Diablo Rock Gym has rearranged a number of their classes to give Touchstone members a greater opportunity to work out.

Beginning April 12th, there will be new group exercise classes including a couple of more Zumba classes, an early morning cycling/core class at 6:00 am, and some boot camp classes.

The 6am, Monday and Wednesday class will be a combination of indoor cycling and core work- outs- abs and strength training. Having a strong core is an integral part of moving well, not only on the rock- where it will help keep you tight to the wall, but also in daily use. It helps correct posture, and will make you feel more solid.



Come down to Diablo early on Monday morning and kick it into high gear!

Labels: Core Class, Diablo Rock Gym

This Friday, February 19, from 5-10 pm. The second of the Touchstone Rope Series 4th Competition will be held at Diablo Rock Gym. There will be free pizza, beer, and t-shirts for competitors. The events are always a great time to hang out, climb hard, and enjoy a friendly competitive atmosphere.

It is once again time to get out your rope, tie in and climb. After a year off, Touchstone Climbing is thrilled to bring back the Touchstone Roped Series for its fourth year. This will be a series of five Roped Climbing comps that will be held on Friday evenings, one at each of the five Touchstone locations. All events will include a red point roped comp as well as refreshments, games and prizes. Points will be awarded for each comp with overall winners being announced at the end of the final comp. Climbers are responsible for bring their own belayers.



You can see pictures from last season's TRS now in our online photo gallery.

This will be a self-scoring competition with points being standardized for each comp. This means that a 5.11a route at Mission Cliffs will be given the same points as a 5.11a route at Pipeworks. Scoring will follow the format below:

Each route will be broken down into three scores. The highest score is given for completing a route with no falls. However, points will also be awarded for reaching either of the two way-points on the route. A competitor's final score for a given comp is the total of their three best routes. You will not receive points for the same route twice.

At the end of the series, your final score will be calculated from your 3 highest scoring comps. Once the season starts you will be able to see your current standings online.

For more information about the comp check out the comp page.

Labels: Climbing Competitions, Diablo Rock Gym, TRS 4

Saturday, January 30 from 10:30 to 12:30 at Diablo Rock Gym, Sarah Pascual will be leading a Yoga clinic with a focus on Sun Saluations.

Surya Namaskar:
The Sun is the illuminator of the world and the giver of life. With 108 Sun Salutations, a complete Mala, we will honor the sun and the spring season it signifies. It is said that the classical salutation to he sun, or surya namaskar, contains the whole practice within it. Sun salutations develop strength and endurance, and can be a powerful tool for meditation and self transformation. Come cultivate positive energy to bring in a new season.

Sign up in person or on the phone
$10 for members
$34 for non-members



The Salute to the Sun:

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, Sarah Pascual, Sun Salutations

In the spirit of the Holidays, the gyms will be having different hours. A lot of employees will be visiting family- more of them will be climbing!

Mission Cliffs
Dec 24- 6:30 Am - 7Pm
Dec 25- Closed for Christmas
Dec 31- 6:30 Am - 7 Pm
Jan 1- Closed for New Year's

Sacramento Pipeworks
Dec 24- 9 Am - 6 Pm
Dec 25- Closed for Christmas
Dec 31- 9 Am - 6 Pm
Jan 1- Closed for New Year's

Berkeley Ironworks
Dec 24 - 6am-6pm No Classes
Dec 25 - Closed for Christmas
Dec 26 - 6 am-6pm No Classes
Dec 31 - 6 am-6pm No Classes
January 1 - Closed For New Year's

Great Western Power Company
Dec 24- 6:30 Am - 6 Pm
Dec 25- Closed for Christmas
Dec 31- 6:30 Am - 6 Pm
Jan 1- Closed for New Year's

Diablo Rock Gym
Dec 24th 5:30 am - 6:00 pm
Dec 25th Closed for Christmas
Dec 26th 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Dec 31st 5:30 am - 6:00 pm
Jan 1st Closed for New Year's
Jan 2nd 9:00 am - 6:00 pm


The East Side in the Winter.

Labels: Berkeley Ironworks, Diablo Rock Gym, Great Western Power Co., mission cliffs, Sacramento Pipeworks

The Touchstone Climbing gyms often receive positive feedback from the climbers. In one recent case, former Diablo Rock gym staff member Jeff Sondag's mom sent a poster card from here trip to the Grand Canyon. The coolest part is that the postcard was transported via mule. Its good to see Diablo climbers getting out there!





In other news, on October 8th, the students in the Leaders for Environmental Action Program (LEAP) from Leadership Public School in Richmond participated in a team-building exercise at the Great Western Power Company. They were greeted by a welcoming staff. Vanessa Archambault, LEAP Coordinator, said "Ryan Moon was there to ensure we were climbing safely as well as enjoying ourselves. When one student had trouble starting a route, Ryan was there to offer suggestions and cheer him on." The other students described the fun they had. “It was the most fun I’ve had all year!” -AnnaBelle “It was hard, but at the end I really felt like I got it.” – Jason “I hope we get to do this every month!” Takota

Check out the cool video of the kids climbing and enjoying GWPC!

