By Roni Gehlke
BIRD WATCHING or "birding" is a widely practiced recreational sport in the Delta region. Ornithologists say there are anywhere from 200 to 300 species of birds around the area at any given time.
About 10 million birds pass through the Delta every year. That includes our own backyards here in Oakley. While there are some serious bird watchers in town, you don't have to be one of them to take a few minutes to watch and listen to the birds in abundance enjoying the warm summer climate.
"This is a wonderful time of year to see some rare birds out in Oakley," said Mike Moran, naturalist for the East Bay Regional Park District. "Even though it's July, we are already seeing some of the autumn birds migrating in."
The Big Break and Marsh Creek trails run almost parallel to the San Joaquin River throughout Oakley. My husband and I recently took a walk along the Big Break Trail that runs next to the Ironhouse Sanitary District property.
The left side of the trail area is filled with brambles of wild blackberries on their way to ripening. There are also some sweeping views of the wetland areas, including marsh-type plants and trees where the birds like to hide and nest. It isn't uncommon to see finches, crows, jays and other common birds flying from one cattail to the other.
On the other side of the trail are the sanitary district's ponds. The water area is usually a great habitat to see geese, ducks and gulls enjoying the sunny weather.
We also were able to see another bird that was unfamiliar to me. It looked very much like a variety of gull. Notice I didn't say "seagull." According to Moran, there isn't actually a seagull in California.
All of the gulls in our area have different names. For instance, most of us are probably familiar with the California Gull. It has a yellow bill with a black ring, yellow legs, brown eyes and a more rounded head.
The bird I saw out on the island in one of the ISD ponds looked similar in size and coloring except it had a black cap on its head and a large, bright orange bill.
According to Moran, this bird is called a Caspian Tern. Recently, it has become common throughout the waterways of Contra Costa County.
The Caspian Tern is largest in the tern family of birds. Interestingly, the bird can live up to 26 years. Moran said the park district has been following the Caspian Tern's migration into the area.
So far, it has seen the water birds in colonies in a variety of ages and stages in their life span, but it has not seen the birds nesting here. The birds have been seen at the fledgling stages flying about, and even mating.
For those who don't want to leave their neighborhoods in search of birds, there are plenty right outside your own homes. Moran said Oakley is a hot spot for several varieties of hawks and other raptors.
On many mornings, you can see four or five hawks doing their search for food in the area. It isn't uncommon to hear them sending off their own little bird song before they can be seen.
The park district is working on counting all of the hawks and other raptors in the area. On Aug. 27, the organization will be looking for volunteers interested in helping count those birds located in the Oakley area along the trail and beyond. Check the district's Web site, www.ebparks.org, for more information.
Speaking of Web sites, the park district is now on Twitter, Facebook and a couple of the other social networking sites. Moran said the feeds are coming from the main office in Oakland, and the local guys are just in the talking stages about putting their own information out there.
Those interested in keeping informed with the park district should check out www.ebparks.org and follow the instructions on social networking.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
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.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Business Spotlight: Antioch hair salon strives to be a cut above
Name of Business: Wild Orchids The Salon
Type of Business: Hair salon
Owner: Lori and Steve Lopez
Founded: 1999
Address: 1328 Sunset Drive, Antioch
Phone number: 925-756-0666
Web site: www.wildorchidsthesalon.com
Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday
Number of Employees: 23
Products: and Services: Wild Orchids offers advance haircutting and hair coloring in a variety of designer styles. Haircutting stylists also specialize in straightening, waving, hair repair and Great Length hair extensions. They are available for weddings, proms and special occasions, specializing in Up-dos and makeup.
How did you get into the business: Owner Lori Lopez started in the business 32 years ago, at the age of 23, with her first salon "Final Touch."
"We were supposed to move away so we decided to close (Final Touch) down and move, but we ended up staying here in Antioch," Lopez said. "In 1999, I made the best choice of my life by creating a place that I could hire people with the same beliefs that I have."
