By Roni Gehlke
Looking for a safe place for the kids to spend summer vacation? The city of Oakley has been making great advances in its recreational programs. This year it once again is offering its Summer Blaze Camp for kids ages 6 to 11.
The program runs two times during the summer. The first session begins Monday, running through June 26. The program then shuts down for a week and resumes from July 6 to July 17.
"We are setting it up like a traveling camp, going to different Oakley parks on different days," said Oakley parks and recreation coordinator Cindy Coehlo.
The program will run at three Oakley parks — Shady Oak Park, Freedom Basin and Novarina Park. Coehlo said each park has its own advantages.
On Mondays and Fridays, the camp will be hosted at Shady Oak Park, located behind Gehringer School at 257 Cedar Run Drive. Because the program consists of an afternoon playing in water, Shady Oak Park offers a great water fountain area and lots of grass to play on.
The Freedom Basin Park is adjacent to Freedom High School, which Coehlo says is a great location because the program will allow the kids to swim at Freedom's pool. "The admission cost for the swimming in the pool is included in the cost of the camp," she said.
Camp participants go to Freedom Basin Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The other nice thing about this park is it features a large open space of grass, which gives the kids plenty of room to run and play.
On Wednesdays, the camp will take place at Novarina Park, located behind the high school off Carpenter Road, at 100 Brown Road. Coehlo said this park is small but includes some shade, which will be important when the weather gets hotter during the summer.
Coehlo said the camp is a drop-off program, and although parents don't need to preregister, there is only limited space for 100 children. The cost of the program is $7 per day.
Five-day "punch cards" also are available for $30. When using the punch card, it isn't necessary to go five days in a row. It will be good throughout this year's camp season. The camp runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Parents are not expected to stay with their children through the program, but they are asked to fill out a sign-in sheet and provide an emergency number for the day.
Coehlo said the staff works to make the program fun for kids. The staff includes city employees, plus teens that are involved in the city's Junior Recreation Leadership program.
There are still a couple of volunteer slots available for this program, which is open to 13- to 16-year-olds. Friday is the deadline for sign-ups. Volunteers also are needed for the city's Fourth of July weekend celebrations, Coehlo said.
Summer Blaze offers games, crafts, swimming and water activities. For more details, check out the city's Web site at www.ci.oakley.ca.us or call 925-625-7041.
This blog is dedicated to articles that have run in the East Bay Times (East Contra Costa County, California), Brentwood News, Oakley News, Antioch News, Pittsburg News written by community columnist and correspondent, Roni Gehlke.
Friday, June 12, 2009
'Father of Modern Antioch' to be honored
In our "Neighbors" series, we give you a personal look at the people who are serving your community. If you would like to nominate someone for this column, contact Judy Prieve at 925-779-7178 or e-mail jprieve@bayareanewsgroup.com.
By Roni Gehlke
The California State University system will honor longtime Antioch businessman and philanthropist Leo Fontana with a Doctor of Humane Letters degree during commencement ceremonies on Saturday at the Concord Campus of Cal State East Bay.
"This award is a great surprise and I'm very humbled," Fontana, 85, said. "It is hard to accept when there are so many other people who did so much more."
Fontana, who is affectionately know as the "Father of Modern Antioch," is a Minnesota native who moved to Antioch one year before he was drafted into World War II. Like many others he came to California in the hope of finding work. His first job here was with Dow Chemical, but he was quickly drafted and had to leave. Luckily, he said, he received credit at his job with Dow for his time in the service and when he came home he had his job waiting for him.
By 1946 he was able to save enough money and opened Antioch Stationary Store in the downtown area. Later the name was changed to La Fontana Stationary Store.
"There wasn't a stationary store in Antioch; actually there wasn't much to Antioch at that time," he said. As a downtown business owner and resident of Antioch it was easy to see that the community needed a lot of improvements. Fontana explained that some things the city had before the war, such as a chamber of commerce, but afterward, it all needed to be rebuilt.
"Some things you do because you do it. You want to try to get things done for the community," he said. If asked about all the things he worked on over the years, Fontana wouldn't be able to tell.
"There were just so many things that came up and I did my best to help where needed," he explained.
Fontana was a member of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and a charter member of the Antioch Downtown Merchants Association. He served on the Antioch City Council and held the position of vice mayor for a term. He also worked on Antioch's Planning Commission for several years. He worked for the Antioch Lions Club, Boy Scouts and the Rotary Club.
When Highway 4 was built two miles from the downtown area and its merchants, Fontana and a partner purchased some property adjacent to the highway and built what is now referred to as Somersville Town Center. Originally it was call Delta Fair Center and later the name changed to County East Mall.
"I worked to start a lot of organizations that Antioch didn't have. Think of Antioch back then, what Oakley is going through today — a small town without many services and trying to build from scratch," he said.
Of his greatest achievements, Fontana says that helping to build a recreation department for Antioch has to be high on his list. "Around 1946 we started working to have playgrounds built and then we started Little League and Babe Ruth programs. It grew over the years to what it is today. A lot of things just grew and grew," he said.
Fontana said just looking at the Antioch Sport Legends displays at the Riverview Historical Society will show how much sports has meant to this area.
"What I'm really, really proud of is the Antioch Senior Center. It has turned into one of the greatest programs in Northern California," he said.
Fontana was the chairman of the recreation commission when he contacted the Antioch Woman's Club and asked members to work on an evening program for seniors.
At first junior members of the group would host a weekly game night. Later, the former John Muir School, which had been vacant for many years, served as the first Antioch Senior Center. When that downtown center gave out and the building the senior center is housed in today became available, Fontana worked to set it up to house the senior program.
Today Fontana still works with the Antioch Senior Center where he emcees their programs and occasionally cooks to raise money.
"As a native of Antioch, I, among many others, would never have been able to attend college if not for the encouragement, employment and mentoring provided by Leo Fontana," said Bob Linscheid, a trustee of the California State University system who also is president/CEO of The Linscheid Co. Inc. of Chico.
"He was responsible for the creation of Antioch's modern-day chamber of commerce, the regional transit organization, regional mall and locally owned bank. His leadership has benefited boards of many charitable organizations and other group, and he has served on the Antioch City Council, Antioch Planning Commission, and the Antioch Parks and Recreation Commission.
"His involvement in economic development of eastern Contra Costa County is nothing short of legendary. Any youth sports organization that started in the last six decades has Leo to thank for its development and success. And he continues to this day to support the redevelopment of this region," Linscheid said.