Leadership Public School - Richmond from GWPC on Vimeo.

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, Great Western Power Co.

Check out the recent video made of the Touchstone Bouldering Series comp at Diablo Rock Gym.

TBS5 @ Diablo Rock Gym from Diablo Rock Gym on Vimeo.

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, Touchstone Bouldering Series

Diablo Rock Gym will be holding two new Yoga classes in the next few weeks. The first, on Saturday, October 24th, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, will be with Angie. She will be teaching Yoga for the lower back.

Voted “Best Yoga Teacher of the East Bay” by Diablo Magazine in 2007, Angie has taught classes, clinics and workshops in the area for nearly eight years. Her training includes dual certification in Yogaworks method and Mark Horner’s Hatha Yoga teacher training program, and an additional 700- hour Structural Yoga Therapy certificate with blessings to practice this unique form of therapy from its founder, Mukunda Stiles. Angie is one of the staff teachers at Yogaworks and Renaissance Club Sport. She also offers private, individualized instruction.

The class is free for members and $24 for non members. Please sign up at the front desk or call 925-602-1000



The second Yoga class will be a beginner's series with Sarah Pascual. The four classes will be held on Mondays in November(2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd) from 7:00 - 8:15 pm. Please register in advance with the front desk. The $20 charge for members includes all 4 classes.

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, Yoga Classes, Yoga for Beginners

The crowds packed in Diablo Rock gym for the comp last Friday night. Over two hundred climbers and spectators gathered together to crush over fifty new boulder problems. Gregor Pierce won the comp by nabbing the top five most difficult climbs in the first hour and fifteen minutes. Gregor then climbed the rest of the fifty-nine new problems rounding off an excellent evening of bouldering. In an equally impressive effort, Nick Erikson, devoured some great pie winning the pie eating contest. Congratulations to both competitors and the hundreds of climbers who came out and helped polish off two kegs and fifty-five pizzas. TBS5 at the DRG was an awesome!



Pictures of the comp can be found at the Touchstone Gallery.

Scores for the comp can be found at the score site.

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, Gregor Pierce, TBS5

Morgan Laney, a long time Touchstone Climber and Diablo Rock Gym staff member, married her fiance, James 'Cade' Peirce last Saturday. Morgan will be moving on from her position at DRG and into her happy future. Congratulations to the happy couple.

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, Morgan Laney

This Friday evening, 6pm on August 21, 2009, the second of the Touchstone Bouldering Comps will be held at Diablo Rock Gym. Join hundreds of other Touchstone members to participate in one of the Bay area's best climbing events. There will be tons of new problems, t-shirts for competitors, great beer, and plenty of fun.



Also: From Wednesday to the start of the comp the bouldering will be closed.

Labels: Climbing Competitions, Diablo Rock Gym, TBS5

As the California budget crisis worsens, budget cuts are starting to have a big impact on many of the programs that we as Californians hold dear. One of these is our State Parks and Andrew Descalso, the manager at Diablo Rock Gym is doing something about it. He and his friends have organized a rally to help focus attention to the very real possibility of us loosing many of our State Parks.


Come on down and wear as little as possible Speedos & Bikini’s...we need to draw some attention to the matter. Body paint or write your favorite park all over yourself. Those fully dressed, come down to support and watch. (Have a bike? Bring it and ride around the block, please follow all the laws and wear a helmet)

"Even if you are not planning to visit a park soon, the governor's short-sighted proposal will impact you and every California resident. It is the very definition of "penny-wise, pound foolish".

Consider the facts:

FACT: The General Fund budget that state parks receive account for less than 1/10 of one percent of the entire state budget.

FACT: Last year alone, there were over 80 million visitors to state parks – and all indications are that this year was going to be even higher.

FACT: For every dollar that funds the parks, $2.35 is returned to the state's General Fund through economic activities in the communities surrounding the parks.

That means eliminating all funding for state parks could actually result in the state losing over $350 million dollars in revenue.

For the financial well-being of our state, we must oppose this reckless plan. We have had the displeasure of notifying you of threats to our parks in the past. But this is the worst threat to park system in its 150 year history."

Please visit http://ga3.org/campaign/budget_may09 to send a letter to the Governor and your local representative, it only takes a minute.

There is also have a facebook invite page.

Labels: Budget Crisis, California State Parks, Diablo Rock Gym, Facebook, Walnut Creek

If you missed out on this earlier this month at Mission Cliffs its not too late. This Saturday, May 30th at 7:00 pm Diablo Rock Gym is hosting a slideshow presentation from none other than Hans Florine. As tickets are only $10 for members and $15 for non-members, you shouldn't even dream of missing out on this.

Here's a bit more.

