MAY 07 Clayton Pioneer 2010.pdf by Pioneer Publishers

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

May 7, 2010

925.672.0500

Summer concerts open with classic rock and roll NICCI SHIPSTEAD Clayton Pioneer

The Concert primed Clayton

third fabulously free in The Grove series is and ready to ignite rockers. Shows begin

this Saturday, May 8, with Aja Vu featuring danceable R&B and classic rock hits from Steely Dan, Sly and the Doobie Brothers. “This is promised to be the best season as far as quality of bands,” said Councilman and

concert organizer Howard Geller. “We took back the cream of the crop.” Mamaluke – with four members who attended Clayton Valley High, Mixed Nuts and Diamond Dave from Lafayette

all return as popular favorites for their third year. New bands include Laurent Fourgo & His Orchestra on July 31, fulfilling a popular request for big band sound. The group boasts a six-piece horn section

and soaring vocals. “Swing appeals to another generation,” promised Councilwoman Julie Pierce, concert coordinator for the city, “and introduces the younger generation to big band sounds.”

CBCA’s annual Art and Wine Festival now a regional event

DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

MAYOR’S CORNER

When Karen Leffler sets a goal, very little gets in her way. Whether it’s a fear of public speaking, rain on the day of a planned hike or even encountering an angry rattlesnake coiled on a hiking path, she’s going to find a way around it and reach her goal. Once terrified of speaking

Creating character as a community

See Shelter, page 11

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

DON FITZGERALD, LEFT, ART AND WINE FOUNDER AND EVENT CO-CHAIR KEITH HAYDON stroll Main Street during the 15th annual CBCA Art and Wine Festival last weekend. All proceeds from the event are donated to local schools and charities. TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

If you were looking for sunshine, fun shopping, good eating and plenty of wine, then downtown Clayton was the place to be last weekend for the 15th annual

CBCA Art and Wine Festival. Booths selling everything from tattoos to teriyaki, jewelry to jambalaya and bonsai to “Lee and Larry’s Bad-ass BBQ” lined Main Street and filled the food court. By mid-afternoon on

Saturday, Keith Haydon, cochairman of the two-day event, thought the weekend crowd might top 50,000 – a long way from the two or three thousand that attended the first festival in 1995. “We had less than 50 vendors

at the first one,” recalls event founder Don Fitzgerald, who serves as advisor to co-chairs Hayden and Ed Hartley. This year’s event drew 120 vendors from all over California.

See Art & Wine, page 6

Photo by Ed Rose

KAREN LEFFLER, left stands with friend Pam Appel at Cataract Falls on Mt. Tamalpais on a recent fundraising hike for Shelter, Inc.

Spend a lovely day on the Clayton garden tour NICOLE HACKETT Special to the Pioneer

See Mayor, page 18

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

See Concerts, page 19

Volunteer hikes it into high gear to aid Shelter, Inc.

HANK STRATFORD

When Benjamin Franklin was 20, he launched an ambitious plan to achieve “moral perfection.” His plan included identifying 13 virtues and systematically focusing on each virtue. The 13 virtues were temperance, silence, order, resolution, frugality, industry, sincerity, justice, moderation, cleanliness, chastity, tranquility and humility. Franklin worked on these virtues throughout his life. Recently, a group met to discuss the concept of a community-wide character development program. The goal wasn’t to achieve “moral perfection” but to infuse positive character traits into the culture of our schools and community. Principal Patti Bannister, vice principal Connie Cirimeli, campus supervisor Debbie Farley and Parent Faculty Club president Alison Bacigalupo were in attendance from Diablo View Middle School. Vice principal Rick Leach from Clayton Valley High School also was there. Unfortunately, an emergency prevented principal Bob Dodson of Mt. Diablo Elementary from attending. In addition to representatives from the schools, Clayton Business and Community Association president Ed Hartley and vice president Keith Haydon, Clayton Police Chief Dan Lawrence, retired educator Kay Lane, organizer/facilitator Candace Bass and Clayton

A new country band also should satisfy some requests, Pierce noted. The Michael Paul Band, slated for July 17, entertains with hot new country and Southern rock.

SEE THE POSSIBILITIES OFFERED BY ALL NATIVE PLANT GARDENING at landscape designer Kelly Marshall’s Clayton home on the Clayton Gardens Tour, May 7-8.

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Church News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Many honor their moms and motherly figures on Mother’s Day by giving flower bouquets, flowering plants or cards with flower prints. This Mother’s Day weekend, perhaps you could spend time with your mom, grandmother, aunt, sister or friend while looking at the flowers during the Clayton Historical Society’s 18th annual Clayton Valley Gardens Tour. The tour takes place 10 a.m.4 p.m. Friday, May 7, and Saturday, May 8. Touring Clayton Valley gardens with someone

Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Clayton History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Community Calendar . . . . . . . . . . .14 Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . .5 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

you love and appreciate would be a great prelude to this nationally recognized holiday. The gardens exhibited during this year’s tour have something for any type of garden lover. The panoramic views surrounding the California living landscape at the home of John and Meridy Challoner is breathtaking. All of the spring rain has kept the hills beneath Mt. Diablo lush and green, creating a beautiful backdrop to the Challoners’ pool and waterfall. The slope garden behind the outdoor kitchen is in full bloom, with alstromeria, wallflower and lantana. The Challoner home has

From the Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Letters to the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Movie Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 On the Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Parenting Today . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Police Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

dynamite curb appeal, with traditional plantings and cool green grass. The Clayton garden of Kelly Marshall and Michael Weidner is a contrast to traditional landscape. This home’s entire front yard is planted with California natives. From afar, the front looks cottage-like with piles of purple, deep pink and white flowers. Walk the stone path to get a better look at the vast selection of California natives represented in this landscape. Or sit upon the iron bench for another view. A Mediterranean inspired

See Garden Tour, page 20

Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 School News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 7, 2010

Around Town Daisy Scouts wrap up food drive

Ashleys host symphony fundraiser

Clayton officer named MADD hero, 4th time

CLAYTON OFFICER, Corporal Richard Enea with Chief of Police Dan Lawrence at the MADD awards on April 24.

ABC7 NEWS ANCHOR DAN ASHLEY and his wife Spalding are former Clayton residents. Ashley emcees the annual July 4 parade in downtown Clayton.

ABC7 news anchor Dan Ashley and his wife, Spalding, will host this year’s spring benefit for the California Symphony at their home in Walnut Creek home. “Virtuoso al fresco” will feature premiere wines, exquisite artisanal faire and a chance to meet acclaimed music director Barry Jekowsky and his wife Rosalind,. The event is scheduled for Sat., May 15, 3-6 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased online at www.CaliforniaSymphony.org or by calling the Symphony office at (925) 280-2490.

In November of 2008, the girls of Daisy Girl Scout Troop 30905 began bringing cans of food to their scout meetings. Finally, in February this year,

they had 190 pounds to donate to the Contra Costa Food Bank. Pictured are: Back Row Olivia Yoshii, Francesca Brinkerhoff, Frieda Nemon,

Brenna Duggan, Kamryn Coyne, Alexa Turnage; Front Row - Rochelle Cloven, Emmy Kinney, Lauren Wickham, and Lainey Djajakusuma.

The word is definitely out. If you’ve been drinking, it’s not a good idea to drive anywhere near Clayton – especially, not

Falcons cheer squad takes second at nationals The Clayton Valley Falcons enjoyed fine seasons last fall on the football field and the local club’s cheer squads carried that success into 2010 as they took second place at the USA Junior Nationals at Disney’s California Adventure in Anaheim. Coaches Karla Rousseau and Alexa York took their team of 10- to 12-year-old girls to the junior nationals after what Rousseau termed “an amazing” season with the Clayton Valley Athletic Association.

The squad of girls from Clayton and Concord includes Alexis Cannedy, Morgan Dyer, Monae Freeman, Kalise Mamea, Katie Mayhew, Leila Odgers-McGuire, Holly Price, Kaitlyn Rousseau, Alex Williams and Sarena Wisyanski. The girls are getting ready for the 2010 football season. Teams are now being formed for ages 5-14. For more information, visit cvaafalcons.com or call 927-7377.

Clayton

Clayton Oakhurst Country Club! Stunning Serenade model on a HUGE lot! 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, approx 3,079sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage! Den/down bedroom with closet & French doors. Elegant living and dining rooms. Gourmet kitchen boasts professional grade stainless steel appliances, maple cabinets, pantry & corian counters. Expanded family room with fireplace & hardwood floors! Spacious master suite. Huge park-like approximately .50 acre lot with sport court, lush sprawling lawn area and a variety of maturing trees, colorful ornamentals, flower & ground cover. $729,000

on Clayton police officer Rich Enea’s shift. For the fourth time, Enea has received the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Hero Award in a presentation ceremony in Sacramento on April 24. During 2009, Enea made 35 DUI arrests accounting for 61 percent of the department total. “He definitely has a knack for spotting the bad driving that can signal a drunk driver,” says Police Chief Dan Lawrence. Lawrence and his wife Sandy, Clayton officer Shanna DeCoite and Enea’s parents and sister were on hand for the presentation. Enea’s father, Rich Enea, Sr., retired from the Clayton police force in 2005. Officer DeCoite was recently voted Officer of the Year by her peers at the Clayton Police Department.

GEORGE VUJNOVICH

Oakhurst Country Club!

Broker Helping friends, neighbors & newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979 Large “Serenade” model at the top of Falcon Ridge on a prime view lot overlooking City, valley & hills below! 3 bedrooms plus a Den, 3 baths, approx. 3079sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage! Gourmet kitchen opens to large family room. Spacious master with magnificent views! $719,000

georgevujnovich.com

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated. Better Homes DRE#00933393

Clayton

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Sprawling Single Story Rancher

in a serene wooded setting located on a quiet court! Pride of ownership abounds! 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, approx. 2109sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage! Large kitchen featuring slab quartz counters & an abundance of oak cabinets including a butler’s pantry opens to adjoining family

Oakhurst Country Club! “Serenade” model in Falcon Ridge backing to open space! 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, approx. 3079sf, 3 car garage & 3 fireplaces. Extensively upgraded throughout from flooring to window coverings! Downstairs bedroom and full bath + a den. Large master with fireplace overlooks open space. Private lot boasts an refreshing in-ground pool with spa and waterfall feature and tropical themed landscaped with a nature fence that allows yard to blend into open space! $749,000

Gourmet kitchen boasts travertine tile floor, custom tumbled travertine tile counters, custom hickory cabinets & stainless steel appliances. Large master suite features a dramatic ceiling & a multitude of windows offering magnificent views! A truly beautiful, serene and natural setting. $495,000

room with stone fireplace. Living & dining room. Private lot boasts mature towering redwoods & pines, multiple decks, a relaxing spa & large lawn area + side yard with storage shed! $639,000 Contact Jennifer Stojanovich at (925) 567-6170 or jenstojanovich@yahoo.com

Clayton Market Update provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS

PRICE

5297 Herriman Drive ................$555,000 458 Grenache Circle ................$655,000 403 Mount Sequoia Ct .............$680,000 219 Mountaire Circle ................$560,000 3054 Windmill Canyon Dr ........$645,000 179 Mountaire Parkway ...........$365,000

SF . . . . .1618 . . . . .2391 . . . . .2694 . . . . .1919 . . . . .2854 . . . . .1800

BED/BATH

SALE DATE

. . . . .4/2 . . . . .4/29/10 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . .4/29/10 . . . . .5/2.5 . . . .4/20/10 . . . . .4/2 . . . . .4/20/10 . . . . .4/3 . . . . .4/20/10 . . . . .3/2 . . . . .4/19/10

ADDRESS

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3365 Aspara Drive....................$405,000 20 London Court ......................$562,500 172 Brandywine........................$780,000 407 Grenache Circle ................$659,000 3908 Coyote Circle...................$400,000 1351 Yosemite Circle ...............$460,000

SF . . . . .2204 . . . . .1648 . . . . .3308 . . . . .2052 . . . . .1595 . . . . .1609

BED/BATH

SALE DATE

. . . . .3/2.5 . . . .4/16/10 . . . . .3/2 . . . . .4/16/10 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . .4/15/10 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . .4/12/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .4/8/10 . . . . .4/2 . . . . . .4/7/10

May 7, 2010

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Around Town McTeacher’s at McDonalds raise money for McStudents

Auction benefits high school sports program The United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation raised over $25,000 at its first Sport Aid 2010 dinner, dance and auction at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek. Former Clayton Valley High School football standout and long-time Oakland Raider Sam Williams was one of the celebrities on hand to help raise the money that goes to the six high school sports programs in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. CVHS Athletic Director Pat

MDES teachers were behind the counters and wiping tables at McDonalds on Clayton Road April 27 in a fundraiser hosted by store owner, Brad Goldblatt. McDonalds donated 20 percent evening’s revenue to MDES PFC, netting $885 for supplies

for supplies, yard duty support, computer technology and a host of other programs and items. Pictured are Helen Coverdale, Charles Mori, Kelly Mori, Ronald McDonald, Doris Ong, Mitzi Schenke, and McDonald’s Franchise Owner Brad Goldblatt.

‘Murder by Checkmate’ exposes small town’s dark side in library mystery spoof The Clayton Library Foundation wrapped up the library’s 15th Birthday Celebration last week with “Death by Checkmate,” a murder mystery written and produced by CVHS Arts Academy seniors Christine Sifferman and Isa King for their senior projects. The two-act play, in classic “whodunit” style, featured a cast of familiar locals and included City Manager Gary Napper and his assistant Laura Hoffmeister; Clayton Pioneer publisher Tamara Steiner, Contra Costa County librarian Ann Cain, City Councilman Howard Geller, Mayor Hank 1

Stratford, former council member Gregg Manning and Clayton Community Church pastor Shawn Robinson. Before the show and during intermission, the audience examined strategically placed clues and listened carefully as the characters in Act I “accused” each other of the dastardly murder of the wealthy and powerful Charles

Jamison. At the end of intermission, they turned in their own best guesses. Library volunteer Marnie Malcolm correctly guessed the murderer to be Charles Jamison’s illegitimate daughter and and won a book bag with Ed’s gift certificates and a cookbook. The play is done on each 5year anniversary of the library.

Garden Tour brochure to feature watercolor by local artist When the Clayton Historical Society needed ideas for a cover for the Garden Tour brochure,

HomeTeam Sports Photography

OAKLAND RAIDER Sam Williams with CVHS athletic director Pat Middendorf

Middendorf is chairperson of the foundation. Among the honorees that night were Debra and Steve Gonsalves and Mike and Laurie Rose, who have been big boosters of UMDAF. The foundation’s next event is Bay Area KidFest in Downtown Concord on Memorial Day Weekend May 29-31.

Photo by Jim Leffler

KAREN LEFFLER’S WATERCOLOR of the museum will be the cover of the Garden Tour brochure

$629,000 3030 Windmill Canyon, Clayton Windmill Canyon – “Sunset” landscaping in back including fruit trees. Pristine 4BD/2.5BA offers master suite w/two closets & gorgeous kitchen w/island.

they went no further than the Clayton Valley Arts Collaborative. Local artist, Karen Leffler, submitted the winning design. Her watercolor of the Clayton Museum was one of four entries and won on a tie breaking vote. “We had 16 members voting and it was a four-way tie,” says historical society member Linda Pinder. “Then the 17th member came in and broke the tie.” The winning painting will be on display at the museum during the Garden Tour May 7 and 8. Leffler, however, will be leading a fundraising hike in the Grand Canyon for Shelter, Inc. See story page 1.