Recently Fontana created the Leo Fontana Family Foundation to continue his philanthropic pursuits while also supporting other community organizations during his retirement.
By Roni Gehlke
The California State University system will honor longtime Antioch businessman and philanthropist Leo Fontana with a Doctor of Humane Letters degree during commencement ceremonies on Saturday at the Concord Campus of Cal State East Bay.
"This award is a great surprise and I'm very humbled," Fontana, 85, said. "It is hard to accept when there are so many other people who did so much more."
Fontana, who is affectionately know as the "Father of Modern Antioch," is a Minnesota native who moved to Antioch one year before he was drafted into World War II. Like many others he came to California in the hope of finding work. His first job here was with Dow Chemical, but he was quickly drafted and had to leave. Luckily, he said, he received credit at his job with Dow for his time in the service and when he came home he had his job waiting for him.
By 1946 he was able to save enough money and opened Antioch Stationary Store in the downtown area. Later the name was changed to La Fontana Stationary Store.
"There wasn't a stationary store in Antioch; actually there wasn't much to Antioch at that time," he said. As a downtown business owner and resident of Antioch it was easy to see that the community needed a lot of improvements. Fontana explained that some things the city had before the war, such as a chamber of commerce, but afterward, it all needed to be rebuilt.
"Some things you do because you do it. You want to try to get things done for the community," he said. If asked about all the things he worked on over the years, Fontana wouldn't be able to tell.
"There were just so many things that came up and I did my best to help where needed," he explained.
Fontana was a member of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and a charter member of the Antioch Downtown Merchants Association. He served on the Antioch City Council and held the position of vice mayor for a term. He also worked on Antioch's Planning Commission for several years. He worked for the Antioch Lions Club, Boy Scouts and the Rotary Club.
When Highway 4 was built two miles from the downtown area and its merchants, Fontana and a partner purchased some property adjacent to the highway and built what is now referred to as Somersville Town Center. Originally it was call Delta Fair Center and later the name changed to County East Mall.
"I worked to start a lot of organizations that Antioch didn't have. Think of Antioch back then, what Oakley is going through today — a small town without many services and trying to build from scratch," he said.
Of his greatest achievements, Fontana says that helping to build a recreation department for Antioch has to be high on his list. "Around 1946 we started working to have playgrounds built and then we started Little League and Babe Ruth programs. It grew over the years to what it is today. A lot of things just grew and grew," he said.
Fontana said just looking at the Antioch Sport Legends displays at the Riverview Historical Society will show how much sports has meant to this area.
"What I'm really, really proud of is the Antioch Senior Center. It has turned into one of the greatest programs in Northern California," he said.
Fontana was the chairman of the recreation commission when he contacted the Antioch Woman's Club and asked members to work on an evening program for seniors.
At first junior members of the group would host a weekly game night. Later, the former John Muir School, which had been vacant for many years, served as the first Antioch Senior Center. When that downtown center gave out and the building the senior center is housed in today became available, Fontana worked to set it up to house the senior program.
Today Fontana still works with the Antioch Senior Center where he emcees their programs and occasionally cooks to raise money.
"As a native of Antioch, I, among many others, would never have been able to attend college if not for the encouragement, employment and mentoring provided by Leo Fontana," said Bob Linscheid, a trustee of the California State University system who also is president/CEO of The Linscheid Co. Inc. of Chico.
"He was responsible for the creation of Antioch's modern-day chamber of commerce, the regional transit organization, regional mall and locally owned bank. His leadership has benefited boards of many charitable organizations and other group, and he has served on the Antioch City Council, Antioch Planning Commission, and the Antioch Parks and Recreation Commission.
"His involvement in economic development of eastern Contra Costa County is nothing short of legendary. Any youth sports organization that started in the last six decades has Leo to thank for its development and success. And he continues to this day to support the redevelopment of this region," Linscheid said.
Recently Fontana created the Leo Fontana Family Foundation to continue his philanthropic pursuits while also supporting other community organizations during his retirement.
Business Spotlight: New Antioch care home offers many activities for seniors
By Roni Gehlke
Name of business: Brenda's Love for Seniors and Activities
Type of business: Residential care home for the elderly
Owners: Brenda Dickinson, licensee and administrator
Founded: Became licensed by the Department of Social Services in May 2009; Grand opening is today and Saturday.
Address: 3106 Tabora Drive, Antioch
Phone number: 925-783-4282
Hours: 24 hours/seven days a week
Number of employees: There will be one caregiver for every three residents. In addition, Dickinson
Brenda's Love for Seniors and Activities takes care of anyone from the frail elderly to people with dementia who require assistance with their activities of daily living. Services include any number of things, including bathing, cooking, dressing and toileting.
How did you get into the business: "I have been the director of the Life Enhancing Activity Program for the past 20 years," Dickinson said.
She said that the program was run by her and three activity professionals, who provide activities in approximately 50 care homes from Brentwood to San Ramon.
Best part about the business: "What excites me is to see over and over again the benefits that happen when the elderly are offered stimulating, challenging and meaningful activities and especially for those who have dementia," she said. "Most people with dementia lose their ability to initiate activity. It becomes very difficult for them to independently get something to do for themselves and as a consequence there can be a lack of stimulation."
Dickinson said she would train her caregivers to offer a variety of activities throughout the day so television is not their primary activity.
"Perhaps the resident can help the caregiver bake cookies, plant a flower in the accessible raised bed my husband built, listen to a sing-a-long that brings back memories, or play a fun game."
She said the best part of this business is to see people engaged in meaningful activities and the difference it makes in that moment.
"My care home is designed to enhance the lives of the elderly by meeting their overall needs, which includes opportunities for success and a feeling they have accomplished something that day."
Worst part about the business: "Of course, you get attached to the residents you are caring for and when they pass it is very difficult. However, I will have a hospice waiver so people can stay until the end of their life," Dickinson said.
Key to success: "Getting the word out that I am offering a unique and innovative care home for the elderly," she said.
Biggest misperception about the business: "People are skeptical because of what they have read or heard about elderly care. Most of the time, I see excellent service in board-and-care homes," she said.
Future plans: Dickinson said that she hopes she will have a successful care home and be able to open another. In the meantime, she will hold a grand opening for this one today and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on both days.
Name of business: Brenda's Love for Seniors and Activities
Type of business: Residential care home for the elderly
Owners: Brenda Dickinson, licensee and administrator
Founded: Became licensed by the Department of Social Services in May 2009; Grand opening is today and Saturday.
