By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Thousands of people will participate in the walk-a-thon in an effort to help raise money for breast cancer research. "Each one of those people walking has their own personal reason," Tesler, 54, said. "It is hard to find someone who hasn't been affected by cancer in some way."
For Tesler it all started because four of her aunts were diagnosed with cancer. Of the four sisters, three died before the age of 40.
"Two of the sisters had breast cancer," she said. "When Avon came up with this walk, I had to do it."
Tesler's first walk was 12 years ago when she walked from Santa Barbara to Malibu. That walk lasted for three days.
The next walk she took was 10 years ago in San Francisco. At the time she not only walked for her aunts but for a friend who died from cancer three days before the walk.
"This is something we can do to bring awareness to the cause. Everywhere someone has a daughter or a niece who was hurt by this disease. We are doing something," Tesler said.
Before each of these walks each of the participants is asked to raise money to donate to breast cancer research. As a team, Tesler and Kohler, otherwise known as the California Dreamin' team, have made a goal to raise $5,000 from friends and family who supported their efforts. Last week they were nearly there with Tesler raising $2,130 and Kohler raising $2,300.
Tesler has already walked in the New York marathon once and is excited about getting the chance to complete the walk again. Despite having foot surgery earlier this year, she has been able to walk every other day or so. As of last week she and Kohler were up to walking 18 miles in one day.
This time Tesler isn't only walking in the memory of her aunts and friend, but another friend who died in January. Antioch's Renee Mercado was well-known to the Antioch community, having worked at Deer Valley High School. Tesler and Mercado went to high school together in Antioch and remained friends over the years.
Kohler was also a friend of Mercado. She has walked with Tesler in the past and is happy to help the cause in New York. She also walked in the Avon Walks for Breast Cancer in 2000 and in 2006.
"This year, I will be walking in memory of an old friend, Linda Dupree, who fought breast cancer for many years and ultimately lost her battle in 2006 on the very weekend we were walking in New York," Kohler said.
Kohler said that she would also be walking in memory of her longtime friend Jimmy Matejeck, who passed away after a battle with cancer in August 2009.
"During my training and walk, I will also be honoring my friend Tami and my cousin Stephanie, two strong women survivors and warriors in the fight against breast cancer," Kohler said.
Kohler said that the Avon Foundation funds both local and national organizations in five key areas: medical research, education and early detection programs, clinical care and support services, all with a focus on the medically underserved.
To help the California Dreamin' team make its goal, donations can be sent directly to www.avonwalk.org. Go to "donate," enter either Betsy Kohler or Annette Tesler where indicated and follow the prompts.
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
Work continues toward bringing health care clinic to Oakley
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
OAKLEY -- For 25 years, Maria Juanita Fernandez has lived with diabetes, which she said requires significant care that is difficult to afford without insurance.
"Diabetes is like cancer. It starts damaging parts of your body a little bit at a time," Fernandez told a standing-room-only audience Sept. 15 to discuss plans to bring a health care clinic to the city.
Three years ago, Fernandez said she had a wound on her foot because of complications from diabetes. Because she could not afford the treatment, she didn't immediately seek medical attention for the injury, and had to have her toe amputated.
With no insurance, Fernandez was given a $34,000 bill for her treatment. She was able to pay $6,000 before she had to stop working because of health reasons.
Only six months later, she had another lesion on her toe that would not heal. This time, she went to Mexico and was charged $100 for treatment. Three months ago, she had another toe amputated.
"We need a clinic here in Oakley," she said through a translator. "Many of the people my age can't drive and can't get to other clinics out of town. We deserve to have preventive care in this situation."
Stories like Fernandez's inspired a group at St. Anthony Church to look into why the city, home to more than 36,000 residents, does not have a doctor's office, much less a clinic to help the uninsured.
Over the past five years, Contra Costa Interfaith Supporting Community Organization (CCISCO) has worked with city leaders and several local legislators to open a clinic in Oakley with the help of an Oakland-based organization, La Clinica. La Clinica is preparing to sign a lease on a space in Cypress Square Plaza off Main Street by Big Break Road.
At last week's forum, CCISCO representatives honored several contributors and volunteers for their effort to bring the clinic to Oakley. They also said they are $163,562 from reaching their fundraising goal.
"We have received many generous donations," CCISCO co-chairwoman Iris Gomez said.
So far, the group has racked up $915,000 through several large contributors, including John Muir Health Foundations ($450,000), Sutter Delta Medical Center ($200,000) and Kaiser Permanente ($40,000).
Gomez said the group is waiting for Kaiser's national board of directors to sign off on an additional $500,000 grant that will not only help the clinic open its doors but also provide the needed funds to sustain the operation for the next three years.