$569,000 4004 Hummingbird Way, Clayton Oakhurst “Ironwood” – Sought after one-story "Augusta" model home offers 3BD/2BA & numerous exquisite upgrades. Professionally landscaped for curb appeal. MyHummingbirdHome.com

NEW PRICE!

144 Widmar Place, Clayton $669,000 Mitchell Canyon – 4BD+office/2.5BA offers fantastic location & perfect updates including expanded master suite w/deck & spa. Expansive yard. WidmarPlace.com

Clayton Resident & Broker Owner

Photos by Arlene Kikkawa-Nielsen and Mike Dunn

Clockwise from top: 1) Laura Hoffmeister and 2) Gary Napper both come under suspicion as siblings and partners in a local law firm; 3) Student writers and producers, Christine Sifferman and Isa King; 4) Jamison’s illegitimate daughter and reporter for the Clayton Weekly News, played by Tamara Steiner, is led away in handcuffs by police officer played by Stephen King; 5) Napper, Hank Stratford as Jamison’s son and a local pastor foiled by Jamison in his attempt to expand his church each point to the other as possible suspects in the murder.

$485,000 3014 Windmill Canyon, Clayton Windmill Canyon – PRICED TO SELL! 3BD/2.5BA with RV parking & a big yard with a great patio. Fabulous floor plan & lots of windows to bring in light.

5498 Michigan Boulevard, Concord $349,000 Clayton Valley Highlands – 3BD/1BA with large yard & potential RV parking. Bright,updated kitchen with ample storage & indoor laundry for convenience.

NEW PRICE!

$779,000 379 Mt. Sequoia Place, Clayton Dana Hills – 5BD/3BA located on the end of a court offers 3 car garage & RV parking. Upgraded doors & windows w/Mt. Diablo views. SequoiaPlace.com

1169 Via Doble, Concord $569,000 Pine Hollow – Pride of ownership shows in this 4BD/3BA offering updated flooring, paint & carpet. Backyard pool & decks for entertaining. 1169ViaDoble.com

5537 Alaska Drive, Concord $349,000 Clayton Valley Highlands – Remodeled kitchen w/ breakfast bar is great to keep the fun going. Spacious Florida room & fenced yard at this 3BD/1.5BA.

DRE# 01122025

Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 7, 2010

Clayton is cleaner thanks to community effort Clayton hates trash. That was clear the morning of April 24 when more than 150 locals turned out at City Hall for Clayton Cleans Up. First up was coffee, donated by Peets in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center. Then to the registration table where participants signed in and picked up their trash bags and Clayton Cleans Up t-shirts supplied by Allied Waste and Cathy’s Custom Creations. The annual event, which coincides with Earth Day, is a “spiff-up” day to get the town

ready for the Art and Wine Festival the following weekend. All morning, adults and kids with big orange trash bags were visible all over town, picking up litter, sweeping up cigarette butts, pulling weeds and combing the streets and trails for hidden treasure. One young woman pulled a tire from the creek and rolled it all the way back to the dumpster at City Hall. This was the second Clayton Cleans Up for the Reiser family. “It stays with you throughout the year,” said Mike Reiser. “Now when we see a piece of

trash, we stop and pick it up, notes Patrick, 11. “Kind of turns you into trash Nazis,” laughed mom Tory. After a couple of hours of hard work, the trash patrol was rewarded with a BBQ lunch back at City Hall, compliments of Allied Waste. The event is sponsored by the Clayton Pioneer and the city of Clayton. Photos: 1) Clayton Pioneer publisher Bob Steiner and account exec Randy Wenger; 2) Councilwoman Julie Pierce rescues recyclables from the

Councilman Gregg Manning tosses loaded trash bags into the dumpsters provided by Allied Waste

trash can; 3) Daisy Girl Scout Troop 30905 ready to head out on their trash hunt; 4) BBQ chefs Councilman Howard Geller, Allied Waste sponsor Fred Repetto, Keith Hayden and Steve Pierce; 5) Photographer of the day, Pete Barra; 6) John Blatter, 9 (with shovel), Neal Meyer and Dane Sorenson, 10, of Cub Scout Pack 492 scoop cigarette buts and litter on Center Street; 7) Hungry trash collectors wash up for lunch; 8) Peet’s Coffee and Tea donated the gallons of coffee that fueled an early morning start - pictured are baristas Roya Biarash and Max Marcil; 9) former

Photos by Pete Barra and Tamara Steiner

1 5

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Jean and Joe Alamillo – Grandparents of Emma & Jack Skow

Peter Tamases & Assoc.

Constellation Wines US, Jason Fabrizio

Prima Ristorante

The Dianda Family

Paul and Diane Temple – Grandparents of Sophia Brown Elegant Occasions, Catering Sponsor

The Lingua Family is going to the A’s game!

Great entertainment by MDE Dads’ band

The Millers are going to the Beach! At Left: Mary Del Monte’s supporting MDES – Going Behind the Scenes with Dan Ashley!

ZÉÄw fÑÉÇáÉÜá Cam Larner is going to Esperanza in Punta Ballena, Cabo San Lucas!

Denny Walch, Kris Karr and ARAMARK Sports & Entertainment ARAMARK Uniform Services, Toni Mancini Canon Business Solutions Castlerock Arabians Cegielski Jewelers

D & D Jewelers, Moe Ansari Fit 2 the Core Horizon Beverage, Al Stellini Kelly Marshall Garden Design Law Office of Joel A. Harris Longfellow Wines, Mark & Kristy Smith

Please show your appreciation by supporting our sponsors.

Moresi’s Chophouse, Ed Moresi Redwood Painting Co., George and Mary Del Monte Roberta Mendonca – Grandmother of Georgia & Laine Moraes

The Keils – looking forward to the 4th of July parade Fire Truck ride.

The Annisons support MDES – Going to Sonoma and Cline Cellars!

The Family of Alexandra Picklolick The Ryan Kearney Family The Gallagher Family The Baum Family Virgin America & the Levy Family No Parking in the Wishnow’s Spot!

Check out: http://mdes.maestroweb.com for a full listing of our generous sponsors. The MDES PFC thanks all the volunteers, teachers, and parents who helped us make this our BIGGEST AND MOST SUCCESSFUL MDES Auction!

May 7, 2010

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Upcoming Events P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor R ANDY W ENGER , Display Advertising P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports C HRISTINA S CARLOTT , Administrative Assistant S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Lou Fancher, Nicci Shipstead, Pam Wiesendanger, Mike Dunn, Harry Stoll

MAY 8 FARMERS MARKET OPENS Fresh fruits and veggies, bakery items, live music. Saturday mornings 8 a.m. until noon through October. Diablo Street between Main and Center. See story on page 9 and ad on page 21 for Mother’s Day coupon.

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

PIONEER INFO

criminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.

Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Randy Wenger Randy@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send Church News to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com

Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com

CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: Non-profit: $12 for first 30 words, $.20 each additional word Individual/non-commercial: $18 for first 30 words, $.30 each additional word Commercial: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word

MAY 8 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Spread blankets after 4 p.m.. Bring a picnic dinner and kick off the concert season with Aja Vu. 6-8 p.m. in The Grove. For more details, see story on page 1. MAY 8-9 GARDEN TOUR This self-guided tour, sponsored by the Clayton Historical Society includes six gorgeous Clayton gardens. Tour hours 10 a.m – 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. See Page 1 for garden preview and more information.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 250 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter in a Word document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.

To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 6720500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Or, you may fax your typewritten ad and credit card information to (925) 672-6580. All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that dis-

SERVICES Girl Gardening Garden care for your roses, perennials and ornamentals. Monthly pruning and fertilizing services. Plant suggestions and

FREE

$ 20 off

Spring Check-Up

TIRE ROTATION

ANY SERVICE EXCEPT SMOG with coupon only

JUNE 14 CLAYTON CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT CBCA’s 24th Annual Clayton Classic Golf Tournament will be held at Oakhurst Country Club. Tee time (shotgun start) is 12 noon. Registration and a box lunch will be served beginning at 10 a.m, with a full sit-down dinner after the tournament. Application deadline is May 28. For a registration form, go to www.claytoncbca.org/golftournament.

Classified

SPRING SPECIALS

CLAYTON VALLEY SHELL

MAY 15 SPRING PLANT SALE The annual Clayton Valley Garden Club plant sale, will feature vegetables, herb gardens, color bowls. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Endeavor Hall parking lot, 6008 Center Street. One-Gallon plants are $4. Buy five and get one free. MAY 31 MEMORIAL DAY Sponsored by the VFW, this annual service remembers those men and women who have lost their lives in defense of the nation. The one hour service with speakers, traditional observances and music by the middle school bands and local choir Yesterday’s Kids begins at 10 a.m. at the VFW flagpole on Main Street.

Includes inspection of tires, belts, hoses and fluid levels.

$25 value

$57 value

installation. If you want more flowers this year, call or email Nicole Hackett 673-1746, or gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.

WANTED Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today (925) 672-8787.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED Contra Costa County Fair The Fair needs some helping hands during the Exhibit Judging days on May 19 and May 26. Volunteers will assist the judges and clerks and will organize exhibits for the judges. By helping on a judging day, volunteers will get a preview of all exhibits entered in the Fair. For more information, please contact Karen Howe at (925)757-4400 or email khowe@ccfair.org.

Offers may

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Free shuttle service for major repairs Mechanical repairs and computer diagnostics including 30K, 60K, 90K factory maintenance on all European, Imported and domestic vehicles.

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Meals on Wheels Drivers 673-0300 or hairbyjim@sbcglobal.net. Anna’s Attic Volunteers Call 674-9072 or (925) 7665066. Hospice of the East Bay Call Volunteer Dept. at (925) 887-5678 or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org. Clayton Historical Society Museum Call the museum at 672-0240. Clayton Community Library. 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org

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QUESTIONS ABOUT DELIVERY OF YOUR CLAYTON PIONEER? The Clayton Pioneer is published twice a month. The paper is distributed FREE to all of Clayton (94517) by direct mail and to 7600 selected addresses in 94521 by home delivery. If you live in 94521 and wish to stop delivery, please call our home delivery service, ABC Direct at (510) 532-2432. If you are outside of our free distribution area and want to receive the Pioneer, please call (925) 672-0500 to subscribe. Annual subscription is $50.

Page 5

Directory of Advertisers Auto Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Children’s Services Kid’s Choice Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-9543 Construction and Trades Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Closets & Kitchens Van Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-7557 Haddon Heating & Cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .521-1380 Handyman Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .639-4209 LHI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-9941 Smith & Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0138 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dentist Children's Dentistry of Walnut Creek . . . . . . . . . .938-2392 Renner, Jason D.D.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800 Rissel, Richard D.M.D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Willows Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .957-2500 Events Pacific Coast Farmers Market

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Page 6

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May 7, 2010

Art & Wine, from page 1 The huge crowds are good for business, say the downtown merchants. The Clayton Club was packed and owner Steve Barton ran out of buns for his tri-tip sandwiches before 5 p.m. Cup ‘O Jo, Canesa’s deli and Johnnie’s International Deli reported a steady stream of business all day. At Ed’s Mudville Grill, there was an hour’s wait at dinner time. “Maybe this is a signal that the economy is turning around,” noted Cup ‘O Jo owner, Priscilla Barbosa. New to the event this year were the private security guards at festival exit points and the chain link fence between the Village Market and the park – measures designed to keep alcohol confined within the festival boundaries. These measures were in response to concerns raised by the Alcohol and Beverage Control at last fall’s Oktoberfest. The Art and Wine Festival is one of three major fundraisers sponsored by the CBCA each year—the others being the Oktoberfest and the Clayton Classic Golf Tournament. Profits from these events fund donations to local schools and charities. “If we do as well as we think,” says CBCA treasurer Jennifer Giantvalley, “we could net as much as $100,000.” This is in stark contrast to last year’s Art and Wine when a sick economy and bad weather kept both vendors and their customers at home. That event netted barely $25,000. The CBCA is a civic organization dedicated to “the good of the Clayton Community.” For membership information, go to www.claytoncbca.org or call 672-2272.

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

1) A jubilant CBCA Treasurer Jennifer Giantvalley was predicting a possible $100K for charity from this year’s Art and Wine; 2) New this year, Elite Jazz Band; 3) A corn dog was first up for Gianni Castoro who came with his mom Marissa from San Francisco for the “fair on the side of the mountain;” 4) Tattoos, permanent and temporary, were the “art” of the day 5) Eric Sundlin and Fredetta Pardini kick up a little dust to ‘Honky Tonk;’ 6) The Kettle Korn booth has been on this corner at every Art and Wine since the first.

Upgrades planned for Mt. Diablo summit visitors center The Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association is working with Mt. Diablo State Park officials to make significant improvements to the Summit Visitors Center. Scheduled for completion in mid-2010, the visitor center is being remodeled to be more accessible and improve the interpretive experience. It will be the first update since the center opened in 1993. Most of the funding is provided by the state Department of Parks and Recreation. MDIA is supplementing funds for key improvements.

For example, MDIA plans to provide a computer kiosk for interactive park information and a new handicap accessible entrance door. The group also will supply interpretive materials for some of the new displays and renovate the sales and gift area. “We are excited to offer this renovation to our visitors,” said park superintendent Roland Gaebert. “The people of the Bay Area have a long history of developing and supporting Mt. Diablo State Park.” According to MDIA presi-

5433 D Clayton Rd., Clayton

dent Jim Mitchell, the visitor center hosts thousands of visitors from all over the world. The building was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps from fossilladen sandstone quarried in the park. It was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1949. To complete the work, MDIA has launched a $30,000 fundraising campaign. Donations can be sent to MDIA, P.O. Box 346, Walnut Creek, CA 94597. For more information, contact Leslie Dawson at 945-7722 or leslie@forensicCPA.com.

www.claytonbookshop.com

May 7, 2010

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Letters to the Editor A ‘small world’ story Sometimes “it’s a small world” doesn’t always convey the power of the message. Last month, Victor Thole died tragically at 88. His path crossed my father’s on Guadalcanal 68 years ago. Both men went ashore assigned to the Second Marine Aviation Battalion on Henderson Field in those dark days before any major land success for an America avenging Pearl Harbor. Both men faced the same unknown that became a three month hell before the tide turned. Victor was the father of Tamara Steiner, publisher of the Clayton Pioneer. My father, Robert Armstrong, was one of two corpsmen (medics) serving the needs of the battalion as they faced shelling from offshore and bombing raids from above. Victor was a corporal serving the needs of his pilots and planes. Surely their paths crossed, as everyone eventually came to “Doc” Armstrong for

malaria, fungal, dysentery and other debilitating infections, not to mention the constant threat of trauma from explosions and infiltration by Japanese commandos. Tamara and I are acquainted by our service to and interest in all things “Clayton;” children of heroes but not knowing. Now it’s too late to put all things together. My father passed a few years back at age 86. He was born seven years before Vic, but their common valor knew no age. If you have living veterans take time to learn their stories before they too pass from the scene. How I wish Vic and “Doc” could have reunited while both lived in this small world. - Bob Armstrong Clayton

Some ‘tea party’ comments Pete Laurence called (The Tea Party event on April 15 in The Grove) “an Americana event,” yet he called critics of

Bush, the Commander in Chief, to be unpatriotic, terrorist sympathizers. One tea partier told me he favors a theocracy, as long as it’s Christian, of course. Paraphrasing the gentleman – I don’t have to research facts; my conservative Christian radio show tells me all I need to know. Do tea partiers really want to lower taxes, or just reject giving fellow Americans the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness? I don’t want higher taxes and I do think what is morally right for all Americans can be accomplished without raising taxes. - John Carr Clayton . . . If it’s our paper, why do you keep quoting Pete Laurence, time and time again? You’ve never published my opinion before. We’ve read his right wing, conservative statements many times in the Pioneer. Now the Tea Party movement gets his endorsement and on the front page no less. Taxes on the middle class are the lowest they’ve been in 50

years (look it up) and suddenly it’s “Patriotic” to not want to pay them. That’s not what my parents taught me. Chevron made $35 billion dollars in the U.S. in 2009 and paid $0.00 in federal income taxes in the U.S. Again, look it up. Is that patriotic? They paid income tax in every other country in the world in which they operated but not to the U.S. taxpayer. That’s why the middle class taxpayer feels over taxed and somewhat, rightfully so. The middle class has always paid more than their fair share yet we don’t expect rich people or corporate America to pay their’s. Why aren’t the Tea Party activists calling for the oil, coal, and financial industries to pay their fair share of taxes instead of shoveling out billions of dollars worth of bonuses. Is this “Patriotic” too. Again, that’s not what I was taught. It’s time to grant another Clayton resident the freedom of speech; or do some people have more freedom to speak than others? If so, that’s unpatriotic as well as bad journalism. - Gary Rutledge Clayton

Copper wire thefts on the rise

Local business pays high price for copper theft

Page 7

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Part of the Clayton Station was without power for four days recently when thieves, after the copper wire in the conduit, cut the power line. Jocelyn Jensen, owner of A Perfect Tan and Body Wrap says her business was down 90 percent during the three and a half days it took to repair the line. “We’re struggling right now, like everyone, and then this hits,” said Jensen, who recently opened a second location on Clayton Road in the TJ Maxx Center. According to Clayton police, thieves cut the power line on April 24, sometime between 9 p.m. and 9.a.m. the next morning, and stole 170 feet of copper tubing valued at between $7,500 and $10,000. Police ask anyone with information to call the department at 673-7350. Copper thefts are on the rise, says Police Chief Dan Lawrence, because worldwide industrialization has driven up the price for scrap metal. For more on this, see Lawrence’s “From the Chief ” column on this page.