Address: 3106 Tabora Drive, Antioch
Phone number: 925-783-4282
Hours: 24 hours/seven days a week
Number of employees: There will be one caregiver for every three residents. In addition, Dickinson
Brenda's Love for Seniors and Activities takes care of anyone from the frail elderly to people with dementia who require assistance with their activities of daily living. Services include any number of things, including bathing, cooking, dressing and toileting.
How did you get into the business: "I have been the director of the Life Enhancing Activity Program for the past 20 years," Dickinson said.
She said that the program was run by her and three activity professionals, who provide activities in approximately 50 care homes from Brentwood to San Ramon.
Best part about the business: "What excites me is to see over and over again the benefits that happen when the elderly are offered stimulating, challenging and meaningful activities and especially for those who have dementia," she said. "Most people with dementia lose their ability to initiate activity. It becomes very difficult for them to independently get something to do for themselves and as a consequence there can be a lack of stimulation."
Dickinson said she would train her caregivers to offer a variety of activities throughout the day so television is not their primary activity.
"Perhaps the resident can help the caregiver bake cookies, plant a flower in the accessible raised bed my husband built, listen to a sing-a-long that brings back memories, or play a fun game."
She said the best part of this business is to see people engaged in meaningful activities and the difference it makes in that moment.
"My care home is designed to enhance the lives of the elderly by meeting their overall needs, which includes opportunities for success and a feeling they have accomplished something that day."
Worst part about the business: "Of course, you get attached to the residents you are caring for and when they pass it is very difficult. However, I will have a hospice waiver so people can stay until the end of their life," Dickinson said.
Key to success: "Getting the word out that I am offering a unique and innovative care home for the elderly," she said.
Biggest misperception about the business: "People are skeptical because of what they have read or heard about elderly care. Most of the time, I see excellent service in board-and-care homes," she said.
Future plans: Dickinson said that she hopes she will have a successful care home and be able to open another. In the meantime, she will hold a grand opening for this one today and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on both days.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Around Oakley: Plans in works for DuPont property
OVER THE PAST few years, there's been a lot of talk about the DuPont property and what a vital resource it is to the Oakley community. The main reason is that the property can house a substantial tax base, as well as quite a few jobs. The problem is that a project of this size takes a great deal of time and effort to complete.
The property's actual street address is Bridgehead Road, but it can be seen on Main Street from Bridgehead Road until just past Live Oak Road. DuPont started doing business in East County in 1955 when the company purchased about 552 acres. In 1956, the plant started manufacturing Freon refrigerants and tetraethyl lead, an antiknock compound for gasoline.
In 1962, a titanium dioxide plant was built, which started operations in 1963. Titanium dioxide is a white pigment compound used in paint and toothpaste. During its heyday, the DuPont plant employed almost 600 local people.
In the mid-1990s, plant operations stopped and the plant closed in 1998. In the past 10 years, DuPont officials have been working on cleaning up the damage the plant caused. They are working with state regulators to make sure all of the cleanup is completed.
Not all of the land is contaminated. As a matter of fact, the state has officially allowed DuPont to sell some of the property. Much of the vineyard area that surrounds the property was sold to Cline Cellars a few years after the plant's closure. For many years, Fred Cline had leased the property to grow grapes.
There is also property along Bridgehead Road that is ready for sale, as well as some areas within the property itself. Other areas will not be ready for sale for decades because the ground and ground water underneath the property are contaminated.
In the meantime, DuPont is able to lease the contaminated property to businesses that wish to build on top of the ground. Special measures must be taken to ensure the safety of the workers on the property, and DuPont makes sure that everyone is aware of that.
Over the years, there have been interested parties in the property. Currently, there is a power plant interested in a parcel on the property.
There is also talk starting about a project that might take up the remainder of the property.
This company is looking to build a research and development facility for biodiesel processing and storage. It is looking to work with green energy and investigating the idea of turning algae into an energy source. The City Council this week entered into an agreement with the company, Bay Area Bio Resources, to pursue the project.
All of this is still in the speculation stage, but at least some are willing to look at the site for use.
This land is very important to Oakley's future. The tax dollars it can bring to Oakley would be more than welcome; unfortunately, none of these things can be built tomorrow. As a matter of fact, don't start looking for anything until at least 2015 or later. We may not like it, but that is as long these things take.
The property's actual street address is Bridgehead Road, but it can be seen on Main Street from Bridgehead Road until just past Live Oak Road. DuPont started doing business in East County in 1955 when the company purchased about 552 acres. In 1956, the plant started manufacturing Freon refrigerants and tetraethyl lead, an antiknock compound for gasoline.
In 1962, a titanium dioxide plant was built, which started operations in 1963. Titanium dioxide is a white pigment compound used in paint and toothpaste. During its heyday, the DuPont plant employed almost 600 local people.
In the mid-1990s, plant operations stopped and the plant closed in 1998. In the past 10 years, DuPont officials have been working on cleaning up the damage the plant caused. They are working with state regulators to make sure all of the cleanup is completed.
Not all of the land is contaminated. As a matter of fact, the state has officially allowed DuPont to sell some of the property. Much of the vineyard area that surrounds the property was sold to Cline Cellars a few years after the plant's closure. For many years, Fred Cline had leased the property to grow grapes.
There is also property along Bridgehead Road that is ready for sale, as well as some areas within the property itself. Other areas will not be ready for sale for decades because the ground and ground water underneath the property are contaminated.
In the meantime, DuPont is able to lease the contaminated property to businesses that wish to build on top of the ground. Special measures must be taken to ensure the safety of the workers on the property, and DuPont makes sure that everyone is aware of that.
Over the years, there have been interested parties in the property. Currently, there is a power plant interested in a parcel on the property.
There is also talk starting about a project that might take up the remainder of the property.
This company is looking to build a research and development facility for biodiesel processing and storage. It is looking to work with green energy and investigating the idea of turning algae into an energy source. The City Council this week entered into an agreement with the company, Bay Area Bio Resources, to pursue the project.
All of this is still in the speculation stage, but at least some are willing to look at the site for use.
This land is very important to Oakley's future. The tax dollars it can bring to Oakley would be more than welcome; unfortunately, none of these things can be built tomorrow. As a matter of fact, don't start looking for anything until at least 2015 or later. We may not like it, but that is as long these things take.
Around Oakley: Change has come slowly to new city
DO YOU FEEL like we live in a "city" yet? That question was asked of me a few days ago by a lifelong Oakley resident.
