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.
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.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Business Spotlight: New Oakley barber shop offers unique services
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Mac Tyme Mobile Barber and Supply
Type of business: Barbershop
Owner: Bill McCall
Founded: June 2009
Address: 3639 Main St., Oakley
Phone number: Shop at 925-709-4247; Appointments at 510-253-6381
Hours: Sunday to Monday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Number of employees: one
Products and services: Mac Tyme offers barber services and supplies inside the store, as well as a mobile service. The business also supplies shoe shines, hairstyles like designs, lines, fades, tapers, Afros and more.
McCall also is working on offering an apprentice program to help troubled youth and adults learn a trade.
How did you get into the business: McCall said that being a barber was a childhood dream for him. It takes many hours of learning and working in an apprentice type program to become licensed, he said.
McCall worked as a barber for another shop in Pittsburg. He briefly owned another shop in Oakland before moving to Oakley last year. He knew that he had to be unique in the services offered, so he decided to add the mobile service to the shop.
"Mobile services are mainly for the elderly and homebound people who can't get to the shop," he said. McCall said that adding this service has been very helpful to those in need.
Best part about the business?: McCall likes the idea of having an old-fashioned barbershop where
people come and hang out and enjoy their time in the relaxed environment. He plays 1970s music, not rap, because it was the music he grew up with and it is calming for the customers, he said.
He also said he likes the gratification of knowing that he has done a good job.
As a recent widower, McCall also likes having a business where he can bring his young children to work with him. He hopes that by having them close by he can also interest them in the barber field and pass the business down to them when the time comes.
"I'm making something for the future and getting them involved in the business -- a place they can be proud of and they can carry on for themselves," he said.
Worst part about the business?: "I've really thought about this question and there really is no worst part. I love what I'm doing," he said.
Key to success: McCall said that it is very important to build a good reputation in the community to become a successful barber. He said it is also important to have one's life in order and to prioritize one's time.
"When I first started I worked 12 to 14 hour days," he said. "I used to sweep outside in front of the shop at 6:30 in the morning and watched traffic go by. Soon people started stopping in and talking to me."
Biggest misperception about the business: "A barber doesn't know how to do hairstyling or to do women's hair is a big misperception," he said.
McCall said that when barbers are licensed they learn how to do all kinds of hairstyling. They learn a lot of the same techniques that the hair salon stylists do.
Future plans: McCall really wants to get his apprentice program going in full swing. He's hoping the program can even go national, hoping that others will see the value of teaching troubled individuals a trade to help change their future.
"The slogan of my business is 'Changing The World One Cut At A Time'," he said. "Right now I'm starting with Oakley and then I'll move on from there."
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Mac Tyme Mobile Barber and Supply
Type of business: Barbershop
Owner: Bill McCall
Founded: June 2009
Address: 3639 Main St., Oakley
Phone number: Shop at 925-709-4247; Appointments at 510-253-6381
Hours: Sunday to Monday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Number of employees: one
Products and services: Mac Tyme offers barber services and supplies inside the store, as well as a mobile service. The business also supplies shoe shines, hairstyles like designs, lines, fades, tapers, Afros and more.
McCall also is working on offering an apprentice program to help troubled youth and adults learn a trade.
How did you get into the business: McCall said that being a barber was a childhood dream for him. It takes many hours of learning and working in an apprentice type program to become licensed, he said.
McCall worked as a barber for another shop in Pittsburg. He briefly owned another shop in Oakland before moving to Oakley last year. He knew that he had to be unique in the services offered, so he decided to add the mobile service to the shop.
"Mobile services are mainly for the elderly and homebound people who can't get to the shop," he said. McCall said that adding this service has been very helpful to those in need.
Best part about the business?: McCall likes the idea of having an old-fashioned barbershop where
people come and hang out and enjoy their time in the relaxed environment. He plays 1970s music, not rap, because it was the music he grew up with and it is calming for the customers, he said.
He also said he likes the gratification of knowing that he has done a good job.
As a recent widower, McCall also likes having a business where he can bring his young children to work with him. He hopes that by having them close by he can also interest them in the barber field and pass the business down to them when the time comes.
"I'm making something for the future and getting them involved in the business -- a place they can be proud of and they can carry on for themselves," he said.
Worst part about the business?: "I've really thought about this question and there really is no worst part. I love what I'm doing," he said.
