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Events Upcoming There are no upcoming events. Baseball Game TBD Oakland Coliseum Join us for a baseball game! Details to come... See Details Event Title Date Location Description See Details Event Title Date Location Description See Details Event Title Date Location Description See Details Event Title Date Location Description See Details

FSA 2022 Summer Picnic When August 21, 2022, 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Location is TBD See map & address ​ Get directions What The FSAA 2022 Picnic and BBQ is tentatively scheduled. Due to uncertainty with future COVID restrictions, this event may need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

FSA goes to an A's Game! When September 7, 2024, 12:00 – 5:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Oakland See map & address 7000 S Coliseum Wy, Oakland, CA 94621, USA Get directions What Come watch the Oakland Athletics take on the Detroit Tigers on 9/7 at the colosseum! Food and beverages will be provided. A great way to enjoy and baseball game in a sober environment!

FSA 2021 Holiday Party When December 18, 2021, 6:00 – 9:00 PM PST Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Location is TBD See map & address ​ Get directions What The FSA 2021 Holiday Party is tentatively scheduled. Due to uncertainty with future COVID restrictions, this event may need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

Members Coming soon Check back soon. The members area will feature articles and alumni stories as well as an invite only section for fellow alumni to keep in touch. Members will be able to post pictures and ask and answer question about recovery. It will be open to all FSA members but will require an invite code to be admitted to protect alumni anonymity from non-members visiting the site. Members can register now to receive FSA news, updates, and meeting and event reminders through email and text message. Visit the registration page to sign up.

2020 FSAA Crab Feed When March 21, 2020, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where First Lutheran Church See map & address 4000 Concord Blvd, Concord, CA 94519, USA Get directions What Come join us for the annual FSAA Crab Feed! The event is open to family and friends of alumni and will feature all the crab and pasta you can eat, guest speaker, and both a 50/50 and prize raffle.

Halloween Party When October 26, 2019, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where John Muir Center for Recovery See map & address 4080 Port Chicago Hwy, Concord, CA 94520, USA Get directions What The Annual FSAA Halloween Party features dinner, bingo, a costume contest for both children and adults!

Holiday & New Year's Party When December 29, 2018, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where First Lutheran Church See map & address 4000 Concord Blvd, Concord, CA 94519 Get directions What Bring your friends and family and join us for a delicious catered meal, a special guest speaker, and a ton of great and unique raffle prizes!

FSA BBQ and Picnic When August 25, 2024, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Pleasant Hill See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What Our Annual BBQ and Picnic. Raffles, food, and socializing! Come support the Fresh Start Alumni!

Thanksgiving Dinner When November 23, 2019, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where John Muir Behavioral Health See map & address 4080 Port Chicago Hwy, Concord, CA 94520, USA Get directions What Please join us for our annual Thanksgiving Dinner. The event will take place at John Muir Behavioral Health facility on Port Chicago Highway and is open to all alumni, family, and friends.

Register Register as an FSA member and get email and text message updates on news and upcoming events and meetings. First Name Last Name or Initial Email Address Send me news and upcoming event and meeting reminders via email. Mobile Phone Number Send me upcoming event and meeting reminders via text message. (Mobile only) Volunteer Sign me up to be a service volunteer for the FSA. Add me to the phone list for distribution to members and newcomers. Submit

Keep coming back. More will be revealed. Welcome Monthly Alumni Meeting - HYBRID! The FSA holds an alumni meeting on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. COME JOIN US IN PERSON! Each one features a guest speaker and a celebration of recovery milestones. More info on this and other FSA meetings can be found on the meetings page . The next HYBRID alumni meeting is: Tuesday, May 21st at 7:30 PM ​ J ohn Muir Concord Medical Center Concord Room 1 &2 2540 East St. Concord, CA 94520 Click Here to Join Zoom ​ Password: recovery ​ Fresh Start Alum ni goes to the movies Date: May 22nd Time: 7:00 PM Cinemark Century Pleasant Hill ​ Come enjoy a movie with the Fresh Start Alumni! Meet us at the Cinemark in Pleasant Hill next to Jacks Restaurant. ​ Email recovery@freshstartalumni.org if you plan on coming! Donate to the FSA Donations are used to pay the expenses of the association and provide financial scholarships to support patients who are currently enrolled in John Muir Behavioral Health Center’s recovery program. Donate Register as an FSA Member Registered members can receive regular FSA news and updates as well as upcoming event and meeting reminders through email and text messages. Register

2019 FSAA Picnic & BBQ When August 25, 2019, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Rodgers-Smith Park See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What Summer picnic and BBQ featuring potluck, games, music, a staff & alumni softball game, and a raffle for both adults and kids.

Events Upcoming Events FSA BBQ and Picnic Sun, Aug 25 Pleasant Hill Aug 25, 2024, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Pleasant Hill, 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Aug 25, 2024, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Pleasant Hill, 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Our Annual BBQ and Picnic. Raffles, food, and socializing! Come support the Fresh Start Alumni! RSVP FSA goes to an A's Game! Sat, Sep 07 Oakland Sep 07, 2024, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Oakland, 7000 S Coliseum Wy, Oakland, CA 94621, USA Sep 07, 2024, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Oakland, 7000 S Coliseum Wy, Oakland, CA 94621, USA Come watch the Oakland Athletics take on the Detroit Tigers on 9/7 at the colosseum! Food and beverages will be provided. A great way to enjoy and baseball game in a sober environment! RSVP

Donations Fresh Start Alumni is self-supporting through our own contributions. Donations are used to pay the expenses of the association and provide financial scholarships to support patients who are currently enrolled in John Muir Behavioral Health Center’s recovery program. If you require a receipt, please email us at recovery@freshstartalumni.org . Thank you, as we are very grateful for every dollar we receive to help support recovery for all . Donate On the Web If you wish to donate on the web, it's quick and easy with our Donate Page . You may pay by credit card or skip entering your info and speed through with Apple Pay or Google Pay . Donate On Mobile You can also make mobile donations with your iPhone or Android smartphone with the Venmo app. Just scan this code from the screen when you choose a recipient in the app. Donate By Mail We accept donations by mail. Make your check payable to Fresh Start Alumni Association and send it to: Fresh Start Alumni Association P.O. Box 96 Lafayette, CA 94549-0096 Please send us a quick email at recovery@freshstartalumni.org so we are aware of your donation.