Oakley this year is celebrating its 10th anniversary as a city. The incorporation effort took years, and residents celebrated the day they finally gained independence from Contra Costa County. However, just because Oakley residents voted for incorporation doesn't mean they believe they have achieved the independence they were searching for.
Or perhaps my good friend was asking not how it feels, but more to the point, are we better off now than before the vote? While everyone who worked for cityhood would want to say the answer is an emphatic yes, the unfortunate truth is that if a vote were held today, the outcome might be closer to 50-50.
I blame instant gratification for those who have been swayed that maybe cityhood wasn't such a good idea after all. After 10 years, people are looking for more significant changes than we've seen. Frankly, a drive down Oakley streets today compared with 10 years ago won't show much change.
Oh sure, there is a nice new City Hall, a new restaurant, two new small shopping centers and more homes, but all in all it is much the same.
For those who were expecting big change by now, there is much disappointment. Many of the businesses that were here in 1999 are now gone and have not been fully replaced. The hope of bringing more commerce to Oakley seems to have been quashed either by the poor economy or a preference by companies to locate near other thriving business communities, like Brentwood and Antioch.
The housing market is actually a positive. Although some would rather not see an increase at all, Oakley is one of the few communities in the county to have experienced steady growth over the past decade. Even in the past year, Oakley has increased its population by 1,300 people.
That isn't to say Oakley hasn't had its share of foreclosures, just that the market didn't have that far to drop because housing values were never as high as some other county communities. But does Oakley need more homes?
How do you really measure a city? Is it simply that now we have a City Council and a city staff to make their own decisions, or is it a feeling that we have the independence to choose our own destiny?
Those residents who didn't want Wal-Mart in Oakley certainly had a chance to yell long and loud at a city entity. Did that make us feel like we were a city?
How about the low-income apartments? No one wanted those, but when it came down to it, Oakley is required to have a percentage of low-income housing by law. No independence there.
There is one thing for residents to remember. Brentwood and Antioch have had decades of independence compared with Oakley. They had the ability to plan, make their own mistakes, and develop their cities as they saw fit.
Give Oakley some time. It may take 30 years before residents really feel as if cityhood was the right choice.
Oakley this year is celebrating its 10th anniversary as a city. The incorporation effort took years, and residents celebrated the day they finally gained independence from Contra Costa County. However, just because Oakley residents voted for incorporation doesn't mean they believe they have achieved the independence they were searching for.
Or perhaps my good friend was asking not how it feels, but more to the point, are we better off now than before the vote? While everyone who worked for cityhood would want to say the answer is an emphatic yes, the unfortunate truth is that if a vote were held today, the outcome might be closer to 50-50.
I blame instant gratification for those who have been swayed that maybe cityhood wasn't such a good idea after all. After 10 years, people are looking for more significant changes than we've seen. Frankly, a drive down Oakley streets today compared with 10 years ago won't show much change.
Oh sure, there is a nice new City Hall, a new restaurant, two new small shopping centers and more homes, but all in all it is much the same.
For those who were expecting big change by now, there is much disappointment. Many of the businesses that were here in 1999 are now gone and have not been fully replaced. The hope of bringing more commerce to Oakley seems to have been quashed either by the poor economy or a preference by companies to locate near other thriving business communities, like Brentwood and Antioch.
The housing market is actually a positive. Although some would rather not see an increase at all, Oakley is one of the few communities in the county to have experienced steady growth over the past decade. Even in the past year, Oakley has increased its population by 1,300 people.
That isn't to say Oakley hasn't had its share of foreclosures, just that the market didn't have that far to drop because housing values were never as high as some other county communities. But does Oakley need more homes?
How do you really measure a city? Is it simply that now we have a City Council and a city staff to make their own decisions, or is it a feeling that we have the independence to choose our own destiny?
Those residents who didn't want Wal-Mart in Oakley certainly had a chance to yell long and loud at a city entity. Did that make us feel like we were a city?
How about the low-income apartments? No one wanted those, but when it came down to it, Oakley is required to have a percentage of low-income housing by law. No independence there.
There is one thing for residents to remember. Brentwood and Antioch have had decades of independence compared with Oakley. They had the ability to plan, make their own mistakes, and develop their cities as they saw fit.
Give Oakley some time. It may take 30 years before residents really feel as if cityhood was the right choice.
Freshman year laid foundation for Freedom valedictorian
What does it take to become valedictorian of your high school? If you ask Freedom High School's Amber Basore, you have to start from the beginning, and by beginning she means freshman year.
As part of her volunteer service at Freedom, Basore worked on the Link Crew. One of the Link Crew's responsibilities was to help incoming ninth graders get acquainted with the school.
"I always tell freshmen that this first year is the most important of all the years in high school," Basore said. "If they don't get motivated and focus on their studies this year, it may not happen at all."
That was the course Basore took herself to become Freedom's valedictorian. The valedictorian is the student with the highest grade point average among graduating seniors. Basore wasn't sure exactly what her final GPA would be, but school officials believe it will be over 4.3.
Generally, a student who receives a 4.0 GPA has A's in most of his or her regular course studies. Basore said to earn a GPA higher than 4.0, it was necessary to take a few Advanced Placement courses and receive high scores in those classes, as well.
Basore and her family moved to Oakley when she was in the fourth grade. She first attended Gehringer Elementary School, and then moved on to Delta Vista Middle School before attending Freedom. While at Freedom, she participated in the California Scholarship Federation (CSF), Link Crew, French Club, and played three years on Freedom's tennis team.
While the high school does offer specialized AP courses for engineering, child development and the sciences, Basore said she didn't really take any of the specialized programs. In fact, even when she moves on to UCLA this fall, she has no idea exactly what she wants to study.
"I'm going to explore many things to begin with and see what I like," she said.
Basore said she chose UCLA because she likes the big-city atmosphere. She did receive a few small scholarships but said they didn't factor into her decision about what school she would attend.
"I know that with the economy the way it is today, I am going to need a degree to be successful, but what will bring me that success I don't know yet," she said.
Basore said she's sure that after UCLA she will attend a graduate school, but she is still working out the particulars. "I just know now that the more education you have behind you, the better off you are," she said.
For now, Basore said she is working on her valedictorian speech. She isn't sure exactly what she'll say yet, but she will wish her fellow classmates well in whatever they do in the future and hopes that they all find success.
As part of her volunteer service at Freedom, Basore worked on the Link Crew. One of the Link Crew's responsibilities was to help incoming ninth graders get acquainted with the school.
"I always tell freshmen that this first year is the most important of all the years in high school," Basore said. "If they don't get motivated and focus on their studies this year, it may not happen at all."
