By Roni Gehlke
I WOULDN'T SAY I am the most recycling-minded person in the community, but I do try to do my part. Lately I've been a little confused because the things that I have always thought were recyclable have been remaining in my little white bin long after the garbage company comes to pick it up.
I had thought the problem was just mine, until I happen to peek in my neighbor's bins early on garbage day last week and realized they still had many of the same things left behind as well.
That sent me on a trek to Oakley Disposal to make sure I was doing the right thing while recycling.
According to the receptionist, I was, so it will remain a mystery why my recyclables have been remaining in the bin. However, that doesn't mean that is the case for everyone.
It is easily understandable why some people might not recycle properly. Those new to the area might be recycling under the rules of their former community. Some communities, such as Brentwood and Antioch, allow one bin for all recyclables.
Oakley Disposal said we can do the same here, except the drivers are used to looking for the white and blue bins, so for now it might be a good idea to keep using the bins provided by the garbage company.
In the meantime, the blue bin is pretty straightforward. It is simply for paper waste such as newspapers, colored and white paper, magazines and cardboard 24 inches or smaller.
The white bin most commonly takes plastic, glass and aluminum. It is also takes tin cans, shampoo bottles, bleach and detergent containers.
Be sure to check for the No. 2 stamped on the bottom of colored containers. Soft drink bottles with the numbers one through seven are all recyclable.
Also remember to remove all caps and lids and make sure there is nothing left inside the plastic containers.
On a completely different note, a couple of weeks ago I went along with the 200 million other people in the world and started a Facebook account.
My idea was to open the channels of communication with other Oakley and East County residents to share information and ideas.
Not like this is really a novel concept. It is reported that more than 100 million people log onto Facebook a day to check in with their friends, family and neighbors.
For those who aren't familiar with Facebook, the site allows people to set up what they call a profile page. Members are able to post quick comments, notes or blog type comments, as well as exchange Web links and photos.
Over the past couple of weeks I've revisited old acquaintances, made some new contacts, received a few requests for stories, heard about local events that I hadn't heard anywhere else and even exchanged a recipe of two.
My coverage base for the newspaper is primarily Oakley for this column, but then I also write other features throughout the East County.
More importantly, I've always been a social butterfly, as my sisters constantly call me. I enjoy spending time with my neighbors and learning about the communities around me and now Facebook makes that all the more possible.
I am open to finding networking "friends," as Facebook calls them, throughout East County.
So far I've shared information about current events, Web sites with information on our area and stories and tidbits of information of local concern sent to me from others.
I've also started to post pictures from throughout East County.
Those who are Facebook members are welcome to "friend" me at www.facebook.com/oakleynow.
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.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Business Spotlight: Brentwood studio offers ballroom, swing, Latin, belly dance and more
By Roni Gehlke
Name of business: Red Door Dance Studio and Cozette's Dancing
Type of business: Dancing and fitness
Owners: Cozette Hileman and Toni Todd
Founded: February 2009
Address: 817 First St., Brentwood
Phone number: 925-516-3667
Web site: reddoordance.com
Hours: varies
Number of employees: two
Products and services: Cozette Hileman runs Cozette's Dancing, which features lessons in ballroom, Latin, swing and country line dancing.
Earlier this year Hileman partnered with Toni "Thalia" Todd, a local belly dance instructor, and together the women expanded the business to call it the Red Door Dance Studio. Together their studio offers various styles of dance and fitness, including ballroom, Latin and swing, belly dance, Sassy Pants Belly Dance Workout, hip hop, zumba, as well as yoga. They also recently added country line dancing.
Hileman has a Saturday Dance Party once a month as well as a workshop and Line Dance Party.
"Dancing in historic Brentwood is within a short driving range instead of a one- to two-hour drive," she said. "One Saturday a month, residents can have dinner in Brentwood and then walk to The Red Door Dance Studio for some dancing. Some of my clients call it a date night."
How did you get into the business: "I learned to dance jazz, tap and ballet at the age of 6. My mother danced most of her life and always encouraged my sister and I to dance," Hileman said. "When I was in the sixth grade I won a waltz contest and knew I had fallen in love with the beauty of structured dancing."
Years later as a student Hileman joined The Fred Astair Dance Studio and became educated in ballroom, Latin and swing dancing.
"I couldn't get enough of dance. I was taking private lessons as well as group lessons four times a week. I excelled fast and wanted to compete," she said.
After five years of competing in American and international dance styles, Hileman decided to become a dance instructor. She attended the Pick School of Dance in San Francisco and worked under two champions, Rhona Pick and Gene Jennings. She learned to teach the different styles of dance such as the waltz, fox trot, tango as well as the East and West Coast Swing and more.