At the same time she became an international platform artist for Tigi-Bedhead, an international professional salon products and design company. Lopez said that through Tigi-Bedhead she was able to travel and train for 15 years. She traveled extensively through the United States and Canada.
"I do believe that's what brought us to the level that we are today," she said.
Best Part about the Business: Lopez said that Wild Orchid's has assembled one of the most talented and exciting teams available. "We believe not only in education but continued education," Lopez said. "We recognize that our industry is ever changing, and we believe that it is imperative not only to keep with the latest trends, but to remain ahead of the latest in styles, color, cuts and other industry trends."
Worst part about the business: Lopez said she couldn't think of any. She loves the works she does.
Key to Success: "Education and customer service," Lopez said. "Our front desk receptionist is what really helps our clients get in and be happy."
She also said that while having a group filled with team players is important, the biggest key to their continued success is loving what they do and being the most creative they can be.
Biggest misperception about the business: "Biggest misperception is that young hairstylists don't know what they are doing," Lopez said.
She explains that is not true. Some of the best members of her team she has hired right out of beauty school. She then has them work in her own extensive training program, where they work with either her or her daughter, Tami Clark, whom she believes is the best colorist available.
It will take these stylists between four and five years before they become senior stylists. "So, yes, they are young, but they take classes every week and go to Santa Monica to advance their education," Lopez said.
Future Plans: "Go Green," she said. She also wants to maintain the salon's success and start a haircutting and hair color academy where young and old stylists can learn the current trends.
— Roni Gehlke
Type of Business: Hair salon
Owner: Lori and Steve Lopez
Founded: 1999
Address: 1328 Sunset Drive, Antioch
Phone number: 925-756-0666
Web site: www.wildorchidsthesalon.com
Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday
Number of Employees: 23
Products: and Services: Wild Orchids offers advance haircutting and hair coloring in a variety of designer styles. Haircutting stylists also specialize in straightening, waving, hair repair and Great Length hair extensions. They are available for weddings, proms and special occasions, specializing in Up-dos and makeup.
How did you get into the business: Owner Lori Lopez started in the business 32 years ago, at the age of 23, with her first salon "Final Touch."
"We were supposed to move away so we decided to close (Final Touch) down and move, but we ended up staying here in Antioch," Lopez said. "In 1999, I made the best choice of my life by creating a place that I could hire people with the same beliefs that I have."
At the same time she became an international platform artist for Tigi-Bedhead, an international professional salon products and design company. Lopez said that through Tigi-Bedhead she was able to travel and train for 15 years. She traveled extensively through the United States and Canada.
"I do believe that's what brought us to the level that we are today," she said.
Best Part about the Business: Lopez said that Wild Orchid's has assembled one of the most talented and exciting teams available. "We believe not only in education but continued education," Lopez said. "We recognize that our industry is ever changing, and we believe that it is imperative not only to keep with the latest trends, but to remain ahead of the latest in styles, color, cuts and other industry trends."
Worst part about the business: Lopez said she couldn't think of any. She loves the works she does.
Key to Success: "Education and customer service," Lopez said. "Our front desk receptionist is what really helps our clients get in and be happy."
She also said that while having a group filled with team players is important, the biggest key to their continued success is loving what they do and being the most creative they can be.
Biggest misperception about the business: "Biggest misperception is that young hairstylists don't know what they are doing," Lopez said.
She explains that is not true. Some of the best members of her team she has hired right out of beauty school. She then has them work in her own extensive training program, where they work with either her or her daughter, Tami Clark, whom she believes is the best colorist available.
It will take these stylists between four and five years before they become senior stylists. "So, yes, they are young, but they take classes every week and go to Santa Monica to advance their education," Lopez said.
Future Plans: "Go Green," she said. She also wants to maintain the salon's success and start a haircutting and hair color academy where young and old stylists can learn the current trends.
