreet,improvementstotheMartinezBoys&GirlsClub,andpaintingoftheMartinezLibrary,SeniorCommu-nityCenter,MartinezVeteransMemorialBuilding,andMartinezMuseum. ItisthistypeofcorporatecultureandcommunityengagementthathelpsMartinezbethewonderfulplacethatitis.ThankyouShellandtheShellemployeesforwhatyoudoforourcommunity.

Martinez City Happenings

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City Council MeetingMay 2, 167:00pm-11:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

Design Review MeetingMay 9, 233:00pm-5:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

Park, Recreation, Marina &Cultural CommissionMay 157:00pm-11:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

Planning Commission MeetingMay 8, 227:00pm-11:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

Zoning Administrator MeetingMay 2,163:00pm-5:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

May 28 City offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day.

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Stop by and see us today.

Mailbox services from The UPS Store® make your life easier with: 1MONTH

FREEWITH A 3-MONTH MAILBOX SERVICES AGREEMENT (New Box Holders Only)

All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise IndicatedFor Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org


Asparagus CevicheINGREDIENTS1poundasparagusspears,chopped1poundshrimp,cookedandchopped1cupcrabmeat,shredded1bunchgreenonions,chopped1/2cupchoppedredonions11/2cucumbers,peeledandchopped1/2cupcilantroleaves,chopped1cupchoppedtomato2cupsshreddedcabbage1jalapenopepper,seededandchopped2lemons,juiced

3limes,juiced1-4clovesofgarlic,totasteSaltandpeppertotaste1-2largeavocados,choppedDIRECTIONSInalargebowl,tossallingredients(ex-ceptavocado)gentlyuntilwellmixed.Coverandchillfor30to45minutestoallowflavorstoblend.Addavocadojustbeforeserving.Yield: 4-6 Servings

CORKS AND FORKS

Pair UpWith La Sommelierre Maria Terry

Brie and Pear Salad with Creamy Strawberry DressingINGREDIENTSFor the salad:1smallroundofbriecheese4pearsRomainelettuceoryourfavoritesaladgreens1basketfresh,ripeCaliforniastrawber-riesFor the dressing:1/4cupraspberryvinegar3/4cupnon-fatsourcream1cupfresh,ripeCaliforniastrawberries

1tbsp.high-qualitystrawberrypre-servesDIRECTIONSSlicebriecheeseintobite-sizedpieces.Slicepearsvertically.Placegreensonfourplates.Placepearsandcheeseatopgreens.Putstrawberryslicesaroundsaladandatopgreens.Putdressingingredientsinablenderorfoodproces-sorandwhiskforoneminute.Drizzleoversalad.Yield: 8 Servings

Festival FoodsFestivalsareagreatwaytocelebrate

thebestfoodsourcountryhastoofferwhetheritisproduce,seafoodorjustold-fashionedcaramelpopcorn.

TheCaliforniaStrawberryFestivalisheldeachyearinOxnard,CaliforniaonthethirdweekendinMay.Strawberriesaddagreatburstofacidandbeautifulcolortoasalad.Pairedwithbriecheeseandfreshpears,thentoppedwithtangysourcreamdressing,thissaladneedsawinewithbub-blestocutthroughthecreamydressingandabitofsugartobalancethesweetnessoftheberries.ProseccooranAstiSpumantifromItalyarebothgreatoptions.

ClosertotheSanFranciscoBayArea,theAsparagusFestivaltakesplaceinStockton,California.ThisyearitwasheldthelastweekendinApril.Asasecond

course,tryAsparagusCeviche.Itisasub-stantialsaladthatblendscookedshrimpandcrabwithrawasparagus.Inmostcevi-che,thecitrusjuicescookthefish;inthiscase,thejuicescooktheasparagus!As-paragushasatendencytomakewinestastevegetalandcallsforawinewithintensefruitflavorlikeRiesling.Furthermore,thesaladhasjalapeño,garlicandonion,sothespicieryoulikeit,themoresugaryourwineneedstobalancetheheat.GermanRieslingsofferbothdryandoff-drywineswithexcellentacidtostanduptothecitrusjuices.IfyoupreferAmericanwines,lookforRieslingfromMendocinoCountyorWashingtonState.Theseregionsarecooler,fromahigherlatitudeand,therefore,usu-allyproducewineswithhigherlevelsofacidity.

VidaliaOnionBBQ’dHamutilizes

thesupersweetonionsfromthestateofGeorgia’sVidaliaOnionFestival.Simplysautétheonionswithgarlicandaddthemtoyourfavoritevinegar-based,store-boughtsauce.GewürztraminerwinehasasweetspicinessthatwillworkwellwiththehamandCaramelCornSweetPotatoesontheside.Youcan’tgotoafestivalwithoutfind-ingcaramelpopcorn,andyouwon’tevenmissdessertifyoufinishyoureveningwith

thesetwodishes.FindtheVidaliaOnionBBQ’dHamandCarmelPopcornCrustedSweetPotatoesrecipesonmywebsite,www.LaSommelierre.com.

So,goon.PairUp!MariaTerryisaCertifiedSomme-

lierandWineEducatorintheSanFran-ciscoBayArea.FormoregreatwinesandinformationpleasevisitMaria’swebsiteatwww.LaSommelierre.com.

Boutique Style Consignment Store “Bay Area Parent” Magazine Family Favorite Since 2004!

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Saturdays, 9 am-1 pm • Rain or ShineGrand Opening Celebration May 5th

Cooking demonstrations and tasting sessions with Farmers’ Market Chef Mario Hernandez

Live Music • Face Painting • JoJo the Clown

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HIGH SCHOOL HAPPENINGS

CP German Students Head to Germany

Survey for Summit

Notes and Noodles

CollegeParkGermanteacherZheraOtusisinthefinalstagesoforganizingagroupofstudentsfortheirupcomingtriptoGermanyaspartoftheGermanAmericanPartnershipProgram(GAPP).

2012willbeherthirdtimeasGAPPco-ordinatoroftheexchangeprogram.“WehadtwentyGermanstudentscomethisspringandIwilltravelwithfourteenCol-legeParkstudentstoGermanythissum-

mer.”TheywillflytoGermanyinJuneandspend3weeksinHeidenheim,asmalltowninsouthernGermany. Otussays“Wewillattendclassesatthepartnerschool, Hellenstein Gymnasium,goonex-cursionstonearbycitieslikeMunichandUlm,anddo local activitieslikevisitcityhallandthecitycastle. WewillhavethreedaysinBerlintogettoknowthecapitolanditshistoryfirsthand.” Otusexplainsthat“GAPP isoneofthelongest-runningexchangeprogramsinthenationandis acknowledged asoneofthebestculturalandacademicexchangeprogramsinthecountry. Thephiloso-phyisthatteenagerscanaccessanotherculturebestthroughpersonalexperienceandsocialinteractionwithpeers. Inourprogram,eachparticipanthasapartnerfromtheotherculture. WhentheGer-

mangroupishere,thestudentsstaywiththeirpartnersandexperiencethelifeofanAmericanhighschoolstudent. WhenwegotoGermany,mystudentsexperiencethelifeofaGermanhighschoolstudent.” TheHunterfamilyandotherCol-legeParkfamiliesrecentlyhostedGer-manstudentsforthreeweeksfromMarch22throughApril12.AfarewellpartywasheldforalltheexchangestudentsattheirhomeonApril11.DebbieHunterob-served“Thisisoursecondtimehostingastudent,andit’sbeenagreatexperienceformykidsaswellasthosecomingoverfromGermany.Theupsideforourfam-ilyislearningaboutthecultureofanothercountryandseeinghoweachstudentre-actedtoAmericansites,stores,foodandtheAmericanlifestyle.It’slikebeingatouristinyourowntown.”

On April 17 & 18, College Park students had an opportunity to complete a four-question survey as part of the Pleasant Hill Youth Summit. Mayor John Hane-cak will host a Summit on Thursday, May 24th from 3:30-5:30pm in the Multi-Use Room at Valley View Middle School. The Youth Summit is an opportunity for the community to hear the voices of Pleasant Hill’s youth. You can find the Youth Sum-mit Survey online at www.pleasanthill.com/youthsummitsurvey.

Pictured are 8 of the 14 College Park students who will be heading to Germany this June as part of the German American Partnership Program (GAPP). Top LtoR: Jason Quintana, Lindsay Brown, Kylie Aliamus. Bottom LtoR: Christianna Stafford, Haley Foust, Justin O’Sullivan, Peter Stapleton and Natalie VanVlissingen. Photo by Jennifer Neys

ThefourthannualNotes&NoodlesfundraiseronMarch16wasorganizedbytheAlhambraHighSchoolArtsFounda-tionandbenefitedthemusicdepartmentatAlhambraHighSchool. AccordingtoCarrieFrancis,“Thenameisderivedfromthefactthattheorchestraandbandprovidemusic,hencetheNOTES,anditisapastafeed,hencetheNOODLES!”TheAlhambraHighSchoolbandplayedforanaudienceofabout150andtheeventraised$3700.00forthemusicde-

partment.“VolunteerandAlhambraalumPaulKellyandcrewgraciouslydo-natedtheirtimeandefforttopreparetheentiremealfortheevening,”saidFrancis. TheArtsFoundationconsistsofagroupofparentswhoarededicatedtodo-ingavarietyoffundraisersthatsupportfineartsinthehighschoolthoughart,drama,andmusicprograms.Inthepastyeartheypurchasedalaptopcomputerfortheartdepartmentandscriptsforthedramadepartment.

The Alhambra High School band performed in the pouring rain for “Notes and Noodles” fundraiser outside the Alhambra Commons. Photo Credit: Steve and Carrie Francis

HATS OFF TO THE GRADS!Show them how

proud you are by putting your grad in

the Community Focus! Announcements: $15 for up to 35 words, $30 with a photo.

Email photo and text to [email protected]. Deadline: 2nd Friday of each month. Photo must

be in jpeg format.

www.ourcommunityfocus.comJune 2011 Page 15

Grad Announcements

Caitlin A. Diggs, College ParkCongratulations Caitlin! We are proud

of YOU, your accomplishments and

hard work. Off to Davis to make your

dreams a reality! There couldn’t be a

prouder family. Love You, Dad, Mom,

Jack and Molly

Dane Hutslar, College Park 2011We are beyond proud of the young

man you have become and look

forward to watching your bright future

unfold. The world is waiting for YOU!

With much love, Mom, Dad, Brandon,

Cole and Devin.

We’re proud of you, Erik Naccara! College Park, 2011You’ve worked so hard and now

you’re off for a great adventure at the

Prep school for the US Coast Guard

Academy. Oh, the places you’ll see!

Next stop, New London!! Love, Mom,

Dad and Allie

Congratulations to Forest McMillin! College Park 2011 As you gradu-

ate from CPHS and head off to UCSB,

I want to tell you how proud of you I

am. Your accomplishments continu-

ally amaze me. You have my love and

support on any journey you take. May

your dreams come true! Love, Mom.

Jason Eitelgeorge, Alhambra High 2011 “All your dreams can come

true... if you have the courage to pur-

sue them.” - Walt Disney. Congratula-

tions! We are very proud of you.

Love, Dad, Mom, Eric and Jeffrey

Kelsey Ertola, Alhambra High SchoolWe are so proud of you and excited

for you as you go forth on your journey

to Sonoma State and beyond. Con-

gratulations!

We love you, Mom, Dad, Anthony and

Nick

Lauren Cefali, College ParkCongratulations on your graduation

and being accepted to the Coast

Guard Academy. You are an amazing

person; we are so proud of you and

love you so much! Love Mom, Dad,

and WIll.

Madeline Jane Weiss, Bentley School Congratulations, Maddie! We

could not be more proud of you and

we share your excitement about your

next adventure at Southern Oregon.

All our love, Mom, Gibby, Jack and

Benjamin

Maggie Schoemann, College ParkWe are so proud of you as you gradu-

ate from high school. Your energy,

enthusiasm, and passion will carry you

a long way in life. Follow your dreams

and never give up. Love, Mom and

Dad.