“We do a dog gone good job”

DAN LAWRENCE

FROM

THE

CHIEF

Theft of scrap metal, mostly copper, has plagued many areas of America for the past several years. These thefts usually increase when worldwide prices for scrap metal rise. In recent years, the prices for metals have risen dramatically due to rapid industrialization in India and China. The metals most commonly stolen are copper, aluminum, brass and bronze. In 2001, scrap metal sold for $77 per ton, increasing to $300 per ton in 2004. In 2008, the price hit $400 per ton. Most law enforcement officials believe many thefts are perpetuated by addicted methamphetamine users. However, this varies by location. The increased price of scrap metal seems to support an increase in metal thefts. However, there is evidence that when the price of metal drops, metal thefts may actually increase in order to compensate for the loss in value. Regardless of the reason, developing nations such as

China, India and South Korea are fueling the demand. The city of Clayton has not gone unnoticed by copper thieves. During the past year, at least three copper wire thefts occurred in Clayton. Thieves took copper wire from the light poles along the trail from the middle school to the community park. Although no copper wire was taken, thieves pried open the boxes at the base of two neighboring light poles on Oak Street – exposing a stretch of wire that connects the poles underground. The thieves then snipped the wires and left the area. The thieves apparently were not able to return to complete the theft of the copper wire. The most recent case occurred at the Clayton Station during the hours of darkness. Thieves took copper wire from conduits behind the east wing of the shopping center. The total loss was estimated at $7,500-$10,000. The theft of copper, bronze and brass has also occurred in neighboring communities of Concord, Walnut Creek and Pleasant Hill. Clayton officers are diligent in their patrolling habits and

cover virtually all of Clayton’s 42 miles of roads and streets. The officers are looking for suspicious activity or behavior that could be criminal activity. When they see it, they stop and investigate. Street lights, machinery or other equipment requiring copper wire are usually located in plain view of the general public. The officers need your help. If you see work activity near a light pole by people who do not appear to be associated with the city, PG&E or other utility, please call the police immediately. This activity could be copper thieves at work. If you are a victim of a theft, call the police immediately. Do not disturb anything or clean up until the police say it is OK to do so. If you have any information relating to the theft of scrap metal or any crime, please call the Clayton Police Department at 673-7350.

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Former Pioneer owner gets jail time for tax woes Bay Area publisher Harry Warren Green will spend five months in jail and five months under community confinement for filing false tax returns for 2000-’03. Green operates several newspapers in the Bay Area, including the Brentwood Bee, Bethel Islander and the Oakley Herald. He is the former owner of the Clayton Pioneer. In his plea, Green admitted that he under-reported income received while operating these newspapers and failed to report the proceeds of the Clayton Pioneer sale in 2003. According

to court documents, Green cashed checks rather than depositing the funds, so his bank account did not reflect the income. A bank employee and one of Green’s co-workers confirmed Green’s intent to conceal the income to evade payment of federal taxes. Green was sentenced to five months incarceration and five months community confinement and was ordered to pay $75,000 in restitution for filing false tax returns, along with a $2,000 fine. He is ordered to surrender on or before June 4.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Tough economy and lost lease force Clayton Books to close LOU FANCHER Clayton Pioneer

Unless a fairy godmother swoops in on a rescue mission, the family-run Clayton Books will close its doors on May 22. Christy and Joel Harris have operated the independent bookstore since 2007, taking over the Bonanza Books location in the Clayton Station Shopping Center. The bookstore is a community gathering place, the site of more than 200 author events, and a resource for local schools and charities. “Right from the start, we donated books and items to just about every charity that ever asked us,” says Joel. Store book clubs, from American Girl to mysteries, met without charge. “They’re going to try to find another place to meet,” Joel says, “but some may die out because there’s no open space.” Beyond the confines of its four walls, Clayton Books provided free author visits to K-8 schools in Clayton, Concord, Walnut Creek and Pittsburg. Teachers, librarians and local authors had permanent discounts. The owners also contributed boxes of books and related materials to school libraries throughout the area. However, the economy and

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

JOEL AND CHRISTY HARRIS at the opening of their bookstore in Clayton Station in 2007.

publishers’ policies of selling books at steep discounts on Amazon and big box stores left Clayton Books bruised and battered. Negotiations over the lease dealt the final blow to the store’s bottom line. “There are customers saying they’re going to lie down on the ground and weep,” says Joel. Instead, what the store owners need is action. They have to liquidate more than 35,000 books and gift items before May 22. “It’s time for payback,” says Joel, expressing an honest appeal to customers who have benefited from the

store. After the last day of sales, any remaining books and fixtures will be donated to local schools and charities. “Giving to the community, it’s how we started. And that’s how we’ll end,” says Christy. On May 23, Clayton Books will have a wake. Christy and Joel have invited one and all to a cookies and tissues gathering from noon-4 p.m. to honor the employees, customers and the tremendous effort it has taken to be an independent, community-minded bookstore in the 21st century.

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April showers bring May flowers. The fact that rain or showers were reported nearly one out of three days last month should result in a bountiful harvest of spring flowers in the Clayton area this month. Gardeners, however, are not the only beneficiaries of the recent rains. The previous three winters were classified as dry years throughout California, as seasonal rainfall totals were below normal. In addition, the Sierra snowpack had also experienced three below normal years. The lack of mountain runoff resulted in reservoir levels that reached near all-time low levels late last year. Last fall, the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) Website contained the headline “California’s Drought … Preparing for Year Four.”

Fortunately, Mother Nature must have felt pity on our state, and the rains came. Thanks in a large part to a strong El Nino pattern that established in the tropical Pacific, moist air masses carried by jet stream winds frequently traveled across California this winter and spring. This resulted in above average rainfall and mountain snowfall. Locally and throughout the state, measurements taken at the end of April are very encouraging. The rain gauge at Mt. Diablo State Park recorded more than 29 inches of rain this winter, compared to an average value of just more than 21 inches. At the Marsh Creek Fire Station, the 28 inches of rainfall measured this season is more than 9 inches above average. Statewide, the news is equally as good. At the end of April,

WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS northern Sierra precipitation was nearly 105 percent of normal, compared to 88 percent last year. Southern Sierra precipitation was almost 115 percent of normal, compared to 93 percent last year. Reservoir water managers are more interested in the measurement of snow water content than precipitation itself. High snow water content results in enhanced spring and summer runoff in the mountains, allowing these water storage facilities to capture and store more water. The cold nature of the late season storms has boosted the snow water content to a

See Weather, page 9

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May 7, 2010

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REAL ANSWERS How would you suggest I pick a Realtor to sell my home? The last time I sold, I used a referral from a friend and was not happy with the result.

One of the ways I suggest A is to get a referral from a friend who was happy with the Realtor’s service. This should be one of the Realtors whom you interview. Just because they were referred by a friend, though, doesn’t mean you have to hire them if you are not comfortable that they are the right one for the job. You also might interview Realtors with sold signs in your area. With rare exceptions, it is best to use a listing agent who is a local specialist. It is usually suggested that you interview three local agents. But if you find an agent that you believe is more than competent and you feel comfortable, you might want to go with that one. I interviewed several active Realtors about this question and some of them said that they sometimes feel encouraged to price a home too high because the potential seller is going back and forth between Realtors – trying to get them to quote the highest price. They believe that they could do the best job if they could just be 100 percent honest with the seller, without fear that if they tell the truth they won’t get the listing. Beware of Realtors who recommend a high list price just to get the listing. In the real estate business, this is called “buying the listing.” Just because they quoted you a high price doesn’t mean you will get any more than the

market will bear. Ask them for comparables to show how they came up with the price and ask how they are going to market it. Also ask them to show recent sales they represented and how much they were originally listed for and the actual sale prices. Be wary of a Realtor who makes disparaging statements about the competition. Agents who are Realtors (members of the National Association of Realtors) subscribe to a code of ethics that forbids knowingly making misleading statements about fellow Realtors or their business practices. If a Realtor uses this tactic, it could be a red flag that the agent is less than ethical. For best results, list with a Realtor who has extensive experience in your area and who is well-known and respected by other Realtors in your area. How important are credit scores called FICO scores when getting approved for a home loan? What determines these scores?

FICO scores play a larger A role than ever before in determining interest rates and loan eligibility. Scores can range from 300 to 850. They are a statistical calculation based on payment history (35 percent), credit utilization (30 percent), length of history (15 percent), credit type (10 percent) and recent credit checks (10 percent). Items stick around for seven years; bankruptcy for 10. Maxing out a credit card, a 30-day late mortgage payment, debt settlement, a foreclosure (150-point ding) or bankruptcy (150-200 point hit) all negatively impact credit scores.

How a short sale affects one’s credit depends largely on how the lender reports the short sale, so try to negotiate “debt repaid in full.” A credit bureau is always required to report why a score is “not perfect.” Even if borrowers have a fantastic score of 800, the credit bureaus will still list myriad flaws in the report. This is to show why the credit is not perfect, as no credit can be. Borrowers need not panic when they see flaws on their credit report.

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I might sell my home in Q the next year or two. Would any remodeling be prudent? Homeowners are spending A $12 billion more this year in remodeling than last year, according to the National Association of Home Builders. The return on investment, however, has been decreasing. Costs recouped at resale were approximately 64 percent last year, compared to 67 percent in 2008. I don’t recommend any major remodeling as you are not likely to recoup the expense. Homeowners planning to remain in their homes for the long term, however, may want to consider adding energy-efficient windows, roofing and doors as these enhancements recover a large percentage of their outlay. They also reduce energy costs. Send your question to Lynne@LynneFrench.com and look for an answer in a future column. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions, call 672-8787or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

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The Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association opens a new season of the Clayton Certified Farmers Market on Saturday, May 8. The vendors will assemble 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays at Diablo Street between Main and Center through Oct. 30. The market showcases Northern California’s freshest fruits and vegetables at reasonable prices. “We are pleased to continue our well-received presence in the community as a way to help promote buying local and eating healthy,” said John Silveira, director of the market association. The Clayton Pioneer is running a special Mother’s Day coupon that customers can redeem at the market for a free bouquet on May 8. Market patrons can also enter to win a potted plant from the Clayton Valley Garden Club. The contest will start on May 8 and the winner will receive the prize on May 15. Clayton city officials will kick off the new season with a cabbage toss, a new tradition to mark opening day. Kids can join in the fun by making buttons at the Information Booth. “There will be food, fun, live music and other great entertainment offered throughout the season,” says market manager Roxanne Terres. “We’re really excited to kick off another great season.” The Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association is the state’s largest operator of certified farmers markets. The venues offer only California-grown products sold directly to consumers by the farmers that grew and harvested the crops. The markets accept WIC FMNP and EBT coupons.

Page 9

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statewide average of more than 130 percent of normal, compared to less than 70 percent a year ago. Although many reservoirs are not filled due to the lack of rain for three winters, DWR recently announced an increase of its 2010 allocation to 30 percent. While this figure is still low, the estimate last December was for 5 percent delivery. Our April showers ensure

that May flowers will make this a beautiful month in Clayton. Fortunately, the rainfall and mountain snowfall of the past winter will go a long way to relieve the drought conditions our state has endured for the three previous winters.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 7, 2010

Rhine family businesses dominated Clayton commerce in early days

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The Rhines are a true pioneering family of Clayton. Brothers Charles and Jacob were two of the early enterprisers, shaping the business district of Clayton and providing conveniences and entertainment to its people. Abraham Rhine and Hinda Nathansen were married and had three children in Germany: Charles on March 11, 1836; Jacob, March 22, 1844; and Amelia (no date available). Charles set sail for America at age 16. After time in New York and the gold mines of California, Charles opened a general store east of Clayton. In 1859, Charles moved the business into Clayton and partnered with Joel Clayton. The Charles Rhine General Merchandise Store had an inventory of about $20,000. It included fabric, coffee, sugar, salt, tea, potatoes, butter, lobster, suits for $7, lamps, whiskey for $3.50/gallon and more. Charles owned a 900-acre farm and sold most of what he produced in the store. He also lent money at 2.5 percent interest per month as there was no real bank in town. Additionally, he was a postmaster, telegrapher, notary public and civic leader. In 1862, Charles Rhine bought out Joel’s share of the business and remained a merchant and strong business leader in Clayton until selling his business to Hans Rasmussen and retiring. On August 16, 1868, Charles married Cecilia Lobree. She and Charles had eight children: Rachel, Adaline, Pauline, Ester, Abraham, Annie, Elias and Lou. JACOB JOINS HIS BROTHER Jacob left England for America and arrived on the day President Lincoln was assassinated. Jacob came to the West Coast by covered wagon. He worked in Coos Bay, Ore., until an unsuccessful business deal in the 1870s drove him to Clayton. Jacob owned Jake Rhine’s Saloon and Hotel and Rhine Hall. Each year, the hotel had the largest, most beautiful Christmas tree in the lobby. The hall, one of two in town, was well-known for social events. An admission ticket for the Grape Picker’s Ball boasts “Good Music and a Good Time Assured.” Jacob married Dina Ottenberg on Dec. 1, 1874. They had 14 children: Pauline,

Photos courtesy of Clayton Historical Society

THE CHARLES RHINE GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORE was originally located where Skipolini’s Pizza is. Later the store and a house were rebuilt on the site where Cup o’ Jo’s is. The house faced Diablo Street. Other Rhine-owned businesses were a hotel which stood where the Clayton Saloon is now and Rhine Hall which was where the Clayton Community Church parking lot is.