Key to success: McCall said that it is very important to build a good reputation in the community to become a successful barber. He said it is also important to have one's life in order and to prioritize one's time.
"When I first started I worked 12 to 14 hour days," he said. "I used to sweep outside in front of the shop at 6:30 in the morning and watched traffic go by. Soon people started stopping in and talking to me."
Biggest misperception about the business: "A barber doesn't know how to do hairstyling or to do women's hair is a big misperception," he said.
McCall said that when barbers are licensed they learn how to do all kinds of hairstyling. They learn a lot of the same techniques that the hair salon stylists do.
Future plans: McCall really wants to get his apprentice program going in full swing. He's hoping the program can even go national, hoping that others will see the value of teaching troubled individuals a trade to help change their future.
"The slogan of my business is 'Changing The World One Cut At A Time'," he said. "Right now I'm starting with Oakley and then I'll move on from there."
-- Roni Gehlke
Young Brentwood midget race car driver collects lots of wins
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Many great racecar drivers started out at young ages. It's not uncommon to hear stories like Sprint Car racers, Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart starting their career at age five racing quarter midget. That's the footsteps of legends that Brentwood's Blake Bower is hoping to follow as he works his way through California and the rest of the countries best quarter midget races.
Blake, 9, has been racing for the past four years. In 2009 he won 53 races, and so far this year he is winning steadily.
"We've had a lot of big wins this year," said Blake's father, Dave.
Dave Bower and his father before him also raced quarter midget when they were Blake's age.
Blake's racing is going so well this year, that the Hayward midget car manufacturer Rice Race Cars is sponsoring a car for him for the season. Bower says Blake is the only racer the company is currently fully sponsoring this year.
Blake is currently racing three different quarter midget cars in different divisions. That means that at one race he will generally race three times.
During his summer break from Garin Elementary school, Blake and his dad spent six weeks touring and competing in several races throughout the country. The main race being the second annual Battle at the Brickyard in Indiana in July for the 270 United States Auto Club Mopar Quarter Midget.
"Blake won two races at that race. The two races were the Junior Honda race and the Junior Stock race," Bower said. "There were 600 cars at this race with 65 of them in Blake's class."
Blake generally practices every weekend in all three cars. He also takes classes at LA Boxing in Brentwood four days a week, including two days of boxing and two days of jujitsu with Darcio Lira.
"Blake's been exercising with his sisters since he was 4," Bower said. "He's incredibly strong for his age and very athletic."
Bower said that racing is an expensive sport, and Blake has been working hard to win races in hopes to bring in some more major sponsors. Currently they have several good local sponsors, including Mountain Cascade in Livermore and Vornhagen Body and Paint in Brentwood, but he hopes that his high winning totals will attract sponsors who can bring in big donations.
There are several races coming up this fall that Blake is planning to attend, including the Winter National in Pahrump, Nev., which usually hosts more than 500 cars. There is also the Baylands Race in San Jose.
What has been really hard on Blake this year is that in July, he turned 9 years old, at which time he moved up from the junior to the senior level in quarter midgets. Blake isn't so worried about losing races. He'll have to work to catch up for the time he has missed on the senior level, because the junior race wins are good one-on-one, but don't count toward the accumulated senior level end goal championship.
For those interested in sponsoring Blake, e-mail his father at dbower@mountaincascade.com.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Deer Valley High teacher publishes book about coming of age
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
As a high school science teacher Jeff Adkins knows that a teacher is an important role model to teenagers. While that idea may have become clearer to him in the last 12 years of teaching at Deer Valley High School, the lesson was taught to him as a teenager himself after meeting a teacher who changed his life. His experiences during that time in his life became the inspiration of a newly published coming of age novel penned by Adkins called "The Boy Who Skipped".
After receiving a teacher award in 2007, Adkins was asked what prompted him to become a teacher.
"I remembered how my high school theater teacher had encouraged me to get into teaching and how my life was colored from that time period in my life," Adkins said.
It was then he decided to put his memories down on paper before too much time passed and he forgot all of the important details. He even went so far as to contact the teacher he remembered and asked her for her opinion.
Adkins calls "The Boy Who Skipped" an "almost" autobiography.
"Most of the story is about my life, but I've changed the names of the characters and combined two or three of the people into one character so it wouldn't be so complicated," he said.
