JAN 13 Clayton Pioneer 2012 by Pioneer Publishers

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

January 13, 2012

925.672.0500

Death of RDAs deals heavy blow to city PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

For Clayton city officials, it’s almost as if the new year is beginning with a eulogy for a local treasure, a loss of what some might call the heart of the city. The victim

isn’t a person, however, but a decades-long state-funded agency that helped develop the city’s infrastructure and enhanced community pride. Last month, the state Supreme Court ruled that California had the right to strip local municipali-

ties of their redevelopment agencies and their accompanying funds, and Clayton isn’t the only community reeling. For more than half a century, redevelopment agencies throughout the state have been used to fight blight and fund improve-

ments for cities. Clayton’s RDA was formed in 1987. It’s been a year-long battle up in Sacramento since Gov. Brown announced in his 2011 budget that he was dismantling RDAs. After foes took the matter to the state high court, that body ruled that

the Legislature had the authority to raid redevelopment funding to bolster the state’s budget. Brown and his advisors claim that the money could be better used in the state coffers, helping to fund education and other hard-hit budget items.

Clayton is sweet on candy exhibit

City officials, however, tell a far different story. “It’s the death of a good thing,” said Clayton Mayor Howard Geller. “Not only do redevelopment funds help cities

See RDAs, pg 6

Charter School petition headed for approval by County Board DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

HOWARD GELLER

MAYOR’S CORNER

Clayton did the right things in 2011 Looking back at 2011, Clayton fared pretty well. While other cities struggled financially, we began with a balanced budget and ended the year with a small surplus, some of which was added to our reserves. Once again, thank you to prior councils and city managers for the insight and integrity to “Do The Right Thing.” Here are a few highlights of Clayton’s accomplishments in 2011: Clayton was fortunate to see the completion of eight Eagle Scout community projects. We hired new attorneys, Best, Best & Krueger, to represent our city. We completed the Clayton Fountain landscape renovation. We hosted the Mayor’s Healthy Cook-off Challenge and produced 10 well-attended Concerts in The Grove Park. Our annual 4th of July parade was as popular as ever and we

See Mayor, page 14

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

THE CURRENT HISTORY OF CANDY EXHIBIT AT THE CLAYTON MUSEUM is a real kid-magnet, proving that museums aren’t just stodgy old places filled with stuff that looks like their grandparents’ garages. Sarah Barker, 9, granddaughter of museum docent Marj Ditzel, checks out the M&M artifacts and huge collection of Pez dispensers. The exhibit will be up through May. DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

Does your chewing gum lose its flavor on the bedpost overnight? Can you repeat the phrase “blibber blabber” five times fast? Did you know that George Smith invented the first lollipop in 1908 and that

it was named after his favorite horse? Like peanut butter and party dresses, bubblegum and museum exhibits aren’t a combination that brings joy to the hearts of parents (let alone nearby museum curators). But the Clayton Historical Museum has a new exhibit, Yum Yum Bubblegum, about the history of candy, that’s sure to

attract sweeties of all ages. It turns out, the City of Clayton has not just one, but two connections to the candy business. George Cardinet of the Cardinet Candy Company lived in Clayton and was responsible for Abba-Zabba and the U-No bar. Yum!

See Candy page 8

By now, Clayton Valley Charter High School supporters will know whether or not they have the green light to get the school up and rolling by next fall, but they were heartened last week when the Contra Costa County Office of Education staff recommended that their charter petition be approved. The County Board of Education met on Jan. 11 to decide whether to adopt the staff recommendation. We did not have the results of their vote at press time. In its report, staff determined that, “the Petition represents a sound educational program, the budget is balanced, the financial and operation plan is realistic and the Petition contains reasonably comprehensive descriptions of the legally required elements.” The educational program and financial concerns were the top two reasons the petition was denied by MDUSD trustees Nov. 8. “We are encouraged and obviously appreciative of the work that the county staff has done,” said co-lead petitioner Neil McChesney.

See Charter, page 3

Clayton Counts Down keeps New Year’s Eve tradition alive

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

MAYOR HOWARD GELLER, called on the audience for help in judging the Clayton Counts Down Crazy Hat Contest on New Year’s Eve. Hannah McCauley’s extraordinarily detailed creation was named winner of the 10 and over division. Hanna, 11, and third from the right, is a student at MDES.

Clayton rang in 2012 in the now traditional way – with crazy hats, carnival games and a bounce house and slide. Every year, Clayton Counts Down draws several hundred to the Community Gym on New Years Eve for barbequed hot dogs and hamburgers and some good old-fashioned, high-energy fun. The photo booth had kids and parents waiting in line for an hour or more to mug for the camera, the “balloon lady” turned out swords and scabbards, unicorns, elephants and flowers. Kids crowded the crafts tables, working intently on their creations for the “Crazy Hat Contest,” where three youngsters took home Brendan Theatre tickets for their efforts. This was the ninth year for the free

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

event sponsored by the local organizations and merchants and chaired by Julie Pierce, Sandy Johnson, Laura Hoffmeister and Laci Peterson. Cost to mount the event runs around $6,500 and is entirely supported by contributions from the CBCA, Allied Waste, P2C Foundation, Comcast, Jim Webb, Travis Credit Union, Ed’s Mudville Grill, Clayton Club, Gary and Kim Napper, Dan and Sandy Lawrence and Endashiian, LLC with non-monetary contributions from All Out Sports League and the city of Clayton. “It’s such a fun, family event,” says Pierce. “The kids run off their holiday energy and the event ends early enough for the parents to still celebrate in their own way.”

Community Calendar . . . . . .12 CVHS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . .9 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . .9 Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . .15

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

CRAIG JOHNSON, HOWARD GELLER, DAVID SHUEY AND MARK MCCAULEY manned the grills at the annual Clayton Counts Down New Years Eve event.

Fit with Levity . . . . . . . . . . . .16 From the Chief . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Pioneer Photo Album . . . . . . .3

Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . .13

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 13, 2012

Around Town Local Scouts give time and talent to benefit community

Kyle Barry, Roman Merritt, Charlie Pesmark and Andre Buckman of Cub Scout Pack 262 were truly in the Christmas spirit last month when they helped the Blue Star Moms tie and donate 10 blankets for the children at the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. Just the week before the blanket projects, the Cubs were Christmas Caroling at Diamond Terrace. The pack is sponsored by the CBCA.

Diamond Terrace swings with The Honeybees Diamond Terrace recently hosted a USO party where The Honeybee Trio entertained the residents and guests with clas-

sics from the swing era. The three young women, ages 15 and 16, sang in close three-part harmony, with an emphasis on

songs from the 1930s and 40s. Formed in 2008 the trio has performed for veterans groups throughout the state air shows,

THE HONEYBEE TRIO ENTERTAINED DIAMOND TERRACE RESIDENTS with songs from the swing era at a recent USO party. Pictured are residents Ron Munk, JoAnne Owen, Estelle Loza and Gordon Steele.

on the USS Hornet and at VIP receptions for military officers at local military bases. Eight active military personnel surprised the gathering, dancing with many residents who could so vividly remember attending USO parties much like this one. “The men and women who served in WWII or are surviving spouses of those who served were tremendously touched by this extremely nostalgic evening affair,” says Diamond Terrace Marketing Director Suzette Wong. “Likewise, the active US Military personnel were honored to be connected with the past so vividly that night.”

Geller family welcomes newest member

Molly’s blood drive pays it forward

Julian Rike, Ryan Sheffield, Nick Stark and Thomas Santala of Boy Scout Troop 444 demonstrated scout kindness and cheerfulness when they gathered and donated five bags of toys and clothes to the Bay Area Crisis Nursery in Concord. The troop is sponsored by St. Bonaventure Church.