Fanny, Hilda, Abraham, Samuel, Herman, Leon, Nathaniel, Bella, Alexander, Irvin, Milton Henry, Sophia Ruth and Yetta. In the early 1900s, Charles and Jacob moved their families to San Francisco. Jacob partnered with his sons to open the Rhine Optical Co. Amelia married a Mr. Klapper in England. After his death, she married Mr. Barnett and came to the United States and they resided in San Francisco. TOSSING OUT A NAME As with any large family, many interesting stories reflect the spirit of the Rhines’. The most infamous story involving the Rhine family is the coin toss of 1857. Both Charles Rhine and Joel Clayton wanted to name our town. Rather than duel for the name, they flipped a coin and, as you guessed, Joel won. In 2007, Robert Steven Rhine – great grandson of Charles – proposed a new challenge to Clayton. The city decided to honor the Rhines by renaming the city “Rhinesville” during Oktoberfest. Thirty Rhine family members came to celebrate. Robert reenacted the coin toss and, unfortunately, lost again. The Rhine family crest is that of a mermaid in water wearing a crown. One of the Rhine ancestors reportedly

saved a German princess from drowning in the Rhine River. He was given the title of baron and his last name changed from Schwemmer to Rhine (or Rein). Charles’ son, Elias, was a builder in San Francisco and opened the Hotel Mayflower in 1929. The rooms had innovative, disappearing “Rip Van Winkle” beds. The hotel remains a family-owned business. Jacob’s daughter, Hilda, caused a stir when, at 19, she married John Atchinson. A cousin tried to stop the wedding. The police were called, but to no avail. Hilda and John were happily married for more than 50 years. CARRYING ON HISTORY Two streets in Clayton are named after the Rhine clan: Rhine Court and Atchinson Stage Road. The Rhyne (sic) Quicksilver Mine and Rhine Canyon in Mt. Diablo State Park were named after Charles. Robert has dedicated a website to the family, rhinesville.com. He follows in his father, Larry’s, footsteps. Larry was a comedy writer for such well-known sitcoms as “All in the Family,” while Robert publishes a magazine worldwide with his own unique blend of humor. The Jacob Rhine family visited the Clayton Museum and had a reunion at Endeavor Hall

Photo courtesy of Robert Rhine

CHARLES RHINE

on June 7, 1987. Five generations and 120 family members attended. Charles’ and Jacob’s descendants united at the 2007 Oktoberfest and remain in touch. The oldest living relative on Charles’ side is Cecelia Rhine Michaels, 98, and Jean Werner Fisher, 93, on Jacob’s side. The Rhines would love another Rhinesville for a day or as Jacob’s great granddaughter, Diane Rhine Herz, suggested, an “Art and Rhine Festival.” Rhine history courtesy of Robert Steven Rhine and Marsha Klein.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page 11

Summertime film festival seeks student entries on the subject of love Oh, to be young and in love. Or better yet, to make a movie about it and win cash to boot. The Clayton Community Church Film Festival is soliciting short film entries from students 18 years and younger, with the theme of “love.” Pastor Shawn Robinson says the theme ties into a message series called “Summer Love” that parishioners will undertake in June

Church News

and July, based on “The Song of Solomon” from the Old Testament. “It’s not meant to be a church-based video, by any means,” he notes. “But since we’re going to be talking about love, we thought, ‘Why not get people’s ideas about it?’ ” When making films, Robinson asks contestants to consider: “What is love? What does it look like? What statements do I want to make that will influence my viewers and show them the essence of love?”

The entries can act out a story to go with a song or feature dialogue using live or animated actors. Professional actors or filmmakers are not eligible to participate. All films must be 3-5 minutes in length and submitted on two CDs (DVD format), which become the sole property of Clayton Community Church. One winning film will debut each week at the Clayton downtown movie nights at 9 p.m. Fridays, July 9-30. The first place winner receives $500, with $250 for second, $100 for third

Clayton History

Wendy Moore of Alain Pinel Realtors was awarded the highest level of service achievement in the real estate industry, Quality Service Certified® Platinum. The award is in recognition of earning 100% client service satisfaction in both 2009 & 2008!

and $50 for fourth place. The competition is sponsored through a collaborative effort of Clayton Community Church and the Clayton Pioneer. “We’re really excited about this,” Robinson adds. “It’s a fun opportunity for kids to be creative.”

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From the Archives

COMPLETE LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION

Photo courtesy of the Clayton Historical Society

CLAYTON’S MAIN STREET

HOLDS PLACE IN HISTORY The sight of Main Street from Clayton’s Grammar School in 1903 is a little bare compared to the modern structures of present-day Clayton. A few businesses and houses were scattered along Main Street, while other streets had churches, saloons and a slaughterhouse. The rest of the town was a mix of houses and farmland. A view directly from the top of the hill facing where the dirt road entered Oak and High streets showed the tall structure of the grocery store and the livery next to it. Today, Main Street is the home of several popular and important buildings such as Skipolini’s Pizzeria and the Clayton Museum. The street is host to many traditional festivities that families look forward to every year, such as last weekend’s Art and Wine Festival. - Sarah Minton, CVHS senior

Shelter, from page 1 to crowds, Leffler recently gathered her courage around her like a warm blanket and strode purposefully to a center stage podium. There, she explained to a group of 50 or so well-heeled donors from the Lamorinda area her rationale for raising money for Shelter, Inc. Shelter, Inc.’s website describes the non-profit’s mission: “to prevent homelessness and promote self-sufficiency among Contra Costa residents.” That can mean anything from helping a family avoid losing their home by providing them with a single rent payment, to offering shelter and food to a family reduced to living in their car. “We all have things we are called to give,” Leffler said. “For some of us it is time, for some it is talent, for some, treasure.” For Leffler, it is all three. Just a few years ago, Leffler contacted Shelter, Inc. – an organization she’d previously assumed was a building contractor – to donate her extra blankets and bedding. Since then, Leffler has continued to give and give some more. Recently, Leffler and her friend Pam Appel started a group for Shelter, Inc. called Hike for Shelter. There, volunteers age 23-71 were offered a chance to go on a once-in-a-lifetime hiking trip to the Grand Canyon. The group plans to leave for Arizona on May 6 and return on May 9. To go, each hiker was required

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Entry deadline is Friday, June 25. Submit films to CCC Film Judging, 6055 Main St., Clayton, CA 94949. For more information, contact Jennifer Lutz at 673-9060.

CONCORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Sonja Christopher will speak at the church at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 19. Christopher was a cast member on the first “Survivor” television series and is a prominent spokesperson in the fight against breast cancer. All are invited to hear her presentation on her survival journey, along with a lunch following the program. The church is at 1645 West St., Concord. To RSVP for the luncheon, call Helen Johnson at 682-1775 or Sandy Blazer at 686-1440. BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON This month’s talk and evening of fellowship has been moved to Friday, May 14. The subject of the talk is “Service in Haiti after the Disaster.” Speakers Dr. Tina Edraki and Dr. Torsten Jacobsen have already traveled twice to Haiti on medical missions. The program starts at 7:30 p.m. with a period of interfaith devotions at the Toloui residence in Clayton. All are welcome. For more information and directions, call 672-6686.

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to raise at least $4,000 for Shelter, Inc. in contributions. Working together since fall of 2009, her group has gathered more than $166,000. “I can combine my love of nature with that of the mission of the Shelter,” said Leffler. Shelter, Inc. isn’t the first recipient of Leffler’s efforts. Following Hurricane Katrina, she was contacted by a friend who, like her, sold Weekenders brand clothing. “You need to get your butt on a plane – we have some work to do in Mississippi,” Leffler recalled being told. Once there, she saw schoolteachers living in cars and shelters; finding new clothing was the least of their worries. But the teachers were being called back to work in the start of the area’s efforts to rebuild residents’ lives. Leffler and her friend collected wish lists from nearly 800 teachers before heading back home. On the plane home, she had a moment of panic. “Do you realize you and I just promised $400,000 worth of clothes to these women – just you and I?” she asked her friend. Nevertheless, Leffler began raising awareness of the teachers’ plight amongst her clients, and contributions began flowing in. Soon the clothing was delivered. From the experience, Leffler learned that one person can make a difference in the lives of

many thousands of people. More important than raising money immediately, says Leffler, her group is helping spread the word of Shelter, Inc.’s continuing need for help from the private sector to support the rising tide of homeless and nearhomeless people in Contra Costa County. Since 2007, the number of people Shelter, Inc. has helped each year increased by 65 percent, from 3,000 in 2007 to 5,200 in 2009. “You may not think (homelessness) impacts the more upscale communities – but it does,” said Shelter, Inc. president David Gerson. He pointed out that Shelter clients have included postal workers, librarians and a full-time high school teacher. “The people you know might have been clients of ours.” “Even if we had 50 hikers that each asked a hundred people (for donations), that’s 5,000 people that now know we have a homeless problem in Contra Costa County,” said Leffler. “What this has done is we have generated almost 2,000 new donors to Shelter, Inc.” Shelter, Inc.’s executive director Tim O’Keefe is impressed with Leffler’s effectiveness. “A lot of people have a vision of what they want to accomplish. But she has the ability that when she sets that vision out in her mind, it’s like damn the torpedoes, she’s going to go.” Leffler, 61, describes this stage of her life as “rewiring,

not retiring.” An avid photographer, quilter and watercolor artist, Leffler created art that adorns the cover of this year’s Clayton Garden Tour brochure. She recently left her career in direct sales to devote more time to raising funds and awareness for groups like Shelter, Inc. “When you find your voice, you can really make a difference in the world,” she said. For more information, visit shelterincofccc.org.

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Thurs., May 20, 7-8:15 p.m.

walking tour” of Cla “ l a c i yton tor s i Enjoy a “Walking Tour” of the town H of Clayton through an historical slide show with photos dating back to the 1860s. Presented by Dick Ellis, past president, Clayton Historical Society Discover the travels of founder, Joel Clayton, as he ventures from Buxworth, England to California. Refreshments served Public invited

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Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 7, 2010

Clayton Sports Three soccer teams reach Comstock finals JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Three local teams left their mark by reaching the finals of the Comstock Shootout in Carson City, Nev., in April. The Diablo FC 99 team came home with under 10 girls championship medals from the Sierra gold bracket. Mt. Diablo Soccer AYSO Region 223 claimed runner-up medals in two under 12 brackets, by the MDSA Strikers FC boys and MDSA Velocity girls. Coach Stacey O’Callaghan’s Diablo FC 99 team gave up only one goal in four games while scoring 19. “Our defense played really well,” she noted. En route to the finals, Diablo FC defeated PHMSA Pride 5-0, host team Capital Soccer Club Strikers 6-0 and MDSA Stampede 7-0. In the championship match, the local team was tested before defeating PHMSA Barbie Girls 2-1. Diablo FC 99 includes Katie Christman, Marianna Giovannetti, Gabrielle Hair, Janet Lopez, Francesca Monti, Stephanie Neys, Lindsey Osmer, Kylie Schneider, Cassie Silva and Sophie Wheeler. Meanwhile, Velocity got off to a slow start at Comstock with a 6-2 loss to the PHMSA Shockwave. Velocity had goals from Savannah Pomeroy and Lauren Russell. In their second game, Velocity was up against crosstown rival Concord Fusion. The team was able to shut out Fusion 4-0 with dominating defense led by Eryn

Dudley, Briel Araujo and Pomeroy. Velocity got determined work from midfielders Russell and Allyson Bourque. Goals were scored by Alyssa Weed, Natalie Ruzicka and Julia DeJesus. In the Sunday semi-final game against Pleasant Hill Galaxy, the Velocity fell behind 1-0. The defense clamped down and was backed by solid goalkeeping from Madison Pomeroy, Maria Sparvoli and Haley Robertshaw. Madison Pomeroy had to leave the game with an ankle injury, but the team rallied with three unanswered goals from Dudley, Sofia Campos and Ruzicka to win the match 3-1 and move to the finals. The final was a rematch against Shockwave. Each team created multiple opportunities that were shut down by excellent defense. Shockwave was able to find the back of the net for a lone goal in the first half. Despite lots of offensive pressure, Velocity could not produce a tying goal and had to settle for second place after a 10 loss. “This team really came together this weekend and their confidence was soaring,” said Velocity coach Chris Ruzicka. “I was proud of this team and their resilience this weekend.” The MDSA U12 boys Strikers FC were coming off a championship at the AYSO Area 2C/D Select tournament in Davis. Strikers FC had defeated clubmates MDSA United in wet, windy conditions of the Area Select finals before they

Photo courtesy of Mt. Diablo Soccer

MDSA VELOCITY TOOK SECOND PLACE AT THE ANNUAL COMSTOCK SHOOTOUT. The team includes, front row from left, Sofia Campos, Allyson Bourque, Eryn Dudley, Natalie Ruzicka, Briel Araujo, Alyssa Weed; back row, coach Aaron Pomeroy, Maria Sparvoli, Julia DeJesus, Lauren Russell, Haley Robertshaw, Savannah Pomeroy and coach Chris Ruzicka.

headed to Nevada for one of the area’s largest youth soccer tournaments. In the first game, MDSA defeated Bishop 3-2 as Diego Cordova scored twice and Mike Hathaway once. Key defenders as Bishop pushed for the tying goal were Bryden Connel, Evan Lonestar, Dylan Gois, Pablo Hernandez, Cade Hermeston and Scott Lorentzen. The next game was a lopsided 9-1 decision over Heritage

Blackhawks. Taylor Heuerman ended up with a hat trick, scoring three goals in the second quarter. Ryan Anchondo scored twice, and Pablo Hernandez also tallied in the win. To reach the finals, Strikers FC needed a tie or win against PHMSA Outlaws. Heuerman got the tying goal before halftime after PHMSA took an early lead. Goalkeeper Mike Hathaway denied all the Outlaw shot attempts as they pressed

for the winning goal and the game ended 1-1. The finals pitted the local team against Davis Dynamite, whom the Strikers eliminated 52 in the semi-finals of the Select tournament. Strikers goalkeepers Zachary Lamb and Bryden Connel worked hard to contain Davis’ attacking offense, but Dynamite scored a goal in each half for a 2-0 victory. “We had a good number of scoring opportunities but could

not find the back of the net,” coach Jorge Cordova said. “It was indeed an exciting game, and our boys played hard and never gave up.” Brothers Mike and Ryan Hathaway of Strikers FC met in the finals of U12 boys Keeper Wars at Comstock, with Mike taking the title. “Our boys had a great time in Comstock as they got to play two teams for the first time,” noted coach Dave Lonestar.

Volleyball rookies help Eagles contend for NCS title JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Photo by Mike Dunn/Clayton Pioneer

THE CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY VOLLEYBALL TEAM has its eyes on a NCS title. The Eagles are, from left, Joey Detmer, Pierce Bartley, Austin Woods, Mitchell D’Angina, Nick Sharapata, Aaron Blatter, Clark Stratford, Tom Sprague and Taylor Bredell.

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In this time when youngsters often concentrate exclusively on one sport from an early age, it’s refreshing that the Clayton Valley High School varsity volleyball team has four seniors brand new to volleyball this year. And, they have helped the Eagles contend for league and North Coast Section honors. “We started off the season with four new players who had never played the sport before and got them up to varsity speed,” says coach Stephen Coddington. “One thing that helped the four players is that they are naturally athletic.” Tom Sprague, Pierce Bartley, Nick Sharapata and Joey Detmer made the 10-man varsity squad and have helped the Eagles to a

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league champ. Northgate has an incredible 34-1 record a year ago, including the NCS championship match victory over Las Lomas – which had eliminated Clayton Valley in a tough four-set match to open NCS play. Coddington thinks his squad is poised to go much further in section playoffs this year. “I believe if this team puts it together for this final stretch that we can play for an NCS championship,” he says. “We took a step forward in our game against College Park, with the team captains Mitchell and Aaron stepping up to lead the team to a hard-fought win.” Three experienced juniors, libero Clark Stratford, outside hitter Austin Woods and defensive specialist Bryan Crase, complete the 10-man varsity squad of upper classmen.