"Hans was on the cover of the SF Chronicle FOUR TIMES last year for breaking the speed record on The Nose route on El Capitan in Yosemite. Hans will share with you the story of his relationship with The Nose route over the past 21 years. And will show you a peek at the new Masters Of Stone VI DVD that features Yuji and Hans' record ascent. See more at speedclimb.com and mastersofstone.com $10 members $15 non members. Tickets available now at the front desk. Light refreshments served. --- www.HansFlorine.com Speed Expert"

We hope to see you there, trust me, this is something you won't want to miss out on.

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, El Capitan, Hans Florine, Slideshow, Speed Record

April is right around the corner and with that, our Diablo Rock Gym is going to have a brand new Artist of the Month that will be featured for the entire month. If her name, or her work sounds familiar, it should, she was actually one of our featured artists at Mission Cliffs. We loved her work so much we asked her back to Diablo Rock Gym for April.

Here's a bit about the artist, Leila Chirayath Janah, and what you can expect to see throughout April at DRG:

"Leila Chirayath Janah hails from a family of artists. Her uncle, the Bengali photographer Sunil Janah, documented the people’s struggles against colonialism and the emergence of independent India after 1947. Her grandparents, Christiane Zeebroek and Ashis Janah, founded one of the India’s most respected pottery houses and produced commercial work from the 1950s to the 1980s in their Calcutta studio.

Janah began taking photographs in her teens during her travels in over fifty countries, mainly in the developing world. She developed a passion for photography after living and teaching in a small village in Ghana, where she learned the importance of images in forming personal narratives, particularly among people whose stories are often overlooked by history books and mainstream media.

After receiving a BA in African Development Studies from Harvard, Janah founded Samasource, a social enterprise that helps marginalized small business owners in Africa and rural Asia connect to clients. She lives in San Francisco and continues to photograph boxers."

Stop in, check it out and enjoy the show.

Labels: Artist of the Month, Arts, Diablo Rock Gym, Featured Artist, Photographer, Photography

Diablo Rock Gym recently saw a community group come through it's doors and by all accounts it looks like everything went perfectly. The group was called RES Success, or Redefining Educational Services and after their visit they were nice enough to send over a few photos and a card. We were lucky to have you guys.

Here's a little bit more about RES Success:

For close to two decades, RES SUCCESS (Redefining Educational Services) has provided developmentally disabled individuals with a safe, supportive, and beautiful environment in which to learn and grow. We believe passionately that every person, regardless of how they were born, deserves to lead a fulfilling life and reach their own personal potential.

Our multiple locations in Northern California provide specially-designed behavioral modification and community inclusion programs in an exceptional environment. Students in our day programs participate in a variety of enriching experiences, such as attending classes at Diablo Valley College, preparing for meaningful employment, and participating in some of the diverse activities that the Bay Area has to offer like the Museum of Modern Art, the local farmer's market, or a game of bocce ball.

RES SUCCESS uses a clinically proven model of care that helps students work towards a common goal of independence and self reliance. Our successful approach also provides significant savings to the State of California.

Thanks again to everyone, we hope to have you again in the future!

Labels: Community Group, Diablo Rock Gym, Groups, kids, RES Success, Testimonial

Heads up to all you female climbers out there, tomorrow night, March 11th, is Ladies Night at the Diablo Rock Gym. You may not know it already, but the 2nd Wednesday of every single month is Women's Night at our gym and any female who comes in to purchase a day pass will get it for only $10 instead of the usual $16 after 3:00 pm.

Open up your calendar for tomorrow night, the 11th and get in here to do some climbing. At only $10 you can't really find a better, more fun, or healthy way to spend an evening. Plus, saving money in this economy is always a good thing.

Hopefully we'll see a lot of you there, remember, it's Ladies Night, so come in and have a great time!

Labels: 2nd Wednesday, Diablo Rock Gym, Ladies Night, March 11, Women's Night

Here's a quick update about the TBS4 event we held at Diablo Rock Gym at the end of February. First and foremost, it was a HUGE success! We want to take a moment to thank everyone for competing, for showing up, for taking part in what was a great day.

This event at DRG was part 4 of the TBS4, and our grand finale will be March 20th, at Berkeley Ironworks. We were lucky enough to have Ben Molale, one of our members as the DJ for the event and saw a record breaking number of competitors for DRG as 196 of you showed up to compete.

So, while you're waiting for the Finale event, here are some things to keep you busy in the meantime. First off, why don't you check out the results and individual competition scores from this TBS4 at Diablo Rock Gym. Congratulations to all the winners and to everyone that showed up to compete.

One of our members, Paul Hara took a bunch of photos that you can browse in case you were unlucky enough to miss the event, or if you want to try to spot yourself in action. Finally, check out the video below to get a full flavor of what went on.

Thanks again to everyone that made TBS4 such an amazing success!