In the book Adkins tells the story of a 13-year-old boy, renamed Jeff Mason, who lives within the Appalachia area of Eastern Kentucky where Adkins grew up in the 1970s. The story tells of the lonely life of a boy approaching his teen years living in the isolation of the Kentucky back hills.
The boy is invited to participate in his school's play, "The Taming of the Shrew." In the book Mason meets a fellow student and seeks her affection. As in Adkins' real life, the boy is helped by his drama teacher and mentor.
Adkins describes "The Boy Who Skipped" as a story of the underdog seeking to triumph against seemingly impossible odds," he said. "The novel is based on my life growing up as a science geek with a romantic heart."
While he believes young adults and older readers will enjoy this book, he said high school students would relate to it as well. While this book takes place more than 30 years ago, the references and emotions are still the same today.
This isn't the first writing endeavor for Adkins. He previously published informational books on astronomy. This book, however, is certainly written more from the heart, he said.
Next up, Adkins plans to work on the next book in his astronomy series. After that, he isn't sure if he will do another book like the "The Boy Who Skipped," but he said he did enjoy the experience of writing it.
Adkins said that he will be working to find places to do book signings and speak on the book in the next few months. To purchase a copy of the book go to the publisher's website at www.lulu.com/spotlight/astronomyteacher.
For the Contra Costa Times
As a high school science teacher Jeff Adkins knows that a teacher is an important role model to teenagers. While that idea may have become clearer to him in the last 12 years of teaching at Deer Valley High School, the lesson was taught to him as a teenager himself after meeting a teacher who changed his life. His experiences during that time in his life became the inspiration of a newly published coming of age novel penned by Adkins called "The Boy Who Skipped".
After receiving a teacher award in 2007, Adkins was asked what prompted him to become a teacher.
"I remembered how my high school theater teacher had encouraged me to get into teaching and how my life was colored from that time period in my life," Adkins said.
It was then he decided to put his memories down on paper before too much time passed and he forgot all of the important details. He even went so far as to contact the teacher he remembered and asked her for her opinion.
Adkins calls "The Boy Who Skipped" an "almost" autobiography.
"Most of the story is about my life, but I've changed the names of the characters and combined two or three of the people into one character so it wouldn't be so complicated," he said.
In the book Adkins tells the story of a 13-year-old boy, renamed Jeff Mason, who lives within the Appalachia area of Eastern Kentucky where Adkins grew up in the 1970s. The story tells of the lonely life of a boy approaching his teen years living in the isolation of the Kentucky back hills.
The boy is invited to participate in his school's play, "The Taming of the Shrew." In the book Mason meets a fellow student and seeks her affection. As in Adkins' real life, the boy is helped by his drama teacher and mentor.
Adkins describes "The Boy Who Skipped" as a story of the underdog seeking to triumph against seemingly impossible odds," he said. "The novel is based on my life growing up as a science geek with a romantic heart."
While he believes young adults and older readers will enjoy this book, he said high school students would relate to it as well. While this book takes place more than 30 years ago, the references and emotions are still the same today.
This isn't the first writing endeavor for Adkins. He previously published informational books on astronomy. This book, however, is certainly written more from the heart, he said.
Next up, Adkins plans to work on the next book in his astronomy series. After that, he isn't sure if he will do another book like the "The Boy Who Skipped," but he said he did enjoy the experience of writing it.
Adkins said that he will be working to find places to do book signings and speak on the book in the next few months. To purchase a copy of the book go to the publisher's website at www.lulu.com/spotlight/astronomyteacher.
Brentwood sculptor Cindy Williamson in prestigious San Francisco show
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
"Sculpting is one of the more time-consuming arts," she said. "Once I get my hands in the clay it is really fun and I want to do more of it. The longer process is really satisfying."
Over the past 10 years Williamson has moved from having fun with her art to taking it more seriously and showing her work at shows and competitions. She has been invited to show her art in the Ceramics Annual of America: Exhibition and Fair next month at Fort Mason in San Francisco.
"This is a very high-caliber show," Williamson said. "The art they show is from all over the country."
Williamson said she is honored to exhibit her work at this show.
Her art includes sculptures of animals and humans. Recently she has become interested in going to baseball games, which gave her the idea of making a sculpture of a baseball player. The first sculpture was made using a male model. Later she added a baseball uniform.
"The uniform is an impressionist view of the clothing," she said. She named the 36-inch statue "Bottom of the Ninth." She is currently working on a second baseball sculpture, but this time she is using a photo instead of a live model.