Molly Gaoiran We are proud of the

young lady you have become! Can’t

wait to see you playing Water Polo at

DVC! Your beauty comes from your

heart and we love you!

Mom & Dad

Steven St. Germain proudly gradu-

ates with honors from College Park on

June 6th. Active in the classroom, on

athletic teams and in our community,

Steven will continue his pursuits at

UCLA this fall. Congratulations!

Katherine Duran Congratulations on

your graduation from College Park.

The success you’ve achieved is a

great foundation for your future. We

are very proud of you and confident

that you will do great at Saint Mary’s.

Love, Mom, Dad, Elizabeth and

Grandma Diane

Ethan Marsh, College ParkCongratulations on your many ac-

complishments over the years. We are

so happy and very proud of you. We

wish you nothing but the best always.

Love, Mom, Dad and Kendall

If you would like to announce your graduate please contact us for more [email protected]


MARTINEZ HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Martinez Memorial PoolBy Gay Gerlack

I would like to thank Patty Lorick, Rec-reation Supervisor for Martinez Parks and Recreation, and John Curtis, Presi-dent of the Martinez Historical Society, for providing research material and pho-tos. TheMartinezWorldWarIIMe-morialPoolwasdedicatedonSatur-dayMay15,1948,at2pmasalivingwarmemorialforlocalyoungsters.Thelongawaitedprojectwasconstructedatacostof$80,000andwassubjectedtothedelaysofdepressionandwar,yetthecommunityperseveredanda“new-esttype”ofpoolwith“maximumsafe-ty”and“enjoyment”forthechildren,swimmers,anddiversofMartinezwasbuilt. Aweekbeforethededication,withthefinalplansrapidlydrawingtoaclose,theMartinezChamberofCom-merceofficialswereexpectingacapac-

itycrowdfortheopeningdayevent.Cityemployeesandacrewofworkmen“loaned”bytheShellOilCompanywereputtingfinishingtouchesonthepoolitselfandannouncedthat“every-thingwillbeinfineshapefortheoffi-cialdedication.” Bleacherswereinstalled,aidedbyacrewofmanualtrainingstudentsfromAlhambraHighSchool.Flags,bun-tinganddecorationswereinplaceandMartinezwasabuzzwithanticipationforthenationaltrans-continentalNBCbroadcastdedicationceremonies. Thetwo-daydedicationeventsopenedwithaperformanceoftheStarSpangledBannerbytheAlhambraHighSchoolBand;aninvocationbytheRev.PeterSammon;awelcomebyMayorJackFriesand,finally,anintro-ductionofdistinguishedguests. TheMCfortheeventwasHarry

The First “Splashes” The New Rankin Park Pool

Bathing Beauties

VonZell,“reputedtobethehighestpaidradioannouncerintheUnitedStates.”Celebritiesincluded:Har-oldPerry,morefamiliarlyknownas“TheGreatGildersleeve”;BillThomp-son,betterknownas“Mr.Wimple”ontheFibberMcGeeandMollyradioshow;ErnieSmith,anationallyknownsportscaster;andAnnCurtisofthe“AlltheStars”aquacade. Thecityandcivicleaderswerecommendedforestablishingtheproj-ectandhailedthenewpoolas“fulfill-ingbotharecreationneedandamoralobligationtothecommunityitself.”Thepoolwastoutedasafittingtributetothememoryoflocalcitizen-soldierswhogavetheirlivesduringthewar. Sunday’sactivitiesbroughtthe“Crystalcade”aquacadeperformanceforthespecialpriceof$1.50.“Nolessthan40beauteouscreaturesoftheaquaticworldwillbeonhand,rather,inthewater,Sundaytopresentawidelyvariedprogramtoswimmingenthusi-asts.”Thetwohourshowwasacombi-nationofwaterballet,swimming,div-ingandracingexhibitions.BesidesAnn

Curtis,theshowfeaturedPatsyElsener,styledas“America’smostbeautifulandgracefuldiver,”andClydeDiaz,acom-edydiver. Bythelate1990’s,thestate-of-the-art,fifty-yearoldpoolwasshowingmanysignsofdisrepairandinneedofmajorupgrades.Then,in2008,thesixtyyear-oldpoolwasinjeopardyofbeingclosed.Atthattime,agroupwasformedcalledTheCitizensforMeasureH,seekinga$30,000,000bondthatwouldbuildanewpool,renovatethelibrary,andupgradeallofMartinez’sparkstoADAstandards.Onceagain,thecitizensofMartinezsteppeduptotheplateandpassedMeasureH.OnJuly21,2011,theNewAquaticCen-terhelditsgrandopeningceremonies.YoucanfindacompletelistingofthepoolprogramandclassesontheCityofMartinezwebsite.Anumberofpool“enthusiasts”haveformedasupportgroupforthepool,theRankinAquaticCenterPartners(RACP),andaFace-bookpage,MartinezAquaticCenteratRankinPark,thatwillkeepyouup-to-dateonpoolactivities.


Downtown Concord

*Admission $5 per person with canned food donation; $6 without donation.

Babies under 24 months & Seniors 65+ FREE!

KidFestConcord.com

(925) 671-3287

Produced by Bay Area Festivals, Inc.

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FREE Goody Bag to first 500 families

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Live Shark Experience

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artesadental

Dr. Amanda Backstrom DMD Graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine

For health, function & beauty

4041 Alhambra Ave. Suite 109 Martinez, CA 94553 Tel: 925-370-9900

www.artesadental.com

$72 exam, xrays and smile analysis*

Value up to $260 or insurance will pay. Offer includes initial exam, consultation and necessary xrays. New Patients Only. *Offer expires 60 days from receipt

FREE Teeth Whitening*

A $300 value (tray system) at an introductory offer with completed new patient exam, xrays and cleaning. Amanda Backstrom DMD, Inc.

$89 Dental Cleaning*

Value up to $129 or insurance will pay. Offer applies after a completed exam and xrays. Does not include periodontal cleaning. New Patients only. * for non-insured patients

Insurance accepted Easy Payment Plans Se Habla Español

WELCOME NEW PATIENTS! We provide quality dental care in a compassionate and relaxing environment. Call and make an appoint-

ment with your local family dentist today!

WORKING TO MAKE OUR COMMUNITY SAFE AND FAIR.

Fighting for the Best Possible Results in Every CaseAt The Venardi Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping those who have experienced serious and

catastrophic personal injuries, or mistreatment by an employer in the San Francisco Bay Area and throughout the West Coast. Above all, we are a litigation �rm. Though many cases can be

successfully resolved through negotiations and settlement, attorney Mark Venardi will not hesitate to bring your case to trial to get you the best results possible.

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The Venardi Law Firm, is guided by 3 basic principles: 1) treat others with respect, kindness, and dignity; 2) provide deserving clients with the highest quality legal represen-tation; 3) humanize the litigation process.


Pleasant Hill Senior Activities

Martinez Senior Activities818 Green St. (925) 370-8770

249 Gregory Lane (925) 798-8788

May 20 – BuncoPotluckat2pm;Buncoat3pm.Funandfriendlyatmospherewherenopriorknowledgeofthegameisnecessary!BuyyourticketattheSeniorCenteroffice(relocatedtotheLittleHouse).Tickets:$4,plusbringpotluckitemtofeedfourpeople.VFWBldg.:1919WendellLn.,PleasantHill.

May 30 – Classroom in the Community: “Maintain Your Brain”10-11am,free.Thefirst10peopletoregisterwillreceiveafreelunchfromourCCCafé,complimentsofSCANHealthPlan.Ifyouarenotoneofthefirst10tosignup,youmaystillreserveamealfor$2.Lunchisservedat11:30am.Pre-registrationisrequiredforlunch.CallSeniorCentertoregister:798-8788.St.Andrew’sChurch,1601MaryDr.,PleasantHill.

June 4, 14, 21 & 28 – Catch Yourself: Maintain Your Independence 12:30-1:30pm$10.Afour-partclassseriesdiscusses:riskfactorsforfalling,exercisesforbalanceandstrength,homeassessment,medicationmanagement,maintainingstrongbonesandhowtofallsafely.PresentedbyJohnMuir.Pre-Registrationisrequired:Call798-8788orvisittheSeniorCentertosignup!Classislimitedto20people.Aegis,1660OakParkBlvd.,PleasantHill.

June 12 – Backyard BBQ 12pm,$5member/$6general.EnjoyaclassicbackyardBBQonawonderfulJuneafternoonmunchingonahotdogwithallthefixingsandplayingBaggowithfriends.PurchaseyourticketsattheLittleHousebeforetheeventbeginningMonday,May7th.

May 1 - New Zumba Gold ClassTuesdays9-9:45am,$20(4classes)$6Drop-in.Latinandinternationalrhythmswitheasy-to-followdancemovesfor50minutesofnon-stopfun.DesignedfortheactiveolderadultorZumbabeginnerwithalowerintensitybutwithoutmissinganyofthecontagiousexcitement!Instructor:JoNash.Musthaveaminimumof10participants.Thisclasswillbeheldaroundthecornerfromtheseniorcenterat1111FerrySt.Callofficetosign-up:(925)370-8770.

May 10 - Presentation of Three Exciting Trips10:30am,Free.Callnow,spaceislimited.Cuba-June23-June30,2012;MediterraneanCruisewithSilverSea,VenicetoMonteCarlo-Aug.6-16,2012;Vietnam,CambodiaandtheRichesoftheMekongRiver-Jan.7-23,2013.

June 1 - Vagabond Players present award winning “Stepping Out”1:30-4pm,$10/mem-bers&$12/general.Takeagroupofsevenwomenandonemaninatapdancingclass,addpersonalproblemsandforsome,indifference,thenmixinablossomingclassinstructor.Theendresult:Asparklingcomedywitharousingtapfinaleandsomeheartfeltemotionalconnections.Alightbuffetwillbeservedaftertheshow.TicketsonsaleuntilMay28unlesswereachourcapacityprior.Ticketswillnotbeavailableatthedoor.

June 8 - AARP Refresher Course 11am-4pm(includesa30-minutebreak),$12/members&$14/general.Thisone-day4.5-hourcourseisforanyonewhohastakenthe8-hourAARPDriverSafetyTraininginthepastfouryears.Eithercoursequalifiesyouforamaturedriverdiscountwithyourautoinsurancecompany.(Checkwithyourinsuranceagentfordetails.)Classfillsquickly.Register:370-8770.Makecheckspayableto“AARP”andgivetotheinstructorthedayofclass.

Withthesummermonthsquicklyapproaching,thenewSeniorCenterandTeenCenteraregearingupforthenextphasesofconstruction.Thefuturerecrea-tionalhomesforseniorsandteensinourcommunityhavetakenshapeandarenowbeginningtoshowtheirpersonalities. TheTeenCenterhaditsfirstsetof“WackyMullions”(angledandtintedglasswindows)installedthelastweekofFebruary.ThesewindowsprovideafunandplayfulfacetotheTeenCenterwhile

providingplentyofnaturallightintothemainroomofthebuilding. AnotherfunfeatureoftheTeenCenter,completedattheendofMarch,wastheinstallationoftheglasspaneledgaragedoorlocatedbetweenthegameroomandthecourtyard.Widegatesontheoppositeendofthecourtyardallowthisspacetoopentothepooldeck,aper-fectsettingforbirthdayparties. TheSeniorCenterisn’twithoutitsownmilestones.Largeglu-lambeams

PH Rec & Park Bond Projects Update

Teen Center’s “Wacky Mullions”. Photo by Kendra Luke

The Senior Center’s new bocce courts in the redwood grove. Photo by Kendra Luke

werefit-cut,liftedandboltedintoplaceoverthedancestudio,diningroomandmulti-purposeroomthroughoutMarchandintoApril.Additionaltrussescon-tinuetobeinstalledbetweenthebeams,givingtheroomstheiroctagonalshape. ThesurroundingareasoftheSeniorCenterareseeingmanychanges,includ-ingfreshlypouredpathwaysandnewlyformedhorseshoepits.Whilethehorse-shoepitsarelocatedtowardthebackofthebuildingonthenortheastside,itis

mucheasiertospotthetwonewboccecourtslocatedintheredwoodgroveonthenortheastendoftheSeniorCenter. OnApril13,apre-bidconferencewasheldfortheconstructionoftheCommunityCenter.ThePleasantHillRecreationandParkDistrictwillawardthecontractonMay23,andbyearlyJunetheywillissueathecontractorwithanoticetoproceed.TheCommunityCenterisscheduledforcompletioninthefallof2013.