She moved to Brentwood in 2001 and opened another dance studio, specializing in teaching couples are preparing their wedding or anniversary dance.
Best part about the business: "Seeing my clients excel," Hileman said.
Worst part about the business?: "Giving up," she said.
Key to success: "Loving what I do," Hileman said. She believes in giving 100 percent and making it fun.
Biggest misperception about the business: "People believing they have two left feet," Hileman said. "Dancing is about having fun and can be taught."
Future plans: "My goal is to keep the public of all ages interested in dancing," Hileman said. "It is very beneficial to learn to dance for your own joy as well as weddings, anniversary's, cruises, high school reunions, etc."
Name of business: Red Door Dance Studio and Cozette's Dancing
Type of business: Dancing and fitness
Owners: Cozette Hileman and Toni Todd
Founded: February 2009
Address: 817 First St., Brentwood
Phone number: 925-516-3667
Web site: reddoordance.com
Hours: varies
Number of employees: two
Products and services: Cozette Hileman runs Cozette's Dancing, which features lessons in ballroom, Latin, swing and country line dancing.
Earlier this year Hileman partnered with Toni "Thalia" Todd, a local belly dance instructor, and together the women expanded the business to call it the Red Door Dance Studio. Together their studio offers various styles of dance and fitness, including ballroom, Latin and swing, belly dance, Sassy Pants Belly Dance Workout, hip hop, zumba, as well as yoga. They also recently added country line dancing.
Hileman has a Saturday Dance Party once a month as well as a workshop and Line Dance Party.
"Dancing in historic Brentwood is within a short driving range instead of a one- to two-hour drive," she said. "One Saturday a month, residents can have dinner in Brentwood and then walk to The Red Door Dance Studio for some dancing. Some of my clients call it a date night."
How did you get into the business: "I learned to dance jazz, tap and ballet at the age of 6. My mother danced most of her life and always encouraged my sister and I to dance," Hileman said. "When I was in the sixth grade I won a waltz contest and knew I had fallen in love with the beauty of structured dancing."
Years later as a student Hileman joined The Fred Astair Dance Studio and became educated in ballroom, Latin and swing dancing.
"I couldn't get enough of dance. I was taking private lessons as well as group lessons four times a week. I excelled fast and wanted to compete," she said.
After five years of competing in American and international dance styles, Hileman decided to become a dance instructor. She attended the Pick School of Dance in San Francisco and worked under two champions, Rhona Pick and Gene Jennings. She learned to teach the different styles of dance such as the waltz, fox trot, tango as well as the East and West Coast Swing and more.
She moved to Brentwood in 2001 and opened another dance studio, specializing in teaching couples are preparing their wedding or anniversary dance.
Best part about the business: "Seeing my clients excel," Hileman said.
Worst part about the business?: "Giving up," she said.
Key to success: "Loving what I do," Hileman said. She believes in giving 100 percent and making it fun.
Biggest misperception about the business: "People believing they have two left feet," Hileman said. "Dancing is about having fun and can be taught."
Future plans: "My goal is to keep the public of all ages interested in dancing," Hileman said. "It is very beneficial to learn to dance for your own joy as well as weddings, anniversary's, cruises, high school reunions, etc."
Freinds of Animal Services founder still going strong
By Roni Gehlke
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: Barbara Sobalvarro
Occupation: President of the Friends of Animal Services, a nonprofit volunteer organization that supports almost exclusively animals at the Antioch shelter.
Sobalvarro is also a piano teacher who teaches out of her home studio. Her "Musical Family" has been in business since 1982.
Sobalvarro plays piano on Friday and Saturday nights at Carpaccio Ristorante in Antioch. She also is the organist and piano player for St. Alban's Episcopal Church in Brentwood.
"You lead an interesting life when you are a musician. I really enjoy work with the venues of music. I like a lot of variety," Sobalvarro said.
Marital status/family: Sobalvarro lives in Antioch. She became a widow four years ago after 42 years of marriage. She has one son, Camille, who lives in Brentwood with his wife and two daughters.
Proudest civic achievement: Sobalvarro has worked for the Antioch community for over 30 years. She said that she has had many proud moments during that time, including her work with a local political organization many years back called the Association of Responsible Citizens.
Perhaps her proudest achievement, she says is when she founded and helped to build the Friends of the Animal Services organization. For the past 30 years the organization has worked to support the efforts and help the animals of the Antioch Animal Shelter.
"Through Friends of Animal Services we are helping animals that are totally innocent. Our community produced them and we should treat them in the most humane way," she said.
Sobalvarro said that for the past 30 years her organization has tried to keep the animal shelter in the public eye. They have attended countless City Council meetings and at times become very unpopular in the eyes of city officials, but through it all she said that their main goals has been the betterment of the shelter and the animals in their care.
