09 02 Concord Ian Web

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February 2009

925.673.5367

John Muir expansion takes shape

The Co direct m ncordian is ailed f 34,000 h ree to over omes an business d es in Co n c or EVERY C oncord b d with usiness receivin g one



Concord acts to head off fiscal disaster



Random Acts of Kindness Recognized



Remembering Jerry FitzPatrick



Finding The Best in Customer Service



ARTS and ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

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Then why would you operate your computer without regular maintenance.

Topping Out

3 7 9 10

Continuing its commitment to the community, the John Muir Medical Center expansion takes shape

What Really Matters

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Special Correspondent ABC-7 News Anchor Dan Ashley honors a fallen war hero

Avoiding Fiscal Disaster Concord’s city manager tackles the economic squeeze with a pre-emptive strike

Death by Education Cuts MEET THE AUTHORS AT CLAYTON BOOKS. Schedule of Feb. Events. 02/7, Sat. 3pm . . . . . . . Film Screening of PAPERBACK DREAMS The story of two landmark bay area independent bookstores and their struggle to survive. 2/08, Sun. 3pm . . . . . .BLAIR KILPATRICK, author of “Accordian Dreams: A Journey Into Cajun and Creole Music” will perform. 2/09, Mon. 4pm . . . . . .JULIA ALVAREZ, author of “Return to Sender,” “In the Time of Butterflies” and more. 2/14, Sat. 1pm . . . . . . .HEIDI ASHWORTH, author of “Miss Delacourt Speaks her Mind.” 02/15, Sun. 3pm . . . . .SEAN ARBABI, author of “The Better Photo Guide To Exposure.” 2/18, Wed. 7pm . . . . . .Author Tea with JAMIE FORD, author of “The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet.” To be held at Oakhurst Country Club (there is a fee for this event, which includes, coffee, tea, dessert and the book) 02/26, Thurs. 7pm . . . .YIYUN LI, author of “1000 Years of Good Prayers” and “Vagrants.”

Open: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily 5433 D Clayton Rd., Clayton

In the Clayton Station [email protected]



www.claytonbookshop.com

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A Walk Through History

11 13

Concord fourth graders get entrenched in California history

Remembering Jerry

17 18 23 25

Cover: Workers atop the John Muir Health Center Concord Campus expansion prepare to afix the final steel beam. Photo: Andre’ Gensburger/ The Concordian

Other Stuff RoundAbout . . . .4 Teen Perspective10

Jerry FitzPatrick left a legacy and a wealth of Concord memories

A New Green Generation . . . .12 The Real Deal . . .14 Featured Home .15

Random Acts of Kindness

d r o c n o C t l u Ad l l a b n! u t f r f o f t o S compete or jus

(925) 6

An education panel examines the desperate funding issues and ways to avert an impending major crisis

(925) 673-3325

REGIS TE NOW R ! Leagu e s an night s fill u d p quick ly!

or call website

Inside

St per Parting a C, p t $20 er m onth

Would you drive your car without changing oil or having scheduled maintenance performed?

February, 2009

Concord’s Human Relations Commission honors local residents

A Valentine’s Day Recipe A sumptuous recipe for Chocolate Dipped Strawberries brought to you by the Farmers’ Market

Dispatchers Reach Out

Something To Smile About . . . .16 Mayor’s Open Office . . . . . . . . .19 Local Sports . . . .20 Scenes from the Society . . . . . . . .21 Legal Briefs . . . .22

Raising money for a family in Directory of need, Concord Police Dispatchers Advertisers . . . .22 make a difference

Living History . . 23

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT It keeps getting better - Theater Reviews, Art Galleries, DVD Reviews and Local Events.

Getting Out Calendar listing .27

February, 2009

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 3 Photos by André Gensburger/The Concordian

‘Topping out’ celebrates John Muir Concord Campus’ ambitious expansion

By André Gensburger The Concordian

he painted white girder, the last in the initial construction phase of the John Muir Health Medical Center’s Concord campus expansion, became the focal point in the construction’s “Topping Out” ceremony Jan. 9. From about 700 A.D., with origins in Scandinavia, it became customary to top out new construction with sheaths of grain for good luck. The Vikings spread this custom to Europe, with the Britons and Germans substituting small trees. Americans added a flag to complete the custom. The estimated $179 million for this part of the project has received much

T

Mayor Laura Hoffmeister looks for an empty spot to add her signature to the top beam

philanthropic attention, including an ambitious fund-raising project spearheaded by campaign chair Michael L. Levine, an oncologist with heavy ties to the John Muir Health Foundation. The goal of $56 million in fund-raising is well underway, currently at $28.6 million, through a variety of naming opportunities.

A rich history Levine joined the Concord medical staff in 1978 and was on the Mt. Diablo Hospital Board prior to its unification with the Walnut Creek campus under the John Muir Health banner. He has played a prominent role in the development of the Radiation Oncology Department for Concord. “I’ve been here for 30 years,” Levine said. “I’ve seen lots of wonderful growth over time as this region has grown. It was just a small house when it started in 1930.” It was, in fact, a wood-frame house which was turned into a five-bed facility by nurse Edna Gallagher Haywood. Thirty years later, with a four-story addition, it became Concord’s tallest building. In 1973, it had the first elevator in the county installed and the county’s first cardiac catheterization was performed onsite. The hospital continued over the years to accumulate awards for services rendered to the community in areas such as being a stroke center, cancer institute and robotic surgical center. “When I came here, it was a sleepy area with a large horse population,” Levine recalled of his arrival from Illinois. “Like many others, I trained at nearby UC San Francisco, getting a taste of the Bay Area. I was anxious to stay.”

A stronger community Levine explained his pride in the foundation, which in his view exemplifies a solid investment in the community. “This is the largest project of its kind,” he said of the Concord project and a similar one in the works at the Walnut Creek campus. “When you make this $800 million (combined) commitment to the community, even in these challenging economic times, it makes a strong statement. We’ve had quite a legacy. That is so inspiring to me.” The new structure, a patient care tower and the John Muir Cardiovascular Institute, will have 12 private cardiovascular ICU beds, 49 private remotely monitored beds, four cardiac catheterization labs and 12 preoperative/recovery beds. Included in the work is an expansion of the Emergency Department with 32 private treatment stations, a satellite imaging center as well as a dedicated chest pain/observation unit, remodeled critical care and nursing units and 61 new private family-centered rooms with outdoor views. The John Muir Medical Center Concord Campus has been recognized as a preeminent center for oncology and cardiovascular services, including open-heart surgery. In 2008 HealthGrades, an independent health care quality company ranked the Concord campus among the top five percent of hospitals nationally. The Walnut Creek Campus was ranked one of “America’s Best Hospitals 2008” by U.S. News & World Report.

Grassroots effort At the topping out ceremony, benefactors, local dignitaries and communi-

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS ABOVE and on the ground below watch as the Topping Out ceremony begins marking the end of the initial structural assembly,

ty leaders joined the physicians, nurses, construction workers and visitors, writing messages on the white steel beam before it was hoisted into place by a large crane. Ken Meehan, executive vice president of operations for John Muir Health, addressed the crowd – describing how a collective vision brought them to this point. “It’s been 11 months since we broke ground,” he noted. Michael Monaldo, vice president of facilities development at John Muir Health, thanked the city of Concord. “They helped make it better,” he said, discussing the more than 2,000 sheets of drawings that went into the project. He also thanked the neighbors for their patience during the work. “This is a grassroots campaign,” Levine said before the ceremony. “It reaches everyone in the community and we hope to see a wider participation as we continue.” Concerned about the economy and funding cuts from various sources, Levine stressed the importance of having the backing of the community. “The people in this region have been very supportive. I am very impressed and very excited.” The John Muir Health Foundation is a 501©(3) nonprofit organization established in 1979 to support the nonprofit John Muir Health organization which serves communities in Contra Costa and parts of Solano and Marin counties. “Both hospitals need to expand to address current capacity pressures and accommodate emerging medical technologies,” Levine said. For more information, visit www.johnmuirhealthfoundation.org or call 947-4459.

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

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about

People, places and things seen around Concord

It’s a dog’s life at ARF fashion show The fourth annual dog fashion show and silent auction to benefit Tony La

Cheryl and Bernard Peters and Deena of Clayton. Deena won for best dressed for her age category.

Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, packed in an audience of about 70 pooches and owners at the Concord Hilton on Jan. 22. General Manager, David Cantando served as emcee. There were 15 participants including Tony La Russa’s Chihuahua Twiggy. Dashiell, a wired haired dachshund owned by Nancie Brown of Concord won Best in Show with the Best Dressed under 1 year old category going to Deena, a 5 month old Bishon. Deena, owned by Cheryl and Bernard Peters of Clayton, wore a brown furry top with a pink and blue dress with ruffles and a fur hat with pink and blue bows. She also wore a double strand of pearls. Not all the dogs were willing participants with a few having to be dragged onto the stage. - Mike Dunn

The Best of Customer Service Celebrating the employees who know how to make customers happy. These days finding excellent customer service is a rarity. And so, when we come across Concordians who demonstrate a natural desire to do their best, especially when it comes to service oriented jobs, we believe those individuals should be congratulated. We found such person in Melissa Vun who works at Longs Drugs in the Clayton MELISSA VUN OF LONGS DRUGS MAKES cusValley Shopping Center. tomer service look easy at Longs Drugs Melissa was deftly handling six customers who had been waiting tomers who felt they had received to pick up prescriptions and had special treatment and were not been delayed by a backup of put off by the delay at all. The orders. Melissa addressed each Concordian congratulates Melissa customer by name, assured them on excellent customer service that she would continue to check skills. Keep up the great work. on their order, verified the information she had and returned to If you have an employee whom tell the customer where their you believe displays outstanding order was in queue and, offering service, email info@myconcorthem a seat, assured them she dian.com and tell us why. We'll would monitor it. check it out and if we agree, will This she did with each cusprint their photograph in our tomer, checking back with them paper's "The Best of Customer more than once to advise them of Service." the progress while making small - The Publishers talk to put them at ease. The result was a happy line of cus-

February, 2009

Mayor Newsom visits Concord with eye toward governorship

Mike Dunn/The Concordian

SAN FRANCISCO MAYOR GAVIN NEWSOM pushes for change in California and an agenda that will likely involve a run as governor

San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom held a town hall meeting at the Concord Senior Center on Jan. 15, attracting a large crowd and raising the question of his intentions as a 2010 California gubernatorial candidate. Concord Mayor Laura Hoffmeister introduced Newsom, who is holding a series of town hall meetings throughout the state to talk about his work as mayor, his plans for governor and to assess the public’s mood. Of the county’s 19 mayors invited, only three were present: Hoffmeister, Martinez Mayor Rob Schroder and Brentwood Mayor Bob

Taylor. Audience member Brian Kerr commented on the possibility of Newsom running for governor. “Actually, I think it’s a great idea that he does,” Kerr said. “With the budget deficits, we need somebody to make a change on what’s going on in California so that the right areas are taken care of – such as education.” Newsom talked about his successes, including San Francisco’s universal health care, preschool programs and a volunteer initiative that connects residents to the homeless. He even poked

See Newsom, page 6

Panel honors local volunteers The Concord Human Relations Commission held its 22nd annual awards ceremony on Jan. 13. With the theme “out of many, one community,” the commission recognized nine people and several agencies for what Chair Janis Hoyt described as “those types of things that make our community special.”

JAY BEDECARRÉ listens as Janis Hoyt explains the reasons for the recognition he received

Recognition went to the Monument Crisis Center volunteers, who were given the Community Involvement Award for their work with individuals throughout Central Contra Costa County. Sandra Scherer, the center’s executive director, said the Center has given food to 19,000 people in the last three months. She called a group of volunteers up to accept the award with her. “It’s good for the soul, it feeds the heart, it does something for a person to give back to the community,” she said of volunteering. Jay Bedecarré of Clayton was given the commission’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his work promoting youth sports. Bedecarré was one of the original founders of the Concord Cup soccer tournament, now in its 15th year. The tournament has given more than $100,000 in proceeds

See Honors, page 6

Can You Help Out? Ayers Elementary PTA is seeking donations from Bay Area businesses for the 8th Annual, Dinner Dance and Auction fundraiser to be held on Friday, Mar. 6. Gift certificates, auction items or monetary sponsorship are needed. Contact Kristi at 676-5215 or [email protected].

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

February, 2009

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It’s all in the family for this magic show

East Bay nonprofits receive $1.4 million from Chevron The East Bay Community Foundation recently announced that 29 East Bay non-profit organizations will receive more than $1.4 million in charitable donations from Chevron Corporation. Chevron used the Foundation’s research on community needs and knowledge of local nonprofit organizations to identify recipients of these grants ranging from $25,000 to $50,000. Contra Costa Crisis Center, Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, Monument Crisis Center, and Stand! Against Domestic Violence received their donations from Chevron at the Food Bank warehouse in Concord on Jan 16. “In recent months the number of

Photo by Mike Dunn

MAGICIAN DAN CHAN noisily makes coins appear in a can.

LARRY SLY - FOOD BANK, SANDRA SCHERER - MONUMENT CRISIS CENTER, Darian Louie - East Bay Community Foundation, Dave Feldman - Chevron, Irit Umani - Stand! Against Domestic Violence, Janet Auer - Chevron and John Bateson - Contra Costa Crisis Center.

people calling our 24-hour crisis lines and 211 information and referral line

Kiwanis name Officer Reed as top cop

Tamara Steiner/The Concordian

ROCCI BARSOTTI

OF THE

KIWANIS CLUB, Officer Erica Reed and Chief David Livingston

A young Concord officer with less than four years of service under her belt was named Police Officer of the Year by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Concord. Erica Reed, 36, was honored at a luncheon attended by Concord Mayor Laura Hoffmeister, Supervisor Susan Bonilla and other local dignitaries, police department supervisors and colleagues and her parents. Reed was nominated by her supervising officer, Sgt. Maurice Jennings, who lauds her self-initiative and willingness to always “go the extra mile” in an investigation. Chief David Livingston made particular note of an embezzlement case two years ago in which Reed’s tenacity and thoroughness resulted in the recovery of $200,000 in gold and $90,000 in cash. “She is compassionate, intelligent and a creative problem solver,” said Livingston.