CarFitisaFREEprogramtoofferolderadultstheopportunitytocheckhowtheirpersonalcars“fit”them.Trainedprofessionalsleadolderdriversthrougha12-pointchecklistwiththeirvehicle,recommendcaradjustmentsandadaptationsandoffercommunity-specificresourcesandactivitiesthatcouldmaketheircars“fit”betterorenhancetheirsafety.WHEN:Saturday,May12,2012–9:00a.m.toNoon. Reservations required

for the 20-minute appointments–ContactLynnBoardman(925)671-5267WHERE:TheChurchofJesusChristofLatter-DaySaints,555BoydRoad,PleasantHill Sponsoring/participatingorgani-zationsfortheeventinclude:CityofPleasantHill,CommissiononAging,KaiserPermanente,TheChurchofJesusChristofLatter-DaySaints,NeighborsHealthSupply,AAA,AARPandAOTA.

How Does Your Car Fit?

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

COMMUNITY FOCUS 2012 COMMUNITY FOCUS 2012

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

GUIDE

For a free written estimate contact John at (925) 676-0792or email him at: [email protected]

JOHN

John McDonald, Owner • Lic.# 775382

• 23 Years Experience• Commercial & Residential

• Interior & Exterior Painting• Tape

• Texture• Acoustic Texture Removal

• Cabinets & Trim • Stain & Lacquer

• Wood Deck Refinishing

Leave the painting to me!THE PAINTERJohn the Painter

For twenty-three years, John the Painter has beautified homes throughout the East Bay. John’s main goals are excellence in the finished product and satisfied custom-ers; referrals and repeat clients attest to the quality of his work. John stays on site with his crew, and his high standards have earned him the respect of other contrac-tors who trust him and refer him to their clients.

One long-time customer offers the following testimonial:

“Our family has used John the Painter for dozens of different projects since we’ve owned our home in Martinez. John pays attention to the details in the prep work and doesn’t overlook those little things that affect the finished product. He takes the responsibility for filling holes, sanding and caulking because, if not done well, the final results won’t meet his high standards. Aside from applying color to walls, he has: stained a custom mantle and painted custom cabinets, perfectly repaired a water damaged ceiling, painted interior trim and doors, repainted the exterior and refinished a sad old wood deck, which still looks great four years later. Most recently, John removed the acoustic texture – better known as popcorn or cottage cheese - from our very high vaulted ceilings. The job was made more difficult because of the many angles in the ceiling that weren’t properly edged by the builder and seams that were poorly taped. John and his crew took the extra time in repair and prep work so that the finished ceilings look gorgeous. He is the first person we call when planning any remodel, maintenance or repair work, and we confidently refer him to neighbors and friends throughout our area.”

John loves to fish, but he would rather be working on your home! If you have an upcoming project, call John the Painter, John McDonald, owner. (925) 676-0792. See our ad in this section.


COMMUNITY FOCUS 2012 COMMUNITY FOCUS 2012

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

GUIDE

SAMUELSCONSTRUCTION

General Contractor Lic#652185

MEMBER

Kitchens • Bath RemodelingTile • Cultured Marble • Granite

Additions • Windows • DoorsConcrete • Foundations

Driveways • Patios • FencesALL PHASES OF CONSTRUCTION

PLANS [email protected] • 925.260.4448

313 Gloria Drive, Pleasant Hill

With years of remodels behind us we look forward to helping you make your house the home you've always wanted.

Wood Revivers

Patrick Pardee Owner

Fence & Deck Weatherproofing& Kitchen Cabinet Restoration

925-680-2535

Established in 1990Showrooms also in Santa Clara & Milbrae

LEADING EDGEPEST MANAGEMENT, INC

Lic. #PR6202

What’s buggin’ you?

Termite & Pest Control(925)689-2222 • (800)471-5555

www.LeadingEdgePM.com

The Grout SpecialistThe Grout Specialist Co. is your number one stop in the East Bay for grout and tile restoration, grout and tile repair, grout and tile sealing, and grout and tile clean-ing. We offer fast, friendly and 100% guaranteed quality service to both residential and commercial clients. With over twenty-five years of experience, we can restore your grout and tiles to their original beauty. Let us renew your grungy bathroom floor or kitchen counter with a thorough cleaning and new grout. Our team is an experienced, family owned and operated, reliable business.

Our tile and grout cleaning services are equipped to clean, seal and repair floors and tiles in commercial buildings, offices, condominiums, house apartment build-ings, and other commercial and residential areas. Our staff is highly trained to restore your grout and tiles to their original color and beauty. From discolored and cracked grouts to missing tiles in kitchens, counter tops, floors and patios, there is almost no job we cannot tackle. In addition, we source an advantage over most of our competition as a BBB Accredited Business with an A+ rating. BBB establishes and maintains a positive track record in the marketplace. It ensures that business-es adhere to the standards they advertise and sell. Our aim is to meet and exceed your expectations. Our proven system and competent workforce ensures that the job is done right the first time. View our testimonials on our website, www.grout-specialistco.com. Check out our special offers located on the right hand side of the home page screen. Be sure to quote the special offer at time of booking.

Leading Edge A big THANK YOU to all who have used our “greener” services. Intelligent custom-ers like you use Leading Edge Pest Management, Inc. because we are one of the few companies nationwide that qualified as a GreenPro Company. Leading Edge Pest Management, Inc. goes above and beyond any state or federal requirements for responsible pest control. GreenPro certifies the highest standards of environ-mentally conscious pest management. • We use non-chemical strategies • We investigate the source of the problem • We use pesticides only when necessary

The Leading Edge Pest Management, Inc. team focuses on quality and customer satisfaction. Our highest ratings have made us a Diamond Certified company. None of our technicians are paid by commission, so when Leading Edge Pest Management, Inc. steps foot on your property, you will get an honest, unbiased and professional opinion.

Pest Prevention Tip: Prune vines, shrubs and trees away from walls and roofs. Plants growing within a foot of a wall keep the area damp, leading to more pest problems. Additionally, branches and foliage touching a wall or roof allow pests to crawl into a building.

Payless PaintingPayless Painting is a family owned and operated, customer centered, full service painting company. At Payless Painting, we strive to establish relationships with our clients based on trust and open communication. We provide detailed written proposals, references, and a professional paint crew. Our clients understand we take pride in what we do and will stand behind our work 100%.

We won KRON 4 Best of the Bay Viewers Choice Award in 2011 for Best Painting Contractor in Northern California, are green certified through the Bay Area Green Business Program, and are active in our community. We are a FIVE STAR rated company on Yelp.com and invite you to look at our customer reviews. We special-ize in both interior and exterior residential and commercial repaints. Please visit our website at www.PaylessPainting.com to learn more or call our office at (925) 935-1176 to schedule a free estimate.

Wood ReviversWood Revivers provides complete refinishing services and specializes in wood preservation and repair. We restore and treat decks, fences and even kitchen cabinets.

Our two-step method includes:• Gentle but thorough cleaning and preparation • Careful application of our sealer/finish for outstanding appearance and protection

Since 1990, the mission of Wood Revivers owner Patrick Pardee has been to pro-vide the highest quality workmanship and customer service. He believes in doing business the old-fashioned way: treating customers with respect, consistently de-livering superior results, and offering services at a fair price. Patrick brings a wealth of experience to each customer and the final result speaks for itself.

If you have a deck, fence or kitchen cabinets that need refinishing, leave the hard work of cleaning, sanding and sealing to Wood Revivers. Many local references are available! Call for a free estimate at (925)680-2535.

COMMUNITY FOCUS 2012


NOW OPEN!

Change "Open House" to "Now Open"Change "Friday, March 11" to Monday-Friday 7:30 - 5:00Add phone number (925) 609-6420Add somewhere: "Serving Builders, Architects & Designers with top quality custom doors, windows and millwork."

Monday - Friday 7:30 - 5:00925.609.64205399 Pacheco Blvd. Pacheco CA 94553

Serving Builders, Architects, Designers & Homeowners with top quality custom doors, windows and millwork.

Hire My Husband

925-969-0133

Contractor Lic. # 943231www.HireMyHusband.com

• Interior Painting

• Quality Home Repair Projects

• Handyman Services

All kinds of Interior and Exterior handyman projects.

Hire My HusbandGet Your Saturdays Back!

With the weather slowly warming, spring fever will soon take hold. We know you would rather enjoy your weekends getting out and about than slogging away at the Honey Do List compiled during the week. Let Hire My Husband take care of that list so you can get your Saturdays back.

Now is the time to go outside and get your yard or garden ready for enjoyment. Hire My Husband can make your outside an inviting and welcoming space to share with family and friends. The “Husbands” can help you repair that sagging gate, rebuild that old section of fence, or build a raised garden bed. Hire My Husband can power wash your winter stressed deck and apply a new coat of sealer. We can repair dry rotted ex-terior trim, replace your front door for a new look, and build a shady pergola. Hire My Husband can assemble that garden shed you got last fall on sale at Home Depot. Let your car sleep well at night by letting us organize your garage to maximize space so you can park it inside again, out of the sun’s harmful rays. Let us spruce up your indoor walls with fresh paint colors to brighten up your space so you can hang those new curtains from the Pottery Barn catalog.

Check out our website at www.hiremyhusband.com to see our list of services, a photo gallery of our work and comments from our happy clients. Send us a message or give us a call at 925-969-0133 for a free estimate on how to satisfy that next item on your Honey Do List

Big Air Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.Attention: Important Information! “Beat the Heat”

Air Conditioning System Maintenance: Your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air con-ditioning) system is probably the most expensive system in your home. With the cost of hardware and proper installation of components, your cooling and heating system is a major investment in comfort. Why wouldn’t you spend a little each year to keep it running properly? Maintain your HVAC system

You don’t think twice about getting the oil in your car changed every 3,000 miles, but unlike your vehicle, your home actually increases in value. The better shape it’s in, the more it’s worth, and the more it’s worth to regularly maintain your HVAC system.

Proper maintenance of your air conditioning unit will not only prolong its life and save you unwanted repairs, but make it run as efficiently as possible and save money on electric bills. Power surges, temperature swings, motor vibrations, dirt and even bugs can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner, costing you big money. At Big Air Heating & Air Conditioning, our technicians will perform a 21 point “Precision Tune-up and Professional Cleaning” on your furnace for only $59.99. Instead of a simple check-up, these 21 procedures take nearly one and a half hours to complete, making sure that your air conditioner is running at peak efficiency all summer long.

Protect your HVAC investment with regular system maintenance. Call now and get your AC Tune up for only $59.99. As a bonus, we will include a free duct inspection at no extra cost. Offer expires 6-30-12. See our print ad below or visit www.BigAir-Mechanical.com.