Clayton

For the third time, Molly Avilez “pays it forward” by organizing an annual blood drive for the American Red Cross. This year’s drive netted 86 units of blood, more than double the average collection for Bay Area drives. Each donation has the potential to save three lives. Molly’s own life was saved by donated blood when she was just an infant and was the victim of an auto accident. Pictured at right are Molly (left) with donor Valerie Khon of Clayton.

Clayton

4.58 Acre Horse Property! Country living right on the edge of town!

Charming Single Story Rancher!

Nikolett Emma Pandelis, born Saturday. Dec. 17 is the newest granddaughter for Howard Geller and Debbie Mullins and Debbie Geller, all of Clayton. Nikolett joins her parents Rebecca and Nick Pandelis and brother Jaxon in their Antioch home.

GEORGE VUJNOVICH Broker Helping friends, neighbors & newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979

4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2306sf! Large Living room with vaulted beam ceiling & fireplace offers fantastic views! Country kitchen. Big family room with fireplace & wet bar. 3 stall barn & arena area. Panoramic views abound. Plenty of room for all your toys! $594,000

Clayton Chaparral Springs at Oakhurst Country Club! “Manzanita” model 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,355sf, fireplace, inside laundry & a 2 car attached garage. Neutral décor throughout! Cozy private patio. Walk to community pool & spa as well as downtown! $255,000

Walnut Creek Custom Single Story Rancher built in 1998!

4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 2138sf & 2 car garage! Large kitchen opens to spacious family room with fireplace. Formal living/dining. New paint & carpet & neutral décor throughout. Private lot features a deck and lush lawn area. Tucked away on a private lane. Centrally located near shopping, dining & commute. $524,900

4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, inside laundry & 2 car garage! Kitchen opens to family room with fireplace. Living & dining rooms. Huge .36 acre level backyard with views of hills & Mt. Diablo! Possible RV parking. $459,900

Clayton Falcon Ridge at Oakhurst Country Club! Exquisite Expanded “Serenade” model!

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

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Pleasant Hill Charming Two Story on a large corner lot!

4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1921sf & 2 car garage. Open floor plan features living, dining and family room. Newly updated bathrooms! Downstairs bedroom and full bath. New carpet and paint. Great court location. Approximately .23 acre lot features a covered patio and in-ground pool! $449,900

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

PRICE

968 Tiffin Drive ....................$489,000 1288 Shell Circle .................$315,000 8114 Marsh Creek Road......$680,000 1538 O’Hara Court .............$295,000 719 Tally Ho Court ...............$625,000 374 Blue Oak Lane..............$590,000 1181 Shell Lane ...................$330,000 510 Raven Place .................$490,500 317 Saclan Terrace..............$375,000 606 Golden Eagle Place......$445,000 356 Blue Oak Lane..............$641,000

SF . . . .1670 . . . .1367 . . . .3717 . . . .1436 . . . .2300 . . . .3008 . . . .1709 . . . .2053 . . . .1749 . . . .1816 . . . .3146

BED/BATH

SALE DATE

. . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . .1/3/12 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .12/27/11 . . . . .4/3 . . . . . .12/27/11 . . . . .3/2 . . . . . .12/23/11 . . . . .5/3 . . . . . .12/22/11 . . . . .4/3 . . . . . .12/22/11 . . . . .3/3 . . . . . .12/19/11 . . . . .3/2 . . . . . .12/16/11 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .12/15/11 . . . . .3/2 . . . . . .12/15/11 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .12/13/11

January 13, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Around Town

Charter,

Sandy Tesch and Ryan Wilkins wed

from page 1

SANDY TESCH AND RYAN WILKINS

Sandy Tesch and Ryan Wilkins were married on Sept. 10 at Endeavor Hall in Clayton. Longtime friend and Clayton resident Ted Meriam officiated. The two were high school sweethearts and announced their engagement on Oct. 14, 2010, following an elaborate proposal from Ryan, which involved a surprise scavenger hunt and a performance by the UC Berkeley Men’s Octet. Sandy, a sixth generation Claytonian, works for UC Berkeley as a fundraiser. She also volunteers for the Red Cross, representing the Americas on its international Youth Commission. She graduated

SOL

65 Antelope Court

$720,000

$399,000

$639,888

1749 Indian Wells Way

$359,000

4903 Keller Ridge Drive

$478,500

The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club held their annual installation of officers and holiday luncheon at the Oakhurst Country Club on Dec. 13. The new officers are co-presidents Becky Hanson and Priscilla Manlove; Nancy Boyle, first vice president/dean; Aleta Huck, second vice president/membership; Joan Bergum, third vice

Pioneer Photo Album Golden Gate Moon While on a family excursion to San Francisco over the holiday, Silvia Soto truly captured the moment with this great shot of son Alan, 4, riding on the shoulders of his uncle Jerry Richardson of Concord. Alan is the grandson of Tamara and Bob Steiner of Clayton. In keeping with our motto, “It’s Your Paper,” the Pioneer is proud to spotlight our reader’s photos. Send in your cute pets, funny kids, great landscapes, favorite sites in town or whatever makes your heart beat a little faster. Email your photo in a hi-resolution jpeg or tiff format to album@claytonpioneer.com with a description of the photo, where and when it was taken and a little about why you like it. Include your name and phone number. Then look for it in the next Pioneer.

211 Clifford Court

SOL

$525,000

7 Donner Creek Court

$243,350

917 Kenston Drive

$425,000

510 Raven Place

*Statistics based on Clayton & Concord closed by sales volume (12/1/09 – 12/1/10). Data by Trendgraphix

DRE# 01122025

Concord 1006 Barkwood Ct 1158 Camino Solano 23 Ceemar Ct 5251 Clearbrook Dr 5375 Crystyl Ranch Dr 4843 Geneva Ave 5261 Hiddencrest Ct 1951 Holly Creek Pl 1403 Idaho Ct 3290 Ida Dr 1372 Kansas Cir 5450 Kirkwood Dr 5502 Lynbrook Ct

$615,000

921 Sylvaner Court

Clayton

33 Mountaire Court

SOL

More Solds – WINDERMERE

Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else*

$595,000

356 Blue Oak Lane . . . .$641,000 8114 Marsh Creek Rd . .$680,000

$520,000

SOL

$490,500

70 El Molino Drive

SOL

52 La Honda Court

SOL

$515,450

$198,000

SOL

328 Mt. Washington

CLAYTON VALLEY GARDEN CLUB The Clayton Pioneer’s own Garden Girl, Nicole Hackett, has been elected president of the Clayton Valley Garden Club for 2012. The Clayton Valley Garden Club has over 70 enthusiastic members who are excited about every aspect of gardening. Monthly meetings are held February through November, 7 p.m., at Diamond Terrace in Clayton. The Garden Club offers presentations on a variety of gardening-related topics. Members enjoy fieldtrips, plant sales, workshops and civic projects while learning new skills. For more information about the Garden Club, go to claytonvalleygardenclub.org.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CVWC 2012 OFFICERS: Back Row: Jeanne Groschwitz, Judy Bates, Joyce Atkinson, Mary Hinds, Nancy Boyle and Aleta Huck. Front Row: Joan Bergum, Shirley Boyd, Becky Hanson and Priscilla Manlove.