"Kaiser is the key," Oakley City Manager Bryan Montgomery said.
He said that if the grant comes through, the clinic could open its doors early next year.
Additional funding would be necessary for the clinic to stay open. One option for funding could be the federal health care bill signed into law in March.
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act allows for money to support clinics in communities throughout the nation. Supporters of the Oakley clinic hope that their community will be one of them. The federal grants will not be decided until next summer.
Help from local leaders would be needed to obtain the funding, Montgomery said. Gomez encouraged residents to continue writing letters to let legislators know of the need for a clinic in Oakley.
The clinic will offer an array of medical services, including prenatal care and referrals to specialists. Most important to organizers here, La Clinica will make special efforts to accommodate low-income residents. The clinic will help new patients access state and federal health care funds, and offer services on a sliding-fee scale.
For the Contra Costa Times
OAKLEY -- For 25 years, Maria Juanita Fernandez has lived with diabetes, which she said requires significant care that is difficult to afford without insurance.
"Diabetes is like cancer. It starts damaging parts of your body a little bit at a time," Fernandez told a standing-room-only audience Sept. 15 to discuss plans to bring a health care clinic to the city.
Three years ago, Fernandez said she had a wound on her foot because of complications from diabetes. Because she could not afford the treatment, she didn't immediately seek medical attention for the injury, and had to have her toe amputated.
With no insurance, Fernandez was given a $34,000 bill for her treatment. She was able to pay $6,000 before she had to stop working because of health reasons.
Only six months later, she had another lesion on her toe that would not heal. This time, she went to Mexico and was charged $100 for treatment. Three months ago, she had another toe amputated.
"We need a clinic here in Oakley," she said through a translator. "Many of the people my age can't drive and can't get to other clinics out of town. We deserve to have preventive care in this situation."
Stories like Fernandez's inspired a group at St. Anthony Church to look into why the city, home to more than 36,000 residents, does not have a doctor's office, much less a clinic to help the uninsured.
Over the past five years, Contra Costa Interfaith Supporting Community Organization (CCISCO) has worked with city leaders and several local legislators to open a clinic in Oakley with the help of an Oakland-based organization, La Clinica. La Clinica is preparing to sign a lease on a space in Cypress Square Plaza off Main Street by Big Break Road.
At last week's forum, CCISCO representatives honored several contributors and volunteers for their effort to bring the clinic to Oakley. They also said they are $163,562 from reaching their fundraising goal.
"We have received many generous donations," CCISCO co-chairwoman Iris Gomez said.
So far, the group has racked up $915,000 through several large contributors, including John Muir Health Foundations ($450,000), Sutter Delta Medical Center ($200,000) and Kaiser Permanente ($40,000).
Gomez said the group is waiting for Kaiser's national board of directors to sign off on an additional $500,000 grant that will not only help the clinic open its doors but also provide the needed funds to sustain the operation for the next three years.
"Kaiser is the key," Oakley City Manager Bryan Montgomery said.
He said that if the grant comes through, the clinic could open its doors early next year.
Additional funding would be necessary for the clinic to stay open. One option for funding could be the federal health care bill signed into law in March.
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act allows for money to support clinics in communities throughout the nation. Supporters of the Oakley clinic hope that their community will be one of them. The federal grants will not be decided until next summer.
Help from local leaders would be needed to obtain the funding, Montgomery said. Gomez encouraged residents to continue writing letters to let legislators know of the need for a clinic in Oakley.
The clinic will offer an array of medical services, including prenatal care and referrals to specialists. Most important to organizers here, La Clinica will make special efforts to accommodate low-income residents. The clinic will help new patients access state and federal health care funds, and offer services on a sliding-fee scale.
Neighbor: Carlile is honored for her work at Knightsen Elementary
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
When Kay Carlile first heard that she had been named Knightsen School District's teacher of the year she was surprised and honored to receive the award. Although she has worked with the district for many years she started working as a full time teacher in 2005.
Carlile first came to the district in 1997 watching over students as a yard duty worker. For many years she also worked as a substitute teacher, including taking over one teacher's class every Friday.
It wasn't until 2005 that she decided to work for her credential and teach full-time for the school district.
"In 2005 I spent half day teaching kindergarten and working on my credential," she said.
In 2006 Carlile was hired on full time, teaching a combination classroom that was set up to teach kindergartners and first-graders. During the past few years she has been working on a character program. The program is devised to help teach children good character traits starting at a young age.
"Most schools have a character program like this of some kind," she said. "It kind of went away for a while, but it is needed more and more now. A program like this needs to be in the kids' language."