— Roni Gehlke
Around Oakley: Maybe it's time for Oakley to do some social networking
SHOULD THE CITY of Oakley try its hand at social networking to bring business to town? Bringing new business to Oakley is a top concern of city officials, especially since funds from other venues, such as state and county resources, are drying up. Tax dollars from successful businesses can make all the difference in the world, just look at Antioch and Brentwood. Social networking is the latest craze for business networking, but can it help cities grow?
Recently a small town in the Midwest, similar in size to Oakley, started a campaign to attract business franchises by using the latest in social networking success tools, Twitter. Twitter is a service by which individuals and businesses social network by "following" each others "Tweets." Essentially the city would set up a Twitter page and then go online and find all the businesses it wants to attract to Oakley and then encourage them to follow their "Tweets" about the city.
In the case of the Midwest city, they were finding it difficult to get any response at all from large franchise chains through sources such as trade shows and query letters. Their city was just too small to draw interest, like the nearby bigger cities. They were being passed up by those towns that were already successful with other franchise businesses. Sound familiar?
As the article pointed out, the idea of social networking is still new, and there are still some pitfalls. As a way to draw attention to their city the officials began "following" the franchises they wanted to come to their town and only about 20 percent "followed" back. Still, though, all it takes are a couple to decided to come and others will follow.
The way Twitter works is that each "Tweet" consists of 140 characters, spaces included. That would mean that they would have to get their message across very quickly. An example of a "Tweet" might be: "Calif. young, up-and-coming community with 35,000+ pop, offers plenty of potential for just the right business. www.ci.oakley.ca.us." This "Tweet" leaves 10 characters leftover.
In the end the question for Oakley officials is what can it hurt? Twitter's service is free, and it only takes a few minutes to have it set up and putting up daily "Tweets." At this point Oakley isn't having much luck drawing business. The economy may be causing some problems, but businesses weren't jumping in to take their chances on coming to town before. Despite the worries of a continued sagging economy, businesses are still opening in Antioch and Brentwood.
Just a quick activity note: Friends of Oakley is hosting a fundraiser to help Oakley schools. The event will take place July 18 in Cypress Square shopping center in front of Mike's Beef 'n' Brew. The event is titled "So You Think You're Hot Stuff! Chili Cook-off and BBQ." The organizers are looking for all you chili cookers out there to join in on the fun and bring your favorite recipes. Entry fee is $100, and the prize is a 50/50 split with the teachers and other prizes given at the event. Deadline to enter the cook-off is tomorrow.
After hearing of the current budget cuts at Oakley's schools, Friends of Oakley decided to help out the teachers and the students by adding to the money the teachers receive to stock their classrooms with supplies needed for student instruction in all curricular areas for the entire year. This money will be used to provide pencils, paper, art supplies, staples, tape, markers, etc. for as many classrooms as the fundraiser can help.
The July 18 event also will feature a dinner of barbecue tri-tip, chicken, hot dogs and beans/chili. Tickets are $15 or two for $25; meals fro children are $8 each or two for $15. All barbecue proceeds go to supporting Oakley teachers. For entry forms and more information on how to get tickets check out www.friendsofoakley.com.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
Recently a small town in the Midwest, similar in size to Oakley, started a campaign to attract business franchises by using the latest in social networking success tools, Twitter. Twitter is a service by which individuals and businesses social network by "following" each others "Tweets." Essentially the city would set up a Twitter page and then go online and find all the businesses it wants to attract to Oakley and then encourage them to follow their "Tweets" about the city.
In the case of the Midwest city, they were finding it difficult to get any response at all from large franchise chains through sources such as trade shows and query letters. Their city was just too small to draw interest, like the nearby bigger cities. They were being passed up by those towns that were already successful with other franchise businesses. Sound familiar?