That was the course Basore took herself to become Freedom's valedictorian. The valedictorian is the student with the highest grade point average among graduating seniors. Basore wasn't sure exactly what her final GPA would be, but school officials believe it will be over 4.3.
Generally, a student who receives a 4.0 GPA has A's in most of his or her regular course studies. Basore said to earn a GPA higher than 4.0, it was necessary to take a few Advanced Placement courses and receive high scores in those classes, as well.
Basore and her family moved to Oakley when she was in the fourth grade. She first attended Gehringer Elementary School, and then moved on to Delta Vista Middle School before attending Freedom. While at Freedom, she participated in the California Scholarship Federation (CSF), Link Crew, French Club, and played three years on Freedom's tennis team.
While the high school does offer specialized AP courses for engineering, child development and the sciences, Basore said she didn't really take any of the specialized programs. In fact, even when she moves on to UCLA this fall, she has no idea exactly what she wants to study.
"I'm going to explore many things to begin with and see what I like," she said.
Basore said she chose UCLA because she likes the big-city atmosphere. She did receive a few small scholarships but said they didn't factor into her decision about what school she would attend.
"I know that with the economy the way it is today, I am going to need a degree to be successful, but what will bring me that success I don't know yet," she said.
Basore said she's sure that after UCLA she will attend a graduate school, but she is still working out the particulars. "I just know now that the more education you have behind you, the better off you are," she said.
For now, Basore said she is working on her valedictorian speech. She isn't sure exactly what she'll say yet, but she will wish her fellow classmates well in whatever they do in the future and hopes that they all find success.
Brentwood's Heritage High valedictorian will study medicine
Heritage High School's Jacob Peterson will not only have the honor of being this year's valedictorian, but he also is one of group of students who will graduate after spending all four years at the high school. It will be the second graduation ceremony for the Brentwood high school.
Peterson became this year's valedictorian after attaining the highest grade point average in his class. When he graduates Peterson believes that he will have at least a 4.2 GPA. His high GPA has helped him to receive a full-tuition scholarship from Brigham Young University in Utah.
"I'm really excited about having the chance to go to Brigham Young University," Peterson said.
As a sophomore at Heritage, Peterson was required to take a biology class and found that it was something he really enjoyed. "The AP biology class got me thinking that this was what I wanted to do with my life," he said. "I really loved the class."
After that Peterson took as many as of the biology and science-related courses that he could at the high school. Many of the them were considered Advanced Placement, courses that are offered to students who are preparing for college. The classes are a little harder and students can earn college credit for taking some of them.
While at Heritage, Peterson was involved with the National Honor Energy Club. The group worked on an energy awareness program for the high school.
"We worked on ways for the school to conserve energy by turning off lights and also worked on a grant to have solar panels installed at the school," he said.
The panels will not be installed until after Peterson graduates, but he is still happy to have been part of the group that was able to get the money necessary to install them.
Peterson also was an active member of his high school sports teams, participating in JV baseball for two years and spending four years on the water polo team. While at home Peterson used his baseball skills and volunteered as an assistant coach for one of Brentwood's Pony leagues.
Peterson also is active with his church youth leadership program, helping in the community through various programs. In addition, he has taken piano lessons for the past 10 years and loves all sorts of music.
Peterson said if he had to pick the teacher who has been the most supportive it would be Dave Fogelstrom. Fogelstrom was his English teacher for three years while at Heritage.
Peterson said that moving away from his family and community to go to Brigham Young University will be a new challenge he looks forward too. He has family in Utah by not close to the university, so he will live in a dormitory when he starts school in the fall. He hopes to study medicine through the university's undergraduate program and some day become a doctor.
Peterson became this year's valedictorian after attaining the highest grade point average in his class. When he graduates Peterson believes that he will have at least a 4.2 GPA. His high GPA has helped him to receive a full-tuition scholarship from Brigham Young University in Utah.
"I'm really excited about having the chance to go to Brigham Young University," Peterson said.
As a sophomore at Heritage, Peterson was required to take a biology class and found that it was something he really enjoyed. "The AP biology class got me thinking that this was what I wanted to do with my life," he said. "I really loved the class."
After that Peterson took as many as of the biology and science-related courses that he could at the high school. Many of the them were considered Advanced Placement, courses that are offered to students who are preparing for college. The classes are a little harder and students can earn college credit for taking some of them.
While at Heritage, Peterson was involved with the National Honor Energy Club. The group worked on an energy awareness program for the high school.
"We worked on ways for the school to conserve energy by turning off lights and also worked on a grant to have solar panels installed at the school," he said.
The panels will not be installed until after Peterson graduates, but he is still happy to have been part of the group that was able to get the money necessary to install them.
Peterson also was an active member of his high school sports teams, participating in JV baseball for two years and spending four years on the water polo team. While at home Peterson used his baseball skills and volunteered as an assistant coach for one of Brentwood's Pony leagues.
Peterson also is active with his church youth leadership program, helping in the community through various programs. In addition, he has taken piano lessons for the past 10 years and loves all sorts of music.
Peterson said if he had to pick the teacher who has been the most supportive it would be Dave Fogelstrom. Fogelstrom was his English teacher for three years while at Heritage.
Peterson said that moving away from his family and community to go to Brigham Young University will be a new challenge he looks forward too. He has family in Utah by not close to the university, so he will live in a dormitory when he starts school in the fall. He hopes to study medicine through the university's undergraduate program and some day become a doctor.
Antioch Music Academy offers classes in piano, guitar and more
Name of Business: Antioch Music Academy
Type of business: Music school/instruction
Owner: Justin Garns
Founded: January 2005
Address: 416 W. Second St., Antioch
Phone number: 925-757 0121
Hours: Monday through Friday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; by appointment
Number of Instructors: five
Products and services: Antioch Music Academy offers private music instruction and theory lessons for all ages. They also provide music clinics, Jam Nights, showcase concerts, recording sessions and special events. They have lessons in guitar, bass guitar, drums, piano and vocals. First lessons are free. Gift certificates are available.
How did you get into the business: "I picked up my first guitar when I was 9 years old and since then I have always had a love for music," Garns said. After studying at the Guitar Institute of Technology in Hollywood, he came back to the Bay Area and began teaching.
After many years of teaching and performing he decided to open his own music school in Antioch.
Best part about the business: "To be able to inspire the students and pass on the gift of music," he said.
Worst part about the business: "To be honest there is no negative aspects to this business. It is a blessing to be able to do what you love for a living," Garns said.
