www.myconcordian.com December 2008 925.673.

5367

Making A
Difference
ABC-7 News Anchor
Dan Ashley
tackles what
really matters

PRSRT STD
 Local Girl’s Struggle for Survival US POSTAGE
PAID
 Concord’s Race for Literacy Fundraiser CLAYTON, CA
PERMIT 190
 MDHS’ Sports Hall of Fame
 Our New Arts & Entertainment Section
Page 2 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

What Really Matters

Inside
Special Correspondent ABC-7

3 News Anchor Dan Ashley

launches a regular feature

Food Bank Volunteers

The Food Bank recognizes its

4 volunteers with a luncheon in their

honor

Local Girl Needs Transplant

Six year old Katie Grace suffers

8 from pulmonary hypertension,

needs a heart/lung transplant
Cover Shot:
Inside the Post Office ABC-7 News Anchor
A rare glimpse behind the daily Dan Ashley at the

11 workings of Concord’s Post Office Food Bank of Contra

Costa & Solano
Photo: Wentling Studio

Todos Santos History

THERE’S NO COMPARISON From 1868 to the present, the

11 plaza has had a rich history

Other Stuff
Roundabout . . . .4
Our Holiday Guide Mayor’s Open
Enjoy our final guide to the Office . . . . . . . . . .7

12 holiday season. Includes local

holiday events calendar
Centenarian . . . . .7
a

Directory of
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aM n C

Advertisers . . . .10
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The Race for Literacy

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Chamber of
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The Concord Hilton hosts a

24
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Commerce . . . . 10
1.00% 1.55% 1.60% 2.00% APY  major fundraiser for
Rates as of 11 / 14 / 08 from literacy groups Legal Briefs . . . .26

.00% APY
3
published Web site data
Theatre Review .28
 MDHS Sports Hall of Fame

JUMBO
A New Green
School celebrates half-century

Money
market
25 with many alumni events
Generation . . . .30
Something To
Smile About . . . .30

account Ouimet 50th Anniversary Real Estate . . . . .5

Concord family business

27 The Real Deal . . .31

Minimum account

*
balance of $100,000 celebrates half-century
N Check writing privileges of service
N Electronic funds access*
N Unlimited in-person withdrawals Arts and Entertainment Getting Out
Introducing our new arts and

28
Holiday Calendar
Switch to Travis Credit Union and start earning more! Money market accounts are one entertainment section listing . . . . . . . .12
of the most popular investment choices for any investor. With a deposit of $100,000
or more and Checking with Direct Deposit,** you will earn an incredible yield while you Complete Events
keep your funds liquid. and Calendar
It’s For the Birds listing . . . . . . . .22
TWO BRANCHES IN CONCORD How to turn a country feed store
1257 Willow Pass Road
Clayton Valley Shopping Center
5442 Ygnacio Valley Road,
32 into a country feed store and
world class avian specialty center

Suite 10
Mon-Fri 10am-5:30pm; Sat 10am-2pm

Where You Belong The Concordian staff would like

Join online, or open an account online at
our full - service Web site: www.traviscu.org
Member Service Center
(800) 877-8328
to extend our heartfelt wishes
NCUA–Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government. National Credit Union
Administration, a U.S. government agency. APY=Annual percentage yield. Rate as of November 14, 2008. An APY of 0.50% will be paid on any day the
for a joyful holiday season and
balance falls below $100,000. Dividends are paid on a monthly basis on the first day of each month following the dividend period. The dividend rate and
applicable APY on your account are subject to change at any time without prior notice. $100,000 minimum deposit applies to Jumbo money market
account. Other money market accounts with varying deposit minimums and rates are available. *Certain types of withdrawals are limited by federal
regulations. Transfers from a money market account by means of preauthorized, automatic, Online banking, or telephone instructions are limited to six per
a hopeful new year to all our
month with no more than three transfers, checks, or similar orders to third parties. If these limits are exceeded in any given month, your account will be
subject to an excessive transaction fee of $15 per month. See account disclosure for complete details. **To qualify, a TCU checking account is required
with a Direct Deposit of at least $500 per month. If Direct Deposit is not established, is canceled or revoked, the APY will be reduced 50 basis points.
readers and our advertisers.
Everyone who lives, works, worships or goes to school in Contra Costa county is eligible to join. Certain membership requirements may apply.
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 3

ABC-7 News anchor Dan Ashley talks about

What really matters

Even if you are feeling the crunch,
remember those in need this holiday season
work doing various assigned tasks.
When the doors opened at 11 a.m., we
were surprised by the number of peo-
ple who came out to be a part of a holi-
day centered around a hot meal which,
it seems to me, must be a cold
reminder to so many in our community
of what they do not have. When volun-
teers began serving meals and drinks
to the hundreds of men, women and
families who came through the doors,
the feeling of camaraderie and compas-
sion was overwhelming.
By Dan Ashley My wife and I were in tears watch-
The Concordian
ing our two boys, initially so reluctant,
now hustling around the dining hall
his year in the Bay Area, we are
Everyone can help
The scary part is that it’s getting
worse and will continue to do so for the
foreseeable future. “The most telling
thing we’re noticing is that there are a
large number of people coming in who
have never come to a food distribution
center before,” Larry Sly says.
Women with children and entire
families caught in the downturn have
suddenly found themselves in dire cir-
cumstances. The people who need help
this year might be living next door to us.
What really matters as we navi-
gate through this financial crisis as
individuals, as a community and as a
country is that we are all in this togeth-
er – a shared burden and a shared
responsibility.
In the spirit of the holiday season,
let each of us resolve to do whatever we
can to help fill the gap at our local food
bank, whether it be a cash donation, a
few non-perishable food items or even
a little time volunteering. Every little
bit makes a difference.

T seeing a crisis of need far

greater than any we have expe-
rienced in recent decades. The econo-
my has created a perfect storm of
hunger and want in so many of our
communities.
I have seen the consequences of try-
ing to survive with little food and less
hope many times over the years as a
reporter and as an ordinary citizen.
On Thanksgiving Day a few years
ago, my wife and I took our two sons to
feed the homeless at a church in down-
town Concord as a way to share the
holiday with some of the less fortunate
in our community and to help the boys
understand what it means to be in
need. We had done this before as a
family, some years serving
Thanksgiving meals, other years deliv-
ering toys and food to deserving fami-
lies at Christmas.
On this particular Thanksgiving
Day, we were pressed for time as we
were expecting several friends and
neighbors to join us for a turkey dinner
at our home that afternoon. We were
behind on getting the house and the
food ready for our guests, so, I sup-
pose, we had a bit of a “let’s get this
over with” attitude as we headed out
the door that morning.
Emotional impact
With my sons complaining about the
community service being imposed
upon them, I told them on the drive
over why I thought this was an impor-
tant gesture to make and what I
expected of them in terms of effort and
behavior when we arrived. I told the
boys that they should think of the peo-
ple they would meet at the church that
morning as guests at the finest hotel.
They were there to serve them and
make them feel welcome, cared for and
comfortable.
Having been fortunate enough to
have stayed at a few nice hotels already
in their young lives, the boys under-
stood the concept, albeit reluctantly.
When we arrived, we all got right to
refilling drink glasses, delivering bread
and whatever else was requested by
these guests of this fine “hotel” just off
Todos Santos Plaza.
Four hours after we had arrived at
the church, our good deed done for the
day, we headed home to have our
Thanksgiving meal with our friends –
feeling especially grateful for our good
fortune and blessings that day.
Needs on the rise
This year, the Salvation Army is
handing out 40 percent more food than
at this time last year. And with dona-
tions down, along with home values
and the stock market, hundreds of
families have already signed up for
Christmas dinners that may not be
available.
“In 31 Christmases with the
Salvation Army, this is the first time
I’m anticipating the need to tell people,
‘No, we can’t serve you,’ ” says Major
Clay Gardner, who runs the Concord
Salvation Army. “It’s a little bit scary
heading into Christmas.”
You’ll hear the same story at food
pantries in every one of our local com-
munities this year. The Food Bank of
Contra Costa and Solano is very much
on the front lines of what is happening
to thousands of people in the East Bay.
Home foreclosures have gone through
the roof, particularly in East County,
while construction jobs, so plentiful a
couple of years ago, have fallen Photo by Wentling Studio
LINDSAY JOHNSON, program director at the Food Bank, accepts a donation from Dan Ashley.
through the floor.
“We’re the canary in the coal mine,”
says Larry Sly, executive director of the People like Dennis Murphy of It can be tough to be generous when
Food Bank. “We’ve seen our need jump Livermore are struggling. He and his we’re feeling the stress of rising unem-
by 20 percent in the past year. We’ve 11-year-old daughter are trying to get ployment and falling investments, but
gone from serving 82,000 people a by with a little help from a free hot people in our community need help.
month to 98,000 in Contra Costa meal program called Open Heart Let us all celebrate the holidays by
County.” Kitchen. The kitchen has seen dona- sharing what we have with those who
Think about that figure. That’s the tions fall off as the number of people have so much less, but deserve so
same number of UCLA football fans it who need help has increased. much more.
takes to fill the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. “My job collapsed with the real estate
And these people are depending on the market, so my daughter and I pretty
Contra Costa Food Bank every month much find our third meal of the day at Dan Ashley is an ABC-7 news
to keep themselves and their families Open Heart,” Dennis says. His story is anchor. Watch him weeknights on
from going hungry. one of so many to be told these days. Channel 7 at 5, 6, and 11.
Page 4 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

r ound
about
Honoring veterans at
People, places and things
seen around Concord

Dorothy and Millard Ferris

André and Tiffany Gensburger
Tamara and Bob Steiner
Publishers
André Gensburger
Editor-in-Chief
andre@myconcordian.com
Hillcrest Park celebrate 60 years together Tamara Steiner
Associate Editor
Chief Operating Officer
A dramatic enactment of a military funeral marked Veterans
tamara@myconcordian.com
Day at Hillcrest Park last month. With a 21-one gun salute,
Taps played by the U.S. Volunteers and presentation of the col- Pete Cruz
ors to the “surviving daughter” by Col. Leo McArdle, the solemn Graphic Designer
service celebrated the men and women who lost their lives pete@myconcordian.com
serving in the Armed Forces.
The Blue Star Moms were on hand with a table of cards for
Bev Britton
participants to express their thanks to those serving. Two Pearl
Copy Editor
Harbor survivors were introduced: Adrian Pacheco from the
USS Honolulu and Charlie Engle from the USS Zane. Beth Neudell
Korean War Veterans Chapter 264, Veterans of Foreign Display Advertising
Wars Post 1525 and the city of Concord sponsored the event.
beth@myconcordian.com
David McDonald, president of the KWVA, was master of cere-
monies. Christina Scarlott
Also participating were Fran Kelly from the Blue Star Moms Dorothy and Millard They have two sons and Administration
Ferris celebrated their 60th one daughter; two grand-
wedding anniversary on sons, and three great-grand- Dan Ashley
Sept. 11. The two were mar- sons. Special Correspondent
dan@myconcordian.com
ried in 1948 in Alameda and Dorothy and Millard are
have lived in the Concord planning a cruise to South Staff Writers
and Clayton area for over 30 America in further celebra-
years. tion. Jeanna Ross
jeanna@myconcordian.com

Concord’s “Cutest Kid” Mike Dunn

mike@myconcordian.com

We Remember
Jill Ann Bedecarré
1950-2007
Her spirit is our muse

The Concordian, published in

Clayton, CA, is a sister publication to
Mike Dunn/The Concordian The Clayton Pioneer. It is delivered by
CONCORD MAYOR BILL SHINN, COUNCILMEMBER GUY BJERKE AND MAJOR mail, free to approximately 34,000 res-
GENERAL DAN HELIX honored members of the Armed forces at the idences with every business in Concord
Veterans Day services in Hillcrest Park last month.
receiving one.
Chapter 20, Concord Mayor Bill Shinn and Councilwoman
Laura Hoffmeister, who had just arrived home from a trip to LET US KNOW YOUR NEWS
China with the Concord Chamber of Commerce; and Weddings, engagements, anniver-
Congressman George Miller. saries, births, deaths, events, sports
Miller briefly commented on his and Rep. Ellen Taucher’s news, accomplishments, school news
MARY CLARE PAYNE, 1, CONCORDIAN’S “CUTEST KID”
WAS THE WINNER IN THE
efforts to improve both veterans’ services and accessibility to
PHOTO CONTEST LAST MONTH .Pictured here with her parents Jacqui and more. These all weave into the
those services. and Tom, the Paynes received a portrait package from Wentling
The keynote speaker was retired Army Major General Daniel fabric of a community. Please let us
Studios and delivered by Concord Mayor Bill Shinn, center. Also on
C. Helix, a former Concord mayor and city council member. know of these important events by
hand were Tamara Steiner from The Concordian and Dirk Wentling
By Mike Dunn of Wentling Studio. using the forms on our Website at
www.myconcordian.com or email
info@myconcordian.com or
Food Bank lauds volunteers for their efforts calendar@myconcordian.com
These items are published free for
The Food Bank of Solano and Contra sister organized a hike-a-thon style back-
Costa honored some 300 volunteers with pack trip on the rim trail above Lake Concord residents as space permits.
an annual luncheon in the food bank’s Tahoe in July. Please visit the Website to find addition-
warehouse in Concord last month. The group hiked 159 miles and togeth- al forms for submitting a press release,
“Volunteers from all the groups that er raised about $3,200, resulting in letter to the editor, story ideas and
the food bank works with donated over 10,000 pounds of food donations for the sports items.
37, 000 hours of time worth over Food Bank.
$720,000 over the past year,” said execu- “It’s something about volunteering CONTACT US
tive director Larry Sly. that makes me feel good to know you’re The Concordian, 6200 H Center
Bill Swanson was named Volunteer of making a difference,” LaScala- Street, PO Box 1246, Clayton, CA
the Year. “Bill worked every day and did Gruenewald said. “It’s kind of addicting 94517.
whatever was asked of him,” said Sly. – I can’t stop. You can put everything Tel: (925) 673-5367
The award for the most creative way aside that’s going on in your life, which is
Fax: (925) 672-6580
to raise money went to Angela LaScala- so hectic, and concentrate on helping
others.”
info@myconcordian.com
Larry Sly (right) presents an award to Gruenewald, a 16-year-old student at
Volunteer Bill Swanson Acalanes High School. Angela and her By Mike Dunn
December, 2008
restate eal
By Lynne French
Windermere Lynne French & Associates
Lynne French is proud to present 1116
Peacock Creek Drive, located in
Oakhurst in Clayton. Offered at
$928,000.
he Coronado model in
T Oakhurst’s Peacock Creek offers
a 3,335 sq. ft. floor plan with
four bedrooms, 2.5 baths plus a flexi-
ble-use loft. This classy, yet comfort-
able home exudes warmth and ele-
gance. It boasts a spacious ground
floor master suite with doors out to the
The backyard features a pool and waterfall
spa with gorgeous rockscape, along with a
spacious patio and koi pond.
ED
ST
T LI
JUS
Clayton, Dana Hills – 4BD+/2BA w/ 2,442 s.f.
incl. huge permitted bonus room addition.
www.369MtWashingtonWay.com $629,980
E E
P RIC
NEW
Clayton, Dana Hills – Great Value! 2,261 s.f.
4BD/2.5BA on cul-de-sac. Large deck, patio &
pool area. www.312MtSierraPlace.com $599,000
Brentwood, Deer Valley – Working Ranch
w/4BD/2.5BA home, pond, crossing-fencing,
barns –Must See! www.BrentwoodRanch.com
$1,299,000
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com
Comfortable elegance in
pool and patio areas. The master bath
has a jetted tub.
On the main level, a tidy formal liv-
ing room welcomes you with airy,
vaulted ceilings and a stylish fireplace.
New carpet in neutral tones gives a
fresh feeling to the room, and the sleek
plantation shutters allow for privacy.
On the other side of this wide, open
room, columns define the formal din-
ing room – a wonderful place to host
family gatherings.
The gourmet kitchen has soaring
ceilings and a huge prep island with a
breakfast bar plus a roomy dining area
to make your breakfast “rush” or kid’s
birthday party a breeze. The adjacent
family room has a classic brick fire-
place with a generous wooden mantel.
Built-in bookshelves flank the fire-
place. These large yet cozy areas make
this home very hospitable.
The staircase is a wonderful feature
of the home. Wide and captivating, it
lends to the nature of the home’s
smooth flow. It leads up to a large loft
area that overlooks the family room.
The loft is a flexible space that could
be used as a game room, play area,
E CE
P RIC
NEW
Clayton, Country Estate – Custom 4BD/3BA
w/3,700+ s.f. on .5 acre lot w/pool, patio & views.
www.8114MarshCreekRoad.com $999,800
P RIC
NEW
Convenient Concord – 2,274 s.f. remodeled in
& out! 4BD/3BA on a cul-de-sac in a great neigh-
borhood. www.1584LaverneWay.com $559,000
CE
PRI
NEW
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nearby Peacock Creek
1116 Peacock Creek Drive in Clayton boasts a ground floor master suite, a four-car
garage, and outstanding curb appeal in a fantastic neighborhood.
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Entertain your friends in the gor-
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RI
WP
NE
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Page 5
The well-manicured flat lot backs to
open space, making this home extra
private. You will be proud to be the
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atop the Mt. Diablo foothills with the
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entry.
To preview this home or if you would
like more information, call Lynne
French at (925) 672-8787.
E
P RIC
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Walnut Creek, The Keys – Best value in
Walnut Creek! Sunny condo w/royal amenities:
pool/clubhouse/tennis! $149,000
Page 6 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

r about
ound
Five chambers
connect at
Raiders’ wives help Crisis Nursery improve facility Business Expo
The Bay Area Crisis Nursery was the beneficiary of some The fourth annual Connections
much needed help from the wives of the Oakland Raiders’ Business Expo was a rousing and noisy
coaches and players on Nov 12. success on Nov. 6 with 116 companies,
Six wives, armed with brushes and rollers, set out to repaint including The Concordian and Clayton
the bedrooms at the Crisis Nursery’s Dahlstrom House, one of Pioneer newspapers participating in
the centers safe residences for children age 6 – 11. “This home the event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in
needs a lot of loving care,” said Starla Knapp, wife of Raiders’ Concord.
offensive coordinating coach Greg Knapp. “This has to get done Connections 2008 was a multi-
for Christmas.” The women also furnished and decorated the
Chamber of Commerce trade show
bedrooms.
expo, said Keith C. McMahon, presi-
“This gives us the opportunity to get to know each other,”
dent of the Greater Concord Chamber
said Elizabeth Fassel, wife of quality control coach John Fassel,
and the youngest of the group. of Commerce.
“We are cohesive as a group,” said Holly Rathman, wife of “This year, we had five Chambers
running back coach Tom Rathman. participating and cooperating for a
“This is a family style setting,” explained Lisa Butler, pro- great business-to-business as well as
gram manager for the Crisis Nursery. “Our clients often come business-to-consumer event.”
ELIZABETH FASSEL, HOLLY RATHMAN AND STARLA KNAPP spiff up a bedroom The four other chambers were the
on weekends or during times of severe crisis.
at the Bay Area Crisis Nursery in Concord.
The facility, complete with activity rooms, television that
shows local content only, computers without Internet access, Dahlstrom House.
and a large play area offers a safe retreat for the children while
the staff assists in helping the families. For more information contact BACN at 1506 Mendocino
The Crisis Nursery offers short term residential care for chil- Dr., Concord. (925) 685-8082 or visit their Web site at
dren birth through age five in one building and ages 6-11 at www.bacn.info