Labels: Competition, Diablo Rock Gym, DRG, event, TBS4, Touchstone Climbing

All you bouldering fans we have some good news. We're having a huge bouldering competition this Friday night from 6-10pm at the Diablo Rock Gym. That's right, TBS4 is coming to Diablo Rock Gym and this is one you're not going to want to miss.

Registration for this TBS4 starts at 5:30pm. Here's a bit more about what to expect at this competition:

"Registration starts at 5:30 pm. This is a friendly non-competitive competition. Beginners are welcome, if not encouraged to come have fun and climb some great problems. The event is free for members or $10 for non-members. We will be serving free pizza. Also we will have beer from Pyramid Brewery, in Walnut Creek, we will have a keg of their seasonal amber, Rollick. Also we will be having one of our members spin some beats on a speaker system compliments of the Guitar Center in Concord. "

All Diablo Rock Gym members, please take note that ALL bouldering will be closed from Wednesday til Friday at 6:00pm when the competition starts. Be aware that some route climbing areas will also be closed on Thursday but will reopen Saturday morning. Finally, most of our route climbing will also be closed Friday night for the competition.

Get registered and we hope to see you there, should be a great time for all.

Labels: Bouldering, Diablo Rock Gym, DRG, Events, TBS4, Touchstone Climbing

Did you know that in climbing, the more Ape you are, the better? That's right, your ape index actually says a lot. If you've never heard of an ape index, don't worry, you're not the first, and you certainly won't be the last. Here's a quick update to let you know that for the entire month of February at Diablo Rock Gym we have an interactive art project going on that helps you measure your ape index.

Now, a quick primer:

"Ever wondered what your Ape Index is? Well this month at the DRG you can find out what it is and see how you compare to other climbers. The Ape Index is an informal measure of one's armspan relative to height. Among rock climbers it is seen as desirable to have an arm span that exceeds one's height. Your ape index can be calculated by the subtracting your height from your armspan. The greater the number, the higher your ape index. So come on down and measure yours today - While you still can! "

So if you're in the area head in and get measured, if you're a member, take a few minutes after your next climb or workout and log your ape index. See how you all stack up.

Labels: Ape Index, Artist of the Month, climbing, Diablo Rock Gym, Interactive Project

No plans for Valentines Day yet? We have the perfect thing for you and your significant other to do that doesn't involve expensive restaurants or overdosing on chocolate. This Saturday, February 10th from 1-3 pm, instructors Allan and Dawn will be hosting a Partner Yoga Workshop at Diablo Rock Gym.

If you're a member, there is no charge for the workshop, and for all of you non-members it will only set you back $24. All we can hold is 20 people (10 couples) so advanced registration will be required. Just stop by the font desk to sign up or ask for more information. Here is a bit more about what to expect:

ABOUT THE CLASS

Please join Allan and Dawn, who have been teaching Partner Yoga Workshops for the past 5 years, for this fun filled two hours that will include partner pranayama, seated, standing and restorative yoga poses. Partner assisted yoga enables us to move more deeply into postures than we can on our own - it’s a wonderful experience to rediscover familiar poses with a partner. We will end the day with partner massage, savasana and more. No previous yoga experience is necessary to enjoy the benefits of this workshop – just a sense of adventure. So find a partner and join us!

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS

Allan Jacinto R.YI. is a certified Ashtanga Vinyasa instructor who has been teaching Flow and Beginner Ashtanga, as well as Yin and Gentle Yoga for Seniors in the Bay Area for the last 6 years. ajyoga2002@yahoo.com. Dawn Hall has been teaching yoga for the past 6 years and practicing yoga for the last 16 years. She currently teaches alignment based flow classes with a focus on proper muscle engagement and energy flow. She is also the owner of Lifestretch Yoga studios located in Fremont and Milpitas.

Labels: Allan and Dawn, Couples Yoga, Diablo Rock Gym, Partner Workshop, Workshops, Yoga

Just a quick note and a big thank you to Danny Grace for all of his art he had up at Diablo Rock Gym! He had to take the art down the other day and we just wanted to say Thank You for the showing. In case you didn't know, or were some of the unfortunate few that didn't get a chance to check it out, we were featuring photography from an amazingly talented photographer, Danny Grace.

Here is his artist bio and note, it's great to get a little insight into the man behind the lens. If you missed out, don't worry, February will feature some amazing interactive art from our very own Patti Phillips!:

"Photography has been life long passion of mine. I have always enjoyed having beautiful photo’s to remember the place’s we have been. Only recently with retirement have I been able to take this passion of mine to another level and accomplish a dream to share beautiful moments in time with more than just my family and friends. I have been published in magazines, books, newspapers and a calendar. I also have had the privilege to have an art show and have a photo shown on the news for channel 5. You may have already seen my photo’s as they are displayed at several different businesses. I hope that when you look at my work you can have fond memories of time spend in these places or have dreams of going there yourself. I want to inspire people to dream and live their dreams. I hope that you will enjoy the work and maybe want to share it with your family and friends as well."