Carlile studied a program called "The Leader in Me" through UC San Diego. The program features "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People." Carlile said essentially the idea is to help students develop skills and self-confidence to succeed as leaders in the 21st century. By doing that it decreases discipline referrals, teaches and develops character and leadership, improves academic achievement and raises levels of accountability.
Carlile said that she loves working with children this age and seeing the changes they make in just one year.
"When these children come to me they don't really even know how to hold a book," she said. "By the end of the year they are reading and seeing that is exciting."
Carlile raised her own two boys, who are now off at college. She worked in the Knightsen 4-H with her sons and was a leader and camp director for two years.
Now that her children are grown and out of the house, she feels she is starting a new stage in her life and she is working on ideas of what to do next.
"It's an odd feeling not having them in the house all the time anymore," she said.
In the meantime, she is enjoying the new school year and getting to know the new children who are now having their first experiences in elementary school.
For the Contra Costa Times
When Kay Carlile first heard that she had been named Knightsen School District's teacher of the year she was surprised and honored to receive the award. Although she has worked with the district for many years she started working as a full time teacher in 2005.
Carlile first came to the district in 1997 watching over students as a yard duty worker. For many years she also worked as a substitute teacher, including taking over one teacher's class every Friday.
It wasn't until 2005 that she decided to work for her credential and teach full-time for the school district.
"In 2005 I spent half day teaching kindergarten and working on my credential," she said.
In 2006 Carlile was hired on full time, teaching a combination classroom that was set up to teach kindergartners and first-graders. During the past few years she has been working on a character program. The program is devised to help teach children good character traits starting at a young age.
"Most schools have a character program like this of some kind," she said. "It kind of went away for a while, but it is needed more and more now. A program like this needs to be in the kids' language."
Carlile studied a program called "The Leader in Me" through UC San Diego. The program features "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People." Carlile said essentially the idea is to help students develop skills and self-confidence to succeed as leaders in the 21st century. By doing that it decreases discipline referrals, teaches and develops character and leadership, improves academic achievement and raises levels of accountability.
Carlile said that she loves working with children this age and seeing the changes they make in just one year.
"When these children come to me they don't really even know how to hold a book," she said. "By the end of the year they are reading and seeing that is exciting."
Carlile raised her own two boys, who are now off at college. She worked in the Knightsen 4-H with her sons and was a leader and camp director for two years.
Now that her children are grown and out of the house, she feels she is starting a new stage in her life and she is working on ideas of what to do next.
"It's an odd feeling not having them in the house all the time anymore," she said.
In the meantime, she is enjoying the new school year and getting to know the new children who are now having their first experiences in elementary school.
Five years later, little girl's memory lives on
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
You won't find a memorial plaque on a new sandbox at the school where 5-year-old Sophia Favalora previously attended. Instead, you will see dozens of kindergartners laughing, playing and building sand castles at Laurel School and only a small heart-shaped tile with her name inscribed.
When a car accident claimed the life of Sophia in August 2005, donations poured in from family, friends and strangers. Her grief-stricken parents were grateful, but had no idea what to do with the money.
"At first we didn't know what to do with the money," Sophia's father, Frank Favalora, said. The donations equaled $16,000.
"I remembered Sophia telling me that there wasn't anything she liked about the school playground," Favalora said.
When Favalora went to the school to see for himself, the school principal told him that there was a new rule that the sand that used to be under the swings had to be replaced with a special foam material.
"The kids loved playing with the sand, but safety codes said we couldn't have the sand anymore," said Mimi Curran, principal of Laurel School.
With the decision made, Favalora set out to make a structure that was more than just a simple square sandbox. The end result is approximately 45-by-20 feet with a igure-eight shape.
"Sophia loved animals, so there are animal structures where the children can climb," Curran said, talking about an oversized sculpture of a frog and a turtle.
The said box is lined with two-foot walls where the children can sit or line sand trucks up and drive around the structure.
"The kids just love driving the cars around," kindergarten teacher Lisa Odum said. "The sandbox keeps the kids busy. It has been a blessing having it here."
Odum said that it is more than just something to keep the kids occupied during a break. The children don't even realize that they are learning while playing.
The sandbox holds a water feature that is similar to a water fountain. The children have to push a button and water pours along a wooden grade the sends a little water fall down into the dirt area.
"The children take turns. One has to push the button while another collects the water at the end of the trail. This provides socializing skills, learning to take turns, sharing tasks and teamwork," Odum said.
The walls of the sandbox are painted with child-friendly art, including lots of greenery and animals. The outside wall, which is seen from the street, holds several mosaic designs featuring turtles and butterflies.
At first there was opposition and delays in the project because of the worry that the sand and water would track too much dirt back into the classroom, but both Curran and Odum said that it hasn't been an issue at all.
"The kids are very good about cleaning themselves off before they come inside," Curran said. "It is really a fabulous feature to have for the children."