As the article pointed out, the idea of social networking is still new, and there are still some pitfalls. As a way to draw attention to their city the officials began "following" the franchises they wanted to come to their town and only about 20 percent "followed" back. Still, though, all it takes are a couple to decided to come and others will follow.
The way Twitter works is that each "Tweet" consists of 140 characters, spaces included. That would mean that they would have to get their message across very quickly. An example of a "Tweet" might be: "Calif. young, up-and-coming community with 35,000+ pop, offers plenty of potential for just the right business. www.ci.oakley.ca.us." This "Tweet" leaves 10 characters leftover.
In the end the question for Oakley officials is what can it hurt? Twitter's service is free, and it only takes a few minutes to have it set up and putting up daily "Tweets." At this point Oakley isn't having much luck drawing business. The economy may be causing some problems, but businesses weren't jumping in to take their chances on coming to town before. Despite the worries of a continued sagging economy, businesses are still opening in Antioch and Brentwood.
Just a quick activity note: Friends of Oakley is hosting a fundraiser to help Oakley schools. The event will take place July 18 in Cypress Square shopping center in front of Mike's Beef 'n' Brew. The event is titled "So You Think You're Hot Stuff! Chili Cook-off and BBQ." The organizers are looking for all you chili cookers out there to join in on the fun and bring your favorite recipes. Entry fee is $100, and the prize is a 50/50 split with the teachers and other prizes given at the event. Deadline to enter the cook-off is tomorrow.
After hearing of the current budget cuts at Oakley's schools, Friends of Oakley decided to help out the teachers and the students by adding to the money the teachers receive to stock their classrooms with supplies needed for student instruction in all curricular areas for the entire year. This money will be used to provide pencils, paper, art supplies, staples, tape, markers, etc. for as many classrooms as the fundraiser can help.
The July 18 event also will feature a dinner of barbecue tri-tip, chicken, hot dogs and beans/chili. Tickets are $15 or two for $25; meals fro children are $8 each or two for $15. All barbecue proceeds go to supporting Oakley teachers. For entry forms and more information on how to get tickets check out www.friendsofoakley.com.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Roni Gehlke: Local pizza chain in new TV ad campaign
ROUND TABLE PIZZA insiders reported this week that Oakley's newly located restaurant was the filming site for a statewide television commercial. The restaurant closed for one day last week while the crew came out to film pizza preparation and cooking, as well as shots around the restaurant.
The West Coast pizza chain, whose corporate office is in Concord, decided to film its latest commercial at the Oakley restaurant because it was one of the newest and nicest of its 500 locations. For Oakley residents who haven't had a chance to stop by the new restaurant it is really a treat. The restaurant moved to the corner of Carol Lane and Main Street, across from the Cypress Square (Raley's) shopping center, a couple of months ago.
For more than 30 years, Round Table Pizza had been on the corner of Main Street and Vintage Parkway. Its move was set before the change in the economy, and another restaurant was going to rebuild in its place. That project was put on hold, but Round Table Pizza continued with its relocation and got a much better deal in the process. The new building, next to Starbucks, is 3,702 square feet and seats 136 people, which includes a glass enclosed banquet room that seats 40.
They also have a window area where customers can watch the restaurant workers hand toss their pizza and add all of the ingredients. Since moving the management has added several new promotions to really bring out a family atmosphere for the restaurant. One such feature is a Sunday Family Night that invites kids to come and cook their own pizza. The "Kids Are Cookin'" takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and offers a $5 special where kids get to make their own pizza. They also get to go home with a chef hat and apron. The program is open for kids 10 and under.
Insiders aren't allowed to tell what kinds of surprises will be found in the new commercial, but employees are pretty excited that they have a site that they can be proud of. Look for the commercial to be on local network and cable channels in the next few months.
BUSINESS LICENSES DUE: The city of Oakley is reminding businesses that annual business licenses are due June 30. Renewals were sent late last month to all of the current business license owners. Since the bid to increase license fees in November of 2008 didn't pass the voters, fees are still the same as they have been for the past several years.