Key to success: "At my school the students are the most important thing to me and it is their success that continues to inspire me to keep my school going," he said.
Garns said he promotes quarterly showcase concerts in which the students participate to show off their hard work and determination.
"This allows their peers, parents, families and friends to see them in concert," he said. "Our last showcase concert event in April was at the El Campanil Theatre in downtown Antioch with Frankie G as our emcee."
Biggest misperception about the business: Many people think that they can take up a musical instrument and start playing and performing immediately, and in some cases that is true; however, it takes a lot of hard work and studying music and theory to advance to the level of performing," he said.
Future plans: Garns said he is hoping to expand its recording studio, offer more music clinics and increase teaching staff. His hope is to also offer music production classes, internships and continue student showcase concerts.
Type of business: Music school/instruction
Owner: Justin Garns
Founded: January 2005
Address: 416 W. Second St., Antioch
Phone number: 925-757 0121
Hours: Monday through Friday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; by appointment
Number of Instructors: five
Products and services: Antioch Music Academy offers private music instruction and theory lessons for all ages. They also provide music clinics, Jam Nights, showcase concerts, recording sessions and special events. They have lessons in guitar, bass guitar, drums, piano and vocals. First lessons are free. Gift certificates are available.
How did you get into the business: "I picked up my first guitar when I was 9 years old and since then I have always had a love for music," Garns said. After studying at the Guitar Institute of Technology in Hollywood, he came back to the Bay Area and began teaching.
After many years of teaching and performing he decided to open his own music school in Antioch.
Best part about the business: "To be able to inspire the students and pass on the gift of music," he said.
Worst part about the business: "To be honest there is no negative aspects to this business. It is a blessing to be able to do what you love for a living," Garns said.
Key to success: "At my school the students are the most important thing to me and it is their success that continues to inspire me to keep my school going," he said.
Garns said he promotes quarterly showcase concerts in which the students participate to show off their hard work and determination.
"This allows their peers, parents, families and friends to see them in concert," he said. "Our last showcase concert event in April was at the El Campanil Theatre in downtown Antioch with Frankie G as our emcee."
Biggest misperception about the business: Many people think that they can take up a musical instrument and start playing and performing immediately, and in some cases that is true; however, it takes a lot of hard work and studying music and theory to advance to the level of performing," he said.
Future plans: Garns said he is hoping to expand its recording studio, offer more music clinics and increase teaching staff. His hope is to also offer music production classes, internships and continue student showcase concerts.
Focus on Church: St. Ignatius of Antioch spruces up church in honor of 30th anniversary
Congregation: St. Ignatius Parish of Antioch
Address: 3351 Contra Loma Blvd., Antioch
Web site: www.stignatiusofantioch.org
Established: An Episcopal Degree was signed in 1979, establishing boundaries of the new church within the Oakland Diocese. The church on Contra Loma Boulevard opened in 1987.
Religious affiliation: Roman Catholic Diocese Oakland
Services: Weekday Eucharist Monday through Friday 8 a.m.; Saturday Vigil Eucharist 5 p.m.; Sunday Eucharist: 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Faith community: 1,050 member families for a total of 3,500 members
Spiritual leaders: The Rev. Robert Kenneth Rien, ordained priest 1974 assigned as Parochial Administrator January 2006; The Rev. Thomas Peter Bonacci, ordained priest 1972; Gary Hack and Jerry Waters, deacons; Burt Smith, Faith Formation director; Don Pearson, music director; Lorraine Lohmeier, pastoral secretary; and Beverly Iacona, financial secretary.
Motto: "We live to be a reflection of the life of living Christ" is the church's mission statement.
"The Oakland Dioceses has been changing their mission and we recently revised ours to be in harmony with the Dioceses and supporting their mission," said Rein, who recently celebrated his 35th anniversary as a priest.
Community outreach: St. Ignatius adopted St. Peter Martyr School, a private Catholicschool in Pittsburg. The church provides financial support. The church also supports organizations like Habitat for Humanity by building houses. It also builds at least one house a year in Mexico.
Currently it is supporting the Cancer Relay for Life program by providing a team of the church's members.
The church also supports various organizations like Winter Nights Shelter, and provides a Baby Shower for Mother's Day for Birth Right of Brentwood and offers several food drives and holiday support for local families.
In honor of the St. Ignatius' 30th anniversary the church is giving a gift to the Bay Area Crisis Nursery in Clayton.
"We are really excited about this. This really forms right under our mission of helping others and working together. Sister Ann does such great work," Rein said.
New look around the church: Over the past year the church has made several improvements. One of the biggest projects has been to add new stained glass windows throughout the building. The 12 new windows were designed by church member Sherry Morris. A church family donated each window. Rein said that the church is also sporting a new icon. The new painting was hand-painted by 80-year-old Sister Ann Davidson. The Icon is an addition to five other icon pieces that decorate the church. One of the icons is of the St. Ignatius of Antioch. Rein said that there are no statues in the church. During the redesign he followed the decor of the first priest who added the icons instead of the statues seen in other churches.
"It might have had something to do with the fact that this was the theme of what was around when St. Ignatius of Antioch was around in the first century," Rein said.
Youth outreach: Rein said that the church works with children through high school age. Currently St. Ignatius doesn't have a youth minister, but Rein said that they hope to work on that in the near future. At this time they recommend Antioch's Holy Rosary Church, which provides an academic program.
Family support: St. Ignatius has a faith education program that is run by Burt Smith. The group works with families and then the parents and children split off and attend their own classes.
Ministries: One of the biggest ministries through St. Ignatius is its Music Ministry. The program added a new director last December, Don Pearson. When Pearson came to the church, Rodgers Organs, a large manufacturer, upgraded the church's organ from a 37-spot organ to an 85-spot design. In March the church offered its first concert with the organ and more than 250 attended the event.
"We want to have more events like this and invite all the other churches to attend," Rein said.
"We may disagree with some of our beliefs, but music is the one area we all have in common."
Future activities: The church holds many activities each year and is looking for more ways to bring people together. It also plans a Parish Fest, Beer and Brats Fest in the fall, a St. Nicholas Day in December.
On June 6 the church will host a 30th anniversary celebration that will include music and activities.
Related Contra Costa Times stories to this church.
May 20:
Arrests made in Antioch church burglaries
May 19:
Burglars strike again at Antioch church
May 17:
Antioch Catholic Church the target of second burglary in recent years
Address: 3351 Contra Loma Blvd., Antioch
Web site: www.stignatiusofantioch.org
Established: An Episcopal Degree was signed in 1979, establishing boundaries of the new church within the Oakland Diocese. The church on Contra Loma Boulevard opened in 1987.