In the past year Friends of Animal Services donated $40,000 to the Antioch Animal Shelter to help care for animals in the shelter. The money went to help pay for veterinary services, spay and neuter services, as well as adoption fees.
Future Achievement: Friends of Animal Services hosts many monthly events. On Oct. 24 the Friends will host its 14 annual Black Cat Ball at the Lone Tree Golf Course. This event will include the 30th anniversary celebration of the Friends group.
As a personal goal, Sobalvarro would like to see the Antioch Animal Shelter become a "no-kill" shelter.
"It wouldn't be something that has to be done all at once. It can be done in increments and show that they are committed to a no-kill goal," she said. "If they did I think they would find more people interested in helping the animals and giving money and volunteering."
Groups and organizations involved in: Although the founder of Friends of Antioch Services, Sobalvarro has not always been the only president of the organization.
Several others have been presidents over the years, she said, explaining that she is just doing her part for the group this year.
She is also a member of the Music Teachers Association of California.
Hobbies: Sobalvarro enjoys playing with her 12 cats. She also loves reading. "If I could I would read all the time," she said.
What was the last book you read: Discover the Power Within by Eric Butterworth. "It is a wonderful book that says if we think we can do it we probably can. If we think we can't, we probably can't. It is a very encouraging book," she said.
Favorite movie: She said "Gone with the Wind" is her favorite movie. She remembers sitting between her parents when she saw the movie for the first time. She also said she enjoys playing show tunes from the movie when she plays at the restaurant on Friday and Saturday nights.
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: Barbara Sobalvarro
Occupation: President of the Friends of Animal Services, a nonprofit volunteer organization that supports almost exclusively animals at the Antioch shelter.
Sobalvarro is also a piano teacher who teaches out of her home studio. Her "Musical Family" has been in business since 1982.
Sobalvarro plays piano on Friday and Saturday nights at Carpaccio Ristorante in Antioch. She also is the organist and piano player for St. Alban's Episcopal Church in Brentwood.
"You lead an interesting life when you are a musician. I really enjoy work with the venues of music. I like a lot of variety," Sobalvarro said.
Marital status/family: Sobalvarro lives in Antioch. She became a widow four years ago after 42 years of marriage. She has one son, Camille, who lives in Brentwood with his wife and two daughters.
Proudest civic achievement: Sobalvarro has worked for the Antioch community for over 30 years. She said that she has had many proud moments during that time, including her work with a local political organization many years back called the Association of Responsible Citizens.
Perhaps her proudest achievement, she says is when she founded and helped to build the Friends of the Animal Services organization. For the past 30 years the organization has worked to support the efforts and help the animals of the Antioch Animal Shelter.
"Through Friends of Animal Services we are helping animals that are totally innocent. Our community produced them and we should treat them in the most humane way," she said.
Sobalvarro said that for the past 30 years her organization has tried to keep the animal shelter in the public eye. They have attended countless City Council meetings and at times become very unpopular in the eyes of city officials, but through it all she said that their main goals has been the betterment of the shelter and the animals in their care.
In the past year Friends of Animal Services donated $40,000 to the Antioch Animal Shelter to help care for animals in the shelter. The money went to help pay for veterinary services, spay and neuter services, as well as adoption fees.
Future Achievement: Friends of Animal Services hosts many monthly events. On Oct. 24 the Friends will host its 14 annual Black Cat Ball at the Lone Tree Golf Course. This event will include the 30th anniversary celebration of the Friends group.
As a personal goal, Sobalvarro would like to see the Antioch Animal Shelter become a "no-kill" shelter.
"It wouldn't be something that has to be done all at once. It can be done in increments and show that they are committed to a no-kill goal," she said. "If they did I think they would find more people interested in helping the animals and giving money and volunteering."
Groups and organizations involved in: Although the founder of Friends of Antioch Services, Sobalvarro has not always been the only president of the organization.
Several others have been presidents over the years, she said, explaining that she is just doing her part for the group this year.
She is also a member of the Music Teachers Association of California.
Hobbies: Sobalvarro enjoys playing with her 12 cats. She also loves reading. "If I could I would read all the time," she said.
What was the last book you read: Discover the Power Within by Eric Butterworth. "It is a wonderful book that says if we think we can do it we probably can. If we think we can't, we probably can't. It is a very encouraging book," she said.
Favorite movie: She said "Gone with the Wind" is her favorite movie. She remembers sitting between her parents when she saw the movie for the first time. She also said she enjoys playing show tunes from the movie when she plays at the restaurant on Friday and Saturday nights.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Pocahontas group plans fashion show fundraiser
By Roni Gehlke
IT MIGHT BE A small group, but Pocahontas is constantly out working to raise money for its pet projects like the American Diabetes Association, the Alzheimer's Association and the Veterans Hospital in Martinez. Each year the organization puts on several fundraisers to help these organizations. The next fundraiser is a fashion show on Aug. 15.