Martinezwalkerswillgoaroundtheclockinthebattleagainstcancerduringthe2012RelayForLifeMartinez.Membersofthecommunitywillgatherforthistwenty-fourhourcelebrationatLasJuntasElementarySchoolfrom10am,Saturday,July28until10am,Sunday,July29;cancerdoesn’tsleep,andneitherwillwe! RelayForLifeisauniquefundraisingeventthatallowsparticipantsfromallwalksoflifetojointogethertocelebratethelivesofthosewhohavefacedcancer,rememberlovedoneslostandfightbackagainstthediseasethattakestoomuch. Anyoneeverdiagnosedwithcancerisinvitedtoparticipateinthesurvivorbreakfastandopeninglap.Thiscelebratorylapsetsthestagefora

fun-filleddayofcamaraderie,games,dancing,livemusic,themelapsandwalkingforagreatcause. Atdark,theRememberCeremonyisheldtorememberthosewhohavelostthebattleagainstcancer.Luminariabags,createdinmemoryandinhonorofthosetouchedbycancer,aresetalongthetracktolightourpaththroughoutthedarkesthoursofnight.Themorninglightbringsarenewedfeelingofhopeaswepledgetofightbackagainstcancerallyearlong. Grabyourfriends&familyandrelayforsomeoneinyourlife.Itwillbeatwenty-fourhoursyouwon’tsoonforget! Formoreinformationortobecomeinvolved,contactBeckyBronikowski,EventChair,atrflmtz.becky@gmail.comor925-324-5944orvisitwww.relayforlife.org/martinezca.

WhenJuliannaRuotoloofPleasantHillturnedthirteenrecently,shedidwhatmanyfolkswouldconsideramazingfora‘tweenbecomingateen. Insteadofgifts,sheaskedherfriendsfordonationstotheAmericanCancerSociety(ACS)inhonorofherauntwhoisabreastcancersurvivor,andinmemoryofhercousin,grandfather,andotherrelativesandfriendswhodiedfromcancer.HerclassmatesgaveJulianna$473forthecause.Herparents,KennethandGina,matchedthesum,makingitthefirstlargecontributiontothe2012ACSRelayForLifeinPleasantHill.Julianna,an8thgraderatChristtheKing,andherfriendsareattunedtohelpingothers.Lastschoolyear,theyorganizedabakesaletoraiseover$400forACS. Julianna,herparentsandherfriendshaveonceagainformedthe“TeenWork”teamtoparticipateinthethirdannualPleasantHillRelayForLife.TodonatetoACSonbehalfofJuliannaorherteam,gotowww.RelayforLife.org/PleasantHillCA. Relay For Life of Pleasant HillWhat:AfundraiserfortheAmericanCancerSociety.When:9amSaturday,May19to9am

Sunday,May20.Where: PleasantHillMiddleSchool,OneSantaBarbaraRoad,PleasantHill.Who: Peopleofallagesandabilities.mayparticipate.Cancersurvivorsaregivenspecialhonor.How:Teamsraisemoneyinadvanceandrelayteammemberstaketurnswalkingthetrack.Why: Theeventextendsover24hoursbecausecancerneversleepsandneitherdoesthefightagainstcancer.Details:www.RelayforLife.org/[email protected];925-944-4898.

Martinez Relay for Life

A Way to Give Back The AAUW Needs YouBy Marti Martin

Areyouinterestedinpromotingedu-cationandequityforwomenandgirls?ThePleasantHill-MartinezbranchofAAUW(AmericanAssociationofUniver-sityWomen)invitespeoplewithanAA,BAorhigherdegreetojoinus.Ourmis-sionistopromoteequityforallwomenandgirlsthroughadvocacy,education,philanthropy,andresearch.Foundedin1881,AAUWisadiverseandactivena-tionalorganization.Locally,theAAUWraisesmoneytoprovidewomenwithfel-lowships,careerdevelopment,andcollegescholarships.FundsalsosendatleastthreePleasantHillorMartinezmiddleschoolgirlstotheTechTrekSummerMath&Scienceprogrameachyear.TechTreken-couragesseventh-gradegirlstoinvestigatefuturecareersinmathorsciencefields.OurmembersparticipateintheSAM(StudentArt&Music)programatFairOaksElementarySchoolinPleasantHill.

Wemeetseveraltimesayearforin-terestingprogramsandspeakersanden-gageinsocialevents,suchasawinterholidayorsummerparty,withspousesorsignificantothers.Ourfund-raisingac-tivitiesfeaturefunactivitieslikeawine-tastingdinner,alocalplay,oraneveningwithmysterywriters.Onapersonallevel,ourbranchhasmanysub-sectionssuchasbookdiscussiongroups,genealogy,bridge,handcrafts,diningout,andothers. Agatheringfornewandpoten-tialmemberswillbeheldat7:00p.m.onThursday,May24atMartiMartin’shomeinMartinezforlightrefreshmentsandinformation.Meetafewofourmembersandfindoutifourorganizationisagoodfitforyou.Fortheaddressandmorein-formation,contactMartiMartinat(925-229-3574)orrichmar65@hotmail.com.Checkoutourwebsiteatwww.aauw-ph.org.Wehopetohearfromyou!

Join the Teen Center Challenge!

The HEDCO Foundation has awarded Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District a challenge grant for the Capital Campaign. This Challenge is designed speci�cally to equip the NEW Pleasant Hill Teen

Center with furniture, �xtures and equipment.

For every gift made, HEDCO will match it dollar for dollar! (Up to $64,170)Naming Opportunities Still Available

Courtyard $50,000 ~ Lounge $15,000 ~ Game Room $10,000 ~ Lobby $10,000Recognition: Each $500+ contributor will be recognized with their name on the Teen Center

Donor Wall. Naming Opportunities will also be recognized with a room plate. With your generous gift, the New Teen Center will open this Fall, fully equipped and ready to serve our Teens.

Call today to discuss gift opportunities. Katrina Hunn, Teen Center Supervisor(925) 682-0896 x12 • [email protected]

Senior Center Business ChallengeSenior Center Business ChallengeTom and Ruby MacDonald, founding owners of Carlton Senior Living Communities,The Chateaus of Contra Costa County, have o�ered Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park

District a two-for-one challenge grant for its capital campaign.MacDonalds have issued the following challenge to the business community:• Two-for-One: For every $1,000 raised within the local business community,

the MacDonalds will donate $2,000 to the campaign, up to a maximum of $50,000.• Recognition: Each contributing business will be recognized on a plaque provided by the

MacDonalds to be permanently displayed in the NEW Pleasant Hill Senior Center.This “Business Two-for-One Challenge” is designed specifically to equip the NEW Pleasant Hill

Senior Center with furniture, fixtures & equipment.

Kendra Luke, Senior Center SupervisorCall her today to discuss gift opportunities with you.(925) 798.8788 ext 12 or [email protected].

Julianna Ruotolo, Age 13


Falcon Spikers

www.lesschwabmartinez.comVISIT US AT:

5/31/12

Sharks Take Second

Back row, L-R: Coach Joe Blair, Donovan Blair, Ryan Mates, Conner Erickson, Chisom Nwakor, Antho-ny Haefke, Alex Ewing, Kyle Magtibay, Coach Mike Olvera, and Coach Chris Doe. Front Row: Chris Keeler, Andrew Olvera, Roarke Hadfield, Jared Rayl, Justin Miller, Colby Hall, and Cameron Tayeb-Naraghi. Submitted by Jennifer Olvera

In April, the Pleasant Hill Martinez Soccer Association U14 boys’ team took second place at the Soccerfest tournament in Pleasant Hill, defeating Pacifica in penalty kicks to play in the championship game. Great job boys!

HOME TEAM

Junior Nelson Fisher of the College Park boys’ volleyball team had quite a day as the Falcons defeated visiting San Ramon Valley. Fisher had 26 assists and 3 kills as CP prevailed 25-19, 26-24, 14-25, 18-25, 15-12 on March 13. Devin Humm leads the team in blocks with 30. Bo Hunter leads with 84 kills. Freshman Noah Fisher leads with 44 digs. Nelson Fisher was solid again as he had 13 assists, 9 kills and 2 aces to help the Falcons beat Clayton Valley in early-April. Overall, the Falcons are 12-3 and sport a perfect 7-0 record in DVAL play. The team is currently ranked 6th in NCS Division 1.

Season TicketBy Chuck Nan

Anatasia Lobsinger AnastasiaLobsinger,asophomorewrestleratAlhambra,hasemergedtobeoneofthebestfemalesinthestate.Compet-inginthe156-pounddivision,Lobsingerearnedthird-placeattherecentCIFgirlswrestlingtournament.Sportingaseasonrecordof34-3,thisfinishwasthetopperformancebyaContraCostaCountywrestlerintheevent. Afterfinishingwithstate,AnastasiaturnedhereyestotheUSAWrestlingGirlsFolkstyleNationals.Inthe2011event,sheplacedseventhinthejuniordivision.Thisyear,shewrestledgallantlyandplacedthird.Katerina Lobsinger Wrestlingisinthegenes.KaterinaLobsinger,Anatasia’ssister,alsofaredquitewell.Thiswasherfirstshowingatanationaleventasshewascomingoffafirst-placefinishattheUSAWCaliforniaStateCham-pionshipmeetinFresnoinmid-March.KaterinaparticipatedintheCadetdivisionat132-pounds.Shewascrownedchampionafteraruggedfinalmatch,whichwentwellintotripleovertime. BothgirlsreceivedAll-Americanstatusandlooktogofurther.TheirnextgoalistomaketheJuniorWorldTeamandNationalTeam,whichwillcompeteattheJuniorWorldsinFargo,NorthDakotalaterthissummer.TheywillalsocompeteattheBodyBarNationalTournamentinmid-MayinOrlando,Florida.Bulldogs Baseball Alhambra’spitchingstaffthrewfifteenstraightscorelessinningsaftertheir2-0winagainstElCerritoinmid-March.TheBulldogswere7-1atthatpoint,winning

seven-in-a-rowafterdroppingtheiropener.Duringthewinstreak,theBulldogsallowedjustsixruns,whilescoring60forthem-selves. JuniorJackHigginshasemergedasatop-notchstartingpitcher.IntheElCerritogame,HigginsfannedtenGauchoswhilethrowingaone-hitter.AnthonyTaliaferroandLucasCasillaseachcollectedtwohitsforAlhambra. JordanHillpitchedalleightinningsasthehostBulldogsbeatLasLomas1-0inanextra-inninggameonMarch29.Itwasthefirstleaguewinof2012fortheDogsafterdroppingthefirstthree.Hillscatteredeighthitsandstruckoutsixinthewin. ThewinoverElCerritowasnottheonlyearly-seasonhighlightfortheBulldogs.OnFebruary28,threepitcherscombinedtothrowano-hitteragainstvisitingDeAnza.SeniorStevieRossi,sophomoreJonPachaandfreshmanZachKeeverallsharedthehonors.JuniorConnorMcCauleywasthecatcher.Alhambrawon19-1whilenotch-ing16hits.Taliaferro,CasillasandRossiallgarneredthreehitsinthecontest.Diamond Lady Falcons SeniorGinaDeLuca,co-captainoftheCollegeParksoftballteam,startedherseason4-for-7(.571)attheplateintheteam’sfirsttwogames.DeLucaalsoscoredthreerunsandnotchedfiveRBIs.TheLadyFalconswon9-4againstDeerValleyand15-5overFairfield.ThewinagainstFairfieldsawDeLucaclearthefencewithherfirsthomerun.Fortheseason,KierraWillisleadstheteaminbattingaveragewitha.607mark.DeLucaleadstheteamwith11RBIs,twohomerunandtwotriples.

Praise Can Throw PraiseAdesidaoftheAlhambragirls’trackandfieldteamnotchedawinningdiscusthrowattheStanfordInvitationalonApril7.Adesidathrewfor128feet,9inches.

Thatwasmorethansixfeetbetterthanthenextbesttoss!


DeMers DominatesLady Bulldogs

CP Golf Takes DVAL

www.todgomes.comSports Action Photographer

925-787-1063

Tired of missing that perfect shot?PHBA Offical Photographer Tod Gomes will make sure you never miss the perfect shot.

Sign up for only $25 and he will focus only on your child athlete during their game. Don’t miss thisonce in a lifetime opportunity.