Plastic bags mean big bucks for Election night

Holbrook Elementary School
Holbrook Elementary
School in Concord is partici-
pating in the Wal-Mart Kids
Recycling Challenge. The
project, which runs through
March 31, is designed to keep
billions of pounds of unwant-
ed plastic grocery and shop-
ping bags out of landfills while
giving schools the opportunity
to earn much-needed funds.
The school earns $5 for
each 60-gallon collection bag
filled with plastic grocery and
shopping bags, as well as addi-
tional cash grants from Wal-
Mart if they are one of the top
Kiyomi Waren, Principal Nancy Dasho, Marcos Morales three schools in the region.
and Emily Fine kick off the Wal-mart Kids Recycling The bags must be clean and
Challenge at Holbrook Elementary School in Concord. dry. They can be made of any
type of plastic material and any
color except black. Produce bags or food bags are not accepted.
Residents wishing to participate are asked to remove everything from the bags,
including register receipts, and bring them to Holbrook Elementary School, 3333
Ronald Way. To arrange pickup of large quantities or for more information, call
Harumi Waren at (925) 825-1787.
Rotary donates dictionaries to third graders
In other news, Holbrook Elementary
School’s third graders each received a
free children’s dictionary from the
Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotary
Club on Nov. 10.
The donation is part of the Rotary
Club’s mission of service to schools in
need.
Shown here are Rotarian Jeff
Rondini, with Holbrook principal Nancy
Dasho.
parties celebrate the
end of campaigns
for these winners
RE-ELECTED CITY COUNCILMEN
MARK PETERSON AND BILL SHINN
hosted an election party at E.J.
Phair’s at Todos Santos Plaza
MT. DIABLO SCHOOL BOARD can-
didates Sherry Whitmarsh and
incumbent Gary Eberhart cele-
brated their sweeping victory.
CONCORD HILTON STAFFERS Karen Vincenzi
and Monica Barton promote the business
and personal benefits of the Concord Hilton
to Expo visitors
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce,
Lafayette, Pleasant Hill and Martinez.
“We’ve had a great response from a
lot of people. This event usually sells
out and this year is really no excep-
tion,” said McMahon. If the event con-
tinues to grow, McMahon is consider-
ing a larger facility for next year.
“This is counter to what a lot of peo-
ple would think economically would
happen. But for a lot of businesses this
is a cost-effective way for them to show
off what they are doing and get out
there in the world.”
Mary Stark of RBC Life Sciences is
one such entrepreneur. Stark expects
the wellness industry to be a trillion-
dollar industry by 2010. largely
because of aging baby boomers who
were brought up using supplements.
By Mike Dunn
RoundAbout Concord
If you have an event that
serves for the community
good, know a longtime
Concord resident who has con-
tributed to the improvement of
the city, or know a worthy
cause that needs to be high-
lighted, submit it to The
Concordian on our Web site
at www.myconcordian.com
and we will try to include it in
our Round About section.
December, 2008
Spaghetti dinner benefits the
Monument Crisis Center
OFFICER RON TURNER JOINS THE OLD SPAGHETTI FACTORY owners, staff, Supervisor Susan Bonilla
and Monument Crisis Center’s Sandra Scherer for a dinner to raise funds for the MCC.
The Old Spaghetti Factory was
abuzz with fundraising diners on Nov.
19 when 15 percent of the total sales
went to the Monument Crisis Center.
Concord police officers waited on
tables, many filled with city employees
and the restaurant’s owners who came
to eat from the company headquarters
in Sacramento.
The Monument Crisis Center has
had its share of crises this year, run-
ning out of food several times in the
past few months. It is hoped that the
fundraiser will help the Center meet
the growing need anticipated in the
coming year.
Old Spaghetti Factory’s general
centenarians
Concordians celebrate 100 years
Recalling 100 years of loving life
n Dec. 5, 1908, a
O
two-pound pre-
mature baby girl
was delivered in a
remote Montana farm-
house. As unlikely as
her survival must have
been before the age of
incubators and neonatal
units, Marjorie Scott
grew strong in mind,
body and spirit.
The infant whose
first crib was a shoebox
placed atop a wood-
burning stove is now
celebrating her 100th
MARJORIE SCOTT has spent many
birthday with friends
years volunteering her time
and family.
Marjorie’s life has been defined by
her love of nurturing and growing
things. Her devotion to her family is a
natural extension of that love.
Happy to celebrate life with those
around her, Marjorie cherishes her
experiences and would never miss a
chance to go camping, as she did many
times in Yosemite. Married for more
than 55 years Marjorie and her hus-
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com
manager Heather Kawalkowski and
Concord Police Officer Ron Turner
were looking for a way to give back to
the community and County Supervisor
Susan Bonilla came up with the idea of
helping the Monument Crisis Center.
“City Manager Dan Keen reviewed
our request,” Turner explained, “and
said ‘hey it’s a great organization and
great city event.’ So the news went out
citywide to all our employees and they
got on the band wagon and came out to
support us.”
The event took a month and a half of
planning to come together. “Originally
See Crisis Center, page 11
band Donald owned
and operated a suc-
cessful florist busi-
ness and raised two
children. Although
Donald has since
passed, Marjorie’s
enjoyment of living
life to its fullest has
not diminished.
With her faith in
God unwavering,
Marjorie has served
and volunteered with
the Salvation Army
for more than 70
years. The resident of
Diamond Terrace in
Clayton continues to
give to all whom she encounters.
Celebrating the first 100 years of
this incredible life, Marjorie is joined
by her son and daughter, five grand-
children, 10 great grandchildren and
two great-great grandchildren.
Do you know someone who will
soon be 100? Please let us know at
info@myconcordian.com.
Mayor Bill Shinn
o pen
Reflecting on my term
as mayor of Concord
n December 8, we will be
O selecting a new mayor, so this
will be my last column.
I wanted to thank the Concordian
for allowing me to share a few
thoughts and issues with you, and to
thank all of the voters who re-elected
me to another four-year term on the
city council. I look forward to work-
ing hard for the community during
the next four years. It was equally
good to see Mark Peterson re-elected
as he brings more than a decade of
experience to the council.
LaShawn Wells was the third can-
didate. To him I say, ‘Good job! I
believe it is always best for the voters
to have choices.”
We have many challenges facing
us and I believe the continuity of
experience on the council will be crit-
ical.
The challenges facing the city will
be daunting. While we tout our budg-
et planning process, like the rest of
the cities in the region and state, we
are impacted immensely by what the
state government does.
As you know the recently adopted
state budget has an unanticipated
$11.2 billion shortfall, and the state’s
Legislative Analyst’s Office has a pre-
dicted shortfall of $27.8 billion, over
the nest 20 months.
We have seen the impact on the
city of Vallejo that earlier this year
filed for Chapter 9 bankruptcy, when
faced with their $16 million deficit.
The cities of Rio Vista and
Fairfield are reportedly talking to
bankruptcy attorneys as well. There
are even rumblings that San Diego’s
city council may be considering simi-
lar action.
Our city manager Dan Keen, is
working with our staff, using various
economic assumptions in order to
project the impact on our budget for
the next several years. His report will
be forthcoming and no doubt it will
not paint a great picture. Hopefully,
our budgetary practices will allow us
time to develop action plans to mini-
mize the impact. There will be hard
choices. The city council and the
public must work together on these
issues and the choices.
I promise you that we will be
proactive. Stay tuned and stay
involved.
LOOKING BACK ON 2008
As this is my last column, as your
Mayor, I want to review 2008 with
you.
Page 7
office
I pledged that as a council we
would not start any new programs,
and would instead concentrate on the
“nuts and bolts” of city governance.
To that extent we have now filled the
three critical vacancies: city manager,
assistant city manager and director
of human resources.
We have hired approximately 18
new police officers, and consequent-
ly, the police department is fully
staffed. We remain committed to
public safety and hopefully will con-
tinue to see funding provided from
the state.
Repairs to Ygnacio Valley Road
have been on-going and should be
completed in the coming months.
A world record was set at Todos
Santos when 2052 guitar players
gathered to play and sing ‘This Town
is Your Town’, led by Country Joe
McDonald.
I held “Mayor’s Office Hours” and
met with close to 100 Concord citi-
zens on matters of concern to them. I
hope the next mayor will continue
this practice. I also attended many
civic events involving many city and
regional groups and programs and
have met many of you. It was a great
experience!
We have worked hard with citizen
input and involvement on several
ordinance updates and programs,
none of which is bigger or more
important than the planning of the
Naval Weapon Station reuse, an issue
that will impact the city of Concord
over the next 30 years and beyond.
There is so much more to report.
Suffice it to say, this has been a very
busy year. I have enjoyed and been
privileged to have served as your
mayor. Perhaps in the years to come,
I will get the opportunity to do so
again.
Thank you.
Send your comments and con-
cerns to Bill shinn, the City Council
or city staff at
cityinfo@ci.concord.ca.us.
[Editor’s note: The Concordian
would like to thank Mayor Shinn for
his support, both for our launch in
June and his monthly column. His
message has always been “Get
involved in Concord,” which we take
to heart. We have no doubt of his
commitment to the city in his contin-
ued role on the city council and look
forward to reporting ongoing devel-
opments.]
Page 8
Clayton girl in need of heart/lung
transplant inspires
community spirit
By André Gensburger
The Concordian
here can be no news more devastating than to
T be told that your 5-year-old daughter has a
fatal disease and should, by all accounts,
already have died.
This was the news that Kathy and John Groebner
received in November 2007, after years of being
deferred by their doctors in Mankato, Minn., with
diagnoses far removed from the ultimate determina-
tion of idiopathic primary pulmonary hypertension.
This rare and life-threatening condition affects one
out of 3 million children with symptoms often misdi-
agnosed as less-threatening ailments such as asthma.
The Groebners had taken Katie Grace to have a
hole in her heart repaired with an outpatient proce-
dure using a surgical line threaded up through her
groin and a second threaded through her back. No
hole was located and the actual condition of Katie
Grace’s heart and lungs was revealed. The news was
shocking.
“No one believed us that something was wrong,”
Kathy said.
A lifetime of problems
From the time she was born prematurely, Katie
Grace had always been sick and weak, with episodes
of passing out. The family doctor deferred further
testing. “Even in his records, he wrote: ‘Mother com-
pares child to older sibling’ and that he told me ‘Not
all children are the same,’ ” Kathy said. “When she
passed out, they said it was acid reflux.” The doctor
prescribed Prilosec to reduce stomach acid.
It was only when Katie Grace was 3 and showing
slower development of motor and cognitive skills that
there were other tests, but most showed nothing con-
clusive. She was assigned a physical therapist, who
thought Katie Grave was having seizures. However,
tests proved negative.
One gastroenterologist noted in a letter to the fam-
ily doctor that she had a 1/6 systolic murmur at the
base of the heart, but “the doctor said a lot of chil-
dren have heart murmurs and grow out of them,”
Kathy reported.
Yet each time Katie Grace would get sick, simple
illnesses like a cold would become complicated and
require hospitalization.
In November ’07, the 5-year-old started a pre-
school readiness class three days a week to help her
catch up. The family began to notice a serious decline
in her ability to stay alert and focused, and Katie
Grace would get irritable and exhibit stress-related
patterns such as thumb-sucking.
“That Thanksgiving, we went into the doctor as we
were all sick and our doctor was gone,” her mom
said. Another doctor diagnosed pneumonia and start-
ed antibiotic treatment until a newly licensed doctor
contraindicated the pneumonia diagnosis due to neg-
ative lab tests. Instead, he prescribed a cough syrup
to help her congestion and difficulty breathing while
he conducted more tests.
“Two days later he called – he didn’t want to tell
me on the phone,” Kathy said. “Her heart was so sig-
nificantly enlarged that he had called an immunolo-
gist and a cardiologist to look at the results and the
imaging.”
An echocardiogram did not show anything, howev-
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008
er, based on the symptoms and the lab
work, it was suggested that a hole was
present that needed to be closed – solving
all the problems.
Getting to the right diagnosis
Instead, it was the start of further prob-
lems. Although Katie Grace was awake and
chatting with the doctor during the proce-
dure, the doctor told Kathy: “By all rights,
she shouldn’t be alive right now.”
Katie Grace had an enlarged heart,
with major bronchial arteries closed,
inhibiting the ability of her lungs to
receive enough oxygen. Attempts to open
the arteries failed.
That was when they were told she would
need a heart and lung transplant. “They
said there were no places in the area.
Nothing in Minnesota could help us.”
Then, guilt set in. John’s aunt had lost
a child to pulmonary hypertension and
the hint of a genetic link made him feel
responsible. Kathy, who had endured dif-
ficult pregnancies with her three other
children, blamed herself.
The family was referred to Stanford
Medical Center and Dr. Jeffrey A.
Feinstein, associate professor of pedi- Andre’ Gensburger/The Concordian
atrics and cardiology. KATIE GRACE GROEBNER dreams of having a normal life without PH
In March 2008, the family made a trip
to Stanford to have a Broviac catheter installed into a sobbing uncontrollably and told the store owner her
vein near Katie Grace’s heart. Then, medicines could story. This connection led to a local church group, and
be administered on an ongoing basis to help control a Clayton family offered the Groebners the use of a
the dilation of her blood vessels as well as control the two-bedroom guest house. A posting on local Blog site
pulmonary hypertension. Claycord.com led to more community support.
The treatments have been lowering her arterial
Myriad of complications blood pressure to promising levels. “The longest sur-
Back home again, she developed a fever in May. viving person on this medication has lasted 20
With limitations on medications and how high a years,” Kathy said. “That will make Katie Grace 26
fever she can handle while using the Broviac, the years old. It is still not a high quality of life. She can’t
family struggled to get her admitted to the hospital. bathe herself, can’t have kids, can’t run …”
Seeing his daughter listless and her fever rising, John And with no timeframe for a transplant, life is very
carried her into the emergency room and was initially much one day at a time. At her age, a transplant car-
ignored until the family made a scene and Katie was ries a lower life expectancy and a higher failure rate
having convulsions. Her fever had spiked to 106 compared to the medication.
degrees and she was admitted. “There is a risk of rejection for transplants,”
During the seven days in the hospital, there were Feinstein said, “with recipients having a five-year,
many issues which the family has yet to resolve. An fifty-percent survival rate. Stronger medication does
IV needle popped a vein and led to swelling of her have the potential to repair the process.” Feinstein
abdomen. Two days later, a doctor said she had a noted that it is important to follow the patient with
bladder infection and was going to send her home. continued echocardiograms and adjustments to the
After the family’s protest, a nurse called nearby medications.
Children’s Hospital, which admitted Katie Grace with
a severe kidney infection and elevated white blood Holding the family together
count. There she was diagnosed with bladder reflux, Katie Grace attends kindergarten at a local ele-
a condition that allows urine to back up and infect mentary school this year. “I have to let her go to
the kidneys. school,” Kathy said. “I have to give her everything I
To compound issues, hospitals are wary of touch- can to make the quality of her life the best it can be.”
ing the Broviac unit. “If she gets an infection while Savanha, Katie Grace’s 9-year-old sister, is caught
using the unit, it can be fatal,” Kathy said. in the shadow of the illness.
The family sold anything they could not take, put “I take it pretty well,” Savanha said. “It makes me
their house on the market, bought an RV and set off aware of what she has and what she doesn’t have. I
for California. Before they left, their community held get to watch my parents mix the medicine that she
a fund-raiser to help pay medical costs. will get. Next year, when I am 10, they will show me
While living in the RV in California, Kathy stopped how to do it.”
at a flower shop to send some flowers to a family
member. Unable to contain her emotions, Kathy began Continued on next page
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 9

The medicine arrives by FedEx, with
different medications that have to be
mixed properly for the Broviac unit to
dispense. In addition, she takes a set of
pills which have side effects. There are
dual fridges for medications as well as
food and a strict regimen on how to clean
the countertops and preparation area.
“The medication costs between
$10,000 and $30,000 per month,”
Kathy said. Right now, they are cov-
ered by MediCal.
Meanwhile, the family car is on loan
to an elderly aunt with chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease who
lives in the San Pablo area. “People ask
my husband why he gave her his car,”
Kathy said, “and he tells them that she
is 61 with COPD, which would be dan-
gerous for her if she breaks down. If he
breaks down, he can walk.”
Still, the family strives for normalcy.
“One day, we hope to be able to buy a
house,” Kathy said. “I want to provide
a place for other families who are going
through what we have been going
through.”
Katie Grace’s thoughts turn to
Christmas, announcing that she wants
a playhouse but quickly switches her
choice to a giant snow globe that blow
snowflakes around.
“Did you see my room?” she asked.
There, she hangs from the bunk bed
ladder, then points to a picture of
Orlando Bloom from “Pirates of the
Caribbean.” “I’m going to marry him,”
she said.
Kathy has heard this before. “Where
will you marry him at?” she asked.
Katie Grace’s eyes light up and she
breaks into a huge smile, exposing
missing front teeth. “At Coldstone
(Creamery),” she said.
For more information visit
http://caringbridge.org/visit/
katiegrace. Donations can be made to
the Katie Grace Benefit Fund at US
Bank at ww.usbank.com. The family
accepts emails at groebs4@live.com.