This year's annual fashion show will take place at the Comfort Suites in Oakley. The event features models showing off the everyday wear from Kohl's department store. A Mary Kay representative will be on hand to show some makeup techniques and a salad bar lunch. Proceeds from the $15 per-person lunch will go toward the many groups the Degree of Pocahontas Council supports throughout the year.
The Pocahontas is also already making arrangements for its annual Halloween Haunted House and activities. It may seem too soon to think about Halloween, but the ladies have decided to start planning early to turn the annual one-day event into two days.
"Last year we were so mobbed with people, we couldn't get them through fast enough," organizer Irene Martinez said. The event has been growing each year, but last year they did exceptionally well.
Instead of having the games and the haunted house both days, Martinez said that they will host games, activities, prizes, movies and storytellers on Oct. 30 and then the Haunted House on Oct. 31.
As with many organizations, the Pocahontas is worried about the money it takes to put on the event. In previous years the group has had sponsors and grants to help pay the setup fees for the haunted house, the prizes and advertising. Last year they were able to donate all of the money, which Martinez said was a nice sum, to the Diabetes Association. This year, however, they already know that they have lost their funding and will have to come up with other alternatives for raising money to host the event.
Last year, Martinez said, they were also lucky to come up with some private donations.
"This is really a nice community event and people know it," Martinez said. "We aren't trying to make money off the event, but it does cost money to put together."
There are so many groups that the ladies at the Pocahontas would love to help this year, but like other organizations, they have to host fundraisers to raise money to give away to the worthy organizations.
Last year the group took on helping the Veterans Hospital in Martinez. The group visited the hospital several times, offering support and well wishes to the wounded veterans from many different wars. Martinez said that military members have a special place in her heart since she is married to a retired veteran who served in both the current and Gulf War. She also has a son in the military.
Even though Martinez had started visiting the Veterans Hospital with the group, she continued to visit on her own because she believed it was a worthy cause. Each time she visits she brings handmade cards that she hand-signs. Each time she visits she brings about 120 cards with her. The Pocahontas has put together bags of things they think the veterans need, along with a card in each bag.
"They are just so appreciative that there are people out there to help," she said.
Already Martinez and her daughter, Alicia, are working on making some more cards for Veterans. She isn't sure whether they will visit again with the Pocahontas group, but she is sure that she will keep going.
"It just breaks my heart to see the wounded men and women, but they fought for our freedom and they have to know how important they are," she said.
Tickets for the Pocahontas Fashion Show can be obtained by calling Pocahontas member Jane Crocket at 625-2527.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at oakleynow@comcast.net.
IT MIGHT BE A small group, but Pocahontas is constantly out working to raise money for its pet projects like the American Diabetes Association, the Alzheimer's Association and the Veterans Hospital in Martinez. Each year the organization puts on several fundraisers to help these organizations. The next fundraiser is a fashion show on Aug. 15.
This year's annual fashion show will take place at the Comfort Suites in Oakley. The event features models showing off the everyday wear from Kohl's department store. A Mary Kay representative will be on hand to show some makeup techniques and a salad bar lunch. Proceeds from the $15 per-person lunch will go toward the many groups the Degree of Pocahontas Council supports throughout the year.
The Pocahontas is also already making arrangements for its annual Halloween Haunted House and activities. It may seem too soon to think about Halloween, but the ladies have decided to start planning early to turn the annual one-day event into two days.
"Last year we were so mobbed with people, we couldn't get them through fast enough," organizer Irene Martinez said. The event has been growing each year, but last year they did exceptionally well.
Instead of having the games and the haunted house both days, Martinez said that they will host games, activities, prizes, movies and storytellers on Oct. 30 and then the Haunted House on Oct. 31.
As with many organizations, the Pocahontas is worried about the money it takes to put on the event. In previous years the group has had sponsors and grants to help pay the setup fees for the haunted house, the prizes and advertising. Last year they were able to donate all of the money, which Martinez said was a nice sum, to the Diabetes Association. This year, however, they already know that they have lost their funding and will have to come up with other alternatives for raising money to host the event.
Last year, Martinez said, they were also lucky to come up with some private donations.
"This is really a nice community event and people know it," Martinez said. "We aren't trying to make money off the event, but it does cost money to put together."
There are so many groups that the ladies at the Pocahontas would love to help this year, but like other organizations, they have to host fundraisers to raise money to give away to the worthy organizations.