HOME TEAM

Not to be outdone by the boys, the Lady Bulldogs fired a complete blanking at Acalanes. Sopho-more pitcher Erin Enke pitched a complete game no-hitter as Alhambra prevailed 10-0. Enke struck-out seven and collected two base hits herself. The only offense needed was a first inning home run by Kylie Perez, who also had two hits and teammate Jazzana McIntosh, who had two RBIs. Alhambra raised its record to 2-0 after a 21-0 opening win at Miramonte. The next game against Las Lomas, Kylie Perez deposited the first pitch she saw over the fence, over the shrubs, over the retaining wall, into the school quad area. Nicole Curry also blasted two home runs as the Lady Dogs bested Campolindo 7-0. Through their first four games, Alhambra pitching al-lowed zero runs and just eight base hits. The competition got tougher in the prestigious Livermore Stampede. The Lady Dogs prevailed in all three of their pool play games to get into the championship bracket. There they met two of the strongest teams in the Bay Area. Alhambra came out on the short-end of consecutive decisions to Livermore and Archbishop Mitty.

FreshmanJoeDeMersblastedthefirsthomerunofhishighschoolcareeronMarch21atDeerValley.Unfortunate-ly,thatwasalltheoffensefortheFalcons.CPfinishedtheinitialnon-leagueportionoftheschedulewitha3-2record.Twodayslater,DeMerstooktothemoundandpitchedbrilliantlyina4-1winatCardinalNewman.Itwashisthirdwin(3-0).De-Mersallowedthreehitsoversixinnings,walkingjustoneandfanning10.HekepthisERAperfectat0.00(14innings). DeMersintroducedhimselftothe

ClaytonValleyrivalrybythrowingacom-pletegamethree-hitshutoutwitheightstrikeouts.TheFalconsdidnotallowasinglerunineachofthosethreegames.CPscoreditsfirsttworunsonsuicidesqueezebuntsfromJimmyTorresinthesecondandAnthonyBaletointhesixth.TheycappedthescoringintheseventhonLukeVanHolten’stwooutsingle.An-thonyFortneypinchranandstolesecond,andthenscoredonaClaytonerroronaJefferyMitchellgroundball.DeMerskepthisrecordstellarat4-0.

Joe DeMers #24 running to first after singling in senior, and four year varsity player Athan Koutsoubinas #11 in the top of the first inning at Northgate.

The Falcon golf team finished in first place at the challenging Aiello Golf Invitational Tournament in Discovery Bay. Strong play by three seniors, Carlos Mena (75) Ramon Alejo (76) Austin Collier (77), sophomore Dimitri Salido (77) and Junior Andy Tripp (88) was the winning combination! The College Park golf team finished the season undefeated in DVAL. Coach Creamer says, “It was a true team effort to play at this level and each player should be proud of their development and effort.”


2nd Annual College Park Baseball Alumni Day!!

When: Saturday May 19th, 2012 Where: College Park Baseball Field

What: A full day of baseball fun!

8:30 AM to 11:00 AM – College Park alumni vs. current JV team Cost to play is $40 per player and includes a CP baseball shirt plus lunch. Plan to arrive by 8:00 to get ready to play. This will be a real baseball game, so start

getting your arm ready! Please register ahead of time at [email protected].

11:00 AM to 1:00 PM – Home Run Derby Come out and take some swings to see how far you can hit ‘em. Prizes will be awarded in a variety of categories. No registration required, just show up and

swing hard. 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM – Select College Park Alumni vs. current Varsity

A select group of recent graduates will take on the current Varsity team in what is sure to be a very competitive and entertaining game.

Please make plans to come out and have some fun and support College Park Baseball. In addition to the events

listed above, there will be food and CP merchandise for sale along with other fun activities.

Have questions or want to register to play? Contact Brodie Nissen at

[email protected] or 925-788-9008.

COME JOIN US THIS SUMMER!

360 Ferry St, Martinez, CA. [email protected] • 925-465-4498

www.norcalcourts.com

COME JOIN US THIS SUMMER!

SIGN UP NOW!• Summer Community Camps (Mon-Fri)• Preschool Sport Camp 9am-12 pm• Youth Sport Camp 12-3 pm• Adult Basketball Leagues Friday and Sunday, 6-9 pm• Gym Rentals available. Call Now.

SPECIAL EVENTS• Cagers Basketball Skills and Development Clinics in June• Big Man/Women Basketball Camps in June and July• Bay Area Blast Volleyball Clinics June 19-21, 26-28

BASKETBALL • VOLLEYBALL • FUTSALBASKETBALL • VOLLEYBALL • FUTSAL













LesSchwabTiresandEdwardJonesInvestments,bothofMartinez,arespon-soringagolftournamentatPineMead-owsGolfCoursetobenefittheMarti-nezEducationFoundation(MEF)andAlhambraHighSchoolBulldogsSportsBoosters.ThisfirstannualeventwilltakeplaceonMonday,May12,at1:00pm.$60.00pergolferor$200.00forafour-

some.$25.00tri-tipdinner.PleasemakecheckpayabletoMEFandmailto649MainStreet,No.125,Martinez,94553.Besuretoincludeyourname,phonenum-berandnamesofparticipants.Deadlineforthe$60.00entryfeeisApril30($75.00after).Eventisopentoallgolfersatallskilllevelsonthelinks.Formoreinfor-mation,call(925)335-5111.

Bay Area KidFest Brings 3 Days of Low-Cost Family Fun to Downtown Concord, Memo-rial Day Weekend. Afavoriteannualfamilyinstitution,KidFest,returnstodowntownConcordonMemorialDayWeekendforits23rdyear.Withmoreattractionsthaneverforkids,tweens,andparents,thiseventbringsthreedaysoffamilyfunSat.,Sun.andMon.,May26-28from10amto6pmdaily.KidFestbenefitslocal,non-profiteducational,healthandyouthsports’organizations. NewthisyearistheLiveSharkEn-counterthatletseveryonegetupclosetothesefascinatingcreatures,plustheenter-tainingGreatWhiteSharkMuseum.ReturningfavoritesaretheClaytonBikesBMXStuntTeamandtheRadioDisneyCrewser.SpongeBobSquarePantsandoth-erfamoussuperheroeswillbeonhandtogreetthekids.Alltheregularentertainment-games,activities,andartsandcraftsthathavebeenKidFeststaplesformorethantwodecades-arefreetoattendees.Themainstagewillfeaturenon-stopentertainmentwithspecialpresentationsbyBalletFolklori-

coandFunkmode.Ridesandattractionsin-cludethenew“BobbleLagoon,”pettingzoo,andponyrides.PatronswillenjoydeliciouscarnivalmidwaytreatsattheFoodCourt. Forthe17thyear,KidFestispartneringwiththeFoodBankofContraCostaandSolano.Since2002,50,000poundsoffoodhavebeengiventotheneedybyKidFestat-tendees. Tickets: Admissionis$5perpersonwiththedonationofacannedgoodfortheFoodBankofContraCosta&Solanoor$6withoutacandonation.Babiesunder24monthsandseniors65andolderareFREE.Thelowticketpriceincludesalltheenter-tainmentstages,shows,bouncesandslidesandotherkidactivities.Food,ridesandalimitednumberofboothschargeanaddi-tionalfeeinsidetheKidFestgrounds. Parking:On-siteparkingeachdaythroughtheGrantSt.entranceatBaconSt.is$5.Freeon-streetparkingorthecityparkinggarageonSalvioStreet(atGrant)areavailable. More information, check out www.Kid-FestConcord.com or (925) 671-3287.

Golf Tourney FundraiserBay Area KidFest

CP Baseball Alumni Day













Pictured is the 2011 College Park Alumni team who took on the JV team at last year’s College Park Alumni Day.


Tables Turned on In the MixBy Jaki Jones

Cover2CoverisPleasantHill’sunofficial“houseband.”Themusic,mostlyrock,isirresistibleand“covers”decadesoftop100hits.PaulCotruvo,leadguitarist/vocalsfortheband,alsowriteshis“IntheMix”columnfortheCommunityFocus.Eachmonth,hiscolumnhighlightsthelocalmusicsceneandrecommendsnotableshowsandeventsworthcatching.TheFocusthoughtitwouldbefuntomixitupwithPaulandplacehimintheintervieweeseatthismonth. AsalocalboyraisedinLafayette,PaulwasinfluencedbytheBritishInvasionandtheSanFranciscoSoundatanearlyage.Heisaself-taughtmusicianwhosepassionisfolkandrockandroll.Paul’smusicalcareerbeganwithplayingoriginalmusic,andintheearly80’s,herecordedtwosongswithhisbrotherinLosAngeleswiththehopesofbeingdiscoveredinaverytoughbusiness.Theexperienceinarecordingstudioledtomeetingtalentedstudiomusicianswhosuggestedhewouldlearnalotbyplayingotherpeople’smusic;hefoundthistobenotonlytruebutquitegratifying.Today,PaulandCover2Coverentertainuswiththeirconcertssuchastherecent“ComeTogether”concertfortheTeenCenterandtheupcomingBluesFestivalandSunsetbytheLakeseries.Paul’scommitmenttomusiciscertainandhispassiontopromotethelive,localmusicsceneisunwavering.CF: How long has Cover2Cover been together and why do you think the band has such a wide appeal?PC:Eightyears.Itrulybelieveit’sthechemistrybetweenallthemusiciansand,morespecifically,betweenToni(Bryant),theleadsinger,andmyself.Wearealsoallverycommunityorientedanddoalotofcharitywork.CF: What’s your favorite venue to play?PC:ForCover2Coverit’stheSunset

bytheLakeSummerConcerts.Formepersonally,Ilikeasmall,intimate,packedhouse—aplacelikeDallimonti’s.Ilovethat.CF: What Cover2Cover song or songs do you feel generates the most excitement?PC: Latelyit’sbeen“Don’tStopBelievin’”byJourneyand“Shout”byTheIsleyBrothers.CF: What is your wife Sheila’s roll in the band? PC:Sheisthesecretbehindtheband.She’stheunofficialmanager/denmother/fan.Shereallydoesalotfortheband.CF: What do you feel has been your greatest accomplishment musically?PC:I’dsimplysaybeingfifty-fiveyearsoldandstillplaying!IgettodowhatIlove.CF: What’s been a highlight of your musical career so far?PC:Aboutthreeyearsago,IgottobeinvolvedwithaprojectwithsingerTariLaCourt,andwerecordedatFantasyStudiosinBerkeley.Sheaskedmetobe

May 3: Chris Cain Band, Armandos, 707 Marina Vista Martinez, 8:00pmMay 5: 2nd Annual Benefit Concert for Theatre Arts Lafayette Community-Featuring members of The Waybacks, Petty Theft, The Sun Kings and Dream PosseTown Hall Theatre, Lafayette, 7:00pmMay 19: Sin Silver, Back Forty, 100 Coggins Drive Pleasant Hill, 6:00pmMay 26: Lumberyard, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd. Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm

PAUL’S PICKS FOR MAY:

apartofherproject,andIgottorecordwithsomeoutstandingmusicians.Weonlyhadtwelvehourstorecordtwelvesongsanditcameoutamazing.CF: What’s the story behind your latest musical venture, Cover Story?PC:WhenIwasfifteenyearsold,Istartedoutdoingsolowork,soit’skindoflikegoingfullcircle.ToniBryant(Cover2Covervocalist)andIhavefriendsthatplaysoloorduo,andToniandIgotitinourheadstotrysomethinglikethat.Weharmonizeandworkreallywelltogether,soitseemedlikethenaturalthingtodoandit’stakenoff.Weplayalotofstuffthatwedon’tgetachancetoplaywithCover2Cover—TonidoesgreatMelissaEtheridgesongsandwedo

someSugarland.IgettodomorefolksymaterialthatIlovesuchasREM.Wedoalotmorealternativemusic.CF: Tell me about Team Bob and Relay for Life.PC:May19istheRelayforLifeeventinPleasantHill,andBobO’GradywasthefirstdrummerforCover2Cover.Sincehepassedawayfromcoloncancer,wedecidedthiswastherightthingdo,soCover2CoverformedTeamBobandhisdaughterAlihasTeamO’Grady,sotherewillbetwoteamsrepresentingBob.Cover2Coverwillplayaboutanhourduringtheevent.Anyonewhodonates,say$20,onthespotwillgettosingasongwithus.Wewillhaveacontestaswell—thepersonwhodonatesthemostmoneytoteamBobwillgettosingasongwithusattheSunsetbytheLakeconcertinAugust.CF: What would be your advice for a young, aspiring musician?PC:Youjusthavetoplayandmeetpeople.Bepersistentandplay,whetherit’sinyourbedroomoratalocaldive,youjusthavetoplay.ThatwastheexperienceIlearnedinL.A.Themusiciansleftoursessiontoplayloungyhotelgigs—youjustgrowfromit.Don’tbenarrow-minded;beopentoallmusic.CF: If you could be a guest player in any band currently playing, who would it be?PC:TomPettyandtheHeartbreakers!CF: I couldn’t resist this final question: If you could be any song, what would it be?PC:Probably“WithA LittleHelpFromMyFriends”byThe Beatles.Icouldn’tdoitwithoutallmyfriends.