FSA 2021 Halloween Party When October 30, 2021, 6:30 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Location is TBD See map & address ​ Get directions What The FSA 2021 Halloween Party is tentatively scheduled. Due to uncertainty with future COVID restrictions this event may need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Resources Local Recovery Meetings Contra Costa County AA Meeting Database Contra Costa County NA Meeting Database Pleasant Hill AA Danville Fellowship NA Worldwide Virtual Meetings Database Online Readings Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous Basic Text of Narcotics Anonymous Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous Daily Reflection Thought for the Day Al-Anon Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

I've Come Out On the Other Side Stronger ​

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Baseball Game When September 11, 2022 at 12:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where RingCentral Coliseum See map & address 501 85th Ave, Oakland, CA 94621, USA Get directions What Join us for an A's game! We have reserved a hospitality space to watch the Oakland Athletics host the Chicago WhiteSox. Tickets and all you can eat for $50. Please contact recovery@freshstartalumni.org to reserve tickets today!

FSA 2021 Thanksgiving Dinner When November 20, 2021, 6:30 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Location is TBD See map & address ​ Get directions What The FSA 2021 Thanksgiving Dinner is tentatively scheduled. Due to uncertainty with future COVID restrictions, this event may need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

Family Recovery ​

FSA Picnic & BBQ When August 21, 2022 at 11:00 AM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Roger Smith Park See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What Our Annual Picnic & BBQ! BBQ, Games, Raffle, and socializing!

Holiday & New Year's Party 2019 When December 28, 2019, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where First Lutheran Church See map & address 4000 Concord Blvd, Concord, CA 94519 Get directions What Bring your friends and family and join us for a delicious salmon and prime rib meal, special guest speaker Gene M., and a ton of great and unique raffle prizes!

About Us The Association Fresh Start Alumni (“FSA”) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit association dedicated to the advancement, promotion, and strengthening of the recovery process for its members and their families and co-dependents . We provide a forum for members to share their experience, strength, and hope with one another, to solve their common problems through the use of FSA-sponsored meetings, workshops, and social and educational activities. FSA believes alcoholism and drug addiction is a family illness, and that changed attitudes can aid recovery . FSA models a fellowship that is ethical, supportive, and demonstrates healthy boundaries to its members and those new to the recovery process. FSA is not allied with any sect, denomination, or political entity; does not engage in any controversy, neither endorses opposes any cause . No part of the FSA’s property or earnings shall in any manner benefit any member or individual, and any funds over and above regular operating expenses shall be used solely for the projects of the association and scholarship assistance. FSA supports Recovery For All. Fresh Start Alumni has over 2000 alumni with over 300 active members. Our members sponsor and participate in the following activities and events: We work with addiction recovery facilities to support current patients in recovery through speaking engagements, sponsorship and participation in a mentor-mentee program. We provide housing funding assistance for other members who may not be able to pay their mortgage or rent due to their recovery. We provide scholarship funds to assist the recovering addict who is unable to pay for their recovery program following graduation from the 28-day program. We sponsor events for our members to encourage participation, recovery and support. This includes a Crab Feed, Summer Picnic & BBQ, Halloween Bingo Bash, Thanksgiving Dinner, and Holiday Party. Board of Directors The FSA Board of Directors consists of four volunteer members elected by the members on an annual basis and serve a term of one calendar year. Here is a list and the contact information for the current board for 2021: President Jim K. jim@freshstartalumni.org Vice-President Gary W. Technology Kyle W. Secretary Max K. max@freshstartalumni.org Treasurer Ron O. Events Chair Crystal Non-Elected Coordinators The FSA relies upon volunteers appointed by the Board of Directors to fulfill several positions of leadership. The positions may vary depending upon the present needs of the association which may include ad hoc committees. Here is a list of the current coordinators and positions which are in need of volunteers: Events Crystal Crystal@freshstartalumni.org Website Open recovery@freshstartalumni.org Donations Position Open recovery@freshstartalumni.org Zoom Tech Host Position Open recovery@freshstartalumni.org

Halloween Bingo Bash When October 20, 2018, 6:30 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where 4080 Port Chicago Hwy See map & address 4080 Port Chicago Hwy, Concord, CA 94520, USA Get directions What The Annual FSAA Halloween Bingo Bash features dinner, bingo, a costume contest and pumpkin carving/decoration contest!

The Triangle of Health ​

FSA 2021 Summer Picnic & BBQ When August 29, 2021, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Rodgers-Smith Park — Pleasant Hill See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What The FSA 2021 Summer Picnic & BBQ is tentatively scheduled. Due to uncertainty with future COVID restrictions this event may need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

Meetings Click for Calendar Monthly Alumni Birthday and Speaker Meeting Fresh Start Alumni holds their member meetings every 3rd Tuesday of the month 7:30 PM . This meeting is now Hybrid. We are in person at the John Muir Concord Medical Center in Concord Room 1 &2. This is a one hour meeting where we feature a guest speaker and celebrate milestone birthdays with fellowship and sobriety chips. J ohn Muir Concord Medical Center Concord Room 1 &2 2540 East St. Concord, CA 94520 Click Here to Join Zoom ​ Password: recovery We can relate to the hard work it takes in early recovery and understand every month maintaining sobriety in the first 365 days is a huge achievement! We recognize our members starting with the first 24 hours, and every month in the first year of being clean and sober. The Zoom meeting invitation is automatically shared once you sign up to become a FSA member. In order to receive a sobriety chip in the mail, please send an email to chips@freshstartalumni.org with your name, address and the sobriety milestone you celebrated. Fresh Start Alumni Monthly Board Meeting The Board of Directors meet every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 6:00 PM to collaborate ideas in strengthening and growing the association. The meetings are open to all members. We encourage your participation in these meetings as we value your feedback. Click Here to Join Zoom ​ Password: recovery ​ Please direct any ideas or questions to Jim@freshstartalumni.org Due to COVID restrictions, our meetings are currently held via Zoom . The Zoom meeting invitation and agenda are automatically shared once you sign up to be an FSA member. FSA Sponsored Group Meetings Fresh Start Alumni sponsors several group meetings for recovery-related topics that are unique from other recovery programs and organizations. We help facilitate meeting locale and extend insurance to the groups. Each group function autonomously, is responsible for its format and rules, and needs only to comply with a code-of-conduct agreement. FSA FamilyCare FamilyCare is a peer led process group open to family members of alumni as well as alumni for support made up of people who have experience, strength, and hope to share; to answer questions about recovery, and learn about their own journey of recovery. Meetings are held every Saturday at 9:00 AM . Regular attendance is encouraged but not required. ​ Zoom Meeting #: 847 8298 3290 ​ Password: 340951 ​ ​ ​ Due to COVID restrictions, FamilyCare is currently being held virtually through Zoom . Please email familycare@freshstartalumni.org to request the meeting ID and password. Join Here FSA ParentCare ParentCare is a process group open to alumni who have children who are addicts or alcoholics. Children may be of any age and do not need to be currently in recovery. The group is peer-led and not facilitated by a trained counselor. Meetings are held every Tuesday at 6:00 PM . Regular attendance is encouraged but not required. Parents are also welcome to attend the Saturday FamilyCare group. Due to COVID restrictions, FamilyCare is currently being held virtually through Zoom . Please email parentcare@freshstartalumni.org to request the meeting ID and password.