The sandbox project was finally completed last year and the water feature was added later. After a little tweaking, the project is finally finished.
"We didn't want to put a plaque on the sandbox because we didn't want it to be a sad place for the children," Favalora said. "We do want to let everyone who donated the money know that it went to a good cause."
Neighbor: Top Antioch teacher Kasey Graham keeps her classes creative
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Keeping her classes creative is just part of the reason why Graham was not only chosen as this year's Antioch Teacher of the Year, but also the recipient of Antioch's Mary Allan Fellows Award.
"When we read the classics, the students get to do projects that have some medical relationship to them," Graham said. "When we read 'Of Mice and Men,' the students write a story on the medical condition of one of the lead characters."
When the students read "Romeo and Juliet," the students were assigned a report on teenage hormones and finding love a first sight. Graham said that the students generally read the same books as the other high schools within the district, with the exception of a book called "Chew on This," which relates to information related to eating fast food.
"We don't add medical every day," she said. "The point is to keep the students well-rounded."
Graham has been teaching for 17 years, coming to the Antioch Unified School District in 1999. Her first assignment was at the Black Diamond Middle School where she taught special education. In 2002 she began teaching eighth-grade English at Park Middle School. During the 2006 school year she worked as the interim vice principal at Park.
When Dozier-Libbey opened in 2008, Graham transferred to the school with the English department. She was able to come to the school with many of her former eighth-graders. At first she taught ninth-grade English. Last year she moved with those students to teach 10th grade, and this year she teaches that same level.
Graham said she is always involved in extra activities at school. This year she is working with the leadership students, as well as volunteering with the yearbook committee.
When she was working in the middle school she implemented both the Washington, D.C., and Europe trips for students. Those programs are still available today.
Graham said that she is a tough teacher and the students respect her for that.
"My strength is connecting well with the students," she said. "I have high standards and a tough curriculum and still have a good rapport with my students."
While Dozier-Libbey is a pathway school with an emphasis on the sciences, Graham said that the program isn't limited to students who will continue on in science or a medical profession.
Not all the students have to have a high grade point average or high IQ, and some students need help with motivation and their studies, Graham said. Even so, Graham said she has seen many of them become more motivated over time.
"The fun part is watching them realize their own potential," she said.
At the end of last month, Graham was surprised to be the winner of the Mary Allan Fellows Award. The award is given by the Antioch's Schools Education Foundation to recognize outstanding teachers who demonstrated innovation and dedication to the teaching profession.
The award is named after Mary Allan, who was the 1991 California Teacher of the year. Allan taught third and fourth grades at Antioch schools for 20 years before retiring.
"It was a nice award," Graham said. "Along with the award comes with some money to dedicate to the classroom. That is always welcome."
Graham is an Antioch resident and the mother of five. She is a fitness fanatic and enjoys taking her own children hiking and to sporting activities. All of her children are involved in local sports.
Graham said that she enjoys being a good role model for her students.
"I like being a person that lets them see they have an amazing potential," she said.
For the Contra Costa Times
Keeping her classes creative is just part of the reason why Graham was not only chosen as this year's Antioch Teacher of the Year, but also the recipient of Antioch's Mary Allan Fellows Award.
"When we read the classics, the students get to do projects that have some medical relationship to them," Graham said. "When we read 'Of Mice and Men,' the students write a story on the medical condition of one of the lead characters."
When the students read "Romeo and Juliet," the students were assigned a report on teenage hormones and finding love a first sight. Graham said that the students generally read the same books as the other high schools within the district, with the exception of a book called "Chew on This," which relates to information related to eating fast food.
"We don't add medical every day," she said. "The point is to keep the students well-rounded."
Graham has been teaching for 17 years, coming to the Antioch Unified School District in 1999. Her first assignment was at the Black Diamond Middle School where she taught special education. In 2002 she began teaching eighth-grade English at Park Middle School. During the 2006 school year she worked as the interim vice principal at Park.
When Dozier-Libbey opened in 2008, Graham transferred to the school with the English department. She was able to come to the school with many of her former eighth-graders. At first she taught ninth-grade English. Last year she moved with those students to teach 10th grade, and this year she teaches that same level.
Graham said she is always involved in extra activities at school. This year she is working with the leadership students, as well as volunteering with the yearbook committee.
When she was working in the middle school she implemented both the Washington, D.C., and Europe trips for students. Those programs are still available today.
Graham said that she is a tough teacher and the students respect her for that.
"My strength is connecting well with the students," she said. "I have high standards and a tough curriculum and still have a good rapport with my students."
While Dozier-Libbey is a pathway school with an emphasis on the sciences, Graham said that the program isn't limited to students who will continue on in science or a medical profession.