Dallimonti’s Restaurant

1932 Oak Park Boulevard, Pleasant Hill. 925-944-5224

www.dallimontis.com

• A Family Tradition Since 1982 • Open for Lunch & Dinner• Reservations & Take Out Available • Small Banquets Welcome

• Full Bar & Wine List • A Touch of North Beach in your Neighborhood

LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY • COMING IN MAYFRIDAY KARAOKE NIGHT • GRAB THE MIC AND ROCK OUT

Come for the food stay for the music!

5/5 The Business • 5/12 The Solmates5/19 The Famous Three-O • 5/26 Lumberyard

925.335.9915601 Main Street, Martinez

www.smokeyds.com

Hours:Mon-Thur 11-8PMFri & Sat 11-9PM

FUNDRAISING! TWO OPTIONS AVAILABLECALL US FOR MORE INFORMATION

Slow Cooked, Smoked Meats and MoreGREAT

Open Sundays DuringMain Street Events Only

WHO WANTS RIBS?

FAMILY MEAL DEAL

You can’t find a better deal than our Tuesday Ribs at Smokey D's. Enjoy our pork ribs for only $1.50

each after 4pm. Dine in only please.

The answer to “What’s for dinner tonight?” Choice of 3 smoked meats, 2 large scratch sides, large salad with homemade dressings, and 5 homemade corn muffins with honey butter for only $39.99

plus tax. Feeds 4-5 people. Valid everyday. Take out only.

A LOCALFAVORITE!

RESTAURANTget your restaurant in

FOCUSfor more information please contact us atfor more information please contact us at

GUIDE 925.335.NEWS (6397)[email protected]

Join our new Birthday Club and receive a $30 Birthday Certificate to spend at Kobe Japan Restaurant during the month of your birthday. You will also receive special offers and information

about the latest happenings in our monthly newsletter.

Please go to our website www.KobeJapanRestaurant.com , and then click Sign-Up for Our Birthday Club/Special Offers

1918 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, California 94523Phone: (925) 705-7065/7066 Fax: (925)705-7067

$30 Birthday CertificateVoted Best Japanese Restaurant by Best of the Bay TV Viewers in 2010


Faces of Skin CancerBy Matthew Sirott, MD

MayisMelanomaAware-nessMonthandthefirsttimetheeducationalprogram,“ManyFacesofSkinCancer,”willbeoffered. MelanomaranksastheseventhleadingtypeofcancerintheUnitedStates.ThelifetimeriskforbeingdiagnosedwithmelanomaintheUnitedStatesis1.94%formalesand1.30%forfemales;thelifetimeriskfordeathfrommelanomais0.35%formalesand0.20%forfemales. Therearemanyriskfactorsforde-velopingmelanoma,bothenvironmentalandgenetic.Thefactoryoucanbestcontroltoreduceyourriskofmelanomaisexposuretoultraviolet(UV)radiationfromthesun.Someexpertsbelievethatsixty-fivepercentormoreofmelanomaiscausedbyexposuretothesun,espe-ciallyduringchildhood.Followingisalistofpreventiontips. Detectionofmelanomaatearlystag-esisessentialandlifesaving.TheABCDEofmelanomarecognitionare:asymme-try,borderirregularities,colorvariation,diametergreaterthan6mmandevolv-ingorchanginglesions.Ifyouhaveasuspiciouslesion,youshouldtalktoyourprimarycarephysicianordermatologistaboutbiopsyingthelesion. Propersurgicalmanagementisessentialforobtainingthediagnosisand

stageofmelanoma.Lymphnodebiopsyisdoneinpa-tientsathighriskforlymphnodemetastasis.Radiationcanbeusedforpatientswithsignificantriskoflocalrecurrence.Interferonisusedinpatientswithhigh

riskresectedmelanoma.Inpatientswithmetastaticmelanoma,biologictherapysuchashighdoseinterleukin-2,oraltemodar,biochemotherapyandcombi-nationandsingleagentchemotherapyallhavebeenused.Atherapyformetastaticmelanomatreatment,ipilimumab(Ippy)recentlyreceivedFDAapproval.Itisoneofthefirstantibody-basedtherapiesthatusesthebody’simmunedefensestodestroycancercells.Ippywasshowntoofferasurvivalbenefitformetastaticmelanoma,whichisoftenafataldisease. The“ManyFacesofSkinCancer”isonMay23from6-8pmattheWal-nutCreekLibrary.ThisfreeeventissponsoredbytheCaliforniaSkinandMelanomaCenter–anewcomprehen-siveskincancerprogramintheEastBaythatoffersamulti-disciplinarymedicalexpertapproachtothetreatmentofallforformsofskincancer.Toregistercall:925-677-5041 Dr.SirottisaMedicalOncologistandHematologistwithDiabloValleyOncology.925-677-5041.

1029 Arnold Dr. Suite 9 Martinez, CA 94553

NEW PATIENTSPECIALS!

Most insurances accepted.

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Soyouwanttobemoreactive?Maybeimproveyourposture,re-ducebackpain,orraiseyourathleticperformancetoanewlevel?Tohelpyoureachyourgoalssafelyandeffectively,youshouldfirststabilizeyourspinebystrengtheningyour“core.” Thesedayseveryoneisthrowingaroundtheterm“thecore,”butwhatisit?Thecoreisthecenterofpower,stabil-ityandbalanceinourbodies,andit’snotwhereyoumaythinkitis.Ialwaysasknewclientswheretheythinkthecoreisandtheyoftenpointtotheirupperab-dominals,thepretty“sixpack”musclesknownastherectusabdominis.Thosemusclesmaybegorgeous,buttheydonotstabilizethespine.Thisiswhyitisnotuncommontohavebeautifulbathingsuitorwashboardabsandstillhaveasoreback. Thecoreisactuallymadeupof

thediaphragmonthetop(ourpower-fulbreathingmusclelocatedrightbelowthelungs),thepelvicflooronthebottom(themusclesthatsupporttheinternalor-gans),thetransverseabdominis(thedeep,corset-likeabdominalmusclethatcinch-esthewaistwhenitisengaged),andthemultifidi(thetinyfinger-likemusclesthatstabilizetheindividualvertebraeofthespine).Thesefourmusclegroupsarethecenter(orcore)ofstabilityforourspineandmustworktogetherinpartnershiptokeepthespinesupported,healthyandhappy.Thinkofyourcoreasasodacan-ifallsidesarestrong,itisdifficulttocrush.But,putonesmalldentinthecan,anditlosesitsoverallstrengthandintegrity. Whateveryourgoals,tobesafeandsuccessful,startwiththecorefirstandbuildoutwards.You’llsoonhaveadra-maticincreaseinstrengthandbalance,yourbackwillfeelgreat,andyoursportwillgothroughtheroof. Formoreinformation,pleasecall(925)680-4400orgotowww.AspirePil-atesCenter.com

“The Core” DefinedBy Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates

PAID ADVERTORIAL


MOLINO’S RAVIOLI

Molino’s Hot Food & CateringFor complete menu visit, www. molinosravioli.net

Regular Store Hours Mon- Sat 9am - 5:30pm • Sunday 10 - 52150 Pleasant Hill Road., 925.934.7075

• Call Ahead to Order or Just Walk In • In Business for Over 60 Years Serving Famous Beef, Chicken, Cheese, Butternut Squash, Vegetarian and Seafood Ravioli. Also Serving Homemade Gnocchi, Lasagna, Cannelloni and Soups and a Variety of Sauces

homemade ravioli since 1925MENTION

THIS AD

TO GET

$1.00 OFF

JENNIFER L. MARTIN, D.D.S.

Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

401 GREGORY LANE, SUITE 126PLEASANT HILL, CA 94523

925.676.8485 FAX 925.676.0288www.drjennifermartin.com

THE GARDEN

ItdoesnotgetmuchbetterthanMayaroundtheseparts.Inmyag-ingopinion,perfectionequalstemperaturesaround75to80degrees,littleifanyrainfall,mildeveningstoprimethesummerbar-b-quebyandbestofall,drumroll….CHERRIES!ComingoutoftheCentralValleyor,betteryet,Brentwood,westartoutwithseasonalopeners:BerlatsandBrooks.Big,fatandjuicysweetwithasourtangattheend,theseareperfectlyswellcherries,butwait,there’smore!Astheseasonmoveson,Bingcher-riescomeintoseasonalongwithTulare,Rainer,Lambert,GarnetandRubyvarieties,tonameafew.This,myfriends,isapartyinyourmouth. Eachcherryisakintodrinkingacupofjuice.Plumpandcrunchy,thingsjustgetbetterasthemonthmoveson.Alwaysstriv-ingforfinancialgain,thecherryindustry,alongwithcuriousfarmers,keepcomingupwithnewvarietiestodazzleourtastebudsandcoaxourwalletsopen.Ineednoad-ditionalpromptingandprettymuchhaveagassytummythewholemonthfromcherryoverindulgence.AfewnewonestolookforthisyearareSequoia,Yosemite,Royal

Darlings,RosieRainer,CoralChampagne,PrettyBabyandSweetheart.Allaresweetvarieties,andsomeareyellowwithacherryblush.Cherriesaresuperbantioxidants,andanicehandfulchompeddownaresaidtobeagreatwaytogetridofheadaches. Excessrainaftercherrieshavesetonatreewillcausetheindustry’sworstnight-mare–cracking.Whenyouseecrackedcherriesonmarkettables,itisasignofre-centrain,notbadcherries.Californiaex-portsmassiveamountsofthecherrycropallovertheworld.Whenyouthinkaboutproduceexportation,itmakesyougrate-fultohaveallthefarmers’marketsween-joyforfreshlypicked,localproduce.Goodnewsisthatorganiccherriesareontheriseaswedemandmoreorganicsfromoursup-pliers.Itisworking!Inthepastfewyears,Californiaisgrowingmoreorganicstraw-berrycrops,andcherriesarenotgoingtolagbehindifthereismoneytobemade.Goodforus. IamguiltyofeatingmostofmybagofcherriesbeforeIgethome,butoncetheurgencyofgorgingonfreshcherrieswearsoffandthereisanextrablockoftimeintheday,pitamessofcherriestouseinavari-etyoflusciousways.Maceratewithabitofhoneyandbalsamictodrapeovervanilla

Life is a Bowl of CherriesBy Lesley Stiles

yogurtoricecream.Bakeintochocolatebrowniesorchipcookies.Makethatbatchofsconesyou’vebeendreamingaboutandlovinglyfoldinyourhard-earnedbountyofrubydeliciousness,thenhoard.Produceacherrypie! Howeveryoudoit,whenyouaredone,getoutonalocaltrailforawildflowerwalk

toreallyappreciatespringinContraCostaCounty.Don’tforgettobreathe. LesleyStilesisagraduateoftheCali-forniaCulinaryAcademy,sustainableca-tererandschoolgardeneducator.ContactLesleyatlesleystiles@comcast.net,www.lesleystiles.blogspot.comandvisithernewwebsite:www.lesleystilesfoods.com.

