By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Since there aren't a lot of places where one can view the water in Oakley it is easy to forget that so much shoreline is to be found in the small city. There is even a creek that runs perpendicular to Main Street that offers water views in the area.
In the coming week residents will have the chance to spend some time along Oakley's waterways. First up, on Saturday, the city of Oakley and Oakley business Hook, Line and Sinker will offer a free fishing day on the Delta for children 15 and under.
This is the seventh year the city has offered the Kids Fishing Derby, which takes place at the Antioch-Oakley Regional Shoreline pier at the end of Bridgehead Road. While it is called the Antioch-Oakley Regional Shoreline Park, most of the actual park and the pier are on the Oakley side of the property. For those who haven't had a chance to see the park, it is open to the public from sunrise to sunset free of charge.
The pier used to be the original Antioch Bridge that connected East County to Highway 160. The original 1.8-mile bridge was built in 1926 and served the area until it was torn down in 1978. That first bridge had quite a history. It was a lift-span bridge, much like the bridges that can be found on Highway 160.
Over the years the bridge had several boat collisions. After the last one in 1970 a new bridge was built.
Shoreline Park today sports a view of the Sen. John A. Nejedly Bridge, or what many commonly refer to as the new Antioch Bridge. There is also a small trail around the shoreline that gives views of the Delta. The pier is used by many local fishermen in the area.
The Kids Fishing Derby is a catch-and-release program. Awards and prizes will be given out for the biggest fish by length, smallest fish by length and most fish caught in the day.
Although the event is free, the organizers ask that you preregister at Hook, Line and Sinker at 3100 Main St., Suite 260, behind Centr-O-Mart, or at City Hall. They will offer a free hot dog lunch, and the organizers want to be prepared with enough food. If you can't register, however, there will be on-site registration the day of the event.
Registration for the event starts at 8 a.m.; the derby starts at 9. A fishing pole is required to participate, but bait will be provided. For more information, call 625-7041 or check out the city's website at www.oakleyinfo.com.
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On Sept. 25, the Friends of the Marsh Creek Watershed will host its annual Marsh Creek Creek Cleanup from 9 a.m. to noon. It is amazing just how much garbage blows around in the wind and gets stuck along the shores of the Marsh Creek Trail.
Last year 640 volunteers came out to clean up more than two tons of trash from the creek, which runs through both Oakley and Brentwood. Volunteers are needed from both cities to help.
For details on the cleanup efforts, call 925-325-2908. There is also information on the friends' website at www.fomcw.org.
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.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Oakley shop focuses on custom motorcycles, accessories
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Rockin Rebel Customs
Type of business: Motorcycles and accessories
Owner: Tony Ghiselli
Founded: May 2010
Address: 3100 Main St., Oakley
Phone number: 510-931-7625
Website: www.rockinrebelcustoms.com
Hours: Noon to 7 p.m. Thursday through Monday; Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
Number of employees: three
Products and services: Rockin Rebel features a full line of motorcycle accessories and custom- built motorcycles. The accessories include vests, jackets, helmets, and apparel for men and women. Merchandise lines include Vega helmets, Rock House and Road House apparel. Rockin Rebel also offers some custom painting work.
How did you get into the business: "We aren't people who have been riding forever," Ghiselli said.
When Ghiselli and his wife started dating she was concerned that they had nothing in common and decided they needed to come up with something to do together.
"She decided she wanted to ride motorcycles together," he said, noting that he knew nothing whatso ever about motorcycles when he purchased his first two. "I was literally looking up how to ride a motorcycle on the Internet when the guys were dropping them off on my driveway."
A few years back, after suffering from job stress, Ghiselli took up an offer from a friend to work with him at a motorcycle shop. After working at the shop for awhile, Ghiselli decided to try his luck on fixing up a motorcycle in his own garage. After he had fixed up and sold a few, his wife suggested he open his own place.
"It was like when she gave me the green light to go with it and I went for it," he said.
His first shop was in San Leandro. When they moved to Oakley Ghiselli decided to open his store here. It also gave him a chance to expand the size of his shop, so he could increase his merchandise.
Best part about the business?: "People in the biking community are very nice and very supportive people," Ghiselli said. "I've really enjoyed getting to know them."
Ghiselli said he also likes to shop and having this business gives him a chance to buy what he likes and to see what is out there.
Worst part about the business?: So far he is happy with everything about this business. He loves working on motorcycles and being involved in the industry.
Key to success: "Keeping everything very affordable," Ghiselli said.
He knows that right now the tough economy means less money for everyone and that to be successful he has to keep his prices low. That means selling his custom motorcycles for under $4,000 and maybe offering non-logo but good quality apparel.
Biggest misperception about the business: "The motorcycle industry is expensive," Ghiselli said.
"Keeping the cost down, sometimes by half, helps everybody," he said.
The other misperception is that only motorcycle riders wear motorcycle-style clothing. "We have something for everyone here. A lot of people just like the clothes and don't ride. There is nothing wrong with that," he said.
Future plans: Ghiselli said that he is already getting ready for his first expansion at this shop. He has already put in an order to double the merchandise he carries. Because of that he will be hosting a big sale in the coming weeks to get rid of some of the old inventory.
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Rockin Rebel Customs
Type of business: Motorcycles and accessories
Owner: Tony Ghiselli
Founded: May 2010
Address: 3100 Main St., Oakley
Phone number: 510-931-7625
Website: www.rockinrebelcustoms.com
Hours: Noon to 7 p.m. Thursday through Monday; Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
Number of employees: three
Products and services: Rockin Rebel features a full line of motorcycle accessories and custom- built motorcycles. The accessories include vests, jackets, helmets, and apparel for men and women. Merchandise lines include Vega helmets, Rock House and Road House apparel. Rockin Rebel also offers some custom painting work.