Labels: Artist of the Month, Arts, Diablo Rock Gym, Featured Artist, Photography

I can imagine the daily grind of gym work can really start to get under your skin after a few months. Don't get me wrong, we all have some of the most rewarding, fulfilling, and just plain FUN jobs you can imagine, but every now and again don't you agree, people just need to take a day to get out there and completely let loose? Agreed.

I'm happy to report that your friendly staff at the Diablo Rock Gym did exactly that a few days ago. After all, we'd prefer them to all feel completely healthy, happy and sane while they're helping us fly up their climbing walls, now wouldn't we? Thanks to Andrew at DRG, we found out they took a Staff Trip to the Scandia Family Fun Center last week and had an absolute blast. They went Go Kart Racing, played some Laser Tag, and yes, even had a rousing game of Miniature Golf.

In case you're wondering, the Blue Team was decimated by the Red Team in Laser Tag, Mini-Golf scores ranged from 47 to 77 on only 18 holes, with our man Keith taking home the top spot, and to put it mildly, not a single person racing in the Go-Karts undersood the sign that read "No Bumping." Oops.

Nevertheless, it looks like they had an amazing time, and I for one am glad to see not only the fun they had, but the relaxing day they all go to spend. Looks like a ton of fun guys!

Labels: Andrew, Diablo Rock Gym, DRG, Go Kart Racing, Laser Tag, Mini Golf, Play Day

Here's a quick heads up for you this fine Monday Morning. First and foremost, here's hoping that you had a fantastic, perfect, amazing Holiday Season, and while New Year's Eve is right around the corner, hopefully your Christmas was enough to get you rested up for this new year.

That said, just got some info in from Andrew at Diablo Rock Gym that might interest quite a few of you. This coming January 17, from 9 am til 6 pm we're going to be hosting the Primary Group Workshop for AFAA Certifications. The cost of this bad boy will run $299 for the whole deal. On January 18th, the following day, we will be holding the Floor, Core & More Workshop that will also run from 9 am to 6 pm and will run $129. In case you're not exactly familiar with what I'm talking about, here is a bit more on AFAA Certifications and what will be going down:

WHAT IS IT?

A review of AFAA’s Basic Exercise Standards and Guidelines, anatomy, exercise science, exercise evaluation and exam criteria concludes with the practical and written exams. The format includes:

• Practical application of group exercise • Study guide overview • Questions and answer session

WHO IS IT FOR?

For group exercise instructors whose training and educational background has prepared them to take the AFAA Primary Group Exercise Certification exam. • Prerequisites: Early Registration, self–study before program and group program and group exercise teaching Experience. • Current CPR Certification required before certification is issued.

WHAT DOES IT COST?

The workshop fee is $299* (less a 10% discount for current AFAA members). This fee includes:

• Full one-day Certification Workshop • Primary Group Exercise Certification Study Guide (shipping additional) • One-year AFAA membership ($68 value) or membership extension to current members and a subscription to American Fitness magazine (does not include postage to addresses outside the U.S.) • AFAA Certified Instructor certification and I.D. card (upon successful completion of both written and practical examinations) CPR certification required before certificate is issued.

If you're interested you can sign up online or by calling the AFAA. Check out their site for more information. See you there!

Labels: AFAA Workshops, Certification, Diablo Rock Gym, DRG, Events

The economy is struggling, but that doesn't mean you have to be. Looking for a job? Need Part Time, or Full? There are few better things you could do than to check out Touchstone’s Employment Page. Right now Diablo Rock Gym is looking for full time staff to work at the front desk along with a teen climbing instructor and core/abs instructor.

If you are interested, or think you might have what it takes, head over and check out the Employment Page to get more details on what we're looking for. For all the other gyms, keep in mind that we are always looking for quality staff to fill a variety of positions at our different locations. There are always new positions opening up, so if you are looking for a job, be sure to check here often.

Bottom line, we'd love to have you as part of our staff, and if you've got what it takes you should get ahold of us. Right now, Diablo Rock Gym is needing three positions filled, here's what we need in more detail:

Front Desk Staff: Diablo Rock Gym is looking for a dependable, hard working and self-motivated individual to work full time at our front desk. We are looking for climbers with flexible schedules, who are able to work mornings, evenings and weekends. A friendly demeanor, great customer service, good judgment and basic climbing experience are a must. Experience lead and top-rope climbing, as well as bouldering are desired. Full Time is 32-40 hours per week. We provide heath insurance and dental insurance for full time employees after three months of full time work. Full time desk staff also get discounts on gear and clothing as well as a free membership to the gym.

Core/Abs Instructors: DRG is looking for energetic Instructor's to teach a Core/Abs class weekday evenings. Fitness instructors must be reliable, motivational, and supportive.

Teen Program Instructor: DRG is looking for a instructor to help teach teenagers basic and advanced climbing skills from 4:00-6:00pm Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Instructors must work well with teens and have climbing experience.