Not all the students have to have a high grade point average or high IQ, and some students need help with motivation and their studies, Graham said. Even so, Graham said she has seen many of them become more motivated over time.
"The fun part is watching them realize their own potential," she said.
At the end of last month, Graham was surprised to be the winner of the Mary Allan Fellows Award. The award is given by the Antioch's Schools Education Foundation to recognize outstanding teachers who demonstrated innovation and dedication to the teaching profession.
The award is named after Mary Allan, who was the 1991 California Teacher of the year. Allan taught third and fourth grades at Antioch schools for 20 years before retiring.
"It was a nice award," Graham said. "Along with the award comes with some money to dedicate to the classroom. That is always welcome."
Graham is an Antioch resident and the mother of five. She is a fitness fanatic and enjoys taking her own children hiking and to sporting activities. All of her children are involved in local sports.
Graham said that she enjoys being a good role model for her students.
"I like being a person that lets them see they have an amazing potential," she said.
Neighbor: Top BUSD teacher believes in all-inclusive approach
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Brentwood teacher Lori Leach believes that teaching well-rounded students is a team effort. As a special education teacher at R. Paul Krey Elementary School and Brentwood Elementary School District's Teacher of the Year, she knows that all stages of education are important and that using as team approach and working diligently is the only way to prepare students for middle school.
"One of the best parts about teaching at Krey is that we work in a collaborative environment," Leach said.
As part of the special education department at Krey, Leach works with fourth- and fifth-grade students. The special education program at Krey works with an all-inclusive approach. Instead of having special education students leave the classroom to get special instruction, the students are kept in the regular classrooms and the special education teachers go to them.
Leach likes this approach much better than having the children taken out of the classroom.
"When singled out and having them leave the classroom the message can say 'I'm not held accountable, and then as an adult they aren't ready to be accountable. Our way shows children they are accountable," Leach said.
Leach said the team at Krey really believes in this approach to learning. "The students are very successful here," she said. "We are very blessed at this school. The students are amazing and work hard."
Leach has been working at Krey since it opened in 2001. Before that she worked in the special education department for the Byron Union School District.
When she first moved to Krey she was asked to start up the inclusive program for the school. She developed the model for the program and trained the instructional advisers. She spent time investigating components from several other successful programs.
Over the years she has also worked on several other programs
For the Contra Costa Times
Brentwood teacher Lori Leach believes that teaching well-rounded students is a team effort. As a special education teacher at R. Paul Krey Elementary School and Brentwood Elementary School District's Teacher of the Year, she knows that all stages of education are important and that using as team approach and working diligently is the only way to prepare students for middle school.
"One of the best parts about teaching at Krey is that we work in a collaborative environment," Leach said.
As part of the special education department at Krey, Leach works with fourth- and fifth-grade students. The special education program at Krey works with an all-inclusive approach. Instead of having special education students leave the classroom to get special instruction, the students are kept in the regular classrooms and the special education teachers go to them.
Leach likes this approach much better than having the children taken out of the classroom.
"When singled out and having them leave the classroom the message can say 'I'm not held accountable, and then as an adult they aren't ready to be accountable. Our way shows children they are accountable," Leach said.
Leach said the team at Krey really believes in this approach to learning. "The students are very successful here," she said. "We are very blessed at this school. The students are amazing and work hard."
Leach has been working at Krey since it opened in 2001. Before that she worked in the special education department for the Byron Union School District.
When she first moved to Krey she was asked to start up the inclusive program for the school. She developed the model for the program and trained the instructional advisers. She spent time investigating components from several other successful programs.
Over the years she has also worked on several other programs
Teacher of year enjoys helping children grow
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
As far back as Kerry Flaherty can remember, she wanted to be an elementary school teacher. Her dream finally came true nine years ago when she began working for the Byron school district at Discovery Bay Elementary.
Since then, she has moved on to Timber Point Elementary School in Discovery Bay.
"I have always wanted to teach early elementary school," Flaherty said.
This year, she was named the district's teacher of the year.
Flaherty teaches second grade at Timber Point, and also has taught kindergarten and first grade. She said she was honored to be chosen for the award by her peers.
Flaherty has been instrumental in implementing the Early Intervention for School Success (EISS) program at Timber Point. She explained that the EISS program offers teachers and support staff tips for providing students with successful learning experiences.
The program is designed to help students' development through collaboration among the child's family, school and community.
"The program is essential by intervening with struggling readers and getting them help when they are young," Flaherty said.
Flaherty said second grade is such an important time in a child's education, as they are learning to read. She enjoys working with children and helping them grow and learn.
"Whether they are struggling or advanced, it is always an exciting process watching them improve their reading," she said.