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top two position in the Diablo Valley Athletic League. This is not to say the squad doesn’t have experienced volleyball players. Co-captains setter Aaron Blatter and outside hitter Mitchell D’Angina were instrumental in the thrilling victory over College Park that ended 1614 in the fifth set. The 6-6 junior D’Angina had 22 kills and four blocks against the Falcons, while senior Blatter registered 40 assists and six kills. Middle blocker Detmer had 14 kills and five blocks, and senior opposite hitter Taylor Bredell had seven kills. Standing 8-1 in the DVAL entering this week, the Eagles are a victory over defending league and NCS champion Northgate away from claiming a co-league championship. The teams met Tuesday to determine the likely

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Sports

Page 13 Help the Pioneer cover the local sports scene. Send competition results, story ideas, announcements, sports shorts, etc. to sports@claytonpioneer.com. Please attach a high-resolution photo whenever available.

Four years of dedication nets Eagles DVAL boys tennis title

Sports Shorts FALL

Finishing off their league season between rainstorms, the Clayton Valley High School boys tennis team claimed a share of the Diablo Valley Athletic League championship and earned the top league ranking in a tiebreaker with Northgate. This matched the goal senior co-captain Marc Albano set when he said, “Our expectations for the team are simple: to win the DVAL championship.” The Eagles needed to win a pair of postponed matches last week in order to ensure the title, and they eventually completed victories over Concord and College Park. The team’s success can be traced from coach Rick Ortega to three dedicated seniors, Renato Castro, Oscar Barbosa and Albano, who have been with the Eagles the same amount of time as Ortega. “We have dedicated much of the past three plus years to bettering ourselves as individuals and as a team,” Albano says. “Since our first year, we have all played year-round and helped form the foundation of our team.” Ortega is in his fourth year with Clayton Valley. “To say he is the main reason for our success would be an understatement,” Albano explains. “Coach Ortega has devoted countless hours over this time to make us the championship contender we are today. “The year before he and coach Suzanne Beck came to

LEAGUE

AYSO

REGISTRATION

Mt. Diablo Soccer AYSO Region 223 registration for its 30th anniversary fall season continues noon-3 p.m. Saturday, May 8, at Mountain View Elementary School in Concord. Everyone plays on the teams for girls and boys age 5-18. Fall season begins with practice in August, followed by games through the season-ending Mt. Diablo World Cup in October for Under 10, U12 and U14 age groups. For more information, visit mdsoccer.org.

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

LOCAL

SOCCER TEAMS IN

CONCORD CUP XVII

The local soccer community will be represented by 14 teams at Concord Cup XVII on May 15-16. The tournament has a record 138 teams coming from Idaho, Nevada and throughout Northern California. Mt. Diablo Soccer AYSO Region 223 has a dozen teams taking part, while the competitive Diablo Futbol Club has a pair of teams entered. For a schedule and results, visit concordcup.com.

EAGLES

Photo by Mike Dunn/Clayton Pioneer

FOUR YEARS OF DEDICATION HAVE PAID OFF FOR THIS TRIO OF CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS as the Eagles boys tennis team won the DVAL championship last week. From left, Renato Castro, Marc Albano and Oscar Barbosa have spent the past four years with coach Rick Ortega helping establishing the standards for a championship team. The year before these seniors and Ortega started at Clayton Valley, boys tennis was 1-15 and this year they were 18-3-1

the Clayton Valley boys tennis program, the boys team was 115. In his first year, we went 511,” he adds. “In his second year, we were second in our league with an 11-5 record. Last year, we regressed slightly in a new league (DVAL) but still placed third.” The team includes many players from Clayton – Albano, Jonathan Kim, Chase Johnson, Ricky Ahlgren, Chris Gasparro and Mike Jayko. One of the main sources of the Eagles strength is that they

have a competitive lineup from players 1-10. Returning seniors are Castro (No. 4 singles), Barbosa (2 doubles), Carlos Via (3 doubles), Gasparro (1 doubles), Albano (3 singles) and Jayko (2 doubles). Underclassmen who also play tennis year-round and are making their mark for the champs are junior co-captain Ahlgren (1 doubles), junior Johnson (2 singles) and sophomore Kim (1 singles). Kim might be the youngest varsity member but the Clayton resi-

dent, nicknamed JK, is undefeated on the season and a strong contender to advance to the North Coast Section singles tournament this weekend. Two other sophomores, Ryan Dugan and Zach Shaw, are “good signs for the future of CVHS tennis,” according to Albano. The Eagles split the season series against Northgate, defeating the Broncos 7-0 at home before losing a 4-3 decision in Walnut Creek. The team was 71 in DVAL and 18-3-1 overall.

SUMMER

BASEBALL ACADEMY

Defending North Coast Section champion Clayton Valley High Eagles coaches and players will present the annual Summer Baseball Camp June 15-July 1 at the Concord school. The program is for boys and girls 7-15, from beginners to advanced players. Current college players and student coaches from Clayton Valley provide positive role models and give hands-on instruction. For more information, call 682-7474 ext. 3115 or visit eaglebaseballacademy.com.

CLAYTON VALLEY YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP The 10th annual Football Camp runs 9 a.m.-2 p.m. June 2125 at Gonsalves Stadium on the CVHS campus. It is for boys entering fifth-ninth grades. Head football coach Herc Pardi and his staff provide fundamental instruction and competition. There is a trainer on site. Each participant gets a camp shirt and a written evaluation. Cost is $125 plus a refundable $75 equipment fee. For more information, call 682-7474 ext. 3115, press 5, or pick up a brochure at the CVHS front office. Deadline to apply is June 9.

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SHORTSTOP CODY STEPHENS is the infield mainstay of the Clayton Valley High School baseball team. The three-year starter and returning All-DVAL player has helped the Eagles to the No. 1 ranking in the East Bay and a top 10 rating in the state. The defending DVAL and North Coast Section champs are gearing up for another run at the playoffs as they hold a two-game lead in league play. Stephens is a Division 1 college prospect. The CVHS coaching staff says his work ethic is an example for the entire squad.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 7, 2010

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. MAY 10 FOR THE MAY 21 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

CLAYTON EVENTS May 8, 22 Concerts in the Grove May 8: AJA VU, playing the music of Steely Dan, Sly, the Doobie Brothers and other ’70s groups. May 22: Mamaluke, a classic rock dance band. 6 p.m., Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Ajavu.com or mamaluke.com. May 12-22 “Back to the Eighties” A nostalgic musical from Drama Mama Productions students at Diablo View Middle School. 6:30 p.m. May 12, 13, 14 and 20. 3:30 and 7 p.m. May 22. DVMS multi-use room, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. Contact Micki at 787-3183. May 31 Memorial Day Program Hosted by VFW Post 1525. 10 a.m.-noon, downtown Clayton flagpole. Contact Ming at 672-4911 or Pete at 682-6533.

ENTERTAINMENT May 7-16 “Fabulous Follies” The Vagabond Players mark their fifth anniversary. $10-$20. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. 757-9500 or vagabondplayersinc.com. May 8-9 “Music that Dances” The Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra features the premiere of a work by Bay Area composer and cellist Gianna Abondolo. 7:30 p.m. May 8, Los Medanos College Recital Hall, Pittsburg. $5-$10. 2 p.m. May 9, Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek. $15-$18. 943SHOW or lesherartscenter.org. May 14 Second Friday Concert Series The final concert of the season features the Mt. Diablo String Band.

FUNDRAISERS Through May 15 Mt. Diablo Music Education Foundation $10 and $20 raffle tickets offer chances to win Disney vacations. Winners announced at a Musical Festival 2 p.m. May 15 at the Sleep Train Pavilion. Advance concert tickets are $10 for the first ticket and $5 for other tickets on the same order. At the event, $6 for students and $12 for adults. mdmusicfoundation.org. May 15 Clayton Valley Garden Club Plant Sale One-gallon plants are $4. Buy five and get one free. 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Endeavor Hall parking lot, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Contact Neal at 672-2624. May 21-23 Clayton Valley High School Music Boosters Jamba Juice in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center will donate 20 percent of purchases May 21-23. Print flier at claytonbands.org. Instrumental music students will host a carwash 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 22, Mountain Mike’s, 5358 Clayton Road, Concord. $10. Contact Linda at lcfm@sbcglobal.net.

AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Most programs are free. 673-0659 or claytonlibrary.org. May 10 Storytime and Crafts In honor of Children’s Book Week. For children pre-K through first grade. 4 p.m. Register in advance. May 10 Maneuvering in Today’s High-Tech Job Market Sean Hallihan will discuss hot technologies, the job outlook, what skills top employers are seeking, resumes and what to expect during an interview. 7 p.m. RSVP at ccclib.org/programs or contact Doug at 673-0659. May 11 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. 11 a.m. May 11, 18 Paws to Read Children in grades 1-5 can read aloud to a dog to encourage those who have trouble reading. 4-5 p.m. Tuesdays. Registration by a parent is required. May 13 Picture Book Time Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. 11 a.m. May 17 How to Sell, Even if You Don’t Like Sales Randall Shores will explore simple sales techniques that require little or no money to attract new customers. 7-9 p.m. June 5-6 Summer Reading Festival The county library kicks off Summer Reading with free events around the county. Captain Jack Spareribs will offer pirate humor, juggling and a talking monkey, 4 p.m. June 5, Clayton Library. Writer Dave Eggers will appear 1 p.m. June 6, Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW or lesherartscenter.org. For more on Summer Reading, visit guides.ccclib.org/srf. June 16 Personal Finances 101 David Green, president and CEO of the Contra Costa Federal Credit Union, presents experts who will introduce tools to help put your finances in order. 7 p.m. June 26 Prenatal Yoga Candice Garrett talks about yoga, pregnancy, birth and her book,

7:30 p.m., Walnut Avenue United Methodist Church, 260 Walnut Ave., Walnut Creek. $5-$10 or $25 per family. Free childcare. 2ndfridayconcertseries@walnutavenueumc.org.

Kenn Adams

May 16, 23 Kenn Adams’ Adventure Theater An innovative theatrical experience for kids and teens where the audience helps create the show. 1 and 4 p.m., Under the Sun Studios, 2956 Treat Blvd., Suite B, Concord. $12. kennadamsadventuretheater.com or 408-8540.

May 20-June 26 “The Noel Coward Celebration” The Bay Area premiere of an evening of song and sparkling repartee. Center REPertory Company, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $18-$45. CenterREP.org or 943-7469. Through May 23 “Betty’s Summer Vacation” A serio-comedy collaboration of Diablo Valley College students and faculty. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Sundays, 321 Golf Club Rd, Pleasant Hill. $10- $17. No one under 17 admitted without consent. 687-4445. May 21 Diablo Valley Masterworks Chorale and Orchestra Featuring Gabriel Faure's “Requiem” and solos from Judy Wing Ryken and Scot Evans. 8 p.m., Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Dr., Lafayette. $20, or $25 at the door. 687-4445. May 21, 23, 26 Tapestry The Bay Area’s only vocal and handbell ensemble, presents “Shall We Dance?” 8 p.m. May 21, St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, 5562

“Prenatal Yoga: Finding Movement in Fullness.” 2 p.m. RSVP for a 2:30 p.m. demonstration on breath awareness and yoga. Bring your own mat. alturl.com/mdw2 or ccclib.org/programs/index.html.

MEETINGS May 11, 25 Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. May 11, 25 Mt. Diablo Unified School District 7:30 p.m., 1936 Carlotta Dr., Concord. mdusd.org. May 18 Clayton City Council 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

CLUBS

Tapestry Clayton Road, Concord. 4 p.m. May 23, Walnut Creek United Methodist Church, 1543 Sunnyvale Ave. 7:30 p.m. May 26, Asbury United Methodist Church, 4743 East Ave., Livermore. Free-will donations for FESCO and the Food Pantry. Contact Cindy at 672-7751. May 23 Diablo Women’s Chorale Spring Concert Featuring Pergolesi, Mendelssohn and Gershwin. 3 p.m., Trinity Lutheran Church, 2317 Buena Vista Ave., Walnut Creek. $10-$12. Reception follows concert. Proceeds benefit the Mt. Diablo Music Education Foundation. diablowomenschorale.org. Through June 6 “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” Willows Theatre Company presents the award-winning musical featuring the “Peanuts” gang. Willows Cabaret, 636 Ward St, Martinez. $22-$32. 798-1300 or willowstheatre.org. Through Sept. 16 Music and Market Series Concerts at noon Tuesdays through June 29, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays July 6-Aug. 3 and 6:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sept. 16, Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Also, Elvis tribute 2 p.m. Mother’s Day, May 9, and Motown music Father’s Day, June 20. ci.concord.ca.us or 671-3464.

Knights Of Columbus, Concord Council 6038 Meets 7:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month, except holidays, Cauchi Hall, St. Agnes Catholic Church, 3966 Chestnut St, Concord. Contact George at 685-9547 or visit kofc6038.org. Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Includes breakfast and a speaker. Contact Chuck at 689-7640 or claytonvalleyrotary.org. Scrabble Club Meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. All ages and skill levels welcome. $3 fee. Call Mike at 639-1987 or scrabble-assoc.com. Sons In Retirement (SIRs) Meets 11:15 a.m. the first Thursday of the month, Crown Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Dr., Concord. The chapter no longer meets at Oakhurst Country Club. 429-3777.

Clayton Business and Community Association Meets 6:30 p.m. the last Thursday of the month, except holidays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Call Sue at 672-2272.

Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista Meets 12:15 p.m. the first, second and third Wednesdays of the month, September-June, Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Clayton resident Sue Manning is president. 672-2727.

Clayton Valley Garden Club Meets 7 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month, Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. On May 12, Prodromos Stephanos will speak about bees and how we benefit from them. Contact Nancy at 673-3522 or claytonvalleygardenclub.org.

Widows/Widowers Meets for dinner, brunch, theater, etc. This is not a dating service nor is it a greiving class - just a way to meet other people. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or lori@lorihagge.com.

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. for coffee, 10 a.m. meetings, second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1090 Alberta Way, Concord. Call Joan at 672-2471. Clutch Busters Square Dance Club Meets 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Mt. Diablo Women’s Club, 1700 Farm Bureau Road, Concord. Contact Dorothy at 754-8117. Concord Stompers Square Dance Club Meets 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Mt. Diablo Women’s Club, 1700 Farm Bureau Road, Concord. Call Jennie at 672-9676 or angelfire.com/id/stompers. Contra Costa Chess Club Meets 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck’s, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. Contact Mike at 639-1987 or uschess.org. Contra Costa Mineral and Gem Society Meets 7:30 p.m. second Monday of the month, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. 779-0698 or ccmgs.org. Creekside Artists Guild Meets 7-8:30 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month, Clayton Library Story Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. All artforms and both emerging and experienced artists welcome. Contact Arlene at 673-9777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com. Creeksideartists.org. Diablo Valley Democratic Club Meets 7-9 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road., Walnut Creek. 946-0469 or dvdems.org. Diablo Valley Macintosh Users Group Meets 6:30-9 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. Bancroft Elementary School, 2700 Parish Dr., Walnut Creek. 689-1155 or dvmug.org. East Bay Prospectors Club Meets 7 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month, Gold Pan California, 1021 Detroit Ave., Unit D, Concord. Clayton resident Doug Junghans is president. eastbaygpaa.webs.com or 672-1863.