If you would like to apply drop by a resume with references to manager, Andrew Descalso desk staff applicants please fill out this application as well.

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, Employment, Hiring, Jobs

Just a quick Friday note to let you know that we're still in dire need of any and all food you can donate to our Food Drive! After they did a check, it seems like the food barrels at Diablo Rock Gym are almost completely empty! We're coming up on the tail end of the food drive for Contra Costa and Solano Food Bank and we'd love to completely restock our supplies and help get food into the hands and stomachs of those that need it the most.

Here are a couple of notes on what we need, when we need it, and how you can help!

• We need all food to be dropped off before Monday the 22nd.
• Donation barrels are located at the front desk.
• Needed items are iron rich cereal, 100% fruit juice, canned fruit (in juice), dry beans, canned vegetables and tomato products, enriched rice, powdered milk, canned meat and fish, enriched pasta and peanut butter (plastic container). Please donate nonperishable food items, (no glass containers please).
  

Of course our most sincere thanks go out to you in advance. Let's fill these barrels and help feed those that need it the most! It's the Holiday Season, time to give back!

Labels: Charity, Contra Costa, Diablo Rock Gym, Donate, Food bank, Food Drive, Solano Food Bank

Look out look out all you Diablo Rock Gym members, we've got some pretty cool news for you if you're going to be in and around the area come January! That's right, the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) are going to be having some of their workshops at the Diablo Rock Gym!

That's right, January 9-11, 2009 kicks off the workshops for Personal Fitness Trainer Certification. On the 9th we'll be going from 1-9:30pm, and on the 10th and 11th, we'll be rocking from 8am - 6pm. The price for this set will be $469. On January 17, they'll be having the Primary Group Exercise Workshop from 9am - 6pm and this workshop will be $299. Finally, on January 18th, from 9am - 6pm for $129 they'll be having the Floor, Core & More Workshop, and this one is only $129.

The AFAA is in full control here, DRG will just be the venue for all this craziness! Something to keep in mind, however, is that all Touchstone Members will receive a 25% discount off these sessions if you email Andrew@touchstoneclimbing.com by midnight next Monday! For more information on what to expect at these workshops, head over to the AFAA site and check it out. Hopefully we'll see you there!

Labels: Aerobic, AFAA Workshops, Diablo Rock Gym, DRG, fitness, Personal Trainer, Workshops

We are only a few days away from Thanksgiving my friends, and that means, we're also only a few days away from the biggest shopping day of the entire year! It's officially Holiday Season and as such, you might be thinking it's time to start finding some gifts for those loved ones of yours. Lucky for you, I have just the thing: New t-shirts are in at Diablo Rock Gym!

Word on my block is there are 5 different colors and 3 different designs in the new Men's shirts; that's 15 variations to help you shop for just about anyone! For the ladies we have 3 different colors and 2 awesome and unique styles. We've got T's, Long Sleeve, Zip Hoodie, Regular Hoodie, and we're sure that at the prices, you'll find them to be quite a steal.


T-shirts are only $12.50, Long Sleeve's only $15 and the hoodies are only $37.50. Man, talk about making your Christmas shopping easy! Head over, get a good climb in, and leave with a bag full of stuff for all those on your shopping lists!

Labels: Christmas, Diablo Rock Gym, DRG, Holiday, Hoodies, Shopping, T-Shirts

If you've been in Diablo Rock Gym lately you've probably noticed some extremely beautiful, extremely impressive photography gracing our walls. This art comes to us from Beth Witrogen and to say the very least, her stuff is extremely impressive. Lucky enough for all of us, she's also given us a little biography of herself so we can officially learn more about the talent behind those beautiful photos!

Here, is some more about the extremely talented Beth Witrogen:

I’ve been a Bay Area photographer for more than two decades, from ballet to birds — and Cal water polo. These images reflect my passion for the outdoors and cycles of nature. Learning to see light and appreciate that each moment is unique and fleeting infuses my work with a sense of joy, fragility, and strength. I love the painful fragility of light at dawn and dusk, and am always trying to capture what can’t be grasped. I call it “halflight” — where the mystery and passion for life merge.

I also love the personalities of birds as they go about their business just being birds. They teach me so much about freedom and focus — and patience ?.

I’ve had several shows over the years, including ballet images at the S.F. Opera House, and more recently exhibits of my birds and nature work at Shadelands and City Hall in Walnut Creek. I’ve also exhibited at Lynn House Gallery in Antioch, the Flyway Festival at Mare Island, and have been featured the Contra Costa County Watershed calendars since 2005. My images have been published in WildBird and Terrain magazines, The San Francisco Examiner, and Brentwood Press among other papers. I’ve also done commission work, including Bay Commercial Bank in Walnut Creek (black & white large-format posters).

I’m looking forward to traveling around to great climbing sites and not only climbing – but shooting nature and climbers. Stay tuned! My full portfolio, including portraits, sports, architecture and nature, is on my website at: www.witrogenphoto.com.