Crispy Romaine Salad w/ Roasted Duckand Cherry Balsamic Drizzle

Cherry Balsamic Drizzle

Toss lettuce, feta, green onions, duck and cherries together in a large bowl with olive oil and drizzle. Garnish with almonds. Serves 6.

Pour wine and balsamic vinegar into a non-reactive saucepan. Bring to a boil and reduce by half. Add cherries and reduce by one third. Add honey and simmer for 5 minutes.To this base you can add rosemary, tarragon, orange peel or crushed cranberries as varia-tions. Use for a dressing on salad with olive oil or as a sauce to grilled chicken, roasted duck or vegetables. Store covered in refrigerator for up to 2 months. Makes 2 cups.

1 head romaine lettuce, medium chopped½ cup crumbled feta cheese¼ cup chopped green onion½ pound roasted duck, shredded2/3 cup Bing cherries, washed,

pitted and halved¼ cup chopped toasted local almonds3 tablespoons good, fruity olive oil3 tablespoons Balsamic drizzle (recipe follows)

1 cup pureed cherries2 cups balsamic vinegar

2 cups red wine½ cup honey

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

Directions:

Directions:

MOVING & STORAGE

Family owned and operated since 1975.

Move A Little Move A Lot

Excellence • Experience • Efficiency

925-372-0914

Office & Light Industrial • SeniorsResidential• Storage & Warehousing

PostcardCampaign The orthodontist office of Dr. Jennifer Mar-tin in Pleasant Hill is inviting the community to come into the office, pick up a postcard and write a message to a serviceman or woman who is serving overseas. Postcards will be available at the front desk and all ages can participate. You can write your message on the spot or take it home and return it at a later date. The postcards will then be collected by the staff and forwarded to the Blue Star Moms of Concord on Flag Day, June 14. Dr. Martin’s office is located at 401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126 in Pleasant Hill.


Exploring with Toddlers

Suburbanbackyardsprovidejustabouteverythingaduckneeds:goodnestingcoversuchasivyandtallgrassesthatallowaducktonestledownandhide;importantfoodsourcessuchassnails,slugsandtastybugs,andwater(thatisusuallynearby).Evenifyoudon’thaveaswimmingpool,therearemanycanalsthatcrisscrossContraCostaCountyandthereisoftenaswimmingpoolinaneighboringyard.Whenafemaleduckissearchingforanestsite,shelooks

fortheseattributesasshefliesaroundtheneighborhood. Thecommonwildducksinourareaaremallardsormallard-lookinghybrids.Mallardswillmatewithmanydifferentkindsofducks,soit’scommontoseeducksthatlooksomewhatlikemallards,butnotexactly.Thesehybridsarepartdomestic,partmallard.Theyarewillingtolivetheirlivespracticallyunderourfoot-steps.Mallardsareextremelyadaptableandhavebeenknowntonestinplanterboxesoutsideshoppingmalls,onrooftops,roadwaymediansandevenondoorsteps. It’snotuncommontocomehomeoneafternoonandfindapairofducksinyour

Why are Ducks in My Backyard? By Susan Heckly, Lindsay Wildlife Museum

pooloranestwithseveraleggsinyourlandscaping.Femaleslayeighttoteneggsthathatchaboutfourweekslater.Assoonastheducklingsaredriedofffromhatch-ing,themotherleadsherbroodtowater.Thisiswheretheycanrunintoproblems.Ifthewaterisyourswimmingpool,thesidesaresometimestoohighforducklingstogetout.Addaramptotheside(apieceofplywoodcoveredwithaterryclothtowel)sothebabiescanwalkout.Ifthewaterisacanalblocksaway,thereistraffictocontendwith.Ifthefamilyistryingtocrossabusystreet,actasacrossingguardforthem.Federallawprohibitsinterferingwithnestingbirds,includingmallards.If

youdiscoveranestinyouryard,thebestthingtodoisleaveitalone.Tips to reduce your chances of having a duck nest on your property:•Keepyourpoolcovered.•Clearawayfoliagefromaroundyourpooloranyareaswhereanestcouldbehidden.•Floatbeachballsandinflatableswansonyourpooltomakeitlesshospitable.•Neverprovidefoodforducksthatvisityouryard;infact,manyfoodssuchasbreadarebadforducks. FormoreinformationaboutLindsayWildlifeMuseumandwaysyoucanhelpwildlife,visitwww.wildlife-museum.org.

MinutemanPress

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DID YOU KNOW...WE DO MORE THAN BUSINESS CARDS?

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925-256-6444www.minutemanpressph.com

Pleasant Hill City Hall Photo by Susan Wood Photography

Toddling Around Mount Dia-blo,the2012-2013edition,hasjustarrived!Thisevery-daylocalguidebookbyBrennaShafizadehandSarahBeckeristhemostcomprehensivebookofitskindforfamilieswithyoungchildrenlivinginWalnutCreek,Concord,PleasantHill,Clayton,Lafayette,Moraga,Orinda,andMartinez.Andthisyear’seditionhasexpandedtoincludeahikingchapter! Itbecameclearthatourlocalfamiliesenjoyhiking,andtheyareespeciallyin-terestedinfindinghikesthatarefriendlyforthewholefamily,eventheveryyoungestmembers.Inadditiontosomegreattrails,you’llfindtipstomakeout-ingseasierandevensomeeasyrecipesfortastytrailmixes. Toddling Around Mount Diabloisan

incredibleresourcethatcompilesfamilyactivityinformationintooneorganizedandwell-detailedbook.Didyouknowthattherearefreeactivitiesofferedbylocalbusinesseseverydayoftheweek?Theyarelistedinthefirstchapter.Thesecondchaptercoverslocalparksandmapsfor

eachoneaswellasinformationdetailingwhichparkshavetotlots,nearbybath-roomsandothernecessarydetails. Retailingforonly$10,themust-haveforlocalparentsandplaygroupscanbepurchasedattheWomen’sHealthCenterinWalnutCreek,LemonadeinWalnutCreek,StorytellerinLafayette,BerkshireBooksinConcord,EncoreGymnasticsinConcord,WeeChangeinWalnutCreek,OrindaBooksinOrinda,oronlineatwww.toddlingaroundmtdiablo.com.

Library Gets a MakoverBy Katherine Bracken

ThePleasantHillLibrarygets300visi-torsadayandhostsfivepackedstorytimesforchildreneveryweek.Thechildren’sareaiscontinuallybusy,butwaslackingacom-fortableplaceforchildrenandcaregiverstosittogether.OnMarch27,wecelebratedthelibrary’slatestimprovementandthegener-ousdonorswhomadeithappen.Twogen-erousdonationsfromanindividualprovid-edfundstobuyarug,benchandoversizedstuffedtoys.UsingpaintdonatedbyBill’sACEHardware,ErikandKenfromPay-lessPaintingtransformedthedrab,beigewindowareaintoaglowingjewel.Finallya$1,000grantfromthePleasantHillCom-munityFoundationandfundsfromtheFriendsofthePleasantHillLibraryboughtmoreinteractivetoyssuchasanactivitycubeandgiantpuzzlepieces. Inthenewactivityarea,childrencanplayandlearntogether,engageinactivi-

tiesthathelpdevelopmotorskills,laythegroundworkforearlyliteracy,andprovidethenecessarytoolstosucceedinschoolandlife. Otherimprovementsmadeoverthepastyearincludemovingfictiondown-stairs,expandingshelfspaceforyoungadultbooksandaddingnewprogramsforallages.Aswonderfulastheseimprove-mentsare,unfortunatelytheycan’tmakeupforthefactthatthecurrentbuildingisoldandunabletofullymeettheneedsofthePleasantHillcommunity.Weneedmorespacethatcanbeusedformultiplepurpos-esincludingmeetingareas,studyareasandcomputers.Weneedalibrarythatisacces-sibletoallandreflectstheneedsanddesiresofourcommunity.Perhapsonedaywewillfollowinthefootstepsofnearbycommuni-ties.Imaginethepossibilities.WhatwouldtheideallibraryinPleasantHilllooklike?

Submitted by Payless Painting


5/1 - Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club 7pmInterimLocation:CamelliaRoom-HeatherFarms,1540MarchbanksDr.,WalnutCreek.Speakers:KathyBarrett&DennisOlivas,Topic:Orchids101,Guests:Welcome,free,Contact:925-944-4898,Website:www.phgsc.com

5/2 - Franklin Canyon Mural Fundraiser6pm–9pmatRoxxonMain,527MainSt.,Martinez.SilentAuction,LiveMusic,Food,Drinks,andOriginalStudentArt.Tickets:$35.00ppandproceedsbenefitthemuralLorenaCastillo:[email protected].

5/5 – Charity Walk benefitting Royal Family Kids-9:00-11:00amContraLomaRegionalPark,Antioch.RoyalFamilyKidstakesabused,abandonedandneglected7-11year-oldfosterchildrenofContraCostaCountyforaweek-longFREEsummercamp.Registeronlineatwww.rfkccharity-walk.dojiggy.com.Cost$25.00,children15andunderfree.RefreshmentsandT-shirtpickupbeginsat8am.

American Red Cross Mobile Blood Drives – Open to the Public •5/8-Tuesday9am-3pm,DiabloValleyCollege,PleasantHill,TrophyRoom,321GolfClubRoad.Spon-sorCode:DVCPH•5/8-Tuesday12:30pm-6:30pm,CarringtonCollege,PleasantHill,AmericanRedCrossBus,380CivicDr.SponsorCode:CCCPH•5/9-Wednesday9am-2pm,HeffernanInsuranceBrokers,WalnutCreek,1350CarlbackAve.Spon-sorCode:HEFFERNAN•5/11-Friday1pm-6pm,SpringhillElementarySchool,Lafayette,3477SchoolStreet,Lafayette.SponsorCode:RACHAELWENGER•5/15-Tuesday10am-3pm,ShellOilProducts,Martinez,M.R.C.ClubHouse,1635PachecoBlvd.,Martinez.SponsorCode:SHELLMTZ•5/29-Tuesday8am-2pm,BankofAmericaTechnologyCenter,Concord,ConferenceRoom,1655GrantSt.SponsorCode:BOA84TECH.Datesandtimesofblooddrivesaresubjecttochange.TheRedCrossrecommendsschedulinganappointmenttodonatebloodinadvance.MentiontheSponsorCodelistedunderthedatesandlocationsabove.Formoreinfor-mation,call1-800-REDCROSS(1-800-733-2767)orvisitredcrossblood.org.

EVENTS

AT THE LIBRARY

Calendar

Pleasant HillTuesdays - Doorstep Farmers Pick Up.5-7pm.SignupwithDoorstepFarmers,alocalCSA,atwww.doorstepfarmers.com.Allsubscriberswillreceivea5%discountforchoosingPleasantHillLibraryastheirpick-uplocation.

Mother Goose Storytime. Wednesdays-11:15-11:45am;Fridays-11:15-11:45pm&1:15-1:45pm.Ages0-3.

Wednesdays - English Conversation Prac-tice for Adults. 1:30-2:30pm.ThisESLgroupmeetsweekly.Ages18+.

Thursdays - Preschool Storytime.11:15-11:45am.Ages3-5.

Thursdays 5/10 & 5/29 - Wii for Teens -Playsomeboardgamestoo!RoomA;3pm-4:30pm.

Fridays - NEW! Contra Costa Teen Chess Club.3-5pm.Instruction,friendlymatches,andtournaments.Pleasecomeifyouareatallinterestedinlearningmoreaboutchess,improvingyourgame,andmeetinglike-minded,localteens!Alllevelsarewelcome.

Saturdays - Saturday Story Time,Babies,Preschoolers,Kids.11:15-11:45am.

5/2, 5/3 & 5/10 - One-on-One Computer Tutor.11am&12pm.Setupanappointmentforaone-hour,one-on-onecomputertrainingsessionwithoneofthePleasantHillLibrary’strainedcomputertutors.925-646-6434.

