Following are the winners of the three races run at Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch, as part of the annual Holiday Run & Walk for Health, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of the Delta and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, on Saturday, December 12, 2015:

1-Mile Run/Walk Winners

Overall and Top Male – Eben Zaragoza, age 10, of Antioch, with a time of 7:29

Top Female – Riley MacPherson, age 10, of Brentwood, with a time of 7:36

3-Mile Run/Walk Winners

Overall and Top Male – Marcus Dawal, Jr., age 15 of Brentwood, with a time of 18:29

Top Female – Madison MacPherson, age 15, of Brentwood and a sophomore at Liberty  High School, with a time of 20:01

Assistant Coach for the Antioch High School Cross Country team, William Berger, age 29, placed first in his age division and second overall, with a time of 18:30, providing a good example for his team.

10K Run/Walk Winners

Overall and Top Male – Brian Mohrlant, age 35 of Napa, with a time of 42:18

Top Female – Roxanna Aranda, age 53 of Antioch, with a time of 53:04

See all race results by clicking here. For more information about the Holiday Run, visit www.holidayrun.org and for more information about the Kiwanis Club of the Delta, visit www.delta-antioch.kiwanisone.org.

 

 

 

COLOR RUN / Walk for Breast Cancer fundraiser

Friday, October 16, 2015 3:30 -4:30 p.m.

Dozier-Libbey Medical High School Parking Lot

• $10.00 entry fee students $20.00 entry fee adults

• Students must complete and return permission slip

• Make and wear your own tutu (optional)

• Put a memento of a loved one on our table of remembrance (are you walking for someone?)

• Decorate your own t-shirt (date TBA)

• Get splashed with color every few laps. The more color the better.

• All profits will be donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation

• Awareness alone isn’t a cure, women need to get regular mammograms

To participate, download the entry form, by clicking here: COLOR RUN Entry form

 

After practicing dentistry for more than 28 years in Antioch, Dr. David Campos retired in May, 2014 and sold his practice to Dr. Mona Sidhu, because they both share the same values and philosophy of providing quality dentistry and ultimate patient comfort.

The practice, now known as Smile Line Dentistry, has gone through some upgrades since the transition to provide patients with the latest in technology. The he addition of digital x-rays and intra oral cameras not only provide a better, clear diagnostic tool, but also minimizes radiation exposure to the patient. It also allows patients to be a part of the dental exam and see exactly what the dentist sees. Soft tissue laser is also available for minor gum surgeries or correction on tongue tie. The practice focuses on patient education and overall health, with the mouth being the doorway to the body.

To enhance patient comfort, the office also offers nitrous oxide, and TV’s in the treatment room.

“We are dedicated to a comprehensive approach to dentistry, considering both the functional and esthetic aspects of your smile,” Dr. Sidhu said. “We know you will immediately notice the difference in the way you are treated.”

Smile Line is equipped to see patients of all ages, as young as two-years-old, and most procedures can be done at their office, instead of being referred out. Their wide range of excellent, dental care services include cleanings, fillings, extractions, oral cancer detection, bleaching, bonding, crowns, bridges, dentures and veneers. Plus, they are a preferred provider for Invisalign (clear braces).

So, it’s like a one-stop shop for your family’s dentistry needs and that pleases their patients.

“I’m so happy I found this dentist. I love the whole staff. They made me feel so welcome and comfortable, making it easier to want to come back” said Erin C.

“I’m so happy with Dr. Sidhu. The follow through is what impressed me the most,” Cyrina Q. said.

Dr. Sidhu is an accomplished dentist with more than 10 years’ experience. She passed her California dental license exam from the University of Southern California and has been through several post graduate courses in various fields of dentistry since receiving her BDS, DDS degree.

As much as Dr. Sidhu is concerned with oral health, she is equally committed to her patients’ emotional well-being and overall health. She understands that dental examinations and treatments can be intimidating for some, and is dedicated to providing a relaxed experience that eases fears and apprehensions about visiting the dentist.

