GREETINGS CONCORD 2168, FROM CONCORD 2018

JUNE 2018 Greyhounds Race to Retirement Go-Gos Guitarist/Songwriter, Jane Wiedlin Greets Arriving Greyhounds

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

• Summer Thrills: Thru-Hiking Mt. Diablo, Southwestern Destinations, Rafting on the Stanislaus • Lions, Rattlesnakes and Bears! • Secret Service: Columbine, CO Evil Tragedy • Legal Briefs: Employee or Independent Contractor • Calendar of Events, Concerts, and July 4th Celebrations

Photos by Diane Walsh and EndlessPawsibilities.com Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 2 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990 from the Publisher Chat to David King SPECIAL EDITION the Future This is a special edition of Diablo Gazette. If you are reading this now, it must be to speak with someone remotely was with Ground broke for the construction of the the year 2168. My, what I would give to a landline-based telephone, something new entrance of Todos Santos Park laying see what life is like for you, our country, else that you may only see now in a mu- in all the pavers and tiles sponsored by and our world. seum! Cell phones only began to appear Concord residents and businesses. Next will be the installation of the Don Salvio Pa- As I write this, it is 2018 and we still when I was in my mid-twenties, the checo Bronze Statue to be unveiled during drive cars, use smart phones, and con- so-called smart phone only came along Concord’s 150th Anniversary Celebration tinue to fight diseases like diabetes and when I was in my mid-forties. I can only on July 4. Inside that statue will be a time cancer. The world is still a volatile place imagine how you communicate with capsule placed in a vault to be opened in an- with street crime, international disputes, friends and loved ones around the world other 150 years. So, what makes this edition extreme poverty and famine in many now. In 2018, self-driving car technology special? It will be in that time capsule. parts of the world, as well as terrorism. I was in its infancy—very experimental (Read this copy and enjoy a bit of history, sincerely hope that, in your time, things and not in wide-spread use at all. The future Concordians.) I can’t imagine what are very different. That said, we live in idea of driving yourself around must be Concord will be like in 2168 . I asked a a marvelous age with many creature as foreign to you as a horse and buggy for local group of curmudgeons that meet at comforts, technology that helps us, and transportation is to me. Berkshire Book Store what Concord would leisure time to enjoy the blessings of a While you must live a vastly different be like in 150 years. Their consensus was, prosperous time in the United States of life than I did, I feel certain that a few we could be known as the Port of Concord tivities to consider. All are within reasonable traveling distance from here. Journey-man America. aspects of human existence are exactly as sea levels will have risen, the Hayward I have spent my career as a journalist, the same. You want to live in prosperity Fault will have released the anticipated big Journal reviews nine Southwestern National roughly forty years on television (some- and peace and want the best for your one leveling more parking space in Walnut Parks, we take a look at a California rafting Creek, and Laura Hoffmeister will still be on experience, and tag along a Mt. Diablo thing that may only be in museums in children. Your family, friends, and hope Concord City Council. Backpacking adventure. your time!) as a news anchor and report- for a better future are surely the same as On pages 10 and 11, we highlight some There is no shortage of fun activities, I er. For thirty of those years, I worked must be your sense of pride in your com- great summer vacation destinations and ac- hope you enjoy your summer. in San Francisco and lived nearby you munity. And with good reason. Concord in Clayton, and then in Walnut Creek. I was a special place when I was here, and can only hope that Concord is still the I have no doubt it is even more so now. wonderful community that I have known What an enormous privilege to be able A Backwards it to be for decades. I have been proud to communicate with you so many years concordby Edi Birsan, Email mayorme: Put EDI in subject line to be very involved in Concord civic life into the future. A blast from the past as [email protected] Time Capsule for so many years–presiding over the we say! annual Christmas tree lighting ceremo- I wish you all my best and only wish we As part of the 150th Anniversary of Colony. Is there a parallel here with the ny, performing at Todos Santos Plaza had invented a crystal ball so that I might Concord we are planning a time capsule DACA kids brought here without their with my rock band, emceeing California look into your world. for the next 150 years, though I am consent and not eligible for citizenship?) Symphony concerts in the park, just to If, however, you have already invented not sure if it would be readable by the Then there was Don Salvio Pacheco, name a few. a time machine—please look me up when winners of the Robot Apocalypse. Back the dominant Mexican American In my time, technology-driven change you come back! in 1868 they did not have the practice of landowner and his family standing firm was exponential. As a child, the only way ~Dan Ashley Time Capsules, so I was thinking what in his commitment to his neighbors would they have written back then to tell pointing to a place a little east of his us about their times, values and hope for Adobe and offering 26 acres and a town the future? layout with lots for one dollar (or a They would have been the survivors handshake promise) to restart things. Ruby Dooby Do of the total destruction of the Town of Was it no wonder that the survivors/ Sweetie Pacheco by the Hayward Earthquake with refugees who came together at the place to the Rescue a history of destruction by Fire and Flood he named Todos Santos, quickly started previously. Its water access to Suisun Bay to call it Concord. A rash of such names was finally silted over and destroyed in spread across the U.S. (78 of them in fact Each month a hard to place the shaking making its economic reason with our Concord being the biggest...and dog in foster care will be to be: void. best), with the emphasis on the value of featured to give them extra It was also just three years after living in concordance, neighborliness, exposure to find their forever the end of the Civil War. The most respect, and an end to the discord that home. destructive war in our land and culture surrounded their immediate history. with great discord from shore to shore. I would then suspect that their Time Sweetie is being fostered The survivors and its founders, the Capsule words would be a reminder of by NorCalPoodleRescue, Inc Pacheco’s, were firmly on the side of the path that they were setting: (NCPR). She is a 2½ year-old the North which is why we have streets Emphasis on what we have in 8-pound mixed-breed poodle. named Grant and Colfax (Grant’ Vice common, not what divides us. Her non-poodle heritage is President) and Concord Boulevard was Praise for the diversity of their unknown, but best guesses are actually called Lincoln Avenue. neighborhood where the Mexican either Italian greyhound or In Washington, the extreme political Americans reached out to help their Chinese-crested. One thing is edge that was called the Radical Anglo refugees as well as anyone else who for sure – she’s 100% cute and a Republican Party pushed through the needed help to build a new community. pawsitively special dawg. 14th Amendment to combat the growing A reminder that there were still evil This poor girl was rescued Democrats use of racist voter suppression forces about who would try to use the from a shelter in October 2017. and now has a doggie brother in his new Jim Crow laws and the revival of the political system to deny people votes, She has recovered from 2 broken bones Dread Scott Decision which said that citizenship and inclusion. home. and is now ready to find her fur-ever Lucky - “Thanks to your article, (Diab- basically even freed slaves and their And most of all, that being a good home. This fun-loving dog is all about subsequent children could not be U.S. neighbor where families of different types lo Gazette, May 2018) Lucky was adopt- playtime. In fact, she’d rather play ball Citizens because they were brought here can live in concordance. ed. It was the first and only inquiry he than eat. Sweetie prefers to get her exer- against their will. (They sort of ignored I wonder how far different the future had. He now lives in Reno with Sue and the founding of Georgia as a Penal advice will be for the people of 2168? cise indoors because big dogs in the out- Chuck Kozak and two fun doggies. Kozaks side world intimidate her. Sweetie loves had just lost their rat terrier a couple of all people, but due to her small size, a months ago. While visiting at Rossmoor, home with adults or older children would they saw Lucky in your paper and im- be best. Sweetie sports a retro shaggy mediately wanted him... Lucky instantly look and will have moderate grooming took to Chuck which made my heart melt. needs. Her adoption fee is $350. If inter- Again, thank you for doing an article on ested, please fill out an adoption interest him.” -- Barbara Heuring, Founder of form: http://www.norcalpoodlerescue. Paws and Pooches, Inc., Concord. net/adoptioninterestform.html. NCPR Peanut Butter – Congratulations hosts adoption events in Walnut Creek. to this pawsitively special dawg, Peanut NCPR is a tax-exempt organization Butter had been in rescue for 295 days in under Section 501(c)(3). In addition CA, but after having his story told (Diablo to tax-deductible donations, you can Gazette, March 2018), he was transferred support their rescue efforts by donating to another state and adopted in five just your car, sponsoring a poodle, or buying a days. calendar. Another option is to donate new or clean and gently used leashes and dog Editors Note: Ruby Dooby Do is Con- clothes for their July 21st Pup Stuff Sale cord’s Instagram celebrity with more than by contacting norcalpoodlerescueinc@ 59,000 followers. Instagram.com/ruby- gmail.com. doobyDo. Special thanks to Jill Hedgecock, Program Coordinator, Mount Diablo Branch UPDATES: of the California Writers Club for her help in translating canine for this article. Pokemon - ARF dog, Pokemon, www.jillhedgecock.com. (Diablo Gazette, April 2018) was adopted Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 3 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990 After the Racetrack: Greyhounds Find a Loving Finish Line by Jill Hedgecock, Program Coordinator, Mount Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club. www.jillhedgecock.com

On May 12, 2018, Heath- first unload- er Weir drove into Walnut ed the dogs Creek with a trailer filled with one at a time, 27 greyhounds rescued from then guided a Florida racetrack. Their them into a arrival marked the end of the pre-labeled second leg of their journey, crate. The a 25-hour trek from Heath- dogs were er’s Colorado home. More fed, watered than 30 volunteers cheered and pottied. and applauded to welcome Because Heather and the retired rac- greyhounds ing dogs she’d rescued. Over are taught the last few weeks, Weir, a to chase a veterinarian, had assessed squeaky the animal’s health upon lure, they arrival from Florida, spayed may not be and neutered the dogs, and compatible reviewed applications of po- with small tential California adopters. pets so next These greyhounds are came cat lucky pups. Many racing dogs and small- experience track accidents dog testing, were debriefed, signed contracts, and that result in injury or death. followed paid the $300 adoption fee. Repeat A constitutional amend- by bathing adopters like Lisa Alexander who’d taken ment is on the November and photog- home her first greyhound from the very ballot to phase out racing in raphy. All first GSGA haul, was thrilled to meet her Florida that could change all Today was a landmark day for GSGA volunteers new dog, Carpet (renamed Mini). First- that. Until because Hijinx was their 1,800th rescue. were instructed to remain quiet during time adopters, David Franco and his two then, Stuart It was a fitting coincidence that Hijinx this phase of intake. It might seem like children, Andy and Lily, were excited Homer and was a sleek black racer, because Barbara an impossible challenge to keep so many about their new pet. Andy piped up that wife, Barba- Homer is particularly drawn to black people silenced, but most were seasoned he liked greyhounds because “they chase ra, founders dogs. She became interested in grey- volunteers and experienced greyhound rabbits.” of Walnut hounds in 1991 when she read an article owners. Leslie DeLange, whose job as a GSGA is an all-volunteer non-profit Creek-based about these animals in People magazine, runner was to take dogs to Golden State but it wasn’t until 2002 that she and the various stations, adopted Greyhound Stuart started the rescue. her first greyhound in 2008. Adoption Stuart and Barbara’s years of experi- Jim Shattuck (a three-time (GSGA), will ence have perfected the haul-day routine greyhound adopter) has been help retired that brings 120+ greyhounds into the Bay volunteering for GSGA for 4 dogs find Area every year. Dedicated volunteers years and came to transport homes. overflow animals to Auburn, a safe haven for up to 60 dogs awaiting adoption. Guitarist and singer Jane Wiedlin of the 1980s hit band the Go-Gos (see cover) returned to volunteer as a runner for GSGA after a two- year hiatus. She adopted her first greyhound 16 years ago. Although she’s adopted other breeds, “Greyhounds are the easiest dog to own,” says Weidlin. Duane Caldwell has been the official GSGA photogra- pher for the last 4 years. “They make great therapy dogs,” says Caldwell who or- ganizes weekly dog walks for fellow greyhound owners in San Jose. “I love the emotion- al intelligence of the breed.” Despite all the activity around these dogs, only an occasional whine interrupted the silence. A tendency not to bark is one of the many perks of this breed. Retired racers are generally low-maintenance. They re- organization. Because adoption fees don’t quire minimal grooming and only low to cover the veterinary care and other costs moderate exercise. They are calm, gentle, to run the rescue, GSGA runs an annual intelligent and adaptable. However, these picnic/auction fundraiser to subsidize former racing dogs are not suitable for all the adoptions. Tax-deductible donations homes. They have been trained to chase can also be made online at http://www. moving objects and will bolt through goldengreyhounds.com/donations/ doors. When outdoors, they must be kept index.htm or checks can be sent to UPS on leash or within a fenced yard at all Store, att GSGA, PMB 182 2977 Ygnacio times. They do not come housebroken, Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598. are poor swimmers, can be prone to Those interested in adopting a greyhound sunburn, require soft bedding, and need should fill out an application at http:// to live indoors. That said, they make great www.goldengreyhounds.com/adopt/#on- family pets with well-mannered children, lineform. tend to be healthy, and have an average life expectancy of 12 years. While some haul dogs were assigned to Photos:(left) Unloading their 1800th Grey- temporary fosters, 12 dogs were headed hound rescue, Hijinx. (above) Barbara Homer to forever homes. A house visit and an offering comfort, Cat testing by Stuart Homer, interview of the adopter’s lifestyle and founder of the rescue. Photos by Diane Walsh home life are part of the process. First- and EndlessPawsibilities.com. time adopters showed up for orientation 2½ hours after arrival to find out what dog they’d been paired with. New owners Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 4 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990