FSA Picinic & BBQ When June 14, 2022 at 7:36 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Roger Smith Park See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What Our Annual Summer BBQ! August 21, 2022 11AM at Roger Smith Park

2019 FSAA Crab Feed When March 23, 2019, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where First Lutheran Church See map & address 4000 Concord Blvd, Concord, CA 94519, USA Get directions What Come join us for the annual FSAA Crab Feed! The event is open to family and friends of alumni and will feature all the crab and pasta you can eat, guest speaker, and both a 50/50 and prize raffle.

Fresh Start Alumni and California Pizza Kitchen GroupRaise Fundraiser When March 20, 2024, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Walnut Creek See map & address 1325 S Main St, Walnut Creek, CA 94596, USA Get directions What Eat To Support Fresh Start Alumni! On March 20th from 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, California Pizza Kitchen at 1325 South Main Street is donating back 20% of sales from Dine-In, Takeout & Pick up orders to Fresh Start Alumni!

Events Upcoming There are no upcoming events. Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description Event Title Date Location Description

My Items I'm a title. ​Click here to edit me. The Triangle of Health When I recovered consciousness I wasn’t able to move. I was upside down and the steering wheel of the Triumph TR 6 had my arm pinned to the broken glass of the windshield. “Two Trains Running” by the Blues Project dolefully slowed to a halt as the tape jammed in the cassette player. I had just driven off a 40-foot cliff and landed next to the Colorado River. My best friend, the owner of the car, had escaped major injuries and was able to get out the crumpled passenger door. He was trying desperately to lift the car off me as the gas leaked all around, but to no avail. He asked if I was ok and said he was going to climb the cliff to get help. I waited for the fire to start. It didn’t and help was there 45 minutes later. Late the night before we had decided to meet the “ladies” at the Blue Water Resort near Parker Arizona to water ski. We drank beer, popped “bennies” (Benzedrine) and smoked pot through the night as we drove through the dessert. At dawn Rick asked me to drive the last couple of miles along Parker Dam Road – bad idea. We were both lucky to be alive. Now I realize I had an angel looking after me. I slowed down my drug and alcohol consumption after that for a while, but I didn’t quit – I was 19 I was born in Brooklyn but the family moved to California when I was three. We lived in Redondo Beach until I was 14. I went to Catholic school with my four younger siblings. We lived near the beach and that was where I developed a love affair with the ocean. It also helped relieve the fears of being bullied. I used to get abused at the bus stop before school every morning. I often walked to school to avoid confrontations. I learned to body surf and eventually saved enough money for a surfboard – it became my passion and my escape. When we moved to Orange County I felt like my life was over and I had lost my best friend. My dad was a very successful comptroller in the Aerospace industry. Sadly he was never there for me emotionally. We never did things together and he missed most of the important things in my early life – first communion, plays, graduations etc. I felt that I was on my own when it came to learning about life from a man’s perspective. In high school I was one of the smallest students – 120 pounds – and awful at team sports. I always felt less than and got targeted by bullies I had picked up smoking and started drinking beer as a weekly habit during high school. I liked the way it made me feel – my drinking buddies not so much – I always over did it and either threw up or caused a crazed scene attracting too much attention but it made me feel like I belonged and it helped with my fears. I hung out with the alienated surfer crowd and became a 10%er at school – one of the group of individuals that the principal targeted as degenerates. In my senior year I discovered marijuana and psychedelics. The consequences of my drug and alcohol use mounted. After graduation I got arrested in Catalina for trespassing and possession of arsonous paraphernalia (I had learned to blow flames with lighter fluid) I was high on acid and alcohol and I got kicked off the island and asked to never return. Ten of my friends were arrested at the same time because of my behavior. That same summer I had tried to kill myself while drunk by intentionally crashing my car. This came after receiving a “Dear John” letter from my first major crush. Fortunately, I was only knocked unconscious from the crash and did minor damage to my car. Soon after that I quit drinking because of a bleeding ulcer. I switched to pot and other drugs. The next year I went away to college at UC Santa Barbara. Studying took a back seat to surfing and partying and of course, my grades sucked. My dad withdrew his support so I sold marijuana to afford saying there. LSD became a regular escape from reality. I moved to the Bay Area the summer after I quit UCSB. In the Bay Area during the Sixties I did the hippie thing. I joined a band, grew my hair, went back to school and worked in a restaurant. I had many relationships after high school but they were very self-centered and emotionally abusive. I know that I had felt ignored and abused by the opposite sex in high school so maybe I was trying to get even. I didn’t have much to give anyway. Cocaine became part of the scene in the seventies. I drank and used Coke daily. As I lost motivation the band and school became a drag. I quit both. Then I lost a long-time relationship because of my infidelities and became depressed. I got two DUIs during that period and didn’t drive for three years. Unbelievably during this time of struggle I met my wife. She was a waitress and I was the night chef. She thought I was a misogynistic ass – I was. But somehow we hooked up and a blossoming relationship began. I tried to be a better person - I really tried. The whole Oakland scene was getting out of hand so Nancy and I moved to Orinda and later Lafayette to get away from it. We got married in 1976. And I focused on being a good husband. I got a job at Trader Vic’s when Nancy was pregnant with our first child, Giorgio. I quit drugs, alcohol and cigarettes and stayed clean and sober for about five years. I also became a long distance runner and practiced martial arts. I was really healthy and I did all the things a Lafayette dad was supposed to do – soccer and baseball coach, helping in my kid’s schools, attending martial arts classes with my son etc. But gradually I started smoking and drinking again after I left Trader Vic’s. Maybe it was the stress of the new jobs. I became a binge drinker for the most part – after all I was working hard and I was under so much stress that I deserved