Dr. Sidhu’s approach to treatment begins with patiently listening to you. Then, after a complete and thorough examination, she reviews and discusses the diagnosis and treatment options with you. Her commitment to her patients’ well-being extends to their emotional state as well.

“I am proud to provide my patients with the best in dental technology, treatment options and patient comfort,” she said.. “It is my pleasure to address their questions and concerns.”

During her down time, Dr. Sidhu likes to cook, dance, read books and travel.

She is a member of the Alameda County Dental Society, California Dental Association, American Dental Association and Academy of General Dentistry.

To set an appointment, call 754-1650 and for more information visit their website at www.smilelinedentistry.com. Smile Line Dentistry is located at 3220 Lone Tree Way, Suite 102 in Antioch.

Poisoning, accidental death and impacts on water quality are some of the negative consequences facing local communities due to the improper storage and disposal of medicines. As the lead agency for the Delta Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility, Delta Diablo Sanitation District has joined with other local environmental stewards, law enforcement agencies and public health advocates exploring opportunities to increase medicine disposal opportunities in East Contra Costa County.

Please help our efforts by completing a brief, five minute survey with questions about the guidance, if any, you have received from prescribers, current disposal practices, and what disposal locations would be most convenient for your family. Responses will be kept confidential and pooled with other East Contra Costa residents.

Click here for the survey. Thank you.

Free Awareness Seminar, Thursday, April 16 and Run for the Health of It – 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, April 25

John Muir Health and the American Cancer Society invite everyone to join them at two events in April to raise awareness and learn more about the causes of and treatment options for esophageal cancer. 

According to the National Cancer Institute over 18,000 people are diagnosed with esophageal cancer annually, and the incidence numbers are increasing. The most common type of esophageal cancer can be linked to issues such as chronic heartburn.

“While the incidence of esophageal cancer is increasing, treatments have improved and survival rates are getting better,” said Wilson Tsai, M.D., co-director, Thoracic Program at John Muir Health. “Through events like our free seminar and run/walk, we hope to better inform the public about the risks of this steadily growing disease as well as risk reduction and early detection strategies.”

Free Esophageal Cancer Awareness Seminar

The seminar will take place on Thursday, April 16 from 6-8 p.m. at John Muir Medical Center, Concord and will feature:      

• Honorable Ellen Tauscher, esophageal cancer survivor (four years disease free)

• Wilson Tsai, MD, Thoracic Surgeon at John Muir Health

• S. Saeed Zamani, MD, Gastroenterologist at John Muir Health

• Susie Howard, Registered Dietitian at John Muir Health

The Honorable Ellen Tauscher will share her personal experience with GERD symptoms and her journey after she was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. John Muir Health specialists will also discuss the warning signs and the latest medical treatments for GERD and esophageal cancer. More information is available at www.johnmuirhealth.com/content/jmh/en/home/event-list/esophageal-cancer-awareness-seminar.html.

First Inaugural Run for the Health of It Esophageal Cancer Awareness 5K Run/Walk

The first inaugural Run for the Health of It Esophageal Cancer Awareness 5K Run/Walk, will take place on Saturday morning, April 25, at Heather Farm Park, in Walnut Creek.

This event features a scenic course using paved paths through the natural early spring beauty of Heather Farm Park. Chip timing and results will be provided by race-production company www.onyourmarkevents.com.

Along with being a great competitive race and walk, this will be a fun gathering for a great cause, promoting health and raising awareness about this curable disease. All attendees will learn how to decrease risk through diet, exercise, and more. Proceeds will benefit John Muir Health’s Esophageal Cancer Program.

Runners and walkers will receive a commemorative T-shirt, post-race refreshments, and much more. Pre-registered entry fees are $35 for adults, $15 children (12-17), and $10 children (11 and under). Race-day registration fees will increase $5.

Participants can pre-register two ways: download this application and mail in with a check, or register via online at Active.com. For more event information, contact On Your Mark Events at (209) 795-7832, or visit their Website.