How did you get into the business: "We aren't people who have been riding forever," Ghiselli said.
When Ghiselli and his wife started dating she was concerned that they had nothing in common and decided they needed to come up with something to do together.
"She decided she wanted to ride motorcycles together," he said, noting that he knew nothing whatso ever about motorcycles when he purchased his first two. "I was literally looking up how to ride a motorcycle on the Internet when the guys were dropping them off on my driveway."
A few years back, after suffering from job stress, Ghiselli took up an offer from a friend to work with him at a motorcycle shop. After working at the shop for awhile, Ghiselli decided to try his luck on fixing up a motorcycle in his own garage. After he had fixed up and sold a few, his wife suggested he open his own place.
"It was like when she gave me the green light to go with it and I went for it," he said.
His first shop was in San Leandro. When they moved to Oakley Ghiselli decided to open his store here. It also gave him a chance to expand the size of his shop, so he could increase his merchandise.
Best part about the business?: "People in the biking community are very nice and very supportive people," Ghiselli said. "I've really enjoyed getting to know them."
Ghiselli said he also likes to shop and having this business gives him a chance to buy what he likes and to see what is out there.
Worst part about the business?: So far he is happy with everything about this business. He loves working on motorcycles and being involved in the industry.
Key to success: "Keeping everything very affordable," Ghiselli said.
He knows that right now the tough economy means less money for everyone and that to be successful he has to keep his prices low. That means selling his custom motorcycles for under $4,000 and maybe offering non-logo but good quality apparel.
Biggest misperception about the business: "The motorcycle industry is expensive," Ghiselli said.
"Keeping the cost down, sometimes by half, helps everybody," he said.
The other misperception is that only motorcycle riders wear motorcycle-style clothing. "We have something for everyone here. A lot of people just like the clothes and don't ride. There is nothing wrong with that," he said.
Future plans: Ghiselli said that he is already getting ready for his first expansion at this shop. He has already put in an order to double the merchandise he carries. Because of that he will be hosting a big sale in the coming weeks to get rid of some of the old inventory.
-- Roni Gehlke
Business spotlight: Brentwood's Glamora by Sadia offers high-end women's accessories and more
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Glamora by Sadia
Type of business: Men's clothing, women's purses and accessories
Owner: Sadia Barrameda
Founded: 2010
Address: The Streets of Brentwood, 2475 Sand Creek Road, Suite 112, Brentwood
Phone number: 925-516-4760
Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Number of employees: three
Products and services: Glamora by Sadia is a high-end fashion boutique featuring authentic designer purses and handbags, wallets and other leather goods, fashion accessories, jewelry, shoes, men and women's apparel and exclusive couture created and designed with Sadia Barrameda label using the designer name Sadia Ross.
The store features high-end brand names like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Christian Dior and Hermes.
How did you get into the business: Having traveled to extensively around the world, Barrameda has seen high-end fashion stores in many cities, but not anywhere in East County. She decided that she would provide a place where local residents can shop in their own community for accessories from high-end designers.
Born in Mindanao, Philippines, where her grandfather rules as Sultanate, Barrameda acquired an appreciation for fine art and high fashion. Her mother, a Mindanaoan princess, was her chief inspiration. She began to cultivate her fashion work through her hobbyas a seamstress and clothing designer, eventually developing her own line of clothing, the Sadia Ross label.
"Glamora by Sadia is an extension of my personality, and of my closet," Barrameda said.
Best part about the business: "Glamora give me a place to showcase genuinely fine products that people don't usually find here in East County," Barrameda said. "Plus, offering my own designs gives people a chance to find one-of-a-kind items here."
Worst part about the business: Like with many businesses, Barrameda said that economy makes it hard for people to indulge in purchasing their favorite designer items.
Key to success: "Finding the right market and letting the community know about our upscale merchandise," she said.
Biggest misperception about the business: "It is always a challenge because people come in and ask if the merchandise is authentic," Barrameda said. "Like they don't think that a store in Brentwood would carry the real name brands."
Future plans: Barrameda is hoping to make Glamora by Sadia a chain store and open new branches in other areas.
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Glamora by Sadia
Type of business: Men's clothing, women's purses and accessories
Owner: Sadia Barrameda
Founded: 2010
Address: The Streets of Brentwood, 2475 Sand Creek Road, Suite 112, Brentwood
Phone number: 925-516-4760
Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Number of employees: three
Products and services: Glamora by Sadia is a high-end fashion boutique featuring authentic designer purses and handbags, wallets and other leather goods, fashion accessories, jewelry, shoes, men and women's apparel and exclusive couture created and designed with Sadia Barrameda label using the designer name Sadia Ross.
The store features high-end brand names like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Christian Dior and Hermes.
How did you get into the business: Having traveled to extensively around the world, Barrameda has seen high-end fashion stores in many cities, but not anywhere in East County. She decided that she would provide a place where local residents can shop in their own community for accessories from high-end designers.
Born in Mindanao, Philippines, where her grandfather rules as Sultanate, Barrameda acquired an appreciation for fine art and high fashion. Her mother, a Mindanaoan princess, was her chief inspiration. She began to cultivate her fashion work through her hobbyas a seamstress and clothing designer, eventually developing her own line of clothing, the Sadia Ross label.
"Glamora by Sadia is an extension of my personality, and of my closet," Barrameda said.
Best part about the business: "Glamora give me a place to showcase genuinely fine products that people don't usually find here in East County," Barrameda said. "Plus, offering my own designs gives people a chance to find one-of-a-kind items here."
Worst part about the business: Like with many businesses, Barrameda said that economy makes it hard for people to indulge in purchasing their favorite designer items.
Key to success: "Finding the right market and letting the community know about our upscale merchandise," she said.