Don't be caught without your Almanac Pick up your FREE copy at one of these local businesses: Bay Area Realty Beautique Bella Mia Spa Canesa's Brooklyn Deli Cat Hospital of Clayton CD Federal Credit Union Cegielski Jewelers Clayton Bicycles Clayton Books Clayton Community Church Clayton Dental Office on Main St. Clayton Furniture Clayton Valley Medical Group Clayton Valley Presbyterian Computers USA Concord Locksmith Concord Optometry CVS Pharmacy Diamond Terrace Dryclean USA Ed's Mudville Grill

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or at the Clayton Pioneer, 6200 H Center St, Clayton.

May 7, 2010

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

MARYBETH RYMER,

PAWS

AND

DVM

CLAWS

Patients often ask if anesthesia is safe for pets. While anesthesia has its risks, veterinary medicine has come a long way in raising the standards of care during anesthetic procedures. Clients are often amazed at the sophistication of anesthetic agents, pain medications and monitoring used now by veterinarians. Proper sedation or anesthesia allows the veterinarian to perform surgery, dentistry, X-rays or any uncomfortable procedure without pain or stress to their patients. Struggling to restrain a dog or cat for a painful procedure creates fear and high levels of anxiety. This could escalate to biting or scratching and harm to the veterinary staff. Also, the pet may develop aversion to future veterinary visits. Safe anesthesia starts with a thorough physical exam. First a TPR will be taken, which includes temperature, pulse (or heart rate) and respiratory rate. Your pet is examined for

Proper procedures keep pets safe during anesthesia

Extraordinary Care for your Pet

unhealthy weight loss or gain. The chest is assaulted for heart murmurs and arrthymias as well as abnormal lung sounds. The body is palpated for masses, large lymph nodes and any joint pain or abnormal anatomy. Mucous membranes are assessed for proper pink color, tackiness (an indication of dehydration) and capillary refill time (to assess tissue perfusion). The eyes and ears also are examined. Blood work is essential for assessing internal metabolic functions. The veterinarian will recommend a blood panel appropriate for your pet’s age and level of health. These panels range from a small screening panel consisting of renal and liver values, blood glucose and red blood cell levels to senior panels with up to 30 blood chemistries, complete blood cell count, thyroid levels and urinalysis. Other lab tests may be recommended depending on your pet’s health condition. Full body X-rays and ultrasounds may be given to better evaluate heart, lung and organ disease. These tests screen for cancer in senior pets even when they appear healthy. If lung masses are present, there is an additional risk of res-

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piratory problems under anesthesia. Once there are chest tumors, life expectancy is short making an expensive and painful procedure unnecessary for your pet. After review of all the diagnostic tests, a master problem list is generated. Then an anesthetic risk level is assigned to help the veterinarian decide the appropriate anesthetic agents. If your pet has liver disease, medications that are metabolized through the liver will be avoided. If not, the anesthetic will take longer to be excreted by a diseased liver and the patient will sleep longer. Full anesthesia takes three steps. First, a pre-anesthetic injection is given either subcutaneously or intra-muscularly. This injection is a cocktail consisting of a sedative, an opiate pain medication and often an antiarhythmic drug. The second step is placement of the IV catheter and induction. Induction agents are given intravenously to induce anesthesia. Once the patient is relaxed, an endotracheal tube is placed into the trachea and attached to a gas anesthetic machine, which also administers oxygen. This third level of anesthesia achieves

Dizzy and Rain are ARF’s Adoption Stars

surgical level of pain control. During anesthesia, it is important to monitor the patient’s vital signs. Vets’ anesthetic monitors now rival those in human medicine. Most veterinarians have monitors to measure blood pressure, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature and electro-cardiogram. With continuous monitoring of these values by a technician dedicated to the anesthesia of the patient, problems are caught early. Adjustments to fluid rate, anesthetic levels or pain medications are made to compensate. Vital signs are supported by IV fluids, which are imperative for safety while under anesthesia. An IV catheter provides an open port to the body in case emergency drugs are needed. But most importantly, administration of fluids at a surgical rate helps maintain blood pressure during the procedure. Body temperature is kept at normal levels with warm water circulating heating pads or warm air blankets. The technical staff is on constant alert for the level of pain experienced by the patient. We have a wide variety of pain medications, including opiates, to keep pets comfortable. It has been proven that controlling a patient’s pain provides for quicker healing. Post-anesthetic recovery includes monitoring temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate as well as pain status. Generally, the goal is to send the pet home walking with appropriate medications to control pain and infection. If an anesthetic procedure has been recommended for your pet, ease your fears by discussing the anesthesia, monitoring and pain control plans before hand with your veterinarian. Marybeth Rymer, DVM, can be reached at Monte Vista Animal Hospital, Concord. 672-1100.

RAIN

DIZZY Dizzy is an intelligent and busy dog. She will thrive in an active home that can provide her with outlets for her energy multiple times a day. Attending a Basic Manners training class would be a great way for her to bond with her new adopters. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60% off one 7-week dog training session. Rain is a super sweet girl that

Page 15

wants to be close to her family. She will make a great cat for any family. The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The primary caretaker must be pres-

ent to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arf.net, or call 925.256.1ARF.

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CVHS students change minds and the world with community service AAMENA ALLOO AND MIRANDA LUTZ Special to the Pioneer

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educate peers, parents and faculty about their topic, demonstrate passion for service, and motivate others to take action on causes ranging from human trafficking to community service advocacy. The Public Service Academy (PSA) is a small learning community within Clayton Valley

High School with a vision to create a warm, welcoming environment for students to grow. Founded on a project-based curriculum, PSA students make a difference in the world while developing the life skills of problem solving, organization and leadership. According to junior Tooba Qadri, “The com-

munity provides so much for us that we should reciprocate. If you want to see change happen, then you should be a part of that change”. At the fair, students displayed their passion and skill toward effecting change on a

See Service, page 17

Motherhood getting short shrift in women’s drive for career success

for Infants, Children & Teenagers Jason M. Renner, D.D.S. Richard C. Rissel, D.M.D

May 7, 2010

We recently discussed our career goals in one of my classes at school. The vocations ranged from psychologists to law enforcement, garnering plenty of admiration and commentary from classmates. However, when one student expressed her desire to be a homemaker, the general response was decidedly unflattering. Many believed her aspiration was ludicrous. Is choosing to rear a child, essentially influencing and mentoring a future member of society, a lowly ambition? I believe society has begun to overlook the role of the mother. In women’s drive to achieve professional and societal equality with men, we have educated an entire generation

with the mentality that a career is necessary for self-actualization. I believe that each individual should have the right to determine whether she wants to pursue a career, motherhood, or both. I know that women have not always had the opportunity to be a part of the workforce; I’m grateful for the doors opened to me as a result of the women’s liberation movement. However, the fact that women now have more work options does not mean it’s necessary to ridicule someone for desiring to be a mother. To demean motherhood in light of a so-called “real career” is contradictory. Caring for small children is a full-time job. Being a good mother necessitates responsibility, sacrifice, a selfless attitude, unconditional love and infinite patience. A good mother receives no vacation, no sick days and she always works overtime. From the act of childbirth to

the care and maintenance of rearing children, a mother’s work may vary, but it doesn’t diminish. I plan to pursue a career in journalism. After I become a mother, I hope to balance motherhood and my career gracefully. In the field I’ve chosen, this is not out of the realm of possibility. Each woman’s situation will be different. Some will have careers with limited flexibility; some will have extenuating circumstances. Each woman needs to choose to pursue what benefits both her and her family. The issue at hand is choice; women can choose whether they want careers, whether they want to be mothers – or whether they want to balance careers and motherhood. We can’t afford to degrade someone for her personal choice, whether that means she rocks a cradle or rocks the workplace. As Mother’s Day approaches, I’ll be grateful as I think

Learning to persevere is a lesson in itself Many times in my life, I’ve experienced situations that tested my patience and I wanted to give up. I was worn out. I was doing my best, but I was concerned my best was not good enough. I was hoping to convince others that quitting was the smartest option. Really, I was just trying to save myself from the humiliation of defeat. However, the idea of perseverance continued to ring in my ears. I realized I couldn’t give up I had to keep trying.

Failing an assignment or losing at sports doesn’t make someone a failure; however, surrendering does. Spending so much time making a fuss or placing the blame on others is a waste of time. Usually, you have to look within to find the answer. The same principles can apply to every aspect of a teenager’s life. Sometimes at school, I forget my homework or just miss an A on that history exam. It is incredibly frustrating, but that does not stop me. I could easily give up. I could take the easy way out, or let one missing assignment lead to three or four. However, perseverance is what keeps me going. At the same time, persevering can seem too difficult or too much to handle. Life’s situations may seem to have no solution, but they almost always do. Two years ago, I broke my elbow and was in need of an operation. The surgery and rehabilitation affected many things in my life. I fell behind at school and had to work hard to get caught up. Most of all, it affected my swim season. I started the year late and almost gave up halfway through. The pain and muscle weakness crippled my swimming ability and I was at the bottom of the rank most of the season. I was not improving because I did not have the strength or arm power. I struggled through every swim practice. I fell behind and wanted to give up. Sometimes, I questioned why to even try – especially after adding a few seconds

ROBBIE PARKER DVMS REPORTER to my stroke times. Even through trial and hardship, I chose not to give up. That was one of the best decisions I ever made. My friends and family would tell me about all the potential I had and that’s when it hit me. I could not surrender just because things became difficult. I could not take the easy way out. I had to do it for my family, my team and, most of all, myself. I know now that giving in is the worst possible solution and that perseverance and determination are the keys to achieving your greatest goals. That year, I ended up winning the highpoint award for my age group and broke pool records at the Crossings Swim Meet. Whether it’s school, sports or anything you endeavor, perseverance takes hard work. It takes time to see the rewards and it might take a couple tries to get it right. Set a goal and find another path and soon you will see yourself succeeding. When difficulties arise in anything you do, perseverance is the willingness to keep on trying. Even when life knocks you down, the trick is persevering and getting right back up. Bottom line, never give up and realize you can do it. Robbie Parker is a seventhgrader at Diablo View. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com

about the sacrifices that my mother has made for me and my sisters. Her choice to stay at home to educate and care for us has undoubtedly influenced our character. With a teenager, pre-teen and 5-year-old in the house, she has done an excellent job in her career as a mother. She makes the infinitely difficult job of rearing three girls appear easy. Cady Lang is a senior at Berean Christian High School. She would like to major in English and eventually pursue a career in writing. Email her at cady_lang@claytonpioneer.com

School News CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL A campus cleanup and beautification day is scheduled 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 15. Grab your gardening gloves and tools and join students, staff and community members to spruce up CVHS. The school district’s budget cuts have caused a significant decrease in services at CVHS, including janitorial, maintenance and landscaping. Meanwhile, with donations from the Parent Faculty Club, the Clayton Business and Community Association and local families, several benches have been purchased for use at the school. District maintenance crews should have them installed before the end of the school year. For more information on the cleanup day, contact Megan Mayhew at omgitsmegan@msn.com, Kelly Clough at kamclough@yahoo.com or Micki McCabe Walls at mcwalls@comcast.net. MT. DIABLO MUSIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION More than 20 schools from around the Mt. Diablo Unified School District will perform in the first All Area Music Festival on Saturday, May 15. The music education foundation is hosting the fundraiser to support music programs in the district. Groups from Clayton Valley High School and Pine Hollow Middle School will be featured. The music festival will begin at 2 p.m. at the Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord. Advance tickets are $10 for the first ticket, and $5 for other tickets on the same order. At the event, tickets will be $6 for students and $12 for adults. Raffle tickets can be purchased for $10 and $20 for chances to win Disney vacations. Winners will be announced at the concert. For more information or tickets, visit mdmusicfoundation.org.

May 7, 2010

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

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Music programs are taking a hit as focus shifts to Advanced Placement classes LOU FANCHER Clayton Pioneer

Clayton residents are learning a harsh lesson when it comes to education: You can’t have it all. Clayton Valley High School has been a mecca for strong academics and vibrant music, drama and athletic programs. However, the music programs are being strangled. Media coverage points to state budget cuts as the cause, but closer scrutiny uncovers an underlying issue. Instead of producing well-rounded students with a broad base, educators, parents and students are racing to compete in a fierce college application process by placing an emphasis on Advanced Placement (A.P.) classes. A 4.0 grade point average is no longer enough. Now, students must have a 4.4, 4.5 or higher. The only way to rack up the percentage points is to eliminate electives – like music and art – and take A.P. classes. “I definitely know it’s a fac-

tor in what classes students sign up for,” says Katelan Bowden, a CVHS senior who recently had to choose choir over A.P. Spanish. Music and A.P. classes fall into the “zero” period, a seventh period before the standard six-period school day starts, so students must choose between classes that earn extra points for college and classes that allow them to explore, create and imagine. “It was the hardest decision to make,” Bowden says, “but I couldn’t imagine my year without music.” Elizabeth Emigh, director of choirs for 12 years at CVHS, reports that her program is suffering. “What we’re seeing is who has signed up,” she says, “and the lists are incredibly small at this point.” To boost enrollment, she and instrumental teacher Mundy Viar must combine classes. “We’re constantly trying to put more numbers in,” Viar says, “but you start getting into things like five guitar players in jazz band and the

TO BOOST ENROLLMENT IN THE MUSIC PROGRAM, CVHS choir teacher Elizabeth Emigh finds it necessary to combine choir classes with instrument classes.

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balance is off.” Both teachers say the push for class size undermines the quality of their elite level classes, the equivalent of advanced academic courses. “It’s another way for students to learn,” Viar says of music education. “It’s one of the few disciplines that connects to other parts of the world: to society, to oneself, to other subjects.” With the school board’s cutting of instrumental music in the fourth grade this year and fifth grade next year, the problem now extends to the elementary grade level. “We’ve had to rewrite the curriculum for middle schools,” Viar notes. “The cuts – they will affect all three levels.” “It has reached the point where we cannot afford to lose anything else on the individual school level,” says Clayton resident Linda Minorsky, whose 10th-grade daughter is in wind ensemble. Emigh and Viar suggest that duplication of effort could be eliminated in programs with multiple sections, saving funds

for smaller programs. Still, public school resources would not be enough to revive the threatened music programs. Minorsky points out that the Clayton Business and Community Association already provides scholarships and sponsors activities to support music students. And the Mt. Diablo Music Education Foundation plans a May 15 fundraiser at the Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord in an attempt to save fifth-grade music. The remaining responsibility falls to the community – to families, taxpayers and political activists. “I would love to see people support our school with their votes, with letters to our elected officials, with donations where possible,” says Minorsky, incoming president of the Music Boosters. “Music education teaches students to be good citizens, to demonstrate leadership and to contribute to the whole,” Emigh states proudly. “Music is something that isn’t on the STAR test,” she adds, “but it leads to greater understanding of the world.”