Williamson has exhibited extensively in Northern California in colleges and commercial galleries. Colleges and private collectors throughout the United States also own her work. She has won numerous awards, including the prestigious Laguna Clay Award at the 2008 California Clay Competition.
Williamson has been a Brentwood resident seven years. Before that she and her son lived in Antioch.
She also enjoys spending her time teaching sculpture in Brentwood elementary schools.
"It is such a treat to work with the kids," she said. "All day long they have to put pencil to paper, but when they get to put their hands in the clay their faces light up and they get so excited."
While working with the younger children she said she is amazed just how talented some of the children can be. She especially likes working with the special-needs children because sculpting is something they can do that they can have fun with and feel successful.
Aside from the Ceramics Annual of America, which takes place Sept. 10-12, Williamson's artwork can be viewed at a solo exhibit at the Eddie Rhodes Art Gallery at Contra Costa College in San Pablo from Oct. 24-Nov. 21.
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
Around Oakley: Beautification projects abound in city
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
An unofficial beautification plan must have been in effect in the city of Oakley for the past few weeks, as not only city streets are being improved, but also local churches and residences are starting to show off their shine. Just a quick drive around the small city limits reveals many improvements.
Over the past few years the decline in the economy has been evident by the many foreclosed homes throughout town. With no one living in the homes, front lawns started to go to weeds, despite the city's attempt to pass ordinances that would keep properties well-landscaped even if they were unoccupied.
Now, homes are being purchased and the new residents are taking an active interest in beautifying their landscaping. An added advantage is that the cooling temperatures are allowing spring and early summer flowers to stay in bloom longer. Longtime residents are also adding new landscaping to their properties.
Many of the local churches throughout town are finally able to complete projects that are adding visual appeal as well as space to their properties. The corner of O'Hara Avenue is looking vastly different these days with St. Anthony Church adding its new parking lot. The project is a big change for the church that for years only had a sand lot for parking.
The city will soon be adding a sidewalk in front of the church, which will be an even bigger improvement to the busy street corner.
Members of the New Lifeline World Ministries on Empire Avenue are finally getting to the finishing touches of their new buildings. The group has been working for several years to move from the prefabricated building on their lot into a new structure. They are currently working on parking and landscaping.
A fire destroyed a major portion of the Destiny Church on O'Hara Avenue in September. The church has been working on fixing the damage. This last week, improvements have brightened up the outside of the building.
The repairs are ongoing. In the meantime those wishing to attend services are welcome to visit the city's council chambers on Sundays at 10:30 a.m.
There have been a lot of street closures, detours and delays as the city works on street improvements over the past few weeks. One of the biggest area of improvements is Empire Avenue near Laurel Road. The new center divides and road expansions will be going on for the next few weeks. When they are done, Empire Road between Laurel and Neroly roads will be four lanes with turnoffs onto the local residential streets.
Unfortunately, that is as far as it goes. Once the road continues over the railroad tracks it is no longer in Oakley's sphere of influence and becomes Antioch and Brentwood. Those two cities will need to work together expand the road further for better access to Slatten Ranch.
O'Hara Avenue has been getting some nice new sidewalks which is a big help for the Freedom High School students who walk the road to and from school. There is still a rather large area that needs sidewalk additions. Let's hope that happens soon. During the rainy season the children tend to move into the street along that area as the sand puddles up.
In all, kudos should go out to those making an effort to make Oakley look nicer.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
For the Contra Costa Times
An unofficial beautification plan must have been in effect in the city of Oakley for the past few weeks, as not only city streets are being improved, but also local churches and residences are starting to show off their shine. Just a quick drive around the small city limits reveals many improvements.
Over the past few years the decline in the economy has been evident by the many foreclosed homes throughout town. With no one living in the homes, front lawns started to go to weeds, despite the city's attempt to pass ordinances that would keep properties well-landscaped even if they were unoccupied.
Now, homes are being purchased and the new residents are taking an active interest in beautifying their landscaping. An added advantage is that the cooling temperatures are allowing spring and early summer flowers to stay in bloom longer. Longtime residents are also adding new landscaping to their properties.
Many of the local churches throughout town are finally able to complete projects that are adding visual appeal as well as space to their properties. The corner of O'Hara Avenue is looking vastly different these days with St. Anthony Church adding its new parking lot. The project is a big change for the church that for years only had a sand lot for parking.