SOL

$559,000

GFWC CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB INSTALLATION OF 2012 OFFICERS

223 Mountaire Parkway

1240 Buckeye Terrace

president/programs; Shirley Boyd and Jeanne Groschwitz, co-recording secretaries; Kathy Olson, corresponding secretary; Judy Bates, budget director; Rosemary Harwood, treasurer; Mary Hinds, auditor; Joyce Atkinson, parliamentarian; and Jeanne Groschwitz, newsletter editor. Christmas music was provided Clayton musicians, Vintage. The Woman’s Club meets the second Tuesday of each month, except July and August. For membership information, call (925) 672-9448.

SOL

$600,000

The document also included conditions that must be met by March 1, 2012. There were significantly fewer conditions, however, than those imposed by the MDUSD months earlier. The County’s conditions include a more detailed plan for how the school would help students not meeting pupil outcomes, means for teachers to reflect on student assessment results, and verification of the school’s proposed $2 million line of credit. “We had a chance to look at those,” said McChesney. “In our first glance, I think they are doable, and in many cases involve simple clarification.” Sherry Whitmarsh, newly elected President of the MDUSD Board of Education, was philosophical. She pointed out that state cuts to next year’s budget aren’t as deep as the Board had feared, but noted that the district would nevertheless have less of a reserve to make up for future cuts in its budget. “I think that the financials that they’re approving it at are different from what we were given because the state changed the financial decision,” she said. “But I still think it’s a shame that every child in the district is going to have to be penalized because of it.” Said Clayton City Councilman David Shuey, “I am extremely heartened to see that staff has looked at the petition reasonably and without an agenda. I am hopeful the Board will likewise grant approval and fulfill the wishes of the citizens of Clayton and Concord.”

SOL

212 Mountaire Parkway

907 Arrowhead Terrace

Club News

SOL

447 Grenache Circle

from Clayton Valley High School in 2001 and from UC Berkeley in 2005. She is the daughter of Bob and Lois Henley of Concord, and the granddaughter of Martin A. Easton and the late Phyllis Frank Easton of Clayton. Ryan is from Concord, where his parents, Tim and Lisa Wilkins, still live. He graduated from Clayton Valley High School in 2001 and from St. Mary’s College in 2005. He works as a baseball research analyst for a sports agency in San Francisco. The couple honeymooned in Disneyland, Kauai and Maui. They live in San Francisco.

Page 3

$652,000

1456 Yosemite Circle

$506,600

LYNNE FRENCH & ASSOCIATES

641 Mt. Duncan Dr . . . .$605,000 30 Mt. Olympus Pl . . . .$523,000

4554 Lincoln Dr 4989 Murchio Dr 4427 Marsh Elder Ct 1921 Packard Ct 2405 Ranchito Dr 1005 Rolling Woods Wy 4410 Smoke Tree Ct 1115 St. Francis Dr 1192 St. Francis Dr 5741 Tamarac Wy 3564 Torino Wy 5055 Valley Crest Dr 5305 Woodgrove Ct

301 Saclan Terrace . . . . .$360,000 303 Saclan Terrace . . . . .$365,000 39 Westbrook Court . . .$434,000

East Bay 4843 Cushendall Wy, Antioch 1117 Danberry Ct, Antioch 2301 Glendale Cir, Antioch 5104 Sundance Ct, Antioch 4323 Briones Valley Rd, Brentwood 2238 Southwest Ct, Martinez 124 Mont St. Michel Wy, Martinez 1329 Yosemite Cir, Oakley 18 Deep Water Ct, Richmond

219 Dias Cir, Pittsburg 2209 Glen Canyon Dr, Pittsburg 1923 Buttner Rd, Pleasant Hill 1036 Camino Verde Cir, Walnut Creek 2452 Walnut Blvd, Walnut Creek 51 Carisa Court, Walnut Creek

Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 13, 2012

Church objects to increased EIR fee, says city is biased against project TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

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Progress on the Clayton Community Church’s plan to build a four-building complex on Main Street hit a wall last fall when they were hit with a bill for more than $68,000 to complete the Environmental Impact Report. In light of the additional fees, the church hit the pause button in September. The draft EIR was presented to the city in May 2011. Public reaction to the draft was strong, say the consultants, generating over 300 letters and emails. After weeding out duplicate and irrelevant comments, this left 72 environmental issues that must be addressed before a final report can be prepared. The extra time needed to cover these issues will require $48,000 more than the original contract for the consultants and an estimated $20,000 in staff time. The church says this amount is excessive. In a five-page letter to the city

in November, the church’s attorney Edward Grutzmacher, said LSA Associates, the consultants preparing the EIR, is a professional consulting firm and should have anticipated the heavy response. “CCC should not be punished for LSA’s inability to stay within its contract and City staff ’s inability to manage the City’s consultants.” Grutzmacher wants LSA to waive the additional charges or he says the city should pay them. In his letter, Grutzmacher also claims the city has been biased against the project from the beginning, requiring a full EIR when it has not required it from other recent projects, and requiring the church to prepare a “parking study for the entire downtown.” Current zoning requires the church to provide 222 onsite parking places for the 42,000 sq. ft complex. Their plans provide for 54 places onsite. They are ask-

ing the city to waive the onsite requirements and allow them to use street parking to cover the shortfall. “The City has habitually granted parking variances to commercial development in the Downtown as a means to encourage development…CCC should not need to pay for the City’s promotion of commercial development by funding a parking study for the entire downtown.” The church claims the city may be in violation of the federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) by imposing requirements on the church project they would not require of another developer. The church has asked the city and LSA Associates to address these concerns at the Jan. 17 City Council meeting. “To what purpose is odd,” said Napper in an email to the Pioneer. “The City Council cannot force the consultant to per-

form unanticipated work. And, according to our city attorney, the city cannot pay for the work stemming from a private development. This would be a gift of public funds.” The matter may or may not be on the Jan. 17 agenda, Napper said. The consultants want to be paid if they have to come to a council meeting to defend their budget and the church objects to paying LSA Associates for the appearance. The church can appear under Public Comments, but the council cannot take action on those matters, noted Napper. Until the fee issue is resolved, the item cannot be placed on the agenda. “We hope to work further on this conundrum next week,” Napper said. The Jan. 17 agenda will be posted on the city of Clayton website at www.ci.clayton.ca.us by end of day Jan. 13.

SMD host three events to see new properties Save Mount Diablo is kicking off 2012 with a sneak peek into lands not yet open to the public with a habitat restoration, a family hike and a tour of new parklands. On Monday, Jan. 16, from 9 a.m. to noon, the public can join SMD’s restoration team to restore habitat along Marsh Creek in a day of service to mark Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday. No experience is necessary. In December SMD planted 200 native plants and

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300 grass plugs along the upland floodplain to enhance habitat for wildlife. During the day of service volunteers will be watering the shrubs, removing nonnatives along the creek and seeding areas with native grasses and shrubs. Bring water, a snack, a sturdy steel rake and gloves if you have them. Be sure to dress in layers and bring a rain jacket. Long pants and sturdy shoes are required. Meet at 3240 Aspara Dr., Clayton. RSVP to gphillips@savemountdiablo.org

or 925-947-3535. On Saturday, Jan. 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., David Ogden will be leading a Family Hike at Mangini Ranch, the first such hike of the season. Closed to the public, SMD’s 208-acre property includes the headwaters of Galindo Creek with rolling grasslands, oaks, buckeyes, and a rare desert olive grove. Visit a secret spring and keep your eyes out for bobcats and coyotes looking for breakfast, plus burrowing owls, quail, and many other feathered