Biggest misperception about the business: "It is always a challenge because people come in and ask if the merchandise is authentic," Barrameda said. "Like they don't think that a store in Brentwood would carry the real name brands."
Future plans: Barrameda is hoping to make Glamora by Sadia a chain store and open new branches in other areas.
-- Roni Gehlke
Around Oakley: Helping children learn to read is Snider's passion
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Reading didn't come easy for Joy Snider when she was young. By the time she graduated high school she was only able to read at a sixth-grade level. That didn't stop her from becoming one of Oakley's finest teachers. This year she has even been awarded the Oakley Elementary School District's highest honor as Teacher of the Year.
A lot has happened since her high school days. In college she had decided to study business even though that wasn't what she really wanted to do. It wasn't until she had met someone at college who helped her that she realized, like so many people, she was not a visual reader.
"I was able to learn to read better by using the phonics method," Snider said.
Then the rest, as they say, is history.
Working her way through college at a preschool, she knew she loved being with kids. What better way to work with them then as a teacher? She soon changed her major to teaching, Not long after receiving her degree, she began teaching a second- and third-grade combination class in Bakersfield.
During her career -- which 24 years ago brought her to Gehringer Elementary School -- Snider has concentrated on working with children who have reading problems.
"I was one of those children, so I understand where they are coming from," Snider said. "It makes it easier to teach them reading and coping skills."
For the first 17 years at Gehringer, Snider taught first grade. Then forthree years she worked with third-graders. She also worked a couple of years at the school reading facility and then moved back to the classroom this year to teach second grade.
Snider thinks that part of the reason why she was chosen as the elementary district's Teacher of the Year is because she is generally seen as the school's "go-to" girl. Teachers and the administration often come to her when they need questions answered. She said that over the years she has been involved in many programs throughout the school system as well as at the school.
"My favorite is creative writing," she said. "Make them love it now and they will love it forever."
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Another Oakley teacher was also named Teacher of the Year, this time with the Liberty High School District. Freedom High School's athletic director, tennis coach and English teacher Steve Amaro.
Amaro also started his college education considering a degree in business, but quickly changed to a teaching career when he was encouraged by one of his professors.
Amaro is working on his doctoral degree in educational leadership.
He began at Freedom in 1998. When he isn't teaching English, which he loves, he is working as head of the athletic department on the Freedom campus. He started as an assistant coach of the girls tennis team when he first started teaching at Freedom and moved up from there.
In an interview with the East County Times last month, Amaro said that "Any graduate from here can go out and change the world. I am lucky to have this job and have a chance to make a difference with these students."
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
For the Contra Costa Times
Reading didn't come easy for Joy Snider when she was young. By the time she graduated high school she was only able to read at a sixth-grade level. That didn't stop her from becoming one of Oakley's finest teachers. This year she has even been awarded the Oakley Elementary School District's highest honor as Teacher of the Year.
A lot has happened since her high school days. In college she had decided to study business even though that wasn't what she really wanted to do. It wasn't until she had met someone at college who helped her that she realized, like so many people, she was not a visual reader.
"I was able to learn to read better by using the phonics method," Snider said.
Then the rest, as they say, is history.
Working her way through college at a preschool, she knew she loved being with kids. What better way to work with them then as a teacher? She soon changed her major to teaching, Not long after receiving her degree, she began teaching a second- and third-grade combination class in Bakersfield.
During her career -- which 24 years ago brought her to Gehringer Elementary School -- Snider has concentrated on working with children who have reading problems.
"I was one of those children, so I understand where they are coming from," Snider said. "It makes it easier to teach them reading and coping skills."
For the first 17 years at Gehringer, Snider taught first grade. Then forthree years she worked with third-graders. She also worked a couple of years at the school reading facility and then moved back to the classroom this year to teach second grade.
Snider thinks that part of the reason why she was chosen as the elementary district's Teacher of the Year is because she is generally seen as the school's "go-to" girl. Teachers and the administration often come to her when they need questions answered. She said that over the years she has been involved in many programs throughout the school system as well as at the school.
"My favorite is creative writing," she said. "Make them love it now and they will love it forever."
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Another Oakley teacher was also named Teacher of the Year, this time with the Liberty High School District. Freedom High School's athletic director, tennis coach and English teacher Steve Amaro.
Amaro also started his college education considering a degree in business, but quickly changed to a teaching career when he was encouraged by one of his professors.
Amaro is working on his doctoral degree in educational leadership.
He began at Freedom in 1998. When he isn't teaching English, which he loves, he is working as head of the athletic department on the Freedom campus. He started as an assistant coach of the girls tennis team when he first started teaching at Freedom and moved up from there.
In an interview with the East County Times last month, Amaro said that "Any graduate from here can go out and change the world. I am lucky to have this job and have a chance to make a difference with these students."
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
Business Spotlight: Brentwood dance studio prepares to open up second site in Antioch
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: East County Performing Arts Center
Type of business: Dance and Performing Arts School
Owners: Nina and David Koch
Founded: 2002
Address: 700 Harvest Park Drive, Suite P, Brentwood, and new location at 5865 Lone Tree Way, Suite N, Antioch
Phone number: 925-240-5556, Brentwood; 925-756-7096, Antioch
Hours: Main Brentwood office holds office hours Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays 2:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. and Saturday mornings
Number of employees: 12
Products and services: Dance and performing arts classes. Classes for all ages, including Boogie Babies (for ages 2 to 3 years old), pre-jazz, tap, ballet and jazz combination classes, ballet classes, including pre-ballet to ballet 5, pre-pointe and pointe classes. They also provide hip-hop, modern, tap, dance for cheer and Mommy and Me classes. In addition, East County Performing Arts Center offers a Children's Ballet Theater.