The city will soon be adding a sidewalk in front of the church, which will be an even bigger improvement to the busy street corner.
Members of the New Lifeline World Ministries on Empire Avenue are finally getting to the finishing touches of their new buildings. The group has been working for several years to move from the prefabricated building on their lot into a new structure. They are currently working on parking and landscaping.
A fire destroyed a major portion of the Destiny Church on O'Hara Avenue in September. The church has been working on fixing the damage. This last week, improvements have brightened up the outside of the building.
The repairs are ongoing. In the meantime those wishing to attend services are welcome to visit the city's council chambers on Sundays at 10:30 a.m.
There have been a lot of street closures, detours and delays as the city works on street improvements over the past few weeks. One of the biggest area of improvements is Empire Avenue near Laurel Road. The new center divides and road expansions will be going on for the next few weeks. When they are done, Empire Road between Laurel and Neroly roads will be four lanes with turnoffs onto the local residential streets.
Unfortunately, that is as far as it goes. Once the road continues over the railroad tracks it is no longer in Oakley's sphere of influence and becomes Antioch and Brentwood. Those two cities will need to work together expand the road further for better access to Slatten Ranch.
O'Hara Avenue has been getting some nice new sidewalks which is a big help for the Freedom High School students who walk the road to and from school. There is still a rather large area that needs sidewalk additions. Let's hope that happens soon. During the rainy season the children tend to move into the street along that area as the sand puddles up.
In all, kudos should go out to those making an effort to make Oakley look nicer.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Neighbor: Freedom High's Steve Amaro believes in importance of athletics
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name: Steve Amaro
Occupation: Athletic director, tennis coach and English teacher at Freedom High School.
Marital status/Family: Amaro lives in Brentwood with his wife, Jennifer, whom he met playing tennis and married in 1998. The couple have two children Lindsey, 8, and Ashley, 5.
Educational and employment background: Amaro said that he didn't start out his college career with the idea of becoming a teacher.
"I wasn't the best student in high school," he said.
He first attended Diablo Valley College to study business. That same year he opened a deejay business.
After the first year in college, an English teacher at DVC told Amaro he was wasting his time with business and convinced him to change his major to English. At the same time a coach at DVC asked him to join the tennis team. Amaro had played tennis in high school and enjoyed the sport.
After changing his path to English, Amaro then attended Saint Mary's College and later got his master's degree from San Francisco State where he was the youngest person in his class.
His first job was teaching summer school English the year before he received his teaching credential.
"In that class, 70 percent of the students passed at a proficient level," Amaro said.
In May of 1998, while on his honeymoon, Amaro received a call from Freedom High School asking him if he was interested in a position at the school.
"I liked the community feel and Freedom was a new school. Now I love Oakley and the people here," Amaro said.
Amaro was also offered a position as the assistant coach for the girls tennis team during that time.
Proudest civic achievement: "Watching Freedom become the center of pride in this community," Amaro said. "I know that is a biased view. I think Freedom is a safe and nurturing place."
Being a teacher is a large source of pride for Amaro.
"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," he said.
Future Achievement: Amaro is working on his doctoral degree in educational leadership. His doctorate thesis relates to how extracurricular activities affect how students see the world from different perspectives.
He hopes to still teach English and to get the chance to teach a course that will show principals and teachers the importance of athletics in a student's life.
Groups and organizations involved in: Amaro is involved in many organizations related to education and athletics, including The National Federation of High Schools, National Council of English Teachers, Athletic Coaches Association, North Coast Athletic Coaches Association and United States Professional Tennis Association.
Amaro still works with the deejay company he started in college and every year donates his time to provide music for organizations such as the annual barbecue picnic the Sheriff's Office of Contra Costa County holds.
Hobbies: Amaro plays tennis, runs, plays the video game Rock Band with his daughters, deejays occasionally and spends time with his own children, as well as his students.
What was the last book you read: "I wanted to see why all the kids were so interested in 'Twilight,' so I just finished reading 'Eclipse,' " he said.
The "Twilight" series by Stephanie Myers has sparked a sensation among teens, along with three movies. "Eclipse" is the latest in the series.
Favorite movie: "That is a hard one. It is easy to say 'Star Wars,' " he said. "I can still remember seeing it in the movies when I was young."
He also said he really like Disney's "The Lion King."
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Occupation: Athletic director, tennis coach and English teacher at Freedom High School.