Also, remember that those who are conducting business out of homes within the Oakley city limits are still required to have business licenses. Many people who work out of their homes don't realize that business licenses are still needed. For example, even those who sell cosmetics or have Internet businesses may still need a license. It is important to check with the city officials to be sure.
Home occupation permits are also needed for home businesses. Forms can be obtained at the City Office at 3231 Main St. or printed directly from the city's Web site at www.oakleyinfo.com.
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: Get ready to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Oakley as a city. The city will be kicking off its celebration on July 4 at Freedom High School. This will be the first of four celebrations during this fiscal year. The plan is to have this first celebration, then a Harvest Festival on Oct. 24 at City Hall. The next dates planned are a Christmas tree lighting in December and in May 2010 there will be a special activity at a different Oakley park every weekend as part of Passport to Parks Month.
The city will offer a special commemorative lapel pin that will be available all year for residents who want to remember this milestone. Pins will be available at the July Fourth celebration for $2. They will probably only be available until they run out, so make sure to get one early.
The West Coast pizza chain, whose corporate office is in Concord, decided to film its latest commercial at the Oakley restaurant because it was one of the newest and nicest of its 500 locations. For Oakley residents who haven't had a chance to stop by the new restaurant it is really a treat. The restaurant moved to the corner of Carol Lane and Main Street, across from the Cypress Square (Raley's) shopping center, a couple of months ago.
For more than 30 years, Round Table Pizza had been on the corner of Main Street and Vintage Parkway. Its move was set before the change in the economy, and another restaurant was going to rebuild in its place. That project was put on hold, but Round Table Pizza continued with its relocation and got a much better deal in the process. The new building, next to Starbucks, is 3,702 square feet and seats 136 people, which includes a glass enclosed banquet room that seats 40.
They also have a window area where customers can watch the restaurant workers hand toss their pizza and add all of the ingredients. Since moving the management has added several new promotions to really bring out a family atmosphere for the restaurant. One such feature is a Sunday Family Night that invites kids to come and cook their own pizza. The "Kids Are Cookin'" takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and offers a $5 special where kids get to make their own pizza. They also get to go home with a chef hat and apron. The program is open for kids 10 and under.
Insiders aren't allowed to tell what kinds of surprises will be found in the new commercial, but employees are pretty excited that they have a site that they can be proud of. Look for the commercial to be on local network and cable channels in the next few months.
BUSINESS LICENSES DUE: The city of Oakley is reminding businesses that annual business licenses are due June 30. Renewals were sent late last month to all of the current business license owners. Since the bid to increase license fees in November of 2008 didn't pass the voters, fees are still the same as they have been for the past several years.
Also, remember that those who are conducting business out of homes within the Oakley city limits are still required to have business licenses. Many people who work out of their homes don't realize that business licenses are still needed. For example, even those who sell cosmetics or have Internet businesses may still need a license. It is important to check with the city officials to be sure.
Home occupation permits are also needed for home businesses. Forms can be obtained at the City Office at 3231 Main St. or printed directly from the city's Web site at www.oakleyinfo.com.
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: Get ready to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Oakley as a city. The city will be kicking off its celebration on July 4 at Freedom High School. This will be the first of four celebrations during this fiscal year. The plan is to have this first celebration, then a Harvest Festival on Oct. 24 at City Hall. The next dates planned are a Christmas tree lighting in December and in May 2010 there will be a special activity at a different Oakley park every weekend as part of Passport to Parks Month.
The city will offer a special commemorative lapel pin that will be available all year for residents who want to remember this milestone. Pins will be available at the July Fourth celebration for $2. They will probably only be available until they run out, so make sure to get one early.