Jennifer Realtor, Better Homes Stojanovich Realty Lions, Eight Summer Home Security Tips Rattlesnakes Unfortunately, summer is the top and Bears! season for home burglaries. While you’re getting settled in your new home or traveling, be sure to use these tips to make your home less of a target to potential criminals. Install a home security system. If your new home didn’t already have a security system when you moved in, now is the time to install one. There are so many types of security systems available at many different price points. You can opt for a set of surveillance cameras you install and monitor yourself or choose a Residents have reported mountain system that includes remote monitoring by a third party. The most important lion sightings near Clayton, Pleasant thing to remember with a home security Hill, and Martinez. There have been nu- system is that it doesn’t help you if you merous rattlesnake sightings and a few don’t set the alarm. Always be sure the snakebites. In Lake Tahoe, Clayton res- system is engaged when you leave the ident David Moss recently survived an house. encounter with a black bear that crawled Secure the garage. Burglars will look into his cabin’s bathroom window. for the easiest point of entry to your home, which is often the garage. Always keep your garage door locked, and use a quality, heavy-duty lock. Keep the yard tidy. Overgrown bushes, trees, and shrubs can provide easy cover for criminals. Keep your yard tidy so there are fewer places for burglars to hide. Install motion lights or other outdoor lights so there are no patches of darkness. Don’t broadcast your plans. Are you taking a vacation this summer? While it’s tempting to talk about it on social media, you should keep it under wraps. You don’t want to advertising to potential Here are some safety tips for you in criminals that your house will be empty the event you have similar encounters during your vacation. Wait until you’re this summer. safely back at home to share the details of Mountain lion: Hike, jog or ride your amazing trip. your bicycle in groups. Always keep Enlist help from neighbors. When children in your sight. Mountain you move in, introduce yourself to your lions are especially drawn to children. neighbors. Neighbors can be your first line of defense when it comes to break- Most mountain lions will try to avoid ins. If you’re going to be out of town for a confrontation. Give them a way to any length of time, let them know. Tell escape. Do not run, instead, stand and them you’ll keep an eye on their house make eye contact. Pick up small chil- when they’re away and ask if they’ll keep dren. Appear larger by raising and wav- an eye on yours. ing your arms. Throw stones, branches, Don’t leave valuables outside. If you’re etc. without crouching or turning your working in the yard, it may be tempting back. Speak firmly in a loud voice. Fight to leave your garden tools out until under the doormat, but that’s the first may be tempting to open the windows back if attacked with rocks, sticks, caps, you’ve completed your job. But leaving place any criminal is going to look. The and keep them open on a beautiful day, jackets, garden tools, or bare hands. valuable items in the yard is an invitation same is true for those rocks, sprinkler don’t. Even if you think you’ll only be Protect your head and neck. to criminals and it makes their jobs easy. heads, and other clever devices that are gone for a few minutes, always close Rattlesnakes: Look at the ground The same is true for kids with their bikes meant to hide keys. Criminals shop in and lock all windows when you leave the ahead of you, under logs and rocks and toys. Always put your valuable items stores, too, and know to look for them. If house.Feel free to give me a call. before sitting down, and check the away when you’re done using them for you’re worried about getting locked out, Compliments of Virtual Results at www. area around picnic tables, campsites, the day. virtualresults.net then leave a key with a trusted neighbor, and barbecues before use. If you see a Don’t keep keys outside. You may friend, or family member. rattlesnake, move slowly away. If bitten, think you’re being sneaky by hiding a key Shut the windows. Lastly, though it call 911. Remain calm by lying down with the affected limb lower than the heart. If you are alone, walk calmly to the nearest source of help. Do Not Run. If you are not sure what kind of snake bit you, check the bite for two puncture marks (in rare cases one puncture mark) associated with intense, burning pain. This is typical of a rattlesnake bite. Black Bears: Bears will avoid humans if they hear them coming. If you encounter a bear, stop what you are doing. Speak in a calm, appeasing tone. Back away slowly. Walk, don’t run, and keep your eye on the bear so you can see how it will react. In most cases, the bear will flee. If you are in your campsite or other place bears shouldn’t be, try to move it out of the area. Ensure the bear has a clear and safe escape route with no people or obstacles in its way. Stand tall and look it directly in the eye. Yell at the bear and firmly tell it to leave: “Get out of here, bear!” Have pepper spray ready in case the bear approaches too closely. Never try to move a grizzly bear! For more information go to. http://www. bearsmart.com/live/bear-deterrents/ Have a safe and happy summer. Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 5 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990 Senior Resource Fair Protects Free Seminar Helps Seniors Against Senior Abuse Battle Depression by Lorna Van Ackeren, Hillendale Home Care Contra Costa Health Services has Dr. Martin received her bachelor’s Reaching the golden years should be a In California, as many as 50,000 cases arranged for Dr. Joyce Martin, PsyD to Degree in Psychology from University of time to enjoy life with family and friends of Elder Abuse go unreported every present a free seminar on depression in California, Berkeley. She holds a mas- and not a time of fear or worry. However, month. Current estimates suggest that as older adults at the Concord Senior Center ter’s Degree and her Doctoral Degree approximately 1 in 10 Americans aged few as 1 in 14 cases of elder and depen- on Thursday, June 7 form 10:00 a.m. to in Clinical Psychology from John F. 60+ have experienced some form of elder dent adult abuse is reported, including 11:00 a.m. The seminar will clarify Kennedy University. She is a licensed abuse. fewer than 1 in 25 incidents of financial the differences between normal clinical psychologist for Contra Costa The month of June is recognized abuse because the victims are ashamed, sadness, grief and loss, and clin- County with a primary expertise in internationally as Elder Abuse Aware- hopeless, intimidated, or afraid of the ical depression. Attendees will Geropsychology, which is a spe- ness Month and is a call to action to raise perpetrator. learn the causes of depression cialty that focuses on patients age awareness and understanding of elder It is up to caring neighbors and com- and how to identify its signs and 55 and older. Dr. Martin’s passion abuse, neglect and exploitation. munity members to be on the lookout for symptoms. The discussion will is to help people as they age to To help raise attention and awareness older adults who are vulnerable and inca- also identify various types of live independently and not be of Elder Abuse here in Contra Costa pable of protecting themselves. Unex- treatment for depression institutionalized for as long County, Hillendale Home Care is partner- plained changes in behavior or personal and share valuable as possible. ing with Ombudsman Services of Contra hygiene, bruises, lack of clean clothes, resources on how There is limited Costa and EHSD and invites you to attend unpaid bills, change in alertness and to get help for seating. To register a Senior Resource Fair on Friday, June unusual depression can all suggest abuse. someone who may call Dario at (925) 29th at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center Recognizing these signs is the first step be depressed. Special 671-3320. Concord from 10:00 - 11:30. Light refreshments toward the prevention of elder abuse. points of interest will Senior Center is lo- will be served and there will be many The issue of elder abuse is a critical cover depression, anxiety, cated at 2727 Parkside local resources for Seniors with represen- concern as Contra Costa County’s aging isolation, loneliness, and Circle. tatives on hand to answer your questions. population continues to grow at a rapid grief and loss. The Pleasant Hill Senior Center is located rate. Elder and dependent adult abuse at 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. is a serious and growing crisis in Con- Abusers are both women and men. In tra Costa County with a 9% increase in almost 60% of elder abuse and neglect reporting this past year. incidents, the perpetrator is a family If an older adult is in immediate, member. Two thirds of perpetrators are life-threatening danger, call 911. Anyone adult children or spouses. As individuals who suspects that an older adult is being age and have less mobility and indepen- mistreated should contact Adult Protec- dence, they are more susceptible to elder tive Services 24-hour hotline at 1-877- abuse. 839-4347 or 925-602-4179, Ombudsman Abuse doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Services of Contra Costa and Solano at Often one type of abuse leads to another. 925-685-2070, or your local law enforce- Victims often suffer from multiple forms ment or emergency service agencies. of abuse at the hand of their abusers. Help ensure that older adults are given Elder abuse takes many forms, some the respect and justice they deserve. more obvious than others and includes Know abuse. Report abuse. For more self-neglect, financial abuse, physical information on the Senior Resource Fair abuse, neglect by others, mental abuse please contact lvanackeren@hillendale. and sexual abuse. net.

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CALL TO LEARN HOW WE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS (925) 298-9990 Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 6 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990 computercorner Tech in by William Claney, Computers USA English Out to Lunch Can 33 Cents Buy Peace of Mind? DELI STYLE Perhaps you’ve heard it a deleted or encrypted drives, by Richard Eber million times to back up your motherboard fails, human data. You have always thought error, on and on. It’s all right When it comes to writing about Italian and sauces which are also sold in other that data loss is not going to there. Delis, the cry of “more research is need- venues. During lunch hours, it may take happen to you. What is data The methods of backup ed” can be heard from me as I ponder several minutes after grabbing a red anyway and why should I are simple enough and I will where to venture next. ticket to be served, but the time spent bother to spend 33 Cents to outline a few here. However, Fortunately, in Concord, Walnut Creek is worth it. Choose among different get all my backups done? the most important part of and Clayton, we are blessed with several rolls and an endless list of different deli Data is technically zeros this admonishment is, go do places that provide quality deli faire. I meats, cheeses, and toppings. The result and ones (0 and 1’s) stored on it. First, the simplest way to am not referring to the many deli chains is a thick, tasty sandwich that for most of your hard drive (disk) or solid state drive backup is to corral all your data under and grocer departments in our area such Genoa’s patrons is a hearty meal. (disk storage with no moving parts). the Microsoft folder Documents. Once as the Subways, Togos, Jimmy Johns, Morucci’s Deli, also in Walnut Creek, The patterns of zeros and ones make up your data is all in one place, plug in a even Safeways, each of varying quality, is a hidden gem, literally. It’s located off words, pictures, music and everything USB media (external hard drive or flash but they all seem to lack the familiar the beaten track under the Hwy 24/680 you store on your computer, they are drive, for examples), select the open smell of salami, garlic, olive oil, roasted interchange on Boulevard Way, hindered called bits. If your bits, ones and zeros, Documents page, type CTRL A (hold meats and freshly prepared salads when by limited neighborhood parking. Nev- are gone, ALL YOUR DATA IS GONE. control key CTRL down and click “A”). entering the premises. ertheless, it enjoys a deserved popularity. Perhaps, you should think about how That highlights everything, right click I prefer the old Italian-style deli Be aware, there are long lines after 11:45 you would recover from a disaster like your mouse on the highlighted area and and charm. When I walk in the door a.m. I always arrive early, especially losing everything. Sometimes data can select COPY. Open the external backup at Luigi’s across from Concord Bart, when taking my 98-year-old Mom to be retrieved easily, for example let’s say device, right click and select PASTE. the familiarity immediately reminds lunch there. She is a turkey breast gal you lost your power supply, by replacing Done. Do this every day. of Molinari’s in San Francisco’s North who is always gratified at Morucci’s the power supply your computer should Ok, less simple but more effective is Beach. Even though its founder Luigi because they roast their birds fresh each boot (startup). However, if your hard to use an app or program that does the sold the business several years ago when day. The salads, sandwiches, and pastries drive fails it could spell trouble for all backup for you. Something like Two he retired, his presence lives on. His they serve are all high quality and fairly those ones and zeros. Did you know you Bright Sparks is a good backup program mother’s recipes for rigatoni, lasagna, priced. could lose a zero bit and your whole hard for the novice. Download for free, buy and anti-pasta, polenta, crab, potato, and While most chained establishments drive is useless? Think about that, your as needed. Learn to use it. Check it pasta salads continue to delight. Their pre-make the contents of their sandwich- drive stores millions of those bits and it frequently. Done, mostly. signature sandwiches in the $10.00 es and use scales to assure that patrons takes just one to screw up everything. Better yet is to use a cloud service like range are worth every cent (or should equally receive a strict (thin) portion of Not even the local high school geek can Drop Box. Download the software for I say scent). They come thick and tasty meats, cheeses, and other toppings with fix it. free and setup the desired data sets to with Italian names such as ‘Enrico Caru- each order, my deli picks do an excellent Computers fail frequently, and my back up and let the cloud store it. Done, so, Mario Lanza, and Placido Domingo to job in providing a high-quality dining best advice is to learn how to protect to a degree. adorn them. experience that is heavy on ingredients. yourself with a backup because you’re Best, use a service that does it all Just down the street on Clayton Road, There is, however, one place that going to need it. Bring up Bing (like for you. Install the software for you, you can find a smaller version of Luigi’s stands out in Clayton next to the bocce Google browser but not as nosey) and identifies all data sets that need to be called The Parma Deli. It has been ball courts. One must experience Cane- query, “how often do computers fail.” backed up, monitors the progress daily, around for over 20 years. It is a family sa’s Brooklyn Heros. What sets them The quick answer is “frequently.” We sends you reports by email, stores data run operation with Mary and her son, apart from their worthy competition estimate 40% of computers will fail off-site. There’s no fuss, no muss – Done Sam, at the controls. Parma cooks up is owner John Canesa. John does not in their lifetime. Everything from the right way for 33 Cents. Ask me how. some of the best deli foods around which deviate from his formula of success. This cracked screens, failed power supplies, 925-672-9989. are also available for their catering busi- means East Coast Pastrami, homemade defective drives, data corruption, ness. Their cole slaw and chicken salad is meatballs, tomato onion vinaigrette, top-notch as are the homemade meatball a drop dead crushed olive mixture, sandwiches dripping with cheese and and soft sub rolls, with no exceptions marinara sauce. All of Parma’s sand- allowed. The obtuse, sometimes “in your wiches are filled with generous layers of face” Brooklyn persona of Canesa is part fresh meat. A good introduction to Par- of the show, but his sandwich creations ma Deli is Tri-Tip Wednesday for a BBQ tell the whole story. His Fat Clemanza sandwich of high quality, medium-rare features ham, salami, coppa, sopesstta, meat served with all the fixings. lettuce, provolone, bathed in his famous In Walnut Creek, Genoa Delicatessen tomato mixture and is excellent. Canesa located on Treat Blvd. near Bancroft and embodies and delivers 25 other choices off Olympic Blvd. continues to provide all which equally honor the creativity and quality food in the best tradition of love of New York style delis. Italian cuisine. In addition to all the In my estimation, they provide the salads, antipasto, and prepared meals best sandwiches in the region… but as that surpass most of the competition, I said at the start of this article, “more Genoa makes up a line of raviolis, pastas, research is needed.”