Marital status/Family: Amaro lives in Brentwood with his wife, Jennifer, whom he met playing tennis and married in 1998. The couple have two children Lindsey, 8, and Ashley, 5.
Educational and employment background: Amaro said that he didn't start out his college career with the idea of becoming a teacher.
"I wasn't the best student in high school," he said.
He first attended Diablo Valley College to study business. That same year he opened a deejay business.
After the first year in college, an English teacher at DVC told Amaro he was wasting his time with business and convinced him to change his major to English. At the same time a coach at DVC asked him to join the tennis team. Amaro had played tennis in high school and enjoyed the sport.
After changing his path to English, Amaro then attended Saint Mary's College and later got his master's degree from San Francisco State where he was the youngest person in his class.
His first job was teaching summer school English the year before he received his teaching credential.
"In that class, 70 percent of the students passed at a proficient level," Amaro said.
In May of 1998, while on his honeymoon, Amaro received a call from Freedom High School asking him if he was interested in a position at the school.
"I liked the community feel and Freedom was a new school. Now I love Oakley and the people here," Amaro said.
Amaro was also offered a position as the assistant coach for the girls tennis team during that time.
Proudest civic achievement: "Watching Freedom become the center of pride in this community," Amaro said. "I know that is a biased view. I think Freedom is a safe and nurturing place."
Being a teacher is a large source of pride for Amaro.
"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," he said.
Future Achievement: Amaro is working on his doctoral degree in educational leadership. His doctorate thesis relates to how extracurricular activities affect how students see the world from different perspectives.
He hopes to still teach English and to get the chance to teach a course that will show principals and teachers the importance of athletics in a student's life.
Groups and organizations involved in: Amaro is involved in many organizations related to education and athletics, including The National Federation of High Schools, National Council of English Teachers, Athletic Coaches Association, North Coast Athletic Coaches Association and United States Professional Tennis Association.
Amaro still works with the deejay company he started in college and every year donates his time to provide music for organizations such as the annual barbecue picnic the Sheriff's Office of Contra Costa County holds.
Hobbies: Amaro plays tennis, runs, plays the video game Rock Band with his daughters, deejays occasionally and spends time with his own children, as well as his students.
What was the last book you read: "I wanted to see why all the kids were so interested in 'Twilight,' so I just finished reading 'Eclipse,' " he said.
The "Twilight" series by Stephanie Myers has sparked a sensation among teens, along with three movies. "Eclipse" is the latest in the series.
Favorite movie: "That is a hard one. It is easy to say 'Star Wars,' " he said. "I can still remember seeing it in the movies when I was young."
He also said he really like Disney's "The Lion King."
-- Roni Gehlke
Around Oakley: Library looking for Youth Squad members
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
What better way to develop programs for teens and younger kids then having a group of teenagers help decide what the younger crowd likes to do? That is the idea behind the Oakley Library Youth Squad. Now that classes are back in session at Freedom High School, where the Oakley Library is housed, the library staff is again looking for a group of teens to get involved in the Squad.
"We are looking for enthusiastic and energetic teens to help," said Andrea Freyler, the Oakley library assistant in charge of the program. "There is no limit to the amount of kids who can get involved."
Although the program has been around for seven years, this is the first year Freyler has worked with it. She's hoping that students will come up with some activities that will make going to the library more fun for kids.
The Squad is open to all kids from eighth grade and above. Freyler said the program is run by the students; she is only the adviser. Squad participants will be asked to put together programs that will encourage community involvement.
"There isn't a set amount of programs per month, but I'd like to see something every month or two," Freyler said.
With schoolwork and other after school activities, Freyler knows that young people lead busy lives. She has scheduled the Squad to meet just once a month. The first meeting is set for 3:30-5 p.m. Aug. 19."I'll let the students decide if they want to keep that day or change it and how often after that," she said.
Squad members will also have to set aside time to set up activities for the programs. Freyler said there is no requirement for how much the teen gets involved in the group, but for each activity the group sets she hopes that at least five teens will participate to make the program the best it can be. There is no adult involvement in the activities. The teens will be asked to run the program completely from start to finish.
Programs in the past have included "Hallow Boo Loo," a Halloween party last fall, and read-a-thons involving books teens love. That's what they did last year, Freyler said. The type of programs are completely up to the Squad participants.
Teens must be dependable and responsible. As a member of the Squad they will interact with readers of all ages and contribute to the Oakley community library.