Take Charge of
your Future!
Gem show offers diverse collection
By Mike Dunn
The Concordian
A mysterious boulder stood at the entrance to the
Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society’s 49th annual
club show and sale in November.
The boulder was a 5,000-pound jade nephrite
with gold streaks. Owned by Tom Francis, the boul-
der added to the draw of the show that had 35 ven- FREE Information
dors selling everything from raw rocks to finished Call Now
items and even fossils. 1 - 877 - 336 - 8369,
“We have a great venue with several different dis- ext. 4712
plays, demonstrators, vendors and silent auctions,”
2-Minute Recorded Message
says Mary Jernigan, an admitted rock hound and a
member of the society.
Jernigan was enthusiastically showing visitors
around the show floor, introducing them to some of
the vendors and answering questions, all the while Healing Arts Studio
helping vendors when she could.
Ed Rigel, a collector, explorer and noted expert on FM Alexander Technique
fossils, ferns and petrified woods, was among those Mike Dunn/The Concordian Posture therapy for equestrian,
selling at the show. He has traveled the world, work- BARRIE BIELER, of the Gem and Mineral Society, demonstrates how to
inspect a raw gemstone.
sports and backpack issues
ing with other paleobotanists to identify and date
many collections. A Siberian cave bear and fossilized
rhino skull drew a lot of attention to his booth. Monday of the month at Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton
Natural Medicine Chest
Road. For more information, contact Jernigan at 707-372- includes: Dr. John Lee’s progesterone cream,
The Mineral and Gem society meets at 7:30 p.m. the first 0637 or visit ccmgs.org/index.html. grape seed/pine bark antioxidants and
neti pot (as seen on Oprah)

also available for lectures

T Call Carol Longshore
h 685-6710
e
Healing
H
u
t

Winter Special
FREE 20 minute
session for
new customers
Page 10 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

directory of
advertisers
Greater Concord

Business Services
Law Offices of Douglas A. Prutton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .677-5080
New Dimension Service Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .356-7984
Take Charge of Your Future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-336-8369 x 4712
chamber of
commerce
Todos Santos Business Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .521-9922
Construction and Trades
Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Chamber’s China tour a
Hatley Construction Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-8554
KR Design & Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-8507 huge hit - more trips planned
Nu Image Painting and Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-8507
Mario Navea General Building Contractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5260
Prima Building Supply, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .363-9497
Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801
Tim’s Home Improvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9471
Dentist
Pediatric Dentistry of Pleasant Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-1188
Robert H. Waldman D.D.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-6940
Dining and Entertainment
Alpine Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-7220
Cookies By Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-9901
Englund’s Bistro and Tea Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .691-8327
Serendipity Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-0882
Una Mas Mexican Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6262
Financial Services
CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900
College Planning Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .627-3570
Diablo Valley Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .771-5600
New York Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .963-7782
Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-877-8328 Photo by Chamber of Commerce
MEMBERS OF THE CONCORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ’S 2008 China Trade Mission pause for a
Funerals photo along the Great Wall before continuing with the tour.
Ouimet Bros. Concord Funeral Chapel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 most US hotels. The tour guides were
Government By Keith C. McMahon experts in group dynamics -their
Bill Shinn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .671-0703 President & CEO knowledge of history, economics, cul-
ture and familiarity of our customs
he Concord Chamber of

T
Home and Garden
added so much to the amazing sites
Appliance Repairs by Bruce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Commerce’s 2008 China Trade
and scenery we were experiencing.
HandymanRick.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-8956 Mission attendees have
The tour group’s selection of places to
Navlet’s Garden Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-0550 returned with stories of awe and
visit – historic landmarks mixed with
Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 amazement from their whirlwind tour
canal rides and visits to local resi-
Sweep Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .363-9479 of China. Tour organizers promised a
dences and markets via rickshaw,
Today Hauling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .497-4907 feature-packed trip, with visits to
made the whole trip one we will never
many of the top attractions and top
Homes and Housing forget. In fact, it made us want to go
destinations in the Mainland China.
Aegis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .692-5838 back again!”
Tour participants arrived in
Bennison, John - J. Rockcliff Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-6965 The Concord Chamber sponsored
Beijing, spent the night in the five-
Coates and Sowards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .408-371-8770 x 19 the Trade Mission to offer greater
star Beijing King Wing Hotel and in
Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 education into the opportunities and
the following days visited Tiananmen
French, Lynne - Windermere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8787 challenges in the global marketplace.
Square , the Temple of Heaven, the
Lueck, Richard - Century 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-834-9096 There could not be a better time to
Forbidden City, and the Great Wall.
Plaza Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-1200 learn more about this emerging giant,
They then boarded a flight on the fifth
Van Fleet, Josie - J. Rockcliff Realtors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .280-6470 as the world looks ahead to the chal-
day of travel to Shanghai and onto a
Personal Products and Services lenges of the new millennium. China
tour of Suzhou including an evening
Clayton Mind and Body Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0686 will continue to be a key player in the
dinner show with Chinese acrobats.
Cutting Loose Hair Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .609-8807 future of the economy, environment
Other highlights included touring the
Isagenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .570-5187 and human rights.
Lingering Garden, Tiger Hill and
Just Hair Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .827-4744 The Chamber will host two more
Hanshan Temple.
Perfect Tan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8261 tours in Spring 2009 with departure
Among the guests were various city
Salon Epiffani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .363-5432 dates of April 17 and 18 and more
officials, elected representatives and
The Healing Hut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-6710 alternative side trips for those that are
other VIP’s. The nine-day tour was
Wentling Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-7760 seeking more options than just the
touted as a once-in-a-lifetime high-
Yoga Sol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288-9642 trade tour package. The costs of the
value experience, a promise that was
tour are greatly reduced through part-
Pet Services delivered. Comments from travelers
nering with tour organizers and busi-
Aussie Pet Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-738-6624 included, “… beyond what I had hoped
ness associations. For information
Disney Pet Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4244 for” and “I would encourage anyone to
please contact the Concord Chamber
Rodies Feed and Country Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 take advantage of the Chamber’s tour
at (925) 685-1181.
in the future.” Another said it was
Recreation really, “a wonderful experience and I
Traveling Trainers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6931 made great new friends and wonder- The Concord Chamber has been
Shopping ful memories.” And still another supporting the Concord business com-
Clayton Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-3325 added, “What a wonderful surprise! It munity for over 70 years. For more
HobbyTown USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-3802 was everything they promised and information on the Chamber call us at
more! The hotels offered accommoda- (925) 685-1181 or visit us on-line at
Services, Other tions that were equal to or exceeded www.concord chamber.com.
Concord Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-9113
December, 2008
Concord Historical Society
scenes
society
from the
Eucalyptus trees lined Todos Santos plaza in 1868 opens in style
odos Santos was laid out in
T 1868 and dedicated to the peo-
ple by Don Salvio Pacheco. At
that time, the square was lined with
eucalyptus trees.
In 1903, John Burke, the town’s first
recorder, local judge and postmaster,
obtained two large cannons from the
USS Independence. He donated them
to Todos Santos where they decorated
the plaza until they mysteriously disap-
peared in the 1940s. During the early
1900s, a bandstand was built and the
citizens enjoyed many Sunday after-
noon concerts. In 1917 the Carnegie
Library was built in the plaza.
In 1931 the aging eucalyptus trees
were becoming a problem, so several
civic groups raised the money to have
them removed.
Paul Keller, a floriculturist and busi-
nessman who grew up in Concord,
designed an 800 feet pergola, said to
be the world’s largest, and planted the
greatest varieties of wisteria in the
world.
In the 1950s the pergola, wisteria
and eventually the library and band-
stand were removed and benches, pic-
nic tables, new trees and flower beds
replaced them.
The Downtown Property Owners
Association launched a beautification
program in the late 60s and the city
council adopted Betty Beede’s idea of
officially naming the plaza Todos
There’s more to the post office
than simply stamps
By Bong M. Tongol
Concord Postal Carrier
Special to The Concordian
W
orking at the post office is not
only a challenging and reward-
ing career, it’s also a daily
grind where time is of the essence.
The letter carriers, mail handlers, win-
dow and distribution clerks and manage-
ment join forces to accomplish a com-
mon goal: “We Deliver Right On Time
and Every Time.”
The day starts in the wee hours of the
morning, when 30-foot mail trucks roll
down the dock and mail handlers unload
an assortment of mail in white tubs,
trays of first-class mail and different
sized parcels – each containing identify-
ing zip and tracking codes.
The mail comes from the Oakland
Distribution Center, where mail from dif-
ferent parts of the world is processed,
collated and distributed to various post
offices. Each delivery truck follows a
rigid schedule of on-time delivery at
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com
New Pittsburg
based Mt. Diablo
Recycling Center
A huge pergola, removed in the 1950s, once stood in Todos Santos proudly draped with a
variety of fragrant wisteria vines.
Santos Plaza. Beede, a civic minded
Concordian, once owned Beede’s, a
downtown retail store.
Todos Santos Plaza is widely used
today in many of the same ways, with
weekly entertainment during spring
and summer; summer movies; the
Farmers Market on Tuesdays and
Thursdays all year round.
As in times gone by, the citizens of
Concord still enjoy the gathering of
every office destination and returns back
to the center with outgoing mail to be
processed and distributed accordingly.
As soon as mail is unloaded at each
post office, it will be distributed corre-
spondingly by zip codes. Distribution
clerks case up the loose first-class mail to
each designated route case slot, and the
mail handlers follow up by distributing
stacks of foot-size white tubs with an
assortment of loose flats to each route.
The Concord Post Office has five differ-
ent zip codes in its delivery systems, with
about 155 carrier routes and 252 letter
carriers on the roster. Each route has 400-
600 business or residential deliveries.
Section supervisors’ days starts at 6
a.m. They are glued to their computers,
checking schedules, counting and track-
ing the mail and the availability of deliv-
ery trucks – all the while hoping for no
unexpected sick calls, accidents or dog
bites.
Carriers work an eight-hour day,
which includes casing the mail, pulling it
down and delivering it on the street.
Often, that objective is not realized due
Photo courtesy of the Concord Historical Society
friends and families for all the activi-
ties provided in Todos Santos Plaza
and knowing its history give great
thanks to Salvio Pacheco for his vision.
Material gathered by “History of
Concord, its Progress and Promise”
by Edna May Andrews
For more information contact the
Concord Historical Society, 1601
Sutter St. Concord (925) 827-3380
to an unexpected high volume of mail
that needs to be cased, following the
delivery deadlines demanded by individ-
ual companies.
Sometimes, a supervisor requests that
a carrier case only first-class mail and hit
the street on time to complete the route
in the prescribed time limit.
Occasionally, section supervisors are
instructed to do street observations,
making sure carriers are following their
delivery sequence and emphasizing safe
driving practices.
Ultimately, the carriers have the
biggest responsibility. They are on the
front lines anytime of the day, enduring
unpredictable weather and unexpected
adversities along the way.
The next time you adhere a stamp on
an envelope, take a moment to think
about all the work that makes letter
delivery possible.
For more information, visit the
Concord Post Office at 2121 Meridian
Park Blvd. or call 800-275-8777.
Page 11
Mary Garaventa and the Garaventa
family held a grand opening gala Nov.
13 at their new Mt. Diablo Recycling
Center in Pittsburg. The event celebrat-
ed the opening of the recycling facility
on Sept. 12. Hundreds of Contra
Costa’s top leaders were in attendance
to mingle and dine in the brand new
facility appropriately decorated with
bales of recycled cans, plastics and
paper.
Mt. Diablo Recycling is the largest
“new generation” recycling facility in
California. The center processes recy-
clables utilizing new high-tech comput-
er equipment so recyclable materials
no longer need to be manually separat-
ed. This process significantly increases
the amount of materials recovered and
turned into new products.
“Going green is not new to our fami-
ly,” said Sil Garaventa, Jr., CEO of
Garaventa Enterprises. Garaventa
reminisced about his grandfather,
Andrew Moresco, who operated a one-
truck garbage route in the 1930’s in
what was “the country town of
Concord.”
“My grandfather was the original
recycler, recycling glass bottles, cans,
rags and other products,” Garaventa
said.
Crisis Center,
from page 11
it was going to be 15 percent of each
bill for those who came in with a
Monument Crisis Center flyer,”
Kawalkowski said, “then we changed it
to 15 percent of the total sales for the
night.”
Kawalkowski noted that in addition
to this event, she had done events with
five local elementary schools: Sun
Terrace, Monte Gardens, Queen Of All
Saints and Wren Avenue Elementary.
“We have contacted all of the elemen-
tary schools in Concord,” she said,
“and so we expect we are going to do
even more for next year.”
Sandra Scherer, executive director
of The Monument Crisis Center
explained the Center’s need. “We have
6,300 people that received food from
us for October - a four-day supply.
That is 1,700 families that were serv-
iced by the Center. We are seeing
almost 200 new families every month
so that starts to really build pressure
on the Center.”
For more information contact the
Monument Crisis Center at (925) 825-
7751 or e-mail: info@monumentcrisis-
center.org You can also visit their Web
site at
http://monumentcrisiscenter.org/
By Mike Dunn
Page 12 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

RELAX December 2008:

We’re finally in our 925-673-0686
new location
Celebrate our reopening on
Sat., Dec. 6, noon to 5 p.m.
Clayton Mind &
Body Connections HAPPY
6200 Center Street, Suite I
Grab bag for prizes (next door to Clayton Pioneer) Downtown Concord hosts
tree lighting, Santa, Wizard of Oz,
and the first Holiday Walk

LIDAY owntown Concord celebrates District businesses will open their

HO TS D the holiday season with a num-

ber of free Saturday events on
doors before the city’s tree lighting
event in Todos Santos Plaza and

EVEN
Dec. 6 and 13 at Todos Santos Plaza,
located on Willow Pass Road between
Grant and Mt. Diablo streets.
Live Dinner Music
EVERY Friday Night! Downtown Holiday Walk
Dec. 6
This year, the Todos Santos
12/7 - Santa’s Bingo Par-Tea! $25 pp Business Association will join the
A jolly good time playing Bingo, winning prizes and enjoying rest of the country in what has fast
holiday food and teas. Bring your camera! become a holiday tradition.
On Dec 6, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.,
12/11 - A Harp For The Holidays! $40 pp more than a dozen Todos Santos
A delicious 4 course dinner concert w/ harpist Cynthia Schultz
invite visitors to enjoy a festive, holi-
day atmosphere with cider and
treats.
After warming up with cider, stroll
on over to the First Presbyterian
Church just one block off the Plaza at
1111 Colfax St. and climb aboard the
carriage for a festive ride around
town (nominal charge). After the tree
lighting and sing-along, stay in a fes-
tive mood with some downtown
shopping and dining.

12/14 - Teddy Bear Christmas Tea, $25 pp Mt. Diablo High School’s Two days
Teddy themed treats and a free bear to take home! International Hospitality only
and Tourism Academy
12/18 - "Christmas Strings" Dinner! $40 pp
Enjoy 4 courses as Cole Tutino & his cello perform holiday classics!

12/24 - A Candlelight Christmas Tea, $25 pp

A Royal Holiday Teatime w/ lovely music, teas, & treats by candlelight!

By Reservation Only
2002 Salvio St., Concord Tues., Dec. 16, 11:45 am
(925) 691-8327 Wed., Dec. 17, 11:30 am

www.EnglundsBistro.com $25 per person

Advertisers in the Holiday Guide does it.”

APPLIANCE REPAIRS
BY BRUCE
Appliance Repairs by Bruce, located in
Clayton, is thrilled to be able to service the
appliance repair needs of the community.
Bruce Linsenmeyer and his wife Holly pride
themselves on their availability, with Clayton
and Concord residents receiving the benefit of
proximity.
“They get appointments first thing in the
morning or late afternoon times,” which makes
his service incredibly convenient for everyone.
While he generally works from 9-5, Monday
through Friday, he also schedules emergency
weekend appointments. “My customers should-
n’t have to wait until Monday to hear from
someone.”
Customer service is the key to this business,
and the key reason Bruce went into business
for himself.
“Everyone talks customer service, but no one
Holly runs a tight ship to ensure that their
reputation remains spotless. “He’s there when
he says he’s going to be there.”
Making appointments is simple. Call (925)
672-2700, visit their Website at http://appli-
ancerepairsbybruce.googlepages.com, or
email repairsbybruce@gmail.com.
BURKIN ELECTRIC
Lighting up your life is what Jim Burkin does
best. As the sole proprietor of Burkin Electric,
Jim handles all of your residential, commercial,
light industrial and remodeling needs.
This year, light up your home for the holi-
days. Jim can install safe, approved electric
outlets right where you need them. He will pro-
vide free estimates for residential ceiling fans,
recessed lighting and landscape lighting, serv-
ice and repair. Jim is the first and last person
you’ll see on any job because he believes in
excellent service and a quality product. Jim has
devoted his 30-year career to the electrical
industry working in a variety of venues. He
does all the work himself, so you know it’s
done right. Call Jim for a free estimate at
(925) 672-1519 or (925) 212-3339.
Continued on next page
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 13

The Concordian is celebrating the holiday

season with a series of guides to inform you of Hair for the holidays
local events and business offerings Individual solutions for hair loss
 Non-surgical hair restoration for men & women
 Free private consultation

HOLIDAYS Across from

Tree Lighting and Mayor’s
Sing Along Dec. 6
Concord’s official Tree Lighting and
Mayor’s Sing-Along takes place
Saturday evening, Dec. 6 from 5 to 7
p.m. in Todos Santos Plaza.
The festive tree in the Plaza will
light up with hundreds of LED lights
this year, in keeping with the city’s
efforts to protect the environment. The
energy-saving LED lights replace the
traditional lights used in previous
years.
Entertainment on the Todos Santos
stage includes performances by Mt.
Diablo High School Red Devil Voice
Ensemble, Diablo Vista Chorus,
Concord High School Jazz Band,
Ladies First! vocal group, Fair Oaks
Church Kids’ Club Choir, Calvary
Temple Carolers, and St. Francis of
Assisi Children’s Chorus.
The entertainment will be followed
John Muir Hospital since 1975
2425 East St. Ste. #19, Concord 925-827-4744
by a sing-along at 6:30 p.m. and count-
down to the tree lighting at 6:45 p.m.
Special guest emcee is ABC-7 News
anchor Dan Ashley.
Free holiday buttons, songbooks and 15% off
refreshments will be available while Labor service
supplies last. Elena Rowan, Highlands
Elementary School student, will be rec- charge
ognized during the program for design-
ing the holiday button. We service ALL
The event will be broadcast live on computers
Concord Cable TV 28 (Comcast) and Desktop and Laptop
29 (Astound) and can be viewed on the Warranty and
city’s Website at ww.cityofconcord.org. non-warranty.
Free parking is available within easy Bring your computer in for
servicing and receive 15% off
walking distance. The Todos Santos labor service charges. Offer
Parking Center is at Concord Avenue expires December 31, 2008
and Pacheco Street. The Salvio Street
NEW DIMENSION SERVICE SOLUTIONS
Garage is located between Grant and 1825 Sutter Street, Suite B, Concord
Colfax streets. For more information (925) 356-7984 (Concord)
call the downtown events hotline (925) or (415) 597-5900 (San Francisco)
671-3464. www.ndssolutions.com
Continued on page 14

The American
Kids’ smiles shine at
Give your child the gift We are open Monday
Academy of Pediatric
Dentistry recommends
the 1st check up at
the 1st birthday.

of savings! thru Saturday.

24 hour emergency
care is available.

Purchase a 5.75%
APY
seven-month certificate.

1051 A Detroit Avenue,

Concord

Minimum $100, Maximum $10,000 APY=Annual Dr. Amybeth Harmon

Call 925-771-5600 or visit Percentage Yield - Penalty for early withdrawal Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
www.diablovalleyfcu.org today! may be imposed. Rates are subject to change. 2710 Pleasant Hill Road
Available for members up to age 17. (925) 947-1188 www.phkidsdentist.com

Advertisers in the
CD FEDERAL
CD Federal Credit Union is a member-oriented
financial institution with a family environment.
They are not-for-profit and have been serving
members since 1954, offering a wide range of
financial products and services such as free check-
ing, online banking, mobile banking, bill pay, auto
and home loans, credit cards, free financial plan-
ning and much more. CD Federal also regularly
offers free financial education seminars to mem-
bers – see Website, www.cdfcu.org, for a schedule
Holiday Guide
of upcoming seminars and events.
CD Federal is insured by the NCUA (National
Credit Union Administration) and ASI (American
Share Insurance). Each individual share account
is insured for $350,000 and additional insur-
ance is available according to account owner-
ship. Please ask for details.
To learn more and how you can join, please
call (925) 825-0900, visit www.cdfcu.org or stop
by 1855 Second Street in Concord. They look
forward to being your financial partner.
CLAYTON MIND AND BODY used here. Drop by for a chat with David about
a good gift package or just for a cup of tea.
CONNECTION 6200 Center St. Ste I, Clayton or call (925) 673-
This comfortable little day spa in downtown
0686 for an appointment or to order a gift certifi-
Clayton offers a variety of massages, facials,
cate. David will happily mail it or deliver it for
body treatments, foot and hand treatments.
you.
David Godsoe and his staff can provide as little
as a quick half- hour massage or facial to a
relaxing five-and-a-half-hour day package.
COOKIES BY DESIGN
In 1983 Cookies By Design began the con-
Remember that a massage is not just for her –
cept of combining two very popular gifts, flowers
it's a proven stress reducer, perfect for this time
and cookies into one deliciously, delightful con-
of year.
cept. The Cookie Bouquet. 25 years later, the
CMBC is a member of SpaFinder so let those
"original " cookie bouquet company operates
relatives and friends that live far away know they
can give SpaFinder gift certificates that can be Continued on next page
Page 14 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