“I have the best job in the whole world,” said a composed, but ebullient Reed. “I can’t believe I get paid to do something I love so much.” Reed’s interest in law enforcement began in high school, when a few hours of volunteer work led to an internship and ultimately to the Explorer Scouts. After college, she worked for several years in business management, finally returning to the San Ramon PD as a crime prevention specialist. She joined the Concord PD as a sworn officer at age 32. This is the second year the Kiwanis Club has recognized an outstanding police officer. The 2007 award went to Master Officer Don Lawson. The Kiwanis meets Wednesdays at noon at the Old Spaghetti Factory on Todos Santos Plaza. For more information, call 372-5348. - Tamara Steiner

has increased 20 percent, largely because of anxiety over the economy,” said John Bateson, Executive Director of the Contra Costa Crisis Center. “People are losing their jobs, losing their homes, and seeing their retirement savings disappear. At the same time, individual donations have declined because people have less money to give. So it was a huge, wonderful surprise when we learned that Chevron was donating $50,000 to help us meet the increased demand for our services. We’re grateful for this, and for other support that makes our life-affirming services possible.” Larry Sly Executive Director of the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano agrees. “Chevron’s generous support will help us distribute much-needed food to our neighbors in need. Their timing could not have been better.”

A roomful of children and their parents enjoyed 20 different acts that Dan Chan the Magic Man, his wife Kat the Acrobat and their performing dog Ace put on at the Concord library on Jan. 12. Darcy Kermin and her daughter Kelly of Concord were on hand for the show. “We always come on Monday nights for the stories or other events,” Kermin said. “We love it! I’ve been coming here since September, when we moved from Walnut Creek to Concord.” Dan Chan has been performing all around the world for the last 10 years. “I do a lot of things besides magic. I do circus training as well,” he said. “In the show, you will see some acrobatics and juggling – three, four or five ball juggling. We pass six balls between the two of us.” In addition to performing 200-350 shows a year, Chan has written a book: “Magic Tricks to Fool Your Friends.” To the delight of the children, Ace made a guest appearance and did some tricks. Ace is a Papillon – a French word for butterfly – and during his act, his ears were flying like a butterfly’s. “He goes everywhere,” said Chan, “including libraries that say no dogs allowed. He gets to come in because he’s a performing dog. He travels with us all around the world as well.” - Mike Dunn

Farmers’ Market cooking demonstrations whet the appetite

CHEF GREG MANN, PROGRAM DIRECTOR of Cookin’ the Market demonstrate a recipe using fresh vegetables.

The Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association is holding a series of cooking workshops under a grant from the California Department of Public Health. “Our mission here at Cookin’ the

Market is to spread knowledge about cooking and nutrition and show folks how delicious simple, seasonal food can be,” said Greg Mann, program coordinator. “We try to show our audiences recipes that they can easily make at home, and we’ve received positive responses at our recent demonstrations. We hope that everyone has a good time and takes home a greater appreciation for nutritious local food.” Sarah Nelson, special projects coordinator added that “The program is unique in providing low-income residents with live demonstrations of healthy recipes using seasonal, local produce.” The demonstrations at the Concord WIC office at 2355 Stanwell Circle in Concord will take place on Feb. 3, Feb. 17, Mar. 17 and Mar. 31. Additional information can be found by calling (925) 825 9090

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 6

Honors, from page 4 to local youth soccer leagues. “Somehow my name percolated to the top,” he said. “But it really is the doing of a lot of people.” Awardee David Cantando is the general manager of the Concord Hilton. As an active member of the Contra Costa Literacy Coalition, he was pleased to see recently that Contra Costa has higher literacy levels than many surrounding areas. When the group set a goal of 100 percent literacy in the adult population of the county, “everybody thought it was pretty ambitious,” he said. “But we’re closer than we thought.” The Assistance League of Diablo Valley was given the Humanitarian Award, and Gabriela Menchaca was given the Youth Scholarship Award. Commissioner Anthony Peters noted that Menchaca, 17, has been volunteer-

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2009 Tryouts Feb. 14-15-21 Under 9-Under 14 Teams All tryouts at Boatwright Youth Sports Complex, adjacent to Cal State East Bay Concord campus

The Best Game in Town

Pre-register at www.diablofc.org

Feb. 14 - 15 - 21 Class 1 & Class 3 teams U9 & U10 BOYS & GIRLS Born between 8/01/99 - 7/31/02

9 - 10 AM

U11 BOYS & GIRLS Born between 8/01/98 - 7/31/99

10 - 11:30 AM

U12 BOYS & GIRLS Born between 8/1/97-7/31/98

12 - 1:30 PM

U13 BOYS & GIRLS Born between 8/1/96-7/31/97

1:30 - 3 PM

U14 BOYS & GIRLS Born between 8/1/95 - 7/31/96

3 - 4:30 PM

No charge to tryout Diablo FC is the area’s premier youth soccer club with competitive teams for boys and girls from Under 9 through Under 19. Headquartered here in Concord, Diablo FC takes pride in the development of its youngest players and the excellent performances of its players and team in all age groups. During our inaugural 2008 season the U17 boys won a third straight State Cup championship, then won the Western Regionals in Hawaii and advanced to the National Championship Final Four in Arkansas. Our U12 and U13 boys both won US Club Soccer Regional Championships in Boise, Idaho. The U13 boys and U15 girls were among 4 teams from our club advancing to the Super Y-League North American Championships in Florida. The U13 boys won the North American Championship and the U15 girls were finalists. Capping the year was the incredible performance of our U10 girls who won NorCal Premier League and State Cup against the top young teams in Northern California.

U15 - U19 Tryouts in April  www.diablofc.org 925 798-GOAL

ing since she was 8. “This is one of many awards Gabriela will receive in her lifetime,” he said. “She is a great example of what we would like our children to be when they get older.” Random Act of Kindness awards were also given to Hans Wiesendanger for his work on the meditation gardens at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church; the Independent Living Resource organization, which assists disabled people in achieving independence; and Marlene Weiss, who has worked as an advocate for people afflicted with mental illness.

February, 2009 Catalina Torres’ family accepted her Women Making a Difference Award posthumously. Torres worked as a volunteer for STAND! Against Domestic Violence, showing other survivors by her example that there is life after domestic violence. Following the ceremony, awardees, commission members and audience members went next door to a reception catered by students from the Mt. Diablo High School Serendipity Restaurant career training program. - Denisen Hartlove

Newsom, from page 4 fun at himself and his “whether you like it or not” comment about same-sex marriage, which the pro Prop. 8 group played up in their ads. Newsom said he doesn’t believe one person can solve the state’s problems. “I think it takes all of us. It takes a recognition that we are all in this together,” he said. “It takes a recognition for everyone to be a part of the solution and participate in the change that we all seek. To reconcile the fact that we can’t wait for someone else to solve our problems, we have to be participatory in solving all our problems.” “That’s the idea of democratizing participation in governing,

“ he added. “That’s what President Barack Obama is now inspiring. A lot of what I see changing in terms of people changing their own belief system and expectations of where we can go is the recognition that they need to be a part of it.” As far as California’s budget crisis, Newsom said he would do something “in stark contrast” to current efforts. “These guys need to take action,” he said. “What I don’t want to see is a raid on county money or a raid on city money, or precipitous Social Service cuts that will exacerbate problems that are supposed to solve problems.” - Mike Dunn

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

February, 2009

Page 7

Dan Ashley

what really

André and Tiffany Gensburger Tamara and Bob Steiner Publishers André Gensburger Editor-in-Chief [email protected] Tamara Steiner Associate Editor Chief Operating Officer [email protected] Pete Cruz Graphic Designer [email protected] Bev Britton Copy Editor Beth Neudell Display Advertising [email protected] Christina Scarlott Administration Dan Ashley

Special Correspondent [email protected]

Staff Writers Jeanna Ross [email protected] Mike Dunn [email protected] Denisen Hartlove [email protected] Lou Fancher [email protected] Mary Ellen Butler [email protected] We Remember Jill Ann Bedecarré 1950-2007 Her spirit is our muse

The Concordian, published in Clayton, CA, is a sister publication to The Clayton Pioneer. It is delivered by mail, free to approximately 34,000 residences with every business in Concord receiving one. LET US KNOW YOUR NEWS Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births, deaths, events, sports news, accomplishments, school news and more. These all weave into the fabric of a community. Please let us know of these important events by using the forms on our Website at www.myconcordian.com or email [email protected] or [email protected] These items are published free for Concord residents as space permits. Please visit the Website to find additional forms for submitting a press release, letter to the editor, story ideas and sports items. CONTACT US The Concordian, 6200 H Center Street, PO Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. Tel: (925) 673-5367 Fax: (925) 672-6580

matters

says about that final Christmas conversation. “We must have said I love you and miss you a dozen times each.” But Ben sent more than his love back home for Christmas; there was also a gift. Natalie collects elephant figurines, so Ben found a set online and had them shipped to Concord – three ceramic elephants, a mama, a papa and a baby. It was a small but thoughtful hould old acquaintance be have about the guys dating their gift to symbolize their young family forgot and never brought to daughter were raised with Ben,” he that, in just a few more days in a war mind?” That’s what the great adds. zone, would have one of those pieces Scottish poet Robert Burns asked more Flags, the kind with stars and taken away. You can only imagine how than 200 years ago, and now we sing it stripes, dozens of them, were raised on she will treasure those three little figon the 365th day of each year. Saturday, Jan. 10, when Army Pfc. urines. Should old acquaintances be forgot? Benjamin Tollefson was memorialized “I’ve been numb ever since,” Natalie Let’s hope not. in the East Bay and then buried as says. “I get panic attacks where my Where were you on New Year’s Eve? hundreds of mourners looked on in heart hurts. I’ve been frustrated and I was at work, writing and confused. Why can I sometimes preparing for the 11 o’clock newslaugh even though something horcast on ABC-7. That’s where I rible has happened?” like to be as we mark the start of It is a painful question from a a new year, as I’ve never cared young woman in grief who is being one jot about being at some party forced to confront a loss many or bar at the stroke of midnight. decades before she should have to. Nothing wrong with it – just not What really matters for Natalie my style. now, of course, is Mac – a smiling I was on the job this past Dec. little boy who still does not under31, and so was Army Pfc. stand what has happened to his Benjamin Tollefson of Concord. father. But only one of us made it home. “I worry about Mac feeling the In Iraq that last day of the same loss and the same pain that I year, there was no time to celeam feeling right now,” she says. brate for Ben and his unit; there But Natalie vows that her little boy Photo courtesy of Ed Hartley will grow up to know about his was important work to do. It’s the kind of work that happens in NATALIE, MAC AND BEN TOLLEFSON at Arrowhead Stadium in father and to be proud of him and Kansas City. Ben wanted to take Mac to his first NFL game a sand-covered war zone half way of what he gave to the country. around the world that many can So many men and women conappreciate, but few can understand. sadness and in respect. Ben came from tinue to risk all and, like Ben and thouBen understood. the battlefield in Ghazaliya, Iraq, to the sands of others, lose all in a conflict He signed up for the risks as well as cemetery in San Bruno in just 10 days that’s been pushed off the front pages the rewards. It just didn’t turn out the time. by an inauguration and a bad economy. way he planned. A mortar blast on New Natalie spoke with Ben just a few Elephants never forget and neither Year’s Eve took away another young days before he was killed. He called on should we. Bay Area life and, in so doing, gave Ben Christmas Day and she was so happy to the tragic distinction of being the final have a few moments with him on the Dan Ashley is an anchor at ABC-7 American fighter to die in 2008. In the phone because they had very few News and can be seen weeknights at 5, past year, 314 U.S. troops were killed; chances during the three months he 6 and 11 p.m. on ABC-7 and at 9 p.m. Ben was the last. was deployed to Iraq. on KOFY-TV20. “Babe,” that’s what Ben’s charming “He was soft on the phone,” Natalie wife Natalie always called him. She’s a 22-year-old wife turned widow, who must now raise their 9-month-old son without his father. “I made him laugh. Ben was always the one to make everyone else laugh. So it was special when I could make him laugh,” Natalie told me in our telephone conversation a few days after her husband was laid to rest. A sense of humor is a common description one gets talking with the people who knew Ben and who loved him. But even though he was a “goofball,” Ben’s father-in-law Ed Hartley also talks about a polite young man, raised well, and with solid values. “Even when they were just dating, Ben would always stand when Natalie’s mother came into the room”, Ed says with the pride of a father whose daughter married a good man. “None of those red flags that fathers

Never forgetting the sacrifices

“S

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

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February, 2009

Council opts for clustered village approach for Navy land

ity

By Denisen Hartlove

beat

The Concordian

F

Lowe’s shopping center takes shape in North Concord By Denisen Hartlove The Concordian

et’s build something together” was the theme of Lowe’s presentation to the Concord City Council. Following the presentation, the council approved preliminary plans for Lowe’s to build a shopping center in an area of Arnold Industrial Parkway described by more than one participant as “blighted.” But some questions remain unanswered. The process of approval has been a protracted one, involving negotiations between the city and successive owners of the property over use of the land. Previous incarnations included a WalMart store, which is no longer part of the plan approved by the council in December. The 334,112 sq. ft. complex is expected to include a 169,112 sq. ft. Lowe’s building with a 31,179 sq. ft. garden center. A 155,000 sq. ft. area is planned for another large, yet unnamed retailer, along with space for smaller shops and restaurants.

“L

According to Frank Abejo, Concord senior planner, construction is anticipated to start this spring, with the Lowe’s opening in time for the 2009 holiday season.

Advantages for the city Abejo listed a number of benefits the new center will offer – including “employment opportunities, retail options for an underserved area, property and sales tax revenues to fund city services and new community programs.” Ted Anderson, a Lowe’s representative who spoke at the meeting, said the new center would represent significant economic benefit to the city. “The tax dollars from Lowe’s will generate about $500,000 to hopefully support the community,” he said. “We represent a $40 million investment in the community – that’s land, that’s equipment, that’s construction and fees. We hope that will help the community. We’ll contribute more than $175,000 to help pay for much-needed school improvements.”

ollowing a four-year process involving 36 public meetings and eight workshops, the city took another step toward completion of a reuse plan for the Concord Naval Weapons Station before a vocal crowd at the Jan. 12 City Council meeting. The main order of business was a preliminary adoption of the Clustered Village Plan as the city’s preferred reuse option and approval of the Homeless Assistance Plans for submission to the Navy and the Department of Housing and Urban Development for further review. Michael Wright, the outgoing director of the Reuse Project, pointed out that the plan still isn’t final. Councilmember Helen Allen agreed. “We are not making a decision that is going to be in cement,” she said. “This is really in a way more conceptual than absolute.” While the Navy and the Department of Housing and Urban Development conduct further studies, the city will continue with its own studies including wildlife and public health issues and traffic flow reports.