ROP/CTE Students of Excellence Awards Honors Local Students The Contra Costa County Office of Ed- Alhambra High School -Aidan LaHonta, ucation (CCCOE) honored 43 high school Construction Technology; Sam Millson, students, from 25 schools in Contra Costa Creative Writing; Josh Peacock, Auto and Alameda counties with the Students Technology of Excellence Awards for their outstanding Las Lomas High School - Cristina Gar- achievement in their ROP/CTE (Regional cia, Medical Technologies Occupational Program / Career Techni- Northgate High School - Tracy Pan, cal Education) classes. These students Sports Medicine; Jack Wise, Journalism were awarded a certificate of merit and a Productions $300.00 scholarship courtesy of monetary The Contra Costa County ROP/CTE donations provided by Chevron, Phillips serves nearly 12,000 students annually 66, John Muir Health, Walnut Creek Hon- with classes in 34 high schools throughout da, C & H Sugar. C Contra Costa and Alameda counties. Cur- Congratulations to the following rently, there are 383 state-of-the-art career outstanding students from our local high development classes in this program. ROP/ schools. CTE focuses on career preparation and Clayton Valley Charter High School - exploration, hands-on experience, and ac- Georgia Moraes, Developmental Psycholo- ademic excellence to prepare students for gy of Children success in college and future careers. ROP/ Concord High School -Karla Avalos, CTE provides students with the newest Computer Applications; Medaja Elias, equipment, rigorous academic standards, Accounting; Meagan McBride, Advanced and classes in emerging technologies. All of Photography the ROP/CTE classes and programs are di- Ygnacio Valley High School – Sara Her- rected by and funded through the CCCOE. nandez, Careers in Teaching Internship Canesa’s Brooklyn Heroes Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 7 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990 Your 2018 Guide to Bay Area Events The Diablo Gazette’s ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Viewsby Tillie Turner of Photos the by Micah Valley

Soldiers awarded medals to runners at the finish line of the Armed Forces Half Marathon during the Memorial Day Celebration in Downtown Concord, May 26. Treasures. Quinn picks up some fine literature at Cartoonist Tom Bleland sketching at Flying Colors Flying colors; an autographed copy of Tom Bleland’s in Conocrd. He also made a Black Panther cartoon Black Panther cartoon and a copy of the Diablo comic cover for fans. Gazette.

A big night of celebration for Contra Costa County teachers if the year at an Oakland A’s game. Mary Lou Helix, in the blue hat, decorated hats for her friends Alice Rasmussen, Lee Reed, Freda Cornelia, Maureen Bell and Laurie Lopez to wear at the Concord Historical Society’s Spring Tea May 5th.

3rd Annual PAWS de Tutu Dog Festival Diablo Ballet presents its 3rd annual provided by Pet Food Express. Diablo Ballet PAWS de Tutu dog festival on June 23 from dancer, Amanda Farris, will be in costume 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at the Lafayette Reservoir. to pose for pictures with guests. Dog owners and dog lovers are invited to All proceeds from PAWS de Tutu benefit join and celebrate Diablo Ballet’s PEEK all things dogs, Program (Perform- while raising ing Arts Education money for a great and Enrichment cause. for Kids). PEEK Registered provides in-school guests will be movement curricu- treated to the lum and free dance popular dog performances to costume com- students and fami- petitions, along lies in under-served with demos by areas who have few the Contra Costa opportunities to Sherriff’s K-9 participate in the unit, a DOGA arts. In 2015, Diablo (Dog Yoga) demo Ballet extended the by Molly Fox and program to provide a dog training arts education to Artist Mick Gray is signing and drawing picture in the Flying Colors sketch book. Mick Gray has been an demo by Oh Behave! Dog Training. The teenagers incarcerated within the Contra inker for DC Comics since 1990. His many projects include, Return of Bruce Wayne, The Shield, the Joker graphic novel, Supergirl & The Legion of Super-Heroes, Zatanna, Promethea, Son of Superman and many main event is the popular dog costume com- Costa County juvenile justice system. more! He also teaches Comic Book Inking at Academy of Art University SF. petition, along with dog adoptions by ARF Anyone interested in attending, should and Rocket Dog Rescue, performances by register online at www.diabloballet.org as STARS 2000’s cast of “Legally Blonde The participation is limited. Admission is only BE SURE TO TELL OUR ADVERTISERS THAT YOU SAW THEM IN Musical,” plus many vendors, snacks and $10 per person. The fee to enter the cos- coffee provided by Don Francisco’s. For the tume competition is: $20 per person which THE DIABLO GAZETTE third year, Charly Kayle, radio personality includes admission. All registered guests most recently with 96.5 KOIT Radio, will be receive a goodie bag filled with sponsor (925) 298-9990 the guest emcee. coupons, dog treats and snacks. Dog owners are invited to dress up their www.DiabloGazette.com dogs and enter the dog costume competi- tions. The top three will win great prizes CALENDAR Starts on Page 9.... Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 8 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990 Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Presents Checks and Scholarship