Religious affiliation: Roman Catholic Diocese Oakland
Services: Weekday Eucharist Monday through Friday 8 a.m.; Saturday Vigil Eucharist 5 p.m.; Sunday Eucharist: 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Faith community: 1,050 member families for a total of 3,500 members
Spiritual leaders: The Rev. Robert Kenneth Rien, ordained priest 1974 assigned as Parochial Administrator January 2006; The Rev. Thomas Peter Bonacci, ordained priest 1972; Gary Hack and Jerry Waters, deacons; Burt Smith, Faith Formation director; Don Pearson, music director; Lorraine Lohmeier, pastoral secretary; and Beverly Iacona, financial secretary.
Motto: "We live to be a reflection of the life of living Christ" is the church's mission statement.
"The Oakland Dioceses has been changing their mission and we recently revised ours to be in harmony with the Dioceses and supporting their mission," said Rein, who recently celebrated his 35th anniversary as a priest.
Community outreach: St. Ignatius adopted St. Peter Martyr School, a private Catholicschool in Pittsburg. The church provides financial support. The church also supports organizations like Habitat for Humanity by building houses. It also builds at least one house a year in Mexico.
Currently it is supporting the Cancer Relay for Life program by providing a team of the church's members.
The church also supports various organizations like Winter Nights Shelter, and provides a Baby Shower for Mother's Day for Birth Right of Brentwood and offers several food drives and holiday support for local families.
In honor of the St. Ignatius' 30th anniversary the church is giving a gift to the Bay Area Crisis Nursery in Clayton.
"We are really excited about this. This really forms right under our mission of helping others and working together. Sister Ann does such great work," Rein said.
New look around the church: Over the past year the church has made several improvements. One of the biggest projects has been to add new stained glass windows throughout the building. The 12 new windows were designed by church member Sherry Morris. A church family donated each window. Rein said that the church is also sporting a new icon. The new painting was hand-painted by 80-year-old Sister Ann Davidson. The Icon is an addition to five other icon pieces that decorate the church. One of the icons is of the St. Ignatius of Antioch. Rein said that there are no statues in the church. During the redesign he followed the decor of the first priest who added the icons instead of the statues seen in other churches.
"It might have had something to do with the fact that this was the theme of what was around when St. Ignatius of Antioch was around in the first century," Rein said.
Youth outreach: Rein said that the church works with children through high school age. Currently St. Ignatius doesn't have a youth minister, but Rein said that they hope to work on that in the near future. At this time they recommend Antioch's Holy Rosary Church, which provides an academic program.
Family support: St. Ignatius has a faith education program that is run by Burt Smith. The group works with families and then the parents and children split off and attend their own classes.
Ministries: One of the biggest ministries through St. Ignatius is its Music Ministry. The program added a new director last December, Don Pearson. When Pearson came to the church, Rodgers Organs, a large manufacturer, upgraded the church's organ from a 37-spot organ to an 85-spot design. In March the church offered its first concert with the organ and more than 250 attended the event.
"We want to have more events like this and invite all the other churches to attend," Rein said.
"We may disagree with some of our beliefs, but music is the one area we all have in common."
Future activities: The church holds many activities each year and is looking for more ways to bring people together. It also plans a Parish Fest, Beer and Brats Fest in the fall, a St. Nicholas Day in December.
On June 6 the church will host a 30th anniversary celebration that will include music and activities.
Related Contra Costa Times stories to this church.
May 20:
Arrests made in Antioch church burglaries
May 19:
Burglars strike again at Antioch church
May 17:
Antioch Catholic Church the target of second burglary in recent years
Naturalist enjoys sharing outdoor lore
In our "Neighbors" series, we give you a personal look at the people who are serving your community. If you would like to nominate someone for this column, contact Judy Prieve at 925-779-7178 or e-mail jprieve@bayareanewsgroup.com.
Name: Mike Moran
Occupation: Moran has worked for the East Bay Regional Park District for 15 years. He is a naturalist and docent coordinator stationed at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch.
Proudest Achievement at EBRPD: In 2005 the district started allowing the public to tour the Vasco Caves. "It was a really big project and took a lot to accomplish, but it was worth it," Moran said. "The native American paintings are just wonderful."
Moran said that it took a lot of hard work to get it open.
He also said he is very proud of the work that the district as a whole has done with adding programs to East County. When he started working in East County, EBRPD was new to the area and there was little in the way of programs here.
"Over the years we have built in a lot of hikes, tours and school activities," he said.
What is going on in the future for Moran at EBRPD: This past week, Moran has been working on Oakley Science Week. For the first time the program added a hike of the Big Break Trail, which took place Saturday. Those interested in taking a similar hike should check the EBRPD schedule, as it is something that Moran and other naturalists do on a regular basis.
"A lot of people don't realize what a little gem is right outside their back door. There are raptors, birds of prey, beaver, coyotes, and we are right on the waterfront, which offers even more," he said.
On May 25, Moran will lead a four-mile hike in Round Valley. The Brentwood hike features a steep climb with plenty of rest stops for walkers, which is part of the reason the hike will take four hours. Once at the top hikers will be able to see Los Vaqueros Reservoir, Morgan Territory and on a clear day all the way to the Central Sierra.
Moran said he is also happy to be part of a special program, starting May 28, called Raptor Baseline. He will work with the public to study local raptors' patterns in the area.
"We have golden eagles, hawks and even some endangered birds in the area. We want to find out how many we can see, when they come out, that kind of thing," Moran said. "We have this incredible resource here. We want to enjoy it and share the information."
Groups and organizations he is involved with through EBRPD: Moran said one of the best organizations in the area is the Friends of the Marsh Creek Watershed.
"They are a phenomenal group and really movers and shakers. I have a lot of respect for the work they do on the many different projects," he said.
Delta Science Center is another group that works hard to preserve the environment in the area, Moran said. "This group is made up of so many different people from the community. They also represent a lot of groups who are working to bring the Science Center to the area."
Moran said the district also works with a lot of home schooling groups and that they have some amazing programs set up for the kids. One of Moran's projects includes the Docent program for Black Diamond Mines. In the fall he will be working on a new training program for the organization.
Resources for EBRPD and the natural area around East County: Moran said that he really didn't know of many books available about East County wildlife specifically. He said that Arcadia Press has published two good books, one on the Black Diamond Mines and the other on the Delta region. Both books are available on the Internet, and at local bookstores and the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve.