Tan for the Continued from page 13

holidays
Gift Cards available
Benefit showing of “Wizard
of Oz” Dec. 13
2:30 p.m. After making a colorful
entrance on a bright red fire truck in
On Saturday, Dec. 13, Brenden front of Salvio Pacheco Square, Santa
GRAND OPENING Theatre and the Todos Santos Business and his elves will hear children's holi-
SPECIAL FREE TAN one per customer. exp. 12/31/08
Association sponsor a free showing of day wishes in the Salvio Pacheco
in Clayton Station near Walgreens the movie “Wizard of Oz” at 9:30 a.m. Square courtyard.
5435-L Clayton Rd., 672-8261 www.perfecttanca.com Admission is free with the donation of The event is free. Optional photos
a new, unwrapped toy for Concord’s with Santa are available for a fee. The
Monumental Toy Drive. Brenden Todos Santos Business Association will
Theatre is located two blocks from offer holiday gift items.
Todos Santos Plaza at the corner of
Galindo and Salvio streets.
Toy Drive donations
Dec. 6 & 13
New, unwrapped toys will be collect-
For all your ed at both the Dec. 6 and Dec. 13
Electrical Needs. events for the City’s Monumental Toy
Drive that benefits low income families
in Concord. Organizers are in particu-
lar need of games, puzzles, dolls, action
figures and sports equipment.
Free parking is available within easy
walking distance. The Todos Santos
Santa’s Grand Arrival Parking Center is at Concord Avenue
Dec. 13 and Pacheco Street. The Salvio Street
After the movie, families are invited Garage is located between Grant and
All work done by owner. to Santa’s Grand Arrival at Salvio Colfax streets. For more information
Pacheco Square, 2151 Salvio St., across call the downtown events hotline (925)
Residential from Todos Santos Plaza, from noon to 671-3464.
Commercial g Industrial
 Professional Installation of:  Electrical Service Upgrade
Ceiling Fans, Recessed &  Spa Installation
Track Lighting  Custom Homes
 Kitchen or Bath Remodel  Office & Building
 Exterior/Security/Landscape Maintenance Repairs
Lighting  Insurance Repairs
 Complete Home Wiring -  Troubleshooting
Old & New & much more
James J. Burkin
Bonded & Insured Licensed l Lic. # C10-631523 Sole Proprietor

Call Jim for a FREE Estimate Today

phone cell
925.672.1519 925.212.3339
Serving Contra Costa since 1991 30 years experience

www.burkinelectric.net

Advertisers in the
approximately 200 stores nationwide.
Each Cookies By Design Shoppe across the
U.S. offers unique, personalized cookie bou-
quets, gourmet cookies, and other specialty
gifts, all hand crafted with care. We invite you to
browse our website, www.cookiesbydesign.com,
call our trained cookie consultants, or visit one
of our shoppes to get a taste of what we can do
for you.
We are conveniently located in the Clayton
Station Shopping Center, next door to Safeway
in Clayton. Our shoppe hours are 8am to 6pm
Monday through Friday, and 10am to 4pm on
Saturday. We offer same day delivery in Clayton
and all surrounding cities. Order over the
Holiday Guide
phone, or stop in, look around and enjoy the
aroma of fresh baked cookies daily. We look
forward to seeing you. Stop by Cookies by
Design in the Clayton Station at 5433 Clayton
Rd. or call 524-9901.
CUTTING LOOSE HAIR STUDIO
Need a fun and welcoming place to have your
hair cut, colored, highlighted, or extended? What
about facial waxing, permanent makeup as well
as other services?
Cutting Loose Hair Studio offers you ten highly
qualified reasons why you should stop by: Janice,
Danette, Carol, Kelli, Nici, Zia, Crystal, Cassie,
Laura, and Vanessa, all of whom will be happy to
make you feel comfortable while they dazzle you
with their work.
Cutting Loose has been around for eight years
offering a modern, fun and upbeat place to come
and feel pampered. Conveniently located on
Clayton Rd. by Bailey Rd., Cutting Loose 4701
Clayton Rd., Ste A, Concord (925) 798-6161.
DIABLO VALLEY FEDERAL
CREDIT UNION
Founded in 1961, Diablo Valley Federal
Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial institu-
tion that provides cost-effective financial services
for its member-owners, unlike traditional banks
that seek to maximize profit for the benefit of
outside stockholders.
During these uncertain economic times, it's
important to know that you have the option of
dealing with a trusted hometown financial part-
ner. They encourage you to look to them for
whatever your financial needs may be, and to
refer family and friends who are looking for that
same value, confidence and trust.
Diablo Valley Federal Credit Union serves
anyone living, working, worshipping or attend-
ing school in central Contra Costa County. Your
funds are insured up to at least $250,000 by
the National Credit Union Administration a U.S.
Government agency.
They are located at 1051 Detroit Avenue in
Concord, next to Costco. For more information,
please visit their website,
www.diablovalleyfcu.org, or call (925) 771-
5600.
Continued on next page
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 15

(925) 288-9642
Come lose weight, gain strength,
Holiday treats from reduce stress, honor your body.
Englund’s Bistro & Tea Room All classes are beginner friendly.

our intro
EARL GREY HOLIDAY TRUFFLES
2/3 cup whipping cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Present
this ad for $5 off special
Coupon may not be redeemed for cash, and must be presented at time of purchase, coupon good for
1 teaspoon light corn syrup entire household. One promotion per person. Some restrictions apply. Expires 1/5/2009
2 Earl Grey tea bags
8 ounces semi sweet chocolate, chopped
Chocolate coating
Chocolate sprinkles

In small saucepan, bring cream, butter, and syrup to a boil. Remove from
Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc.
heat and add tea bags. Steep 5 min., then remove tea bags. 35 years experience
Add chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth. Cover and refrig- We repair all major appliances,
erate 4 hours.
Spoon teaspoons of chocolate onto a parchment lined baking sheet. Roll most major brands, and we’re local
each piece into a ball. Place in freezer to keep firm while preparing chocolate
Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer, 30 year Clayton residents
coating.
Melt chocolate coating according to directions. Quickly dip balls in coating Office: (925) 672-2700, Cell: (925) 956-8605
and sprinkles. Refrigerate until firm. Store in refrigerator for one week or in State of California B.E.A.R  license #A44842
freezer for one month. ApplianceRepairsByBruce.googlepages.com

Nothing says high-end 12 months

like natural stone. same as cash
financing available
For countertops, bar and vanity tops, bath (on approved credit)

and shower enclosures and fireplaces.

Owned and operated by
Rick Fox and Steve Neal FREE
In-Home Estimates
335-9801
3795 Pacheco Blvd., Martinez
www.straightlineimports.com FREE
Full service remodeling Lic.#789325 18 gauge
When only the best is good enough call stainless steel sink
10% off of all
Straight Line Imports
with all purchases and
Eclipse faucets through December 31, 2008
Some restrictions apply.

Advertisers in the Holiday Guide Isagenix provides a gourmet selection of

ENGLUND’S BISTRO
AND TEA ROOM
Christmas is in the air at Englund's this month
with their new holiday decor and menu featuring
white chocolate and peppermint scones with
new holiday tea flavors. Open for lunch and
teatime seven days a week and dinner
Wednesday through Saturday, they're now also
serving up a special weekend brunch. Savor
eggs Benedict and Mimosas from 9 a.m. to 2
p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Englund's now features live dinner music
every Friday evening starting at 6 p.m. when the
dinner menu offers such delectable items as
lamb chops in pomegranate reduction, grilled
salmon, Steak Marsala, and Chicken Oscar.
On Wednesday December 24th, Englund's
will host an elegant Candlelight Christmas Tea
at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. with champagne, finger
sandwiches, scones & holiday desserts. Make
your reservation at (925) 691-8327.
ISAGENIX
"Increased consumption of calorie-dense,
processed foods, saturated fats and sugars,
reduced physical activity, stress, and impurities
that enter our body are increasing our waist-
lines while decreasing our quality of life," says
Wendy Moore of Isagenix.
delicious and nutritious foods to feed your
cells and speed up the elimination of harmful
impurities that burden your health.
Isagenix requires no stoves, no ovens, no
grills, no microwaves, and of course, no deep
fat fryers. Our appliance of choice is an inex-
pensive mini-blender!
The obesity epidemic is affecting virtually all
ages and cultures. Of rising concern is the
increasing incidence of child obesity.
"Isagenix can change directions and take your
body back," says Moore. Whether you are trying
to reach a healthy weight, regain lost energy,
cleanse your body of harmful impurities, bring
balance to your diet, or all the above, Isagenix
is the right program. Call today for a FREE
Nutritional Consultation 925-570-5187.
JUST HAIR CLINIC
Seeing is believing with an undetectable,
non-surgical hair replacement product for men
and women.
Mike and Marc Epstein, owners of Just Hair
Clinic are not only the backbone of this inter-
esting company, but also clients. Just Hair
Clinic began in 1975, now in its second gen-
eration and the East Bay’s leading hair
restoration company.
“By looking better you feel better,” both
brothers will tell you, offering a private, no-
cost consultation where they can show you
what they do, both in before and after photo-
graphs, but also using themselves as living
samples of their work.
Continued on next page
Page 16 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

Tim’s Home Improvement Getting Out for the

Let us help you design your new
Kitchen & bath
Redwood decks & gazebos
COMMUNITY EVENTS Holidays
Room additions Holiday Faire and Teas Downtown Holiday Open House
10 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 14. Crafts and hol- 4:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 6. Free event by downtown

rd
Tile setting & more
R
iday items for sale. High tea at 11:30 a.m. and merchants in conjunction with the 7 p.m. tree-light-

da
ai 1:30 p.m. daily. $28 for tea. Sponsored by the ing ceremony in Todos Santos Plaza. Businesses will

n
si Walnut Creek Historical Society. Shadelands Ranch be decorated for the holidays and offer festive

ta
(925) 672-9471
ard
Tim W.#6 ng Museum, 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut drinks and/or appetizers. Nominal fee for horse and

S
36746
Contractor’s Lic
(925) 324-7408 cell the Creek. 935-7871. buggy rides. Contact Kathy at 685-3067.

Craft Boutique Tree Lighting and Sing-Along

Bird grooming – 1-7 p.m. Dec. 3. Boutique, plus secret shopper 5-7 p.m. Dec. 6. School choirs and community
for kids to buy reasonable gifts. New vendors and entertainment, plus tree lighting and holiday sing-
first Saturday each month.
special guest authors. Mt. Diablo Elementary along. Todos Santos Plaza. 671-3464.
Appointments or School, 5880 Mt. Zion Dr., Clayton. Call Cheryl at
walk-ins welcome 673-7279. Chanukah Book Fair
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 7-8. Gift books for the holi-
Gift and Craft Fair days, plus author Lisa Goldstein of “Red Magician”
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 5-6. Handcrafted items and on Sunday. Temple Isaiah Library, 3800 Mt. Diablo
delicious homemade goodies. Sponsored by the Blvd., Lafayette.
Concord Senior Citizens Club. Concord Senior
Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. 671-3320. Crisis Nursery Gift Wrap
Craft Fair Volunteers
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 6. Unique gifts, handmade 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 7-22. The Bay Area Crisis
crafts and holiday decorations. Santa will be avail- Nursery is looking for volunteers to wrap presents in
Quality cages for any bird able for photos. Ayers Elementary School, 5120 Concord. Two-hour shifts available. New toy dona-
Myrtle Dr., Concord. Call Lisa at 673-9348. tions needed as well. 685-6633 or email bacn-
at low, low prices vol@yahoo.com.
Breakfast with Santa
8:30-10 a.m. Dec. 6. Crafts to make with your Holiday Spectacular
children, plus a gift boutique and craft fair. Bring 6:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 12. Performance by the
your camera. Concord Senior Center, 2727 Diablo Valley Chorus and holiday sing-along.
Parkside Circle. www.ConcordReg.org or Includes treats and hot chocolate. $5 for ages 7-
671-3320. plus. Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle.
Canaries Lorikeets Amazons 671-3320 or www.ConcordReg.org.
Exotic Macaws Conures
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“There is no pressure,” Marc says. “This is a
comfortable setting. Seeing is believing.”
In the past this service was largely used by
men, however, recent advances in the technol-
ogy of hair replacement has drawn an equal
number of women interested in replacing min-
imum to moderate hair loss.
“Everyone is individual,” Mike says. “We
have something that will suit your lifestyle and
offer minimum to no maintenance.”
The brothers also work with children with
medical needs, including hair loss from cancer
radiation treatments, alopecia areata, and tri-
chotillomania. They also work with local hospi-
Holiday Guide
tals.
For a free consultation contact Mike or Marc
at (925) 827-4744
2425 East St., Ste 19, Concord or visit them
online at www.justhairclinic.com
MARIO NAVEA GENERAL
BUILDING CONTRACTOR
Autumn brings a much closer inspection of
our living quarters than those bright summer
months when we were busy with outdoor activ-
ities.
Starting to notice all those tiny imperfec-
tions? Call Mario Navea, General Building
Contractor, for all your home improvement
needs.
Navea is available for nearly any project his
clients can dream up, from general repairs
and handyman services to building a brand-
new house if the old one just won't suit.
Navea has experience with even the most
unusual projects; however, his typical tasks
include termite reports and the subsequent
repair work, electrical and plumbing, and
installing doors and windows.
He can also spruce up your home's land-
scaping by building retaining walls, retro-
fitting, and replacing foundations, or building
a beautiful new patio or deck on which to
enjoy the sights and smells of the fall.
Mario Navea works all over the Bay Area.
Call (925) 673-5260 or email Mario@marion-
avea.com today.
Lic. #: 672628
NEW DIMENSIONS
SERVICE SOLUTIONS
New Dimensions Service Solutions is the Bay
Area’s premier laptop vendor, providing “Total
Laptop Care.” New Dimensions will help you
eliminate the frustration associated with the
selection and configuration of your new laptop
by providing 35 years of professional consulting
and service experience in the computing field.
New Dimensions repair technicians are sea-
Continued on next page
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 17

Santa’s Grand Arrival
Noon-2 p.m. Dec. 13. Santa comes to downtown
Concord to listen to all the kids’ holiday wishes.
Downtown merchants will display their wares, plus a
special farmers market. Todos Santos Plaza.
ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT
Willows Cabaret
“The Nunsense Christmas Musical”
Through Dec. 21. The Little Sisters of Hoboken
take on Tchaikovsky and hilarity ensues. 636 Ward
St., Martinez. $20-$30.
798-1300 or www.willowstheatre.org.
Walnut Creek Concert Band
7:30 p.m. Dec. 2. Holiday Concert. Lesher
Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek.
943-SHOW or www.lesherartscenter.org.
Center Rep
“Dickens’ A Christmas Carol”
Dec. 11-21. A holiday favorite, brimming with
music and dance, spectacular special effects, scary
ghosts and old-fashioned storytelling. Lesher
Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-
SHOW or www.lesherartscenter.
Contra Costa Christian Theatre
“It’s a Wonderful Life”
Dec. 12-21. The heartwarming production is
based closely on Frank Capra’s movie classic and is
perfect for family audiences. Del Valle Theatre at
1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $15-22.
www.dlrca.org or 943-SHOW.
Galatean Players Ensemble
“Whiskers”
Dec. 13-20. The popular children’s musical
based on “The Velveteen Rabbit.” Lesher Center for
the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $8-$15.
943-SHOW or
http://galateanplayersensemble.homestead.com/
whiskers.htm.
Free Concert of Holiday Music
7:30 p.m., Dec. 15. Maestro Duane Carroll
will lead the Contra Costa Wind Symphony in
“Winterfest,” a free concert of holiday music,
including traditional carols and an audience
sing-along. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m.
in the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49
Knox Drive, Lafayette.
Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble
“The Biggest Gift”
Dec. 19-21. Join the fun and laughter as Tucker
the elf sets out to save Christmas. Lesher Center,
1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW or
www.lesherartscenter.org.
Ballet Joyeux
“Once Upon a Christmas”
Dec. 23-24. A colorfully narrated ballet that fol-
lows a young girl as she learns confidence from an
elf named Rojo. Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr.,
Walnut Creek. www.lesherartscenter.org or 943-
SHOW.

Diablo Ballet
“The Nutcracker”
Dec. 3-6. In conjunction with Civic Arts
Education, Diablo Ballet tells the heartwarming story
of Clara and her special Christmas present, a
wooden nutcracker soldier. Del Valle Theatre, 1963
Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $10-26. 943-
SHOW or wwwlesherartscenter.org.

Contra Costa Ballet

“Story of the Nutcracker”
Dec. 4-6. A colorfully narrated, hour-long pro-
duction for the entire family. Lesher Center, 1601
Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW or
www.lesherartscenter.org.

“A John Denver Holiday Concert”

Dec. 4-14. Perfect for the entire family, this con-
cert by Dan Wheetman features modern and tradi-
tional Christmas carols as well as some of Denver’s
memorable hits. Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr.,
Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW or www.lesherartscen-
ter.org.

Tapestry Holiday Concerts

The voices of Heartsong and the handbells of
Canto Bello join together once again as Tapestry.
7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, “Songs of the Season,” Clayton
Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road,
Concord. 2:30 p.m. Dec. 7, “Prepare My Heart,”
Walnut Creek United Methodist Church, 1543
Sunnyvale Ave. 7 p.m. Dec. 13, “Christmas by
Candlelight: An Elizabethan Yuletide,” St. John's Cuts and color
Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton.
The first two concerts are free, with donations Updo’s for holiday parties, proms & balls
accepted for Clayton Valley High School’s music
program. Tickets are $20 for Dec. 13, which
Hair extensions
includes sherry and dessert. Call Julie at 516-2920. Permanent Makeup hours
Flock of Flutes Holiday Concert Facial Waxing M-F 10-7
5 p.m. Dec. 7. The Bay Area's only flute choir will 798-6161 Sat 9-5
perform a classic concert. Civic Arts Education's 4701 Clayton Road, Beauty Supplies
Shadelands Campus, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Sun 10-3
Creek. $10-$12. 943-5846. Suite A, Concord
Corner of Clayton & Bailey Roads

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Holiday Guide
With two locations to serve you, please call New
Dimensions Service Solutions today at (925)
356-7984 or visit www.ndssolutions.com.
NEW YORK LIFE/
BETTY LOU MOGLEN
Betty Lou Moglen has been elected a mem-
ber of the 2008 Chairman’s Council of New
York Life Insurance Company. Members of the
elite Chairman’s Cabinet rank in the top three
percent of New York Life’s elite sales force of
approximately 11,000 licensed agents.
As a Chairman’s Council member, Betty Lou
was invited to attend the Chairman’s Council
meeting in Madrid, Spain. Ms. Moglen has
been a New York Life agent since 1983, and is
associated with New York Life’s East Bay
General Office in Pleasanton, CA.
New York Life Insurance Company, a
Fortune 100 company founded in 1845, is the
largest mutual life insurance company in the
United States and one of the largest life insur-
ers in the world. New York Life has the high-
est possible financial strength ratings from all
four of the major credit rating agencies. Please
visit New York Life’s Web site at www.newyork-
life.com for more information.
NICHOLS LANDSCAPE
It is a little-known fact that the California
autumn is the perfect time to completely renew
your home’s landscaping. The cool weather of
the fall, winter, and spring allows cool season
grasses, trees, and plants time to establish
before the blistering heat of the summer reeks
its havoc.
To redesign your yard, call Concord native
Boyce Nichols of Nichols Landscape. Nichols
has been serving Concord for over twenty
years, first learning the business from his older
brother, then striking out on his own.
“We specialize in any kind of installation,
including sod installation and plantings,” says
Nichols. “We can install pavers, concrete, patios,
arbors, decks, sprinkler systems, low-voltage
lighting, or retaining walls. We can also do awe-
Continued on next page
Page 18 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

Send a custom bouquet

of scrumptious
Make room for new holiday gadgets –
cookies to someone
sweet today Recycle your old electronics
lectronic Waste Management is to as e-waste, is a major environmental puters and other electronics. Many of