it. I stayed away from coke and other drugs except for pot. This went on for years. Every once in a while I would quit drinking just to prove that I wasn’t an alcoholic. I injured my back in late 2009 and in 2010 the pain became unbearable. After two major surgeries I had become addicted Oxycodone. I also was also taking muscle relaxers and benzodiazepines for the anxiety of withdrawals. I was diagnosed with degenerative disk disease, an incurable condition, and I became resigned to taking drugs for the rest of my life for my pain. I had a justification for my addiction. Without work I started to isolate and drink earlier and earlier during the day on top of all the meds. It helped with my daily withdrawals because I never seemed to have enough oxyies. I switched from wine to vodka and began to hide the empties. This went on until March 2013 when I called 911 because I thought I was having a heart attack or stroke. I was really loaded when I went to the hospital. They detoxed me off the alcohol for five days but let me take my oxyies and gave me Ativan. The day I was released the doctor came in and told me I had a problem with alcohol and that I should go to AA meetings. Thinking back on it I was kind of relieved to hear that. I went to a couple of meetings but I thought that they were religious fanatics and some kind of a cult. I decided I could do it on my own. With alcohol still available in the house I only lasted six weeks, if that. I never stopped taking my other meds. Soon I was drinking way more that before - I quickly went down the toilet. I was starting to get super depressed and suicidal. I went through withdrawals every day and would wake up at 3 AM sick as a dog throwing up and shaking so bad I couldn’t hold a newspaper. If I didn’t have vodka I would drink anything in the house – vermouth, beer, cooking wine – until I could get to the Quickie Mart at 7 AM. I hated my life and I had no idea of what to do. Death seemed like an option. Nancy had had it. She was ready to leave. She started finding liquor receipts and empties everywhere. Just before she left me out my Son found CFR and asked me if I would go. I said yes. My last drink was on September 23, 2013 on the way to detox. The Miracle I spent eight days in detox. My back was still bad and I was feeling like shit, but at the same time relieved. At least I wasn’t having the horrible withdrawals – that was a major improvement. Dr. Von Stieff gave me stretches and exercises to help with my back pain and that gave me hope – something I had lost. At first I was still very unwilling to listen to the lovely folks from AA and NA that came to speak in detox but that gradually changed. My insurance covered my stay in the Residence and I learned how to live with three changes of clothes and no electronics. My housemates were a major part of my newly found life. We were all in pain, suffering, lost and demoralized. But it got better. The Spiritual Awakenings came slowly. Nancy didn’t really want to talk to me and at first and I was broken hearted. But I slowly came to believe that I had to do this recovery thing for myself – a huge concept. Next I gave up fighting to be in control and I gave my spiritual side a chance to develop. As a recovering Catholic I had a lot of prejudices about religion but I was blessed to have a very spiritual housemate and one of the Resident’s Counselors to talk me though it. I thoroughly enjoyed the program. I didn’t have think and everyday was planned to maximize my exposure to the tools of recovery. I learned not to future trip. I tried to be honest, open minded and willing. I was curious about this “recovery thing” so I would hang out in the smoking area and talk to all the newcomers from detox everyday. I would ask them what happened, was it a first time or did they relapse? I listened to the “relapsers” the most… I listened to the “relapsers” the most. Their stories were always the same – they put their job, family, relationships, school or whatever before their recoveries, they stopped going to meetings, they stopped calling their sponsors and they stopped working the steps – most importantly they stopped being grateful… I did not want to relapse – I wanted to learn from them. I was told to do 90 meetings in 90 days – I laughed – but I did it and still attend between 5 and 7 NA and AA meetings a week. CFR requires you to get a sponsor before you “Graduate.” I was lucky to find the person I needed at the “Askitbasket” NA meeting. He is a person who has had decades of recovery, who had relapsed and come back, who had made millions and lost it all, who struggled with relationships and family and wasn’t afraid to cry in meetings. He helped me through the steps and encouraged me to be a sponsor. The process of sponsorship is one of the biggest parts of my recovery. I am blessed to be able to work the steps constantly with my sponsees. They have given me more than I could ever possibly give them and I love them all. I was encouraged by counselors to think about going back to school and studying to be a counselor. After eight months of recovery I took my first class at DVC. I loved it. I just graduated from the Addiction Studies Program with an Associates Degree and a counseling certificate. I also pulled a 4.0 GPA, something I never thought I could do. In recovery I have sailed through cancer, radiation treatments and two surgeries without medications and I have learned how to manage my chronic pain with my new tools. There are financial challenges and the stuff of life but if I stay clean and sober I can face those challenges with my experience, strength and hope. My life now is about the Triangle of Health – Body, Mind and Spirit. I work out everyday, I give back and I do something to improve my mind everyday. I have joined a new band and my guitar playing has improved immensely with out drugs and alcohol. I believe in Quality of Life and it has very little to do with money and material things - it is not having what you want but wanting what you have. I am truly grateful for my recovery. More Family Recovery For all of you who are in recovery, or thinking it might be a good idea, and for all the “loved ones” who might now have come to the conclusion that you can’t “fix it”, the following might strike you as serious and depressing. For all those who haven’t experienced this, you might find the following hilarious, thinking to yourself, “How could these people let this happen to themselves.” My husband got up early one morning and just had to go to the local CVS for some odd reason. I had been trying to “bust” him for a while, but never had the ultimate CSI proof I needed. At this point he was getting sloppy covering his tracks and all I had to do was rummage through the bathroom garbage container and “ta-dah”, there it was! The receipt from CVS (with no extra coupons) with the vodka clearly listed. I immediately marched out to the backyard, paper in hand, waving it around like a flag on the 4 th . Now