LEIGH KLOCK

friends. This is a two-hour, four mile hike with one strenuous climb. Meet at the hiker gate on Crystyl Ranch Drive between Autumn Oak Circle and Rolling Woods Way. Finally, on Jan. 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., John Gallagher will lead a tour of the new addition to Morgan Territory Regional Preserve between Morgan Territory Regional Preserve and Mount Diablo State

See SMD, page 12

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January 13, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

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Chiropractor Coflin Chiropractic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6500 Churches and Religion Clayton Community Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9060 City of Clayton Affordable Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7340 Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Black Diamond Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .777-3440 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212-3339 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 J&J’s Final Coat Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .625-5849 Smith & Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0138 Steffan Smith Kitchen & Bath Remodeling . . . . .914-0497 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Memo’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .691-6200 Ravioli’s Italian Market Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-3819 Subway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0621 Willows Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-1300 Events Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . .672-4848

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Business Services Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . . .672-8717

Financial and Insurance Services Dawn King Bookkeeping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .933-0553 Held, Chris - Wells Fargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .609-9415 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Miller, Tom, CPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .354-1385 Prosperitas Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7700 Snyder, Ken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .270-3617 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300

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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 discriminates on the basis of race, color,

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Auto Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739

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WANTED Come join Mazzei Realty Currently interviewing and hiring new and experienced real estate agents. Call 693-0757 for details. Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today 6728787.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Help Fight Hunger Anna Chan – AKA: The Lemon Lady needs your help! Weekly commitment appreciated. Please contact Anna at 672-1988 or AnnaAndAva@gmail.com. Meals on Wheels Drivers 1 – 1 1/2 per week. Drivers and relief drivers needed for delivery of Meals on Wheels in East County. Call Jim at 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@att.net. Hospice of the East Bay – Anna’s Attic Volunteer at Anna’s Attic Thrift Shoppe, located at 5350 Clayton Road. 674-9072. To learn more about volunteering for Hospice of the East Bay please contact 8875678, or email volunteers@hospiceeatbay.org. Clayton Historical Society Museum Greeter for two hours per month from 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays or Sundays. Call the museum at 6720240 and leave your name. Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Minimum age 13. Minimum commitment is 6 months. Some training provided. Contact: Arlene @ 673-9777 or email: nielsenjanc@aol.com

Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Just Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-4747 Navlet’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-0550 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Mailing Services The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Optometry Foresight Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4100 Pet Services Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Pet Suites Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodie’s Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services French, Lynne - Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Klock, Leigh - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Laurence, Pete - RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt -Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Toll Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0400 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness All Out Sports League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203-5626 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Diablo FC Soccer Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-4625 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Levity Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2995 SNAP Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0110 Senior Services Courtyards at Pine Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-3900 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Montecito - Oakmont Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . .852-6702 Services, Other Ararat Exterminators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-7020 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 Rodie’s RV & Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Specialty Shops Blessed Brides by Sarah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1200 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447

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Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 13, 2012

Every day can be New Year’s Day

STEPHANIE HO MIND MATTERS Here we are in 2012. It is a new year and with that new year comes the traditional exercise of making new year’s resolutions. If you are like most people, then you might find it hard to keep those resolutions to stop smoking, save more money, lose weight and exercise more... The list could go on and on. After all, what makes Jan. 1 any different than Dec. 31 except maybe the unwrapping of a new calendar or planner if you are oldschool like me? The answer: Nothing. If you were not inspired to make change

at the end of 2011, then you will not be any further inspired to make change at the beginning of 2012. Instead, you might find yourself feeling guilty, ashamed, or demoralized that your best intentions to follow your resolutions fell far short in the reality of daily life. So, why does this happen? Why is it so hard to make change whether we whisper our plan to ourselves or blast it out on our Facebook status? Simply put, it is because you are not ready to change, no matter what the date on the calendar reads. In therapy, we often utilize the Transtheoretical Model of Change, developed by Prochaska and DiClemente, when people come to us wanting to make a behavioral change of some sort. Here is a summary of the model’s different stages of change: Precontemplation: People don’t even know that there is a problem with their current behavior. They are in denial about the consequences of their behavior and

RDAs, from page 1 afford projects they otherwise could not have done otherwise, it’s a wise investment. The common thought is that for every $1 spent on redevelopment, $7 is generated for that municipality.” Many of the critics of RDAs claim that cities have misused funds, spending lavishly on such things as sports stadiums, shopping centers and theater complexes. In fact, Santa Clara officials are looking at losing $40 million earmarked for the new San Francisco 49ers stadium. In Clayton, however, Geller says that improvements have been much more humble – and in line with the original mission of the

agencies. “We literally put in sewers and sidewalks downtown, retaining walls, parking lots…these are quality-of-life improvements for the residents of Clayton.” Redevelopment money also helped fund such things as the Endeavor Hall renovation, the Clayton Community Gym, and the Concert in the Grove series, among others. While some people might claim that these projects aren’t fighting blight, Geller and his colleagues on the City Council disagree. “All of these things help the local economy, and that is the best way to improve cities,” he said.

Obituary

avoid thinking about the negative downside. Contemplation: People are now aware that there is a problem and they are also acutely aware of both the pros and the cons of their behavior. People tend to feel stuck here as they are ambivalent about whether to make change, since they’d have to let go of the pros as well. Preparation: The cons have begun to outweigh the pros. People are ready to make a change in the next month. These folks usually find the resources they need, seek out the support they want, and they create a plan for what they want to do next. Action: The plan to make change finally comes to fruition. People have made specific modifications in behavior or lifestyle in the last six months. They are doing things differently. Maintenance/Recycling: People have managed to keep up the behavioral changes and now remain vigilant to monitor for

when they are vulnerable to fall back into old habits and patterns. It is the norm rather than the exception that people cycle back to what was familiar. It is important to be compassionate and selfaware of when a relapse happens, so that one can learn from it and continue to move forward without berating yourself in the process. Regardless of how many stages you move through or how fast, it is important to remember that you won’t budge an inch towards change if you don’t believe anything needs to change, if the cons don’t outweigh the pros, and if you are not uncomfortable enough with the consequences of your behavior to do something different about it. Think of this as permission to let any day of the year be your Jan. 1 and the start of something new. Stephanie T. Ho is a licensed psychologist. She has a private practice office in Walnut Creek and works at UC Berkeley. She can be reached at stephanie.ho.phd@gmail.com.

City Manager Gary Napper plans to present a report to the council at its Jan. 17 meeting about how the loss of redevelopment funds will impact Clayton. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton. One gray area in all of the redevelopment chaos is “setaside” funds allotted to the cities for affordable housing, about 20 percent of the entire redevelopment budget. That’s about $500,000, says council member Julie Pierce. “No one really knows what is going to happen to that money,” Pierce says. “The state may grab it, or it may be absorbed into another sort of agency that will work with the cities. At this point, no one really knows.”

Pierce has been at the forefront of this issue for the city, and she recently met with State Senator Mark De Saulnier, (D-Concord) to help gather support for continuing the redevelopment agencies – or at least keeping the “set-aside” funds under the auspices of the city. “I don’t know what the state hopes to get out of doing away with RDAs,” she says. “Once you take off bond obligations, there isn’t that much left to help out on the state budget.”. Whatever happens over the next couple of months – and Geller and Pierce says it’s anyone’s guess – one thing is sure: Clayton will miss its RDA. “Our redevelopment agency made Clayton the community it is today,” Pierce says.