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Service, from page 16 wide variety of topics covering different global and local areas of service. These topics included community service advocacy, Soles4Souls, Haiti relief, animal cruelty, human trafficking, supporting U.S. troops, high school mentors, Make A Wish, diabetes, clean drinking water in Africa, women’s rights in Afghanistan, and teen pregnancy prevention. One group, in particular, who excelled at reaching out, was Community Service Advocacy. These students focused on the ramifications of one simple question, “What is community service?” After posing this question to a first grade class at Highlands Elementary School, the PSA students discovered that many first graders believed community service was a punishment. However, after helping the class plant a garden to beautify their school while discussing community service, the PSA students posed their question once again, and received drastically altered views. According to freshman Bianca Rubalcava, “The greatest thing about the project was that we changed opinions-we made a difference.” Another group focused on the second largest crime in the world, the horrifying practice of human trafficking. To demonstrate the harsh reality of exploiting people for profit, a visitor to the booth encountered a “victim” badly beaten, handcuffed and gagged with duct tape. While a visitor was looking at this graphic visual, sophomore

Jae Greenwald explained that “5000 people are sold a day for an average of $90 leading to $32 billion a year spent in human trafficking”. To help eradicate this crime, students raised over $655 for the Polaris Project and Threads of Hope. Students visiting another booth were shocked to learn that 1 million girls under the age of 20 become pregnant each year, and four in five pregnant teenagers do not graduate from high school. Although a controversial issue, the group recognized that teenagers struggle with conflicting pressures from society and their peers. Recognizing the need for information, the group distributed a pamphlet entitled “A 101 Ways to say No”. For junior Stephen Cuff, the most enjoyable aspect of the Public Service Academy’s “If I Could Change the World” fair “was seeing how our hard work benefitted our community.” Kelsey Riessen enjoyed “getting to know my classmates and watching everyone’s work come together for a good cause.” Parent Laura Ploetz recognizes that “It is a good learning experience and will hopefully inspire students to continue volunteering in the future. Perhaps, freshmen Jared Deely captured it best when he stated that “The Public Service Academy is more than a group dedicated to service. It is a state of mind, giving us a purpose in the world.” Aamena Alloo and Miranda Lutz are juniors at CVHS.

Photo credit: Aamena Aloo

SENIOR JOHNNY BEKEKIS SHOWS JUNIOR MACKENZIE AYERS pictures drawn by first graders of people completing acts of community service.

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May 7, 2010

Websites investigate urban legends

Mayor, from page 1 Pioneer editor Tamara Steiner attended. The meeting was positive, with valuable input from everyone. The goals of a communitywide character program might include: inspiring individuals, families and organizations to take responsibility for their choices and actions; motivating individuals, families and organizations to make a difference in the world around them; and recognizing individuals, families and organizations for modeling the character expectations. The schools could tailor the program to best meet their needs. The intent is not to add curriculum but to encourage teachers to weave it into their existing lessons. This will require an intentional and proactive shift in focus. We still need to decide the core character traits or expected behaviors, while also coming up with a name. For example, Pleasanton’s Community of Character has adopted the traits of responsibility, compassion, self-discipline, honesty, respect and integrity. A recent staff meeting at DVMS yielded the desired traits of integrity, courtesy, compassion, respect, kindness, accountability and gratitude. DVMS currently calls its program Character in Action. A nationwide program, Character Counts, has adopted “Six Pillars of Character” – trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Think about the expected behaviors or character traits you would like to see in your children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, neighbors, coworkers, teachers or community leaders. By focusing on a core set of behaviors we, as a community, can provide a consistent message by using a common language. Our students will hear and see a consistent message at school, at home and in the community. While Pleasanton was formulating its program, a parent approached a school administrator and expressed her belief that a character development program was a bad idea. She said such a program would put the students at a disadvantage compared to those who were not being held to high ethical standards. I believe this example points out the need for a community approach that will benefit both students and adults. Like Benjamin Franklin, we can make developing good character a lifelong pursuit. Email your suggestions and thoughts to hank_stratford@yahoo.com.

MARK FREEMAN

THE

NET

My inbox is often filled with dire emails. A young girl has gone missing. A new virus threatens my computer. These emails often encourage me to pass on the word to my friends. But before I do, I check Snopes.com. Snopes investigates these Internet urban legends and determines their validity. The Website, run by husband and wife sleuths David and Barbara Mikkelson, has thousands of articles that prove or debunk those emails you get from Aunt Matilda. The Website doesn’t claim to be the ultimate source of information on urban legends, but it might be the most reliable.

Accidents Apr. 20, 1:32 p.m., Clayton Rd. Accident non injury. Apr. 24, Mt. Zion & Pine Hollow Rd. Accident noninjury.

Arrests Apr. 21, 10:37 p.m., Clayton Rd. & Washington Blvd., Driving on a Suspended License, Concord man, 29. Apr. 24, 2:12 p.m., Semillon Cir. Warrant Arrest, Clayton man, 23. Apr. 26, 8:48 p.m., Clayton Rd. & Delaware Dr. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol; Driving on a Suspended License, Oakley

analyzed the hoax and uncovered the same findings. Claim: A devastating new computer virus is circulating across the Web and could burn your hard disc. Snopes’ verdict: False. While there are many viruses out there, Snopes says none of them act like the ones described in the email. One version of this message claims CNN reported that the virus was “the most destructive virus ever,” but Snopes points out the network never made such a claim. “This same basic hoax has been circulating in various languages since at least 2000,” Snopes reports. Claim: A dying child was named an honorary fireman by the Phoenix Fire Department. Snopes’ verdict: True. This story is an example of what Snopes calls “glurge,” or “chicken soup with several cups of sugar mixed in.” The email describes how the child, sick with leukemia, was given an

opportunity to ride alongside some firemen. While he was in the hospital for the final time, several firemen used a ladder to climb to his window to say goodbye. The boy, Bopsy Salazar, was the first to be helped by the Make-A-Wish Foundation; one of his wishes was to be a fireman. Snopes even confirms that the “most fantastic claim in the email” – the firemen climbing through his hospital window – is true. Snopes even tackles old wives’ tales and some classic urban legends. For instance, the Website links to a 15-page article that debunks the theory that the Beatles included references to Paul McCartney’s “death.” Those who enjoy Snopes’ investigative approach should visit TheSmokingGun.com, which posts actual police reports, court documents and other evidence connected to current news stories. This Website’s articles are usually

much longer than those on Snopes. For example, TheSmokingGun includes police reports filed by victims allegedly assaulted by Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. The article has scanned images of the reports and details of the incidents. Note: Some of this content is not appropriate for children. The Internet Age has sometimes been called the “Misinformation Age” because rumors and hoaxes can travel so quickly. But with Websites like Snopes and TheSmokingGun, you can be reassured someone is trying to track down the truth. Mark Freeman is a student at St. Mary’s College in Moraga, studying economics and English. He enjoys creative writing and is a reporter for the school paper. Questions/comments can be sent to mfreeman543@gmail.com.

Helping kids stimulate sensory input When things go wrong with the sensory integration system, it can cause disruption in daily life and interfere with daily functions. This can include behaviors such as excessive seeking or avoiding of certain objects or activities. When our brain is “disorganized,” it can be like a “traffic jam with some bits of sensory information tied up in traffic,” says A. Jean Ayres, author of “Sensory Integration and the Child.” Without clear feedback, a person may have difficulty with automatic movements. As one has to think about each movement, it becomes more difficult and less enjoyable. Excessive seeking or avoiding behaviors in a child may suggest “I need more of this input” or “That input is really unpleas-

KATHY YOUNGSON WE CARE CENTER

PARENTING TODAY ant to me.” Sensory processing disorder manifests differently in everyone. The causes of sensory dysfunction are not clearly understood, but there is a great deal of research being done. Visit spdfoundation.net to find out

more about the Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation in Greenwood, Colo. With decreases in the amount of recess and physical education time in schools and increased time spent with homework and after-school activities, children have fewer opportunities to engage in sensory play activities that can help enrich and organize their brains. However, parents can provide a variety of opportunities for children to engage in sensory play at home. Here are some activities that stimulate sensory input:

Head Movement (vestibular): Swinging, climbing, rolling down a hill or log rolling on the floor, walking on uneven surfaces or on a

line, pretending to be different animals such as hopping like a frog or waddling like a duck. Deep Pressure (proprioception): Body hugs, squishes with pillows, pushing/pulling heavy items in a wagon or cart, popping large bubble wrap by rolling, stomping or jumping on it. Touch (tactile): Finger painting with pudding, playing in the dirt or sand, rolling ropes of play dough and making shapes with them. To make “Cornstarch Goo,” mix 1 cup cornstarch with ½ cup of water. Watch what happens when you squeeze it, then let it go. For variety, mix in a few drops of food coloring. Hand/Eye Coordination: Scooping and pouring water

or sand into a variety of containers, stacking and nesting different objects such as plastic mixing bowls, throwing objects such as balls or stuffed animals into a laundry basket. Practice hand/foot coordination by kicking balls or use a clean, empty can to play Kick the Can on cement. (It makes the best noise there.) The next column will focus on feeding and eating concerns. For comments or questions, contact We Care Services for Children at 671-0777, ext.26. Kathy Youngson is a therapist working in Early Intervention at We Care Center. She is trained in sensory integration theory and techniques, feeding and eating, and in handwriting and hand skills. Email your questions to kyoungson@wecarebmcc.org.

Mac vs. PC – the answer isn’t clear-cut If you’re trying to decide if you should buy a Mac or a PC, the choice is easy. Get a Mac, end of story. Well, perhaps there’s a bit more to it. I hear it all the time: “My PC is slow and full of virus; I think I’ll buy a Mac.” That’s a fair and common statement but one that is likely uninformed. It is true that PCs with the Microsoft Windows XP operat-

Police Log TWO WEEKS ENDING APRIL 29, 2010

“Unlike the plethora of anonymous individuals who create and send the unsigned, unsourced e-mail messages that are forwarded all over the Internet, we show our work,” Snopes says on its FAQ page. Indeed, every Snopes’ article includes their references. Here are some examples of how these Internet detectives sift out the truth: Claim: A 13-year-old girl named Ashley Flores is missing. Snopes’ verdict: False. This message tugs at people’s heartstrings, but it’s a hoax. Snopes says the email lacks “some of the most basic information one would expect to find in a genuine missing child plea” – like where the girl went missing, a physical description and police contact numbers. Even though the email includes a picture of the “missing” girl, it turns out her status was “concocted as a kids’ prank.” The site also quotes newspaper articles that

man, 29. Apr. 29, 12:36 a.m., Clayton Rd. Warrant Arrest; Driving on a Suspended License, Vallejo woman, 27.

Burglaries/Thefts Apr. 20, 11:32 a.m., Peacock Creek Dr. Grand theft. Apr. 22, 10:12 p.m., O’Hara Ct. Stolen vehicle. Apr. 22, 11:12 a.m., Center St. Vehicle burglary. Apr. 25, 10:47 a.m., Joscolo View. Petty theft. Apr. 27, 12:25 p.m., Clayton Rd. Grand theft.

Vandalism Apr. 17, 2:31 p.m., Roundhill Pl. Apr. 25, Yosemite Cir.

12:30

p.m.,

ing systems are plagued by virus and malware attacks. PCs require special software to protect them against such problems. The Mac, for the most part, is not subject to virus attacks. PCs need additional software to accomplish what the Mac does innately. I believe the PC is maligned for two reasons. First, there are many more PCs in this world than Macs, so there are more people seeking help when problems occur. In addition, there are more hackers trying to make a name for themselves hacking Microsoft products. Fame comes from the number of infections one can create. PCs draw a bigger crowd because Windows dominates the market with 85 percent, while Macs have l0 percent. Second, the Windows XP operating system is more than 10 years old. It wasn’t designed to root out the type of malware that exists on the Internet today. Most compare Windows XP to the latest Mac version of Snow Leopard, which is about a year old. That’s not a fair comparison. The good news is PCs now enjoy the security of Windows 7, which I say is a game changer. Windows 7, approaching its first birthday, has a secure system design from the ground up. To compare Mac against Windows 7 is a fair and reason-

able comparison, and I give the edge to the PC. The most compelling reason to own a PC is the everexpanding library of applications available. The Windows operating system (OS) is generally more open and receptive to new applications than the Mac. That means more developers write and release applications (programs) for Windows. Mac applications must withstand a higher level of scrutiny and nothing gets released unless Apple CEO Steve Jobs says it may. The most compelling reason to own a PC is software, lots and lots of software. PCs are less expensive than Macs. If cost is a major purchase consideration, you will spend less for a PC and get more power for your dollars. The Mac will cost more and you get less hardware. In addition to the hardware (the computer itself), Mac software is generally more expensive due to the limitations imposed by Jobs and a smaller market. You should note that Macs break down as frequently as PCs. Repairs are necessary for just about any PC or Mac. For example, the Mac and PC use the same hard drives and those drives break down at the same interval. However, getting a hard drive installed into a Mac simply costs more. Getting Macs

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK repaired can be tough because there are fewer Mac repair shops compared to the shops and stores repairing PCs. If you have trouble locating a Mac repair shop, you could send your Mac to the repair depot. It may be your only alternative, but that’s not all bad because my sources tell me they provide excellent service if your Mac is under warranty. Frequently, Mac techs will replace your computer with a new one rather than have you suffer the rigors of repair. On the other hand, Macs can be flexible, says Andrew Stuart, a repair tech who owns and repairs Macs and PC at ComputersUSA in Clayton. “It (the Mac) has something for everyone, from the novice to the windows administrator to the Unix professional. The ease of use for most casual users is magnificent,” he notes. It seems that out of the

box, you can be productive as a single user. No doubt the Mac is a winner. And special software will allow you to run both Mac and Windows applications. However, in various business environments, the PC is still king and Macs can be unruly. If you’re an existing PC user and have a PC networks, stick with them. Mixing platforms isn’t recommended. In the end, neither platform holds a major superiority edge against the other. It really depends on your application, need and budget. I would not suggest Macs for specialized business applications, system monitoring, power network users or users that can’t afford the luxury. Macs are expensive, even when compared to PCs that need constant antivirus modifications. If you get your email from a Microsoft Exchange server, then stick with Microsoft. If you don’t know what a server is, it may not matter. If you’re looking for an uncomplicated, easy computer and can afford it, go Mac. In any case, you should seek a licensed computer professional for advice on your situation. Will Claney is the CEO of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-6729989.

May 7, 2010

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page 19

Movie Review

‘Dragon’ an exciting adventure for the family Historical merits aside, “How to Train your Dragon” is a funny, thrilling and entertaining romp. The Dreamworks animated adventure, based on the popular children’s book by Cressida Cowell, brings the story of a young Viking named Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III to life. Vikings apparently had accents

ranging from those of suburban American kids to thick Scottish brogues and had to fight off rampaging dragons to survive. The story follows the template of many of today’s kid’s movies: A young, awkward out-

cast finds a way to prove him or herself to parents and friends. Hiccup’s rough and tough Scottish/Viking father, voiced by Gerard Butler, can’t understand his son, whose talents are far more mental than physical.

Concert, from page 1 An unbelievable season finale is promised on Sept. 11 with the Hit Waves, a 12-piece, high-energy dance band that will “take you on a musical journey” from the ’60s to now and “propel you out of your seats.” “Expect big crowds,” Geller said. Last year’s concerts grew 700-2,000 attendees. Blankets and chairs can be set up on the grass after 4 p.m. for the 6 p.m. concerts, keeping The Grove available for recreational use during the day. “Order takeout from downtown food establishments and have an early picnic,” Pierce suggested. “What a nice way to spend a Saturday night, with Mt. Diablo as a backdrop.” Christiane Brinkerhoff describes the beauty of the setting. “You get the alpenglow on the western facing hills when the sun sets,” she said. “It makes living in Clayton more fun.” “You see lots of people you know,” adds Dana Wiggenhauser, whose family attended concerts last year when out walking their dog. “We got a place on the grass even though we got there later,” she added. The 10-concert series is sponsored by the city of Clayton, the Clayton Business and Community Association and Allied Waste Services and only promoted through the Clayton Pioneer and a banner at the Town Center entrance. “Howard Geller is the driving force behind the series,” Pierce said. “He puts in a lot of time and effort out of the goodness of his heart.” Jars passed last year netted $7,000 in donations toward the $25,000 cost. “Folks were very generous,” said Pierce, noting that the city would like the concerts to be self-supporting. Donation jars will be located by the sound engineer booth and each end of the bandstand. “That’s what makes Clayton so great – the way so many people pitch in,” said Pierce. For more information, visit cityofclayton.org, and click on Concerts in The Grove.