Last year the group took on helping the Veterans Hospital in Martinez. The group visited the hospital several times, offering support and well wishes to the wounded veterans from many different wars. Martinez said that military members have a special place in her heart since she is married to a retired veteran who served in both the current and Gulf War. She also has a son in the military.
Even though Martinez had started visiting the Veterans Hospital with the group, she continued to visit on her own because she believed it was a worthy cause. Each time she visits she brings handmade cards that she hand-signs. Each time she visits she brings about 120 cards with her. The Pocahontas has put together bags of things they think the veterans need, along with a card in each bag.
"They are just so appreciative that there are people out there to help," she said.
Already Martinez and her daughter, Alicia, are working on making some more cards for Veterans. She isn't sure whether they will visit again with the Pocahontas group, but she is sure that she will keep going.
"It just breaks my heart to see the wounded men and women, but they fought for our freedom and they have to know how important they are," she said.
Tickets for the Pocahontas Fashion Show can be obtained by calling Pocahontas member Jane Crocket at 625-2527.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at oakleynow@comcast.net.
New consignment shop opens for tots, moms-to-be
Name of business: Tummies to Tots
Type of business: Maternity and children's consignment store
Owners: Jeannette and Bill Hemenway
Founded: July 2009
Address: 3860 Balfour Road, Suite A, Brentwood
Phone number: 513-6556
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Number of employees: four
Products and services: Tummies to Tots offers "new-to-you" clothes and gear for kids and mommies-to-be. It offers everything a parent needs from maternity wear through children's clothes size 6/7, including toys and furniture. Brands include Mimi Maternity, Pea in the Pod, Gap, Gymboree, Janie and Jack, Carters and Ralph Lauren and more. Many items arrive new with tags and can still be purchased at 50 to 75 percent off the regular retail price. All items are in like-new or gently used condition. Gear such as slings, strollers, cribs, changing tables, high chairs, boppy pillows, booster seats and toys are also available.
How did you get into the business?: "Having a 3-year-old daughter who seemed to outgrow her clothes and toys in record time became frustrating when we thought about much money we spent on them," Jeannette Hemenway said. "And to just give them away or throw them away when I was sure there were moms that could use them was frustrating. I didn't know how to find those moms, but I knew they were out there".
Hemenway said that in an economy where parents are looking to save every dollar they can, it just seemed like the right move.
"People are struggling but kids still outgrow their clothes. We have to buy them new clothes and toys. It's inevitable. And we always want the best for them. So if we can give them a chance to make some money on their barely used items, and trade up to the next phase at a deep discount, everyone wins."
Hemenway said that not having a children's consignment store in the Brentwood area has been a frustration for many and that they wanted to fill that void.
Best part about the business: "Having the opportunity to give back to our community and the relief we have been able to give so many parents when they can come shopping and get the better brands at cheaper prices and get more of them without ruining the budget," Hemenway said.
She said it's a wonderful feeling to be hugged by a stranger for giving them this choice for shopping. "We feel truly blessed," she said.
Worst part about the business: Having to reject items that don't meet their selling standards. "We simply can't put stained or torn clothing in our store, but it's hard to disappoint people," she said.
She explained that some are really hoping they can work magic for them, but the fact remains that they have to be picky about what they accept.
"Our shoppers depend on my critical eye, which means we just can't accept everything, but we hate to disappoint people just the same."
Key to success: "Being fussy about the clothes we put on the racks, and pricing them right so everyone walks away happy," she said. "I'm just as fussy about a clean store that smells good. Having people walk in and feel good about being there. That's the key to success for us."
Biggest misconception about the business: "That our clothes are used and worn. They aren't. Our clothes and gear almost always look brand new. They may have had a previous owner, but they look and smell great," she said.
She also said that the items in her store are not garage sale items. The consignors will make more money than they will at any garage sale. People who have never consigned often don't understand that, she explained.
Future plans: The Hemenways would like to expand their space to offer even more variety, and depending on the success of this store, there are plans to open Tummies to Tots in other areas as well.
"The more we can offer, the more we can give back and that's what we want to do. It's a win-win for everyone," Hemenway said.
— Roni Gehlke
Type of business: Maternity and children's consignment store
Owners: Jeannette and Bill Hemenway
Founded: July 2009
Address: 3860 Balfour Road, Suite A, Brentwood
Phone number: 513-6556
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Number of employees: four
Products and services: Tummies to Tots offers "new-to-you" clothes and gear for kids and mommies-to-be. It offers everything a parent needs from maternity wear through children's clothes size 6/7, including toys and furniture. Brands include Mimi Maternity, Pea in the Pod, Gap, Gymboree, Janie and Jack, Carters and Ralph Lauren and more. Many items arrive new with tags and can still be purchased at 50 to 75 percent off the regular retail price. All items are in like-new or gently used condition. Gear such as slings, strollers, cribs, changing tables, high chairs, boppy pillows, booster seats and toys are also available.