E sponsoring free electronic waste

recycling events in the area.
Electronic waste, commonly referred
issue in California. Each year, residents
dispose of more than 500,000 tons of
e-waste such as TVs, monitors, com-
these items contain hazardous materi-
als like lead, cadmium, barium and
mercury that are harmful to humans,
pets and the environment.
Because of the toxins found in many
re electronic devices, California has made
No mo ! Our trainers
c u s e s it illegal to throw away unwanted elec-
Order today: ex travel with
equipment and tronic equipment. However, any
you!
(925) 524-9901,
to training is done California business, school, govern-
he gym
5433 Clayton Rd.,
i n g t in your home
ment agency or resident can bring an
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®
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in the Clayton (Optional sessions available
Station in our private gym.) unlimited amount of e-waste to the dis-
posal events.
50% off
www.cookiesbydesign.com  Pilates – Pilates Reformer
 Kickboxing/Muay-Thai Accepted items include TVs, com-
$5 off purchases your initial  Cross/Endurance Training Ilima Heuerman puters, monitors, power supplies,
$25 or more training sessions  Plyometrics/Resistance (925) 890-6931 microwaves and much more. Various
(Limited time offer)  Aerobic Bar Training travelingtrainersllc@gmail.com
Cookies by Design. One coupon per customer.
 Isometric Training components used in electronic equip-
Excludes delivery. Expires 12/23/08. Promo code: TY04-3 Clayton Resident
ment, such as glass, metal and plastic,
can be recycled into other – helping
Total Kitchen & Bath remodel save our natural resources.
Complete moulding installation Residents can drop off items 9
Complete interior painting a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at
Drywall repair & texturing overflow parking lot 7 at Diablo Valley
College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant
Michael Reilly - Clayton resident Hill. This is a monthly event on the
first Saturday.
Painting & Construction 925-672-1777 From 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday,
Dec. 20, the disposal site will be park-
License #572337 B, C-33

400
ing lot 2A at Los Medanos College,

$ OFF
2700 E. Leland Road, Pittsburg. This
complete event is held the third Saturday of the
ny
ric ing on ag project month.
ar P tin
Regulnterior painough March For more information,
i ry thr Present coupon after estimate.
Janua Expires March 31, 2009
call 866-335-3373 or visit
www.NoEwaste.com.
Nu Image

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some stuff like waterfalls and bridges.”
For a free estimate or to reserve Nichols and
his team, call (925) 672-9955, email
Nicholslandscape@msn.com, or visit nichols-
landscape.com. A complete photo gallery is
available to peruse online.
NU IMAGE PAINTING
Nu Image Painting and Construction of Clayton
offers the highest in work quality backed by twen-
ty-two years of experience and references that will
totally impress you that you won’t have to ask for.
“I have a crew that specializes in high end
kitchen and bath remodeling, as well as high
end finish work,” says owner, Michael Reilly. “We
cater to people with very high standards and
expectations because that is the way I am. I
have high expectations.”
Nu Image offers a complete turnkey opera-
tion. “Since I can do all my design work, and
installs, it cuts out any delays,” Reilly says. “This
reduces the overall cost of the job and also
shortens project completion time which means
greater savings to you.”
Nu Image Painting and Construction serves
Walnut Creek, Clayton, San Ramon, Alamo,
Danville, Pleasanton, Orinda, and Lafayette.
Contact Nu Image Painting and Construction
at (925) 672-1777
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF
PLEASANT HILL
We know a positive experience can set the
tone for your child’s future dental health. That is
why Pediatric Dentistry has been designed to be
“kid friendly.”
The latest in dental technology is combined
with genuine compassion and concern.
Their pediatric dentists and staff are specially
trained to treat children… toddlers through teens
and are happy to welcome new patients.
Pediatric Dentistry is located at 2710 Pleasant
Hill Road in Pleasant Hill. Make an appointment
by calling (925) 947-1188.
PERFECT TAN
Perfect Tan opens its new Clayton location this
fall with a myriad of special treats to entice cus-
tomers to their doors. The location offers UV,
airbrush, and UV-Free MyMyst tanning solutions,
with UV beds that range from 12 to 20 minutes
and five levels of tanning lotions for the best
possible color – perfect for maintaining summer
glow or preparing for that winter cruise. Tanning
prices begin at $25.
However, tanning isn't everything at this salon.
They also offer weight loss wraps - cloths dipped
in liquid minerals that detoxify and grab impuri-
ties from fat cells to help lose weight. A package
A Perfect Tan, set to open this fall, is located
in Clayton Station next to Walgreens and will be
open seven days a week. Visit their company
website at www.perfecttanca.com or their new
Clayton site at www.aperfecttansalon.com.
RODIE’S FEED AND
COUNTRY STORE
Take a break from the malls and crowds this
year with a short, pleasant drive out to Rodie’s
Feed and Country Store on Marsh Creek Road
in Clayton for some truly unique gift ideas.
Topping the out-of-the-ordinary gift list are the
exotic birds happily greeting customers and staff
in one of the area’s favorite stores. Colorful
macaws, cockatoos, parrotlets and canaries are
just a few of the exotic birds at Rodie’s. With a
staff of seven avian specialists certified by Pet
Industry Joint Advisory Council, Rodie’s is the
premier bird shop in Northern California.
And while Rodie’s is definitely “for the birds,”
owners Bob and Sarah Rodenburg have not for-
gotten Fido or Fluffy. With a complete selection
of Merrick dog and cat food, cozy beds, snug
dog houses, toys, collars and grooming acces-
sories, you will find everything you need right at
Rodie’s.
And while you are shopping for the pets in
your life, browse Robin’s Nest Country Gifts
inside Rodie’s. Owned by Robin Thomas, Bob
Rodenburg’s daughter, Robin’s Nest carries
scores of unique gift items. Be sure to see her
large selection of lovely Willow Tree figurines,
including the newest 2008 releases.
Rodie’s is located at 8863 Marsh Creek Road,
just past the eastern limits of Clayton. Phone
(925) 672-4600. Take a ride out there. It’s well
worth the drive.
SERENDIPITY OFFERS
HOLIDAY LUNCHEONS
Serendipity Restaurant & Bakery is one of
Concord’s best-kept secrets. The student-run
restaurant is open to the public for lunch 11:45
a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and
Thursdays.
The restaurant serves appetizers, freshly made
soups, salads, sandwiches, full entrees such as
poached salmon and tri-tip medallions and a
variety of desserts. The average price for a meal
is $7.50-$10, including beverage. The restau-
rant is at 2611 East St., across from the John
Muir Hospital Concord Campus.
Serendipity is offering a holiday luncheon on
Tuesday, Dec. 16, and Wednesday, Dec. 17. The
$25 lunch is a two-course meal with a dessert
buffet. Reservations are recommended. Call
Jennifer at 798-0882.
Serendipity Restaurant & Bakery is part of the
Regional Occupation Program and the
International Hospitality and Tourism Academy.
Continued on next page
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 19

Donate used coats at

Cookies by Design Simplify Gift Giving
Cookies by Design in the Clayton
Station is collecting clean, reusable
coats for the One Warm Coat project.
Through Dec. 31, a collection box
The project started in 1992 as a
Thanksgiving weekend coat drive in
San Francisco. Last year, more than
2,000 coat drives were held across the
VISA ®

will be in the store at 5433 Clayton

Road, Suite A. Each person donating a
coat will receive a free cookie; limit
one per customer.
One Warm Coat aims to provide
any person in need with a warm coat,
free of charge. Offering this simple yet
vital need helps people live productive
lives year-round.
country throughout the year.
It’s a three-part effort – from those
who clean their closet to donate coats
to those who organize a coat drive in
their community and the volunteers
and staff at social service agencies
who distribute the coats.
For more information, visit
www.onewarmcoat.org.
gift card
Stop by any TCU branch to do
your holiday shopping for family
and friends. VISA gift cards,
available from $10 to $500, are
perfect for convenient delivery to
loved ones inside a greeting card.
And, your gift can be used anywhere
the VISA logo is displayed.*

Safer than cash. If lost, replace unused amount.

Use it online. Use until the balance reaches zero.

TWO BRANCHES IN CONCORD

1257 Willow Pass Road
Clayton Valley Shopping Center
5442 Ygnacio Valley Road,
Suite 10
Mon–Fri 10am–5:30pm
Saturday 10am–2pm
Where You Belong
www.traviscu.org (800) 877-8328
NCUA–Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government. National Credit
Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency. *Restaurant transaction authorizations include an additional 20% to allow for tips. Not redeemable at
ATMs, hotels, or for pay-at-the pump gas, car rentals or cash advances. The purchase fee per gift card is $3.50. A fee of $10, subtracted from the card
FREE INSPECTION balance, applies to reissue a lost card at a TCU branch. After six months, a monthly maintenance fee of $3 is subtracted from the available balance.
Everyone who lives, works, worships or goes to school in Contra Costa County is eligible to join. Certain membership requirements may apply.
Includes a free safety inspection to uncover any internal damage.

Advertisers in the
STRAIGHT LINE IMPORTS
Thinking about new granite counter tops?
There is no better way to enhance the beauty of
your kitchen or bathroom vanity than by adding
new custom fabricated granite or marble count-
er tops. Granite is virtually stain free and
requires very little maintenance.
Straight Line Imports is a custom fabricator
and one of the larger fabrication and installa-
tion companies in the East Bay offering free in
home estimating and free design ideas. They
stock a variety of faucets, fixtures and sinks at
below wholesale prices.
Straight Line is a licensed, bonded and
insured general contractor specializing in com-
plete kitchen design and renovations.
“If you are thinking about remodeling or just
replacing you counter tops you owe it to yourself
to call us. We are a locally owned and operated
company. We wish you the best for a healthy
and happy holiday season,” says owner Rick
Fox.
Straight Line Imports is located at 3795
Pacheco Blvd. in Martinez.
Tel: (925) 335-9801
SWEEPMOBILE
Have you had your chimney cleaned out
recently? Better clean it out before Santa arrives.
Holiday Guide
SweepMobile recommends a yearly cleaning
of your chimney, as well as your dryer vent.
Having a regular maintenance cleaning not only
reduces the dangers of fire, as well as carbon
monoxide poisoning, but in the case of your
dryer, actually improves the effectiveness of the
dryer thereby reducing your utility bill. Take
advantage of Sweepmobile’s free safety inspec-
tion to uncover hidden internal damages to your
chimney. Their $99 chimney sweep includes a
free inspection for pre-fabricated and masonry
chimneys only. A variety of new spark
arrestors/chimney caps are also available.
SweepMobile is dedicated to providing profes-
sional and reliable chimney and dryer vent
cleaning services. For additional information, call
Jack at SweepMobile (925) 363-9479
TIM'S HOME IMPROVEMENT
Tim's Home Improvements focuses on all phas-
es of remodeling and construction. With 30 years
of experience and quality craftsmanship, many
families now enjoy their beautifully remodeled
kitchens, bathrooms and spacious room addi-
tions. Tim and his crew also enjoy working out-
doors. Over the years, they have built many
decks, trellis', gazebos, and patio covers for home
owners to enjoy both indoor and outdoor living
and entertainment. Add character to your home
by adding crown molding, baseboard, tile work,
painting, entertainment centers or energy saving
windows and doors to enhance the look of your
home. Now is an excellent time to call us for a
free estimate. Office (925) 672-9471 or Cell
(925) 324-7408. Ask for Tim.
TRAVELING TRAINERS
Nothing beats stress like a great physical
workout. But with the holidays coming and the
bad weather approaching, the trips to the gym
are usually the first casualty. “If only I had a gym
in my house,” you wish.
Well, Ilima Heuerman is about to grant that
wish. Traveling Trainers will bring the gym to
you. Yes, that means house calls. Now, there are
“no more excuses.”
With one-on-one instruction and workout in a
custom program designed for you, Ilima will
have you at your tip-top self in no time.
Or, how about a Traveling Trainers gift certifi-
cate for that really special someone in your life?
So, turn away from the computer, get up from
the desk and call Traveling Trainers to bring
your personal trainer right to your house.
Call today. (925) 890-6931.
TRAVIS CREDIT UNION
In these uncertain times, many financial
experts are suggesting consumers open accounts
at credit unions. Travis Credit Union puts their
members first, doesn’t take excessive risks and is
well capitalized to weather tough times.
If you’re concerned about the ownership
changes within the banking industry, become a
member-owner at Travis Credit Union. TCU is
one of the largest credit unions in California
and they have been financially safe and sound
since 1951.
At TCU your savings are federally insured to
at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith
and credit of the United States Government
through NCUA, a U.S. Government Agency.
TCU has money to lend for homes, vehicles
and more. Stop worrying and take action,
Become a member-owner of Travis Credit Union
today! Everyone who lives, works, worships or
attends school in Contra Costa County is eligi-
ble to join. Certain requirements may apply.
Call (800) 877-8328 or visit www.traviscu.org
TODAY HAULING
Today Hauling and Unique Gardening of
Concord is available for hauling of your com-
plete household, garbage, and yard debris
needs. Replacing the refrigerator? Call Today
Hauling! Cutting down that dead tree? Call
Today Hauling! Need to ditch all that old junk in
the garage so there is room for the car? Call
Today Hauling!
But Today Hauling is also available for all
your gardening needs. They install low-voltage
Continued on next page
Page 20 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS

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For a “manicured” yard, you need
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Free Estimates todayhauling@yahoo.com

By Colleen Elwy and see all the Christmas lights and

The Concordian decorations.
Christmas Eve some of the rela-
Juanita Beard, 77
Shop Concord
tives were there and Santa
When I was a child we would Claus came that night.
drive to my grandmother’s My grandmother
during the house every Christmas. The always had a
drive would take us 8-10 houseful on
Holiday Season hours on a two-lane road.
We would be full of excite-
Christmas day for
dinner and she
ment packing the car with always invited
Gift Shops
gifts, snacks and blankets the preacher and
Home to keep us warm as the car his family.
Improvement did not have a heater or I went with my
Jewelry radio. My parents would talk parents to my
Apparel Pets and laugh during the whole trip. grandmother’s house
Automotive Professional I loved to look out of the window for Christmas every year
Electronics Services until I was married. It is a wonder-
Entertainment Restaurants ful time of the year, but I haven’t
Ground up new construction
Mario Navea, General Contractor felt the same excitement as I did as
Floral Sports
New additions and remodeling
a child going to my grandmother’s.
Food Painting interior – exterior
Furniture Patios, decks, fences, arbors, gates Bob Hill, 85
Retaining walls, foundations Holidays were never too impor-
Buy Concord Landscaping and hauling services
Windows and Doors
tant to me in my working because I
worked for the railroad in train
Electrical, Plumbing
your dollar matters! service and we worked every holi-
day. I remember one Thanksgiving
Did you know that when you spend your hard-earned dollars growing up on a
in Concord, a portion of the sales tax comes back to the com- farm in
munity to maintain and improve your City? Nebraska
when I was
With so many fantastic choices in Concord, 10 years
you do not need to shop anywhere else. old and
we always
Visit aimed to
www.buyconcord.net finish
License #672628

shucking
to download coupons from participating Concord businesses.
Quality work and corn on
affordable prices Thanksgiving.
673-5260

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mood lighting to accent those beautiful trees
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For all your hauling and gardening needs,
call (925) 497-4907 or email
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Holiday Guide
UNA MAS MEXICAN GRILL ® Serving food that includes burritos, tacos
Good news for those who have been savor-
ing a Mexican meal. Walk by Una Mas at
2068 Salvio Street, Concord CA 94520.
(925) 798 6262, in the Todos Santos Plaza,
and will notice the signs “Always Unique
Always Fresh Always Good” posted.
Una Mas Mexican Grill blends the tradition-
al flavors of Mexican cuisine with a fresh and
modern attitude! This unique flavor profile is
what has kept customers coming back for
more than 15 years and garnered numerous
awards. Our catering menu includes items
such as Outrageous Four Foot Burritos, Taco
Party or Burrito Bar where customers can
make their own tacos and burritos.
and Salads, Una Mas prides itself on serving
only fresh ingredients to its customers. And
Una Mas uses all natural fresh poultry; Angus
certified all natural beef only.
YOGA SOL
Yoga Sol of Concord has a new location in
the Clayton Valley Shopping Center! The new
space includes a retail store where patrons
can purchase their yoga supplies before and
after class. This month, save $10 off any pur-
chase of $50 or more.
Yoga Sol offers classes in Hot Yoga, Pilates,
Vinyasa Flow, Meditation, Kripalu, and more
from 8 different instructors. “All of the classes
are beginner-friendly,” says owner Tara Clay.
“We really cater to the individual. It doesn’t
matter how many years someone has studied
yoga. We make pose modifications. We try to
make people feel as though they had a pri-
vate class as opposed to a group class.”
Come experience the physical benefits of
yoga, including relief of back pain, stress,
and sleep disorders, while losing weight and
gaining strength and flexibility. Visit
yogasol.net or call (925) 288-9642 for more
information. Local residents get their first class
free!
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 21

recollections of a lifetime
This particular year my dad had wheels. Mr. Brown was known for infantry and had fought all across could begin to get on with our
the flu, so six or seven neighbors doing good deeds throughout the Europe from “D Day” plus 6, lives as a family. Of course, that
came over with their teams and county and I will never forget his through the Battle of the Bulge, was the most important holiday of
wagons and finished shucking our kindness. until the surrender of the German my life.
corn. My mother and some neigh- Army.
bor ladies made a big Sylvia Berek Rosenthal, 85 Now he was home again, a civil- You may send comments to Colleen Elwy
Thanksgiving dinner for the men When I think ian with all his parts intact and we at 672-9565 or at colleensbyline@aol.com.
when they finished. I enjoyed see- of the holi-
ing all the different teams of hors- days, the
es and mules that were at our most Serving Co
farm.
Jenny Baldwin, 90
important
holiday of
my life
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ten a scooter discharged from the army that
because they had afternoon and had found his way
wheels and I didn’t. I made a fuss home before midnight that same
and cried. My dad talked with the day. He crawled in through the
Mr. Brown who owned the hard- window and what a welcome sur-
ware store and he opened up on prise!
Christmas so I too could have George had been a private in the

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Page 22 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

g
Please let our advertisers
know you saw them in
the Concordian etting day dinner at 7 p.m. Dec. 17 in Walnut Creek. The

out
club serves Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Concord,
Clayton and Martinez. 946-0469 or
www.dvdems.org.