On May 8th the GFWC Clayton Valley Woman’s Club held their Celebration of Giving at Diamond Terrace in Clayton. Each May, the Club presents monies raised by past fund-raising activities to selected community organizations. This year, checks were presented to Winter Nights and Contra Costa ARC, Di- amond Terrace, Clayton Library, Clayton Historical Society and Concord Historical Society. The Club also provides a Diablo Valley College scholarship for a woman with a Club members give time, money and financial need, excellent grades, commu- items to various organizations throughout nity involvement and leadership skills who the year such as: Read Across America, is transferring to a four-year university Vision Screening, Blue Star Mom’s, Heifer to pursue a degree. Melanie Carniglia, a International and Pennies for Pines. The May 2018 graduating student from Diablo Club meets the second Tuesday of every Valley College, was selected to be the month except July and August at St. Clayton Valley Woman’s Club scholarship John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Rd. recipient. She has been accepted into San in Clayton. Guests are welcome to attend Francisco State University as a psychology meetings and social events. www.clayton- major with a goal of becoming a licensed valleywomansclub.org. psychologist. She plans to advocate for women’s mental and physical health in the Photo courtesy of CVWC, L to R: Mela- future. She is currently a member of Al- nie Carniglia, Scholarship Recipient; Bill pha Gamma Sigma Honor Society at DVC Shaw, Judy Stillman, Will McGarvey, Winter and holds the office of Club Historian. The Nights; Carol Mcrary, Tiffany Speerbrecker, Clayton Valley Woman’s Club is proud to Contra Costa ARC; Karen Hansen-Smith, present her with this scholarship to help Clayton Community Library; Karen Mangini, her further her education. Lind Higgins, Concord Historical Society. Readers Rants & Raves “Thank you for doing such a will do much to help us in meeting great job on the Main Street Arts our goal. You have always been a upcoming show “Under Pressure.” wonderful supporter of White Pony ~ Pam M., Martinez Express, and it is much appreciat- ed.” ~Steve S. Pleasant Hill “I just want to say thanks to Eric for his wonderful Secret Service “Your article “Reactions When story and accompanying tribute to You’re Threatened” (Diablo Ga- First Lady Barbara Bush appear- zette, May) regarding the Concord ing in the latest copy of the Diablo fire should have been titled, “What Gazette. Both were wonderful and Not to Do in a Fire… really, cov- heartfelt to read.” ering the fire alarm with a blanket ~Brian A., Concord and packing your makeup? Thank God there were no causalities.” [Re: “Paint Parties Make Crafty ~Sam S. Clayton entertainment, Diablo Gazette, April 2018] “This brought happy “Keep up the good work!” ~Doug tears to my eyes. Thank you so Prutton, Attorney, Concord much, I love it!” ~Becky R. Con- cord “After the event at Flying Colors Comics with DC Comic artist Liam Sharp, for his birthday, we pre- “I would like to thank you for in- sented him an issue of the Diablo cluding an article in the May 2018 Gazette with the published photo edition of Diablo Gazette about of him at the store. (April, 2108)” White Pony Express and its match ~Mrs. Field, Concord grant challenge. It is much appre- ciated. The match fund challenge is very important for our efforts in The Diablo Gazette looks forward to eliminating hunger and poverty in all comments from our readers. Please email: [email protected] Contra Costa County. Your article Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 9 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990 CALENDAR June 16 FUNDRAISERS Pleasant Hill: Firecracker 5K Fun Run. Highway 21: The Farm Road That aRt Cottage Pancake Breakfast - Supporting Veter- 8:00am Firecracker 5K run. (all ages) Became An Interstate History talk June Jubilee Celebration showing ans of Foreign Wars – 2nd and 4th Sun- 9:30am Parade start Downtown on and book signing, 2:00pm – 3:30pm. abstract pieces with vibrant colors from days includes eggs, pancakes, sausage, Crescent Drive. The CCC Historical Society presents the newly merged Las JuntaS - East Bay beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. Willow Pass Road, 10:30-1:30pm Music, Fun & Games at local historians John Mercurio and Steve Artist Guild, Robert Bradley, and Walter Concord $5 buys a terrific breakfast. Pleasant Hill Park, FREE stage entertain- Minnear. Hear the fascinating events Crew. http://www.vfwpost1525.org ment, kids games, Watermelon eating that characterized life along former CA June 9 2p-4p Artist Reception in- contest, climbing wall, bounce events, State Hwy 21 (from Martinez to Sunol). cludes music, wine, and food. 2238 Mt. June 1-8 community booths, and more. Admission and parking are free. Refresh- Diablo Blvd. Concord Healthy Over Hungry Cereal Drive 1:00-4:30pm Cool Off at Aquatic Park. ments will be served. RSVP requested. Donations of healthy cereal will be 7:45 Live entertainment Email: [email protected] or Call: Summer Music Camp collected at San Ramon Regional Med- 9:15 Fireworks! At College Park High (925) 229-1042. $10 donation. All pro- July 9-13 9AM-noon. All children in the ical Center. All donations will stay local School - For information, parade applica- ceeds benefit the preservation work of the community entering K-5th grades are and will benefit the Food Bank of Contra tion or to volunteer, visit www.phjuly4. Contra Costa County archives. Campbell invited to this secular music camp. Learn Costa & Solano and Alameda County com. Theater, 636 Ward Street, Martinez. For music basics including rhythm instru- Community Food Bank. All financial more information, visit www.cocohistory. ments and their voices. Mid-morning donations made during the campaign will July 28 com snack. $40 per child/$60 per family. be matched by Tenet Healthcare, up to Bus tours of former Concord Scholarships available. Clayton Valley $100,000. Weapons Station. A free “first-come, June 29 Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass first-served” public bus tours of the base Senior Resource Fair at the Pleasant Road, Clayton. To register or for more June 16 reuse project on Saturday, July 28. The Hill Senior Center from 10:00 - 11:30. information, please call 672-4848. 2018 Sculpture in the Garden -Ruth two-hour tours to see where new housing, Hillendale Home Care is hosting a Senior Bancroft Gardens will be opening their retail and office buildings are planned on Resource Fair to help raise attention and June 6 - July 1 annual Sculpture Show fundraiser with the property, as well as the Mt. Diablo awareness of Elder Abuse in Contra Costa Main Street Art Show - Artist 5 is a gala cocktail party between 5:30 and Creek Restoration Project, tournament County. Many local resources for Seniors a group of 5 artists: Lynn Glenn Jan 8:30 P.M. Enjoy live music and drinks sports park, and a regional park. 9 with representatives on hand to answer Lainoff, Pam McCauley, Roberta Mil- while meandering down gorgeous garden a.m. and 12 noon. Starts from Concord questions. Refreshments. 233 Gregory stead, and Dee Tivenan, five lives, five paths adorned with a display of art and Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. Make a Lane, Pleasant Hill. views they want to share with you. Wine sculptures created by Bay Area artists. reservation. To learn more, visit www. and appetizer reception on June 9th Cost $30-$35 to benefit the Garden and concordreuseproject.org. from 5 to 7. 613 Main Street, Martinez. support the research and education done VISUAL ARTS/ Wednesday to Saturday 11 to 5 and Sun- at the Garden. 1552 Bancroft Road. day 10 to 2. www.ruthbancroftgarden.org/event THEATRE/MUSIC CLUB/SUPPORT June 7-23 OUTDOORS GROUPS’ NEWS Concord Pavilion “A Doll’s House” - by Henrik Ibsen. June 13 Chicago & REO Speedwagon Adapted for B8 Theatre company by Annie Potter. Performances: Concord: Todos Santos Park OFF the AND EVENTS June 21 Chris Brown Preview - Thursday, June 7 at 8pm Grid Mondays. offering cuisine from June 22 Kevin Hart June 9 Fridays/Saturdays, June 8-9; 15-16; 22- around the world from 5 to 9 p.m. Full July 1 Spirit West Coast with Mercy Me Publisher Brooke Warner will 23 at 8pm; Saturday/Sunday matinees, lineup available at http://offthegridsf. July 14 Kidz Bop Live discuss “Hybrid Publishing” at the June 10; 16-17; 23 at 1pm. Ticket ranges: com. July 24 Imagine Dragons next meeting of the Mt. Diablo branch, August 11 comedy Get Down $15 - $25 . 292 Concord Blvd, Concord. Farmers’ Markets California Writers Club at Zio Fraedo’s August 18 Steve Miller Band Tickets $15-$20. b8theatre.org. (925) Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant August 24 Avenged Sevenfold with 890-88877. Concord Tuesdays, 10am to 2pm, year- Hill. Hybrid publishing has been called round, rain or shine. • Prophets of Rage “the best of both worlds” appealing to June 23 Martinez Sundays, 10am to 2pm, year- August 28 Rob Zombie and Marilyn authors and self-publishers. Sign-in starts PAWS de Tutu, a dog costume competi- round, Main St. and Estudillo. Manson at 11:00 am. Registration is $25 for CWC tion and parade to benefit Diablo Ballet’s Walnut Creek Diablo Valley Farmers members, $30 for guests. Reservations PEEK Outreach programs. 9 a.m. – 11 Market Saturday 9a.m. - 1 p.m. Shad- Clayton Concerts in the Grove are required, and must be received no a.m. at the Lafayette Reservoir. Dress up elands Business Park, N. Wigett Lane and June 9th - Take 2 Dance Band later than noon on Wednesday, June 6th. your pup to win amazing prizes. Demos, Mitchell Dr. Also, from June 23rd – The Fundamentals To reserve, go to http://cwcmtdiablow- dog adoption, and dog performances, Contra Costa Certified Farmers July 7th – Pride and Joy riters.org. snacks and fun. All participants inter- Market - North Locust St between Gia- July 21st - Southern Comfort ested in attending must register at www. mona and Lacassie St. Sundays 9 am - 1 August 4th - Diamond Dave June 10 August 18th - Apple Z diabloballet.org. pm, Year Round, (925) 431-8361 http:// Ms. Betty Reid Soskin activist, sing- www.cccfm.org September 1st - Steel ‘n’ Chicago er, author, composer, and US’s oldest September 15th – East Bay Mudd June 24 serving National Park Ranger will speak Concerts in the Garden 7:00 p.m. June 9-10 about her life and book “Sign My Name The Romance Trio, a collaboration of Summer in San Francisco Crystal Pleasant Hill Summer Concert Se- to Freedom: A memoir of a Pioneering classical virtuosos on cello, harp and Fair Fort Mason Center, Bldg A, 2 ries Thursdays 6:30-8:30 in the plaza in Life.” Light Refreshments. 1pm-3pm at flute. Enjoy an enchanting selection of Marina Blvd. at Buchanan, San Francisco. front of jack’s Restaurant and Bar. the Shell Club House 1635 Pacheco Bou- classical favorites including Bach, Elgar, Hours: Saturday 10-6; Sunday 10-4 Jun 7 East Bay Mudd levard, Martinez. Reservations required: Piazzola, and more! The Gardens at Admission $12 (good for 2 days - each in Jul 5 Flletwood Mask RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, party) Children 12 and under free with Aug 2 Top Shelf Classics betty-reid-soskin-author-composer-activ- Walnut Creek. Tickets: $40 per person parent. Spet. 6 Illeagles ist-singer-tickets-45788457509. per show. Tickets available online at gardenshf.org or by phone at (925) 947- June 12 1678. Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery For complete listings visit us Online: (MDRR) sixth annual free Summer www.DiabloGazette.com Camp. Camp sessions will include a tour of their 90,000-square-foot recycling facility and recycling trucks, recycling June 29 games and an interactive activity about Jazz Room - Jubilee Road with Paul the 5 R’s (Reduce-Reuse-Recycle-Re- McNight. 8 p.m. Repertoire includes spect-Recover). From 10 am to 12 noon, pop, folk, bluegrass, and indie music plus at the Mt. Diablo Resource Recovering covers of Tom Petty, Alison Krauss, and facility located at 1300 Loveridge Road in jJames Taylor. They’re all about pleasing Pittsburg. Calif. The camp is free, though harmonies. At Village Theatre 233 Front reservations are limited to 25 children St. Danville. Tickets $15-30. 925-314- per session. 3400. ww.vilagetheatreshows.com. June 13 Classic Car show and music. 6pm - July 12-15 8pm. Main Street Clayton. Free. Spontaneous Shakespeare! at the Lesher Center for the Arts. This is a com- July 4 Celebrations & Festivities pletely-improvised, full-length comedy in Concord: 150th Anniversary! the style of William Shakespeare. Four 6:45 a.m. Concord Police Association performances, Thursday – Saturday at Stars and Stripes Run 8:15 pm and on Sunday at 3:15 pm. 10:00 a.m. Parade. followed by unveiling of a statue of Don Salvio Pacheco SUBMIT YOUR LISTINGS and 1 pm - 4pm Ice Cream social upcoming events for inclusion in the 4 p.m. Fireworks Stop by Mt. Diablo High next issue. Email: info@diabloga- School for an afternoon of family activi- zette.com by the 15th of each month. ties, then stay for fireworks! Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 10 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990 Journey-man’s Journal A 9-Day Tour of by John Cooper the Southwest I love Daisy Mae. She’s everything one we found out Bryce Canyon Nation- you’d ever want in a travel companion. later. al Park, Utah was also She’s slim and sleek and light on her Fresh back from an amazing National feet, and she can carry her own weight the repair shop Park featuring natural without any complaints. She’s fun to be with a new air con- red and orange forma- around and fits in well in every situation. ditioner and other tions called “Hoodoos”. Daisy Mae is comfortable spending the rooftop parts rein- We spent some time day by the lake and she’s the perfect stalled, we loaded hiking along the Navajo companion on cold rainy nights. I’m up Daisy Mae Trail which offered a speaking of course of my new RV, and with everything closeup and personal we needed for a observation of the Hoo- 9-day trip around doos and the sparsely the Southwest to populated trees precari- visit renowned ously hanging onto life, vacation desti- seemingly defying what nations such as you might otherwise Lake Mead, the think possible. Grand Canyon, No trip is complete of Horseshoe Bend, course without stopping Lake Powell, at an old tavern, so we Zion National sidestepped our way out Park and Bryce of Las Vegas for a visit Canyon National to the hundred-year-old Park. Pioneer Saloon in the Following a former mining town of brief side trip Goodsprings, Nevada. and tour of Calico Built in 1913 and still Ghost Town, a running strong, the former mining Pioneer Saloon is a great town from the place with an eclectic late 1800’s, locat- group of patrons. Where ed in the hot and else can a group of bik- dry mountains ers and a members-only of the Mojave Ferrari club saddle up Desert, we set our to a bar for a beer and sights on Lake conversation? The popu- like any favorite vehicle, she’s deserving Mead, Nevada. lation of Goodsprings of a good name. Less than an is 229 (as of the last My wife, Teresa, and I had been plan- hour outside of Las census) and for good ning a tour of the Southwest for several Vegas, Lake Mead reason. Without the Canyon was impressive as it extended in months and as our departure date ap- is the largest reservoir in the United Pioneer Saloon there’s little else to see either direction as far as we could see. proached, we’d been spending some time States. It was formed with the construc- aside from a handful of vacant homes More impressive however was the sheer in our RV on shorter trips to get used to tion of the Hoover Dam, an enormous and buildings. insanity of so many visitors who man- pulling a large heavy vehicle in tow. And engineering feat. We set up camp and Traveling nearly 2,500 miles in a long aged to pose for photos while standing practice was a good thing as we recent- spent the evening watching sail boats week made for a whirlwind of a trip. precariously on questionable footing just ly learned while pulling our 12’ tall RV slowly make their way back to the dock Our objective was to see as much of the inches away from a thousand-foot drop- through a 10’ tall car wash. That was an while the sun set over the lake. southwest country as possible and make off. I had to purchase a book entitled, expensive lesson, but not an uncommon The scale and enormity of the Grand notes of those areas and National Parks “Over the Edge: Death in Grand Canyon” that we’d like to revisit, explore and which chronicled all known deaths in spend more time in the future. To that the National Park, many of which, not end, we’ll certainly plan another trip to surprisingly, have been slips and falls. spend more time in both Zion and Bryce A short drive from the Grand Can- Canyon National Parks. yon, and just outside of Page, Arizona is Horseshoe Bend, and just as the name implies, the Colorado River carved a Photos: John and Teresa at Zion horseshoe shaped landscape into the National Park, Horseshoe Bend, on the canyon, which makes for a spectacular edge of Grand Canyon, and exploring sight. I’ve seen photos of Horseshoe the “Hoodoos” at Bryce Canyon, UT. Bend before, but it’s altogether some- thing far more spectacular to see in person. Driving along the banks of Lake Powell while working our way toward Zion National Park, we quickly understood why Lake Powell is such a popular destination for boat- ers with beautiful views in all directions of the mountains and canyons. Like much of southwestern Utah, Zion National Park offered amazing perspec- tives of its many mountain cliffs, canyons, and mesas made of Navajo Sandstone. While exploring the park on our mountain bikes we took a short side trip down a steep single-track trail to a quiet unpopulated stream to cool off and take in the unobstructed views of Zion’s surrounding monoliths. Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 11 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990 Alive and Laughing, Rafting on the Stanislaus by Robin Gigoux Once upon a summertime, I went and skill of our guides, soaked by icy whitewater rafting on the Stanislaus splashing water. River with my pal Sue and other friends. Two people got bounced off. One got We have a good time when we travel wedged in an eddy between boulders together. We laugh a lot. until a guide in another raft pulled him Organized recreational California river out. The other careened downriver on rafting appears to have begun in the her back, feet first, until rescued in calm mid-1970s. Rafting season generally runs water. from April-September. Trips cater to the “OMG, OMG, I’m going to die!” I timid and to the adventurous and include thought. “I’m going to drown, crack my a guide, except for those advertised skull or break my legs.” I wanted to as self-guided. They range from a few share my fear, but the roar of the rapids hours to a few days. More than eleven and screams of others made conversation providers offer rafting on twelve major impossible. I was alone with my terror. rivers in Northern California. Several, The flotilla of rafts stopped for a break including Sunshine, claim upwards of 30 near caves that we could wade into. This years’ experience. was very cool, a good place to get my The night before our day on the river, heartrate down. Then back on the river Sue, I and others crowded into a room we go, OMG. at a weathered motel near the river. We Most of us were sunburned, exhausted stayed up late consuming adult beverag- but alive and unbroken when our guides es and debating the weather, the rapids, paddled into a predetermined disembar- the rafts and the guides. Most had rafted kation point, anchoring somewhat per- before, but I was a newbie. I cringed at pendicular to the bank. While the group the thought of navigating rapids. disembarked to the left or upstream, Sue side. Descending into the black and slimy I continued to laugh so hard our sides After an abbreviated night’s sleep, and I disembarked to the right. No-one gunk, now up to our armpits, we were hurt. we headed for the river early morning. else disembarked to the right. Sue and I facing death, yet we were laughing hys- Whitewater rafting was a thrilling We carpooled to the bus stop where we were probably cracking jokes when the terically at the absurdity of the situation. experience. The guides were terrific. The would be transported in rickety old bus- guides were giving instructions. No doubt counting heads, our bronzed trip was loads of fun and the scenery was ses to the chaotic launch site upstream. Letting ourselves over the side of the and muscled guide finally realized beautiful as it floated by. I highly recom- Six to eight people were assigned to each raft into shallow water, our feet touched we were missing and came around to mend the experience for lovers of such inflated rubber raft, including a guide at down on a silty, oozy river bottom. Sue our side of the raft. Along with anoth- thrills and chills, but I advise following the rear. and I joked about the color and texture of er guide, they quickly produced long the few rules to be safe. Before launching, our guide advised us the muck under our feet. It was like soft, boards, laid them over the muck, and For information about rafting on the to grip the inside bottom of the raft with oily fireplace soot. The harder we tried to crawled out on their bellies to pull us to Stanislaus River, contact Sunshine Raft- our toes, slipping them into small loops find solid footing, the more we laughed… safety. Not an easy task, as the muck was ing Adventures, www.raftadventure.com. there, because the huge, curved, air-filled and sank. City-bred, I never believed intent on sucking us in. Sue lost a shoe. sides were virtually impossible to hold quicksand was a real thing, but reality Once on shore, covered with stinky Robin Gigoux, humor and reflection onto. I quivered with exhilaration and quickly became evident. Extending our sooty-looking muck, the guides gave us inspired by personal experience. Author dread. arms like pontoons, we thought we’d five minutes to find a safe spot along the as Peechi Keane: “Chronicles of an And off we hurtled down the river stop sinking, but nope. river to wash off before boarding the bus. Occupational Prostitute, A Workplace at increasing speed, darting past some No-one could see us on the down- Without soap, that muck still clung to survival Story” and contributing author rocks, skimming rapidly over others; stream side of the raft. No-one could our skin and clothes, and we stank. Once of “Insight, Hindsight, & Flights of Fan- cy”, an anthology. sideswiping downed trees and other hear us shouting for help over the din of on the bus, others steered clear. Given vegetation, guided by the rapid current people disembarking on the upstream the nose-holding and stares, Sue and Weekend Warrior: Thru-Hiking Mt. Diablo Range - A 3-Day Staycation Adventure by Scott Feuer Mount Diablo State in Walnut Creek with my backpack and nesting peregrine falcons which were caves of Rock City. Park is surrounded by trekking poles ready to begin my solo th- successfully reintroduced back into the Making way to Oyster Point Trail over 50 other preserves ru-hike. The spring rains had nourished area during the 1990s. I veered south through beautiful chaparral and sweep- encompassing a region- a thick blanket of tall vivid green grasses on Little Yosemite Trail up to the open ing surrounding views, I pass a lone al open space system which practically concealed the begin- oak savannah grasslands finally reaching hiker who became the only person I saw nearing 160 square ning of the trail. After a few minutes Rock City at Fossil Ridge. for the next 24 hours on this single-track miles that was inter- of searching, I found the 18- inch wide Live Oak campground is typically trail. However, I observed coastal black- laced with almost 700 ribbon of dirt that would become my booked solid during the summer, but tailed deer, cottontail rabbits, butterflies, miles of public trails. home under my feet for the next three this early spring adventure found only and a couple of ring-neck snakes (which Over the last few years, days. Within only a couple of minutes of a handful of campers. I unshouldered are slightly venomous, but completely I had explored much of the Mt. Diablo hiking, the morning dew saturated my my 24 lb. backpack, set up my tent and harmless), not to mention the many State Park through strenuous day hikes, lightweight trail running shoes. Every enjoyed a warm dehydrated cowboy chili species of song birds in the tree canopies summiting all the major peaks and rid- footstep squished with a soggy unnerving stew dinner. Then it was time for a little above. gelines, but never realized the potential sound of slush…and only 15 miles to go. stargazing before crashing to sleep. After a short stop at Jackass Canyon larger network of open space trails one As the sunshine intensified, I navigat- Day Two: I awoke at sunrise, to filter water from Tassajara Creek, could explore. ed through the waist high grasses and stretched my stiff legs, and warmed a I climbed up to Amphitheater Trail With my Mt. Diablo map spread out realized, “Rattlesnakes!” Slowing my cup of coffee with my ultralight camp through the centuries-old oak trees to on the dining table, I contemplated my pace, for the next couple of miles, I ex- stove. Having stuffed my gear into my break for lunch. I found multiple large next weekend-warrior day hike. Could tended my trekking poles in front of me backpack, I was off again meandering up smooth rock outcroppings which were one hike from one side of the map to the and relentlessly waved them back-and- through the sandstone rocks and wind sprinkled with mortar grinding holes other? With a yellow highlighter, I began forth to announce used by Native American Indians. tracing trails south from Lime Ridge my presence, After lying down and watching cloud Open Space in Walnut Creek across the ears attune to the formations overhead, I drifted off western slope of Mt. Diablo to Round sound of rattling. for a quick nap. Then packed up and Valley Regional Preserve on Marsh I successfully continued east. Creek Road. Tallying up the mileage and made my way into The afternoon warmed, and I was studying the topography I estimated the Borges Ranch to continuously gaining elevation. My hike to be about 45 miles with roughly top off my water water supply from the last natural 9,800 feet of elevation gain. supply before spring was almost gone and I had at “Three days, 15 miles a day, that’s heading into Pine least six more miles to go until arriving feasible, although, I would have to camp Canyon. at the next camp. Atop the ridgeline two nights and carry all my food and Pine Canyon’s the possibility of finding a seasonal wa- gear. A baby thru-hike!” I rationalized. steep sandstone ter source to drink from was nearly im- This would provide some good training formations rising possible. According to my map, I could experience to section hike the Mexico to out of valley’s divert a mile downhill to a potential Canada’s Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Over riparian oak wood- seasonal creek in hopes of quenching the next few weeks I prepared logistics lands provided my thirst. The decision was clear. I and collected the necessary supplies, a scenic natural had to find water even though I knew excited to temporarily escape the tense landscape filled the hike out of the valley back to the energy of work deadlines, to-do lists, and with interesting ridgeline would be formidable. other daily routines. geologic fea- The heat persisted with no after- I was dropped off at the trailhead tures, abundant parking lot behind John Muir Hospital wildflowers, and Pine Canyon home to nesting peregrine falcons Warrior continues page 14 Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 12 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990 bookends by Jill Hedgecock,Program Coordinator Mount Diablo California Writer’s movie Club jillhedgecock.com Blog: http://writersotj.wordpress.com review by Sandie Angulo Chen, Common Sense Media The Woman in Cabin 10 Solo: A Star Wars Story The Woman in Cabin 10 4 of 5 stars by Ruth Ware (2017, Gallery/ Scout Press; Reprint edition, “Solo: A Star Wars touch with legendary gambler Lando paperback, 384 pages $9.80) Story” is a stand- alone adventure about a Calrissian (Donald is the perfect book for edge-of- young Han Solo (Alden Glover), who lends his your-seat tension junkies who Ehrenreich) that takes ship in exchange for a enjoy sorting through facts place several years before cut of the action. with an unreliable narrator he teams up with Luke Director Ron at the helm. The mystery of and Leia in “Star Wars Howard’s slick, who exactly is that mysterious Episode IV: A New Hope.” funny prequel captures woman who briefly occupied The movie reveals details Harrison Ford’s smirky, a cruise liner cabin and then about the infamous roguish charisma and suddenly disappeared provides smuggler’s past -- like how fills in several Star Wars further intrigue in this twist- he became the captain of gaps. While purists may the Millennium Falcon and never be fully satisfied and-turn plot that keeps readers how he met legendary with any prequel that guessing until the end. characters like Chewbacca revisits beloved original Laura “Lo” Blacklock has (Joonas Suotamo) and characters. Ehrenreich a problem. Actually, she’s Lando Calrissian (Donald deserves props for rising facing quite a few challenges: Glover). Expect lots of peril, chases, above pure imitation. He and Glover her apartment in England was and action violence, including scenes make their legendary characters their burgled while she was at home, of large-scale ground warfare as well as own, even if audiences must suspend sending her into an emotional executions, shoot-outs, and torture. While disbelief a bit that either man could have tailspin. On top of that, she there’s not much blood overall, characters changed quite that much in just 10 or drinks too much, she’s on anti- do die. There’s also a bit of language, so years. Both are amusingly arrogant some drinking in pubs, and innuendo and self-possessed -- and, in Han’s case, depressants, she’s broken up (plus more kissing than is typical also vulnerable. Yes, it’s compelling with her boyfriend—though she’s for a “Star Wars” film). Han definitely to explore how Han hooked up with not sure about that—and now isn’t always first in line to make the Chewie and Lando, but it’s even more her dream assignment on a posh morally right choice, but ultimately the interesting to uncover the particulars luxury yacht as a reporter for a movie has messages about equal rights of Han’s background, his introduction travel magazine is turning into for all creatures and the importance of to smuggling, and his first (ultimately teamwork, communication, courage, and doomed) love story. the trip from hell. Lo’s penchant scratching their heads. for excessive alcohol consumption friendship. The cast is noticeably diverse, There are several well-performed Ruth Ware brilliantly foretells with many female characters, people of supporting roles, especially the women. and her fragile state from the trauma snippets of future events in the story at of encountering a thief in her home, color, and creatures who have distinct Clarke, who’s best known as the Mother chapter conclusions using social media backgrounds and ideas. of Dragons on Game of Thrones, is immediately sets the stage for readers to in the form of emails and chat rooms of This takes place approximately a great as Han’s often underestimated rally behind the confused young woman. amateur detectives. She also has a talent decade before the events of Star Wars partner in crime. Newton is extremely But her instability also makes it unclear for keeping readers wondering if our Episode IV: A New Hope and follows a effective in her small but pivotal role. if her account of events that involved a narrator is a drunken fool or a broken young Han (Alden Ehrenreich) as he goes And British comedian/TV writer Phoebe body tossed overboard really happened. woman prone to hallucinations. It is no from troublemaking street orphan on Waller-Bridge is hilarious as outspoken his home planet of Corellia to Imperial android rights’ activist L3-37. Bettany is In the spirit of Agatha Christie’s closed surprise that “The Woman in Cabin 10” soldier to intergalactic-smuggler-in- fantastically creepy as a chilling mob boss room whodunits, the list of suspects is was an Instant New York Times and USA limited to the Scandinavian staff and the the-making. As an adolescent, Han and who just wants to get paid, and Harrelson Today bestseller. his girlfriend, Qi’ra (Emilia Clarke), are adds his signature, laid-back style to the ship’s passengers because the person Ruth Ware grew up in Sussex, on the who committed a possible murder is at separated as they attempt to escape a proceedings as Han’s roguish mentor. south coast of England. After graduating crime boss; he’s able to leave, but she’s By the end, audiences will feel even sea. The perpetrator could be anyone, from Manchester University, she moved captured. He vows to come back for her. more intensely for Han Solo, knowing fellow journalists, photographers, and to Paris before settling in North London. Three years later, Han is a soldier in more about his victories and losses as a wealthy people paying for the privilege She is the internationally bestselling the Imperial Army who chances upon a younger man. of participating in the “The Aurora’s” author of “In a Dark, Dark Wood” and younger Chewbecca (Joonas Suotamo), maiden voyage through the Norwegian “The Lying Game” (2017). She is married as well as a motley crew of smugglers led Common Sense Media is an independent by Beckett (Woody Harrelson) and his nonprofit organization offering unbiased fjords. But the list seems to narrow as with two small children. “The Death of partner, Val (Thandie Newton). Han joins ratings and trusted advice to help families clues point in the direction of Lo’s former Mrs. Westaway” is due to be released at boyfriend, Ben, a dashing photographer them on a mission for the Crystal Dawn, make smart media and technology choices. the end of June 2018. Fans of “The Girl a powerful crime syndicate managed by Check out our ratings and recommendations at named Cole Lederer who’s having on the Train” by Paula Hawkins and problems with his wife, or the ship’s head the merciless Dryden Vos (Paul Bettany). www.commonsense.org. “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn will probably The high-stakes heist also puts Han in of security, Johann Nilsson. Still, there enjoy this book. are enough red herrings to keep readers B8 Theatre Premiers a New, Socially-Relevant Adaptation of A Doll’s House by Lisa Fulmer