Issues over unions While some city officials are excited at the prospect of money added to their strained coffers, not everyone is enthusiastic. Lowe’s has had past difficulties with labor unions relating to the building of its stores by non-union, nonlocal contractors. In September 2008, members of the Bricklayers and Allied Craft Workers union of Marquette Township in Michigan picketed a Lowe’s construction site. A local newspaper quoted union representative John Kleiber as saying: “I’m here fighting for the community, fighting to keep good paying jobs here at home instead of contractors coming from three to four hours away or coming from out of state.” Paul Cohen, the director of governmental and public relations for the Carpenters Union of Northern California, agrees. “It’s tough to buy a home and live in a place like Concord,” he said. “It’s disappointing when a firm like Lowe’s uses contractors to build

See Lowe’s, page 9

Looking to 2011 Wright doesn’t anticipate that the Navy will be ready to sell the land to developers any time soon. “It’s going to take them at least a year to do (the environmental impact study), and they’re not even going to start until spring,” he said. “If everything went absolutely perfectly for them, they might be ready to go by the fall of 2010. It’s more likely to be some time in 2011 or 2012.” Wright told the council that the Clustered Villages Plan offers several advantages, such as “more travel choices,” “more improved park land” and a “larger and stronger revenue stream from development, which allows for more public amenities and community facilities that were requested.” Proposed features include a 150-acre university campus, an employment training facility and a green belt extending from the North Concord BART station through the college campus and up into the open space, with room for bike paths and walking trails. A buffer zone between some existing housing and new development was also planned. It would be wide enough for walking trails, tennis courts, playgrounds and community gardens.

Audience speaks out

ARCHITECTURAL

RENDERING OF THE PROPOSED

LOWE’S

DESIGN FOR NORTH

CONCORD.

Rendering courtesy city of Concord

Karen Alschuler is a principal planning consultant with Perkins & Will, the urban planners brought in by the city to help develop the reuse plans. She brought a Power Point presentation showing pictures of what some of the

See Navy, page 9

February, 2009

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 9

Concord city manager pushes plan to avoid fiscal disaster By Denisen Hartlove and André Gensburger

bers, resulting in a potential bankruptcy.

The Concordian

Showing a budget presentation for fiscal year 2008-’09, Keen noted that the city had previously planned to earn $78.5 million for its general fund. “Revenues are declining across the board in all major revenue categories,” Keen said. This fiscal year’s sales tax losses are expected to be 16 percent more than had been anticipated in the 10-year plan and 23 percent over the plan projections in fiscal year 2009-’10. Business license taxes losses exceed projections by 13 percent and 16 percent respectively. “The current downturn is more severe and far-reaching than at any time in the last 80 years,” said Keen, who worries that the economy has not hit bottom yet. “My job is to manage what we do have and to keep us focused so that if we have less money, we’re spending it in the right way.” Because of the 10-year strategic planning, Concord has had an extended financial buffer zone, a luxury most cities do not have. Keen had noticed the numbers beginning to fall dramatically in early September 2008, after having just come on board Aug. 25. He put together a task force led by Assistant City Manager Valerie Barone. It was formed from employees throughout city offices, including management and non-management positions. Working together, they came up with a plan to help the city through the budget crisis. “Clearly the need to act is very obvious,” said Keen.

he Concord City Council convened a special meeting Jan. 22 to hear City Manager Dan Keen’s presentation on how the state’s financial woes are impacting the city’s budget. He also detailed his plan for how the city can weather the crisis. The city is expecting a $7.2 million shortfall even after its originally adjusted revenue projection for fiscal year 2008’09. Using the advanced projection methods the city has for determining its 10year budget plan, the potential for more massive deficits in subsequent years prompted Keen to take a closer look almost as soon as he took over the role of city manager last year. “The suddenness of our drop in revenues is somewhat stunning,” said Keen. “I think it is important to prepare right now for what we think we will be looking at next year. Time is on our side if we act quickly.”

A buffer zone

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Consumer slowdown With the bulk of city revenue coming from a percentage of sales and property taxes, a huge drop in consumer spending has had a direct impact on the city’s revenue. Auto sales, which account for about 20 percent of the sales tax revenue, have experienced catastrophic losses. Property taxes, another 29 percent of the city’s revenue, have taken a hit as the depressed real estate market has forced property reevaluations and lowered property tax amounts. Other revenue declines include hotel taxes, business license taxes and even the city’s investment earnings. “It all adds up,” Keen said. Councilmember Guy Bjerke agreed

Navy, from page 8 plan features would look like. Slides showed comparisons to the Commonwealth Mall in Boston, South Park Blocks in Portland, Ore., and the San Francisco panhandle. She described the Clustered Villages Plan as one “for healthy people and healthy ecosystems.” Following the presentations, 45 people spoke for up to three minutes each, expressing their views both in support or against the plan. Edi Barsone stood first and pointed out that the Clustered Villages Plan incorporates 1,140 units of low-density housing alone in addition to mediumand high-density housing. “We do not need thousands of cars in this area,” he said, suggesting that developers would turn the three proposed villages into “Lennar-, Shaw- and Seeno-villes.” Steve Weir, who was in the audience and has attended many of the reuse plan meetings, is in favor of the proposal. “I want to live there,” he said. “Someday, we’ll want a different housing arrangement, and I want to be there for it.” Eve Bach of Arc Ecology in San

Denisen Hartlove/The Concordian

CITY MANAGER DAN KEEN presents a plan of attack to the city council.

with Keen’s assessment. “I think every one of us is a little bit shocked at how quickly the world economy has fallen off a cliff,” he said. “To watch the auto dealers not be able to create financing and to sell cars, and to watch, literally, dealerships be sold and go out of business in our community … Even 6 months ago – who would have thunk it?” The city plans its budgets in 10-year increments to identify potential stumbling blocks before they reach crisis proportions. Part of that budgeting process has been a self-imposed requirement that there be a reserve fund amounting to 30 percent of the city’s operating expenditures. Councilmember Helen Allen described that reserve fund at the meeting as a “rainy day fund.” Without intervention, Keen noted that the fund, presently projected at 21 percent as of February, would drop to 6 percent in the next fiscal year. It could then take an even more precarious dive into double digit negative numFrancisco is an economist and planner whose work focuses on redevelopment of former military bases. She spoke during the public comment period as well. “What is important is to identify those uses that will be able to change with the market,” she said, pointing out that other cities’ proposals in the past focused on high-tech development. “But you must take care of the public benefits responsive to the needs of the City of Concord.” Other speakers raised concerns about traffic, the environmental impact of development and the possibility of more space for sports activities, including soccer fields and an ice skating rink. Finally, after 10 p.m., the council unanimously passed a motion to preliminarily approve the Clustered Villages Plan as the preferred alternative. Revisions included a larger buffer zone between some existing residential and new development, more flexibility in terms of commercial office space areas and sports facilities and the bisection of the university campus by the green belt. Councilmember Bill Shinn urged the public to continue to stay engaged. “It’s long-term,” he said of the project. “We’ve got to do what’s right, and we’ve got to do it together.”

Making early reductions Their plan, which was passed unanimously by the City Council at the meeting, calls for $4.09 million in cuts to the

budget, starting immediately for this fiscal year ending June 30. For subsequent years, the plan will also use portions of the reserve funds to make up for revenue shortfalls, although the plan should not deplete the reserves beyond 15 percent of the operating revenues. “A 15 percent reserve is a very healthy reserve,” said Keen, who has a 25-year career as a city manager. Immediate reductions include onetime cuts; a hiring freeze on a vacant lead police dispatcher position; elimination of some part-time and contract positions such as a contract K-9 trainer position; elimination of some vacant full-time positions, including a traffic signal technician and two police forensic specialists; and operational cuts, including elimination of the Street Smart program and a reduction of recruitment expenditures for city employees. Revenue enhancements will include an increase in what was diplomatically termed “traffic enforcement activities.” Asked if the budget crisis will affect the progress of the Concord Naval Weapons Station Reuse Program, Mayor Laura Hoffmeister said unequivocally, “It does not. We have funding coming through federal sources that reimburses us for the city’s cost in paying for those studies.” For costs not immediately reimbursed by the federal government, “we could obtain that reimbursement from the sale of the property or get reimbursed at a later time,” she added. Hoffmeister remained optimistic about the future. “Things will get better,” she said. “We have bumps in the road that we’re going through, but things do recover over time. Hang in there – we too will weather this and come out positive on the other side.”

Lowe’s, from page 8 their stores that don’t pay decent wages so that those folks can live locally, work locally, consume locally.” Home Depot, Lowe’s biggest competitor, isn’t worried. In response to an email inquiry, Home Depot spokeswoman Kathryn Gallagher noted that it has three stores in Concord offering everything from lumber and nails to help with interior design. She stated they are “confident that the majority of customers in the area will continue to shop our Concord stores.” Both retailers’ stock has dropped 40 percent in value in the past two years.

Questions about energy use Concord City Council member Mark Peterson believes that when Lowe’s is in communication with the city’s leadership, it is “above-board and cooperative.” Nonetheless, he noted that he only met with Lowe’s representatives once, when they wanted to ascertain his support for their development plans. At the council meeting, Peterson had concerns about Lowe’s energy-sav-

ing policies. “This is a big roof you have there,” he said of the building plans. “I would think that might be a great opportunity for you guys to use some solar yourself.” Anderson responded that the panels on the Antioch store had been a retrofitting project assisted by PG&E. “We can’t do that on all of our facilities. … We’re kind of right there with our budget,” he said. Peterson remains dubious and said in a phone interview that he plans to have staff review Lowe’s figures to “make sure their assertions are accurate.” “I think it says something about your company that you are willing to do something about global warming and energy consumption,” he said. John Montagh, a redevelopment and housing manager with the city’s Economic Development Department, didn’t see any down side to the arrival of a Lowe’s in Concord. “I think the community would like the opportunity for choice,” he said.

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 10

February, 2009

Education panel fears collapse of California schools under state budget deficit Voiding two-thirds vote, parcel tax could provide small windows of hope By André Gensburger The Concordian

Describing the dire state of education in California as beyond ideology and in a voting stranglehold, a fourmember education panel met Jan. 21 at a Walnut Creek Democratic Club gathering to explain the funding process and the direction needed to stop decimation. The panel was comprised of Paul Strange and Gary Eberhart, two of the five Mt. Diablo Unified School District Trustees; Craig Cheslog, district director for Assemblyman Tom Torlakson – who is seeking election as state superintendent of public education; and Kandi Lancaster, an eighth-grade teacher at Walnut Creek Intermediate School. They cited California’s twothirds voting requirement as a primary cause of stagnancy in effecting changes, as well as the desperate need for a complete change of approach to education funding. “We’re one of three states that require a two-thirds vote to pass a budget,” Cheslog said. The other two states are Arkansas and Rhode Island, both of which Cheslog quipped as not having “so much in common with us.” Within our region, districts are faced with additional discrepancies stemming from the amount of unrestricted funding available vs. the restricted funding created by legal mandates covering funding for specific items within the district budget – such as class-size reduction and construction requirements, money that cannot be assigned elsewhere. “So when you look at total budget numbers between districts,” Strange said, “you might get the wrong idea about what is available.” He compared Mt. Diablo’s unrestricted revenue per student of $6,189 to Acalanes’ unrestricted revenue per student of $7,775. “If we had that amount per year, we would have over $54 million more per year.” In addition, while enrollment is declining at Mt. Diablo, it is on the rise at San Ramon – additionally affecting funding numbers. “Not everyone is hurting at the same level,” Strange added. “We feed 30 percent of our students under free and reduced lunch programs compared to San Ramon’s 1.4 percent. We have more restrictive revenue than they do, so you cannot compare the total figures.”

All employees may receive layoff notices According to Eberhart, the district has been cutting the budget for five years. “We’ve cut over $30 million over

Andre’ Gensburger/The Concordian

PAT VON BEHREN OF THE DIABLO VALLEY DEMOCRATIC CLUB, PAUL STRANGE, GARY EBERHART, CRAIG CHESLOG AND KANDI LANCASTER explain California’s dire education finances

the last three years. Vice principals, librarians, custodians, teachers, special ed, food service, bus drivers,” he said. “We are cutting another $6.6 million, something the state told us we have to do.” Mid-year cuts have created havoc due to contracts in place that cannot be voided. “Ninety percent of our budget is payroll,” Eberhart said. “We hire prior to the school year and they are guaranteed a job until June.” Now the state may request nearly $11 million in additional cuts for the current school year. “How?” asked an exasperated Eberhart. “It’s gone. We’ve already spent the money.” “We are required by the county to budget according to the governor’s latest budget, or we may get a negative review,” Strange said. “Since all of our certificated employees are covered until June and our classified employees need 45 days notice, we can’t do anything.” Teachers need to get noticed by March 15 if there is a potential for having their job cut, Eberhart said. “Notices may be going to all our employees. We have to balance the budget or they (the state) takes over. The impact of all this over the next three years is that based on the government numbers, we’ll be in the red $55 million.” “Half the thousand districts in the state will be unable to operate,” Lancaster said. Eberhart questions how collective bargaining would play into the governor’s suggestion of cutting five days off the school year to save money. “It scares me that I know more about collective bargaining agreements than the governor of the state, and yet I have not read any media comments pointing this out,” he said.