While she likes teaching students how to read, she also enjoys teaching children all subjects at this age.
Flaherty said that many people think of Byron as a small school district with small classroom sizes, but that isn't the case. This year, the number of students in each classroom increased, but Flaherty believes the staff will excel nonetheless.
"We have a great staff at Timber Point," Flaherty said. "We have a wonderful, collaborative teaching community."
and activities for the elementary school. She said that involvement in a variety of programs is what makes the team approach work at Krey.
"There have been so many opportunities and experiences with students that have enriched my life," she said.
Leach was one of the three finalists in the Contra Costa County School District's Teacher of the Year Award competition. At the dinner two weeks ago she gave a speech where she told fellow colleagues and guests that it is important to focus on the students. (Michele Lamons, a Pinole Valley High School English and sign language teacher, was named the Contra Costa County teacher of the year.)
"Investing in relationships with the students makes the best effort for the children," she said.
Leach said working with students for the past nine years at Krey has provided many valuable lessons.
"So many stories we share as teachers every day. Sometimes there are big, important things we learn from students here and there, sometimes they are small milestones, still just as important," she said. "All of them make up a complete professional package."
For the Contra Costa Times
As far back as Kerry Flaherty can remember, she wanted to be an elementary school teacher. Her dream finally came true nine years ago when she began working for the Byron school district at Discovery Bay Elementary.
Since then, she has moved on to Timber Point Elementary School in Discovery Bay.
"I have always wanted to teach early elementary school," Flaherty said.
This year, she was named the district's teacher of the year.
Flaherty teaches second grade at Timber Point, and also has taught kindergarten and first grade. She said she was honored to be chosen for the award by her peers.
Flaherty has been instrumental in implementing the Early Intervention for School Success (EISS) program at Timber Point. She explained that the EISS program offers teachers and support staff tips for providing students with successful learning experiences.
The program is designed to help students' development through collaboration among the child's family, school and community.
"The program is essential by intervening with struggling readers and getting them help when they are young," Flaherty said.
Flaherty said second grade is such an important time in a child's education, as they are learning to read. She enjoys working with children and helping them grow and learn.
"Whether they are struggling or advanced, it is always an exciting process watching them improve their reading," she said.
While she likes teaching students how to read, she also enjoys teaching children all subjects at this age.
Flaherty said that many people think of Byron as a small school district with small classroom sizes, but that isn't the case. This year, the number of students in each classroom increased, but Flaherty believes the staff will excel nonetheless.
"We have a great staff at Timber Point," Flaherty said. "We have a wonderful, collaborative teaching community."
and activities for the elementary school. She said that involvement in a variety of programs is what makes the team approach work at Krey.
"There have been so many opportunities and experiences with students that have enriched my life," she said.
Leach was one of the three finalists in the Contra Costa County School District's Teacher of the Year Award competition. At the dinner two weeks ago she gave a speech where she told fellow colleagues and guests that it is important to focus on the students. (Michele Lamons, a Pinole Valley High School English and sign language teacher, was named the Contra Costa County teacher of the year.)
"Investing in relationships with the students makes the best effort for the children," she said.
Leach said working with students for the past nine years at Krey has provided many valuable lessons.
"So many stories we share as teachers every day. Sometimes there are big, important things we learn from students here and there, sometimes they are small milestones, still just as important," she said. "All of them make up a complete professional package."
Antioch family florist blossoms with new generation of owners
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of Business: Paula's Family Florist
Type of business: Florist
Owners: Christopher Trotta and Paula Franchetto-Trotta
Founded: March 2006
Address: 1412 A St., Antioch. The business is located in the "little, yellow house" on the corner of A and 15th streets.
Phone number: 925-756-6000
Website: www.paulasfamilyflorist.com
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday
Number of employees: family-owned and operated
Products and services: Paula's Family Florist features custom floral arrangements and plants for all occasions. The company specializes in wedding and sympathy work.
How did you get into the business?: The couple is the third generation in the florist business. It started with Paula's grandparents. "We are in the same building that my parents had their florist for over 30 years," Franchetto-Trotta said. "Combined, we have over 50 years in business."
Best part about the business: "Interacting with customers and creating floral designs that meet their visions," Franchetto-Trotta said.
Worst part about the business: Like many self-employed people, Paula Franchetto-Trotta says long hours are the worst part to a business.
Key to success: "Quality products, affordable pricing and superior customer service," she said.
Biggest misperception about the business: "People think that because the flowers are coming from a florist that they are too expensive. That is why a lot of people buy flowers from the grocery store," she said. "Really, that isn't true. We work hard to keep our prices competitive and economical."
Future plans: Fresh seasonal flowers come to the store on a regular basis. On Fridays, Paula's Family Florist sells a special bouquet of seasonal flowers for just $5 each.