When JanLee Marshall, Artistic Direc- male roles are cast with African American things outside of the boxes that society tor for B8 Theatre Company, first chose women. “Our adaptation, written by local tends to put things in…it just makes my to produce the 19th century Henrik Ibsen playwright Annie Potter, has just a few heart swell!” Ashley exclaims. classic, A Doll’s House, she knew she significant updates,” Marshall says. “The Nora’s husband, Torvald, is played by wouldn’t do it in the traditional manner. story is set in the United States in 1924, Matthew Gardner. “I’m really excited to “A colleague told me there was no point rather than the original setting of Norway paint this story in a new light. Hopefully in putting on this play at all anymore - in 1879. Annie has done a lovely job of we can help people see things differently,” but I begged to differ,” says Marshall. being true to Ibsen’s work while updating says Gardner. Often referred to as the first feminist all of the women’s backstories.” A Doll’s House opens on June 7th and play, A Doll’s House deals with how a So how does a black woman find runs through June 23rd. Tickets are on woman chooses to rise up despite her self-fulfillment in a country dominat- sale at B8Theatre.org or at the theater, given circumstances. Ibsen himself re- ed by white men? This production of A located at 2292 Concord Blvd. Box office ferred to his then-controversial script as a Doll’s House sheds light on issues of both hours are weekdays 9:30am-12:30pm, or modern tragedy when he wrote it in 1878. gender equity and racial equality that call 925-446-8035 for more information. “A woman cannot be herself in modern continue to pervade our society today. society since it is exclusively male, with Miia Ashley is elated to portray the Lisa Fulmer is a local artist and mar- laws made by men and with prosecutors lead character, Nora. “I’ve studied and keting consultant. She sits on the Board and judges who assess feminine conduct seen this play many times, but I’ve never of Directors for both B8 Theatre Com- from a masculine standpoint.” known of any woman of color being in pany and Concord Art Association and After 140 years, Ibsen’s words are still this role. To be able to break that mold works by committee with Neto Commu- relevant, and even more so with the adap- is so exciting, and to be part of a theater nity Network and Concord Historical tation Marshall is producing - all the fe- company that believes in expanding Society. Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 13 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990