Hatley DIABLO VALLEY MACINTOSH USERS GROUP meets at

6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. Free
question and answer help for Mac, followed by pro-
Construction Co. grams, guest speakers, demonstrations and fun.
Bancroft Elementary School, 2700 Parish Dr.,
Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters. Lesher
Local resident with 39 years experience.
ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek.
Walnut Creek. Call Tom at 689-1155 or
Handyman Services www.dvmug.org.
$50-$300. 943-SHOW or www.arf.net.
Willows Theatre DIABLO VALLEY WINGS, Chapter P of the Gold Wing
All Phases of Construction: “Mame” Touring Association, meets the second Tuesday of
electrical, plumbing, roofs, tile, Through Dec. 28. “Auntie” Mame sang, danced CLUBS the month. 6 p.m. social hour, with dinner at 7 p.m.
trim, drywall. and laughed in the face of the Great Depression. Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. 686-
Perfect fare for today’s theater-goers. 1975 AMERICAN LEGION POST 171 meets the third 3774 or www.GWTA-CA-DVW.org.
Senior Citizens Special Needs: Diamond Blvd., Concord. $30-40. www.willowsthe- Tuesday of the month. 5 p.m. social, 7 p.m. meet- EAST BAY CASUAL HIKING GROUP meets at 10 a.m.
grab bars, hand rails and ramps. atre.org or 798-1300. ing. Concord Veterans Memorial Hall, 2290 Willow Dec. 14, Nimitz Way Trail-Inspiration Point. This is a
Remodels, Fencing, Decks and more. Pass Road. paved trail that is dog-friendly. Rain or shine.
Diablo Valley College Contact John at 272-4321 or
CIRCLE OF FRIENDS meets the second Monday of
Small jobs welcome “Jesus Hopped the A Train” the month, Walnut Country Club, 4498 Lawson Ct., http://Hiking.Bondon.com.
All work 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed Dec. 4-15. This play uses the textual elements of Concord. This women’s group builds relationships EAST BAY PANTHERS BASKETBALL CLUB offers clinics
shows like “Law and Order” and “Oz,” while and ties through educational presentations and Dec. 7, 21 and Jan. 11, 25 for girls in third
exploring the complexities of criminals and the
Senior & social events. At 6 p.m. Dec 8., learn about what through eighth grade. $10. Seven Hills School, 975
680-8554 Active Military crimes they commit. Adult supervision suggested for the Magnolia Branch of Children’s Hospital will be N. San Carlos Dr., Walnut Creek. www.eastbaypan-
General contractor those under 17. Arena Theater, 321 Golf Club doing in 2009. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or thers.org or ebpdirector@gmail.com.
Discounts Road, Pleasant Hill. $8-15. 687-4445.
License #573170 lori@lorihagge.com.
available ELLEN’S GUILD meets 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. the
Dance Party CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB meets at 9:30 second Tuesday of the month in various locations.
8 p.m. Dec. 6. With Steve Lucky and the Rhumba a.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, The non-profit supports the Family Stress Center,
Buns. Pleasant Hill Community Center, 320 Civic Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, helping to make a difference in the lives of under-
Dr. $18-$30. 707-869-9403 or www.community- Concord. Call Joyce at 672-3850. privileged children. Contact Karen at 820-2371 or
Space available concerts.com. CLUTCH BUSTERS SQUARE DANCE CLUB meets 7:30- karend@pacbell.net or Jennifer at 827-0212,
ext.107 or Jennifer.stasch@familystresscenter.org.
in Musica Sacra
10 p.m. Thursdays, Mt. Diablo Woman’s Club,
1700 Farm Bureau Road, Concord. www.familystresscenter.org.
Rutter’s “Magnificat” KIWANIS CLUB OF GREAT CONCORD meets at noon
Village Oaks 3 p.m. Dec. 13-14. Plus works by Britten,
CONCORD ART ASSOCIATION meets 12:50-3 p.m.
the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings include Wednesdays, The Old Spaghetti Factory, 1955 Mt.
Howells and Walton. Dec 13 at St. Francis of Assisi Diablo St., Concord. Contact Sandra at
Center Church, 860 Oak Grove Road., Concord. Dec 14
an educational program by an invited artist with
demonstrations of various art forms. Concord 372-5348.
at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1101 Keaveny Ct., Library, 2900 Salvio St. 646-5455. KNITTING GROUP meets 2-4 p.m. the first Sunday
Prime Clayton location Walnut Creek. 944-5239 or www.vmschorus.org.
CONCORD DIABLO ROTARY meets at 12:15 p.m. of the month, Concord Library, 2900 Salvio St. Free
Wednesdays, Marie Calendars, 2090 Diamond instruction and practice yarn provided; bring your
DOWNSTAIRS Willows Cabaret own needles. 646-5455.
Blvd., Concord. For details, email Kathy at
 1,134 sq. ft. “Evil Dead: The Musical” greg_grassi@mechbank.com. ODD FELLOWS meet at 3 p.m. the second and
 1,047 sq. ft. Jan. 9-Feb.7. This campy take on “slasher” hor- fourth Tuesdays of the month, Pacheco Lodge 117,
ror films features seating in “the Splatter Zone.” No CONCORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The Historical
4349 Cowell Road, Concord. Call Herb at 682-
 Retail preferred one under 13 admitted without a parent. 636 Ward Society Resource Center is open 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays
7358.
St., Martinez. $20-$30. 798-1300 or and by appointment. Walking tours are available
www.willowstheatre.org. for groups of five to 15 by appointment. 1601 REBEKAH’S LODGE meet at 8 p.m. the first and third
6200 Center St. Sutter St., Suite E, F. 827-3380 or Thursdays of the month, Mt. Diablo Lodge 228,
Clayton www.conhistsoc.org. 4349 Cowell Road, Concord. Call Carmen at 672-
Clayton Books
5045.
Coates & Sowards All events at 5433 D Clayton Road, Clayton, CONCORD LIONS CLUB meets at 7 p.m. the third
unless otherwise noted. 673-3325 or visit www.clay- Tuesday of the month, La Tapatia Mexican ROTARY CLUB OF CLAYTON VALLEY/CONCORD SUNRISE
Call 408-371-8770, ext. 19 tonbookshop.com. Restaurant, 1802 Willow Pass Road, Concord. meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club,
7 p.m. Dec. 5. Romance Book Club discusses Contact Liz at 687-3594. 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton Meeting includes
“Have Yourself a Naughty Little Santa.” CONCORD MYSTERY BOOK CLUB meets at 2:30 p.m. breakfast and features a speaker. Contact Chuck at
3-5 p.m. Dec. 7. Brian Murphy of KNBR, author the second Sunday of the month, Concord Library, 689-7640 or
of “The San Francisco Giants 50th Anniversary 2900 Salvio St. 646-5455. www. claytonvalleyrotary.org.
Book.” RUSTY BINDINGS SKI AND SNOWBOARD CLUB: Dec. 2
7 p.m. Dec. 8. J.A. Jance, author of “Cruel CONCORD ROTARY meets 12:15 p.m. Fridays,
Concord Hilton, 1970 Diamond Blvd. Contact Jerry party with music, games, prizes and information
Intent.” about the upcoming ski and race season. All single
3 p.m. Dec. 9. History Book Club discusses at 675-1042.
skiers over 21 are invited. Contact Karl at 510-
“Towers of Gold.” CONCORD SENIOR CLUB holds ballroom dancing, 632-7414 or kjsmythe@comcast.net.
7 p.m. Dec. 9. Frances Dinkelspiel, author of 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesdays
“Towers of Gold: How One Jewish Immigrant and 8-11 p.m. the second Saturday of the month. SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL DIABLO VISTA meets the
Named Isaias Hellman Created California.” Sponsored by the Concord Senior Club. 2727 second, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month
7 p.m. Dec. 10. The Book Club’s annual favorite Parkside Circle, Concord. 798-4557. at the Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord.
book exchange. Call Gloria at 890-8255.
7 p.m. Dec. 17. Mystery Book Club discusses CONTRA COSTA BLUE STAR MOMS CHAPTER 20 mem-
bers have sons and daughters in uniform. Visit TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL has numerous meet-
“Desert Heat.” ing locations, dates and times in the Concord area.
ccbluestarmoms.org.
www.toastmasters.org.
Social and support meeting, 6:30 p.m. the sec-
FUND-RAISERS ond Monday of the month. Contact Becky at 286- Toastmasters on Monday, Aegis of Concord,
1728 or bwilliams@ccbluestarmoms.org. 4756 Clayton Road. Contact Carie at 682-7211.
Children’s Hospital Magnolia Toastmasters on Tuesday, 7:15 p.m., John Muir
Business meeting, 6:30 p.m. the fourth Monday
Branch of the month, Community Room, Concord Police Hospital Concord Campus, 2730 Grant St.,
Noon Dec. 6. Local resident Ashley Barrows will Classroom A. Contact Marion at 686-1818.
Senior Housing 55 & up speak about her experience with Children's Hospital
Department, 1350 Galindo St.
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS POST 1525 meets the
Come Home to after her son was diagnosed with brain cancer. CONTRA COSTA GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY meets at 7
third Thursday of the month. 6 p.m. social hour,
Pavilion Restaurant, 1508 Kirker Pass Road, p.m. the second Thursday of the month, Church of
Downtown Concord Clayton. $30. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3700 Concord meeting at 7. Veterans Memorial Hall, 2990 Willow
One bedroom apartments, 650 Sq. Ft. Blvd., Concord. rootsweb.com/.~cacccgs/. Pass Road, Concord.
lori@lorihagge.com.
Mobility impaired apartments available
Electric range and refrigerator CVHS Athletic Boosters
CONTRA COSTA MINERAL & GEM SOCIETY meets the
second Monday of the month at Centre Concord,
SUPPORT GROUPS
Heating and cooling Crab Feed and Auction 5298 Clayton Road. 429-2748 or 779-0698 or AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP meets 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Carpeting and blinds 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Jan. 10, Centre Concord, 5298 http://home.comcast.net/~contracosta Mondays, St. Martins of Tours Anglican Church and
Smoke detectors and sprinklers in every unit Clayton Road. Tickets are $50 and can be pur- mineralandgem/site/. Preschool, 5294 Concord Blvd., Concord. (This is
24 hr emergency call system chased from student team representatives, at the DIABLO NUMISMATIC SOCIETY, a coin-collecting club, while construction is underway at St. Bonaventure’s
Accept Housing Authority Section 8 vouchers school office or at www.cvhsboosters.org. Church, the normal meeting place.) If you are con-
meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month,
And much more Veterans Memorial Hall, 2290 Willow Pass Road, cerned about someone else’s drinking, Al-Anon
Animal Rescue Foundation Concord. Contact Mike at 825-0649 or xsteam- Family Groups can help. For meetings in other
2020 Grant Street Stars to the Rescue erx@aol.com. Concord locations, call 932-6770 or visit
925.685.7887 6:45 p.m. Jan. 10. Includes Graham Russell and
DIABLO VALLEY DEMOCRATIC CLUB will host its holi-
www.ncwsa.org/district.
Russell Hitchcock from Air Supply, Tony Orlando,
December, 2008
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. For local meetings, call
the Walnut Creek Service Center at 939-4155 or
visit www.aa.org.
CARDIAC CARE SUPPORT GROUP Mended Hearts visi-
tors meets 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the
month, John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creek or
Concord campus. Affiliated with the American Heart
Association, the group provides support to patients
and family members dealing with heart disease.
947-5206.
CONTRA COSTA FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP for patients
dealing with leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, lym-
phoma and multiple myeloma meets 7-8:30 p.m.
the first Thursday of every month. Sponsored by the
Leukemia Society. Call Sarah at 947-4466, ext.
32797.
HIV/AIDS SUPPORT GROUP meets 7-9 p.m. the sec-
ond and fourth Thursdays of the month, John Muir
Medical Center, Concord campus. 674-2190.
HOSPICE OF THE EAST BAY, formerly Hospice and
Palliative Care of Contra Costa, offers support
groups and workshops for adults, children and
teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved
one at 3470 Buskirk Ave., Pleasant Hill. 887-5678.
RAINBOW COMMUNITY CENTER (RCC) fosters a sense
of community among gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans-
gender, intersex and questioning (GLBTIQ) persons
and enhances their lives by providing social oppor-
tunities, health and wellness services, political and
educational programs and is guided by a commit-
ment to acceptance and equality. All meetings held
at the RCC Office, 3024 Willow Pass Road, Suite
200, Concord.
Project CONNECT: Free HIV testing (results in less
than 30 minutes)and counseling, 6-8 p.m. the first
and third Fridays of the month.
Youth Peer Support and Social Group: For LGBT
youth ages 13-20. 3-8 p.m. Saturdays.
Queer Talk: LGBT Youth After-School Program, 4-
5:30 p.m. Thursdays.
Men’s HIV Support Group: 6:30-8 p.m.
Mondays.
Women’s Discussion Group: For Lesbians, 6:30-8
p.m. Wednesdays.
Transgender Support Group: 7-9 p.m. the first
Thursday of the month.
Men’s Discussion Group: For gay and bisexual
men, 7-9 p.m. the second and fourth Fridays of the
month.
STROKE SUPPORT GROUP OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
meets 7 p.m. the second Monday of the month, Ball
Auditorium at John Muir Medical Center, 1601
Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Meetings are
free and open to the public. Call Ann at 376-6218.
SCHOOLS
MT. DIABLO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Board of
Education meets 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9 Board Room,
Dent Center, 1936 Carlotta Dr., Concord.
682-8000.
Personal care for your pets
Now offering
acupuncture
Disney
Pet Hospital
Dr. Lawrence Rothe Dr. Ilana Halperin
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 23
GOVERNMENT through education, cultural exchange and commu-
nity outreach. 671-3327.
ments, and reviews planned district developments,
tentative subdivision maps and use permit applica-
tions. 671-3152.
OPENINGS ON CITY BOARDS: Residents can apply PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE COMMISSION
meets the second Wednesday of the month. Most
for openings on the Appeals Board, Design Review
meetings are at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers,
Board and Planning Commission. Applications may
1950 Parkside Dr. 671-3440. All listings are as of date of publication
be obtained at the City Management Offices, 1950
deadline. We encourage you to call or visit
Parkside Dr., or at PLANNING COMMISSION meets the first and third
www.cityofconcord.org/citygov/bc/g-c.htm. Or call
Websites to confirm dates, times, etc.
Wednesdays of the month. Most meetings are held
671-3495. Applications deadline is 5 p.m. Jan. 2. at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 1950
To submit your calendar items, please visit
MAYOR’S OPEN OFFICE: Concord Mayor Bill Shinn Parkside Dr. The commission develops and main-
our website www.myconcordian.com or
holds regular open office hours in his office at the tains the General Plan, develops specific plans as
email calendar@myconcordian.com.
Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. The necessary, makes recommendations to the City
Council regarding proposed General Plan amend-
mayor looks forward to talking to residents about
any issues they wish to address. To make a 20-
minute appointment, call Mary at 671-3158 during
business hours.
CITY COUNCIL meets at 6:30 p.m. the first, second
and fourth Mondays of the month in the City
Council Chambers, 1950 Parkside Dr.. The meet-
ings are televised live on Concord cable TV chan-
nels 28 (Comcast) and 29 (Astound) and on the
city’s Website. A calendar of all city meetings with a
link to meeting agendas is available at www.cityof-
concord.org. Contact City Clerk Mary Rae Lehman
at 671-3495.
COMMISSION ON AGING meets at 1:30 p.m. the
third Wednesday of the month, Concord Senior
Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. The commission
works to identify, improve and develop services and
opportunities for senior citizens in Concord. 671-
3419.
2693 Clayton Road,
COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE meets 6:30 p.m.
the third Tuesday of the month, Concord Senior Concord
Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. The Community
Advisory Committee for the Concord Community www.alpinepastry.com
Reuse Project provides input on planning for the
civilian reuse of the Concord Naval Weapon Station
and continued community outreach efforts. 671-
3019.
925 689 7220
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION meets at 6:30
p.m. the third Wednesday of the month, City
Manager’s Conference Room, Wing A, 1950
Parkside Dr. The commission identifies housing,
neighborhood and social services needs within the
community. 671-3283.
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
meets 9:30 a.m. Dec. 9, 16. County Administration
Building, 651 Pine St., Room 107, Martinez. Your dog or cat can
www.co.contra-costa.ca.us or
335-1900.
feel this good, too.
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD meets at 5:30 p.m. the sec-
Aussie
ond and fourth Thursdays of the month, Center
Conference Room, Wing D, 1950 Parkside Dr. The
Call
board reviews the design for each improvement for
Pet Mobile
which a building permit, certificate or other
approval is required. The board also reviews any
matter referred to the board by the Planning
Commission, zoning administrator or planning
manager, 671-3152. for a full service
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION meets the second
Tuesday of the month. Most meetings are at 7 p.m.
grooming.
in the City Council Chambers, 1950 Parkside Dr.
The commission fosters positive human relations Special Services Include:
 15-step spa treatment
 Pawdicures
 Special Therapeutic
Shampoos
 Flea and Tick Control
 Aloe Treatment for Skin
for new and Coat
$5 off customers
 Teeth Brushing
FURminator
Try our
®
1-800-PET-MOBILE
(1-800-738-6624)
reduces shedding
by 60-80%
3554 Concord Blvd. www.aussiepetmobile.com when done every 4-6 weeks
1 mile east of downtown Concord
689-4244
Page 24
l sports
ocal
By Jeanna Ross
The Concordian
aces for Literacy” raised
“R $5,582 for literacy tutoring
organizations in Contra
Costa County, a 16 percent increase
over last year’s tally.
Three different race levels allowed
varied abilities to participate in the
Oct. 26 event. A 10K race for adults
left the starting line of Iron Horse
Trail, then a 5K for all ages, followed
THE 10K FINISHERS – Women: Rosanna
Figueroa of Oakland won second for her
Monument Crisis Center team, Elisa Zuniga
of Concord won third, and Nora
Zweigbaum of Walnut Creek came in first
for her team, the Meadow Homes
Roadrunners.
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com
Runners hit their marks
to improve literacy
by a 1K stroll for children 6 to 12.
Awards were given for first, second
and third place winners of each gender
as well as to athletes with the best
Halloween costumes.
THE 10K FINISHERS – Men: Jason Stone of
Antioch (and his dog Lady) won second
place; Tom Arbuckle of Martinez won first
place with a time of 40:36, and Bob
Hermens of Clayton came in third.
In all, 134 registered runners partic-
ipated – each paying a $20 fee that
went directly to benefit literacy
activism. As runners prepared, their
families browsed a library book sale.
The participants were given free books
and a spaghetti lunch hosted by
Grissini.
Rosanna Figueroa of Oakland creat-
ed a team of 20 runners for the
December, 2008
photos by Jeanna Ross
Monument Crisis Center, where she is
the assistant director. A runner for 12
years, she had participated in several
charity races – including the MCC
team for the San Francisco Marathon
in 2006. She finished second in the
women’s 10K race.
Diablo Valley Literacy Council
member Wendy Schwerin, her hus-
band Rich and daughter Becky partici-
pated in their first 5K race. Becky ran
in costume as the book “Flat Stanley”
by Jeff Brown.
For the event, the Concord Hilton
and the Concord Rotary worked with
several organizations, including the
Monument Community Partnership,
the Central Contra Costa Literacy
Coalition, Wells Fargo, the Contra DIABLO VALLEY LITERARY COUNCIL MEMBER WENDY
Costa Times and Audio Visual SCHWERIN RAN THE 5K WITH HER HUSBAND RICH,
Management Services. a retired Northgate High School teacher,
and their daughter, Becky.
“The motivation is to raise aware-
ness of the importance of literacy as a event,” said Bonilla, now a county
basic building block foundation for supervisor. “In a diverse county such
leading a successful life, to gain new as Contra Costa, taking steps to
volunteers, to gain support from the improve literacy among residents who
public sector for funding, to gain cannot adequately read or write
money from the race to purchase English has a direct positive impact on
books and supplies and to encourage those residents’ earning power, quality
students to be involved in the commu- of life and the success that the chil-
nity,” said David Cantando, general dren in their families have in our
manager of the Hilton. “People who schools. Achieving basic literacy is the
have gained literacy skills are better first step in climbing the socioeconom-
customers throughout their life.” ic ladder.”
When she was mayor of Concord,
Susan Bonilla focused on literacy as a For more information on literacy
key objective. “We are glad to see lead- activism in Concord, call Bonilla’s
ing organizations in our community office at 521-7100 or visit
coming together to hold such an http://susanbonilla.org.
December, 2008
Mt. Diablo High
School sports stars
inducted at Hall of
Fame dinner
By Mike Dunn
The Concordian
ore than 300 current stu-
M
dents, former students and
coaches came together to
talk and catch up at the sixth annual
Mt. Diablo Sports Hall of Fame
induction dinner on Nov. 6 at Zio
Fraedo’s in Pleasant Hill.
Inductees were George Murchio,
baseball, class of 1915; Keith
Weidkamp, coach, cross country and
track, 1964-1975; Randy Teraberry,
cross county and track, class of 1970;
Malcolm Scott, wrestling (and also
carrying a 4.0 GPA), class of 1973;
and Dudley Gann, football and base-
ball, class of 1963.