Enroy Gomez Dec. 18, 1929 – Dec. 30, 2011 Community loses longtime resident Gomez Clayton native, Enroy Gomez, descendant of two of Clayton’s pioneering families, the Gomezes and Joaquins, died after a long illness on Dec. 30. Enroy was born in the family home on Oak Street in Clayton. During his childhood, his parents, Tony and Mary Gomez, moved around the area from Clayton, to the outer Marsh Creek Road area, Irish Canyon and back to Clayton. Enroy’s father worked mostly in hay growing and harvesting and cattle ranching. Enroy was the 10th born of 11 children. When the Clayton School was housed in a two-room building at the top of the hill where Mt. Diablo Elementary sits now, Enroy graduated from the eighth grade. The year was 1943 – the last year the little two-room school was open. He subsequently graduated from Mt. Diablo High School in 1947. The U. S. Army drafted Enroy to serve in the Army in 1951. He received special training as a medical technician. The young man who’d hardly strayed far from the Clayton area got an eight-hour pass in Honolulu, HI and was assigned at Ryukyus Hospital in Okinawa. During his 15-month stay in Okinawa he tended to patients needing 24hour ICU care. An honorable discharge was granted at Camp Stoneman in 1953.

Most of his adult life was spent in Concord and Pleasant Hill while he worked for the United States Postal Service. He began at the Post Office in 1954 as a clerk and retired from the Main Post Office in 1985 as a supervisor. An avid walker and hiker, locals have probably encountered him walking around Clayton or hiking on Mt. Diablo. He also branched out and went hiking in King’s Canyon National Forest and the Lake Tahoe area. Ever curious and deliberate, he stopped along the trails to take exceptional photographs. Memorial Services were held at Clayton’s Endeavor Hall on Jan. 11, 2012. Endeavor Hall is but a stone’s throw from Enroy’s childhood home on Oak Street. Enroy was a Life Member of the Clayton Historical Society, a charter member of the exclusive “1857 League” and contributor to the “Plaque Committee” for the Society. At Enroy’s requests, memorial donations may be made to the Clayton Historical Society, P.O. Box 94, Clayton, CA 94517 More information about this family and many other pioneering families may be found at the Clayton Historical Society Museum, 6101 Main Street, Clayton or visit the website claytonhistory.org. By Janet Easton

For Sale:

Affordable Housing Unit The City of Clayton is accepting applications from qualified households interested in purchasing an affordable single-family home in Clayton. This home is being sold by a private developer to satisfy a City of Clayton affordable housing requirement. The home is being offered to a qualified moderate-income household. This beautifully maintained home is located on a cul-de-sac in the Black Diamond Subdivision. This subdivision has a Homeowners’ Association, with common pool, spa, and tennis courts. The home is two stories, with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and an attached two-car garage. The size of the home is approximately 1,749 square feet; the lot size is approximately 3,947 square feet. Program restrictions of the City’s Affordable Housing Program require a minimum household size of three persons. Applicants must not have held a home ownership interest within the prior 36 months. The actual sales price will be based on various factors including household size, the interest rate on the loan obtained, and gross household income.

The 2011 maximum qualifying household income limits for purchase of this affordable home are: Persons in Household

Moderate Income Limits (Min.) $58,501 $64,951 $70,151 $75,351 $80,551 Moderate Income Limits (Max.) $99,700 $110,750 $119,600 $128,450 $137,350 Source: State of California Department of Housing and Community Development 2011 Income Limits

To ensure long-term affordability of the residence, a deed restriction will be recorded at the time of sale. Applicants must meet household income restrictions for the income category, based on the size of the household as well as other applicable requirements listed in the application materials.

Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m., Fri., Jan. 27, 2012, & extended, if necessary, until an eligible household has been identified for the purchase. For an application visit the City's website at

www.ci.clayton.ca.us or contact the Clayton Community Development Department at (925) 673-7340

January 13, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 7

The UPS Store

Casso killer committed to state hospital TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Shannon Bradley Moore, the man who viciously stabbed Ray Casso, 73, to death in the Clayton Post Office on March 7, 2009, was committed to Napa State Hospital for 16 years to life last Friday. Finally, the proceedings are over. No more hearings. No more delays. Only emptiness for a family that feels cheated of justice. At his trial on Dec. 10, Moore, now 39, pleaded guilty to second degree murder. But, despite the plea, Judge Barbara Zuniga declared him not guilty by reason of insanity, leaving a very slight possibility that he could someday petition the court for restoration of sanity. The family is angry and

despite assurances from the prosecutor and Judge Zuniga that his history of mental illness would keep him in lockup forever, they fear that Moore may someday manipulate the system and go free. At the hearing last Friday, the family had their first and only opportunity to tell Moore how profound was their loss. Barely controlling his rage, a frustrated and grieving Ray Casso, Jr. read from his notes. “Not a night goes by that I’m not missing my father – and the way he was murdered by that bastard.” “You didn’t just murder my uncle, you murdered a family,” Natalie Trost told Moore. “He was the kind of man that, before you entered the room, you knew he was there.” Their words and their grief

were wasted on a pale, bloated, medicated Moore who sat staring at the table in front of him. The family accepts that Moore is insane. However, insane or not, they believe he knew what he was doing when he carried a butcher knife into the post office and stabbed Ray Casso in the neck and face. “Someone was going to die that day,” Rick Casso said. “And it was my father.” The post office worker that was on duty that day also feels there is no justice in the sentence. He says Moore knew what he was doing. Moore wanted Tony Oliver to change some postage stamps for cash. When Tony said it was against regulations, Moore stormed toward the west entrance, put his water bottle and the stamps down on the

counter in the corner, pulled his knife and in a rage, attacked Ray Casso and stabbed him to death. Tony was profoundly affected and has battled depression and PTSD since the murder, running the scene over and over in his mind, looking for something he could have done differently. Last to speak at the hearing was JoAnn Casso, Ray’s wife. She was still shaking from an accidental face-to-face encounter in the hallway with a handcuffed Moore as he was escorted to the courtroom. Turning to her husband’s killer, she summoned the strength to say, “You didn’t have the right to decide who would die that day. Only God has that right. I am a Christian, but I can never forgive you for what you did.”

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2012 brings stricter child safety seat laws Every year, thousands of children are injured or killed by safety seats that are improperly fastened by parents or guardians. Most accidents occur within a mile of the home, so it is imperative that parents or guardians properly buckle their children into an approved child safety seat in the back seat on every trip, no matter how short. This action is not only an excellent way to reduce the risk of serious injuries during auto collisions, but it is also required under California State Law.

Since Jan. 1, 2004, California Vehicle Code (CVC), section 27360, has required parents and guardians to properly restrain their children in an approved child safety seat in the back seat of the vehicle. The New Year brings some important changes to the CVC Child Passenger Restraint Law. Effective on Jan. 1, 2012, the CVC will require that all children must be secured in an appropriate child passenger restraint (safety seat or booster seat) in the back seat of a vehicle until they are at least 8

Cottrell pleads not guilty to sex crimes charges DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

Despite allegedly confessing while in the custody of Walnut Creek police, former Diablo View Middle School teacher Andrew Cottrell last week pled not guilty at his arraignment to charges of sex crimes against a former student. Two new charges, for possession of child pornography on a computer, were also added to the list of 20 others against him. Those included unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor under 16, and lewd acts with a victim who is 14 or 15 years old. Public defender Ilean Baltodano was appointed to represent him. Although Baltodano did not

respond to several telephone calls for comment, Dan O’Malley, a criminal defense attorney in Concord who worked previously as a Deputy District Attorney and Superior Court Judge, described the crimes as the “worst of the worst.” He noted, however, that “this District Attorney really is diligent in trying to seek justice, and most importantly trying to make sure the victim feels protected and represented by the DA’s office.” As the charges currently stand, O’Malley estimated Cottrell could be facing more 15 years in state prison for his crimes if convicted. Cottrell’s next court date is Jan. 19, at which time a preliminary hearing will probably be scheduled.