The business is in the process of opening its new location in Antioch. Class registration is open for that location. East County Performing Arts Center will soon be offering dancewear and shoes at both locations.
How did you get into the business: "I have been teaching for 20-plus years and dancing for 30- plus years," Nina Koch said. "Before I lived in Brentwood I was the director of a studio in San Jose."
When Koch and her husband moved to Brentwood, she had the opportunity to open a studio there. Now she is expanding the business and opening a new location in Antioch.
Best part about the business?: "Working with the kids," Koch said. "There is something very special about working with children. They give me such great gifts every day."
Koch said children have the best stories and enthusiasm for everything they do and that joy rubs off on her and all of her staff.
Worst part about the business?: "As with any business, the worst thing is the times it keeps me away from my family," Koch said.
Key to success: "No excuses," she said. "I refuse to sit on my laurels and blame the economy for 'tough times.' "
She said she believes that people are keeping their kids in extracurricular activities. "As a business owner it is my job to convince parents to bring their child to me and not another studio or activity."
Biggest misperception about the business: "I don't think a lot of people think of a dance studio as a 'real' business," she said. "This is not just a fun little hobby for me. I take it very seriously and it is a very well run business like any other."
Koch explained that she has a business plan, marketing plan, customer service staff, policies and procedures and everything is very well-spelled out and organized.
"Our website is updated constantly and right now anyone can go on and view our studio calendar, policies and procedures, recital information and class information. We also have a 24-hour studio hotline for parents to call for round-the-clock information," she said.
Future plans: "Now that we are opening up our second location in Antioch, which I am very excited for, we plan on incorporating this year," she said.
Within the next five years she hopes to be able to buy land and build a studio from the ground up.
"We have many plans to grow the company with other relatable businesses so we will be able to continue to provide opportunities for kids," she said.
She said that they also have a free dance program that was recently started at Gehringer School in Oakley in conjunction with Brentwood Children's Ballet Theater. Koch said she would love to see that program grow to more schools in Oakley, Antioch and Brentwood.
"It is very important to offer dance to all children in the community. Our first family dance night at Gehringer school was so successful we had over 200 students and family members participate," Koch said.
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: East County Performing Arts Center
Type of business: Dance and Performing Arts School
Owners: Nina and David Koch
Founded: 2002
Address: 700 Harvest Park Drive, Suite P, Brentwood, and new location at 5865 Lone Tree Way, Suite N, Antioch
Phone number: 925-240-5556, Brentwood; 925-756-7096, Antioch
Hours: Main Brentwood office holds office hours Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays 2:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. and Saturday mornings
Number of employees: 12
Products and services: Dance and performing arts classes. Classes for all ages, including Boogie Babies (for ages 2 to 3 years old), pre-jazz, tap, ballet and jazz combination classes, ballet classes, including pre-ballet to ballet 5, pre-pointe and pointe classes. They also provide hip-hop, modern, tap, dance for cheer and Mommy and Me classes. In addition, East County Performing Arts Center offers a Children's Ballet Theater.
The business is in the process of opening its new location in Antioch. Class registration is open for that location. East County Performing Arts Center will soon be offering dancewear and shoes at both locations.
How did you get into the business: "I have been teaching for 20-plus years and dancing for 30- plus years," Nina Koch said. "Before I lived in Brentwood I was the director of a studio in San Jose."
When Koch and her husband moved to Brentwood, she had the opportunity to open a studio there. Now she is expanding the business and opening a new location in Antioch.
Best part about the business?: "Working with the kids," Koch said. "There is something very special about working with children. They give me such great gifts every day."
Koch said children have the best stories and enthusiasm for everything they do and that joy rubs off on her and all of her staff.
Worst part about the business?: "As with any business, the worst thing is the times it keeps me away from my family," Koch said.
Key to success: "No excuses," she said. "I refuse to sit on my laurels and blame the economy for 'tough times.' "
She said she believes that people are keeping their kids in extracurricular activities. "As a business owner it is my job to convince parents to bring their child to me and not another studio or activity."
Biggest misperception about the business: "I don't think a lot of people think of a dance studio as a 'real' business," she said. "This is not just a fun little hobby for me. I take it very seriously and it is a very well run business like any other."
Koch explained that she has a business plan, marketing plan, customer service staff, policies and procedures and everything is very well-spelled out and organized.
"Our website is updated constantly and right now anyone can go on and view our studio calendar, policies and procedures, recital information and class information. We also have a 24-hour studio hotline for parents to call for round-the-clock information," she said.
Future plans: "Now that we are opening up our second location in Antioch, which I am very excited for, we plan on incorporating this year," she said.
Within the next five years she hopes to be able to buy land and build a studio from the ground up.
"We have many plans to grow the company with other relatable businesses so we will be able to continue to provide opportunities for kids," she said.
She said that they also have a free dance program that was recently started at Gehringer School in Oakley in conjunction with Brentwood Children's Ballet Theater. Koch said she would love to see that program grow to more schools in Oakley, Antioch and Brentwood.
"It is very important to offer dance to all children in the community. Our first family dance night at Gehringer school was so successful we had over 200 students and family members participate," Koch said.
-- Roni Gehlke
Business Spotlight: Antioch's Devon Almarinez is not your typical clothing designer
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Heroics Design Studios/Screen Printing
Type of business: Design and screen printing
Owner: Devon Almarinez
Founded: 2006
Address: 608 W. Second St., Antioch
Phone number: 925-207-8974
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday
Number of employees: one
Products and services: Screen printing designing for clothing and apparel items and promotional merchandise. Heroics Design Studio and Screen Printing produces items for businesses, sport team and personal use. Heroics provides T-shirt designs, screen printing, mix-tapes and posters.