New shop offers variety of coffee, gelato
Name of Business: Coffee & Gelato
Type of business: coffee/gelato shop
Owners: Yelena Tolstov
Founded: June 2009
Address: 2170 Main St., Suite B, Oakley
Phone number: 925-679-2477
Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday
Number of employees: four
Products and services: Coffee & Gelato offers five different labels of coffee. Each label comes in various flavors. They also carry cafe latte, mocha, cappuccino, espresso, hot chocolate, Americano coffee, tea blends and iced coffee and tea. The shop also carries 12 different flavors of gelato, pastries, muffins and smoothies. It offers drive-through services, takeout and eat-in. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
How did you get into the business?: Before Tolstov moved to this country she owned a similar business in Russia. When she moved to the United States it took her a little time to be able to open her own business, but she eventually found a good location and added some items to her menu that she had not had at her previous shop.
Best part about the business: "To make people happy so that they tell their friends and they come in," she said.
Worst part about the business: Tolstov said that she loves doing this kind of business, which is why she worked so hard to open a place like the one she had before. She can't think of anything that she would call worse or bad about the business.
Key to success: "Having pride in what you do and working hard for success," Tolstov said. She also said that she makes sure that she has a good product and the items that people want to purchase. If the customers want different flavors she is willing to listen to them and bring in something different.
Biggest misperception about the business: "People look at the small cups of gelato and think they are so small," she said.
She explains that gelato is a heavy dessert and not like ice cream. She said three ounces of gelato are equivalent to about five ounces of ice cream.
"Many people here do not know what gelato is because they haven't had it before," she said. "It is very new to this area, but it is very good."
Future plans: In the future, Tolstov wants to bring in live music for the customers to enjoy. She also wants to invite clubs to come in and have their meetings at Coffee Gelato.
— Roni Gehlke
Type of business: coffee/gelato shop
Owners: Yelena Tolstov
Founded: June 2009
Address: 2170 Main St., Suite B, Oakley
Phone number: 925-679-2477
Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday
Number of employees: four
Products and services: Coffee & Gelato offers five different labels of coffee. Each label comes in various flavors. They also carry cafe latte, mocha, cappuccino, espresso, hot chocolate, Americano coffee, tea blends and iced coffee and tea. The shop also carries 12 different flavors of gelato, pastries, muffins and smoothies. It offers drive-through services, takeout and eat-in. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
How did you get into the business?: Before Tolstov moved to this country she owned a similar business in Russia. When she moved to the United States it took her a little time to be able to open her own business, but she eventually found a good location and added some items to her menu that she had not had at her previous shop.
Best part about the business: "To make people happy so that they tell their friends and they come in," she said.
Worst part about the business: Tolstov said that she loves doing this kind of business, which is why she worked so hard to open a place like the one she had before. She can't think of anything that she would call worse or bad about the business.
Key to success: "Having pride in what you do and working hard for success," Tolstov said. She also said that she makes sure that she has a good product and the items that people want to purchase. If the customers want different flavors she is willing to listen to them and bring in something different.
Biggest misperception about the business: "People look at the small cups of gelato and think they are so small," she said.
She explains that gelato is a heavy dessert and not like ice cream. She said three ounces of gelato are equivalent to about five ounces of ice cream.
"Many people here do not know what gelato is because they haven't had it before," she said. "It is very new to this area, but it is very good."
Future plans: In the future, Tolstov wants to bring in live music for the customers to enjoy. She also wants to invite clubs to come in and have their meetings at Coffee Gelato.
— Roni Gehlke
Antioch's James McNeil releases his first science fiction novel
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.
As a child James McNeil was interested in science fiction television shows and comics, but never dreamed that one day he would be writing his own science fiction novel.
Somewhere in the back of his mind he had thought that he would like to write a book, but he had been busy most of his life working and raising his family. Last month he released his first novel, "The Journey."
"My line of work didn't go along with being a writer," he said. "But after I retired I started thinking about it again and decided to give it a try."
For most of his life, McNeil worked as a professional mobile and stationary equipment operator for road landscaping.