City councilman Bill Shinn remi-
nisced with some of his buddies and
former coaches, Don Mederios and
Hart “the icon” Fairclough. From the
late 1950s to the early 1960s,
Fairclough and his assistants
coached championship football
teams.
“I graduated in 1959 – great year,
great school,” Shinn said. “I played
all three sports: football, wrestling
and track. Football was really my
sport. Wrestling was kind of one of
those sports that kept us in shape.
Track kept our speed up, agility-wise,
for the football season.”
Mt. Diablo athletic director Ryan
Leuschen pondered the possibility of
any current athletes being inducted
KEITH WEIDKAMP, former cross country coach and Mike Kincheloe’72 at the MDHSHOF
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 25
MEET THE AUTHORS AT CLAYTON BOOKS
Schedule of Dec. Events. If
12/1, Mon. 7pm . . . .Wona
you cannot attend, we are happy to get books signed for you.
Miniati, author of “Cooking with all things Trader Joe’s”
12/2, Tue. 7pm . . . . .Alan Jacobson, author of the FBI thriller “The 7th Victim”
12/3, Wed. 7pm . . . .Author Tea with Ann Packer, author of “Songs Without Words” and
“The Dive from Clausen's Pier,” at Oakhurst Country Club. Advance reservation required.
12/6, Sat. 2pm . . . . .Dan Piraro, author of “Bizarro Buccaneers: Nuttin’ But Pirate Cartoons”
12/7, Sun. 3-5pm . . .Brian Murphy, KNBR radio personality and author of
“The San Francisco Giants: 50 Years.”
12/8, Mon. 7pm . . . .J.A. Jance, International bestselling author presents her book “Cruel Intent.”
12/9, Tue. 7pm . . . . .Frances Dinkelspiel, author of “Towers of Gold: How One Jewish
Immigrant Named Isaias Hellman Created California.”
In the Clayton Station
Open: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
5433 D Clayton Rd., Clayton
joelharris@aol.com  www.claytonbookshop.com (925) 673-3325
ual
15 Ann
th
hosted by
the Clayton Valley High School
Athletic Boosters Club
Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009
6 p.m. at Centre Concord
Mike Dunn/The Concordian
CHARLENE MARTINEZ, DONOVAN SHORTER, JAMES This is a major fundraiser which directly
WOLF AND TUYEN LE were recognized for their benefits all athletic programs at CVHS.
contributions to MDHS sports Seating is limited.
Tickets $50
Available at the school or online at
in the future. “I definitely see a few www.cvhsboosters.org
prospects out there who I believe
could be in the hall of fame and Donations or questions
are accepted by emailing
could be recognized for their statis-
tics,” he said. “We have had a lot of crabfeed@cvhsboosters.org
athletes who have been participating
in our program for four years in the
same sport and some of them partici-
pated in all of the sports every year.
They should definitely by recog-
nized.”
At the dinner, several student ath-
letes were noted for their contribu-
tions: Charlene Martinez, Donovan
Shorter, James Wolf and Tuyen Le.
Leuschen graduated from Mt.
Diablo High Class in 1996 as a class
valedictorian. “Once a Red Devil
always a Red Devil,” he said with a
smile.
Mike Dunn/The Concordian
Page 26
The banks own a number of
homes in the area. Many of them will be
fixers. If you are considering buying and would like to
tour bank owned properties go to
www.tourbankowned.com or call 800-834-9096
Take advantage of this rare
market and buy a
house now while
the prices are low
www.whatisourhomeworth.biz
Walnut Creek firm founders, teach free workshops
helping families save thousands
Walnut Creek – East Bay par-
ents, who plan to send their child
to college in the next few years,
but aren’t quite sure how to pay
for it can now rest a little easier.
Sean Connors & Alexis Alekna
founders of College Planning
Specialists in Walnut Creek are
educating parents in the communi-
ty about what to do to pay the least
amount for their child or multiple
children’s education.
‘It’s really sad, but most parents
we talk to have done really well
financially, but never found the
time to save for college, and now
they’re facing a bill of $15,000-
$50,000 per year, and they don’t
know who to turn to,’ Connors
says. ‘Plus, most families never
even bother applying for aid
because they feel they make too
much money or listen to the
wrong people. Where now we are
seeing families with a solid six-
figure income cut college costs by
$30,000.’
College Planning Specialists
would know, because their compa-
ny has helped thousands of fami-
lies ranging from single parents to
corporate CEO’s and are the fore-
most authority that news profes-
sionals turn to for answers on col-
lege and financial aid. ‘My family
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com
Richard Lueck
4691 Clayton Rd Ste A, Concord
Phone: (925) 465-9554
Email: housematch@gmail.com
had no idea how the system
worked. Even with a baseball
scholarship I graduated with $50k
in loans and my parents accumu-
lated debt from my college as
well,’ says Connors. ‘That’s why I
am excited to share this informa-
tion with families, helping them
avoid the same pitfalls and mis-
takes that me & my family could-
n’t.’
Alekna, the financial specialist,
feels the planning process needs to
start early. ‘Simply put, we show
parents the truth that they aren’t
hearing anywhere else about how
the college process really works.
We show them how they can get
their child into a the ‘best-fit’
school easily and help them pick a
school that will suit them…both
academically and financially, sav-
ing them thousands of dollars in
the process.”
Contra Costa County parents
will have two opportunities to
hear Sean & Alexis speak. They
are teaching their class ‘Receiving
Maximum Money for College!’ on
the 2nd of December at the
Ygnacio Valley Library in Walnut
Creek and December 9th at the
Danville Library.
‘Our class will reveal astonish-
ing ways to beat the high cost of
college that educated parents
across the country are using to pay
almost nothing for college. In fact,
hundreds who have attended these
workshops have discovered new
secrets and strategies to send their
children to schools they never
thought they could afford,’ Alekna
grins.
Topics will also include why
private scholarships and recently
started 529 plans can be a waste of
time, how to double or even triple
the amount of free money you
receive from each school. As well
as how to avoid the one mistake
that will kill your chances of get-
ting any money at all, that almost
every other parent will make this
year. ‘They will learn a lot about
this process and I do my best to
make the class fun,’ Connors says.
Don’t forget: the class is totally
free, but seats are limited, and
every month they turn away many
families due to high demand. It’s
easy to register but it’s important
to do so soon, especially due to the
overwhelming response from the
last 2 months workshops.
You can RSVP for you and your
family by visiting them online at
www.CollegeFundsNow.com or
by calling (888) 210-2606 today.
Doug Prutton
legal
briefs
Understanding liability
for injuries from falls
arla Clumzee tells her lawyer
C this story: “I was in the
Dangerway grocery store the
other day when I slipped and fell on
some liquid on the floor and hurt my
back. Do I have a case?”
The lawyer asks: “Do you know what
the liquid was?” Carla says: “No, but it
was clear and seemed to be coming
from underneath the cooler in the fish
department.”
Many people believe that when
someone slips and falls, the property
owner – whether it be a grocery store,
a homeowner or a train station – is
responsible. This is not true. A proper-
ty owner is only responsible if the
property owner was somehow at fault
for the fall. The injured person must
prove that the property owner did
something wrong to cause the fall.
Ms. Clumzee must prove either that
the grocery store was responsible for
the liquid on the floor or that it was
there long enough that an employee
should have noticed the liquid and
cleaned it up. Proving such a case can
be difficult. How does the customer
know how the liquid got on the floor or
how long it had been there?
Since the liquid was clear and
seemed to be coming from underneath
the cooler, it suggests a problem with
the cooler – which would be the
responsibility of the grocery store.
Further, since the liquid was in a loca-
tion that the employees working in the
fish department could easily observe, it
suggests the employees knew or should
have known of the liquid and cleaned it
up.
These facts are different than a cus-
tomer simply slipping on some
unknown substance in a grocery store
aisle. In that kind of case, it can be vir-
We can assist you with:
 Wrongful termination
 Overtime & wage claims
 Harassment & discrimination
 Auto accidents & slip/falls
December, 2008
tually impossible to prove that the
store was responsible for the spill or
how long the spill was there.
Falls on sidewalks involve similar
issues. The injured person must show
that the sidewalk was dangerous (usu-
ally because it is cracked or uneven)
and that the owner of the sidewalk was
responsible for the defect, or that the
defect was there long enough that the
owner should have known about it.
For example, when tree roots grow
underneath a sidewalk and lift or crack
the sidewalk, it can often be deter-
mined that the defect was there for
quite some time and that the owner
should have known about it.
Homeowners are not responsible for
maintaining public sidewalks in front
of their homes, but homeowners can be
responsible for dangerous sidewalk
conditions that they cause.
Most sidewalk claims are brought
against cities, and the main issues usu-
ally are whether the particular defect
was dangerous (usually the easy part)
and whether the city caused the defect
or the city knew or should have known
of the defect (usually the hard part). If
someone trips on a public sidewalk
which is uneven, typically the uneven-
ness must be at least one inch for there
to be any liability.
With most slip/fall or trip/fall cases,
there is also the issue of “comparative
negligence.” If the person who fell is
partially responsible for the fall, i.e.,
they should have looked where they
were walking, the amount they can
recover is reduced by their percentage
of responsibility.
Doug Prutton is an attorney in
Concord. Contact him at
(925) 677-5080.
Contingency fees
Free consultation
25 years experience
(925) 677-5080
1866 Clayton Rd., Suite 211,Concord
December, 2008
Celebrating 50 years in Concord, the Ouimet
brothers still provide personal service
By André Gensburger
The Concordian
here are four Ouimets who are
T happy to tell you about the last
50 years of the family business,
Ouimet Bros. Concord Funeral Home –
from humble beginnings with a clear
philosophy of “people first” that
remains true today.
John Ouimet, married to Sharon,
and Don Ouimet, married to Bea, are
the brothers for whom the funeral
service is named. Service is the corner-
stone of this family business, and it has
always been that way. In a time of
grief, they don’t want you speaking to
just anyone.
“We stress personalized service,”
John said.
John, who will be 80 on his next
birthday, has seen many changes over
the years. It has convinced him that
their personalized contact separates
them from others in the business.
“It really is a ministry,” said Sharon.
“We’ve met a lot of people under
very trying circumstances,” John
added. “You are there to help them.
The majority have no idea where to
Photo from The Ouimet Bros. Concord Funeral Chapel occupy on
THE ORIGINAL LOUGH-OUIMET AMBULANCE from the late 1950’s
start. It is gratifying to be able to help
them.”
“At the end of the day,” Bea said,
“you realize that it is not about the job.
It is so much more.”
“Of course, some days you just go
home and cry,” Don said, referring to
tragedies the family has seen involving
children as well as friends made, and
lost, over the many years in Concord.
Moving in the right direction
Of the four, three are native
Canadians, born in Quebec. Don and
John’s family immigrated to New York
in 1946.
“Dad was looking for a better life,”
Don said. “All seven of us survived the
Great Depression. Not well – we lost
everything we had, but we survived.”
Two weeks after John applied for
citizenship, he was drafted for the
Korean War. Ultimately, he was sent to
Cambria to work. “There was a radar
site on the coast that monitored all air-
craft traffic,” he said. “We had to ID
the aircraft or we would have to send
planes to intercept.”
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 27
Sharon was the California girl whom
John met during a basketball game
played at the air base where he was
stationed. From there, John started
mortuary college and Sharon went to
business school. They both got jobs at a
mortuary in San Jose.
Launching a business
Things started taking shape at the
end of 1958. In partnership with Roy
and Ardell Lough, John and Sharon
opened the Lough-Ouimet Concord
Funeral Chapel at the corner of Grant
Street and Concord Boulevard. Roy
and John were Air Force buddies.
“We looked for an area that was
populated but without a funeral home,”
John said. “There was only one mortu-
ary in Concord.”
“We had an investor,” Sharon said, Andre’ Gensburger/The Concordian
“Dr. J.A. Trolan was one of our bene- DON AND BEA OUIMET with Sharon anf John Ouimet delight in their many years of service
factors. That family was very good to
us.” the business. “Our role here is so strong that peo-
“We sold in 1997 to one of the ple do not realize we had sold the busi-
It took about five years to get the
business established. Bea and Don smaller companies,” Bea said, stressing ness,” Bea said. “We still represent the
that they looked at the family values business.”
came along in 1971. In November that
year, the partnership ended and the and company philosophy. “John knew The funeral industry has had its
their acquisitions person, so we trusted share of negative press, from pressure
two brothers began working together.
With the redevelopment of down- his judgment.” tactics to abuse of pre-need funds. To
The Houston firm that purchased combat this, the family maintains a
town Concord,
the brothers Ouimet Bros. promptly hired three of high regard for disclosure to the public,
found them- the family back as consultants and the as well as insistence that pre-need
selves pushed faces of the business, and hired Bea funds are held in trust with the option
out. Finding a fulltime. of cancellation.
site originally “We are very fortunate to have a During their time of grief, families
zoned for four staff of younger people who know what are allowed to select funeral caskets,
homes, they good service is,” Sharon said. “The urns and additional components with-
began con- boys have things they want done just out the pressure of a representative
struction of right. I never thought we would be here watching over them.
the building for 50 years.” And the business is still handled
they now “No regrets,” John said. “We were with their noted attention to detail, so
well-received and I would do it again.” that you are talking to an Ouimet who
Clayton Road. “In a minute,” Don said in agree- cares with fifty years of personal
“On Jan. 5, ment. service.
The family has kept all the thank
1985, we closed one set of doors and
opened another,” Don explained. you notes they have received over the Ouimet Bros. Concord Funeral
years and placed most in albums. The Home is at 4125 Clayton Road.,
“The city of Concord was very help-
ful – it made the move as smooth as books serve to remind them of their Concord. Call 682-4242 or visit
mandate and the responsibility they www.ouimetbrothers.com.
possible,” Bea noted. “Some neighbors
didn’t receive us well at first, but as take seriously.
time passed they saw us as good neigh-
bors.”
Staying involved after
the sale
Between the two couples there are
six children, three from each brother.
“None have an interest in taking over,”
Don said.
“They all have good work ethics,”
Bea added. “And why wouldn’t they?
They watched their parents working 24
hours a day, seven days a week. Even
on holidays, the red phone would ring.”
“They would tell us to throw that red
phone away,” Don said jokingly of the
business line.
With no prospects of their children
continuing the business and wishing to
slow down in their lives, the Ouimets
began to entertain the idea of selling
Page 28
a rts
entertainment
& Adrienne Barbeau
Novelists converge on Clayton Books
By Mike Dunn
The Concordian
It was a dark and stormy night … no,
that’s not it. It was a sunny, hot after-
noon … no, that’s not it either. I got it! It
was a cool, sunny, bright Sunday morn-
ing when a small group of writers gath-
ered to participate in National Novel
Writing Month on Nov. 2 at Clayton
Books in Clayton.
NaNoWriMo is a creative writing proj-
ect in which participants attempt to write
a 50,000-word novel during the month.
Armed with laptops and pads of paper,
the writers were eager to get started.
Some even had outlines with a good idea
WRITERS JEANNA ROSS AND CARISSA WEINTRAUB discuss plot at the Clayton Books NaNoWriMo
event
‘Nuncrackers’ a successful holiday variation on a theme
By Jeanna Ross
The Concordian
“Nuncrackers,” the fourth show in
Dan Goggin’s “Nunsense” series, has
once again made its holiday home at the
Willow’s Cabaret in Martinez.
This is the second year in a row that
the cabaret has staged this production,
which runs through Dec. 21. “It’s such a
great, family-oriented holiday show – a
fun alternative to ‘The Nutcracker’ or ‘A
Christmas Carol,’ ” says Willows general
manager Chris Butler.
The Willows is no stranger to the
craziness inspired by the Sisters of
Hoboken. They have produced six of the
eight musicals in the series over the last
two decades. “The audience reaction is
always wonderful for all the ‘Nunsense’
shows,” Butler notes.
Playwright and director Goggin has
been on hand to direct all the produc-
tions at the Cabaret, as well as all the
West Coast premieres on the Willows
mainstage. Additionally, many of the
cast members have prior “Nunsense”
credits.
Goggin is thrilled to return to the
Willows and the “Nuncrackers” commu-
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com
of what they wanted to write.
“I read about NaNoWriMo in The
Concordian and I knew it was something
I wanted to do,” said writer and teacher
Clarissa Wientraub. “I’ve been writing all
my life, but I haven’t written a story even
though I always wanted to. I’ve been a
big journal writer since I was 13 years old
but haven’t been very comfortable put-
ting my thoughts down on paper for a
novel.”
Jeanna Ross, a teacher at Clayton
Valley High, has been writing since she
was 8. “About two years ago, I decided to
write my big novel to see if I could do it
and I did,” she said. “Now I want to do it
again. I love it.”
Mike Dunn/The Concordian
nity. “Several people in the Martinez
show are friends and a bunch of the kids
are coming back, so they’ll already know
some of it,” he says. “It’s a real first-class,
talent-driven production.”
Goggin has spent nearly his entire
professional life with “Nunsense,” which
was inspired by his Catholic education in
AMY WASHBURN (LEFT) AS MOTHER SUPERIOR who reprises her role this year along with Deborah
Del Mastro (far right), who returns as Sister Robert Ann. They appear with students caught
up in the Catholic education antics portrayed in this popular production.
The Concordian editor Andre’
Gensburger approached Clayton Books
owner Joel Harris about the project. “I
had never heard of NaNoWriMo, and I
found it particularly interesting because
I’m working on a project myself right
now,” Harris said. “I took a look at the
Website and it seemed like a perfect fit.
Obviously, writers should be in book-
stores.”
The event started with eight writers,
and Harris expected more to wander in
throughout the month. The store also
was hosting a group of local authors who
have already had their books published.
Among those is Gensburger, author of
“Signs You May Be An Idiot” which is
available at the bookstore.
For more information visit
www.nanowrimo.org
William Sawyers’ Children’s Books
Alma, Mich. “The five nuns in the origi-
nal show are based on five nuns who
taught me,” he reports. “They consider
themselves huge stars. They all know
who they are, and they’re the show’s
biggest fans.”
There are two primary keys to the suc-
cess of the series. First, despite the title,
December, 2008
brings Hollywood
to town
Actress, musician, comedian, singer
and author Adrienne Barbeau visited
Clayton Books last month to talk about
her life and her new book, “Vampyres
of Hollywood.”
Holbrook Elementary custodian
William Sawyers writes and sells chil-
dren’s books. From poetry which he
started writing 25 years ago, he has
turned out a series of coloring and
story/riddle books that have found a
market at school, as well as an online
fan base.
“I get happiness from the kids,”
Sawyers said. “I like to hear them
laugh.” He also donates 10% of his
profit to the school. For more informa-
tion visit williamsawyers.com
it has nothing to do with religion. “We’ve
been very careful not to bring in anything
too contemporary or controversial – our
whole goal is just to make people laugh,”
Goggin says. “When you leave, we want
you to go out feeling better than when
you came in.”
Second, while all seven shows share
the same endearing characters, audiences
do not need to be familiar with the other
productions to enjoy “Nuncrackers.”
It has certainly been a successful theo-
ry – this year is the 25th anniversary of
the original 1983 production. A birthday
production, starring Sally Struthers, is
currently touring the East Coast.
Goggin estimates that more than
40,000 nuns have tread the boards in
more than 8,000 productions worldwide.
At the Willows alone, the shows have
racked up 767 performances, with more
than 114,000 in attendance.
“There’s no end in sight,” says Goggin.
“It’s the best relief you can get from the
news, and it is far cheaper than a thera-
pist.”
The theater is at 636 Ward St.,
Martinez. For tickets, call 798-1300 or
visit www.willowstheatre.org.
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 29