How did you get into the business: "I got into the business from designing my own clothing," Almarinez said. "I learned how to screen print from a friend. Years down the line, I decided to have my own print shop for my personal and artist collaboration clothing projects."
For the past five years Almarinez has traveled back and forth from Los Angeles and all over the country for work purposes. He moved back from Los Angeles to the East Bay to be near family but still commutes to Los Angeles for special projects.
"I opened up a shop and working office, but it turned out to be a design studio, screen printing and store," he said.
Best part about the business?: "I'm doing what I love to do. If I can be around my hometown and guide any others in my field, I'm happy to help," he said.
Worst part about the business?: "I've been lucky not to see the worst," Almarinez said.
Key to success: "The key to success is to believe in yourself and progress," Almarinez said.
Biggest misperception about the business: "You are not alone. There are many business owners near you. They frequently talk to you about future goals, collaborations or simply how you are doing," he said.
Future plans: Almarinez said his future plans are to have Heroics stores in every major city. "Each store, design studio and screen printing will have my own unique designs for sale. So, they can be purchased only at that store. They will all have different themes," he said.
His hope is to work with all the artists that he does now and travel on tour and design new clothing and art. Then he plans to bring different designs back to his stores.
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Heroics Design Studios/Screen Printing
Type of business: Design and screen printing
Owner: Devon Almarinez
Founded: 2006
Address: 608 W. Second St., Antioch
Phone number: 925-207-8974
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday
Number of employees: one
Products and services: Screen printing designing for clothing and apparel items and promotional merchandise. Heroics Design Studio and Screen Printing produces items for businesses, sport team and personal use. Heroics provides T-shirt designs, screen printing, mix-tapes and posters.
How did you get into the business: "I got into the business from designing my own clothing," Almarinez said. "I learned how to screen print from a friend. Years down the line, I decided to have my own print shop for my personal and artist collaboration clothing projects."
For the past five years Almarinez has traveled back and forth from Los Angeles and all over the country for work purposes. He moved back from Los Angeles to the East Bay to be near family but still commutes to Los Angeles for special projects.
"I opened up a shop and working office, but it turned out to be a design studio, screen printing and store," he said.
Best part about the business?: "I'm doing what I love to do. If I can be around my hometown and guide any others in my field, I'm happy to help," he said.
Worst part about the business?: "I've been lucky not to see the worst," Almarinez said.
Key to success: "The key to success is to believe in yourself and progress," Almarinez said.
Biggest misperception about the business: "You are not alone. There are many business owners near you. They frequently talk to you about future goals, collaborations or simply how you are doing," he said.
Future plans: Almarinez said his future plans are to have Heroics stores in every major city. "Each store, design studio and screen printing will have my own unique designs for sale. So, they can be purchased only at that store. They will all have different themes," he said.
His hope is to work with all the artists that he does now and travel on tour and design new clothing and art. Then he plans to bring different designs back to his stores.
-- Roni Gehlke
Around Oakley: Pocahontas club celebrates diamond anniversary
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
For 75 years, the Degree of Pocahontas has hosted a chapter in Oakley. In recognition of its diamond anniversary, the local club will host an open house Saturday and unveil its new historical museum at the Red Men-Pocahontas Hall.
The idea for the museum started after longtime member Bill Mullen passed away and his family donated his collection of Red Men-Pocahontas memorabilia to the club.
Mullen was a former president of the local and state chapters of the Order of Red Men.
"We are all going to be surprised when we open the boxes that Bill left with the historical items," said Jane Crocket, secretary of the Oakley group.
Crocket said the boxes will be opened and displayed right before the open house.
As president of the state club, Mullen had collected items from various Red Men clubs throughout the state. Crocket suspects that there will be some programs, pamphlets, artifacts and headdresses.
Along with Mullen's collection, Pocahontas member Shirley Darling will donate some of her Degree of Pocahontas collection to the museum.
Members of the club spent the past few months building cabinets to hold the memorabilia.
When the Pocahontas started its Oakley chapter in 1935, the group didn't have its own building and met at the sheriff's annex on O'Hara Avenue. Later, it met at the Flor Do Oakley Hall and St. Anthony Church. The Red Men and Pocahontas clubs finally purchased what is now the Red Men-Pocahontas Hall at 1403 Main St. in 1962.
The hall has several rooms, including a full kitchen. The museum will be located in the back room, where those who attend meetings and rent the hall will be able to see the items.
The Pocahontas is the women's affiliate club of The Improved Order of Red Men, which started its group in Oakley the year before the Pocahontas. The national organization began in 1885. The organization takes its name from Pocahontas, daughter of the Native American Chief Powhatan of the Algonquian Indian Tribe.
The Degree of Pocahontas engages in fraternal and social affairs. The national group, in conjunction with the local clubs, works to raise money for several nonprofit groups, including Alzheimer's disease research.
Some of the upcoming events include the ninth annual Halloween Festival, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 22-23. The festival will feature a haunted house, games and activities for children of all ages. For more information, call Irene Martinez at 925-625-1102.
On Nov. 6, the group will take a bus trip to Black Oak casino for the day. Everyone over age 21 is invited to attend. The fee is $29, and the ride includes refreshments for the drive home.
The bus leaves at 7:30 a.m. and returns around 6:30 p.m. Call Shirley Darling at 925-625-0596 for more information.
The group's annual Holiday Boutique takes place Nov. 27-28 and Dec. 5. Spaces are still available for vendors interested in selling crafts, collectibles, baked goods, scrapbooking, beauty and hobby products. Call Martinez for details.
The group will also host a pork chop dinner fundraiser for Alzheimer's research in early December.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
For the Contra Costa Times
For 75 years, the Degree of Pocahontas has hosted a chapter in Oakley. In recognition of its diamond anniversary, the local club will host an open house Saturday and unveil its new historical museum at the Red Men-Pocahontas Hall.