Quotes for the Future by Micah “Spontaneous Shakespeare” “The future ain’t what it used to be.” - Yogi Berra Coming to Lesher Center “The time-traveling is just too dangerous. Better that I de- vote myself to study the other great mystery of the universe - women!” – Back to the Future II “The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time.” - Abraham Lincoln “I never think of the future, it comes soon enough.”- Albert Einstein

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”- Peter F. Drucker “Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.”- Oscar Wilde “Let him who would enjoy a good future waste none of his present.” - Roger Babson “You can never plan the future by the past.”- Edmund Burke “The danger of the past was that men became slaves. The danger of the future is that men may become robots.”- Erich Fromm “Isn’t it a shame that future generations can’t be here to see all the wonderful things we’re doing with their money?” - Earl Wilson

“The future lies in designing and selling computers that Synergy Theater, the folks who brought very low comedy - and naughty too!” people don’t realize are computers at all.”- Adam Osborne you “Spontaneous Noir: An Improvised “Shakespeare made up words,” says re- Piece of Pulp!” is back at the Lesher Cen- cent company member Julie Rubenstein, “I look to the future because that’s where I’m going to spend ter for the Arts in Walnut Creek, and this “Which is great because whenever you time they’re taking on The Bard. “Spon- can’t think of the word you want you can the rest of my life.” -George Burns taneous Shakespeare” is a completely just cerebriate a new one.” improvised two-act comedy in the style of “Shakespeare has it all,” adds Synergy “Eventually, I believe, everything evens out. Long ago, an William Shakespeare. veteran Justin Carns. “Action, comedy, asteroid hit our planet and killed our dinosaurs. But, in the “We do our best to emulate the style magic, romance, and of course, a gift for future, maybe we’ll go to another planet and kill their dino- rather than send it up,” explains Syn- language that’s a lot of fun to try and keep ergy Theater’s Artistic Director, Kenn up with. The guy was good.” saurs.” -Jack Handey Adams. “We read his plays and we try to “Spontaneous Shakespeare” perfor- figure out just what makes Shakespeare mances begin Thursday, July 12 at 8:15 “I’m single. I often think about my future wife and how lax Shakespeare. As it turns out, his plays are p.m. and run through Sunday, July she’s been about getting in touch with me.”-Ted Alexandro full of outrageous comedy. Bawdy humor, 14. Tickets are $20.00 online at www. double-entendres, wild disguises, mis- lesherartscenter.org or by phone at (925) taken identities, broad physical humor, 943-7469. and a lot of very groan-worthy puns and wordplay. He really had a knack for some Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 14 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990

Warrior Continued from page 11.... Sculpture in the Garden Opens in Walnut Creek by Rich Eber the Coyote Trail ravine, On June 16, through old- Ruth Bancroft growth stands Gardens will of majestic be opening coral-red their annual trunked Man- 2018 Sculpture zanita shrubs, in the Garden and up and fundraiser with over the Mi- a gala cocktail wok Trail with party between exceptional 5:30 and 8:30 views of the p.m., in Wal- aquamarine nut Creek. colored Los The art Vaqueros Res- and sculpture ervoir. Once displays come down in the from Bay valley, I brief- Area artists ly detoured in a variety through the Farmhouse off Finley Rd. near Amphitheater Trail, San Ramon expansive of mediums, cow pasture to ceramic, metal, noon winds. As see the Round clay, and more. I reached the Valley backpack The Ruth valley bottom campsite for Bancroft Gar- FEUER’S 3-DAY MEAL PLAN den provides near Sulphur Day One: future reference Springs, I made and enjoyed a the perfect •Snack – Trail Mix/Nuts environment my way through •Lunch – P&J sandwich, Cheese delicious tortilla, a substantial for viewing Crackers, Cookies cheese and salami thicket of Poison makeshift burrito the inspiration •Snack – Power/Sports Bar Oak maneuvering for lunch. Packing of art as you •Dinner – Dehydrated Cowboy Chili cautiously around up for the last meander down ful as the founder of the Gardens, Ruth each branch down Stew, Cookies, Flavored Water time, I headed the gorgeous garden paths. Bancroft passed away last November at to the creek edge. Day Two: off towards the The Sculpture Show kicks off with an the age of 109. Her designs, creativity, To my disgust •Breakfast - Dry Milk, Muesli Cere- incline of Hardy opening night celebration of live music and genius live on in this botanical cathe- the creek was al, Carnation Instant Breakfast Mix, Canyon Trail by Andre Thierry, Italian cuisine, and a dral to her life’s work. extremely shal- Coffee hiking east around chance to sip and stroll while admiring Proceeds from the Sculpture Show low and muddied •Snack – Bagel w/ Nut Butter Spread the last peak and the art-filled garden beds. All pieces are benefit The Ruth Bancroft Garden, a non- with hundreds of •Lunch – Tortillas, Tuna, Babybels back down to the for sale, so if something catches your profit organization in the heart of Walnut wild boar foot- Cheese, Mayo & Mustard Packs, Fla- Round Valley eye, you can buy it that night and take it Creek. The Exhibit will run from June prints scattered vored Water equestrian staging home after the show closes on August 19. 17 - August 19. Tickets priced at $ 30.00 in the evaporating •Snack - Candy Bar, Trail Mix area parking lot However, there will be several pieces of and $35.00 can be found at their website: puddles of water. •Dinner – Top Ramen Noodles w/ for my arranged art displayed in the Garden Nursery that https://www.ruthbancroftgarden.org/ This would be a extraction point Beef Jerky, Cookies, Flavored Water will be available to take home on Opening event/ great commer- and short reverse Day Three: Night. The Ruth Bancroft Garden is located at cial for my water commute drive •Breakfast – Dehydrated Egg Scram- This year’s show is especially meaning- 1552 Bancroft Road. Walnut Creek. purifier filter! I ble and Instant Oatmeal w/ Dried home. had no choice but Fruit, Coffee I accomplished to find the cleanest •Snack – Beef Jerky, Trail Mix/Nuts my goal. A solo depression of •Lunch – Tortillas, Salmi, Cheese thru-hike across remaining water Sticks, Mayo & Mustard Packs, Fla- the Mt. Diablo and refill my water vored Water range, but more bottles. Relieved •Snack – Power/Sports Bar importantly, I dis- to “camel up” and •Dinner – At Home covered one could rehydrate myself, do so in almost I then addressed complete solitude the challenge of while immersed hiking up the steep Jeremiah Trail back to the ridgeline. The hot, treeless, south facing trail certainly dampened my morale; that and sweaty clothes, two days of hiking with no shower, inner thighs chafing with every step, and drinking filtered boar-foot infested water. Note to self, “next time, pack anti-chafing cream, ointment, powder whatever works”. I reached the ridgeline and with a “hiker’s hobble”, I painfully made Near the end, Los Vaqueros Reservoir, Livermore my way to Morgan Backpack Camp. First order of business within a beautiful natural landscape was to wash up with baby wipes, change setting only miles from home. This trip out of my sweaty hiking clothes, and was a definite staycation adventure to conduct some make-shift laundry time remember. Kudos to Save Mount Dia- with a large zip-lock bag and biodegrad- blo and all the other organizations and able soap to prep my clothes for the next volunteers who help protect and manage day of hiking. I ended up having a quiet our local open spaces for all to enjoy. evening enjoying a beef jerky/top ramen For a complete gear list for Scott’s noodle dinner and a few sips of whiskey. thru-hike adventure, look for this story I watched the stars track the night sky at www.diablogazette.com. from the comfort of my down sleeping Scott Feuer passionately enjoys the quilt mesh fabric tent. outdoors via hiking, backpacking, kay- Day Three. I awoke and devoured a aking, fishing, and photography (often dehydrated egg omelet and hot oatmeal going solo). He also enjoys photogra- breakfast then hit the trail early. By phy – see more pictures on his Website around 9:30 am, I wandered into the at https://sefpics.myportfolio.com/ staging parking lot at Morgan Territory Regional Preserve. The last 11 miles lead me down Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 15 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990 legalbriefs by Douglas A. Prutton, Attorney [email protected]

Employee or Independent In case you missed it… Contractor? Be Careful! The unemployment rate in the would establish nationwide standards on Bay Area is below 3 percent in eight of concussion safety, and would encourage In the law, the distinction between an and you do not tell them how to perform the nine Bay Area counties, with Solano schools to develop practices that exceed employee and an independent contractor their jobs. Courts consider many factors County at 3.6% in April, according to the national standards in preventing, detect- California Employment Development De- ing, and treating concussions. DeSaulnier arises in many contexts. Suppose you are in making the distinction between partment. Statewide, the unemployment unveiled the legislation at a Student Con- driving down I-680 and you are struck employees and independent contractors, rate was 4.2 percent, the lowest ever. Na- cussion Prevention Event held at Ygnacio by a commercial truck and seriously but the most significant factor has tionally, the unemployment rate was 3.9 Valley High School in Concord on May 31. injured. The driver and owner of the usually been who has control over the percent. Contra Costa County reported Medical Marijuana Dispensary. 2.8 percent unemployment rate in April, Concord City Council gave direction to truck have no insurance or money, details of the work. the lowest on record since May of 1999. staff to develop regulations on a Medical but they haul cargo for another larger On April 30, 2018, the California Rossmoor Shopping Center rede- Marijuana Dispensary, non-storefront company. Whether you can go after Supreme Court issued a very important velopment is rapidly progressing with delivery from within Concord, and the larger company for compensation opinion regarding this distinction a new 14,50o square foot CVS full service micro-business. Council reaffirmed might very well depend on whether the between independent contractors and pharmacy and drive-up, and a 2,000 manufacture of medical marijuana with square foot Starbucks with drive up. The a distribution aspect. In addition, a fully driver and truck owner were “employees” employees. In Dynamax Operations phased redevelopment of the shopping licensed delivery service from outside the of the larger company or rather were West, Inc. v. Superior Court, delivery center also includes a refreshed façade city has begun operation delivering to “independent contractors.” Employers drivers filed a class action against a for Safeway, an upscale salon and new medical holders of either a state card or a are liable for the actions of their package and document delivery company restaurants. Plans are to open in October. doctor’s note, as per Prop 215. According A 3.1-magnitude earthquake was to Concord Mayor Edi Birsan in a Face- employees (if taken within the course claiming that they were employees and reported in the East Bay on May 30 on book post, “The one legal delivery service and scope of their employment), but that they had not been paid overtime, the Concord Fault, according to the U.S. that just started 30 days ago expects to hirers of independent contractors are had not been provided with paystubs, Geological Survey. The quake was re- have three trucks and 150 deliveries PER usually not responsible for the actions of and had not been reimbursed for ported at 3:57 p.m. and was centered 1.9 DAY with average sales of $100 or less. such contractors. business expenses (like gas and tolls). miles northwest of Concord. “I wanted unrestricted or ‘real world’ Concussion Law. Congressman dispensaries but this is progress,” Birsan Suppose you want some landscaping The company had classified the drivers DeSaulnier (CA-11) announced legislation states. done at your home and you pick up as independent contractors. The to help protect student athletes from con- For breaking news daily, go to someone outside of Home Depot to company argued that the court should cussions. The “Protecting Student Ath- Claycord.com. help you with the labor. That person apply the regular multi-factor test letes from Concussions Act”, H.R. 3580, cuts his hand off sawing a board and described above, but the Supreme Court sues you claiming that you should have ruled that in the employment law context had worker’s compensation insurance. the test was different. The result of that case might depend According to the unanimous Court, on whether the person you hired was because the employment laws were an “employee” or an “independent meant to protect workers and to prevent contractor.” Or suppose you start a companies from unfairly competing by beauty salon and you hire some hair avoiding their obligations under these stylists to work at your shop sharing laws, workers making employment law the fees they charge their customers. A claims are presumed to be employees stylist sues you claiming that you have unless the company hiring them proves not provided her with paystubs, that three things: (A) that the worker was you have not paid her minimum wage, free from the control and direction of the or time and a half for overtime, and that hirer in connection with the performance you have not provided her with meal of the work both under the contract for and rest breaks. Again, the result of that the performance of the work and in fact; case may turn on whether the stylist (B) that the worker performed work was an “employee” or an “independent that was outside the usual course of the contractor.” hiring entity’s business; and (C) that What is the difference between the worker was customarily engaged an “employee” and an “independent in an independently established trade, contractor?” Some cases are easy. For occupation or business of the same example, if your sink is clogged and nature as that involved in the work The Diablo Gazette “Mrs. Butterbanks” Sam Bowerbanks Contact Us: (925) 298-9990 “Frugelegance” Carol and Randi, the you call a plumber, or if your lights go performed. This is known as the ABC test Publisher David King Frugirls out and you call an electrician, these and it will make it very hard for hirers to Editor Ann King “Legally Yours” Rita Holder, Attorney are classic, traditional independent avoid their employment law obligations “Book Ends” Jill Hedgcock contractors. They have their own by claiming that the people who work for We are forever grateful to all who help “Movie Review” Common Sense Media businesses, they bring their own tools, them are independent contractors. produce the Diablo Gazette: Contributors & Correspndents Graphic Design/Layout: Robin Gigoux, author Alt Publish Frank Burroughs, author Dominic Aliano Photographers: Scott Feuer, Environmental Architect Micah, Tillie Turner, CSK Photography, Desire Medlen Life Through a Lens Photography Nik Wojcik