I know what you’re thinking, “Why didn’t you just hire one of those intervention specialists?” For one, it was 7 a.m., and for another thing, I was sure my way was the best, and lastly, I HAD HIT ROCK BOTTOM . I’ve gone to many meetings since then and inevitably the recovering addict, while sharing their own “experience, strength, and hope”, will tell the audience all about their “rock bottom” moment. I’m here to tell you that I got there first! About 20 minutes, to be exact. In my big sermon and my best non-yelling voice (I didn’t want the neighbors in on our dirty little secret) I simply said that I loved him but I wasn’t going to hang around and watch him kill himself…end of discussion. Then I got really, really angry when he accused me of snooping around the garbage can. “The NERVE”!!!!! As I was heading towards the suitcase area (trying to decide if I should pack him or myself) he finally broke down and hit his own ROCK BOTTOM. Perhaps this is a good time to back up and give you the details about how he got to this stage in his addiction. It’s pretty common and typical. Husband retires, husband has had back issues for a while, husband enjoys vodka and wine. No hobbies except the above. Husband has a “pusher”, a legal one, under the guise of “pain management specialist”. Now in all fairness to the medical profession, I’m sure that they truly believe that a mature adult will follow the directions CLEARLY written on the bottle of meds. “DO NOT TAKE WITH ALCOHOL. TAKE ONE EVERY SIX HOURS OR AS NEEDED’. Well my guess is that these doctors and pharm companies have no idea who they are dealing with. There seems to have come to a point where “managing” pain has become he desired recreational activity of choice for lots of adults, and truly has no age or gender bias. It’s a downward spiral from there, and if you ever were required to read “Dante’s Inferno”, you can see it in level four…on the way to HELL. A few months prior to this day, I had been reading my monthly newsletter from my health insurance company. I’m fortunate to have great coverage, which is one compensation for teaching in a large urban school district. They are painfully aware that the “ground troops” will most likely be in need of both physical and mental health support at some point in their career. There was an article about how recovery programs were covered (I bet lots of teachers need that). I read this out loud to my husband, hoping maybe he would take the hint…What was I thinking? Meet the Rest of the Fam We have two grown children. Our son and his lovely wife have blessed us with four grand children and our daughter…well let’s just say….is the reason you should sit up and pay attention to those public service announcements about locking up your meds. In true codependent fashion, I had been making excuses for why our grandchildren should not drop over to visit. My daughter had been going along for the ride, enjoying the game of hide-and-seek with the meds. Exploding out of denial was a freeing experience and realizing that I didn’t have to live with this guy anymore was exhilarating. The kids somehow banned together and my son quickly researched my health plan and found CFR, called and basically hounded them, and I think somewhere along the line, my husband actually talked to them. At first he said that they didn’t have room that day and then it turned into the next day and the next. In true addict fashion he was putting off the inevitable. I believe it was my son who finally set a date. The timeline is hard for me, because let me remind you, by this time I was OUT OF THERE! My daughter stepped up to the plate and dropped her dad off at the door, drunk and loaded on his meds. I think this experience cured her of her own on and off addiction. To this day my daughter will tell you that it was like dropping a kid off at preschool for the first time. Right now she’s telling me that it was the meanest thing I ever made her do. I love her deeply and will always “owe her one big time”. Singing the Praises of CFR It took a week worth of intense detoxification to get the poisons out of his system. I couldn’t believe that he would be able to survive without his meds, but somehow he managed, thanks to the experienced care of the staff. From there he went to a residence program for 28 days. I attend a weekly family group for the “loved ones” and let me tell you that people share out how happy they are that their addict is safely being watched over 24/7. They talk about it like it’s some kind of dream vacation…hey, let’s go to Bali! That’s what it was like for me. I got to come home after a tough day and not have to face a stumbling human being who was also intent on burning down the house. I could finally just breathe! Then, after a mere five days at the residence I got the “call”. It was on a Friday. Apparently my husband had had a high fever for the past two days and wasn’t doing very well and they wanted me to pick him up. The first thought that came to my head was, “What the f….You’re two blocks from the hospital, just drop him off there!”. But no! I had to pick him up and nurse him throughout the weekend until he could go see our primary care physician. He was diagnosed with walking pneumonia and was sent home with massive doses of antibiotics. Fortunately by that time he was dedicated enough to his recovery that he insisted on finishing his time in the residence. I dropped him back off with a smile and gratitude and resumed my vacation. One of the very best parts about the CFR program is the four week educational piece. As a “loved one” you have the opportunity to attend family group where you are free to vent to your hearts content, and then attend classes along with your addict that explains the medical condition of addiction, codependency, anger management (just for you), and some touchy-feely classes to help you get in touch with your situation (basically coming out of denial). Meanwhile your addict gets to go to lots and lots of meetings on a daily basis. To use a well-wore phrase, my husband took to his recovery like a fish to water. He quickly became the “poster boy” for recovery (in true addict fashion). He got a wonderful sponsor. Just let me say that this is the best invention ever. As you are told in your family group, you have to fire yourself from being the major mechanic in the scheme of things. The sponsor will say things to your addict that you only wished you could say. The sponsor is also on top of the 12 step program and is dedicated to making sure that those steps are being worked on. Your loved one can also share out some shameful feelings that they have to face, preferably not to your face. Self Care Yahoo!!!! There are several organizations dedicated to those who live with an addict. There’s Al-anon, Nar-anon, one for teens, and CODA (for the codependent). CFR has a family group. It was there that I came to the realization that I had my own recovery to attend to. It was tough and I cried a lot. More 2