How did you get into the business?: "Having a 3-year-old daughter who seemed to outgrow her clothes and toys in record time became frustrating when we thought about much money we spent on them," Jeannette Hemenway said. "And to just give them away or throw them away when I was sure there were moms that could use them was frustrating. I didn't know how to find those moms, but I knew they were out there".
Hemenway said that in an economy where parents are looking to save every dollar they can, it just seemed like the right move.
"People are struggling but kids still outgrow their clothes. We have to buy them new clothes and toys. It's inevitable. And we always want the best for them. So if we can give them a chance to make some money on their barely used items, and trade up to the next phase at a deep discount, everyone wins."
Hemenway said that not having a children's consignment store in the Brentwood area has been a frustration for many and that they wanted to fill that void.
Best part about the business: "Having the opportunity to give back to our community and the relief we have been able to give so many parents when they can come shopping and get the better brands at cheaper prices and get more of them without ruining the budget," Hemenway said.
She said it's a wonderful feeling to be hugged by a stranger for giving them this choice for shopping. "We feel truly blessed," she said.
Worst part about the business: Having to reject items that don't meet their selling standards. "We simply can't put stained or torn clothing in our store, but it's hard to disappoint people," she said.
She explained that some are really hoping they can work magic for them, but the fact remains that they have to be picky about what they accept.
"Our shoppers depend on my critical eye, which means we just can't accept everything, but we hate to disappoint people just the same."
Key to success: "Being fussy about the clothes we put on the racks, and pricing them right so everyone walks away happy," she said. "I'm just as fussy about a clean store that smells good. Having people walk in and feel good about being there. That's the key to success for us."
Biggest misconception about the business: "That our clothes are used and worn. They aren't. Our clothes and gear almost always look brand new. They may have had a previous owner, but they look and smell great," she said.
She also said that the items in her store are not garage sale items. The consignors will make more money than they will at any garage sale. People who have never consigned often don't understand that, she explained.
Future plans: The Hemenways would like to expand their space to offer even more variety, and depending on the success of this store, there are plans to open Tummies to Tots in other areas as well.
"The more we can offer, the more we can give back and that's what we want to do. It's a win-win for everyone," Hemenway said.
— Roni Gehlke
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Neighbor: Kops stays busy between HARP and SNIP, two animal rescue group
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: Karen Kops
Occupation: President of Homeless Animals Response Program (HARP) and co-founder and president of Spay/Neuter Impact Program (SNIP)
Marital status/Family: Kops has a daughter, Nicole Simareus, and a son, Marsais Simareus. Her son helps to take care of some of the foster animals she brings in.
Proudest civic achievement: Kops is proud of both her achievements with the HARP and SNIP programs she helped to start. She said that she has especially been excited about the SNIP program.
"We (SNIP) have been able to alter (spay and neuter) more than 400 cats at our clinic. The program is completely run by volunteers, including the vets," Kops said.
HARP was the first project that Kops became involved in. For several years Kops owned her own silk-screening business. She was used to working 60 to 70 hours a week. When she closed down the business, she found herself with too much free time and decided to volunteer at the Antioch Animal Shelter. After working there for awhile and learning about the animals, she decided that the shelter needed more help and decided to build the HARP program.
A foundation's beginning: HARP began with just 12 volunteers. The mission of the group is to work to end pet overpopulation through community education, spay and neuter programs and adoptions in East Contra Costa County. Volunteers work to find families for as many cats and dogs as they can. Many of the animals they help place are from Antioch Animal Shelter, but they also receive animals from individuals.
"The important thing is that we don't take any animals that we can't temporarily shelter with our foster families first," Kops said.
The foster families take in the animals and help with getting the animals to qualified veterinarians to make sure they are healthy. Then they keep the animal until a family can be found to adopt the animal on a permanent basis.
Over the past few months, Kops said that HARP has received several pets from families who have been displaced from their homes through foreclosure or from those who have lost their jobs because they can no longer afford to take care of the pets.
"At the CornFest we had a booth and received four requests to take dogs into our program," Kops said. "One woman told us that she had her home foreclosed on and has five children and needed to give up their dog."
Kops said there are have probably been more people than the organization knows of who asked for help for their pets because of foreclosure.
"People just don't want to tell that is the reason why their pets needed a new home," she said.
Future achievement: Each animal that is taken in to HARP is given a complete physical, immunizations, treatment for any health issues and is spayed or neutered if necessary. The veterinarians who work with the HARP animals do not provide this service for free. Part of Kops' job through the organization is to work on fundraising to pay for all of the services the animals need.