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of Business: Paula's Family Florist
Type of business: Florist
Owners: Christopher Trotta and Paula Franchetto-Trotta
Founded: March 2006
Address: 1412 A St., Antioch. The business is located in the "little, yellow house" on the corner of A and 15th streets.
Phone number: 925-756-6000
Website: www.paulasfamilyflorist.com
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday
Number of employees: family-owned and operated
Products and services: Paula's Family Florist features custom floral arrangements and plants for all occasions. The company specializes in wedding and sympathy work.
How did you get into the business?: The couple is the third generation in the florist business. It started with Paula's grandparents. "We are in the same building that my parents had their florist for over 30 years," Franchetto-Trotta said. "Combined, we have over 50 years in business."
Best part about the business: "Interacting with customers and creating floral designs that meet their visions," Franchetto-Trotta said.
Worst part about the business: Like many self-employed people, Paula Franchetto-Trotta says long hours are the worst part to a business.
Key to success: "Quality products, affordable pricing and superior customer service," she said.
Biggest misperception about the business: "People think that because the flowers are coming from a florist that they are too expensive. That is why a lot of people buy flowers from the grocery store," she said. "Really, that isn't true. We work hard to keep our prices competitive and economical."
Future plans: Fresh seasonal flowers come to the store on a regular basis. On Fridays, Paula's Family Florist sells a special bouquet of seasonal flowers for just $5 each.
-- Roni Gehlke
Business spotlight: Oakley's Styled Home Consignment focuses on furniture
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Styled Home Consignment
Type of business: Home decor and furnishings
Owners: Wagma and Frank Safi
Founded: July 2010
Address: 3330 Main St., Oakley
Phone number: 925-679-3700
Hours: Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Number of employees: two
Products and services: Home furnishings, furniture, dining tables, gallery consignments, art imported from Europe and home decor. Styled Home Consignment offers a wide selection of new and gently used items.
"We have a lot of unique pieces that you aren't going to find in other local stores," Wagma Safi said. "Some of the pieces come from galleries that only had one item left and brought it to us."
How did you get into the business: "We never really planned to get into this business," Safi said. "I was going through a short sale on my house and had to sell off five bedrooms full of furniture and realized after I was done that I could have sold it for more with a little time on consignment somewhere."
One day the Safis were driving through Oakley from Brentwood and saw the store space for lease and decided to stop in and ask about it. In a matter of days the business idea was off the ground.
"There are so many people who are in the position I was in," she said. "I want to help them get the best price for their stuff."
Best part about the business?: "Meeting all the different people who come in looking to buy or not buying. I like talking to them and getting ideas from them," Safi said.
She also said that she is happy when she hears that her business is just what Oakley has needed.
Worst part about the business?: "All business has its ups and downs," Safi said. "It is hard to say that there is a bad thing about the business. Really it has been a blessing."
Key to success: "Customer service, making sure whoever walks in and walks out of the store is happy," she said. "People talk. A good reference from someone can mean a lot."
Biggest misperception about the business: The concept of a consignment store is hard for some people to understand, Safi said. She said that people are always interested in how the business works. She also said that people are surprised at some of the fine quality merchandise that is available.
Future plans: Safi is working with the local schools to help raise money for them. On certain days, schools will be able to earn 15 percent of sales. "I've lived in Oakley for six years and my children go to school here. I know how badly the schools need support and this is a way I can help," she said.
In the future she hopes to expand here business and even branch out into making it a chain store.
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Styled Home Consignment
Type of business: Home decor and furnishings
Owners: Wagma and Frank Safi
Founded: July 2010
Address: 3330 Main St., Oakley
Phone number: 925-679-3700
Hours: Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Number of employees: two
Products and services: Home furnishings, furniture, dining tables, gallery consignments, art imported from Europe and home decor. Styled Home Consignment offers a wide selection of new and gently used items.
"We have a lot of unique pieces that you aren't going to find in other local stores," Wagma Safi said. "Some of the pieces come from galleries that only had one item left and brought it to us."
How did you get into the business: "We never really planned to get into this business," Safi said. "I was going through a short sale on my house and had to sell off five bedrooms full of furniture and realized after I was done that I could have sold it for more with a little time on consignment somewhere."
One day the Safis were driving through Oakley from Brentwood and saw the store space for lease and decided to stop in and ask about it. In a matter of days the business idea was off the ground.
"There are so many people who are in the position I was in," she said. "I want to help them get the best price for their stuff."
Best part about the business?: "Meeting all the different people who come in looking to buy or not buying. I like talking to them and getting ideas from them," Safi said.
She also said that she is happy when she hears that her business is just what Oakley has needed.