Race-day registration and check-in will take place at the Heather Farm Park’s athletic fields, beginning at 7:00 a.m., with an 8:30 a.m. start.

About John Muir Health

John Muir Health is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit health care organization east of San Francisco serving patients in Contra Costa, eastern Alameda and southern Solano Counties. It includes a network of more than 1,000 primary care and specialty physicians, more than 5,500 employees, medical centers in Concord and Walnut Creek, including Contra Costa County’s only trauma center, and a Behavioral Health Center. John Muir Health also has partnerships with San Ramon Regional Medical Center, UCSF Medical Center and Stanford Children’s Health. John Muir Health and Stanford Children’s Health will jointly open Contra Costa County’s first and onlyPediatric Intensive Care Unit at John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creekin April2015.The health system offers a full-range of medical services, including primary care, outpatient and imaging services, and is widely recognized as a leader in many specialties – neurosciences, orthopedic, cancer, cardiovascular, trauma, emergency, pediatrics and high-risk obstetrics care. For more information, visit www.johnmuirhealth.com.

Attends game during NBA’s Hoops for St. Jude Week

By F.D.Purcell

Many fans show up to Golden State Warriors‘ games early, in hopes of shaking hands or getting a photo op with their favorite player and this past Thursday was no different. Except this time the roles were reversed; Warriors players shook hands and took photos with someone sitting courtside near their bench.

That person would be six year-old Santa Rosa resident Kapri Geernaert. Chosen to attend Thursday’s game, as a part of the NBA’s Hoops for St. Jude Week, April 3rdthrough 9th, Geernaert met with Warriors players and St. Jude Children‘s Hospital Ambassador David Lee, who visited St. Jude last month in Memphis and donated $75,000 to help support their lifesaving work.

Geernaert is one of 250 to 500 children in the U.S. daignosed yearly with a cancerous tumor called Medulloblastoma, which accounts for 20% of all childhood brain tumors in our country.

Last June, after months of battling flu-like symptoms Kapri’s illness would come to a head. While riding in the car with her mother, Becki she suffered a seizure and the Geernaerts would receive the news that no parent should ever have to hear, their five year-old daughter had a brain tumor.

“The past year has been crazy, a lot of anxiety,” said her father Shawn. Doctors would eventually find multiple tumors peppered throughout her spine and brain areas, one the size of a walnut on her brain that was removed. The others were smaller and did not require removal.

Sitting with her big sisters, 11 year-old Kenadie and nine year-old Kailey and 11 year-old cousin Aiden, the Geernaert girls describe their little sister as “funny” and “cute,” who “likes to do crazy things.” They kept Kapri’s spirit happy by giving her candy, when they visited.

While their mom stayed with Kapri in Memphis her sisters helped their dad out, by helping with laundry and dishes, at their home in Santa Rosa.

“We love St. Jude, it’s a home away from home,” said Becki who was not in attendance Thursday but face-timed with Shawn, becoming emotional when she saw Kapri’s interaction with the players.

Donning a Warriors cap and personalized jersey with her name on the back the soft-spoken first grader told Sports in the Bay she enjoys doing crafts and her favorite player was “#30,” because she “likes the way he shoots.” For those of you living under a rock this season that would be two-time all-star and MVP candidate Stephen Curry.

The Geernaerts credit their faith and church, Spring Hills Church in Santa Rosa, for providing a wealth of support over the past nine months, along with a host of family and friends who held fund raising events and offered words of prayer and encouragement.

After seven rounds of chemotherapy, five weeks of radiation and a nine-month residence in Memphis, Kapri returned home a few weeks ago and is adjusting well. She enjoys visiting her classmates daily and is excited about returning to school in the fall.

“I would encourage people to give $5 or $10, anything to St. Jude because it‘s going to a great cause,” said Becki whose husband was a long-time contributor to St. Jude before Kapri’s diagnosis.