The idea for the museum started after longtime member Bill Mullen passed away and his family donated his collection of Red Men-Pocahontas memorabilia to the club.
Mullen was a former president of the local and state chapters of the Order of Red Men.
"We are all going to be surprised when we open the boxes that Bill left with the historical items," said Jane Crocket, secretary of the Oakley group.
Crocket said the boxes will be opened and displayed right before the open house.
As president of the state club, Mullen had collected items from various Red Men clubs throughout the state. Crocket suspects that there will be some programs, pamphlets, artifacts and headdresses.
Along with Mullen's collection, Pocahontas member Shirley Darling will donate some of her Degree of Pocahontas collection to the museum.
Members of the club spent the past few months building cabinets to hold the memorabilia.
When the Pocahontas started its Oakley chapter in 1935, the group didn't have its own building and met at the sheriff's annex on O'Hara Avenue. Later, it met at the Flor Do Oakley Hall and St. Anthony Church. The Red Men and Pocahontas clubs finally purchased what is now the Red Men-Pocahontas Hall at 1403 Main St. in 1962.
The hall has several rooms, including a full kitchen. The museum will be located in the back room, where those who attend meetings and rent the hall will be able to see the items.
The Pocahontas is the women's affiliate club of The Improved Order of Red Men, which started its group in Oakley the year before the Pocahontas. The national organization began in 1885. The organization takes its name from Pocahontas, daughter of the Native American Chief Powhatan of the Algonquian Indian Tribe.
The Degree of Pocahontas engages in fraternal and social affairs. The national group, in conjunction with the local clubs, works to raise money for several nonprofit groups, including Alzheimer's disease research.
Some of the upcoming events include the ninth annual Halloween Festival, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 22-23. The festival will feature a haunted house, games and activities for children of all ages. For more information, call Irene Martinez at 925-625-1102.
On Nov. 6, the group will take a bus trip to Black Oak casino for the day. Everyone over age 21 is invited to attend. The fee is $29, and the ride includes refreshments for the drive home.
The bus leaves at 7:30 a.m. and returns around 6:30 p.m. Call Shirley Darling at 925-625-0596 for more information.
The group's annual Holiday Boutique takes place Nov. 27-28 and Dec. 5. Spaces are still available for vendors interested in selling crafts, collectibles, baked goods, scrapbooking, beauty and hobby products. Call Martinez for details.
The group will also host a pork chop dinner fundraiser for Alzheimer's research in early December.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
Business spotlight: Much more to Bethel Island's Sugar Barge than banquet facilities
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Sugar Barge RV Resort and Marina
Type of business: RV Park and Boat Marina
Owners: Earl and Dave Riggs, father and son
Founded: 1995
Address: 1440 Sugar Barge Road, Bethel Island
Phone number: 925-684-9075
Website: www.sugarbarge.com
Hours: Open 24 hours (various seasonal hours for store and restaurant)
Number of employees: family-run, with number of employees varied depending on season
Products and services: Sugar Barge is a full-service RV Park and Marina with a banquet facility overlooking the Delta, 114 full-hook-up RV sites with Free Wi-Fi, tent camp sites, full- service marina and launch ramp. Sugar Barge also offers a tractor launching service, 24-hour fuel dock, fish cleaning station, covered berths.
For those interested in boating on the Delta, but don't own a boat, Sugar Barge has a wide selection of boat rentals available. They have patio boats, fishing boats, Waverunners, ski boats, kayaks and pedal boats.
Other services include an enclosed and covered boat and RV storage area and travel trailer rentals. The Sugar Barge Outdoor Bar and Grill is open during the summer season Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day Weekend. The restaurant is available for banquets all year long.
How did you get into the business: "RVing and boating have always played an important role
in Earl and Dave's lives," said manager Tracy Venable. "When they purchased the land 15 years ago, it was nothing more than a shut down membership RV Park."
The Riggs remodeled the RV park, built the entire marina, launch ramp, including boat slips. They also added the restaurant facility, boat and RV storage area and created the Sugar Barge Boat and RV Rental division.
Best part about the business?: "Owning a business that is in such a great location on the beautiful Delta and the friends that we've made along the way," Venable said. "It's so wonderful to start your workday in an outdoor environment where you're able to say 'Good morning' to the RVers that are out walking their dog with a fresh cup of coffee or chatting it up with the fisherman to see how the Bass and Striper are biting."
Venable went on to say that the beauty of the Delta is amazing with it's wildlife and beautiful sunsets.
"It's so much fun to watch the herons, river otters, hoot owls and other wildlife that are out here," she said. "Our motto at Sugar Barge is relax, enjoy and have fun. That's exactly what our guests do."
Worst part about the business?: Venable said she couldn't think of anything worse, especially in light of what the best part is.
Key to success: "Surrounding ourselves with a great friendly staff that help us to be successful," she said.
Biggest misperception about the business: Venable said that many people think that the Sugar Barge is only a restaurant. "Sugar Barge has so much to offer to so many people, young and old alike," she said.
She explained that Sugar Barge can offer a weekend camping with family, or gathering the neighbors to rent a patio boat together, taking a day off to go fishing or finding the perfect location with a view of the water for a wedding or private party.
Future plans: "We've just opened our banquet facility and are busy getting the word out," Venable said.
They are spending their time promoting their locations at festivals and events.
"We will continue to promote the Delta area," she said. "It's amazing how many people have no idea that the beautiful Delta is in their own backyard and ready for them to come out and have a great time."