DAN LAWRENCE

FROM

THE

CHIEF

years old or 4’ 9” in height. Under the old law, the limit was at least 6 years old, or weigh at least 60 pounds. What is the primary reason for the change? The latest research has indicated that height is a more important factor than weight in reducing the extent of injuries during collisions. Securing children in a child passenger restraint system in the rear of the vehicle is still a requirement in the 2012 CVC Child Restraint Law. Children are at a greater risk when riding in the front seat. A child’s injury risk is reduced by 33 percent when moved from the front seat to the back seat. The following are the only exceptions to riding in the back seat of the vehicle: there is no back seat; the rear seats are side-facing or rear-facing seats; the child seat cannot be properly installed in the rear seat area; all rear seats are already occupied by children under the age of 12 years; medical reasons necessitate that the child not ride in the rear seat. Additionally, the Law states

that a child under 1 year old, or who weighs less than 20 pounds, or who is riding in a rear-facing safety seat may not ride in the front seat of a motor vehicle with an active passenger air bag. The child passenger restraint seat system must meet applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards. What constitutes an appropriate child passenger restraint system? You may find the answer to this question by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website, at www.nhtsa.gov. Although newly purchased child passenger restraint systems have instructions for their use, only certified persons can provide assistance to parents who need help. Engine 11 of the Contra Costa County Fire District has personnel trained and available, by appointment, to assist Clayton residents who need help properly securing their children into a child safety seat. Their phone number is 925-930-5500.

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Dan Lawrence is Clayton’s Police Chief. Please send your questions, comments or topics you’d like to see covered to DanL@cpd.ci. concord.ca.us

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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mation from the comparables will be reviewed by any potential buyers in deciding how much to offer for the home. In order for the buyer to get their loan, the property has to appraise for the price they are paying. A. Once you put your house on the market, make sure your agent monitors the market very diligently. If you discover that the price that you finally listed your home for is too high, then lower it right away. The first two weeks a property is on the market is your best window of opportunity. If you are still afraid the price seems too low then make sure your realtor markets it fully before you look at an offer. Q. I want to give some advice to realtors out there: Please slow down and speak to me as a lay person. After a consultation with my realtor or, better yet, when I am with more than one realtor, I feel like we are speaking different languages. I hear words like CMA, HUD, MLS, Fannie May, Freddie Mac, FHA, REO, Contingent, Contingent LA, Regular sale, Equity Sale, Short sale, BOM, Motivated seller, Priced to sell etc. And don’t get me started with descriptions of properties: “Needs TLC, sparkling pool, As-Is, cosmetic fixer, decorator perfect, too many upgrades to name, gourmet

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And Elaine’s Toffee Company – owned by sisters Janet Long, Linda Bardwil, and Anita Layng and their dad Jim Ahlgren – started in Clayton, named after the sisters’ mother, Elaine. Double-yum! The Ahlgren family made toffee for years in the kitchen of their Clayton home. Jim and Elaine then passed the recipe down to their daughters. Years later, in response to popular demand for the toffee, the family business was started. Early batches of the chocolaty, crunchy treat were made in the kitchen of what is now Moresi’s, until demand outgrew their ability to keep up. Their toffee is now manufactured elsewhere and sold throughout the country. Long, who still lives in Clayton, is grateful for the support she’s received locally. “The community has been fabulous,” she said. “I’m kind of known in Clayton as the toffee lady. They’ve rallied around.” In addition to lending items to the exhibit from the family’s history of making candy, Long donated toffee to be sold there, with proceeds going to support the museum. Visitors to the museum will find everything from a Sees’ Candies toy truck collection to an extensive display of Pez dispensers (including Star Trek and Star Wars-themed sets), and M&M memorabilia including a

real telephone whose base can be filled with the candy (melts in your mouth, not in your phone?). Third grade students from Mt. Diablo Elementary are planning to come by, said museum curator Mary Spryer, but logistical difficulties prevented Highlands Elementary’s planned field trip. As a result, Spryer is keeping the exhibit up as long as possible, in the hopes that parents will bring their children for a visit. She plans to gift each child who comes with a free Yum Yum Bubble Gum pencil and a piece of candy. Spryer hopes that the special exhibits the museum hosts – past themes have included quilting and classic cars – will attract people who wouldn’t normally come by, to discover the museum’s myriad treasures. She pointed out that the museum isn’t just for grownups. “Sometimes people say, oh, he’s 5, so I don’t know if he would enjoy [the museum]. But really, younger kids come to the museum because we have some things for them to do,” she said. “It’s enjoyable. It’s eye candy for them, too.” This Historical Society Museum is located at 6101 Main Street in Clayton. Call the museum at 925672-0240 for hours.

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kitchen, prime, sought-after, contractors dream, new water heater, paint & carpet.” Help! A. I guess we realtors get carried away, don’t we? On the first part I will try to clarify. CMA: comparable market analysis; HUD: Department of Housing and Urban Development; MLS: Multiple Listing Service; Fannie May & Freddie Mac: federal agencies that back most non-FHA loans; FHA: Federal Housing Administration; REO: bank-owned; Contingent: sale can’t be completed until buyer’s current house sells; Contingent LA: sale is contingent on bank’s approval for a short sale; Regular sale: not a short sale or foreclosure; Equity sale: regular sale; Short sale: owner owes more than they can sell the property for; BOM:

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REAL ANSWERS Back on the market; Motivated seller: priced to sell; Priced to sell: priced lower than market value. Send your question & look for your answer in a future column. Email: Lynne@LynneFrench.com. Lynne French is the Broker/Owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions contact her at (925) 672-878 7 or stop in at 6200 Center Street, Suite E, in Clayton.

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Q. How do I really determine the value of my home? I have seen a CMA from a realtor but I don’t trust it. Isn’t each home different? I am afraid that I will price my home too low. A. You didn’t say if the realtor that provided the CMA (comparative market analysis) is a local realtor. How well does the agent know the area? If they are local they should be familiar with the various neighborhoods and models in each. The location within the neighborhood is important. There are premium locations which have a higher value than one that is less desirable. Adjustments are made for size, defects and attributes of a comparing property. One thing that makes pricing difficult in our current market is the lack of comparable inventory. In this case the realtor might have to go back further in time than they normally would to find comps. They also might have to go a little further out of the immediate area to find similar homes. If you are uncomfortable with one realtor’s evaluation of the value of your home, invite one or two others to give their opinions. If you are still distrustful of the values they have presented then you can order a professional appraisal. A local lender can give you some referrals. The reason that the CMA is so important is that the infor-

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DAN AND SARAH COFLIN AND AMANDA SADLER, chiropractic assistant, demonstrate good posture at Coflin Family Chiropractic near Clayton. Treatment and information classes are available for chiropractic care or nutrition and weight loss. Customer Appreciation Day is Jan. 21. Sign up for a free consultation and exam. PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer

Dan Coflin was only in his 20s, but he felt like an old man. After years of sports and construction work, his back gave out, and the pain was so excruciating that he could hardly walk. Surgery seemed inevitable until he paid a visit to a chiropractor. “It changed my life,” Dr. Coflin says. He avoided surgery and was so impressed with his recovery that he enrolled in chiropractic school. Dr. Coflin and his wife, Sarah, opened Coflin Family Chiropractic near Clayton last fall. They offer a unique blend of chiropractic care and nutrition, focusing on good health and well-being for the entire family. The basis of chiropractic care is the relationship between the nervous system and the musculoskeletal functions of the body and how that affects one’s health. “Overall health is improved by a healthy nervous system,” Dr. Coflin says. “If you’re not at ease, you’re at risk of ‘disease.’” A tour of his office reveals no fancy technology, and Coflin says he only uses adjustment. “It encourages people to take care on their own with home exercises.” Sarah is a registered nurse and consultant for Arbonne personal care and nutrition products, offering guidance for better nutrition and weight loss. Holding up a pair of shorts larger than her current frame, Sarah says that a quest to detoxify her system helped her gain energy and lose 25 pounds.