"Besides that, my wife and I were busy raising our family," he said.
A few years back an idea for a science fiction novel came to him and he wrote down some notes, but he put it away while he finished working out the rest of his obligations to his job. After retiring he pulled out the notes and started writing.
"I think the story is pretty original," he said. "The idea didn't come to me because of something I read or saw in a movie."
The novel is about a man named Henry who loses his memory and sets out to find out who is he. In the process of finding out that he is, he discovers the important things in life.
"I would say the underlining story is about the importance of family and the journey this man takes that shows him a whole new outlook on life," McNeil said.
McNeil says his novel is filled with adventure, action, suspense, drama, fantasy, science fiction and even a little bit of romance.
McNeil said that he has learned a lot through the process. "I'll probably do a lot of things different the next time around," he said.
Wanting to move his newfound career along quickly, McNeil decided to self-publish this book through an online publisher called iUniverse. The online publishing company works with writers of various styles of books by offering a printing on-demand service and e-book services.
The publishing company offers little in the way of promotional services and leaves it up to the individual author to decide how much promotion to provide for the book.
McNeil has been working to promote his book through online bookstores such as Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com.
McNeil is currently working on a sequel to "The Journey."
"I'm hoping to expand on the lead character's journey and see where it takes him."
He isn't sure how long it will take him to complete the second book or get it marketed. So far, McNeil says, he is getting good feedback from the readers on his book.
As a child James McNeil was interested in science fiction television shows and comics, but never dreamed that one day he would be writing his own science fiction novel.
Somewhere in the back of his mind he had thought that he would like to write a book, but he had been busy most of his life working and raising his family. Last month he released his first novel, "The Journey."
"My line of work didn't go along with being a writer," he said. "But after I retired I started thinking about it again and decided to give it a try."
For most of his life, McNeil worked as a professional mobile and stationary equipment operator for road landscaping.
"Besides that, my wife and I were busy raising our family," he said.
A few years back an idea for a science fiction novel came to him and he wrote down some notes, but he put it away while he finished working out the rest of his obligations to his job. After retiring he pulled out the notes and started writing.
"I think the story is pretty original," he said. "The idea didn't come to me because of something I read or saw in a movie."
The novel is about a man named Henry who loses his memory and sets out to find out who is he. In the process of finding out that he is, he discovers the important things in life.
"I would say the underlining story is about the importance of family and the journey this man takes that shows him a whole new outlook on life," McNeil said.
McNeil says his novel is filled with adventure, action, suspense, drama, fantasy, science fiction and even a little bit of romance.
McNeil said that he has learned a lot through the process. "I'll probably do a lot of things different the next time around," he said.
Wanting to move his newfound career along quickly, McNeil decided to self-publish this book through an online publisher called iUniverse. The online publishing company works with writers of various styles of books by offering a printing on-demand service and e-book services.
The publishing company offers little in the way of promotional services and leaves it up to the individual author to decide how much promotion to provide for the book.
McNeil has been working to promote his book through online bookstores such as Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com.
McNeil is currently working on a sequel to "The Journey."
"I'm hoping to expand on the lead character's journey and see where it takes him."
He isn't sure how long it will take him to complete the second book or get it marketed. So far, McNeil says, he is getting good feedback from the readers on his book.
Hobby blossomed into embroidery business
Name of Business: Oak Tree Embroidery and Awards
Type of business: embroidery
Owners: Jan Calahan
Founded: Opened as a home business in 2000; moved to a store front business in 2004; moved to new location February 2009
Address: 2049 Main St., Oakley
Phone number: 925-625-8733
Hours: Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday and evenings by appointment
Number of employees: two
Products and services: Oak Tree Embroidery is a full-service contract embroidery business with a full array of wearables to choose from. It offers design and setup of logos, production of embroidery on garments, as well as the art digitizing needed to transfer art to embroidery. Embroidery services are available for personal, professional, office, corporate, school and team use. Embroidery can be added to just about anything, including uniforms, hats, blankets and memorabilia.