One such fundraiser will take place on Aug. 9. The group will host a Delta Discovery Cruise's sunset dinner cruise. The delta cruise on the Island Serenade will offer cocktails from the no-host bar, a gourmet dinner of either steak, salmon or vegetarian pasta.
Tickets are $50 and must be paid in advance. The money raised will pay for veterinary and foster care for the dogs and kittens that HARP rescues. For more information and tickets for the fundraiser go to www.harp-rescue.org or call 925-431-8546.
HARP has "re-homed" 600 dogs and cats in the past three years. The organization is completely run by volunteers. They pay no rent and have no salaries. All funds go to the care of the animals and community education programs.
"The economic situation in far East Contra Costa County has caused an upsurge in requests from the community for assistance. This fundraiser is crucial to raise additional funds to help distressed homeowners," Kops said.
Groups and organizations involved in: Kops said that pretty much all of her free time is spent between the two groups, HARP and SNIP.
On weekends, HARP volunteers bring animals to local pet stores for possible adoption.
The SNIP program for cats and kittens, meanwhile, is a completely volunteer-based group, including the veterinarians' time. The program is a countywide one that was developed to reduce the number of cats and kittens brought into the animal shelters in Antioch, Martinez and Pinole. The mission was to provide a nonprofit, low-cost spay and neuter organization that was modeled after the very successful "Fix Our Ferals" program.
Kops formed SNIP in 2006 with the help of five animal welfare organizations and the Contra Costa County Animal Services Department. They work with feral and free-roaming cats. The next clinic will be at the Martinez Animal Shelter on Aug. 23. All county residents are welcome to go to that clinic to spay and neuter their cats and kittens.
Name: Karen Kops
Occupation: President of Homeless Animals Response Program (HARP) and co-founder and president of Spay/Neuter Impact Program (SNIP)
Marital status/Family: Kops has a daughter, Nicole Simareus, and a son, Marsais Simareus. Her son helps to take care of some of the foster animals she brings in.
Proudest civic achievement: Kops is proud of both her achievements with the HARP and SNIP programs she helped to start. She said that she has especially been excited about the SNIP program.
"We (SNIP) have been able to alter (spay and neuter) more than 400 cats at our clinic. The program is completely run by volunteers, including the vets," Kops said.
HARP was the first project that Kops became involved in. For several years Kops owned her own silk-screening business. She was used to working 60 to 70 hours a week. When she closed down the business, she found herself with too much free time and decided to volunteer at the Antioch Animal Shelter. After working there for awhile and learning about the animals, she decided that the shelter needed more help and decided to build the HARP program.
A foundation's beginning: HARP began with just 12 volunteers. The mission of the group is to work to end pet overpopulation through community education, spay and neuter programs and adoptions in East Contra Costa County. Volunteers work to find families for as many cats and dogs as they can. Many of the animals they help place are from Antioch Animal Shelter, but they also receive animals from individuals.
"The important thing is that we don't take any animals that we can't temporarily shelter with our foster families first," Kops said.
The foster families take in the animals and help with getting the animals to qualified veterinarians to make sure they are healthy. Then they keep the animal until a family can be found to adopt the animal on a permanent basis.
Over the past few months, Kops said that HARP has received several pets from families who have been displaced from their homes through foreclosure or from those who have lost their jobs because they can no longer afford to take care of the pets.
"At the CornFest we had a booth and received four requests to take dogs into our program," Kops said. "One woman told us that she had her home foreclosed on and has five children and needed to give up their dog."
Kops said there are have probably been more people than the organization knows of who asked for help for their pets because of foreclosure.
"People just don't want to tell that is the reason why their pets needed a new home," she said.
Future achievement: Each animal that is taken in to HARP is given a complete physical, immunizations, treatment for any health issues and is spayed or neutered if necessary. The veterinarians who work with the HARP animals do not provide this service for free. Part of Kops' job through the organization is to work on fundraising to pay for all of the services the animals need.
One such fundraiser will take place on Aug. 9. The group will host a Delta Discovery Cruise's sunset dinner cruise. The delta cruise on the Island Serenade will offer cocktails from the no-host bar, a gourmet dinner of either steak, salmon or vegetarian pasta.
Tickets are $50 and must be paid in advance. The money raised will pay for veterinary and foster care for the dogs and kittens that HARP rescues. For more information and tickets for the fundraiser go to www.harp-rescue.org or call 925-431-8546.
HARP has "re-homed" 600 dogs and cats in the past three years. The organization is completely run by volunteers. They pay no rent and have no salaries. All funds go to the care of the animals and community education programs.