Cuts hit the classrooms Items on the chopping block include high school sports, dance, music and other enrichment programs designed for a well-rounded education. “School

is supposed to be a rich educational experience,” Eberhart said. “You can’t have that without these programs. We don’t have counselors anymore. That falls on the teachers. The needs of the

students today are huge.” “Teachers are having to do more with less,” Lancaster said. “We are expected to achieve a certain level and under No Child Left Behind, that level keeps going up.” In addition, Lancaster believes that teachers are unable to differentiate the needs of the students in their classes. “In my class, I have four or five English language learners, three to five special education needs students and five or six gifted students in the GATE program. Every lesson I have to differentiate for each of these groups, including having to advance plan when one of my special needs students is visually impaired and needs to have the overheads blown up. In effect, I have a oneroom school house. “The students with Bs and Cs are being left behind,” she added. “That is one of teachers’ biggest concerns.” Due to cuts, Lancaster said she has

See Education, page 16

Today’s teens have eyes on the future A TEENAGE PERSPECTIVE

By Lauren Hogan Special to The Concordian

here are 305,604,454 people in the United States. One nation, separated by racism, religion and education, yet united by our lives and our loves. What will we find in the future – fear, hope, love, equality, happiness or disaster? As teen-agers, we are the future of our country. Although we didn’t have a voice in the election, we are deemed worthy of taking control of the wheel of a moving vehicle or being sent to war. So what goes through the mind of a teen as this great county attempts to right itself and stop the hemorrhaging of red ink, foreclosures and unemployment? Can President Barack Obama make a difference? “Both parties are too hard to please, and some of the decisions that he has to make end up forcing him to take one side – causing a conflict rather than a resolution,” notes Dustin, a sophomore from Berean Christian High School. Laura, another sophomore at Berean, believes Obama has the ability to run this country. “There will always be a schism in our nation’s moral system, and sadly, it is listed on a political map. Everything is red or blue,” she says. “Our country is divided, and I see the next few years as a chance for us all

T

to learn a few new things about togetherness and acceptance.” Others aren’t quite sure how Obama will be able to lead our country. “I think he has some really great aspirations and ambitions, but I feel like I need to see him put those ideas into action before I decide how I feel about him,” says Kate, a sophomore from Los Lomas High School. “Something that people have to keep in their minds, especially Republicans like myself, is that America voted him as president and we must accept that,” adds Tyler, a sophomore at Northgate High School. These days, teen-agers and adults alike hope for change and unity. During the Sept. 11 attacks, our country was one country. We wept together, prayed together and helped each other in a time of deep despair. It didn’t matter the color of your skin, political party, age or position in life. You were simply an American – and proud of it. Maybe it takes utter disaster or difficult times like these to wake up the American public. We have shown we have the ability to act as a single entity for the common good. I hope Obama can instill that passion back into our daily regime. All the students I interviewed hope for a better future – a change that will bring unity and that will spur trust in our fellow man, regardless of their age. After all, it’s our future, too.

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

February, 2009

Page 11

Walking through history can be a lot more fun in person By Suzette Wong Special to The Concordian

uring a “Walk Through California,” the third- and fourth-graders at Ygnacio Valley Christian School in Concord were entrenched in the state’s history for three hours. “I plan an approach to California social studies which includes interactive, hands-on learning,” said Gwen Larsen of Ygnacio Valley Christian School. “Through drama, dancing and games, we experienced the full sweep

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TEACHER GWEN LARSEN emcees the fourth grade Walk Through History with Alyssa Roach dressed in native attire

of California history that includes California Indians, missions, ranchos and the Gold Rush.” On Dec. 15, students memorized historical facts and dressed in period clothing as Chumash Indians, Spanish settlers, padres, Mexican vaqueros, pioneers, cowboys and gold miners. In this way, they learned while reliving exciting times. Students cheered on their teammates as they scored points. Later, they assembled a room-sized map of California and reviewed the state’s famous features and landmarks. “My favorite part was Going for Gold, when especially attentive students had a chance to choose a golden lollipop from a map of California,” said Taylor Wong, who was dressed as a gold miner. Alyssa Roach, in native Californian attire, liked “how all students were involved in the big puzzle at the end.” Emma Votaw, dressed as a cowgirl, especially enjoyed using the Time Travel Machine. Larsen takes her class on more than a dozen “field classes,” both on and off campus, throughout the school year in order to realize the full potential of this experience. “It had a lot of history for me to remember,” added Lucien Gerhardt, a Spanish soldier. “It was fun because we got to mine for gold. Instead of sitting to learn history, we had action.”

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Page 12

February, 2009

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n his “New Energy for America” plan, President Barack Obama outlines the creation of 5 million new jobs by “strategically investing $150 billion over the next 10 years to catalyze private efforts to build a clean energy future.” Plans include a million plug-in hybrid cars on the road by 2015 and ensuring that 10 percent of our electricity comes from renewable sources by 2012 and 25 percent by 2025. The goal is big, but not more than what economic experts say is possible. According to a study by the U.S. Conference of Mayors, a major shift to renewable energy and efficiency is expected to produce 4.2 million new environmentally friendly “green” jobs over the next three decades – not including 1.4 million green jobs in engineering, research, consulting and legal work. The study concludes that the largest number of job opportunities will likely be in the development of alternative transportation fuels and in the renewable power-generating sector. This will account for 10 percent of all new jobs. While ecopreneur is not in Webster’s Dictionary yet, it is only a matter of time before it becomes part of our nationwide business vocabulary. An ecopreneur is an entrepreneur who develops environmentally sound, green and sustainable business ventures, products and/or services. Ecopreneurs have already designed a decking product called “Prairie Fence” that is made of wheat grass and recycled plastic bottles. It lasts five times longer than wood and is maintenance-free for a lifetime. Other ecopreneurs have created LED lighting, window film that slashes energy use by 20 percent and a “smart box” that reduces wasted electricity, to name just a few. Although much of the hype around the “greening of America” has centered around celebrity venture capitalists and the new ecopreneur, experts agree that most of the new green jobs will be weatherizing homes and offices, installing solar panels and retrofitting factories and businesses with energy-efficient technologies. Van Jones, founder of Green for All in Oakland, says the green collar movement “is not an eco-elite, eco-chic movement for people who can afford to buy hybrid cars and shop at Whole Foods.” “The green economy to come is going to be a broad-shouldered, mass movement of American labor,” Jones noted. Interesting new alliances are already forming, like the United Steelworkers and the Sierra Club’s formation last year of the Blue Green Alliance to promote green job incentives and environmentally friendly trade policies. As the Silicon Valley became known as home to entrepreneurs of the micro-chip and computer technology, perhaps the Concord Naval Weapons Station, with a new four-year university, could become home to companies investing in creative, high-tech green business ventures.

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The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 13

Remembering Jerry FitzPatrick, ‘a giant of a man’ in Concord’s history man, FitzPatrick followed his duced me to 25 of our 30 biggest father’s lead by making his two donors over the years,” he noted. Special to The Concordian sons, Jerry Jr. and Dennis, inte“He was my best friend, a second gral parts of the dealership. Eight dad, mentor and model Catholic; he oncord lost “a giant of a man” members of the family currently found the best in everyone,” Sauers when Jerry FitzPatrick died Dec. work at FitzPatrick Chevrolet said while looking through albums and 30 at the age of 89. This shining Hummer. books from past Mt. Diablo Hospital local icon operated an auto dealership And the loyalty extends fund-raising events. “He helped us sucin the city for the past 60 years, was a beyond family. There are a dozen ceed at work and home.” supporter of youth sports, a civic people who have been working For FitzPatrick, booster, philanthere more than 20 years. The religion was an thropic man for all FitzPatrick style of doing busiimportant part of seasons and a lovness – “never compromise a prinhis life. Oakland ing husband, ciple for the sake of making a Bishop Allen father, grandfather profit” – attracted celebrities like Vigneron led the and friend. the Beach Boys, Ricky funeral service on FitzPatrick the St. Mary’s Henderson, Brian Boitano and Chevrolet has been College campus, Joe Morgan to buy vehicles from selling cars from where Jerry earned them. its adobe-style his bachelor’s Scott Singley has been a dealership on degree. FitzPatrick FitzPatrick employee for “only” 14 Diamond was a regent of St. years. “Jerry was a giant of a man Boulevard since whom it was my distinct pleasure to Mary’s, Holy 1978. This is its know for over 30 years,” Singley said. Names University third Concord “During the last two years of his life, I and Carondelet location after accompanied him to functions. It put High School in beginning on East him near so many people he loved and Concord. Street at Salvio JERRY IN OLD DEALERSHIP ON GALINDO ST. who loved him. Many times people As a businessand then moving to Galindo Street at Laguna. Frank FitzPatrick started the business in 1948 in the sleepy town of Concord, with a population of 6,009. He convinced his World War II veteran son to join him. Jerry, a Boalt Hall law school student, had recently married Dolores. The dealership and the FitzPatrick family grew with the suburban explosion of the ’50s and ’60s, as the city’s population topped 80,000 when the agency celebrated its 20th anniversary. Larry Sauers was a new Concord resident fund-raising in the eight Western states for Danny Thomas’ St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in 1981 when he met Jerry FitzPatrick. A couple years later, Jerry recruited Sauers to run the Mt. Diablo Hospital DOLORES AND JERRY FITZPATRICK at a Mt. Diablo Hospital Foundation fund-raising event flankFoundation. “Jerry probably introing Tippi Hedren and Connie Stevens

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JERRY FITZPATRICK greeted me by asking, ‘How is Jerry doing?’ “We couldn’t go anywhere without people knowing him or saying that they knew him through things their parents or grandparents had said about him,” Singley added. “I have never been associated with anybody of such widespread recognition who was also so humble.” Jerry was a lifelong family friend to Harry York, executive vice president of the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce for many years. “He sold my parents a new 1954 Bel Air and ’54 pickup and also sold my brother a ’57 Chevy pickup, all of which I wish we still had!” York noted. “Jerry was a friend and valued advisor.” Clare FitzPatrick, one of his eight grandchildren, said Jerry was rarely serious around the kids. “He mostly liked to joke around with his grandkids. His favorite joke was ‘Who was Stanley Dollar’s son? 50 cent!’ ” Grandson Jerry fondly tells a story about his grandfather’s business side: “I visited him when he was very ill and the first words out of his mouth were, ‘How many cars did we sell today?’ ”

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Page 14

Josie Van Fleet

the

real

deal Looking at single family vs. condo in home purchase or many home buyers, especially first-time buyers, one of the first things to consider is whether to purchase a condo or a single-family home. When buying a residence, personal preference will likely determine the answer and lifestyle considerations will be at the top of the list. The residents in a condominium development tend to watch out for one another, providing that extra peace of mind that comes from belonging to a close community. There is less work required for the upkeep of a condo, since the outside of your building and the grounds are usually maintained by the homeowners association.

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On the other hand, a single-family home is distinct, unique and separate from the other homes nearby. There’s a bit of land to call your own and you can change the color of your exterior walls if the spirit moves you. While it’s a personal choice, the crux of the matter is whether a condo will appreciate in value as rapidly as a single-family home. The old prejudice against condos, assuming they are weak substitutes for “real” homes, has long vanished, and buyers are more interested today in the benefits and amenities provided by each style of home. Furthermore, condo styles are as distinctive as single-family residences – with choices ranging from

February, 2009

the very affordable to the elaborate penthouse with spectacular views. The best idea is not to eliminate an option without looking into these very different lifestyles carefully. If you are already a homeowner and want to take advantage of the strong purchasing power in this current buyers’ market, a wellpriced condo or lower-end, singlefamily residence can provide good monthly positive cash flow. In the current buyers’ market, investment opportunities abound. And with the downturn in the economy and people losing their homes, there is a real need for good rental properties. Rental rates are sound and holding. Consider purchasing now, hold for awhile and trade up for a multiunit property when the market improves. This would be a good strategy to improve your monthly income and build wealth for your retirement years. A new year, a new president and a growing collective optimism bodes well for the future. Today’s opportunity is tomorrow’s prosperity.

Josie Van Fleet is a real estate broker with J. Rockcliff Realtors, Inc. Call her with questions or comments at (925) 280-6470 or email [email protected].

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February, 2009

restate eal

By Lynne French Windermere Lynne French & Associates We all know that the Concord area is a great place to live. If you have a home that you would like to see featured in The Concordian, call our office today.

indermere Lynne French & Associates is proud to present 20 Mt. Rainier Court, located in Dana Hills in the town of Clayton. You will feel right at home in this warm family home with 2,822 sq. ft., four bedrooms and 2.5 baths, and a gigantic bonus/game room with a spacious balcony that has a fantastic view of Mt. Diablo. Classy updates and upgrades

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THE ULTIMATE KITCHEN AWAITS, including granite, maple and abundant storage.

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Concord, Clayton Valley Highlands – 3BD/2BA w/fresh paint, hardwood floors. Private, flat lot. www.5546MarylandDrive.com $389,000

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THE HOME AT 20 MT. RAINIER COURT offers four bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a huge bonus/game room, and kitchen and master suite expansions.

replete with a gas grill and refrigerator housed in slate and granite. Beautiful redwoods and mature landscaping make the backyard a tranquil spot for watching the kids play or hosting a large party. The large, flat yard would handle a pool nicely. The side yards of this home present sought-after perks – extended RV parking on one side and a workshop/storage shed with electricity on the other. It’s perfect for the weekend warrior that camps, boats or loves to handle home improvements. The two-car garage is

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Clayton, Diablo Ridge – 2BD/2BA w/custom updates inc. paint, flooring, kitchen fixtures & bathrooms! www.3104CoyoteCircle.com $329,980

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take this home a step beyond most listings in Dana Hills, giving it “custom home” status with touches that will impress the most finicky buyer. The home greets you with a fabulous living room that has vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors and fresh decorator paint that sets off casings, baseboards and crown moldings for a tidy and inviting style. Adjacent is a formal dining room with contemporary paint and glowing chandelier. Gorgeous French doors lead to the backyard and are flanked by sleek casings, adding a touch of elegance. The expanded gourmet kitchen is a cook’s dream. It offers a huge prep island and breakfast bar topped with slab granite. Abundant, sleek maple cabinetry along with double ovens and an enormous pantry make this kitchen topnotch for organization. The glass doors on the rear shelves capture the light from the bay-style windows and light up the room. This is the perfect spot for an evening of epicurean experimentation. The family room is sharp and spacious and has a sliding dual-pane door out to the sprawling patio. This pressed concrete patio offers an outdoor kitchen

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Clayton, Dana Hills – Expanded kitchen & master suite, 4BD/2.5BA. Outdoor kitchen & RV parking. www.20MtRainierCourt.com

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finished and will accommodate your vehicles with room to spare. The location of Mt. Rainier is unbeatable. Nestled on a private court with few neighbors, this is the best Dana Hills has to offer – with easy access to downtown and Mt. Diablo out your door. You will love entertaining your family and friends in this well-maintained, custom home.