"This is really a community service project," Freyler said.
All interested volunteers must fill out applications, which are available at the Oakley Library. For more information, contact Freyler at Oakley Library at 925-625-2400 or afreyler@ccclib.org.
The Oakley Library is at 1050 Neroly Road. The library is open from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, from 2-9 p.m. Thursday, 2-6 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. The library is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
One other note about the Library: Percy Jackson fans are invited to the Camp Half-Blood Regional Meeting at the Oakley Library, from 2-3 p.m. Aug. 14. The event will include games, prizes, blue food and more. This program is open to fourth- through sixth-grade "demigods" only. Registration required. Please sign up at the Oakley Libraries front desk in advance.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
For the Contra Costa Times
What better way to develop programs for teens and younger kids then having a group of teenagers help decide what the younger crowd likes to do? That is the idea behind the Oakley Library Youth Squad. Now that classes are back in session at Freedom High School, where the Oakley Library is housed, the library staff is again looking for a group of teens to get involved in the Squad.
"We are looking for enthusiastic and energetic teens to help," said Andrea Freyler, the Oakley library assistant in charge of the program. "There is no limit to the amount of kids who can get involved."
Although the program has been around for seven years, this is the first year Freyler has worked with it. She's hoping that students will come up with some activities that will make going to the library more fun for kids.
The Squad is open to all kids from eighth grade and above. Freyler said the program is run by the students; she is only the adviser. Squad participants will be asked to put together programs that will encourage community involvement.
"There isn't a set amount of programs per month, but I'd like to see something every month or two," Freyler said.
With schoolwork and other after school activities, Freyler knows that young people lead busy lives. She has scheduled the Squad to meet just once a month. The first meeting is set for 3:30-5 p.m. Aug. 19."I'll let the students decide if they want to keep that day or change it and how often after that," she said.
Squad members will also have to set aside time to set up activities for the programs. Freyler said there is no requirement for how much the teen gets involved in the group, but for each activity the group sets she hopes that at least five teens will participate to make the program the best it can be. There is no adult involvement in the activities. The teens will be asked to run the program completely from start to finish.
Programs in the past have included "Hallow Boo Loo," a Halloween party last fall, and read-a-thons involving books teens love. That's what they did last year, Freyler said. The type of programs are completely up to the Squad participants.
Teens must be dependable and responsible. As a member of the Squad they will interact with readers of all ages and contribute to the Oakley community library.
"This is really a community service project," Freyler said.
All interested volunteers must fill out applications, which are available at the Oakley Library. For more information, contact Freyler at Oakley Library at 925-625-2400 or afreyler@ccclib.org.
The Oakley Library is at 1050 Neroly Road. The library is open from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, from 2-9 p.m. Thursday, 2-6 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. The library is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
One other note about the Library: Percy Jackson fans are invited to the Camp Half-Blood Regional Meeting at the Oakley Library, from 2-3 p.m. Aug. 14. The event will include games, prizes, blue food and more. This program is open to fourth- through sixth-grade "demigods" only. Registration required. Please sign up at the Oakley Libraries front desk in advance.
Roni Gehlke is an Oakley resident. Reach her at ourbackyard@comcast.net.
Business Spotlight: Oodles of Noodles a unique Brentwood eatery
By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Oodles of Noodles and More
Type of business: Fast, casual restaurant
Owner: Jonathan Lei
Founded: July 2007
Address: 6670 Lone Tree Way, Brentwood
Phone number: 925-418-4970
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Number of employees: six
Products and services: Oodles of Noodles offers a menu of noodles, rice, brown rice, wraps, grilled with one's choice of fresh vegetables, tri-tip, chicken breast, pork or prawns on a circular grill in view of customers.
"A fresh spin on Mongolian barbecue," Lei said. "We are also the only restaurant to offer a zero-calorie, zero-carb noodle."
How did you get into the business: "Even though my wife and I have owned Digger's Diner in Concord for 12 years now, I had a separate career as a real estate developer," Lei said. "While DiAnn was having the time of her life running the diner, I was doing what I loved, designing and building custom homes."
When they had their first son, Lei, took a year off to spend time with his new family. The couple had a daughter 18 months later. One year off quickly turned into four years away from his career.
"When I was ready to get back to work again, the economy was so bad that I did not feel there would be a market for custom homes. So DiAnn and I took a chance and opened our second Digger's Diner location in Brentwood," he said.