"The economic situation in far East Contra Costa County has caused an upsurge in requests from the community for assistance. This fundraiser is crucial to raise additional funds to help distressed homeowners," Kops said.
Groups and organizations involved in: Kops said that pretty much all of her free time is spent between the two groups, HARP and SNIP.
On weekends, HARP volunteers bring animals to local pet stores for possible adoption.
The SNIP program for cats and kittens, meanwhile, is a completely volunteer-based group, including the veterinarians' time. The program is a countywide one that was developed to reduce the number of cats and kittens brought into the animal shelters in Antioch, Martinez and Pinole. The mission was to provide a nonprofit, low-cost spay and neuter organization that was modeled after the very successful "Fix Our Ferals" program.
Kops formed SNIP in 2006 with the help of five animal welfare organizations and the Contra Costa County Animal Services Department. They work with feral and free-roaming cats. The next clinic will be at the Martinez Animal Shelter on Aug. 23. All county residents are welcome to go to that clinic to spay and neuter their cats and kittens.
Chefs perform for diners at Shirasoni
Name of Business: Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant
Type of business: Restaurant
Owner/manager: Stan Le manages this restaurant for his family.
Founded: March 2009
Address: 6367 Lone Tree Way, Brentwood
Phone number: 240-7808
Hours: Monday through Friday lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; dinner 4:30 to 9:30; Saturday and Sunday 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Dinner is served all day.
Number of employees: 40
Products and services: Teppanyaki-style dining. Teppanyaki became famous in the United States through the Benihana chain, which opened its first restaurant in New York in 1964. Teppanyaki steakhouses place an emphasis on the chef performing a show for the diners, introducing new variations and tricks. Teppanyaki uses a variety of steak and other meats, along with vegetable accompaniments.
Shirasoni also serves a variety of sushi, steak and seafood. They have a full bar and coffee hours are Monday through Friday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
How did you get into the business: Le said that his family worked in the food industry for 10 years owning a few grocery stores.
"This idea was just an extension on that business," he said. The family opened its first restaurant in Stockton and then came to the Brentwood area.
Best part about the business?: "When the customers come in for a special occasion," Le said. "My favorite time in the restaurant is when someone is singing 'Happy Birthday.' "
Worst part about the business?: Le said that he really didn't have any worst moments to speak of.
Key to success: Le says that at his restaurants he lives by two rules: Customers first, employees first.
"If the customers and the employees are happy then a business will have success," he said.
He also said it was important in the restaurant business to have good, quality food.
Biggest misperception about the business: "All lunch restaurants take a long time or that in a teppanyaki restaurant they wait for a table to fill up before doing any cooking," he said. "Here we cook no matter if there is one or five. It doesn't matter." Le said that they make sure that everyone is out at the lunch hour in 45 minutes.
Future plans: Le said their goal is to keep going as they are. They are planning special after-hours nights with a live band. The first date will be Aug. 8, and the bar will be open from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Type of business: Restaurant
Owner/manager: Stan Le manages this restaurant for his family.
Founded: March 2009
Address: 6367 Lone Tree Way, Brentwood
Phone number: 240-7808
Hours: Monday through Friday lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; dinner 4:30 to 9:30; Saturday and Sunday 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Dinner is served all day.
Number of employees: 40
Products and services: Teppanyaki-style dining. Teppanyaki became famous in the United States through the Benihana chain, which opened its first restaurant in New York in 1964. Teppanyaki steakhouses place an emphasis on the chef performing a show for the diners, introducing new variations and tricks. Teppanyaki uses a variety of steak and other meats, along with vegetable accompaniments.
Shirasoni also serves a variety of sushi, steak and seafood. They have a full bar and coffee hours are Monday through Friday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
How did you get into the business: Le said that his family worked in the food industry for 10 years owning a few grocery stores.
"This idea was just an extension on that business," he said. The family opened its first restaurant in Stockton and then came to the Brentwood area.
Best part about the business?: "When the customers come in for a special occasion," Le said. "My favorite time in the restaurant is when someone is singing 'Happy Birthday.' "
Worst part about the business?: Le said that he really didn't have any worst moments to speak of.
Key to success: Le says that at his restaurants he lives by two rules: Customers first, employees first.
"If the customers and the employees are happy then a business will have success," he said.
He also said it was important in the restaurant business to have good, quality food.
Biggest misperception about the business: "All lunch restaurants take a long time or that in a teppanyaki restaurant they wait for a table to fill up before doing any cooking," he said. "Here we cook no matter if there is one or five. It doesn't matter." Le said that they make sure that everyone is out at the lunch hour in 45 minutes.
Future plans: Le said their goal is to keep going as they are. They are planning special after-hours nights with a live band. The first date will be Aug. 8, and the bar will be open from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
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