He also said there is a great map with information at www.savemountdiablo.org and that the EBRPD also has a Web site with a wealth of information, plus a schedule of all of its programs at www.ebparks.org.
— Roni Gehlke
Name: Mike Moran
Occupation: Moran has worked for the East Bay Regional Park District for 15 years. He is a naturalist and docent coordinator stationed at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch.
Proudest Achievement at EBRPD: In 2005 the district started allowing the public to tour the Vasco Caves. "It was a really big project and took a lot to accomplish, but it was worth it," Moran said. "The native American paintings are just wonderful."
Moran said that it took a lot of hard work to get it open.
He also said he is very proud of the work that the district as a whole has done with adding programs to East County. When he started working in East County, EBRPD was new to the area and there was little in the way of programs here.
"Over the years we have built in a lot of hikes, tours and school activities," he said.
What is going on in the future for Moran at EBRPD: This past week, Moran has been working on Oakley Science Week. For the first time the program added a hike of the Big Break Trail, which took place Saturday. Those interested in taking a similar hike should check the EBRPD schedule, as it is something that Moran and other naturalists do on a regular basis.
"A lot of people don't realize what a little gem is right outside their back door. There are raptors, birds of prey, beaver, coyotes, and we are right on the waterfront, which offers even more," he said.
On May 25, Moran will lead a four-mile hike in Round Valley. The Brentwood hike features a steep climb with plenty of rest stops for walkers, which is part of the reason the hike will take four hours. Once at the top hikers will be able to see Los Vaqueros Reservoir, Morgan Territory and on a clear day all the way to the Central Sierra.
Moran said he is also happy to be part of a special program, starting May 28, called Raptor Baseline. He will work with the public to study local raptors' patterns in the area.
"We have golden eagles, hawks and even some endangered birds in the area. We want to find out how many we can see, when they come out, that kind of thing," Moran said. "We have this incredible resource here. We want to enjoy it and share the information."
Groups and organizations he is involved with through EBRPD: Moran said one of the best organizations in the area is the Friends of the Marsh Creek Watershed.
"They are a phenomenal group and really movers and shakers. I have a lot of respect for the work they do on the many different projects," he said.
Delta Science Center is another group that works hard to preserve the environment in the area, Moran said. "This group is made up of so many different people from the community. They also represent a lot of groups who are working to bring the Science Center to the area."
Moran said the district also works with a lot of home schooling groups and that they have some amazing programs set up for the kids. One of Moran's projects includes the Docent program for Black Diamond Mines. In the fall he will be working on a new training program for the organization.
Resources for EBRPD and the natural area around East County: Moran said that he really didn't know of many books available about East County wildlife specifically. He said that Arcadia Press has published two good books, one on the Black Diamond Mines and the other on the Delta region. Both books are available on the Internet, and at local bookstores and the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve.
He also said there is a great map with information at www.savemountdiablo.org and that the EBRPD also has a Web site with a wealth of information, plus a schedule of all of its programs at www.ebparks.org.
— Roni Gehlke
Business Spotlight: Doggie Place offers day care, boarding, grooming
Name of Business: Stone's K9 "The Doggie Place"
Type of business: Dog boarding, day care, grooming and training
Owners: Carol and Dan Stone
Founded: 2005
Address: 1275 Delta Road, Knightsen
Phone number: 925-679-1081
Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Early drop-offs/late pickups can be arranged.)
Number of employees: five family members
Products and services: Stone's K-9 provides boarding, day care, grooming and training services for dogs. They also provide services for special needs dogs at no extra charge.
"We strive to create a home-like atmosphere for your pet to stay in while visiting. Our main concern is to make your family member feel like they are also on vacation," Carol Stone said.
"We want them to stay as stress-free as possible, by changing their routine as little as possible and making sure they are comfortable, happy, have a healthy and safe experience."
How did you get into the business: "We breed and raise show dogs and several of our friends starting asking if we could look after their dogs while on vacation," Stone said.
She explained that the business came about by word of mouth, making her small kennel grow into what it is today. "Most of our business is by referrals from clients and veterinary offices in our area," she said.
Best part about the business: "Being able to provide a safe and happy place for owners to leave their dogs for a couple of hours to several weeks at a time," Stone said.
Worst part about the business: "Having to say the kennel is full and we have no more room," Stone said.
Stone said that the dogs that board with them are part of their extended family and she hates to say no.
Key to success: "Loving what you do," she said. "It comes across not only to our clients but to their dogs."
Biggest misperception about the business: Stone said there really aren't any misperceptions about the business and that most people who have pets understand the services they provide.
Future plans: Stone's K-9 will be expending and adding additional play areas and kennels.
"Rescue is a big future goal of ours as we would like to do more at the community level by holding food drives and continuing to help house dogs when possible for rescue groups and veterinary hospitals in the area," Stone said.
Type of business: Dog boarding, day care, grooming and training
Owners: Carol and Dan Stone
Founded: 2005
Address: 1275 Delta Road, Knightsen
Phone number: 925-679-1081
Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Early drop-offs/late pickups can be arranged.)
Number of employees: five family members
Products and services: Stone's K-9 provides boarding, day care, grooming and training services for dogs. They also provide services for special needs dogs at no extra charge.
"We strive to create a home-like atmosphere for your pet to stay in while visiting. Our main concern is to make your family member feel like they are also on vacation," Carol Stone said.
"We want them to stay as stress-free as possible, by changing their routine as little as possible and making sure they are comfortable, happy, have a healthy and safe experience."
How did you get into the business: "We breed and raise show dogs and several of our friends starting asking if we could look after their dogs while on vacation," Stone said.
She explained that the business came about by word of mouth, making her small kennel grow into what it is today. "Most of our business is by referrals from clients and veterinary offices in our area," she said.
Best part about the business: "Being able to provide a safe and happy place for owners to leave their dogs for a couple of hours to several weeks at a time," Stone said.
Worst part about the business: "Having to say the kennel is full and we have no more room," Stone said.
Stone said that the dogs that board with them are part of their extended family and she hates to say no.
Key to success: "Loving what you do," she said. "It comes across not only to our clients but to their dogs."
Biggest misperception about the business: Stone said there really aren't any misperceptions about the business and that most people who have pets understand the services they provide.
Future plans: Stone's K-9 will be expending and adding additional play areas and kennels.
"Rescue is a big future goal of ours as we would like to do more at the community level by holding food drives and continuing to help house dogs when possible for rescue groups and veterinary hospitals in the area," Stone said.
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