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FSA Picnic & BBQ When August 21, 2022 at 11:00 AM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Roger Smith Park See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What Our Annual Picnic & BBQ! BBQ, Games, Raffle, and socializing!

2020 FSAA Crab Feed When March 21, 2020, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where First Lutheran Church See map & address 4000 Concord Blvd, Concord, CA 94519, USA Get directions What Come join us for the annual FSAA Crab Feed! The event is open to family and friends of alumni and will feature all the crab and pasta you can eat, guest speaker, and both a 50/50 and prize raffle.

My Items I'm a title. ​Click here to edit me. The Triangle of Health When I recovered consciousness I wasn’t able to move. I was upside down and the steering wheel of the Triumph TR 6 had my arm pinned to the broken glass of the windshield. “Two Trains Running” by the Blues Project dolefully slowed to a halt as the tape jammed in the cassette player. I had just driven off a 40-foot cliff and landed next to the Colorado River. My best friend, the owner of the car, had escaped major injuries and was able to get out the crumpled passenger door. He was trying desperately to lift the car off me as the gas leaked all around, but to no avail. He asked if I was ok and said he was going to climb the cliff to get help. I waited for the fire to start. It didn’t and help was there 45 minutes later. Late the night before we had decided to meet the “ladies” at the Blue Water Resort near Parker Arizona to water ski. We drank beer, popped “bennies” (Benzedrine) and smoked pot through the night as we drove through the dessert. At dawn Rick asked me to drive the last couple of miles along Parker Dam Road – bad idea. We were both lucky to be alive. Now I realize I had an angel looking after me. I slowed down my drug and alcohol consumption after that for a while, but I didn’t quit – I was 19 I was born in Brooklyn but the family moved to California when I was three. We lived in Redondo Beach until I was 14. I went to Catholic school with my four younger siblings. We lived near the beach and that was where I developed a love affair with the ocean. It also helped relieve the fears of being bullied. I used to get abused at the bus stop before school every morning. I often walked to school to avoid confrontations. I learned to body surf and eventually saved enough money for a surfboard – it became my passion and my escape. When we moved to Orange County I felt like my life was over and I had lost my best friend. My dad was a very successful comptroller in the Aerospace industry. Sadly he was never there for me emotionally. We never did things together and he missed most of the important things in my early life – first communion, plays, graduations etc. I felt that I was on my own when it came to learning about life from a man’s perspective. In high school I was one of the smallest students – 120 pounds – and awful at team sports. I always felt less than and got targeted by bullies I had picked up smoking and started drinking beer as a weekly habit during high school. I liked the way it made me feel – my drinking buddies not so much – I always over did it and either threw up or caused a crazed scene attracting too much attention but it made me feel like I belonged and it helped with my fears. I hung out with the alienated surfer crowd and became a 10%er at school – one of the group of individuals that the principal targeted as degenerates. In my senior year I discovered marijuana and psychedelics. The consequences of my drug and alcohol use mounted. After graduation I got arrested in Catalina for trespassing and possession of arsonous paraphernalia (I had learned to blow flames with lighter fluid) I was high on acid and alcohol and I got kicked off the island and asked to never return. Ten of my friends were arrested at the same time because of my behavior. That same summer I had tried to kill myself while drunk by intentionally crashing my car. This came after receiving a “Dear John” letter from my first major crush. Fortunately, I was only knocked unconscious from the crash and did minor damage to my car. Soon after that I quit drinking because of a bleeding ulcer. I switched to pot and other drugs. The next year I went away to college at UC Santa Barbara. Studying took a back seat to surfing and partying and of course, my grades sucked. My dad withdrew his support so I sold marijuana to afford saying there. LSD became a regular escape from reality. I moved to the Bay Area the summer after I quit UCSB. In the Bay Area during the Sixties I did the hippie thing. I joined a band, grew my hair, went back to school and worked in a restaurant. I had many relationships after high school but they were very self-centered and emotionally abusive. I know that I had felt ignored and abused by the opposite sex in high school so maybe I was trying to get even. I didn’t have much to give anyway. Cocaine became part of the scene in the seventies. I drank and used Coke daily. As I lost motivation the band and school became a drag. I quit both. Then I lost a long-time relationship because of my infidelities and became depressed. I got two DUIs during that period and didn’t drive for three years. Unbelievably during this time of struggle I met my wife. She was a waitress and I was the night chef. She thought I was a misogynistic ass – I was. But somehow we hooked up and a blossoming relationship began. I tried to be a better person - I really tried. The whole Oakland scene was getting out of hand so Nancy and I moved to Orinda and later Lafayette to get away from it. We got married in 1976. And I focused on being a good husband. I got a job at Trader Vic’s when Nancy was pregnant with our first child, Giorgio. I quit drugs, alcohol and cigarettes and stayed clean and sober for about five years. I also became a long distance runner and practiced martial arts. I was really healthy and I did all the things a Lafayette dad was supposed to do – soccer and baseball coach, helping in my kid’s schools, attending martial arts classes with my son etc. But gradually I started smoking and drinking again after I left Trader Vic’s. Maybe it was the stress of the new jobs. I became a binge drinker for the most part – after all I was working hard and I was under so much stress that I deserved it. I stayed away from coke and other drugs except for pot. This went on for years. Every once in a while I would quit drinking just to prove that I wasn’t an alcoholic. I injured my back in late 2009 and in 2010 the pain became unbearable. After two major surgeries I had become addicted Oxycodone. I also was also taking muscle relaxers and benzodiazepines for the anxiety of withdrawals. I was diagnosed with degenerative disk disease, an incurable condition, and I became resigned to taking drugs for the rest of my life for my pain. I had a justification for my addiction. Without work I started to isolate and drink earlier and earlier during the day on top of all the meds. It helped with my daily withdrawals because I never seemed to have enough oxyies. I switched from wine to vodka and began to hide the empties. This went on until March 2013 when I called 911 because I thought I was having a heart attack or stroke. I was really loaded when I went to the hospital. They detoxed me off the alcohol for five days but let me take my oxyies and gave me Ativan. The day I was released the doctor came in and told me I had a problem with alcohol and that I should go to AA meetings. Thinking back on it I was kind of relieved to hear that. I went to a couple of meetings but I thought that they were religious fanatics and some kind of a cult. I decided I could do it on my own. With alcohol still available in the house I only lasted six weeks, if that. I never stopped taking my other meds. Soon I was drinking way more that before - I quickly went down the toilet. I was starting to get super depressed and suicidal. I went through withdrawals every day and would wake up at 3 AM sick as a dog throwing up and shaking so bad I couldn’t hold a newspaper. If I didn’t have vodka I would drink anything in the house – vermouth, beer, cooking wine – until I could get to the Quickie Mart at 7 AM. I hated my life and I had no idea of what to do. Death seemed like an option. Nancy had had it. She was ready to leave. She started finding liquor receipts and empties everywhere. Just before she left me out my Son found CFR and asked me if I would go. I said yes. My last drink was on September 23, 2013 on the way to detox. The Miracle I spent eight days in detox. My back was still bad and I was feeling like shit, but at the same time relieved. At least I wasn’t having the horrible withdrawals – that was a major improvement. Dr. Von Stieff gave me stretches and exercises to help with my back pain and that gave me hope – something I had lost. At first I was still very unwilling to listen to the lovely folks from AA and NA that came to speak in detox but that gradually changed. My insurance covered my stay in the Residence and I learned how to live with three changes of clothes and no electronics. My housemates were a major part of my newly found life. We were all in pain, suffering, lost and demoralized. But it got better. The Spiritual Awakenings came slowly. Nancy didn’t really want to talk to me and at first and I was broken hearted. But I slowly came to believe that I had to do this recovery thing for myself – a huge concept. Next I gave up fighting to be in control and I gave my spiritual side a chance to develop. As a recovering Catholic I had a lot of prejudices about religion but I was blessed to have a very spiritual housemate and one of the Resident’s Counselors to talk me though it. I thoroughly enjoyed the program. I didn’t have think and everyday was planned to maximize my exposure to the tools of recovery. I learned not to future trip. I tried to be honest, open minded and willing. I was curious about this “recovery thing” so I would hang out in the smoking area and talk to all the newcomers from detox everyday. I would ask them what happened, was it a