Photo courtesy Dreamworks

Young Viking Hiccup learns how to befriend and ultimately ride the dragon he calls “Toothless” in “How to Train your Dragon.”

Book Review

I knew I would love “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” as soon as I cracked open the cover and read: “I wonder how the book got to Guernsey? Perhaps there is some secret sort of homing instinct in books that brings them to their perfect readers.” I have a l w a y s believed that books we love d o n ’ t really belong to us so much as we belong to them. As a picky (sometimes snooty) reader, I don’t usually favor the epistolary form of storytelling – considering it too transparent a device to be convincing. I was pleased to be proven wrong, however, by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. They created an utterly charming and heartbreaking tale using the exchange of letters between characters. Juliet Ashton, our novel’s heroine, is clever, crafty and completely delightful, and her letters won me over in an instant. It is just after “the great war” in London, and writer Juliet

improve

Ashton’s apartment has been bombed out in the air raids. Juliet, famous for her wartime column – Izzy Bickerstaff Goes to War, is looking for a new writing project when she receives a fan letter from Dawsey Adams, a sweet man from the Isle of Guernsey. Though she is wooed by a rich American, kind-hearted Juliet and Dawsey become pen pals and eventually she finds her way there to research the story of a local hero named Elizabeth McKenna. Once there, Juliet falls in love with a little girl orphaned by the war and is changed forever. It’s remarkable how closely Juliet and her company are affected by the war. Juliet’s old friends in London, as well as her new friends in Guernsey, experienced the cruelty of war up close and personally with a sense of duty and responsibility and heart. They suffered war rations; they felt the thunder of bombs falling at night; they did without basics like sugar and cooking oil as acts of patriotism to support the brave soldiers in combat. When Juliet learns of the

surprises added to the well-worn formula that keep the movie from being stale. And the animation is an excellent visual feast, in 3-D or not. Goofy young actor Jay Baruchel, most recently seen in “She’s Out of my League” and “Night at the Museum 2,” does a great job with Hiccup’s reluctant nerd-hero, taking him from clumsy loser to town savior. America Ferrera, as the Viking girl Astrid, portrays the tough warrior and compassionate love interest equally well. The biggest departure from Cowell’s original story is that Hiccup’s heroic acts stay a secret in the book and he never gets the celebration seen in the film. Movie audiences seem to need that big happy ending, but either way, it’s a fun fantasy that kids

DON PEDRO CRUZ

THE

MOVIES

and grownups can enjoy together. Rated PG for some intense action during battles between dragons and Vikings, a couple of scary images and brief mild language.

Don Pedro Cruz is a local freelance writer and graphic designer. Send your comments to dpvc2000@gmail.com

Willows offers free student tickets for ‘Charlie Brown’

‘Guernsey’ an intriguing tale of the human story

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Accident-prone Hiccup is determined to find his place in Viking society, which is measured by how well you can defend the town from dragons that attack in the night and raid their island village. Instead of fighting them with sword or axe, Hiccup invents a dragon-trapping device that allows him to come face to face with a dragon he calls Toothless. Hiccup tames Toothless, learns not to fear the dragons and eventually understands why they attack the village. He comes into conflict with his father, who only wants to slay the beasts. As you might guess, he finally gains his father’s respect when he saves both the village and the dragons from destruction. There are some interesting

CYNTHIA GREGORY

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heartbreak experienced on Guernsey during the war, she takes their torment personally and does what she can to help. Juliet is astonished to learn that the island had suffered in the war in ways that even bombravaged London did not: Guernsey had been occupied by Nazi troops because Hitler considered it to be strategically important, situated between France and England. The residents of Guernsey braved the invasion with British stoicism and formed their own resistance corps that actually kept them alive. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society was invented during the war as a cover for ordinary social activities like eating roast pig, and then it took on a hidden meaning. I dare you not to love this novel. Written from the heart, it’s the story of how and why we care for one another.

The Willows Theatre Company continues its outreach to children by presenting free performances of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” May 17 and 18 at the John Muir Amphitheater in Martinez. The event is open to all schools and students in grades K-8. Tickets are donated by Shell Oil, US Bank and the city of Martinez. The musical presents “an average day in the life” of Charlie Brown and his friends, based on the comic strip

“Peanuts” by Charles M. Schultz. The day also includes a tour of the nearby Willows Theatre scene shop, an opportunity to meet the cast, and free milk and cookies. Show times are 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. For reservations, call 798-1300 or email david@willowstheatre.org. The regularly scheduled run of “Charlie Brown” continues at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez, through June 6. For tickets, call 798-1300 or visit www.willowstheatre.org.

Cynthia Gregory writes book reviews, award-winning short stories and a blog. Visit her at www.twogirlstakeonlove.com or write ceegregory@aol.com

Great opportunity for businesses, clubs, families or individuals. Financial sponsors will have their name on a trail marker sign

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May 7, 2010

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The Diablo Trail Endurance Ride offers 30and 50-mile rides that start and finish at Castle Rock Park in Walnut Creek on June 2526. The course is challenging and includes steep climbs, descents and creek crossings, along with beautiful Mt. Diablo scenery. Participants are welcome to camp both Friday and Saturday nights. The event is sponsored by Save Mount Diablo. Registration for juniors and 30mile riders is $75, with $125 for 50-mile riders. Awards and event T-shirts are included. To register, visit savemountdiablo.org or call 947-3535. Scott Hein, Save Mt. Diablo

I N S P I R E D R E A L E S TAT E

Cheese or not, ricotta serves many purposes

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distinct curds in a soupy base that results in more liquid in the dish. I also think the saltiness of cottage cheese throws off the flavors. Cottage cheese simply won’t make a nice cheesecake or lasagna filling. Just use ricotta. If you like doughnuts, try zeppole, the Italian version, when you’re in the mood for a decadent dessert.

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Lasagna, tortellini, manicotti, cannoli … oh, yum. Those creamy savory Italian delicacies all have something in common: ricotta cheese. Ricotta is indeed Italian in origin. References are found dating back to the early Roman Empire. However, there’s a debate whether it’s originally from Rome or Sicily. The Sicilian connection is a bit more persuasive. Ricotta is technically not a cheese at all but a creamy curd. The term is derived from the Italian word for “twice-cooked” and this is how it is produced. Milk is heated so the solids separate from the whey, a liquid byproduct. The whey is then heated with some acidic liquid like lemon juice, vinegar or even yogurt and then stirred and cooled until curds form. Experts insist the best ricotta is made from sheep’s milk. Think nutty and sweet with a dry texture. Most of us only have access to cow’s milk ricotta, an American variation that’s more moist and bland. If you can’t find whey derived from mozzarella or provolone production (hey, let me know if you do), you can make an acceptable substitute for ricotta with the following recipe: SIMPLE RICOTTA CHEESE 1 gallon whole milk 8 T. fresh lemon juice Salt to taste Note: Be sure you have cheesecloth before starting. Pour the milk into a large pot and heat over medium heat. Stir until it starts to simmer (not boil!) and forms foam on top.

Remove the pan from the heat and add the lemon juice. Stir gently until the curds (bumpy solids) form. When you get 1-2 cups of curds, pour the milk through dampened cheesecloth draped over a strainer. Let the cheese drain for 20 minutes up to an hour at room temperature. The longer it drains, the more firm it will become. Work in salt, ¼ tsp. up to 1 tsp. according to taste. Use the cheese immediately or tightly cover with plastic wrap and use within two days. We tend to use fresh ricotta in recipes. In Italy and in ItalianAmerican neighborhoods, however, you’re likely to encounter it pressed and dried (ricotta salata), baked to a charred crust (ricotta infornata) or smoked (ricotta affumicata). Ricotta salata is growing in popularity in gourmet circles. It has the consistency of a hard cheese and is grated or shaved in dishes. Years ago, Bon Appetit printed a yummy recipe for an arugula salad with ricotta salata. I buy

Garden Tour, from page 1 side yard is anchored by an urn waterfall and engulfed with fragrant lavender. The children of this home spend free time playing on the play structure, planted with a living roof. This is quite an inspirational sight to see. Pete and Sherie Laurence’s garden is an opportunity to get lost in nature. Meandering walkways lead tour-goers to various fountains, sitting areas and secret garden settings. Located under

several mighty oak trees, this garden has many entertainment possibilities – including a putting green, regulation-size horseshoe pit, firepit sitting area, and BBQ island and bar. When you approach the home of Steve and Julie Pierce, you can’t help but notice the detail taken with the paved driveway and staked stone walls. The hardscape is exceptional. Once in the back yard, the monument-

the cheese at Whole Foods and pick up a bag or two of arugula at Trader Joe’s. ARUGULA SALAD WITH FENNEL AND RICOTTA SALATA 1 large shallot, minced 2 T. fresh lemon juice 3 T. extra-virgin olive oil 10 c. loosely packed arugula 1 medium fennel bulb 3 oz. ricotta salata Rinse and dry the arugula. Trim the stem and halve the fennel lengthwise. Remove and discard the core; thinly slice the fennel. Shave the ricotta into long thin slices with a vegetable peeler. Combine lemon juice and shallot in a salad bowl. You can add a pinch or two of dry mustard for a tangy taste. While whisking, slowly drizzle in the oil so you get an even emulsification in which the juice and oil don’t separate. Add the arugula and fennel and toss. Top with the shaved ricotta salata. Some food writers suggest that cottage cheese and ricotta are interchangeable in recipes. I disagree, because cottage cheese has

sized waterfall attracts the eye. Colorful plantings include roses, salvia, heartleaf bergenia and azalea. This garden shares a fence with an historic bonus garden. You are encouraged to pass through the gate and see a bit of Clayton’s rich history. Brian and Kim Wurtz’s Vista Point garden is personal and planted with loving detail. Each plant and tree has been chosen and planted by the Wurtz family. The container plantings that surround the entry area and the poolside patio are filled with colors and textures. Kim has deco-

ZEPPOLE 2 qts. oil for frying 1 c. all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking powder Pinch salt 2 T. sugar 2 eggs beaten 1 c. ricotta cheese ½ tsp. vanilla paste or 1 tsp. vanilla extract ½ c. powdered sugar, for dusting Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep pan to 375. Combine flour, baking powder, salt and sugar in a saucepan. Stir in the eggs, ricotta cheese and vanilla. Heat over low heat until mixture comes together and is sticky. Drop batter by the tablespoon into hot oil. Fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm. By the way, when you eat ricotta, you might help the environment. “Cheese Primer” author Steven Jenkins says that whey is not readily disposable because it fouls up sewers and rivers by increasing the growth of algae. That depletes the oxygen supply in the water and eventually leads to fish kills. Linda Wyner, a local attorney and foodie, owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com

rative garden pieces placed on the fences and walls of the home. Ornamentation is hanging in the trees, and obelisks stand sturdy for the vines to travel. Take the steps to the gazebo atop the back hill for a stunning view of Clayton and Concord. Tickets are available on tour days at the downtown Clayton Museum. Tickets are $30, with proceeds going directly to the historical society. For more information, call 6720240 or visit claytonhistory.org.

May 7, 2010

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Honey bees swarm Pardi Lane home NICCI SHIPSTEAD Clayton Pioneer

Brent Wakefield was gardening on Saturday, April 24, when a veritable storm of bees circled the court at his Pardi Lane home in Clayton. They took refuge in an historic oak tree in his front yard. Jeanine Wakefield called Ygnacio Bees’ Jarl de Boer to assist with the almost foot-deep cluster of about 20,000 bees. “It literally looked like the Winnie the Pooh movie cloud of bees,” Jeanine said. “I was not brave enough to get a picture of them swarming. We have children, so we decided to call a beekeeper.” The Mt. Diablo Beekeepers Association Website maintains a “swarm list” of volunteers available for swarm removal. The site says: “Relax! When they’re swarming, bees are probably the most docile they will ever be. Before they leave the hive, they fill up on honey to keep themselves going until they find a new home. Fat and happy honeybees, with no home to protect, are less likely to sting.” MDBA advises asking: “Is the swarm yours to give away? Occasionally, there is a beekeeping neighbor who wants the swarm but is not aware that it has issued. Asking this question

may avoid a legal problem or moral dilemma.” De Boer, a private beekeeper and member of MDBA, ascertains that the Pardi Lane bees

are wild since the queen and half her hive swarm when, as a collective, they deem themselves overcrowded and set out to expand their territory. Issuing

USING A MILD SUCTION HOSE, JARL DE BOER PREPARES TO REMOVE the swarm of an estimated 20,000 bees from an historic oak tree on Pardi Lane as homeowner Brent Wakefield looks on.

Club News CLAYTON VALLEY GARDEN CLUB The club is holding a fundraising Plant Sale 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 15, in the Endeavor Hall parking lot, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Vegetables, colorful plants in pots and one-gallon plants will be for sale. Through last year’s fundraising, the club donated soil, plants and labor to the Diablo View Middle School gardens – resulting in wonderful crops this year. Teacher Kim Lewis reports that her classes have been making won-

A tour guide from Filoli Mansion and Gardens shows Clayton Valley Garden Club members a 14th century fountain. Standing to the right of the guide are Tina Frost, Bob Frost, Tony Eistetter and JoDell Durrett.

derful dishes, and the students have been able to take home some of their crop. The school has cleared out the winter garden and is prepared for summer vegetables. The elevated bed for wheelchair access has worked very well and currently has herbs growing in it. The Clayton Valley Garden Club has been active this spring with civic beautification projects, such as helping with the Clayton Museum garden, maintaining flower planters on Main Street, preparing the Clayton library beds for replanting and helping clear the Diamond Terrace bed for planting vegetables. Recent field trips include the Filoli Mansion and Gardens in Woodside, a wildflower hike on Mt. Diablo and a visit to Annie’s Annuals. The group’s next meeting is 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 12, at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. The presentation will be about bees. For more about the club, visit claytonvalleygardenclub.org. For more on the plant sale, call Neal at 6722624. MT. DIABLO ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY The group will host a family astronomy program about telescopes at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 15, in the lower summit parking lot of Mt. Diablo. Bring warm clothes and binoculars. If you bring a flashlight, cover it with red plastic. The event is weather-dependent. Although there is a park entrance fee, the program is free. For more information, visit mdas.net.

from within 500 feet, the hive is almost certainly wild since there are no beekeepers in that area off Pine Hollow. When de Boer arrived at the Wakefield home, he found his ladder was too short to reach the 30-foot tall branch where the swarm bunched, forming a protective layer around the queen while scouts searched out a new hive location. De Boer rented a taller ladder, and with the Wakefields’ assistance, collected most of the bees for his own hives using a low-suction vacuum. De Boer maintains six hives on his one-acre Walnut Creek property. “It’s enough to keep my trees pollinated,” he said, “and I sell enough honey that the bees pay for themselves.” Hive material costs $500-$1,000 maintenance each year. “We bought some of his honey,” Jeanine said. “Local honey is a good natural remedy for allergy relief.” Contact Ygnacio Bees at 9344248. The Mt. Diablo Beekeepers Association meets7:30 p.m. on the second Thursdays (except November and December) at Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks, Walnut Creek. On May 13, Robbin Thorp presents “Native Bees: Their Diversity and Lifestyles.” For details, visit diablobees.org.

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May 7, 2010

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