Give Lynne French a call today at 672-8787 to preview or if you would like more information.

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Concord, Cowell – Remodeled to nearly 3,500 s.f., this 5+BD/3BA enhances daily living & offers HUGE flat lot. www.KaskiLane.com $689,000

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The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

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y r t s i nt h e D ouc y t l i g m n Fa cari

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The banks own a number of homes in the area. Many of them will be fixers. If you are considering buying and would like to tour bank owned properties go to www.tourbankowned.com or call 800-834-9096 Take advantage of this rare market and buy a house now while the prices are low

Richard Lueck 4691 Clayton Rd Ste A, Concord Phone: (925) 465-9554 Email: [email protected]

www.whatisourhomeworth.biz ‘Pay for college without going broke’ workshop Walnut Creek firm founders, teach free workshops helping families save thousands Walnut Creek – East Bay parents, who plan to send their child to college in the next few years, but aren’t quite sure how to pay for it can now rest a little easier. Sean Connors & Alexis Alekna founders of College Planning Specialists in Walnut Creek are educating parents in the community about what to do to pay the least amount for their child or multiple children’s education. ‘It’s really sad, but most parents we talk to have done really well financially, but never found the time to save for college, and now they’re facing a bill of $15,000$50,000 per year, and they don’t know who to turn to,’ Connors says. ‘Plus, most families never even bother applying for aid because they feel they make too much money or listen to the wrong people. Where now we are seeing families with a solid sixfigure income cut college costs by $30,000.’ College Planning Specialists would know, because their company has helped thousands of families ranging from single parents to corporate CEO’s and are the foremost authority that news professionals turn to for answers on college and financial aid. ‘My

Robert H. Waldman, D.D.S.

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family had no idea how the system worked. Even with a baseball scholarship I graduated with $50k in loans and my parents accumulated debt from my college as well,’ says Connors. ‘That’s why I am excited to share this information with families, helping them avoid the same pitfalls and mistakes that me & my family couldn’t.’ Alekna, the financial specialist, feels the planning process needs to start early. ‘Simply put, we show parents the truth that they aren’t hearing anywhere else about how the college process really works. We show them how they can get their child into a the ‘best-fit’ school easily and help them pick a school that will suit them…both academically and financially, saving them thousands of dollars in the process.” Contra Costa County parents will have two opportunities to hear Sean & Alexis speak. They are teaching their class ‘Receiving Maximum Money for College!’ on the 27th of January at the Oak Hill Park CC in Danville and February 3rd at the Ygnacio Valley Library in Walnut Creek. ‘Our class will reveal astonishing ways to beat the high cost of

college that educated parents across the country are using to pay almost nothing for college. In fact, hundreds who have attended these workshops have discovered new secrets and strategies to send their children to schools they never thought they could afford,’ Alekna grins. Topics will also include why private scholarships and recently started 529 plans can be a waste of time, how to double or even triple the amount of free money you receive from each school. As well as how to avoid the one mistake that will kill your chances of getting any money at all, that almost every other parent will make this year. ‘They will learn a lot about this process and I do my best to make the class fun,’ Connors says. Don’t forget: the class is totally free, but seats are limited, and every month they turn away many families due to high demand. It’s easy to register but it’s important to do so soon, especially due to the overwhelming response from the last 2 months workshops. You can RSVP for you and your family by visiting them online at www.CollegeFundsNow.com or by calling (888) 210-2606 today.

February, 2009

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his year, you may want to consider getting your valentine something to smile about: whiter

teeth. People have been whitening teeth for more than 100 years. The best current products contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamine peroxide or a combination of both. I have seen successful results with all of the following systems. Over-the-counter home kits are the least expensive. They are formulated on the mild side, so you may need to buy more than one kit. They come with bleaching strips or trays. The strips are difficult for some people to manipulate and most trays are “one size fits all.” An in-office bleaching is the most expensive. You will spend 30 minutes to an hour in the dental chair. These are the strongest systems, and postoperative tooth sensitivity is well-documented. Depending on the results,

many people need to return for additional sessions or continue to bleach with home kits. The most successful system I have found is at-home bleaching prescribed and dispensed by a dentist. This system uses custom-made bleaching trays or dual-purpose mouthguards with peroxide-based products. To me, this is the best of all worlds because you and your dentist discuss and decide what strength bleach is best for your teeth. Your dentist makes you a custom appliance for your bleaching treatment. Then, you bleach your teeth to your desired whiteness. Remember, the best way to keep your smile healthy and bright is to swish, floss and brush everyday and visit your dentist regularly. Contact Robert H. Waldman, D.D.S. at 925-682-6940, by email at [email protected] or visit www.roberthwaldmandds.com

Education, from page 10 seven classroom lights that are out and her trash does not get emptied. “School libraries are now free daycare before and after school with up to 95 kids monitored by one librarian. Students are at the school before I get there in the morning and late into the day,” she noted. “We have a whole load of baggage to deal with from dysfunctional families to the transient population caused by the economy and people changing residences. We have one nurse for the whole district, so I have to step in.” Because funding is based on warm bodies in seats during attendance, revenue is lost when students have morning doctor appointments and are not present for attendance. Parents who take vacations outside of district holiday times also create a loss in revenue. While some parents take advantage of independent study plans during an absence of five days or more, many are gone for a shorter time than the requirement for funding.

Finding long-term solutions At the district level, there have been discussions of a parcel tax to generate revenue. Based on a poll, Strange believes a parcel tax could only be in the $100-$200 range, resulting in $7.5-$15 million in revenue. Though it could stem the losses, he said it does little to increase overall funding. For that, new legislation would be required again facing the obstacle of a twothirds vote to be approved.

“We are cutting bone and marrow right now,” Cheslog stated. Despite having the most stringent education standards in the country, he said the state ranks 47th in the nation and is well on its way to last place “unless we fix the two-thirds vote requirement.” Calling the state budget process “designed to fail,” he added: “Are we really surprised at where we are at?” On his Website, Torlakson says the state can’t be shortsighted and “simply cut our way out of the budget hole.” “Education is economic stimulus,” he said. “We will only turn our economy around by providing a skilled workforce that allows California to compete.” Cheslog believes that if there is to be any progress toward finding solutions to the budget crisis, it lies in removing the two-thirds rule – a task that itself requires a two-third vote to approve. Ellis Goldberg, president of the TriValley Democratic Club, believes there is a push to remove the two-thirds voting requirement. “This is the time to strike,” he said. “I propose a petition. We need 1.1 million signatures. Right now, we are at our strongest point to succeed. We took back our country; it’s time to take back our state.” For more information on this issue, visit www.mdusd.net, www.tomtorlakson.com, www.cde.ca.gov or www.dvdems.org.

February, 2009

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 17

Volunteers find fulfillment in ‘random acts’ By Denisen Hartlove The Concordian

or some, the phrase “practice random acts of kindness and senseless beauty” is just another bumper sticker on the commute to work each day. But to Hans Wiesendanger, Marlene Weiss and the people at the Independent Living Resource organization, it is a way of life. These three were recently recognized by the Concord Human Relations Commission and given Random Acts of Kindness awards as examples of the

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setting up an apartment with several other people in a step toward achieving independence and stability. Instead of receiving support from the community, however, the woman’s efforts were thwarted by people with a NIMBY (not in my back yard) philosophy. “A person can have an illness of the body and it’s fine, but an illness of the brain is something different, I think,” she said. Weiss, who helped govern the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Contra Costa County, has seen her efforts contribute to making the world a more navigable place for people suffering from these disabling conditions.

The road to independence

MARLENE WEISS HAS BEEN A TIRELESS crusader for those with mental illness.

road we should all follow. Janis Hoyt, chair of the commission, said the three awardees routinely give “those types of things that make our community special.” Weiss learned of her son’s diagnosis of schizophrenia in 1981. Since then, she has worked tirelessly for the rights of those struggling with mental illness. “There’s so much stigma attached to mental illness,” Weiss said upon accepting her award. She recalled assisting one woman in

Gil Cervantez accepted the award on behalf of the Independent Living Resource. According to the California State Department of Rehabilitation, four out of five people will become disabled or have a close friend or family member become disabled in their lifetimes. Cervantez, the interim executive director, described the group’s mission as “providing services to the disabled community, in hopes of making them better able to live in the world today.” As an example, he described a client who had recently lost her vision. The group sent a blind volunteer to her home to show her “what services are available, what she can do and how to get a seeing-eye dog.” “Globally, we are all facing difficult challenges. These people have difficult challenges on a daily basis,” he said.

tend what Rev. Richard Mangini describes as “a place of refreshment and spiritual peace.” The garden is overflowing with flowering plants, bushes and 267 different varieties of roses. Spread throughout are small memorial plaques and shrines, including one for Wiesendanger’s wife, Elizabeth, who died in late 2007. “In my country, there are cemeteries which are right behind the churches,” said Wiesendanger, who came from Switzerland in 1956. “Over here, our cemeteries are maintained 40 miles from the houses. This to me is the next best thing for our parishioners to have a memorial plant in the garden of our church.” The meditation and memorial garden isn’t limited to parishioners. “It’s for anyone who would like to come,” said Cartan, who founded the gardens. “No fences, no gates – it’s open all the time.” Parents bring children, students study on one of the many benches and more than one bride has had HANS WIESENDANGER HAS TURNED a gardening hobby her picture taken in the garden’s into a full time task at St. Bonaventure gazebo. “We all need calm sometimes,” The awardees, however, see the said Wiesendanger. “When you go work they do on behalf of others as its through that garden, it gives you that – own reward. it gives you tranquility.” “Frown at the world and it frowns The Human Relations Commission back. Smile at the world and it smiles awards are in their 22nd year. “We’re back at you,” said Wiesendanger. always amazed that we don’t do this Cervantez agrees. “The success stomore often,” Hoyt said. “We always ries don’t become mundane at all. They find wonderful people who give of their brighten our lives on a daily basis.” time.”

Finding peace Wiesendanger had recently retired from his work as a bookbinder in 1992 when he answered an ad in the newsletter at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Concord for help working on the church gardens. What started as a hobby 17 years ago has blossomed into a full-time task. “When I volunteered here, I just couldn’t stop!” he said with a laugh. Wiesendanger, along with his cohort Bob Cartan and a team of volunteers,

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ith Valentine’s Day approaching, what better way to show your loved ones you care than by making them a delicious masterpiece with local produce from the farmers market. Strawberries are a perfect fit for Valentine’s Day, and Ortiz Farms brings them each week for you to enjoy. Strawberries pack a powerful nutritional punch, as well as being the favorite berry in the United States. They’re full of antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C and potassium, not to mention that they taste delicious. Strawberries are picked at their peak and do not ripen after harvesting, so select berries that are bright

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red and have a natural sheen with fresh-looking green caps. Avoid strawberries with green or white tips. Store strawberries in the refrigerator in a single layer on a paper towel and in a moisture-proof container. Eat them within 48 to 72 hours. Chocolate-dipped strawberries are synonymous with romance and Valentine’s Day, so try this recipe from the California Strawberry Commission. Visit www.pcfma.com for other great recipe ideas for that special meal. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries 12 California strawberries, washed and dried 8 oz. dark chocolate 4 oz. white chocolate 1 T. flavored liquor (optional) Variations: shredded toasted coconut

See Valentine, page 19

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The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

February, 2009

Page 19

Mayor Laura M. Hoffmeister

o pen office

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s the national mantra of “Together We Can” comes forth from the new administration, it seems to me that the city of Concord, its residents, businesses, labor, environmental and education interests have had that mission statement in mind since we embarked on the Naval Weapons Station Reuse Process some 2½ years ago. At the Jan. 12 meeting, the City Council approved the reuse vision preferred plan for the base called “Clustered Villages.” This marks completion of a major step in the long reuse planning process. To get to this step was no easy feat. Many individuals and organizations put in hundreds of volunteer hours to help create the plan. I would like to thank the members of the Citizen Advisory Committee: Dick Allen, Jimmy Araujo, Paul Elliott, Greg Enholm, Jason Hadnot, Scott Hein, Daniel C. Helix, John Hemm, Patricia Howlett, Ana Maria Korve, Beverly Lane, Melvin Lee, John Mercurio, Rosanne Nieto, Anna Rikkelman, William Washington, Dirk Wentling and Ellen Williams. This

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Valentine, from page 18 toasted nuts crushed candy cane puffed rice cereal granola Melt the dark chocolate in a bowl set over a small pot of simmering water. Add liquor, if desired. In a separate bowl, melt the white chocolate. Holding the strawberry by the crown, dip the strawberry into the dark chocolate. Lay strawberry on parchment paper. Lightly drizzle white chocolate over the dark chocolate and let set. Or, after dipping into dark chocolate, dip berry immediately into one of the above variations. Lay on parchment paper to set. Note: Berries must be refrigerated and eaten within a day. Morris is with the Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association. The Concord farmers market is 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays at Todos Santos Plaza. Call 800-949-FARM for information.

cross-section of our community conducted more than 40 public meetings, outreach sessions and workshops. They spent countless hours at public meetings, reviewed technical information and listened and responded to community input. When we embarked on this process, many thought it would be impossible to have diverse groups achieve consensus on a preferred vision. The City Council believed that with an open public process, together we can. And together we did. The council held public workshops to develop overall principals, key ones being that the plan be balanced, financially viable and not financially impacting to the existing community. These principals assisted the citizens committee that recommended a reuse plan to the city. After initially reviewing 11 citizen-created reuse visions, the committee conducted more studies and gathered more public input. They narrowed it down to nine vision plans, then seven, then four, then two. Each time, the citizens committee carefully considered all the technical information and public comments and tried to take the best of each of the plans – finally crafting the Clustered Villages as the final preferred reuse plan for the base. Knowing that you can never achieve complete satisfaction of

everyone’s interest, I was amazed how many individuals and interest groups supported the Clustered Villages vision plan at the council meeting. That came about because many interest groups worked together – even those that often have different objectives. Business, education, neighborhood groups, environmental groups and labor organizations worked together to come to consensus on many of the vision plans. Historically, these types of groups work independently and present their comments, often conflicting with each other, and the City Council ends up trying to decide compromises. Because these groups put differences aside and came together early on, together we can, and together we did. I am very proud to represent and lead Concord with this type of community cooperation. This important milestone will be the foundation for the remaining steps in the project. It will be a long process, but if interested individuals and groups continue to work together, I know that we can succeed in ensuring the Clustered Villages is a high quality and innovative plan that benefits future generations. Send your comments and concerns to Laura Hoffmeister, the City Council or city staff at [email protected].