The pairing of nutrition and chiropractic is the perfect fit. “It’s all about achieving balance,” Sarah says. Whether one is interested in chiropractic attention, better nutrition or both, the Coflins emphasize the educational component of their treatment by holding a variety of classes. On Saturday, Jan. 21, Dr. Coflin will hold a Customer Appreciation Day, a free consultation and exam to a limited number of new customers who make an appointment in advance. Much like Dr. Coflin’s transformation, patient Chris Morrow could not put on his own socks due to pain from a pinched sciatic nerve. Now he puts on his socks with ease and will soon put his own doctor of chiropractic degree on the wall. Morrow says, “Teaching me what chiropractic was gave me the confidence to pursue a career I never dreamed of.” Dr. Coflin brings more than 10 years of experience to the table, completing his degree at Life Chiropractic College West in 2001 and previously running a practice in Livermore. He and Sarah live in Clayton with their daughter, Emma. Rod S. VanBuskirk, D.C., the doctor that inspired Dan to pursue chiropractics, says Dan cares about people and is a very effective chiropractor. “We have come full circle; he’s actually adjusted me.” Coflin Family Chiropractic is located at 5444 Clayton Road, Suite B in Concord near Washington Boulevard. For more information, go to facebook.com/drdancoflin or call 672-6500.

January 13, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 9

Finals test a student’s self-discipline

CVHS REPORTER It’s hard to believe that nearly half of my freshman year is over. January has arrived ever so quickly and 2012 has begun. At school, the fall semester is practically through; teachers are madly entering homework and test scores and students are cramming for finals. Ah yes, the final days of the semester can be a crazy, chaotic time. Especially for those who slack off for the first 14 weeks, then wake up and smell the coffee right before grades are due. At Clayton Valley, quarterly grades are more like progress reports. However, the grades at the end of the semester can either leave an ugly stain or a scholarly mark on your permanent record. Many students rely on finals to raise or keep their GPA up. After all, most finals are worth 10-20 percent of one’s grade. A lot of students procrastinate to some extent, and usually cram in lastminute lessons before the test day or wing it. At some point, everyone has felt the urge to put off work for play. I place a lot of importance on my schoolwork, but it’s very tempting to slack off. Sometimes when I am doing my homework, my phone begins to beep and vibrate. I receive a text from my friend, “Do you want to hang out today?” I know I have a lot of homework and studying to finish, but sometimes I’m so ready to

ability to carry out decisions and plans, even if you have to face inconveniences, hardships or obstacles. The hardest of all, is the ability to go without instant and immediate gratification. Although it may be tempting to give in to procrastination or distractions, sometimes you just have to buckle down and take care of business. Final testing begins the last week of January, and I can already see myself

spending plenty of time in front of textbooks. Although there are an abundance of things I’d rather be doing on the weekends, grades have to come first. It may take some struggling or stressing, but the reward is worth having self-discipline. Robbie Parker is a freshman at Clayton Valley High School. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com

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TAYLOR TOVREA TEEN SPEAK The Christmas tree has been kicked to the curb and all of the fireworks and sparkling cider bubbles have fizzled out, marking the end of the celebratory holiday season and the beginning of the New Year’s cleanup. The first few weeks of January always seem to be filled with lists of chores, of both the housecleaning and self-improvement varieties, to tackle with all of the spunk and rejuvenation lent to us by the promise of a fresh start provided by the new year. There’s packing away decorations for storage; washing dishes and finishing up leftovers; heading to the gym to get fit again; tackling an item on your bucket list; and the classic vowing to actually stick with your resolutions this year. I’ve never been one for resolutions or washing dishes (much

to my mother’s chagrin) so my New Year’s cleanup is generally pretty brief. Writing thank you cards for the gifts I have received is the most substantial item on my to-do list but I hardly find it to be a chore. In fact I rather enjoy it. Many view these notes as merely a social obligation, brief notes of generic appreciation to be rushed through in order to keep moving down the list. I like to treat my letters of gratitude more like belated holiday cards to my family and friends. Most households are flooded with letters outlining the sender’s family’s life for the last year and expressing their love for the recipients around the holidays. However, once they have concluded, the stream of well-wishing heartfelt letters is replaced with half-hearted thank you cards. So in the hope of pleasantly surprising my loved ones with a rare, personal post-holiday card, when I sit down to pen my thanks, I do so thoroughly and sincerely and then continue on to fill every speck of blank space with writing: how I imagine

myself using their gift, how much I enjoyed seeing them this season, what I’ve been up to this year, etc. I enjoy spending time thanking people because I know they spent their time trying to pick out something special for me. It’s only right that they know that I recognize and appreciate their effort on my behalf. Thank you cards also allow me to reflect on the holiday and realize what I have received as I might not have fully done in the chaos and excitement of unwrapping gifts on Christmas morning. For me, there’s nothing better than starting off 2012 by reflecting on how fortunate I was last year and expressing my love to those I am closest to. Writing thank you cards reminds me of just how lucky I am to have the things that I have and the people I love in my life and gives me a new appreciation for being alive to enjoy them for another year. Taylor Tovrea is a senior at Clayton Valley High School. She is a regular contributor to the Pioneer. You can Email her at taylor@ claytonpioneer.com

new math/science teacher. Mrs. Creston Higgins, a teacher of six years, is taking over Mr. Cottrell’s sixth grade math/science course. Mrs. Higgins saw the opening at Diablo View Middle School on www.EdJoin.org. She previously worked at American Indian Public Charter School in downtown Oakland. She likes teaching math because she enjoys helping kids and making things more understandable for them. She appreciates the DVMS campus because of how everyone there is friendly. In her spare time, she likes to work out and play with her pet labradoodle, named Violet. I asked her how she feels about how Mr. Cottrell’s arrest impacted students’ learning. “It’s difficult for them,” she says. “It’s hard to get back into the same day-to-day learning after awful

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things happen. Kids need safety, and they need to be prepared.” The sixth graders like her, describing her as creative, smart and nice. In the classroom, she sends off good energy. She also has high expectations for her students. One sixth grade girl says Mrs. Higgins has her class take a lot of notes, and they cover about two lessons a day in math. Already, 2012 is shaping up to be a great year at DVMS. Celene Herrera is in the eighth grade at Diablo View Middle School. Email comments or questions to celine@claytonpioneer.com.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 13, 2012

Sports CV basketball, soccer teams ready for DVAL

Sports editor Jay Bedecarré is taking a short leave. In his absence, please send sports items to sports@claytonpioneer.com. Jay will be back in February.