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Sugar Barge RV Resort and Marina
Type of business: RV Park and Boat Marina
Owners: Earl and Dave Riggs, father and son
Founded: 1995
Address: 1440 Sugar Barge Road, Bethel Island
Phone number: 925-684-9075
Website: www.sugarbarge.com
Hours: Open 24 hours (various seasonal hours for store and restaurant)
Number of employees: family-run, with number of employees varied depending on season
Products and services: Sugar Barge is a full-service RV Park and Marina with a banquet facility overlooking the Delta, 114 full-hook-up RV sites with Free Wi-Fi, tent camp sites, full- service marina and launch ramp. Sugar Barge also offers a tractor launching service, 24-hour fuel dock, fish cleaning station, covered berths.
For those interested in boating on the Delta, but don't own a boat, Sugar Barge has a wide selection of boat rentals available. They have patio boats, fishing boats, Waverunners, ski boats, kayaks and pedal boats.
Other services include an enclosed and covered boat and RV storage area and travel trailer rentals. The Sugar Barge Outdoor Bar and Grill is open during the summer season Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day Weekend. The restaurant is available for banquets all year long.
How did you get into the business: "RVing and boating have always played an important role
in Earl and Dave's lives," said manager Tracy Venable. "When they purchased the land 15 years ago, it was nothing more than a shut down membership RV Park."
The Riggs remodeled the RV park, built the entire marina, launch ramp, including boat slips. They also added the restaurant facility, boat and RV storage area and created the Sugar Barge Boat and RV Rental division.
Best part about the business?: "Owning a business that is in such a great location on the beautiful Delta and the friends that we've made along the way," Venable said. "It's so wonderful to start your workday in an outdoor environment where you're able to say 'Good morning' to the RVers that are out walking their dog with a fresh cup of coffee or chatting it up with the fisherman to see how the Bass and Striper are biting."
Venable went on to say that the beauty of the Delta is amazing with it's wildlife and beautiful sunsets.
"It's so much fun to watch the herons, river otters, hoot owls and other wildlife that are out here," she said. "Our motto at Sugar Barge is relax, enjoy and have fun. That's exactly what our guests do."
Worst part about the business?: Venable said she couldn't think of anything worse, especially in light of what the best part is.
Key to success: "Surrounding ourselves with a great friendly staff that help us to be successful," she said.
Biggest misperception about the business: Venable said that many people think that the Sugar Barge is only a restaurant. "Sugar Barge has so much to offer to so many people, young and old alike," she said.
She explained that Sugar Barge can offer a weekend camping with family, or gathering the neighbors to rent a patio boat together, taking a day off to go fishing or finding the perfect location with a view of the water for a wedding or private party.
Future plans: "We've just opened our banquet facility and are busy getting the word out," Venable said.
They are spending their time promoting their locations at festivals and events.
"We will continue to promote the Delta area," she said. "It's amazing how many people have no idea that the beautiful Delta is in their own backyard and ready for them to come out and have a great time."
-- Roni Gehlke
Around Oakley: Freedom Band Boosters play mom to all the school's musicians
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Last weekend while football players practiced skirmishes out on the field, Freedom High School marching band and color guard students dedicated long hours to practicing their routines at its annual March-a-thon. Each year the bands get together for a weekend of workouts and practices to get ready for the fall marching band competitions, parades and home football games.
The students dedicate a lot of time in learning their instruments and choreographed routines, but behind every talented student on the field or in the parade are the booster clubs that help them get to games, raise funds and supply them with uniforms.
For the Freedom Band Boosters, that includes helping nearly 100 students in getting organized for not only this season, but also for a full year's worth of activities.
"Basically, we're a team of parent volunteers checking to make sure students are dressed, hydrated and fed," Annette Lewis, treasurer for the band boosters said. "In other words, we're a group of parents who parent the whole group."
One of the most recognizable bands in a high school is usually the marching band. This is the band you see at parades like the Oakley Almond Festival in September or the one that is out performing during football games. Along with the marching band, the Freedom High School Band Boosters also work with the concert, symphonic, jazz and orchestra bands, as well as the color guard throughout the year.
Just like everyone else who seems to be in need this year, the band boosters work throughout the year to raise money to help offset the cost of uniform repairs, transportation costs and feeding the students when they go to away parades and activities.
"We haven't done a lot of fundraising because there are so many groups on campus that do fundraising," Lewis said.
Last weekend the group did a small fundraiser at the March-a-thon. Since they were feeding the kids anyway, which they do for free, they invited families and friends to pay a small fee and enjoy the barbecue and a little entertainment by watching the kids run through their drills.
"We don't make that much on this, but it is fun for the families and friends to see what the kids are doing," Lewis said.
During the year the group also hosts bake sales, sometimes sells items at football games and maybe holds a silent auction or two.
While fundraising is important to the group, the primary concern of the boosters is to support the kids. For Lewis, one of the most important jobs of the group is to supply water for the band members through the performances.
"Shows like the Almond Festival can be very hot, and the kids can get dehydrated quickly so we make sure they get their fill of bottled water throughout the parade," she said.
The boosters are just one support team for each Freedom band and color guard. There are also separate student councils for the band and the color guard.
For Freedom Band Booster Vice President Lisa Harvard Brizendine, being a "band groupie" for the past four years while her son Brandon has been playing trumpet in the marching band and guitar in the jazz band, has been a great experience. She is impressed with the talent and dedication of all the students.
"The Freedom High School band is a great resource in the community," Harvard Brizendine said. "The kids in band really work together to learn new songs and perfect their sections. "
Reach Roni Gehlke at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
For the Contra Costa Times
Last weekend while football players practiced skirmishes out on the field, Freedom High School marching band and color guard students dedicated long hours to practicing their routines at its annual March-a-thon. Each year the bands get together for a weekend of workouts and practices to get ready for the fall marching band competitions, parades and home football games.