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The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 20

February, 2009

l sports ocal

Terrapins hope practice makes perfect By Mary Ellen Butler

Natalie Coughlin did a record-setting six times at the 2008 Beijing Games. The Concordian Such achievements are within tantalthough it’s the middle of winlizing reach of Kasey Carlson and ter, a bunch of local teens are Chelsea Chenault, two of the club’s curshowing up at a cold water pool rent crop of elite athletes. on dark mornings and late afternoons Carlson, a 17-year-old junior at Las in an effort to qualiLomas High fy for regional, School in Walnut national and interCreek, was named national swim to this year’s meets this year and Junior Pan Pacific beyond. Team by USA As members of Swimming, the the renowned sport’s national Terrapin Swim governing body. Club, the young She competed in people gather at the Guam Jan. 8-12 Concord against members Community Pool on of 14 other Cowell Road for rigInternational orous workouts Swimming twice a day during Federation groups. the week. They do She won a bronze laps from 5-7 a.m. medal in the 50Then it’s off to meter freestyle school, only to and a gold medal return to the pool as part of the from 4-6 p.m. for American 400more instruction. meter medley relay They go home long KASEY CARLSON 17 LEFT AND CHELSEA CHENAULT team, on which she after the sun’s gone 14 at Terrapin swim practice swam the breastdown. stroke. According to head coach Paul Carlson enjoys traveling abroad with Stafford, the tough training teaches national squads and to meets closer to competitive swimmers time managehome with the Terrapins. At 6-1 and ment, goal-setting and how to lead a with broad shoulders, long limbs and a healthy lifestyle. Like any sport, he lengthy resume of winning times, adds, swimming also offers a producCarlson will likely get the attention of tive alternative for teens. some Pac 10 schools. Kids who participate in the “I won’t swim my whole life,” she Terrapins’ daily regimen can develop says, “so I see swimming as a way to self-esteem, self-reliance, discipline, get to college and college as a way to confidence, respect for others and team get to a good job.” pride. Then, they can build a work Chenault, 14, has been selected by ethic, learn leadership skills, travel the USA Swimming for the National Junior world and eventually succeed in higher Team that will compete at the Mel education. Zajac Invitational Meet in May in The most challenging possibilities are Vancouver, B.C. An eighth-grader at to advance to national or international Walnut Creek Intermediate School, she caliber competition, winning everything is already 5’9½”. from college scholarships to Olympic “I’ve been swimming since I was gold medals – as Terrapin alumna about 4, but I began to feel competitive

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around age 10,” Chenault says. Starting with short races, she’s now moving up to longer distances. “At first, it was hard, but as I build endurance, I’m beginning to enjoy it,” she says of the 200-meter and 400meter events. In practice, she’s up to 1,000 yards now. “I can go for a half-hour without stopping.” Carlson and Chenault hope to follow a long line of Terrapins who have ridden the wave into higher education. Former or current club members are attending Princeton, Brown, Auburn, Hawaii, Stanford and the University of Southern California, says Stafford. Terrapin alumni Sean Mahoney and Lauren Rogers swim for UC Berkeley

and will compete in the 2009 World University Games in Belgrade, Serbia, this summer. With a long record of accomplishment, the Concord-based Terrapin organization rates highly among the 2,800 swim clubs in the nation, says Bill Krumm, sport development consultant for USA Swimming. Having earned a gold ranking from the governing body (on a scale of gold, silver and bronze), the club “is one of the top programs in the country,” says Krumm. Which must it worth the momentary shock of jumping into a cold pool on a chilly winter’s morning. For more information, visit www.terrapinswim.com.

CV athletics bank on crab feed as a major fund-raiser By Mike Dunn The Concordian

were seen posing with one of their prizes, and Debbie Gonsalves handed out cupcakes that she had won. Booster president Bob Banks said he’s expecting to raise about $20,000, although final figures won’t be known for a few weeks.

he Clayton Valley Athletic Booster Club held its 15th annual crab feed and auction on Jan. 10 at Centre Concord. The event is the group’s largest and most successful fund-raiser, with proceeds going directly to Clayton Valley High athletics. With a decimated district budget, this year’s event was especially important. More than 350 people enjoyed the crab feed, cake auction, silent auction and dancing – which coincided with the school’s 50th anniversary. CVHS Athletic Director Pat Middendorf BOB AND PAULINE RALSTON, LEFT, TALK upcoming alumni baseball game. and her husband Jim

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February, 2009

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THE CARNEGIE LIBRARY

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CONCORD

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oncord’s first library was in the center of Todos Santos Plaza. It was a quaint little building built in 1917 with $2,500 from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation. However, a mass meeting was called to collect books and open a reading room in October 1906. The Firemen’s Hall served as the first gathering place for 62 donated books. On Nov. 13, 1906, a library board was elected and appointed Elizabeth Skinner as librarian. Money to buy new books was raised through scheduled community entertainment. The owner of the popular new Nickelodeon donated half of each Monday night’s profits to the library. By 1913, more room was needed, so the library was moved to the Randall Building. Three years later, they had 301 books and 239 borrowers so they moved once again to the Foskett and Elworthy Building. Concord joined the county library system right away. It took just four years for the community to realize that they needed a genuine library. The library in the plaza was maintained by a joint effort of city and county, with the city paying monthly utilities bills and the county providing books and periodicals, taking care of repairs and paying the staff. That was all well and good until the growth spurt Concord had in the 1950s. The Concord Branch of the American Association of University Women organized a Friends of the Library chapter, which formed a nonprofit Concord Library League.

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1917

Through the league’s awareness programs and the persuasion of head librarian Bethel R. Morris, the City Council agreed in 1958 to lease-purchase the construction of the new library building on the Parkside-Salvio corner. When the building was complete, there was a week-long dedication ceremony. Fifteen years later, the $275,000 mortgage was burned in front of local cable television. The library still stands today, with 80,000 books, 53,294 borrowers (now called customers) and a circulation of 302,000 – meaning materials checked out. Eight-year head librarian Maureen Kilmurray reports there was renovation four years ago. She hopes that when the Navy land is developed, the library will join with Cal State East Bay to create a new library for Concord. The Historical Society is available for tours of our historic downtown, lectures on any subject and any information you may need. Call the resource center at 827-3380 for information. The society’s next event is a Lunch Lecture at Legends, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. March 7. Sister Mary Grace will talk about the transformation of the Adobe Building. This is a members-only event, with 50 seats available. The annual members dinner is March 19 at Oakhurst Country Club. Mark the calendar for 1-4 p.m. April 5 for our community Ice Cream Social at the Galindo House and a big fund-raising event on Sept. 19, a wine tasting at the Adobe Building.



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The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 22

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February, 2009

Doug Prutton

legal

briefs Varied laws cover pregnant employees regnancy, childbirth and caring unpaid leave following the birth of the for a newborn are joyous events child. This can be taken in addition for most parents, but they can to, and after, the four months of pregwreak havoc at work. Employers have nancy disability leave. However, to deal with the loss of sometimes key CFRA leave is only available if the employees for long stretches of time, employee has worked for the employand employees worry about losing er for more than one year and has their jobs and benefits – or at least worked at least 1,250 hours in the about surviving on a reduced income year before the leave starts. for awhile. Federal and state law forbids A number of different laws can employment discrimination on the come into play. The California basis of pregnancy. These laws essenPregnancy Disability Leave Law basi- tially provide that employers must cally provides an treat employees with employee with job pregnancy disabiliprotection for up to “Job protection is not ties similar to how four months of available if the employ- they treat other disunpaid leave for abled employees – pregnancy, child- ee would have lost her except for work birth or a related job anyway, such as injuries, which can medical condition, if be treated differenther doctor certifies through layoffs, or if ly. Furthermore, that she is disabled. keeping the job open laws that require This leave can be to prowould “substantially employers taken in one block of vide reasonable the accommodations for time or intermittent- undermine ly, but it only applies employer’s ability to disabled employees to employers with may require accomfive or more employ- operate the business modations for a ees. safely and efficiently.” pregnant employee. The pregnant This article just employee may be skims the surface of able to receive compensation during the laws involving pregnant employthe leave by using sick leave or vaca- ees, or for that matter, employees tion time, or by tapping into disabili- whose spouses are pregnant. ty plans that the employer may pro- Employers should proceed with great vide. Job protection is not available if caution when taking any employment the employee would have lost her job action against a pregnant employee, anyway, such as through layoffs, or if especially if discharge of the employkeeping the job open would “substan- ee is contemplated. tially undermine the employer’s ability to operate the business safely and Doug Prutton is an attorney in efficiently.” The California Family Rights Act Concord. Contact him at (CFRA) provides up to 12 weeks of (925) 677-5080.

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The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

February, 2009

Page 23

Colleen Elwy

living

history

Shirley Jowise: bicycling through history ven at age 84, Shirley Jowise is spunky and ready for adventure. When you meet her, you can’t help but feel like you’ve run into an old friend. Shirley has plenty to share, but when asked about her personal milestones, she easily comes up with one that stands out in her mind. Following WWII, Shirley recalls the historic Yalta Conference between Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin – where the three leaders tried to establish an agenda for governing post-war Germany and surrounding areas. Cities such as Salzburg and Vienna became four-power cities that had been divided by Stalin following the conference. “It was a very controversial time and nobody here in the United States could figure out why Roosevelt let them do that to Austria,” states Shirley. She lived in Austria several years later with her husband Peter. They opted to stay after Peter completed his Fulbright scholarship. “We didn’t have much money, so we decided to buy two bicycles and bike from Salzburg to Vienna,” says Shirley. “We came to the area at the edge of Salzburg and I was wearing lederhosen, which was quite uncommon for women to be wearing at the time. The Russian soldiers, who were only 16 and 17 years old, thought

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that we were Austrian and let us go to the checkpoint. But when they found out we were American, the bar came down across the road like that,” she says, snapping her fingers. Eventually, they were allowed to go through with their bikes but were warned to stay on that road and not wander off. The road was much harder to ride than what they had seen by train in previous trips, and Shirley became exhausted. “The sun was setting and I told Peter, ‘You see that tree over there. I don’t care if the Russians take me away, but I am going to go there and rest,’ ” Shirley recalls. “Around 20 minutes later, we were lying out on some hay and all of a sudden we heard someone on a bullhorn and there was an American jeep. He asked us if we were Peter and Shirley Jowise and when we said yes, he yelled for us to get over there and get the bikes on the jeep right away.” Shirley and Peter later found out that the American soldiers ran checks to make sure the people who came through in Salzburg made it out to the other side in Vienna. “Stalin was very stubborn about those kinds of things and you didn’t know what could happen. They told us to make sure we stayed out of the Russian areas,”

Photo courtesy of Shirley Jowise

Shirley and Peter Jowise at Stephen’s Dome in Vienna, Austria, after the war. Shirley continues. “It was something I will never forget.” Shirley attributes her physical stamina on those biking trips, along with other sports in her lifetime, with helping her during a later bout with polio. She was pregnant when she was diagnosed and doctors told her that they had never seen a pregnant woman and her baby make it through with polio. “Even though my voice has been affected by it and I have trouble with my whole right side, I know I was blessed with how well I did,” Shirley

says with a smile. She has four children and eight grandchildren. She earned her bachelor of arts degree after her children were grown. She has been an artist in many ways all her life, and her apartment is adorned with a variety of paintings and drawings that reflect her energetic and colorful life. “But my biggest achievement in life,” says a beaming Shirley, “no contest about it, are my children.” Please contact Colleen Elwy at 6729565 or at [email protected].

Police dispatchers’ act of generosity helps make a happy Christmas for local family By André Gensburger The Concordian

olice dispatchers serving both Clayton and Concord made a difference in the lives of the Groebner family of Clayton with a Christmas gift to help the family through some difficult times. Katie Grace Groebner, 6, suffers from pulmonary hypertension and had recently been rushed to the hospital due to an infection in the line feeding medication directly to her heart. Tracey Downing, the police dispatcher who spearheaded the effort to raise money for the Groebner family for Christmas explained their motivation. “I saw the article on Claycord.com about Kate Grace and I was amazed by the story of Katie Grace, as well as what the

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André Gensburger/The Concordian

TRACEY DOWNING is one of the Concord Police dispatchers who spearheaded the effort to give Katie Grace Groebner a special Christmas.

people of Clayton were doing.” Downing explained that the police department usually works with the city to adopt a family in need over the holidays, however with the Groebner family they wanted to do more. “We all talked about it together,” Downing added, “and decided to do something for her.” The “something” mentioned was an envelope of gift cards to different stores, one for Katie Grace, one for her sister Savanha, and one for the family as a whole. “The girls got cards to the Limited Too stores,” Kathy Groebner, Katie Grace’s mother, reported. “They love to play dress up. Tracey had contacted me while we were still in the hospital. That was so nice of them to do that. The girls were happy.” In addition to the gift cards, the girls

also received new bicycles from the fire department, and had a visit from Santa Claus while still in the hospital. Kathy Groebner is grateful for all the support given to her family from the community. “I’m glad that we were able to do this,” Downing said of the dispatcher’s gift. “Katie Grace was the perfect person for it.” Katie Grace was released from the hospital shortly before Christmas, although she had to return there Christmas Eve due to a blockage in the temporary medication line. She returns to Stanford for a new Broviac medication line Jan. 15 and the family hopes that the ongoing treatments will keep Katie Grace’s pulmonary pressure lowered.