first time or did they relapse? I listened to the “relapsers” the most… I listened to the “relapsers” the most. Their stories were always the same – they put their job, family, relationships, school or whatever before their recoveries, they stopped going to meetings, they stopped calling their sponsors and they stopped working the steps – most importantly they stopped being grateful… I did not want to relapse – I wanted to learn from them. I was told to do 90 meetings in 90 days – I laughed – but I did it and still attend between 5 and 7 NA and AA meetings a week. CFR requires you to get a sponsor before you “Graduate.” I was lucky to find the person I needed at the “Askitbasket” NA meeting. He is a person who has had decades of recovery, who had relapsed and come back, who had made millions and lost it all, who struggled with relationships and family and wasn’t afraid to cry in meetings. He helped me through the steps and encouraged me to be a sponsor. The process of sponsorship is one of the biggest parts of my recovery. I am blessed to be able to work the steps constantly with my sponsees. They have given me more than I could ever possibly give them and I love them all. I was encouraged by counselors to think about going back to school and studying to be a counselor. After eight months of recovery I took my first class at DVC. I loved it. I just graduated from the Addiction Studies Program with an Associates Degree and a counseling certificate. I also pulled a 4.0 GPA, something I never thought I could do. In recovery I have sailed through cancer, radiation treatments and two surgeries without medications and I have learned how to manage my chronic pain with my new tools. There are financial challenges and the stuff of life but if I stay clean and sober I can face those challenges with my experience, strength and hope. My life now is about the Triangle of Health – Body, Mind and Spirit. I work out everyday, I give back and I do something to improve my mind everyday. I have joined a new band and my guitar playing has improved immensely with out drugs and alcohol. I believe in Quality of Life and it has very little to do with money and material things - it is not having what you want but wanting what you have. I am truly grateful for my recovery. More Family Recovery For all of you who are in recovery, or thinking it might be a good idea, and for all the “loved ones” who might now have come to the conclusion that you can’t “fix it”, the following might strike you as serious and depressing. For all those who haven’t experienced this, you might find the following hilarious, thinking to yourself, “How could these people let this happen to themselves.” My husband got up early one morning and just had to go to the local CVS for some odd reason. I had been trying to “bust” him for a while, but never had the ultimate CSI proof I needed. At this point he was getting sloppy covering his tracks and all I had to do was rummage through the bathroom garbage container and “ta-dah”, there it was! The receipt from CVS (with no extra coupons) with the vodka clearly listed. I immediately marched out to the backyard, paper in hand, waving it around like a flag on the 4 th . Now I know what you’re thinking, “Why didn’t you just hire one of those intervention specialists?” For one, it was 7 a.m., and for another thing, I was sure my way was the best, and lastly, I HAD HIT ROCK BOTTOM . I’ve gone to many meetings since then and inevitably the recovering addict, while sharing their own “experience, strength, and hope”, will tell the audience all about their “rock bottom” moment. I’m here to tell you that I got there first! About 20 minutes, to be exact. In my big sermon and my best non-yelling voice (I didn’t want the neighbors in on our dirty little secret) I simply said that I loved him but I wasn’t going to hang around and watch him kill himself…end of discussion. Then I got really, really angry when he accused me of snooping around the garbage can. “The NERVE”!!!!! As I was heading towards the suitcase area (trying to decide if I should pack him or myself) he finally broke down and hit his own ROCK BOTTOM. Perhaps this is a good time to back up and give you the details about how he got to this stage in his addiction. It’s pretty common and typical. Husband retires, husband has had back issues for a while, husband enjoys vodka and wine. No hobbies except the above. Husband has a “pusher”, a legal one, under the guise of “pain management specialist”. Now in all fairness to the medical profession, I’m sure that they truly believe that a mature adult will follow the directions CLEARLY written on the bottle of meds. “DO NOT TAKE WITH ALCOHOL. TAKE ONE EVERY SIX HOURS OR AS NEEDED’. Well my guess is that these doctors and pharm companies have no idea who they are dealing with. There seems to have come to a point where “managing” pain has become he desired recreational activity of choice for lots of adults, and truly has no age or gender bias. It’s a downward spiral from there, and if you ever were required to read “Dante’s Inferno”, you can see it in level four…on the way to HELL. A few months prior to this day, I had been reading my monthly newsletter from my health insurance company. I’m fortunate to have great coverage, which is one compensation for teaching in a large urban school district. They are painfully aware that the “ground troops” will most likely be in need of both physical and mental health support at some point in their career. There was an article about how recovery programs were covered (I bet lots of teachers need that). I read this out loud to my husband, hoping maybe he would take the hint…What was I thinking? Meet the Rest of the Fam We have two grown children. Our son and his lovely wife have blessed us with four grand children and our daughter…well let’s just say….is the reason you should sit up and pay attention to those public service announcements about locking up your meds. In true codependent fashion, I had been making excuses for why our grandchildren should not drop over to visit. My daughter had been going along for the ride, enjoying the game of hide-and-seek with the meds. Exploding out of denial was a freeing experience and realizing that I didn’t have to live with this guy anymore was exhilarating. The kids somehow banned together and my son quickly researched my health plan and found CFR, called and basically hounded them, and I think somewhere along the line, my husband actually talked to them. At first he said that they didn’t have room that day and then it turned into the next day and the next. In true addict fashion he was putting off the inevitable. I believe it was my son who finally set a date. The timeline is hard for me, because let me remind you, by this time I was OUT OF THERE! My daughter stepped up to the plate and dropped her dad off at the door, drunk and loaded on his meds. I think this experience cured her of her own on and off addiction. To this day my daughter will tell you that it was like dropping a kid off at preschool for the first time. Right now she’s telling me that it was the meanest thing I ever made her do. I love her deeply and will always “owe her one big time”. Singing the Praises of CFR It took a week worth of intense detoxification to get the poisons out of his system. I couldn’t believe that he would be able to survive without his meds, but somehow he managed, thanks to the experienced care of the staff. From there he went to a residence program for 28 days. I attend a weekly family group for the “loved ones” and let me tell you that people share out how happy they are that their addict is safely being watched over 24/7. They talk about it like it’s some kind of dream vacation…hey, let’s go to Bali! That’s what it was like for me. I got to come home after a tough day and not have to face a stumbling human being who was also intent on burning down the house. I could finally just breathe! Then, after a mere five days at the residence I got the “call”. It was on a Friday. Apparently my husband had had a high fever for the past two days and wasn’t doing very well and they wanted me to pick him up. The first thought that came to my head was, “What the f….You’re two blocks from the hospital, just drop him off there!”. But no! I had to pick him up and nurse him throughout the weekend until he could go see our primary care physician. He was diagnosed with walking pneumonia and was sent home with massive doses of antibiotics. Fortunately by that time he was dedicated enough to his recovery that he insisted on finishing his time in the residence. I dropped him back off with a smile and gratitude and resumed my vacation. One of the very best parts about the CFR program is the four week educational piece. As a “loved one” you have the opportunity to attend family group where you are free to vent to your hearts content, and then attend classes along with your addict that explains the medical condition of addiction, codependency, anger management (just for you), and some touchy-feely classes to help you get in touch with your situation (basically coming out of denial). Meanwhile your addict gets to go to lots and lots of meetings on a daily basis. To use a well-wore phrase, my husband took to his recovery like a fish to water. He quickly became the “poster boy” for recovery (in true addict fashion). He got a wonderful sponsor. Just let me say that this is the best invention ever. As you are told in your family group, you have to fire yourself from being the major mechanic in the scheme of things. The sponsor will say things to your addict that you only wished you could say. The sponsor is also on top of the 12 step program and is dedicated to making sure that those steps are being worked on. Your loved one can also share out some shameful feelings that they have to face, preferably not to your face. Self Care Yahoo!!!! There are several organizations dedicated to those who live with an addict. There’s Al-anon, Nar-anon, one for teens, and CODA (for the codependent). CFR has a family group. It was there that I came to the realization that I had my own recovery to attend to. It was tough and I cried a lot. More 2