Columnists Illustrators “The Concordian” Edi Birsan, Concord JT Vincent, Sarah Szeilig Mayor “Inside Secret Service” Eric Enos Our Advertisers: Please support our “Legal Briefs” Douglas Prutton, Attor- local businesses. ney “What Really Matters” Dan Ashley, Advertising Requests:The Diablo News AnchorABC7 Gazette is published monthly and serves “Parents Footprints,” Dr. Dan Peters the greater Diablo Valley area. “Ruby to the Rescue” Jill Hedgecock Diablo Gazette: advertising@dia- “Journey-Man’s Journey” John Cooper blogazette.com “FarmerFresh” Deb Morris Claycord.com: [email protected] “Computer Corner” Will Claney “Out to Lunch” Richard Eber Send comments, questions, calendar “The Realtor” Jennifer Stojanovich items and letters to the Editor to: “The Right Move” Terrylynn Fisher [email protected] Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 16 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990 Mt. Diablo Resource Offers parentfootprints by Dr. Dan Peters www.DrDanPeters.com Recovery Summer Camp With school out for the summer, it’s the perfect time to learn about recycling and respecting the environment at Mt. Diablo How to Survive Summer Resource Recovery (MDRR) sixth annual It’s here; the moment your kids have the schedule of school to the schedule free Summer Camp. MDRR is offering a been waiting for: summer vacation. You of summer camp but in most cases camp session that will each include a tour have been waiting for it too; a break from every family (and child) will experience of their 90,000-square-foot recycling all the homework, lunches, after-school transition time. facility and recycling trucks, recycling activities, sports, enrichment classes, Remember, summer break is an games and an interactive activity about music and more. opportunity for so many different the 5 R’s (Reduce-Reuse-Recycle-Re- But is it a break? Do any of these experiences — from creating and spect-Recover). statements sound familiar? building, doing art, going on hikes, The camp will be on Wednesday, June “I’m bored!” 12, from 10 am to 12 noon, at the Mt. Di- committed to offering fun educational “Why do I have to ablo Resource Recovering facility located opportunities to East Bay youth, who will get off the computer?” at 1300 Loveridge Road in Pittsburg. The be making contributions to our commu- “I don’t want to go camp is free, though reservations are nity for years to come.” to camp!” limited to 25 children per session. To sign up for camp sessions contact “I just want to relax “Respectful appreciation of our environ- MDR’s Adriana Medina by phone (925- and do nothing!” ment should be taking place year-round 771-2721) or email (Adriana.Medina@ “There is nothing regardless of whether school is in,” said Garaventaent.com). For more informa- to do!” Joseph Garaventa, MDR’s Chief Exec- tion about Mt. Diablo Resource Recov- “Summer is my utive Officer. “Mt. Diablo Recycling is ery: www.mdresrec.com break. Why can’t I do what I want?” Are you already asking “what date does school start?” Know that you are not alone. Almost all kids have trouble winding reading, exploring new places, taking down and settling into summer. There is classes, day and overnight camp, family often a transition period. Many kids are adventures and more. While it is our scheduled from the moment they wake job as parents to plan for your child’s up to the moment they hit their pillow. summer, it is also important to include Structure, although sometimes resisted, them in the process. After all, it is their provides the boundaries by which they summer. You might be surprised to move through their days and defines their learn what they have in mind. Why not actions hour by hour. When this structure create a “bucket list” with each child and is removed, many children are at a loss make one for the entire family too? But (especially children with challenges, remember to keep schedules and minds special needs, or gifted kids). flexible. I have fond memories of getting on my In addition to all the activities, as bike and exploring our neighborhood, parents, you may want to think about playing at my friend’s house, making forts what life skills you want to focus on and playing pick-up games of baseball in or develop. You may want your child our driveway with neighbors. With the to have a new experience, participate exception of a week-long family trip and in a fun enrichment classes, play in a an occasional week day camp, the day sports summer league, do some tutoring, was mine to create while allowing it to strengthen social skills or have a summer unfold. Kids today still have this ability, of unstructured time for creating and but many have not had the opportunity relaxing. This is purely a personal choice to experience unstructured time or time for each family and one worth exploring that has not been planned for them. right away. Yet, we want them to “be creative,” “find something to do,” and we remind In most cases, you will find that your them that they don’t have to “be doing child will settle into summer and find something every minute.” They don’t? his or her own groove. You, too, will also This may be news to them. settle into summer. I tell my patients and families that part And just when everything is going of the process of settling into summer is swimmingly... the start of school will be allowing some transition time. Transition here! time can probably be avoided, or not So, dive in and enjoy it while it lasts! needed, if your child goes directly from Free Mosquitofish Available for Contra Costa Residents by David King The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector the District’s mosquitofish production Control District provides free mosqui- facility. to-eating fish for Contra Costa residents Pick up one mosquitofish for every four to place in their backyard ponds, horse square feet of your water’s surface area troughs, swimming pools, and hot tubs at the District Office at 155 Mason Circle that are not being filtered or chlorinated. in Concord Monday through Friday from Mosquitofish are live bearing freshwater 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call in advance minnows related to guppies. Only one to if you need large numbers of 50 or more two inches in length, an adult can eat 500 for a water feature such as a pool or large mosquito larvae a day. They are a perfect pond. 925-685-9301. They provide cof- biological source for controlling the fee cans for transporting the fish and rely mosquito population. More than 100,000 on residents generously donating their of this fish are produced each year at empty cans by bringing them to the office.

“Your readers are already responding to our plea for coffee cans - thank you!” -Andrew Pierce, Community Affairs Representative email to Mayor of Claycord.com after posting a story seeking coffee can donations. Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 17 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990 Mrs Butterbanks theRIGHT “YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE, LICK THE BOWL!” by Terrylynn Fisher, Brokermove Associate www.BuyStageSell.com Read my blog at www.butterrequired.com Today’s Realtors Wear Many Hats Your Realtor is your advocate, your not show things that are discoverable, 1/8 tsp baking soda advisor, negotiator, your counselor, your and the neighborhood could be different 2 eggs trusted source for all things real estate. that the property that is being presented. 1 tsp salt As a fiduciary in your transaction, that It’s important that your sanctuary FEEL 1/2 cup sugar Realtor can be invaluable to your efforts like a sanctuary. You can’t get that from 1 ¼ cups semi-sweet choc- to secure or sell a property. Fiduciary a photo. olate chips denotes a higher level of obligation, Conversely, the importance of the trust and responsibility. Personally, I photo in the process is not to be under- Preheat the oven to 350⁰. know many of my colleagues feel as I do, rated. Photos are the “drive by” of 2018. Grease a 9x9 inch baking honored every day to be able to have the Being eliminated before you have an pan. Melt white chocolate trust and hold close the private thoughts opportunity to show your features and chips and butter in a double and goals of the people we serve. We are value is tragic. You don’t know why you boiler (which is a glass bowl there, inserted into their lives for a period are eliminated if they don’t walk through in time, for the important moments that the door. that sits over a larger sauce- define their life story, their successes and In addition, private property rights are pan that has about 1 1/2 failures, their milestones (births, gradu- protected every day by Realtors who have cups of simmering water). ations, weddings as well as school, work the resources to fight for causes that jeop- Whisk until smooth and set and play). It is an honor and privilege ardize homeowner rights. The National aside to cool. to be part of whatever their experience Association of Realtors says “From city In a mixing bowl, beat eggs that causes them to seek out our assis- hall to the U.S. Capitol, REALTORS® are on high speed until foamy, tance. When times are not as happy, such actively involved in a wide range of issues with the mixer still running as death, divorce and tragedy, we are related to the health and well-being of the at medium speed, slowly privileged to be able to take some of the communities where they work and live. add the sugar and vanilla, burden of the real estate piece for them, They are a powerful voice in support of and then drizzle the melted so they can grieve and carry on with what the dream of homeownership and work to white chocolate mixture. needs to be done elsewhere. We are there build strong communities and a vibrant Turn your mixer to slow Ahhh...summer is HERE! School is to represent the real estate in their situa- business environment that benefits speed, mix in the flour, salt, baking pow- out (thank heavens) and the kiddos get tions and guide them through to the other everyone.” der and baking soda, until evenly mixed to sleep in. So, to celebrate, let’s all eat side. It is not for us to judge or dictate, Many countries in the world have and then fold in the chocolate chips. blondies! but to meet the defined goals of those restrictions on who and how you can Spread evenly into the prepared pan. For those that aren’t familiar with blon- who come to us for our help. own property. We are so fortunate to Bake 25-27 minutes, until the middle dies, they’re like brownies, but blond. Not During the downturn of the decade, we have the ability to live where we want to, comes out clean with a knife. Cool before too complicated of an explanation. We helped people do loan modifications by and to buy and sell property freely. We cutting into bars. This recipe can also all know the saying: “blondes have more the thousands with no fee. We volunteer build wealth with our real estate, fund be baked more thin and crisp in a 9x13 fun”. Well, I happen to be a brunette, our time and money to causes we see in retirement and college, secure a home pan with a shorter baking time of 15-17 so I tend to disagree with that saying, our own neighborhoods, making a differ- that gives us stability and roots. We are minutes and used for the “cookie” part of ence where we live, where our families fortunate to live in a free country where because I have plenty of fun! live. We want healthy communities for our values and freedoms are protected. ice cream sandwiches, pair with chocolate ice cream in the center? YUM! your family and our own. We live where Realtors fight for those freedoms in their 8 oz. white chocolate chips Be sure to share with the kiddos. What a we work. lobbies, their states, counties and neigh- ½ cup butter, softened grand way to start their summer. In the internet age, we were told that borhoods and want the same for their 1 TBSP vanilla extract we would no longer be needed as con- families as for yours. I am honored to be 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour tracts can be written online and buyers a Realtor. and sellers can find each other without our assistance. What we find instead is Terrylynn Fisher, Real Estate Bro- that people want experiences, to under- ker Associate (DRE #00615420) with stand and articulate the value, the neigh- Dudum Real Estate Group (DRE # borhood and other factors that help you 01882902) (925) 876 0966. determine where you live. The photo may

farmerby Debra Morris,Pacific Coastfresh Farmers Market Stone Fruit http://www.pcfma.org/concord Freestone and Cling

Freestone peaches, plums, and nectarines are those where the stone (pit) comes away easily from the flesh and are firm and juicy. They are usually used in home canning and baking where uniform slices are needed. They’re also great for eating out of hand. Clingstone fruit is usually a bit larger, Grilled Apricots with Burrata juicier and are often used when you need Cheese to dice or chop the fruit, and for sauces. 1-1/4 pounds apricots, halved and pitted The pit does not come away from the flesh 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more easily. for brushing Recently, new hybrids have been Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper developed that offer a bit of both cling Lemon juice to taste and freestone, called the semi-freestone. 12 leaves of baby arugula They are a combination of clingstone 1/4 of onion, thinly slice and macerated and freestone stone fruit. By the time the in lemon juice (for 10 minutes) fruit has ripened, it has become primarily 8 oz. burrata cheese, torn into medium freestone, but still clings a bit. The pit is size chunks fairly easy to remove. It is a good, general purpose fruit, fine for both eating fresh Start a grill or preheat a grill pan. and for canning or baking. Dress the apricots with oil and season with Cling peaches usually arrive at the salt and pepper. Grill over high heat, cut farmers’ markets in June, followed by sides down, do not touch and grill until the freestone varieties. Look for stone lightly charred, 5 minutes. (allowing the fruit from Allard Farms of Byron, and char to develop will create flavor and Frog Hollow Farm of Brentwood, among will allow the fruit to pull away from the others. These farmers offer their luscious grill.) Let cool. stone fruits in both popular and hard-to- In a bowl, whisk the lemon juice with find varieties. Try the Arctic or O’Henry the 1/4 cup of oil and season with salt and peaches, the Arctic Star or Desert Dawn pepper. Gently toss in the apricots, onions, nectarines, or the juicy Santa Rosa and arugula. Transfer to a chilled platter and Castleman plums. There are even hybrid place torn burrata cheese pieces around varieties that combine two different stone the grilled apricots, onions and the fruits like apriums and pluots. Summer is arugla. Serve at once. Recipe: Cookin’ the short so try them all. Market, PCFMA. Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 18 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990 frugelegance Easy Summer Home Decor by Carol and Randi -The Frugirls www.frugelegance.com