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 24

Ilana Halperin

pets

vets

and

Start early for well-socialized puppies veryone wants their dog to be confident and well-adjusted. While there are always personality differences among dogs, just as some people are more shy or anxious than others, there is also a lot that you can do to make your pup the best dog he or she can be. If you breed dogs or raise an orphan or young pup, this training can begin at birth. Studies have shown that puppies handled from birth to five weeks of age are more confident and social and learn faster than those who are not handled. Since a newborn dog does not have a complete immune system, be sure to wash your hands and keep the puppy in a clean environment. Then it’s as simple as petting them, picking them up and holding them and talking to them. The next phase is primary socialization. This period is from 3-12 weeks of age. The puppy is especially open to

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learning around 6-8 weeks. After 12 weeks, a puppy who has not been wellsocialized tends to develop fears when faced with new individuals or situations. During the primary socialization phase, the puppy forms attachments to other dogs and to individuals of other species (you!). This is a critical time in your puppy’s development and helps determine whether the dog will develop healthy social attachments and confidence in a group and while alone. This prevents problems such as aggression and separation anxiety. Of course, socialization does not end at 12 weeks, and puppies can regress if they do not receive continued socialization through adulthood.

A variety of experiences In order for dogs to develop healthy interactions with other dogs, they should stay with their mother and littermates until 6 to 8 weeks of age if possible. Once you take the new puppy

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home, it should continue to interact and play with other dogs regularly. Most puppies, especially if brought to a new home before they are 12 weeks old, adapt easily to their newfound family members and to their new daily routines. With a little extra effort, you can help them adapt to unusual or new situations as well. Make a conscious effort to expose the puppy to sights and sounds he or she may not encounter in your home. For example, the puppy should have positive interactions with all types of people: young, old, with beards, in uniforms or hats, high or low pitched voices, tall, short, people in wheelchairs or people on skateboards, men, women, cars, cats, city streets and country settings. Starting around 3 months of age, introduce your puppy to many new situations. You may ask neighbors and friends to come over and give your puppy a treat and praise for greeting them. Training your puppy to sit politely in front of visitors, then having the guest offer the dog a treat can help them learn how to interact with guests and not jump up on people. You could take the puppy for a car ride and reward him or her for comfortable behavior in the car, or carry the pup through the park or to a cafe. If a new situation arises and you do not have treats with you, a happy tone of voice and praise can be rewarding as well. If the puppy shows fear or backs away, calmly give it a break instead of pushing the dog toward the object or person that scared them. Try again a bit later, starting farther away, for example, and giving treats as you approach the fear-inducing situation.

February, 2009 Trying to comfort or reassure a dog who is fearful can act to reward the fearful behavior, so it is best to temporarily remove the dog from the situation.

Be wary of disease All of this advice involves exposing your new puppy to the world around him. While this is important, it is just as important to remember that they are susceptible to many diseases until they are fully vaccinated. While we want to prevent your dog from developing fears or anxiety, we also want to be sure the dog is healthy. A major concern is Parvovirus, which lives in the soil. So keeping your dog off the ground and away from places other dogs go is crucial. If your dog is small enough, you may carry them with you, or you can have people and healthy, vaccinated dogs come to your house for socialization. Another option is to take the puppy to puppy socialization classes held in a room that can be sanitized and with other puppies who are screened for vaccination and health. Never bring your puppy to class if it seems sick in any way, even if you think you are overreacting. As long as the other puppies in class are up to date on vaccines and the instructor is aware of each dog’s situation, this is a low-risk environment and can be invaluable in helping your puppy mature into a happy, healthy dog. Your veterinarian can recommend classes in your area and answer other questions about raising a puppy. Ilana Halperin is one of the veterinarians at Disney Pet Hospital. You can reach her at 689-4244.

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

February, 2009

a entertainment rts &

Gallery Concord launches “Winter Gifts” Gallery Concord’s new show, “Winter Gifts,” opened Jan. 9 with a reception for about 300 people. “Every three months, we have a wonderful reception of wine, music, hors d’oeuvres and beautiful art,” said

Photos by Mike Dunn

Marin County resident Chloe Trujillo is the featured artist at Gallery Concord.

gallery co-director Carol Jurksin. This time, music was provided by the Mistral Winds, a woodwind quartet. Chloe Trujillo of Marin County is the featured artist, with two watercolors in the show. When asked how long she has been painting, she smiled and said: “As long as I could hold a brush.” The reception featured a juried art show open to California Watercolor Association members. The winners were Concord’s Pablo Villacana in first place, Victoria Chiofalo in second and Marilyn Miller in third. -Mike Dunn The gallery is at 1765 Galindo St., Concord. Hours are 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday to Sunday, except holidays. For more information, call 691-6140 or visit www.galleryconcord.org.

Page 25

Moving Arts brings ‘Beauty’ to the stage Moving Arts Dance Center and Theater is throwing its doors open for a salon show in early February. “Beauty from Darkness” features a world premiere by artistic director Anandha Ray, a duet with Bay Area legend Michael Lowe and live music from the band Judgement Day. Presented in the intimate, 90-seat theater at the Concord studio, the production offers an unusual, upclose look at professional dance. The “buzz” generated from the interaction between the audience and live performers is sure to heat up your

DENISE MILLER’S WATERCOLOR is entitled “Santa Barbara Mission.”

Company promises creative take on ‘The Producers’ Diablo Light Opera Company of Walnut Creek will launch its 50th anniversary season Feb. 13 with Mel Brooks’ blockbuster musical “The Producers.” Directed by DLOC veteran Ryan Weible, fresh off his Shellie win for “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” the play centers on Max Bialystock, producer of the greatest flops on Broadway, and his nervous accountant, Leo Bloom. When the duo discover that they could actually make more money with a flop show that closes immediately than they could with a hit, they set GINNY WEHRMEISTER AND RYAN DRUMMOND out to produce the worst show, with the most eccentric cast and creative “Springtime for Hitler.” team, in the history of theater. Assisting Max (Marcus Klinger) Fueled by Brooks’ slapstick, the and Leo (Ryan Drummond) in their musical features such riotous numendeavor is the sultry Swedish secrebers as “I Wanna Be a Producer,” tary, Ulla, played by Concord resident “Der Guten Tag Hop-Clop” and

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Ginny Wehrmeister. She is a graduate of the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and a veteran of many area theaters, including Diablo Actors Ensemble and Town Hall Theatre. Adapted from the 1968 film of the same name, “The Producers” won a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards when it opened on Broadway in 2001, starring Matthew Broderick and Nathan Lane. “It’s one of our most ambitious and exciting shows in our five decades of presenting musicals,” said Daren A.C. Carollo, DLOC artistic director and the show’s producer. “We are one of only 10 theater companies in the country that have been granted the rights to produce this show, and we’re giving it our all to make it an unfor-

See Producers, page 26

wintry soul. Moving Arts, which is featured on the cover of the new Contra Costa Yellow Pages, will also be showcased in the March issue of The Concordian. The salon concert will be 8 p.m. Feb. 7 and 2 p.m. Feb. 8 at 1281-C Franquette Ave., Concord. Tickets are $10-$25. For more information, call 825-8399 or visit .

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 26

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high-tech hover chairs. Slurping their virtual meals and rendering all verbs entirely verbal, these dudes are headed for nothing but the fat farm. Second, there’s masculine love. Geeky guy gets gorgeous gal. Without talking. Enough said. Finally, there’s good love. Here, the filmmakers spool out a lengthy list: love of old movies, music, dancing, sci-fi, gadgets, simple toys, verbal puns, speedy vehicles, holding hands, plant life, space travel, planets, the good old days, friendships, human endurance, innovation and persistence, hopeful hearts, noble causes and love between two hearts - in this case, a boxy bot and his super clean, pod pal. And it’s this love that transforms this kid film into a mission statement for future generations. “Wall-E” offers an indisputable warning of the harm we might do and a splendid reminder of the good we can do, delivering the messages with enough oomph to send us out with purpose reborn. This time, we’ve really gotta get this lesson. Just six months after the film’s release, with the economy crumbling faster than feta, a newspaper headline reads, “Even in recession, CES is high-tech heaven.” (Lost your life savings? Buy a toy!). And Mattel introduces Mind Flex, a gizmo making it possible to think a ball into the air - you don’t even have to lift your arms! The remedy could be this simple: Remember Wall-E and his self-deprecating humor, tenderness, honor, heroic self-sacrifice and a plant in a boot. Wall-E embodies the best in all of us. We just have to learn and remember. Then if we can just get that annoying jingle from “Hello Dolly!” out of our heads, we might have heaven on earth. Additional Lou Fancher reviews may be found at www.claytonbookshop.com.

with the play. “Audiences can expect a fresh, inventive and creative production full of things never before seen in any other production.” - Jeanna Ross “The Producers” runs Feb. 13 t0 March 15 at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. For tickets, call 943-7469 or visit www.lesherartscenter.org.

More Arts & Entertainment on page 28

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

February, 2009

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ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT “Winter Gifts” Featured artist Denise Miller offers glowing watercolor paintings, and guest artist Chloe Trujillo has a primal, spiritual elegance to her images. Gallery Concord, 1765 Galindo St, Concord. 691-6140 or www.galleryconcord.org.

Marriott, 2395 N. Main St., Walnut Creek. $60. Contact Arnetta at 680-2849 or [email protected].

Electronic Waste Recycling

“Be My Baby” Feb. 2-March 1. The West Coast premiere of Ken Ludwig’s comedy. Willows Theatre, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $30-40. 798-1300 or www.willowstheatre.org.

“Once Upon This Island” 7:15 p.m. Feb. 6, 2:15 and 7:15 p.m. Feb. 7 and 2:15 p.m. Feb. 8. This Civic Arts Teen Theatre musical is set in the Caribbean Islands. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15-$17. 943-SHOW.

Creekside Arts Celebration 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, March 6, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. March 7 and 1-5 p.m. March 8. This fund-raiser, with the theme "Cultural Legacies … Reflections of Our Past," supports environmental education programs in the library’s certified wildlife habitat. Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. www.creeksideartists.org or www.claytonlibrary.org.

“Beauty from Darkness” 8 p.m. Feb. 7 and 2 p.m. Feb. 8. Moving Arts Dance presents a Salon Concert with the band Judgement Day. $10-$25. Moving Arts Dance Theater, 1281-C Franquette Ave., Concord. 8258399 or www.movingartsdance.org.

“2 Pianos 4 Hands” Through Feb. 28. This Center Rep play is about two piano prodigies intent on concert stardom. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW or centerrep.org.

“The Producers” Feb. 13-March 15. Diablo Light Opera Company launches its 50th anniversary season with Mel Brooks’ blockbuster musical. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-7469 or www.lesherartscenter.org.

FUND-RAISERS/EVENTS Meals on Wheels Crab Feed 6-10 p.m. Feb. 6. Dinner, silent auction and raffle to benefit Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services. $40 or $360 for table of 10. Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. 937-8311.

CHS Crab Feed 6 p.m.-midnight Feb. 7. To benefit the Concord High School Athletic Boosters. $50. Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. www.concordhighschool.net/chsathleticsCrabfeed.html.

A Taste of Romance 5:30-8:30 p.m. Feb. 12. Wine tasting, chocolates, finger foods and dancing to benefit Ellen’s Guild of the Family Stress Center. $45, or $80 a couple. Shadelands Art Center, 111 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Contact Marcia at 687-4719 or www.familystresscenter.org.

Scholarship Dinner 6 p.m. Feb. 28. Silent auction and dinner for the Black Families Association of Contra Costa,

CONCORD STOMPERS beginners classes start 7 p.m. Feb. 4. $36 for six weeks. Singles welcome; no dancing experience needed. Mt. Diablo Women's Club, 1700 Farm Bureau Road, Concord. Call Jack at 689-6253 or www.angelfire.com/id/stompers. CONTRA COSTA BLUE STAR MOMS CHAPTER 20 members have sons and daughters in uniform. Visit ccbluestarmoms.org. Social and support meeting, 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of the month. Business meeting, 6:30 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month, Community Room, Concord Police Department, 1350 Galindo St. Contact Becky at 286-1728 or [email protected].

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 7. Get rid of old electronics, TV, microwave and more at the free event. Overflow Parking Lot 7, Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. 866-335-3373 or www.noewaste.com.

CONTRA COSTA CHESS CLUB meets 7-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck’s, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. The club is an affiliate of the United States Chess Federation and players of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Contact Mike at 639-1987 or www.uschess.org.

CLUBS

CONTRA COSTA GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3700 Concord Blvd., Concord. rootsweb.com/.~cacccgs/.

“Evil Dead: The Musical” Through Feb. 7. This campy take on “slasher” horror films features seating in “the Splatter Zone.” No one under 13 admitted without a parent. Willows Cabaret, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $20$30. 798-1300 or www.willowstheatre.org.

and 8-11 p.m. the second Saturday of the month. Sponsored by the Concord Senior Club. 2727 Parkside Circle, Concord. 798-4557.

AMERICAN LEGION POST 171 meets the third Tuesday of the month. 5 p.m. social, 7 p.m. meeting. Concord Veterans Memorial Hall, 2290 Willow Pass Road. ATHEISTS AND FREETHINKERS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY meets 2:30 p.m. the first Sunday of each month, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek. Contact Chuck at 672-7243. B2F BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP meets noon1:30 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or [email protected].

CONTRA COSTA MINERAL & GEM SOCIETY meets the second Monday of the month at Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. 429-2748 or 779-0698 or http://home.comcast.net/~contracosta mineralandgem/site/. DIABLO NUMISMATIC SOCIETY, a coin-collecting club, meets 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month, Veterans Memorial Hall, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Contact Mike at 825-0649 or [email protected].

CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL CONCORD/CLAYTON MAGNOLIA BRANCH meets 7-9 p.m. the first Monday of the month in Concord. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or [email protected].

DIABLO VALLEY DEMOCRATIC CLUB meets 7 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month. They will meet Feb. 18 at the Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek. 946-0469 or www.dvdems.org.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS meets the second Monday of the month, Walnut Country Club, 4498 Lawson Ct., Concord. This women’s group builds relationships and ties through educational presentations and social events. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or [email protected].