FSA 2021 Summer Picnic & BBQ When August 29, 2021, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Rodgers-Smith Park — Pleasant Hill See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What The FSA 2021 Summer Picnic & BBQ is tentatively scheduled. Due to uncertainty with future COVID restrictions this event may need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

Thanksgiving Dinner When November 23, 2019, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where John Muir Behavioral Health See map & address 4080 Port Chicago Hwy, Concord, CA 94520, USA Get directions What Please join us for our annual Thanksgiving Dinner. The event will take place at John Muir Behavioral Health facility on Port Chicago Highway and is open to all alumni, family, and friends.

FSA BBQ and Picnic When August 20, 2023 at 11:00 AM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Rodgers-Smith Park See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What Our Annual BBQ and Picnic. Raffles, food, and socializing! Come support the Fresh Start Alumni!

Holiday & New Year's Party 2019 When December 28, 2019, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where First Lutheran Church See map & address 4000 Concord Blvd, Concord, CA 94519 Get directions What Bring your friends and family and join us for a delicious salmon and prime rib meal, special guest speaker Gene M., and a ton of great and unique raffle prizes!

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2019 FSAA Picnic & BBQ When August 25, 2019, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Rodgers-Smith Park See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What Summer picnic and BBQ featuring potluck, games, music, a staff & alumni softball game, and a raffle for both adults and kids.

FSA Picinic & BBQ When June 14, 2022 at 7:36 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Roger Smith Park See map & address 738 Grayson Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA Get directions What Our Annual Summer BBQ! August 21, 2022 11AM at Roger Smith Park

Latest News I'm a title. ​Click here to edit me. News Title 01 MAR. 23, 2023 I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. Click Preview to see my content. To update me, go to the Data Manager. Read More News Title 02 MAR. 23, 2023 I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. Click Preview to see my content. To update me, go to the Data Manager. Read More News Title 03 MAR. 23, 2023 I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. Click Preview to see my content. To update me, go to the Data Manager. Read More News Title 04 MAR. 23, 2023 I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. Click Preview to see my content. To update me, go to the Data Manager. Read More News Title 05 MAR. 23, 2023 I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. Click Preview to see my content. To update me, go to the Data Manager. Read More News Title 06 MAR. 23, 2023 I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. Click Preview to see my content. To update me, go to the Data Manager. Read More

2019 FSAA Crab Feed When March 23, 2019, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where First Lutheran Church See map & address 4000 Concord Blvd, Concord, CA 94519, USA Get directions What Come join us for the annual FSAA Crab Feed! The event is open to family and friends of alumni and will feature all the crab and pasta you can eat, guest speaker, and both a 50/50 and prize raffle.

FSA 2021 Thanksgiving Dinner When November 20, 2021, 6:30 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where Location is TBD See map & address ​ Get directions What The FSA 2021 Thanksgiving Dinner is tentatively scheduled. Due to uncertainty with future COVID restrictions, this event may need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

Halloween Party When October 26, 2019, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Download to Calendar App or Add to Google Calendar Where John Muir Center for Recovery See map & address 4080 Port Chicago Hwy, Concord, CA 94520, USA Get directions What The Annual FSAA Halloween Party features dinner, bingo, a costume contest for both children and adults!