The students dedicate a lot of time in learning their instruments and choreographed routines, but behind every talented student on the field or in the parade are the booster clubs that help them get to games, raise funds and supply them with uniforms.
For the Freedom Band Boosters, that includes helping nearly 100 students in getting organized for not only this season, but also for a full year's worth of activities.
"Basically, we're a team of parent volunteers checking to make sure students are dressed, hydrated and fed," Annette Lewis, treasurer for the band boosters said. "In other words, we're a group of parents who parent the whole group."
One of the most recognizable bands in a high school is usually the marching band. This is the band you see at parades like the Oakley Almond Festival in September or the one that is out performing during football games. Along with the marching band, the Freedom High School Band Boosters also work with the concert, symphonic, jazz and orchestra bands, as well as the color guard throughout the year.
Just like everyone else who seems to be in need this year, the band boosters work throughout the year to raise money to help offset the cost of uniform repairs, transportation costs and feeding the students when they go to away parades and activities.
"We haven't done a lot of fundraising because there are so many groups on campus that do fundraising," Lewis said.
Last weekend the group did a small fundraiser at the March-a-thon. Since they were feeding the kids anyway, which they do for free, they invited families and friends to pay a small fee and enjoy the barbecue and a little entertainment by watching the kids run through their drills.
"We don't make that much on this, but it is fun for the families and friends to see what the kids are doing," Lewis said.
During the year the group also hosts bake sales, sometimes sells items at football games and maybe holds a silent auction or two.
While fundraising is important to the group, the primary concern of the boosters is to support the kids. For Lewis, one of the most important jobs of the group is to supply water for the band members through the performances.
"Shows like the Almond Festival can be very hot, and the kids can get dehydrated quickly so we make sure they get their fill of bottled water throughout the parade," she said.
The boosters are just one support team for each Freedom band and color guard. There are also separate student councils for the band and the color guard.
For Freedom Band Booster Vice President Lisa Harvard Brizendine, being a "band groupie" for the past four years while her son Brandon has been playing trumpet in the marching band and guitar in the jazz band, has been a great experience. She is impressed with the talent and dedication of all the students.
"The Freedom High School band is a great resource in the community," Harvard Brizendine said. "The kids in band really work together to learn new songs and perfect their sections. "
Reach Roni Gehlke at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Reunited 10,000 miles away from home
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
In a country half a world away, two Brentwood brothers reunited amid a backdrop of searing heat and desert sand. The occasion was not intended to be a combat mission but rather a celebration to honor Rafael Borrayo's promotion to U.S. Army major.
The army flew Army Specialist Antonio Borrayo, who is stationed just outside of Baghdad to southern Iraq where Rafael is stationed, to not only witness the pinning ceremony of his brother, but also to participate.
"My brother and I are two opposite individuals; he chose to stay close to home and help my parents run the family business and I left at age 16 to a navy school in Florida," Rafael said. "So to see him here in Iraq and have him pin on the rank of major was just amazing."
In January of this year, Rafael was sent on a 400-day deployment to a small area near Basrah Provence in southern Iraq to serve for the third time in the Middle East. Just a few months earlier, in November, Antonio was deployed for his first time to Northern Iraq for 400 days. Both brothers will still be overseas for several months to come.
"It was awesome," Antonio said about the ceremony. "My brother has had many ceremonies before, but I haven't had the chance to attend a lot of them. But for me to have the opportunity to not only to see him get promoted, but to be the one to pin his rank on him, that was cool. Not too many people would have an opportunity to pin a family member in the military."
Antonio was the only relative at Rafael's promotion ceremony, but Rafael said he was fine with that.
"Two days after my brother left, we got hit with rockets," Rafael said. "We also get occasional small-arms fire and mortars. So I was happy my brother had left. I would never want anyone I loved to come out here. Though if it (the ceremony) was in the states, it would have been great to have the family."
While the brothers were together they got a chance to speak with their mother on the telephone.
"I know my mom has been so worried about us, well mainly Tony, because he is momma's boy and has been next to her his whole life," Rafael said. "So when we received the opportunity to call our mom, via phone, together, mom just broke down and sounded so happy to hear from us both."
The brothers' parents, Maria and Rafael Borrayo, are the owners of El Gallito, one of the oldest Mexican restaurants in Brentwood.
Since it is relatively hard to get to Rafael's location in Iraq, the brothers spend some extra time together after the ceremony. Rafael also was proud to be able to use Antonio's expertise for a mission during his stay.
"He flew in hours before my bimonthly briefing to Gen. Dragon regarding my mission out here," Rafael said. "My mission was to conduct a security assessment of a designated target location in a small city named Umm Qasr. Since my brother was an engineer, I took advantage of his skill sets and scheduled him for the mission."
Rafael said that where he is the conditions are always "red," a military code meaning weapons are loaded and round in chamber. He said it was nice to see his brother in action and he would want to have him by his side if they ran into trouble.
"The mission went well, and at the conclusion of his stay, the operations officer for my task force awarded him with a combat patch of U.S. Forces Iraq," Rafael said.
As an Army paratrooper working for Civil Affairs Special Operations Battalion, Rafael said he has to meet high physical standards. During their time together, Rafael also took Antonio to work out at the gym and on his daily four-mile run in 100-plus-degree weather.
"He did not make the run, but he pushed on like a soldier for two miles," Rafael said.
This may be the last time Rafael and Antonio get to see each other during this tour in Iraq, but Antonio is waiting for a promotion to sergeant and hoping that Rafael will be able to return the favor and attend his ceremony and pin him.
"To be 10,000 miles away and be able to see a family member out here is a little happiness. I was glad to see him. It just made this deployment better," Antonio said. "Maybe it was just for a few days, but it was time well spent with a family member. We've never been so close until I joined the Army. Now we have something in common."
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