Are you ready for summer? It’s such a looks great on a stand or tray. A simple ers is to place a clear cup upside down, busy time with the school year wrapping piece of twine tied around a hand towel or an empty water bottle or foil balled up, getting up. It saves so that we use less filler. your Many of these items have special outdoors memories for us. However, even items spruced without specific memories can still up after create memories on their own, because the winter your family will remember how your rains, and home always looked and felt cozy season of course to season. getting the grill ready. Carol and Randi, the FruGirls, are We have local home stagers and decorators. You a few su- can also find them Blogging about many per simple other ways to live an elegant life for less and easy online at www.frugelegance.com. FrugE- touches legance is where Frugal and Elegance that can come together. bring a little summer We love battery operated candles into your home decor. Some of our Fru- or set of washcloths with a small shell or with automatic timers that go on every gElegant favorites are sand, seashells, starfish is gorgeous. There is no need to evening for 4 hours. They add a warm starfish and coral buy dec- glow to our pieces. Try these orative family room. ideas. towels. By adding a We have glass Use solid simple shell containers that neutral next to the we use all year color candles, you round and simply towels so can no longer change what we that they tell these fill them with. can be were Christ- Trays are a reused mas candles. nice touch on the each The refresh coffee table. Add season. containers photo books and Inex- are on the a framed family pensive fireplace photo with a memorable vacation souve- glass hurricanes from TJ Maxx mantle each nir such as a seashell. filled with small shells and season with a Bringing summer decor into the bath- candles look great on the kitchen different fill. room with starfish and a decorative soap table or counter. A little trick we do when filling contain- Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 19 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925) 298-9990 Columbine, CO - The Evil Law Enforcement Must Face years before. Little did I know, I would views news stations had been display- prayers of the nation and of the world, experience that same feeling, only much ing across all the networks the past two and that those collective prayers would [Editors Note: Few of us have ever met a Secret more intensified, in the very near future. days) where so many students had been somehow comfort them and somehow Service Agent, or maybe you have and don’t know it. “Inside the Secret Service” is about life as a Se- After completing our agent security brutally murdered. It was surreal look- ease their unimaginable suffering. I cret Service agent. These are true stories of real life briefing on Tuesday, many of us headed sometimes reflect back on experiences of Eric Enos, a Concord resident who out to Austin’s famous 6th Street Dis- that assignment and of spent years as a Secret Service agent.] trict to get something to eat and take the powerful images and in the local flavor. In route, our pagers emotions I saw that day I arrived in Austin for a POTUS began going off simultaneously (this and of the compassion Clinton visit which was scheduled for a was before iPhones and the ability to and love that all present Wednesday. I land- receive real-time media had for those suffering. ed at Robert Mueller feeds) informing that the A year or so after Municipal Airport President’s trip had been Columbine, I was back in in Austin, Texas, on cancelled and to standby Denver on a protection Monday April 19, 1999. for further instructions. assignment and met an We would have an No reason was given. We officer from the Denver agent briefing at our speculated and wondered PD SWAT team. He and hotel conducted by the what could have occurred ing down on the building with its board- his team were the first inside Columbine advance team. to learn that would cause a presi- ed-up second floor windows where just High School on the day of the shooting. the details of the Presi- dential trip to be can- two days before students had jumped He described the horrific conditions dent’s itinerary, discuss celled less than 24 hours from in order to flee flying bullets and they encountered as they navigated any adverse intel from the scheduled arrival. the explosions of pipe bombs. The same through dark hallways and rooms, ankle pertaining to POTUS, and review local, I remember walking into one of the eerie and sad feelings washed over me deep in water (due to the activation state, and nation, persons of interest pubs and seeing on each of the multiple like they had three days prior when of the emergency sprinkler systems (lookouts). We would then breakdown television screens, live news feeds from seeing the University of Texas Tower. as a result of pipe bomb explosions), into smaller groups for further discus- Columbine, Colorado. Each network But unlike that observance, the strength passing by hundreds of back packs, sion regarding our specific assignments was reporting on that day’s tragic mass of these feelings for me were under- some of which they knew were rigged and responsibilities for the visit. school shooting at Columbine High standably much stronger. These wounds with explosives, as they look for and Our route from the airport to down- School. We immediately knew why the were fresh. The dead, 12 students and found students and faculty who were town took us alongside the University Austin trip had been cancelled. a teacher, still lay in morgues. Families hiding, and as they located each of the of Texas campus. As I gazed out the Two days later, I was in a helicopter were praying for injured loved ones who dead and wounded students and faculty, cab window my eyes were drawn to above Vice President Gore’s motorcade, were clinging to life. The country was in and finally found the two perpetrators, the campus’s most prominent feature, acting as an extra set of eyes searching shock and the mourning had just begun. both dead from self-inflicted gunshot the 30 story, 300-foot-tall, University from above for any unusual activity This, like the Texas University massacre, wounds. All the specialized training in of Texas Tower. This was my first trip along the motorcade route (i.e., large was a horrific event the nation would the world could never truly prepare one to Austin, but the UT Tower somehow gatherings, chokepoints, persons on roof never forget. emotionally for the atrocious sights they looked familiar to me. Then it struck tops, etc.), as it made its way from the We landed behind police barricades saw in Columbine that day. me. The tower was the sight of one of Denver International Airport to Colum- on the edge of a field on the school The massacre at Columbine High most horrific and deadly mass shootings bine, Colorado. Specifically, to the Mann grounds, across from the Mann Theater School, like that at the University of in US history and the first mass school Theater parking lot, located across from lot. The area was still an active crime Texas years before, and like the sense- shooting in the country. On August 1, Columbine High School, where the Vice science. I’ll never forget seeing the less recent school shootings of Parkland, 1966, Charles Whitman shot and killed President was to attend an outdoor somber faces, eyes with looks of shock FL and Santa Fe, TX are reminders of 16 and injured 31 from his sniper perch memorial service for the victims. and disbelief, students on crutches, just how fragile and precious life is. on the tower’s observation deck. I had We hovered above as the motorcade parents, friends, students, and facul- They are also reminders that pure evil an eerie and sad feeling in the pit of my safely arrived at the theater parking ty, hugging and crying. Every parent’s exists in this world and is amongst us. stomach as I thought of the carnage and lot. From this vantage point I had a worst nightmare had become reality It is because of that evil that agencies lives destroyed at the hands of a mad birds-eye view of the entire school and at Columbine. One hoped and prayed such as the Secret Service, and all law man from atop that very tower so many the library building (the same aerial that those grieving souls could feel the enforcement, exist. WWII Historic Aircraft Comes to Buchanan Field

As a fitting follow-up to Memorial Day nationwide. Local veterans are invited educational foundation devoted to orga- visiting their website at www.collings- weekend, and in honor of WWII Veter- to come out and share their personal nizing “living history” events that allows foundation.org. ans, the “Wings of Freedom Tour” will be experiences and stories. people to learn more about their heritage on display at Buchanan Field Airport in Collings Foundation requests $15 for and history. You can find out more by Concord from June 7 through June 10. adults and $5 for children under 12 for Celebrating its 29th year, the Collings access to up-close viewing and tours Foundation’s “Wings of Freedom Tour” through the inside of the aircraft. There will be showcasing vintage Boeing B-17 are discounted rates for school groups. flying Fortress, “Nine O Nine”, the Con- As fascinating as this flying muse- solidated B-24 Liberator “Witchcraft”, the um may be to see, imagine the thrill of B-25 Mitchell “Tondelayo” bombers and actually flying in one. You can take a North American P-51 Mustang “Toulouse 30-minute flight aboard one of these rare Nuts” fighter. aircraft. Flights on either the B-17 or This is your rare chance to explore or B-24 are $450 per person. B-25 flights even fly in some of WWII’s most suc- are $400 per person. cessful aircraft and unique treasures of For even more excitement and some aviation history. The B-17 is one of only “stick time” fly the world’s greatest fight- nine still in flying condition in the US er. P-51 flights are $2,200 for a half hour while the B-24J is the sole remaining ex- and $3,200 for a full hour. For reserva- ample of its type in the world. The B-25 tions and information on flight experienc- is best known for being used in the daring es call 800-568-8924. You must make “Doolittle Raid.” the reservation. These bombers were the backbone of Ground tour times are Thursday, June the American effort during the war from 7 from 12:00pm to 5:00 pm, and Fri- 1942-1945 and were famous for being day through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to able to sustain damage and still complete 5:00pm. The 30-minute flight experi- the mission. The P-51 was affectionately ences are normally scheduled before and known as the bombers “Little Friend,” after the ground tour times above. saving countless crews from attacking The “Wings of Freedom Tour” is a axis fighters. flying tribute to the flight crews who flew After the war, many aircraft were them, the ground crews who maintained scrapped for their aluminum to rebuild them, the workers who built them, the the nation. Few were spared. The rarity soldiers, sailors and airmen they helped of the B-17, B-25, B-24, and P-51 - and protect; and the citizens and families their importance to telling the story of that share the freedom that they helped WWII is why the Collings Foundation preserve. continues to fly and display the aircraft The Collings Foundation is a non-profit Diablo Gazette • JUNE 2018 • Page 20 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925) 298-9990 MDSA Milestone: Girls Soccer Team Heads to Salt Lake Regionals

Mt. Diablo Heat 01G: Front row (l-r) Reagan Bowerbank, Kira Raman, Mady Hayworth, Isabel Dumapit, Vanessa Hawley, Zahra Mojaddidi, Sahar Haydaree, Giselle Lange Back row: Coach Ryan Lange, Christina Muller, Isabella Arredondo, Alaina Lindsey, Rachel Burnett, Micaela Davis, Kailee Rice, Vanessa Castrillo, Andrea SantaMaria, Coach Marvin Davis Photo by CSK Photography

Two Mt. Diablo Soccer Association (MDSA) Girls Elite teams won Nor Cal State Championships, a first for MDSA. MDSA 01G Heat will advance to the Far West Regionals in Salt Lake City, UT, June 11 to June 17. MDSA is a local chapter of Region 223 of the American Youth Soccer Organi- zation (AYSO) for Clayton and Concord. Concord and Pleasant Hill also have AYSO chapters. Known as a recreational league where each season new balanced teams and coaches were assembled, serious soccer players tend to transfer Front row: Natalya Modowar, Katelyn Calderon, Anja to pricier and more competitive club Perreira, Lilly Foskett, Layla Solis, Morgan Grove. systems. Recreational leagues maintain Back row: Coach Matt Stephens, Julia Lovelace, much lower participation fees due to its Kate Bullis, Emery Stephens, Juliana Gonzales, Temi staff of parental volunteer coaches and Okeowo, Renata Salerno, Coach Dylan Perreira referees. Four years ago, MDSA/AYSO Region six days will be $1000.) Without some 223 launched a competitive Elite Pro- additional support from the community, gram whereby players could stay together some of the girls will be unable to go. as a team from season to season and play The Heat have set up a go fund me page against Club Soccer teams in tourna- to help for those who may offer financial ments. support. https://www.gofundme.com/ MDSA Heat O1G (under 17) won the help-heat-get-to-far-west-regionals. The state Cup in May and will continue on to page has raised nearly half of the $10,000 compete in Salt Lake City. MDSA 06G goal so far. The donations collected will (under 12) won in the Association Cup in be used to support the housing, travel, December. Both of these teams represent and food expenses for those that need a developmental milestone for MDSA. assistance. This is the first time the Elite Teams have “We are so honored to represent made it this far by winning the State Cups MDSA, AYSO Region 223 and the cities over top level Club Teams across North- of Concord & Clayton in Utah!” said Heat ern California. Coach, Ryan Lange. The Heat will need financial support. A Congratulations to both teams and one-week trip for an entire roster will be good luck to the Heat! costly. (RT air is $300 and each room for

Martinez Clippers Pro Baseball Debuts with Strong Fan Support

Martinez, the birthplace of the legendary Martinez Clippers owners Jeff and New York Yankee Joe DiMaggio, finally has Paulette Carpoff are lifelong Martinez res- its own baseball team. idents. The Carpoffs saw a way to not only The Martinez Clippers are the new expan- honor the legacy of one of the city’s great sion team are members of the six-team Pa- residents, Joe DiMaggio, but also unite the cific Association of Professional Baseball commumnity. Clubs, an independent professional baseball Mayor Rob Schroder thanked the team’s circuit not affiliated with Major League owners, the Jeff and Paulette Carpoff, Main Baseball. Although, some players have Street Martinez director Leanne Peterson advanced to other independent and numerous city staff for all their hard leagues, Minor League, and even work in making the team a reality. MLB. The Clippers is named The Martinez Clippers debuted its for “The Yankee Clipper”, the home opener Thursday, May 31 to a nickname of New York Yankee, crowd larger than the roughly 350 bleach- Joe DiMaggio. They will be playing ers seats available, according to East Bay at the newly rebuilt Joe DiMaggio Field at Times. Despite dropping its first two games Waterfront Park in Martinez. of the season, 13-2 and 12-9 to the Sonoma The Pacific Association of Professional Stompers, Martinez greeted the Clippers to Baseball Clubs is the only independent an enthusiastic and warm welcome. Baseall professional baseball league in Northern is back in Martinez! California. Established in 2013, the league Tickets are $15, cash only. Kids in Mar- is currently home to six teams: The Sonoma tinez Youth Baseball and Softball Leagues Stompers, San Rafael Pacifics, Vallejo Ad- will be admitted free. Plans for online ticket mirals, Pittsburg Diamonds, Napa Silvera- purchasing to begin soon. For ticketing and dos and Martinez Clippers.” parking information, visit mtzclippers.com.