Thanks & enjoy the show! (Please ask at the front desk for the price list for these images.)

Mobile: 925.323.6065
beth@witrogenphoto.com www.witrogenphoto.com

Enjoy the amazing artwork and if you fall in love with any of the prints, talk to Beth or the Front Desk to see a full price list! Thanks again Beth, keep up the amazing work!!

Labels: Arts, Beth Witrogen, Diablo Rock Gym, DRG, Featured Artist, Photography

Well well well, not only are they one of the coolest climbing gyms and fitness facilities, they're also jumping on board the technology bandwagon! Good news for all you hardcore Diablo Rock Gym fans out there, now you can be a fan in real life, and on the Internet as well! That's right, DRG has a Facebook Page and by the looks of things, it's buzzing.

We've already got 36 fans of the good ol' DRG and its constantly being updated with videos, photos, wall posts, event invites and a lot of other goodies to come in the future. Here's the jist, from DRG themselves:

"We made a facebook for the Diablo Rock Gym. Facebook users can sign up to be "Fans" of the gym and stay informed on events like competitions. We also posted an old competition video and some photos, but users can post pictures and videos as well. Can you give a shout out the the DRG members to check it out, become a fan, and post anything they like that is DRG related. "

I don't know what you're waiting for! Head over to Facebook, log in, and become a fan ASAP! We'll see you there!

Labels: Diablo Rock Gym, DRG, Facebook, Facebook Page, Fans, Internet

August 21st was not just any ordinary Thursday, it was the DRG's annual blood drive. Touchstone sends a big thanks to those members at the DRG who braved the needle to donated blood. 23 donors in all came out to give 14 units of blood which was enough to save 42 lives. Way to go everyone!

Labels: community, concord, Diablo Rock Gym, members

Next time your at Diablo Rock Gym you may notice a little more color on the wall, its not the neon route setting tape, but the artwork that brightens the front entry way and locker room walls. It is the art of Leisa Laney Waldron, the older sister of our superstar front desk staff Morgan.

"My married name is Leisa Waldron, but I still paint under my maiden name of Laney. As a little girl, I was always coming up with new ideas and projects to express myself creatively. I have had the opportunity to sell paintings and images all over the country. I have also had my work shown and sold in galleries, wineries, and through custom design. I have been painting from my home studio for eight years. I love anything and all things creative.

The subject matter and style in which I paint today differs greatly from what I learned while in college studying graphic and fine art. After studying all of the mathematical aspects of art, I knew what I loved most about creating was to make something of my own. I have learned that I love the simple things in life, and that can be seen in my finished works today."

My studio is out of my home in the San Francisco East Bay, California. For more information or to purchase any of her lovely workt visit her website www.laneyfineart.blogspot.com or email her at laneyfineart@gmail.com

Labels: concord, Diablo Rock Gym, members

New to Yoga ? Never tried? Looking for a place to start? This August Diablo Rock Gym will play host to a 4-part beginner's series for Yoga. Learn yoga basics at a comfortable pace in a supportive environment. Poses will be broken down and individuals specific needs addressed. It will take place Tuesday evenings from 5:00-6:15pm on August 5th, 12th, 19th, & 26th. The cost is only $20 for members, thats just $5 a session ($60 for non-members). Sarah Pascual one of our great yoga instructors will be leading the series. Sarah also teaches five different Vinyassa classes each week at Diablo Rock Gym.

Have questions or would like to sign up? Please call out friendly staff at 925-602-1000.
Pre-registration and payment is required.

Labels: concord, Diablo Rock Gym, fitness, Yoga

If your like most you already knew that Diablo Rock Gym was cool. Now it's even cooler thanks to the three new air conditioning units that were recently installed. Next time your in take a look up and you will notice the new duct work above the front desk and weight room. Thank you to those who were patient during the construction.

Labels: concord, Diablo Rock Gym

The Touchstone Rope Series visited Diablo Rock Gym last Friday with just under one hundred competitors joining in the fun. Not all 18 routes were sent but the tricky beta of the night goes to the 11.D with a finger crack that thwarted most. Climbing movies and guitar hero entertained spectators and those who turned in their scorecards early. The usual pizza and beer ended the night well and according to most people the night received two thumbs up.

Labels: climbing, comps, concord, Diablo Rock Gym, Touchstone Roped Series

Friday may be the 13th but yours won't be unlucky if you come by the Diablo Rock Gym for a fun filled night of friendly competition. There is no need to cower at home in fear of black cats or broken mirrors when you think of all the great things you'll be missing. When you combine great climbing, free pizza, beer, & T-shirts any superstitious thought should be a fleeting memory. There will be 18 stellar new routes ready to be sent. This will be the second of five rope climbing competitions in the third season of the TRS. To learn more click here. Registration opens at 5:30pm. Climbing starts at 6:00pm and ends at 10:00pm. This is a FREE event for members and $10 for non-members.