Other services include custom trophies and plaques, promotional items and the popular custom rhinestones or "bling" items.
How did you get into the business: Calahan started her business because she enjoyed sewing and had a home embroidery machine. She attended a fair and saw a large custom embroidery machine and "fell in love."
"From there on it grew," Calahan said.
She began working with local sporting teams and decided to move her business to downtown Oakley for more exposure. Recently she moved into the Cypress Square shopping center near Raley's and added the trophies and plaque engraving to the business.
"It was just a natural transition — a service my customers use on a regular basis — and why not just do it all in one location," she said.
Best part about the business: "Smiles on the faces of the people when they see the finished product," Calahan said.
She also said that it gives her pleasure to work in Oakley where she can work with the kids and the sports teams in her community.
Worst part about the business: "Whenever you have you have a small business it is hard to have enough hours in the day and family time suffers," she said.
Key to success: "Quality and personalized service has to be the bottom line," Calahan said. "People buy from people. Customers need to know that you think they are important."
She also said that it is important to keep up with current trends, which is why she spends so much time attending trade shows and reading material that relates to her industry.
Biggest misperception about the business: "We don't do arbor work," she said. "We get a lot of calls from people who see our name and assume we know how to cut trees. We don't."
Although they can send items out for alterations they do not provide it as an in-house service.
Future plans: Calahan said she hopes to expand more into the gifts, bridal and baby markets. She also is working on expanding the promotional products she offers and promoting the trophy services she offers.
— Roni Gehlke
Type of business: embroidery
Owners: Jan Calahan
Founded: Opened as a home business in 2000; moved to a store front business in 2004; moved to new location February 2009
Address: 2049 Main St., Oakley
Phone number: 925-625-8733
Hours: Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday and evenings by appointment
Number of employees: two
Products and services: Oak Tree Embroidery is a full-service contract embroidery business with a full array of wearables to choose from. It offers design and setup of logos, production of embroidery on garments, as well as the art digitizing needed to transfer art to embroidery. Embroidery services are available for personal, professional, office, corporate, school and team use. Embroidery can be added to just about anything, including uniforms, hats, blankets and memorabilia.
Other services include custom trophies and plaques, promotional items and the popular custom rhinestones or "bling" items.
How did you get into the business: Calahan started her business because she enjoyed sewing and had a home embroidery machine. She attended a fair and saw a large custom embroidery machine and "fell in love."
"From there on it grew," Calahan said.
She began working with local sporting teams and decided to move her business to downtown Oakley for more exposure. Recently she moved into the Cypress Square shopping center near Raley's and added the trophies and plaque engraving to the business.
"It was just a natural transition — a service my customers use on a regular basis — and why not just do it all in one location," she said.
Best part about the business: "Smiles on the faces of the people when they see the finished product," Calahan said.
She also said that it gives her pleasure to work in Oakley where she can work with the kids and the sports teams in her community.
Worst part about the business: "Whenever you have you have a small business it is hard to have enough hours in the day and family time suffers," she said.
Key to success: "Quality and personalized service has to be the bottom line," Calahan said. "People buy from people. Customers need to know that you think they are important."
She also said that it is important to keep up with current trends, which is why she spends so much time attending trade shows and reading material that relates to her industry.
Biggest misperception about the business: "We don't do arbor work," she said. "We get a lot of calls from people who see our name and assume we know how to cut trees. We don't."
Although they can send items out for alterations they do not provide it as an in-house service.
Future plans: Calahan said she hopes to expand more into the gifts, bridal and baby markets. She also is working on expanding the promotional products she offers and promoting the trophy services she offers.
— Roni Gehlke
Business Spotlight: New Antioch care home offers many activities for seniors
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.
— Roni Gehlke
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.
— Roni Gehlke
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)