Learn more about Kapri on her Facebook page: Kapri Geernaert.

Follow F.D. Purcell on Twitter: @sportsinthebay_ or on Facebook at: Sports in the Bay

Public invited to Join 215-mile tour of California watershed, with Organic Valley farmers and employees, April 19-25

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (April 8, 2015) – Organic Valley, the nation’s largest cooperative of organic farmers, will participate in the United Nations’ International Year of Soils by “Cycling for Sustainability” through California watersheds. From April 19-25, Organic Valley farmer-owners and employees will travel 215 miles from Auburn, California, to the Sonoma coast, learning from experts along the way about the impact of agriculture on water and soil in California.

Hailing from as far as Maine, Wisconsin, Oregon, and Washington state, the cyclists have diverse backgrounds and interests in the event. The public is invited to join them for any or all segments of the journey.

The events along the route are open to the public and include a meeting with the American River Parkway Foundation to learn about the coexistence of agriculture and environmental conservation along the parkway; a tour of Antioch Dunes Wildlife Refuge to understand a grazing initiative using cows to control invasive species; and an evening of food, drink and conversation at a Grass Up! event at the David Brower Center featuring guest speakers from Pesticide Action Network and Seed Matters. RSVP at ov.coop/GrassUpSOS.

The journey concludes with a visit to beautiful Ocean Breeze Dairy in Valley Ford, one of Organic Valley’s member-farms. Mark Kopecky, soil agronomist at Organic Valley, will join Ocean Breeze’s owner, Jarrid Bordessa, to share how Organic Valley farms are creating healthy soil and water systems.

“Soil is the foundation for all of agriculture,” says Kopecky, “and healthy soil is the first goal of organic agriculture. When we work with the amazing community of living beings in the soil, we can grow good crops of healthy food and feed while, at the same time, benefiting our water, air and landscape.”

View the complete Cycling for Sustainability Tour itinerary at rootstock.coop/environmental-sustainability/cycling-for-sustainability-tour-itinerary. Follow the cyclists as they blog at rootstock.coop/tag/cycling-for-sustainability.

Jake Wedeberg, a participating young farmer from Wisconsin who is a key member of Organic Valley’s On-Farm Sustainability Committee and Generation Organic Executive Committee, is specifically interested in learning from the California experts about how the cooperative can innovate and implement best practices for soil and water on member-farms across the nation.

“While we typically have ample amounts of rain in Wisconsin, past droughts have had lasting financial implications and effects on our farming practices. As young organic farmers across the country look to the future and climate change, issues involving natural resources like soil and water will be central to our challenges. Our entire generation needs to learn what we can do now to prepare for the future.”

Speaking from the point of view of an older farmer is George Siemon, Organic Valley’s CEIEIO and one of the co-op’s founding farmers, is pleased with the efforts of these farmers. “The daily, earth-healing work of Organic Valley is at the core of our mission. The continuous improvement of our business’s sustainability practices is our backbone.”

The public is invited to join the cyclists at any time during the Cycling for Sustainability Tour. View the itinerary here. They will be armed with video cameras to document their journey. Videos and images of the tour will post to Organic Valley’s Facebook and Twitter pages, and daily progress will be shared on Rootstock.coop, along with information about the cyclists and experts.

Organic Valley: Independent and Farmer-Owned

Organic Valley is America’s largest cooperative of organic farmers and one of the nation’s leading organic brands. Organized in 1988, it represents approximately1,800 farmers in 36 states. Focused on its founding mission of saving family farms through organic farming, Organic Valley produces a variety of organic foods, including organic milk, soy, cheese, butter, spreads, creams, eggs, and produce, which are sold in supermarkets, natural foods stores and food cooperatives nationwide. With its regional model, milk is produced, bottled and distributed right in the region where it is farmed to ensure fewer miles from farm to table and to support our local economies. For further information visit www.organicvalley.coop. Organic Valley is also on Twitter @OrganicValley and Facebook, www.facebook.com/OrganicValley.