Lei said they were so well-received because they were the first retro family diner in town and it was just what area needed. Then two years later, they decided to bring another unique restaurant to Brentwood by opening Oodles of Noodles.
Best part about the business?: "I enjoy meeting new people and watching them leave happy and satisfied," he said. "I also like the fact that I get to design and build the restaurants myself. It is very rewarding for me to see all the hard work in planning, building finally come to fruition and be a hit with the customers. It's the developer in me happy to get a creative outlet I guess."
Worst part about the business?: Not being able to spend time as much time as he liked with his family while the establishing the new restaurant.
"I got really used to spending a lot of time with my kids," Lei said. "I joke about being proud to be the only dad I know to potty-train his kids. So aside from everything else, this is the worst part for me. Luckily, I have the best kids in the whole world and they are very understanding that this is short-term."
Key to success: "To have an original idea and the best people to execute the concept to the highest possible standard," he said. "They are others, of course, but these two criteria will transcend even a bad location. Customers are seeking us out because they heard we have amazing food and a very friendly staff."
Biggest misperception about the business: Lei said the biggest misperception is that starting and eventually running a restaurant is hard.
"It really isn't. All you have to do is have a good concept, the best staff, a good sales force, a marketing team, controller, a legal team, financial adviser and a maintenance crew, and you are set."
Lei said if you have to do it all yourself like he did, then it is a little harder. "All kidding aside, running a restaurant is just like any other small business, you do whatever it takes to keep it going," he said.
Future plans: "To take four years off," he joked. "Seriously, I want to change the world, one bowl at a time."
-- Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times
Name of business: Oodles of Noodles and More
Type of business: Fast, casual restaurant
Owner: Jonathan Lei
Founded: July 2007
Address: 6670 Lone Tree Way, Brentwood
Phone number: 925-418-4970
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Number of employees: six
Products and services: Oodles of Noodles offers a menu of noodles, rice, brown rice, wraps, grilled with one's choice of fresh vegetables, tri-tip, chicken breast, pork or prawns on a circular grill in view of customers.
"A fresh spin on Mongolian barbecue," Lei said. "We are also the only restaurant to offer a zero-calorie, zero-carb noodle."
How did you get into the business: "Even though my wife and I have owned Digger's Diner in Concord for 12 years now, I had a separate career as a real estate developer," Lei said. "While DiAnn was having the time of her life running the diner, I was doing what I loved, designing and building custom homes."
When they had their first son, Lei, took a year off to spend time with his new family. The couple had a daughter 18 months later. One year off quickly turned into four years away from his career.
"When I was ready to get back to work again, the economy was so bad that I did not feel there would be a market for custom homes. So DiAnn and I took a chance and opened our second Digger's Diner location in Brentwood," he said.
Lei said they were so well-received because they were the first retro family diner in town and it was just what area needed. Then two years later, they decided to bring another unique restaurant to Brentwood by opening Oodles of Noodles.
Best part about the business?: "I enjoy meeting new people and watching them leave happy and satisfied," he said. "I also like the fact that I get to design and build the restaurants myself. It is very rewarding for me to see all the hard work in planning, building finally come to fruition and be a hit with the customers. It's the developer in me happy to get a creative outlet I guess."
Worst part about the business?: Not being able to spend time as much time as he liked with his family while the establishing the new restaurant.
"I got really used to spending a lot of time with my kids," Lei said. "I joke about being proud to be the only dad I know to potty-train his kids. So aside from everything else, this is the worst part for me. Luckily, I have the best kids in the whole world and they are very understanding that this is short-term."
Key to success: "To have an original idea and the best people to execute the concept to the highest possible standard," he said. "They are others, of course, but these two criteria will transcend even a bad location. Customers are seeking us out because they heard we have amazing food and a very friendly staff."
Biggest misperception about the business: Lei said the biggest misperception is that starting and eventually running a restaurant is hard.
"It really isn't. All you have to do is have a good concept, the best staff, a good sales force, a marketing team, controller, a legal team, financial adviser and a maintenance crew, and you are set."
Lei said if you have to do it all yourself like he did, then it is a little harder. "All kidding aside, running a restaurant is just like any other small business, you do whatever it takes to keep it going," he said.
Future plans: "To take four years off," he joked. "Seriously, I want to change the world, one bowl at a time."
-- Roni Gehlke
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