Worst part about the business?: "All business has its ups and downs," Safi said. "It is hard to say that there is a bad thing about the business. Really it has been a blessing."
Key to success: "Customer service, making sure whoever walks in and walks out of the store is happy," she said. "People talk. A good reference from someone can mean a lot."
Biggest misperception about the business: The concept of a consignment store is hard for some people to understand, Safi said. She said that people are always interested in how the business works. She also said that people are surprised at some of the fine quality merchandise that is available.
Future plans: Safi is working with the local schools to help raise money for them. On certain days, schools will be able to earn 15 percent of sales. "I've lived in Oakley for six years and my children go to school here. I know how badly the schools need support and this is a way I can help," she said.
In the future she hopes to expand here business and even branch out into making it a chain store.
-- Roni Gehlke
Henry uses connections for festival lineup
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
In our "Neighbors" series, we give you a personal look at the people who are serving your community. If you would like to nominate someone for this column, contact Judy Prieve at 925-779-7178 or e-mail jprieve@bayareanewsgroup.com.
By Roni Gehlke
Correspondent
One of Chris Henry's first introductions to Oakley's Almond Festival was nearly 20 years ago when he was playing drums with a band named Express. Today his new band not only performs at the festival but he has taken over as entertainment coordinator for the festival's main stage.
"I can't believe it was that long ago," Henry said remembering all the times he played at the festival over the years.
His current band, Crosstown 5, will perform Friday on the festival's Main Stage before well-known Bay Area band Evolution comes on with its Journey tribute.
Henry said that over the years he has been involved with several bands. About four years ago he was asked by then Main Stage coordinator, John Robertson, to get involved in volunteering for the festival and he agreed.
"Over the years I've made a lot of associations with other bands," Henry said.
Now he uses those associations to find other bands to perform at the three-day show at Oakley's O'Hara Park.
"Evolution's lead singer John Singer and I used to be in a band together," Henry said. "When I found out he was in this tribute band, I knew they would be good for this festival."
Henry said that he wanted to open the festival with a really good show. For the last three years he has worked to make this time slot a concert-type environment.
"The carnival is going on for the kids, and the adults can take the time to sit back and enjoy some good music," he said.
Other entertainment this weekend will include a tribute band to Tom Petty called Petty Theft, as well as, Zebop, Ralph Woodson Experience, The Billy Martini Show, The Edwins Brothers, Rodeo House, Biernacki and The Illusions, and Red Light Mind.
Henry lives in Bethel Island with his wife, Teena. He has four children, Courtney, 22, and Josh, 19, Ethan, 6, and Chloe, 3.
The festival offers another reason to celebrate for him. Sept. 12 is daughter Chloe's birthday. Three years ago she was born just days before he was to set up the main stage for the festival.
For the Contra Costa Times
In our "Neighbors" series, we give you a personal look at the people who are serving your community. If you would like to nominate someone for this column, contact Judy Prieve at 925-779-7178 or e-mail jprieve@bayareanewsgroup.com.
By Roni Gehlke
Correspondent
One of Chris Henry's first introductions to Oakley's Almond Festival was nearly 20 years ago when he was playing drums with a band named Express. Today his new band not only performs at the festival but he has taken over as entertainment coordinator for the festival's main stage.
"I can't believe it was that long ago," Henry said remembering all the times he played at the festival over the years.
His current band, Crosstown 5, will perform Friday on the festival's Main Stage before well-known Bay Area band Evolution comes on with its Journey tribute.
Henry said that over the years he has been involved with several bands. About four years ago he was asked by then Main Stage coordinator, John Robertson, to get involved in volunteering for the festival and he agreed.
"Over the years I've made a lot of associations with other bands," Henry said.
Now he uses those associations to find other bands to perform at the three-day show at Oakley's O'Hara Park.
"Evolution's lead singer John Singer and I used to be in a band together," Henry said. "When I found out he was in this tribute band, I knew they would be good for this festival."
Henry said that he wanted to open the festival with a really good show. For the last three years he has worked to make this time slot a concert-type environment.
"The carnival is going on for the kids, and the adults can take the time to sit back and enjoy some good music," he said.
Other entertainment this weekend will include a tribute band to Tom Petty called Petty Theft, as well as, Zebop, Ralph Woodson Experience, The Billy Martini Show, The Edwins Brothers, Rodeo House, Biernacki and The Illusions, and Red Light Mind.
Henry lives in Bethel Island with his wife, Teena. He has four children, Courtney, 22, and Josh, 19, Ethan, 6, and Chloe, 3.
The festival offers another reason to celebrate for him. Sept. 12 is daughter Chloe's birthday. Three years ago she was born just days before he was to set up the main stage for the festival.
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