Authors reveal the mysteries of their craft

no spontaneity. I had to rewrite it as a
screenplay and then write it back into
book form.”).
Universally, the advice to budding Quality workmanship
authors was to “stick with it.” Each of
them suffered setbacks on the road to
publication, but they persevered.
Reliable
“Writing is a craft,” says Stanley, “just Realistic construction schedules
like anything else. You have to work at it,
to learn it. If you stick with it, you can do
whatever you want to do. It’s not a mat-
On-budget
ter of talent or not. You have to find what (925) 687-8507  (925) 518-4966
you’re happiest doing and pursue that.” Free estimates
The Concord Mystery Book Club
meets at 2:30 p.m. the second Sunday
krdesign_construction@msn.com
Local resident CA Lic. 857254
of each month at the Concord Library,
2900 Salvio St. Visit ccclib.org for

certified
details.

Jeanna Ross/The Concordian

MODERATOR CAMILLE MINICHINO, Kelli Stanley and Mark Coggins, three of the mystery authors
particpating in the panel
By Jeanna Ross
The Concordian
The final event for Concord’s “One
City, One Book” campaign was a panel
with mystery authors Kelli Stanley, Mark
Coggins and Camille Minichino. All three
are members of the Sisters in Crime,
Northern California chapter, and have
published multiple novels in the genre.
Stanley is best known for creating a
new genre of mystery, one she dubs
“Romanoir.” Her books combine her
master’s degree in classics with her love
of a good puzzle to set her first novel,
“Nox Dormienda,” in the year 1 B.C.
Her greatest desire is to preserve his-
tory. “I want to make history immediate,
make it alive,” she says. “History matters
very, very much to our present. I want to
remind people of that importance by
making it entertaining, visceral.”
Coggins has a fruitful career in the
technology industry, but his passion for
noir thrillers came from a creative writ-
ing class he took with Tobias Woolf while
studying at Stanford. That spawned a
Discover
short story starring his primary charac-
ter, August Riordan.
Today, his day job provides fodder for
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his writing. “My novels usually have a
core issue involving technology or cur-
Rediscover You
rent events.”
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Minichino has two separate writing
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363.5432
careers. She is the author of the “Periodic www.SalonEpiffani.com 2230 SALVIO STREET,
Table” mysteries, but she also writes CONCORD
“The Miniature Mysteries” under the pen
FULL SERVICE SALON
(in the the Todos Santos Plaza)
name Margaret Grace.” Her second series
was drawn from a childhood hobby of
making miniature dollhouse furniture.
“Crafts are actually a big part of the
industry, so it fits with today’s market,”
she notes.
As audience members submitted ques-
tions, the authors discussed everything
from inspiration and day jobs to finding
that first publisher and marketing their
books. Each shared personal anecdotes of
their successes and failures, ranging from
the disappearance of Stanley’s first agent
(“She moved to Costa Rica! I was
bereft!”) to the roundabout creation of
Coggins’s second novel (“I wrote a
detailed outline, but it made a book with

“Whiskers” based on “The Velveteen

Rabbit” celebrates 14th anniversary
Galatean Players Ensemble Theatre once again stages the popular children’s musical
WHISKERS! by Caroline Altman, at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek.
Based on Margery Williams’ classic THE VELVETEEN RABBIT, the show has run annu-
ally for the past 14 years.
Altman, Educational Director of the San Francisco Opera and a teacher, wrote the book,
lyrics and music for WHISKERS, the story of a Rabbit on his search for “real.” “Be A Toy!”
sing a nursery full of toys in this whimsical telling of the Rabbit’s journey to the discovery:
“It’s when you can love, it’s when you can care… you’re finally aware, you’re real.”
The play has consistently sold out each year, a very difficult thing for theatres in the
East Bay.
The Musical plays Saturdays, Dec. 13 & 20 at 4:15 p.m. & 7:15 p.m., and Monday,
Wednesday, Friday, Dec. 15, 17 & 19 at 9:15 a.m.,11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m. Tickets range from
$8 - $15 and are available by calling (925) 943-SHOW (7469). Senior, group and school
discounts are available. http://galateanplayersensemble.homestead.com/whiskers.html.

Concord’s #1 recommended & trusted handyman for over 7 years...

Page 30 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008

A NEW GREEN GENERATION sponsored by Concord Disposal

Robert Waldman, D.D.S.

something to
This Holiday, Turn on the Green!
Dreaming of a White Christmas? According to the price
smile about
comparison search engine PriceGrabber.com, American consumers prefer
“green” to white: 71 percent of consumers say they plan to buy environ-
Important dental
mentally-friendly or energy-efficient products when possible this holiday
season. Looking for economical ways to have an eco-friendly holiday this
treatments can
year? Check out these tips. help your smile
Exchange Your Old Christmas Lights for LED’S –
hen do you smile? When can camouflage other flaws without

W
LED lights may cost a little more, but they last 20 times longer and use a
fraction of the energy. Some new LED’s boast a savings of $80 in just one you’re greeting someone, try-
holiday season! ing to reassure someone,
sharing joy or putting a good face on
Make Your Own Gift Wrapping – Most mass-produced things. And, of course, when you are
wrapping paper is not recyclable and ends up in the landfill. This year, try happy.
wrapping gifts in reusable bags, make colorful fabric bags from scraps; use Smiles not only help us communi-
the Sunday comics, old maps or children’s artwork. Get creative! If every cate, we express ourselves with them.
family were to wrap just three gifts this way, we would save enough paper Like our hair, clothes, job and home,
to cover 45,000 football fields. smiles convey who we are.
Smiles make us feel good in another
Recycle Your Christmas Tree – If you buy a real tree each way, because they release endorphins –
year, don’t feel guilty. 98 percent of all Christmas trees are grown on
which gives us a natural high.
farms, not forests. The bad news: Each year, 10 million Christmas trees
Whitening or bleaching lightens
end up in the landfill. Check to see if your curbside recycling collection
tooth color that may have darkened
company offers Christmas tree recycling to turn your tree into mulch or
due to age, smoking, coffee, tea, red
wood chips. If not, ask them why not. You can also take your Christmas
wine or medication.
tree to Mt. Diablo Recycling Center at 1300 Loveridge Road to have it recy-
Crowns cover cracked, broken and
cled. Remember, no tinsel or icicles.
poorly shaped teeth to restore a natural
Check out the Cool Eco-Friendly Presents – Giving appearance.
green doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the gifts you choose this Veneers are laboratory fabricated
holiday season. Take a look at these great internet gift sites to celebrate the porcelain shells which cover the front
planet earth: Eco-Artware.com has handcrafted artwork, jewelry and other of a tooth to improve shape and color.
great items made from recyclable items; Ecoexpress.com has natural organ- The type of veneer and the laboratory
ic gifts such as decadent chocolates, olive oils and even a beautiful “herb” used will determine how much of your
wreaths; and, Uncommongoods.com has some interesting eco-friendly enamel is reduced.
gadgets such as a solar powered laptop case, a solar powered radio and cool Chair-side bonding typically uses a
solar lighting. resin that covers discolored teeth and
excessively reducing enamel. Resin
bonding is not as strong as a porcelain
veneer.
Bridges replace one or more natural
teeth by supporting a false tooth which
has been attached to one or two other
crowned teeth.
Braces correct crooked or crowded
teeth, underbites, overbites or uneven
bites.
Composite inlays/onlays restore and
strengthen decayed areas while looking
like your original tooth.
Implants are used to replace missing
teeth without involving other teeth for
support.
Consistent visits to your dentist will
help keep your gums and teeth healthy
so you are proud to show them off.
And remember, swish, floss and
brush at least two times a day.
For more information contact Robert
H. Waldman, D.D.S. at 925-682-6940
or you can email him at roberthwald-
mandds@sbcglobal.net.

Give Memories Not Stuff – Give the gift of experience, an

activity or event – instead of purchasing a gift that gets stored away in the
closet. Try restaurant certificates, theater, movie or museum passes, yoga
classes or a gym membership, or for an older relative, sign up for a class or Specializing in Kitchen Cabinets,
a one-day trip offered by the local senior center. Granite, & Flooring

Save Energy in the New Year – Take a pledge to reduce your 1190 Burnett Ave.,
energy use next year. Installing six new energy-saving light bulbs in the Hours: Ste. C, Concord
new year will save the average American $60 per year. Turning down your Mon-Fri 9-5:30,
thermostat by just five degrees, will save 10 percent on your energy costs. Sat. 10-5
Check out the Sierra Club’s home energy-saving check list by visiting call 866-446-1075 Contractor’s
http://www.sierraclub.org/coolhome/mrgreenchecklist.pdf. License
#894834

Happy Holidays from Mary Garaventa and Family

and Concord Disposal Service

tistry
D en ch
ily g tou
m
Fa carin
h a cs
wit cos
meti
d
an
th
n
tio nt h eal
e n
v lle
i s pre exce
S is
O CU OAL
r F ur G
Ou O Robert H. Waldman, D.D.S.
3042 Clayton Rd., Concord
(925) 682-6940
www.roberthwaldmandds.com
December, 2008 The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com Page 31

Josie Van Fleet Conventional Underwriting standards. A
first time buyer is someone who has not
owned real estate as a primary residence
the
real in the last three years.
offering the use of the California
Homebuyer’s Downpayment Assistance
Program (CHDAP) subordinate loan pro-
gram, provided the combined loan-to-
value of the transaction does not exceed

deal
Can down payment assistance pro-
grams be used with CSHLP?
Yes. Your loan officer can assist you
with this information. Your lender must
be a CalHfa approved lender.
102 percent.
Both the REO Smart Loan Program
and the CalHFA Community Stabilization
Home Loan Programs are available at 5.5
percent.

What are some of the additional Let’s look at the standard FHA loan

Finding answers for requirements for this program?

The property must be a selected REO
by a participating financial institution or
product.
Currently the required down-payment
is 3 percent and all borrowers are wel-

first time home buyers seller/servicer. A list of participating

re you a first time home
financial institutions is located on the
CSHLP Web page. The property must
come to participate in this program as
long as their credit and income qualify.
This borrower does not have to be low
meet all CalHFA and Fannie Mae repair, income to participate.
Which properties are eligible?

A buyer? What a wonderful

opportunity exists to
acquire the American dream and own
Many vacant properties owned by par-
ticipating financial institutions or
seller/servicers are eligible. As of Jul. 21,
inspection and health and safety codes.
The property must be vacant.

Let’s look at the CalHFA’s REO

your own home.
Despite the media reports of
gloom and doom, there are still all
types of loans available for home pur-
chase so long as the borrower is credit
worthy.
Here are some FAQs and answers to
help you navigate home loan waters:
What is the Community Stabilization
Home Loan Program, or CSHLP?
The CSHLP helps first-time home
buyers purchase vacant homes that are
owned by participating financial institu-
tions to help hard-hit communities get
back on their feet during these turbulent
times.
2008, these institutions included Fannie
Mae, CitiMortgage, Inc. and its affiliates,
Wells Fargo Premiere Asset Services, and
Homeq Servicing. Lists are available on
the Calhfa Website.
What areas of the state are eligible
for this program?
All 58 counties in California are eligi-
ble.
Which buyers are eligible?
Borrowers must be eligible under
Fannie Mae credit guidelines and maxi-
mum loan limits. Borrowers must also
meet CalHFA’S requirements for first-
time homebuyer status, income limits,
residency requirements, and CalHfa
Smart Loan Program
The Callifornia Housing Finance
Agency announced the SMART Loan
Program effective Nov. 23, 2008. This
program offers a special reduced interest
rate and, depending on the loan type, up
to 100 percent loan-to-value financing
for designated properties owned by
CalHFA. Low and moderate income
first-time buyers who meet CalHFA’s eli-
gibility requirements of purchasing a
CalHFA REO property may qualify for an
FHA, VA, USDA or Conventional insured
30-year fixed mortgage at a special 5.5
percent interest rate. To further help bor-
rowers finance the purchase of an eligible
CalHFA’S REO property, CalHFA is
As of Jan. 1, 2009 the down-payment
will be increased to 3 1/2 percent. The
current loan limit for high cost counties
for a single family residence is $729,750.
Effective Jan. 1, 2009 this limit will be
adjusted to $625,500. FHA credit
requirements and income to debt ratios
are lenient. The property purchased in
this loan program does not have to be an
REO or bank-owned property.
The standard FHA loan is a wonderful
loan program which allows families to
realize the American homeowner dream
with little money out of pocket.
Contact your loan officer to find the
right loan for you.
Josie Van Fleet is a real estate bro-
ker with J. Rockcliff Realtors, Inc. Call
her with questions or comments at
(925) 280-6470 or email teamvan-
fleet@aol.com.

y H o l i d a y s from our family

a p p to you
rs
H The Van Fleet Team, Inc. representing J. Rockliffe Realtors
Josie Van Fleet
Kim Chambers
Darren Banke
Kimberlee Griffith
Flor Dominguez
Carina Camp
Jackie Kim
Adam Chan

Homes sold and pending by the Van Fleet Team in 2008 year to date Home available for sale
1218 Nausin Lane 4255 Marietta Ct 5225 Clydesdale Way 332 Egret Place 22 Country Place 855 Navaronne Way
728 Wedgewood Dr 754 Ygnacio Woods Ct 3624 Chestnut Ave 4340 Via Dora Dr 308 Carolina St 1937 Burnside Ct
2373 Saint George 2306 Parish Dr 1370 Stonewood Dr 1522 Norine Dr 100 Kings Canyon Way 313 Meagan Lane
2398 Acacia Drive 4865 Chablis Court 8 Clark Creek Circle 5113 Ebbetts Way 378 Olive St 4336 Wilson Lane
5226 Clydesdale Way 332 Egret Place 1487 Camino Peral 1855 Wren Lane 2341 Bonifacio St 2107 Willow Pass Rd
3624 Chestnut Ave 4340 Via Dora Dr 1618 Yeoman 815 San Simeon Dr 3687 Treat Blvd 2657 Newell Ave
1370 Stonewood Dr 1522 Norine Dr 1091 Nursery Lane 1117 Corrie Lane 4215 Leon Dr 1612 Mary Lane
8 Clark Creek Circle 5113 Ebbetts Way 1006 Bermuda Dr 1082 Bountiful Way 5476 Roundtree Pl #K
1487 Camino Peral 1855 Wren Lane 1806 Alicante Court 25002 Silverthorne Place
1618 Yeoman 815 San Simeon Dr 1612 Lynwood Dr 118 Judy Court
1091 Nursery Lane 1117 Corrie Lane 308 Diablo Creek Ct 159 Plov Way Homes Are Selling.......When You Choose
1006 Bermuda Dr 1082 Bountiful Way 151 Mountaire Parkway 5067 Clayton Rd
1806 Alicante Court 2501218 Nausin Lane 4255 Marietta Ct 5195 Clayton Rd Our Team We Will Get It Done For You!
1612 Lynwood Dr 728 Wedgewood Dr 754 Ygnacio Woods Ct 51 Pointsetttia Ave
308 Diablo Creek Ct 2373 Saint George 2306 Parish Dr 2438 Whitetail Dr
151 Mountaire Parkway 2398 Acacia Dr 4865 Chablis Court

Josie Van Fleet Broker Associate

Families mov
ing with pets e t Suites Inn
have special
needs. P Pet sitting
and the Van Fleet Team Call Josie tod
49 years combined experience a free consult
ay for at its finest.
J. Rockcliff Realtors, Inc.
ation
(925) 280-6470 Member ABKA
and Pet Sitters of America
Specializing in Concord/Clayton since 1989
Member Contra Costa Association of Realtors
925-673-1184
Honor Roll Member Better Business Bureau Van Fleet family owned
Affiliate Member CC Bar Association 18 years experience
Licensed  Insured
Page 32
Rodie’s Old West charm and expertise
is more than for the birds
By André Gensburger
The Concordian
ob Rodenburg opened Rodie’s in
B
June 1982 as a feed and country
store along Marsh Creek Road,
just on the outskirts of the city limits.
“It was a feed store and a little later
we added a lumber yard,” Bob
explained. “And a little later we had a
landscaping materials business and then
we gradually added the mini storage
and RV storage, shut down the lumber
yard and landscaping materials and
went back to just basic feed and pet sup-
ply.”
Two years ago, his wife Sarah got
involved and Rodie’s transformed from
just a feed store to one of the country’s
most respected avian specialists.
“I had my own business for a number
of years and was diagnosed with late
stage cancer in 2000,” Sarah explained.
“And here I am eight years later, in
remission, and I wanted to get involved
in something.”
Sarah decided she wanted a bird and
finally had a home big enough to house
one, so she began searching through all
the bird shops in the area. Meanwhile,
Rodie’s lost the feed contract for the
county shelter, which they had for 25
years.
“We had to reinvent ourselves and
determine how we would stay alive, so I
asked Bob whether I could bring birds
into the store,” Sarah said. “And he said:
‘What, are you nuts?’ ”
Nevertheless, she had a little corner
of the store for a parrot, which was on
consignment from a breeder. “By the
time they had bought the bird, the cage,
the toys and the feed, that was a $3,000
sale,” Sarah reported. The next morn-
ing, Bob asked when she would be
expanding.
Slowly she began taking over more of
Travis Credit Union gets in the holiday spirit
T reaching out by taking part in three holiday
TRAVIS CREDIT UNION EMPLOYEES show off the gifts donated for Christmas Wish 2007.
The Concordian • www.myconcordian.com December, 2008
the square footage, turning the ware-
house into cleaner and brighter retail
space.
“We are still looking to add more
things next year and hope to expand in
the future to include a training area as
well as being able to attract more pro-
motional business,” she added.
“Our store is not that old dusty, dirty
feed store it once was,” Sarah said. “We
take pride in it. Every birdcage gets
cleaned every single day. The birds get
fresh water twice a day, fresh food, cut-
up vegetables and get handled every
day.”
Rodie’s has two volunteers come in to
play with the birds. Last fall, Sarah
obtained manuals from the Pet Industry
Joint Advisory Council and she now has
seven certified avian specialists in the
store.
“That is important in California
because by law, in order to hand-feed André Gensburger/The Concordian
birds in a store, you have to have a certi- RODIE’S OWNERS BOB AND SARAH RODENBURG show off one of the many birds that have earned
fied avian specialist,” Sarah noted. them special recognition as the only store with seven certified avian specialists in the state.
They buy birds from breeders
just walk around and look at the birds.” have a heart evaluation, an EKG and a
“almost right out of the nest,” Bob said.
Rodie’s is also a distributor for Elk chest X-ray. Thirteen tumors were
“We have a nursery for the birds and
Grove Milling. “Back in February, we found in her lungs.
hand-feed them and bring them up to
started with pellets and horse feed that “I was told had I not come in, I would
weaning. When they are sufficiently
is delivered to stables in 250-pound bar- have died from a heart attack and never
socialized, we can bring them in the
rels,” Bob said. known about the cancer,” she said. She
store.”
Bob, a self-taught woodworker, has attributes her survival to “luck” and the
The nursery is in the double-wide
spent years building their house, along type of uterine cancer that she calls “the
trailer that Bob and Sarah lived in for 10
with kitchen cabinets. Sarah, an avid better type.”
years. It keeps the young birds away
golfer, enjoys the skill of the sport after With her cancer in remission, Sarah
from the adults until their immune sys-
abandoning tennis due to tennis elbow looks forward to even more growth for
tem develops. Volunteers come to help
in her late 30s. the business. The next goal is working
socialize them.
They like spending time with their on a Website. She also plans a remodel,
“We’ve had field trips for kids,” Sarah
grandchildren, ages 4 and 6, with Bob adding a double door and a window
said. “We are more than willing to help
teaching them woodworking. among other things.
the community to educate them about
“Wednesday, we all meet at Ed’s,” Sarah “I’m optimistic.” Sarah said. “We’re
birds.”
said, and Bob takes them to the park a good team. We work really well
Customers come from as far as
afterward or out for yogurt. together.”
Modesto and Sacramento. “We’ve been
With a positive attitude and determi-
told by so many customers that Rodie’s
nation, Sarah dealt with late stage uter- Rodie’s is at 8863 Marsh Creek
is a special place to come,” she added.
ine cancer when she was 45. She was Road. For more information, call
“Some people come out for three hours,
encouraged by her sister – a nurse – to 672-4600.
ravis Credit Union members and employees are
campaigns.
To help the Solano and Contra Costa Food Bank, credit
union employees, members and the general public are
encouraged to bring non-perishable food to all branches
through Jan. 31.
Through Dec. 23, credit union employees and members
can purchase and sign paper stockings for $1 each for the
Children’s Miracle Network Holiday Stocking Campaign.
Proceeds will go to UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento
and Oakland’s Children’s Hospital.
Employees are also collecting gifts for Christmas Wish
2008.
Travis Credit Union has branches at 1257 Willow Pass
Road and 5442 Ygnacio Valley Road in Concord. For more
information, contact Sherry Cordonnier at 707-469-1715.