DIABLO VALLEY MACINTOSH USERS GROUP meets 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. Free question and answer help for Mac, followed by programs, guest speakers and demonstrations. Bancroft Elementary School, 2700 Parish Dr., Walnut Creek. Call Tom at 689-1155 or www.dvmug.org.

CLAYTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY holds its Camellia Tea 1-4 p.m. Feb. 8. No admission charge, but donations are appreciated. Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St. 672-0240 or claytonhistory.org.

DIABLO VALLEY WINGS, Chapter P of the Gold Wing Touring Association, meets the second Tuesday of the month. 6 p.m. social hour, with dinner at 7 p.m. Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. 6863774 or www.GWTA-CA-DVW.org.

CLAYTON VALLEY GARDEN CLUB meets 7 p.m. the second Wednesdays of the month, Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Call Dorothy at 672-2526. CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB meets 9:30 a.m. for coffee, 10 a.m. meetings, second and fourth Tuesday of the month, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1090 Alberta Way, Concord. Call Joyce at 672-3850. CLUTCH BUSTERS SQUARE DANCE CLUB meets 7:3010 p.m. Thursdays, Mt. Diablo Woman’s Club, 1700 Farm Bureau Road, Concord. CONCORD ART ASSOCIATION meets 12:50-3 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings include an educational program by an invited artist with demonstrations of various art forms. Concord Library, 2900 Salvio St. 646-5455. CONCORD DIABLO ROTARY meets 12:15 p.m. Wednesdays, Marie Calendars, 2090 Diamond Blvd., Concord. Email Kathy at [email protected]. CONCORD GARDEN CLUB meets 9:30 a.m. the third Tuesday of every month. Bethel Baptist Church, 3578 Clayton Road, Concord. Contact Betsy at 687-2334. CONCORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The Historical Society Resource Center is open 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays and by appointment. Walking tours are available for groups of five to 15 by appointment. 1601 Sutter St., Suite E, F. 827-3380 or www.conhistsoc.org. CONCORD LIONS CLUB meets 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month, La Tapatia Mexican Restaurant, 1802 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Contact Liz at 687-3594. CONCORD MYSTERY BOOK CLUB meets 2:30 p.m. the second Sunday of the month, Concord Library, 2900 Salvio St. 646-5455. CONCORD ROTARY meets 12:15 p.m. Fridays, Concord Hilton, 1970 Diamond Blvd. Contact Jerry at 675-1042. CONCORD SENIOR CLUB holds ballroom dancing, 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesdays

EAST BAY CASUAL HIKING GROUP is for all ages and abilities. Hikes range 3-9 miles or 2-4 hours. No membership fees. http://Hiking.Bondon.com. ELLEN’S GUILD meets 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month in various locations. The non-profit supports the Family Stress Center, helping to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children. Contact Karen at 820-2371 or [email protected] or Jennifer at 827-0212, ext.107 or [email protected]. www.familystresscenter.org. KIWANIS CLUB OF GREATER CONCORD meets noon Wednesdays, The Old Spaghetti Factory, 1955 Mt. Diablo St., Concord. Contact Sandra at 372-5348.

Page 27 TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL has numerous meeting locations, dates and times in the Concord area. www.toastmasters.org. Toastmasters on Monday, Aegis of Concord, 4756 Clayton Road. Contact Carie at 682-7211. Toastmasters on Tuesday, 7:15 p.m., John Muir Hospital Concord Campus, 2730 Grant St., Classroom A. Contact Marion at 6861818. VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS POST 1525 meets 9 a.m. the second Saturday of the month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 2990 Willow Pass Road, Concord. WIDOWS/WIDOWERS CLUB meets for dinner, brunch, theater, etc. This is not a dating service nor is it a grieving class, just a way to meet other people. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or [email protected].

SUPPORT GROUPS AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP meets 7:30-8:30 p.m. Mondays, St. Martins of Tours Anglican Church and Preschool, 5294 Concord Blvd., Concord. (This is while construction is underway at St. Bonaventure’s Church, the normal meeting place.) If you are concerned about someone else’s drinking, Al-Anon Family Groups can help. For meetings in other Concord locations, call 932-6770 or visit www.ncwsa.org/district. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. For local meetings, call the Walnut Creek Service Center at 939-4155 or visit www.aa.org. CARDIAC CARE SUPPORT GROUP Mended Hearts visitors meets 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month, John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creek or Concord campus. Affiliated with the American Heart Association, the group provides support to patients and family members dealing with heart disease. 947-5206. CONTRA COSTA FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP for patients dealing with leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, lymphoma and multiple myeloma meets 7-8:30 p.m. the first Thursday of every month. Sponsored by the Leukemia Society. Call Sarah at 947-4466, ext. 32797. HIV/AIDS SUPPORT GROUP meets 7-9 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, John Muir Medical Center, Concord campus. 674-2190. HOSPICE OF THE EAST BAY, offers support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief. Widow and Widowers Support, 6-8 p.m. Mondays, Feb. 9-March 30. 3470 Buskirk Ave., Pleasant Hill. 887-5678 or www.hospiceeastbay.org. RAINBOW COMMUNITY CENTER (RCC) fosters a sense of community among gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and questioning (GLBTIQ) persons and enhances their lives by providing social opportunities, health and wellness services, political and educational programs and is guided by a commitment to acceptance and equality. All meetings held at the RCC Office, 3024 Willow Pass Road, Suite 200, Concord. Project CONNECT: Free HIV testing (results in less than 30 minutes)and counseling, 6-8 p.m. the first and third Fridays of the month. Youth Peer Support and Social Group: For LGBT youth ages 13-20. 3-8 p.m. Saturdays. Queer Talk: LGBT Youth After-School Program, 45:30 p.m. Thursdays.

KNITTING GROUP meets 2-4 p.m. the first Sunday of the month, Concord Library, 2900 Salvio St. Free instruction and practice yarn provided; bring your own needles. 646-5455.

Men’s HIV Support Group: 6:30-8 p.m. Mondays.

ODD FELLOWS meet 3 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, Pacheco Lodge 117, 4349 Cowell Road, Concord. Call Herb at 682-7358.

Transgender Support Group: 7-9 p.m. the first Thursday of the month.

REBEKAH’S LODGE meet 8 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month, Mt. Diablo Lodge 228, 4349 Cowell Road, Concord. Call Carmen at 6725045. ROTARY CLUB OF CLAYTON VALLEY/CONCORD SUNRISE meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton Meeting includes breakfast and features a speaker. Contact Chuck at 689-7640 or www. claytonvalleyrotary.org. SCRABBLE CLUB meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. $3 fee per player. Call Mike at 639-1987 or www.scrabbleassoc.com. SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL DIABLO VISTA meets the second, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month at Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Call Gloria at 890-8255.

Women’s Discussion Group: For Lesbians, 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays.

Men’s Discussion Group: For gay and bisexual men, 7-9 p.m. the second and fourth Fridays of the month. STROKE SUPPORT GROUP OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, meets 7-9 p.m. Feb. 9, Ball Auditorium, John Muir Medical Center, 1601 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Kyle Sullivan will discuss WalkAide, an adaptive electrical stimulation device for drop foot. Attendees will then break up into three coping groups. Contact Ann Dzuna at 376-6218.

VOLUNTEERS American Red Cross Blood Drive: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 2, Indian Valley Elementary, 551 Marshall Dr., Walnut Creek. 800-GIVE-LIFE or beadonor.com. Code INDIAN) to schedule an appointment. Blood Drive: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb 7, Oakhurst

See Getting Out, page 28

The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com

Page 28

Sitting at the piano, learning about life

‘Baby’ looks at life from many angles

enter Rep of Walnut Creek con- them and that they have continued to tinues its 2008-’09 season with work together so well in so many difthe comedy “2 Pianos 4 ferent venues over the years.” Hands.” The play, which centers While the production is not a around two piano prodigies intent on musical, live music plays a heavy role concert stardom, is directed by in the action. “I also think some Walnut Creek newcomer Bruce K. poignant things about parent/child Sevy. and teacher/stuWhile this locadent relationships tion is foreign to are examined withSevy, the play is in the journey of certainly not. Sevy the play. I wonis the associate dered when I first artistic director and directed it if only director of new play people who had development for the experience playing Denver Center the piano or playing Theatre Company, a musical instruand his involvement would underment with “2 stand the play,” Pianos 4 Hands” Sevy says. has led to a 20-the“Fortunately, all ater tour. audiences have Casting was crubeen able to follow cial to the piece, as Photo courtesy of the Center Rep and identify with the actors had to be MARK ANDERS AND CARL J. DANIELSEN the amount of trainversatile enough to demonstrate what four hands can do ing, practice, frushandle not only the trations and joy that comedy and frantic character-switchare depicted in this play. It could ing but also the music. None of the apply to sports or any other endeavor performance is pre-recorded; the that requires the amount of focus and actors play their own pianos live. discipline described in the play.” Sevy is pleased with the casting of - Jeanna Ross Carl Danielsen and Mark Anders. “Carl’s parents are from Walnut Creek, “2 Pianos 4 Hands” runs through so this is especially fun for him. Mark Feb. 28 at the Lesher Center for the and Carl complement each other so Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. well in this play – it was a huge stroke For tickets, call 943-SHOW or visit of good fortune that I was able to get centerrep.org.

C

Getting Out, from page 27 Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. 800-GIVE-LIFE or beadonor.com. Code Clayton925 to schedule an appointment. Blood Drive: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 10, 2625 Shadelands Dr., Walnut Creek. 800-GIVE-LIFE or beadonor.com. Code AETNA84 to schedule an appointment. Blood Drive: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 26, John Muir, Concord One Auditorium, 2540 East St., Concord. 800-GIVE-LIFE or www.beadonor.com Code DIABLO to schedule an appointment. Volunteer Orientation: 10 a.m. Feb. 10 or 3 p.m. Feb. 13, 140 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Contact Mandy at 510-594-5211 or [email protected].

SCHOOL/YOUTH EAST BAY PANTHERS BASKETBALL CLUB AAU Basketball tryouts for fourth-graders through high school, Feb. 21-22 and March 8. Contact Steven at [email protected] or www.eastbaypan-

thers.org. Ayers Elementary PTA 8th Annual, Dinner Dance and Auction on Friday, Mar. 6, 6:30 pm to 11pm at Centre Concord. Dinner by Elegant Occasions. Auction items from SF hotels, local restaurants, museums, & more. Tickets $39 each or 2 for $75; advance purchase only. Contact Kristi at 676-5215 or [email protected].

GOVERNMENT CITY COUNCIL meets 6:30 p.m. the first, second and fourth Mondays of the month in the City Council Chambers, 1950 Parkside Dr.. The meetings are televised live on Concord cable TV channels 28 (Comcast) and 29 (Astound) and on the city’s Website. A calendar of all city meetings with a link to meeting agendas is available at www.cityofconcord.org. Contact City Clerk Mary Rae Lehman at 671-3495. COMMISSION ON AGING meets 1:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month, Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. The commission works to identify, improve and develop services and opportunities for senior citizens in Concord. 671-3419. COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE meets 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month, Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. The

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his month, the Willows Theatre in Concord presents the West Coast premiere of the comedy “Be My Baby” by Ken Ludwig. Set in San Francisco, the plot centers on Maud, an uptight English matron, and John, a brusque middle-aged Scotsman. When their mutual relatives Photo courtesy of the Willows Theatre PATRICIA SILVER AS MAUDE, Melissa Quine as Gloria, Nikolai decide to adopt a baby, Maud and John Lokteff as Minister, Brady Wollery as Christy, Chris Ayles as John. are forced to fly to California to escort The play premiered at Houston’s the infant back to Scotland. Hijinks Alley Theatre in 2005, starring Hal ensue when they become stranded in Holbrook and Dixie Carter. The piece the city, where they learn some comiis complicated to produce, due to a cal lessons about life and love. surprisingly large number of sets. According to Ludwig, the play began “It moves from a farm in Scotland as a tribute to his children. “I was tryto an airplane to a hotel in San ing to convey how much they meant to Francisco to a cruise ship, and so on,” me and how having a child in your life says Ludwig. “My plays generally is the greatest gift in the world,” he unfold in one location – a green room says. “It changes your life – turns it or a hotel room – so writing in this upside down and makes you look at all form was a new challenge, akin to your relationships differently. It makes writing a screenplay.” you look at life differently.” - Jeanna Ross However, the play took an unexpected turn when the characters of Maud “Be My Baby” runs Feb. 2 to and John began to closely resemble March 1 at the Willows Theatre, 1975 Ludwig’s parents, creating a study of Diamond Blvd., Concord. For tickets, multi-generational affections in which call 798-1300 or visit www.willowthe playwright was forced to examine stheatre.org. his role as both child and parent.

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Community Advisory Committee for the Concord Community Reuse Project provides input on planning for the civilian reuse of the Concord Naval Weapon Station and continued community outreach efforts. 671-3019. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION meets 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month, City Manager’s Conference Room, Wing A, 1950 Parkside Dr. The commission identifies housing, neighborhood and social services needs within the community. 6713283. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS meets 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays, County Administration Building, 651 Pine St., Room 107, Martinez. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us or 335-1900. DESIGN REVIEW BOARD meets 5:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, Center Conference Room, Wing D, 1950 Parkside Dr. The board reviews the design for each improvement for which a building permit, certificate or other approval is required. The board also reviews any matter referred to the board by the Planning Commission, zoning administrator or planning manager, 671-3152. HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION meets the second Tuesday of the month. Most meetings are at 7

p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 1950 Parkside Dr. The commission fosters positive human relations through education, cultural exchange and community outreach. 671-3327.

PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE COMMISSION meets the second Wednesday of the month. Most meetings are at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 1950 Parkside Dr. 671-3440. PLANNING COMMISSION meets the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Most meetings are held at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 1950 Parkside Dr. The commission develops and maintains the General Plan, develops specific plans as necessary, makes recommendations to the City Council regarding proposed General Plan amendments, and reviews planned district developments, tentative subdivision maps and use permit applications. 671-3152. MAYOR’S OPEN OFFICE: Concord Mayor Bill Shinn holds regular open office hours in his office at the Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. The mayor looks forward to talking to residents about any issues they wish to address. To make a 20minute appointment, call Mary at 671-3158 during business hours.

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