5/11-5/13 - Martinez Open Studios 2012.Friday,May11-OpeningArtists’ReceptionandGroupExhibition6-9pm;Saturday,May12–11amto6pm;Sunday,May13–11amto4pm.Location:I’veBeenFramed,411FerrySt.,Martinez.

5/11 - 5/12 - 12th Annual AAUW Gar-den Tour-SixDelightfulGardenslocatedinAlamoandDanville.10am-4pm.Forticketswithgardenlocations,mailcheckbyMay4thpayableto“AAUWFunds”withaself-addressedbusiness-sized(#10)stampedenvelopeto:AAUWGardenTour,POBox996,Alamo,CA94507.$30ifpostmarkedbyMay4th,$35thereafter;$25forseniors65+byMay4th,$30thereafter.Tickets(cashorcheckonly)arealsoavailableatEastBayFlowerCompany,206SycamoreValleyRoadWest(DanvilleLivery).Furtherinformation:[email protected],please.

5/18 - 5/20 - Christ the King Festival –Fri.6-10pm;Sat.2–10pm;Sun.10am–2pm.

5/20 - Free Day at Lindsay Wildlife Mu-seum! 10am–5pm.Comelearnmoreaboutthewildworldaroundusbyspendingadaywith50speciesoflocalCaliforniaanimalsandengagingwithournewinteractiveexhibits.Getclosertowildlifeduringspecialfeedingandtrainingpresentationsthrough-outtheday,includingabehind-the-sceneslookatourwildlifehospital.1931FirstStreet,WalnutCreek.www.wildlife-muse-um.org.Freeallday;makeadayofitwithapicnicandplaytimeinadjacentLarkeyPark.

5/18 - The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112meetsthe3rdWednesdayofeachmonth.Weperformgreatmagicandhaveloadsoffun!Opentoall!RoundTablePizza,7pm,2960TreatBlvd.,Concord,CA.Joinusthismonthandlearnmagic!Infor-mation:CallFred(925)451-1292

Ongoing - July - John Muir the Inven-tor:JohnMuirNationalHistoricSite,4202AlhambraAve,Martinez.Forhoursofoperationcall(925)228-8860.

Rodgers Ranch Round Up - Heritage Days9am-2pm,$35perday.Ages7-12Session1:June26–FeedingtheFamily.Session2:June28–GardenandNature.Session3:July24–SingandPlay.Session4:July26–JobDayfortheKids.315CortsenRd.Pleasant

[email protected],orcallDeniseKoroslevat(925)387-0158.Spaceislimited.

5/12 Pleasant Hill Garden Club Plant Sale9am-2pm.WinslowCenter,cornerofPleasantHillRoadandTaylorBlvd.Contact:925-944-4898,Website:www.phgsc.com.Choosefromalargevarietyofplantsgrownbyclubmembers:flowers,succulents,vegetables,herbsandselectionsofheirloom,droughttolerant,CAnativeandrareplants.GiftsforMother’sDay:handcraftedgardentraysandsucculent-roofbirdhouses,gardentools,funkycontainers,vintagedecoritems.MasterGardenersonsitetoprovideanswersandhorticulturalexpertiseandRoseSocietydisplayofcutrosesandinformationaboutrosecare.

5/5 - Friends of the Library Book Sale9:30am–3:30pm.

5/5 - E Waste Recycling Event 10am–4pm.

5/8 - PH Book Club. Zeitoun,byDaveEgg-ers.6:30pm-7:30pm.

5/9 - The PHUN Team,PleasantHillUnit-edNerdsTeam.3:30-5:00pm.Meetotherteensandtheyoungadultlibrariantoshareandplanwhatyouwanttoseehappenatthelibrary.Ages13-18.

5/15 - Musical Performance, Farouche:HotJazzEnsemble.6:30-7:30pm.

5/29 - The Lizard Lady6:30pm.CheckouttheLizardLady’samazingreptiles,includingiguanas,geckos,skinks,pythons,andothersnakes

Martinez:Mondays5/7&5/14-Pajama Time.6:30pm-7:30pm.Allageswelcome.

Tuesdays5/1,5/8,5/15&5/22-Mother Goose Storytime -10:30-11am,ages0-3.

5/2 - Wii Wednesday 2–4pm.

5/8 - May Origami3:30–4:30pm.

5/8 - Book Discussion Group-JoinusaswediscussMirage,byBandulaChandrar-atnaAdults.6:45pm.

5/12 - Author Talk: Why We Laugh 3:30–4:30pm.TheAuthorof“BlackComediansonBlackComedy”andExecutiveProducerofRobertTownsend’sdocumentary“WhyWeLaugh”DarrylLittletonoffersanhistori-calapproachtocomedy.

5/12 - eReader Mini Workshop. 2:00–3:00pm.ThisworkshopisforalleReadersexcepttheKindleandtheNook.

5/22 - “These Amazing Shadows”Freemoviescreening5:45–7:45pm.ThisisanOfficialselectionofthe2011Sundancefilmfestival,andGravitasDocufilmspresent“TheseAmazingShadows,”afilmbyPaulMarianoandKurtNorton.Co-director,PaulMariano,aMartinezresident,willbeonhandtoprovideafreescreeningofhismovie.“TheseAmazingShadows”tellsthehistoryandimportanceofTheRegistry,arollcallofAmericancinematreasuresthatreflectsthediversityoffilm,andindeedtheAmericanexperienceitself.JoinusforthefilmandstayafterforaQ&A.


DavidLeynov,a7thgraderatSequoiaMiddleSchool,isnowafinalistintheNationalHistoryBeetobeheldinWashington,D.C.inMay.TheHistoryBeeMiddleSchoolCompetitionispartoftheNationalHistoryBeeandBowl,sponsoredbytheHistoryChannel.Thebee,priortothisyear,hasbeenahighschooleventwithanannualcompetitioninWashington,D.C.forparticipatingschoolsthroughouttheU.S.Thisyear,amiddleschoolcomponentwasadded.Theschoolsthatregisteredheldschoolbeesasintramurals.Theschool-widebeewasheldinlateDecemberandthosewhoenteredtookeighty-questiontest.DavidtookfirstplaceandJoseph(Joey)Har-rington,an8thgrader,cameinsecond. StudentsweregivenanonlineregionalqualifyingexamtoearnaspotintheRegionalBee.BothDavidandJoeyparticipatedintheRegionalBeeinSacramentoatWinstonChurchillMiddleSchoolonMarch2.DavidbeatoutthecompetitioninaJeopardy-liketestandisnowtheRegionalWin-nerforNorthernCaliforniaand

NorthernNevada.TheNationalHistoryBeeMiddleSchoolCompetitionwillcul-minateinthe2012NationalChampion-shipinWashington,D.C.ontheweekendofMay12.Studentswillcompeteinaseriesofpreliminaryrounds,followedbyafinalmatchtodeterminetheultimatewinner,whichwillberecordedfortelecastonHISTORY®.ParticipatingstudentswillbevyingfortheGrandPrizeof$50,000inscholarshipmoney.

Winner Bound for D.C.By Kathleen Bale, History Teacher at Sequoia Middle School

David Leynov. Photo by Diana Fetterman

Eagle Scouts Honored

FPHE’s Amazing Race

College Park High School seniors Lucas Velzy and Robert Spark were presented with the rank of Eagle Scout on April 14. Both boys have been members of Troop 282 since the first grade. Lucas successfully completed the required merit badges and an Eagle service project of a clothes drive for the local charity, Christmas for Everyone. Robert successfully complet-ed the required merit badges and an Eagle service project that provided College Park with a test-taking center for their learning center, so students would have a quiet environment for test-taking and after school tutoring.

TheAmazingRacewas…amazing!OnApril21,fiftyteamsparticipatedintheFoundationforPleasantHillEducation’sfirstannualAmazingRace!Activitiesincludedbalancingdiceonpopsiclesticks,ascavengerhuntatRodger’sRanch,puttingatGraysonWoodsandfindingapoetrybookattheLibrary.TheeventroundedupwithallteamssearchingfortheelevenPleasantHillpagoda’smarkingtheentrancestothecity.Greatfunwashadbyall.ThewinningteamwasthePleasantHillbillies.Theyreceivedacarvedtrophyandagiftcardfor$100.SecondplaceteamwasRoadrunnerandWileE.CoyoteandthirdplacewenttoAlden’sRUs.Lookforwardtotheeventnextyearwithnewchallengesandactivities.

The Amazing Race winners! The Pleasant Hillbillies

InAprilof2010,thispaperrana“TeenShowcase”articleonPleasantHill’sAmyMartz.ShehadappliedtotenschoolsandwasabouttograduatefromCollegeParkHighschool.Shewasconsideringmajoringinpoliticalscienceandwasbusypreparingforcollegeinthefall.RevisitingAmytwoyearslater,it’sinterestingtoseewhatthishighachiev-ingwomanhasbeenupto.AmychosetoattendUCSanDiegoandismajor-ingincommunicationswithaminorinbusiness.ShewastheonlymemberoftheBlueDevilsinhighschoolandisstillamemberoftheConcordBlueDevilsDrum&BugleCorps.Notonlyisshestillinthe“ACorps,”butinDecemberof2011,shewasafeaturedclinicianattheWBC(WorldBandCompetition)InternationalBandCampinKualaLumpur,Malaysia.Inhighschool,shewasastraightAstudentandrecentlysheacceptedmembershipintotheNationalSocietyofCollegiateScholars(NSCS).ThisorganizationisamemberoftheAs-sociationofCollegeHonorSocietiesand

isthenation’sonlyinterdisciplinaryhon-orsorganizationforfirstandsecond-yearcollegestudents.Membershipisbyinvita-tiononlyandisbasedongradepointaverageandclassstanding.Asiftheseactivitiesdidn’tkeepAmybusyenough,shewillbestudyingabroadnextfallinRomethroughtheUCEAP(UniversityofCaliforniaEducationAbroadProgram).CongratulationsAmyandgoodluckasyoucontinuetostriveforexcellence!

Grad Continues to Shine

TEEN SCENE


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BCI Cabinet DesignBest Western Plus John Muir Inn

Big Air Heating and Air ConditioningBryce Schumacher, J. Rockcliff

Buena Vista Swim ClubCalifornia Pacific Federal Credit Union

Camp ConcordColdstone CreameryCollege Park Boosters

Computer Sales and ServiceCountry Waffles

Dallimonti’sDowntown Pleasant Hill

Flaskerud- Re-MaxHagin’s Automotive

Hire My HusbandHitchcock Realty

Home Detailers HousekeepingJennifer L. Martin D.D.S.

John The Painter

Kobe JapanLe Jardin at the Spa

Les Schwab TiresMain Street Martinez

Martinez Chamber of CommerceMatthew C. Rinn, State Farm Insurance

Minuteman PressMolino’s Ravioli

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NorCal CourtsPacific Coast Farmers’ Market

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Samuels ConstructionSenior Helpers

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Dining Out Downtown Martinezwww.MainStreetMartinez.org

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627 Main St. • downtown Martinez • 370-7699 • www.RoxxOnMain.comMon - Wed 11-3 Thurs 11-8 Fri 11-90 Sat 5-9

Combining an outstanding selection of eclectic international tapas style small plates, featuring the freshest locally sourced, organic, and sustainable ingredients, an ever changing

selection of wines, plus the friendliness and comfort of a neighborhood restaurant.

Creek Monkey Tap House

20 Craft Beers on Tap!Lunch Menu - Dinner Menu - Kids Menu

featuring locally sourced food and a friendly staff3 big screen tv’s plus 120” projection screen upstairs

Banquet room for meetings and private partiesOutdoor seating in the Biergarten

Mon/Tues 11-8, Weds/Thurs 11-9, Fri/Sat 11-10, Sun 12-8

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Homemade Chocolate Eclair Cake!

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Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling the tree-lined streets in downtown Martinez sipping wine at local businesses.

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For more information call (925) 228-3577or visit www.mainstreetmartinez.org

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Documents

May 2012 Community Focus