Labels: climbing, comps, concord, Diablo Rock Gym, Touchstone Roped Series

Tired of your little monkey climbing all over the house? Then sign them up for a week of rock climbing. Summer camps are help at Berkeley Ironworks, San Francisco's Mission Cliffs, Oakland's Great Western Power Company, Concord's Diablo Rock Gym, or Sacramento's Pipeworks. Camps usually run M-F from 9am to noon beginning in June and running through August. Check with your local gym for times and specific details.

Campers will learn how to climb and belay in a supportive, fun, and safe environment. They will also try their hand at rappelling, ascending, slack-lining and playing many climbing games. Rock climbing emphasizes life skills such as confidence-building, self-esteem and goal-setting and is a great way to get kids to be active. Safety and having fun are our top priorities. Sign your kids up today!

Labels: Berkeley Ironworks, climbing, concord, Diablo Rock Gym, Great Western Power Co., kids, mission cliffs, oakland, Sacramento Pipeworks

On May 1st, former Mission Cliffs & Touchstone Concord employee Avery McClenahan gave birth to her first child. 'Berkeley Vector' was born at 2:30pm and both mother and child are doing well and home from the hospital. Avery is in her final weeks at UC Berkeley where she is double majoring in economics and art history.

For those who may not know Avery, she is the daughter of head route setter Craig McClenahan. This is Craig's first grandchild but don't try and call him 'grandfather.' When asked, Craig said he is not a granddad but rather 'Granddude.'

All of us at Touchstone wish Avery and Berkeley all the best, as well as a huge congratulations to Craig on becoming a 'Granddude.'

Labels: concord, Craig McClenahan, Diablo Rock Gym, mission cliffs, staff

This past Saturday Diablo Rock Gym hosted a local red point rope climbing competition as part of the USA Climbing Sport Climbing Series. It was a window into the future of climbing with most of the 60 competitors under the age of 19 and as young as 8 years old. To view results please visit the competition page and to see photos visit the online gallery. Wish them all luck for the duration of the season and at the upcoming Northern California Regional On-sight competition on May 17th at the Great Western Power Company.

Labels: comps, concord, Diablo Rock Gym, kids

It is once again time to get out your rope, tie in and climb. Touchstone Climbing is pleased to bring back the Touchstone Roped Series for its third year. This will be a series of five Roped Climbing comps that will be held on Friday evenings, one at all five of the Touchstone locations. All events will include a red point roped comp as well as refreshments, games and prizes. Points will be awarded for each comp with overall winners being announced after the final comp. The first event will be held Touchstone's newest gym, the Great Western Power Co. in Oakland on May 16th. There will be a comp each month for the following five months, with the finale coming in September at Mission Cliffs in San Francisco.

Labels: Berkeley Ironworks, climbing, comps, concord, Diablo Rock Gym, Great Western Power Co., mission cliffs, oakland, Sacramento Pipeworks, Touchstone Roped Series

CrossFit has been wildly popular at Ironworks and the Great Western Power Co. and now has made its way through the tunnel to Diablo Rock Gym. Come check out a class if your looking for a great generalized full body workout that is adaptable to all levels and abilities. Class are offered Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30-6:30pm and Saturday from 1:30-2:30pm. Don't forget that these classes are free to members like all of our yoga and cycling classes. Save a tree and check out DRG's Calendar online.

Labels: concord, Diablo Rock Gym, fitness, Yoga

On an extremely rainy and windy Sunday recently, staff members from Touchstone gyms in Berkeley, Sacramento, Oakland and Concord, teamed up to race each other around Oakland’s Lake Merritt. Hosted by Lake Merritt Joggers and Striders (LMJS), the Couples Relay event featured a two-person relay, with each runner given a 5K leg around the lake. At 30 years old, this unique competition is LMJS's oldest foot race. Having already run this race several times in the past, Great Western Power Company staff member Skimra Rodriguez thought it would be fun to challenge her colleagues at Touchstone to team up with a staff member from another gym. Thanks entirely to her stellar performance, Skimra along with Pipework’s Vaughn Medford won bragging rights as the fastest pair, but not without good-natured promises of revenge next year from the other teams.

Labels: concord, Diablo Rock Gym, Great Western Power Co., oakland, Sacramento Pipeworks, staff

Starting this February Diablo Rock Gym will be installing a air conditioner throughout the gym in an effort to keep the building more temperate over the summer.

This plan dates back over a year ago to the beginning of 2007 when Lyn Verinsky the new Manager of the GWPC in Oakland started this master plan. (Please forward all thanks to her).

During construction we ask for your patience in advance as some of the weight
room and other areas of the gym might be in disarray. We’re sure you won’t mind the discomfort when your chilling off during the heat of July.

Photo Caption: Stage 1: Hauling Supplies to the Roof

Labels: concord, Diablo Rock Gym