RANDY ROWLAND Special to the Pioneer

After the festivities of the holiday season wind down and the students return to their studies at Clayton Valley High School, the school’s boys and girls basketball teams are preparing for league play and a run at their DVAL league championships. The winter sports seasons are well under way as the Varsity boys and girls teams head into the league portion of their season, with many unanswered questions, but the optimism to have successful campaigns. BOYS BASKETBALL For the Clayton Valley boys basketball team, both Head Coach Troy Sullivan and Assistant Coach Byron Dahl return for their ninth season at the helm of the varsity team. Coach Sullivan has scheduled a demanding preseason schedule to prepare the team for a very tough DVAL league schedule. The team’s preseason record was 8-3 with two third-place finishes in the Brett Callan Memorial and the Northgate Bronco Classic, and a second-place finish in the Antioch Straw Hut Classic.

Girls Basketball team, Taryn Pascal, Jen Lyons, Lauren Valory, Kim Anderson, Annemarie Del Bene and Jordan Johnson

CV EAGLE TYLER KOBATA drives to the basket for two of his game total 12 points against Richmond High. Clayton Valley took the game 72-45.

Senior Craig Ihle was named to the All-Tournament teams at Northgate and Antioch, while senior Garrett Lemos was AllTournament at the Callan Memo-

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rial. Returning players Ihle and Lemos, along with RJ Franco, Tyler Kobata, Tom Boyle, and Adam Sifferman will bring experience to a squad integrating newcomers Brandon and Aaron Silva, Brendan Boyle, Jeremiah Stielow, Stirling Pascal, John Moore, and Jacob Falls. Coach Sullivan expects a competitive DVAL league this year, with most teams headed to DVAL play with winning records, and returning a large number of players. “Every game will be a tight battle, with no clear cut favorite,” said Sullivan. He is pleased with the way the team has progressed through the preseason and notes the improvement, especially on the defensive end. He added, “the offense has come along a bit more slowly but we have had six different players score in double digits.” Ihle is averaging 16 points per game while Brandon Silva, Stielow, and Lemos are chipping in with seven ppg. Look for the Eagles to push for a winning league mark and an NCS berth this winter. GIRLS BASKETBALL The 2010-2011 basketball season was a historic one for the Lady Eagles. After going through DVAL play with a perfect 12-0 league record, the girls won several playoff games and went onto reach the NCS finals, and qualified for the State tournament. Despite the loss of all First-team players Sarah Nelson and Gina Del Bene, the returning nucleus

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and newcomers are expected to keep Clayton competitive all year this season. Head Coach Bernard Barnes, in his fifth season, returns with Assistants Kris Pascoe and Paul Kommer to once again lead the Eagles. The Eagles suffered a potentially devastating blow with the loss of DVAL league MVP, junior Ashley Allen, to injury, but the team has rallied behind returning senior starters Karley Menez and Molly Kommer. Other key returners include senior Emily Wood, junior Taryn Pascal, and sophomore point guard Annemarie Del Bene. Newcomers Hailey Pascoe, a freshman, and sophomores Kimmie Anderson, Jordan Johnson, and Kayla Taylor, along with junior Jen Lyons, provide the team with added depth.

Coach Pascoe expects a strong DVAL league but expects the team to be up to the challenge. “We still plan on working to repeat as league champs,” she said, noting the difficult schedule in the preseason. “The tougher opponents have challenged this young team, but we expect great things as the season progresses.” The Lady Eagles preseason mark of 5-8 is somewhat misleading because of the strength of schedule, and if the Eagles can continue to get contributions from such a deep roster, the coaches expect the team to challenge Northgate and Berean Christian for the league title. GIRLS SOCCER The Eagles Girls soccer team continued their winning ways a year ago by winning the DVAL league and reaching the second round of NCS where they were beaten by San Ramon Valley. Besides the team’s overall mark of 16-6-2, it notched a DVAL record of 11-0-1 that included a remarkable 0 goals against the entire run of league play. The girl’s soccer tradition at Clayton Valley goes back many seasons and the school has produced some of the top players in the area. This year Coach Scott Booth, in his third season as

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Head Coach and his seventh year on the coaching staff, understands the year will be a different kind of challenge. “This year will definitely be a rebuilding year for our program. We lost seven strong varsity starters, but we remain optimistic about the future of the program.” League MVP Kelsey Booth, now playing collegiate soccer at San Diego State, Melissa Del Bene, now playing for St. Mary’s College, and five other senior starters are impossible to replace, but Coach Booth is confident the team can be competitive. He noted preseason ties against perennially strong Carondolet and Foothill and a win against California. Among returning players who will bring experience to the young squad, Marrisa Merrigan and Megal Elms were both Secondteam All League in 2010-11. Others include Samantha Boeger and Alison Marines, along with many sophomores and juniors. There are four freshmen on the team, and this bodes well for the Eagles to continue their outstanding tradition over the next few years. The Clayton girls should once again challenge for the DVAL league championship. “Our goal is to win league,” said Coach Booth, “and that will be our focus from here until the end of the season.” The Eagles began DVAL play on Tuesday January 3, 2012 with a 6-0 win against Berean. BOYS SOCCER The Clayton Eagles Boys soccer varsity team had a banner year in 2010-11 and has set the bar even higher for this season. Coach Rory Gentry, after many seasons building the boys program at cross town rival Concord High, began coaching the Eagles in 2008. He is now in his fourth season. Also returning is Assistant Coach Franco Brunamonti, with long ties to the community

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January 13, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Sports

Take Me Out to the Ballgame! It’s time for CVLL tryouts DAVE SHUEY Special to the Pioneer

Spring is just around the corner and that means Clayton Valley Little League is gearing up for another year. Established in 1964, CVLL is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization providing baseball programs for kids ages 4 to 15, softball for girls ages 6 to 15, and a

JORDAN TILLMAN of the Teeball Nationals rounds third and goes home to score.

Challenger Division for players with physical and mental special needs. Last year, approximately 550 kids participated in baseball, approximately 130 girls participated in softball, and nearly 80 kids played in the challenger program. In addition, the league has hundreds of trained volunteer moms and dads managing, coaching, umpiring and scorekeeping. Games are played on fields located at the Clayton Community Park, Highlands Park, Highlands Elementary, Mt. Diablo Elementary and Clayton Valley High School. Depending on the number of teams, limited interleague games are played with surrounding little leagues. The result is that players have a great time, learn the game and learn valuable life lessons and skills. Perhaps most importantly, moms, dads, grandparents and even a few nannies don’t have to travel all over the Bay Area for practices and games. CVLL is taking online registration through Jan. 16, 2012 at www.cvll.org. Baseball has divisions for T-ball, Farm A & B, Minor A & B, Majors and Juniors and softball has Mini-minors, Minors, Majors and Juniors/Seniors. The website shows you where you child should be placed based on age

and ability. Tryouts for baseball age 8 through 12 are on Jan. 21, 22, 28, and 29, with make-ups on Feb. 4. Baseball players age 4 to 7 do not need to try out and will be placed on teams. Junior baseball tryouts will be at a date to be determined in February. Girls softball tryouts will be on Jan. 29 for all ages. Opening day for CVLL will be on March 18 and the season ends the last week of school so that no one has to miss any vacation plans. Of course, those on winning teams or All-Stars have the option of continuing to play through the summer depending on how many games are won. CVLL is extremely proud of its Challengers program that has been ongoing for more than 20 years. Playing on Sunday afternoons, this division is dependent on family and volunteers to shadow their special players and help them bat, field, throw and have a great day out in the sun. We encourage all our baseball and softball teams to help with these games and the kids learn sportsmanship and teamwork, get a wonderful appreciation of life from a different perspective and a develop an even deeper love of the game. Email info@cvll.org with questions.

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Page 11

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Clayton Valley High School football kicker Eddie Juarez took his First-team All-league kicking talents to the Kohl’s Kicking and Punting Competition Camp in Los Angeles in December, competing against nearly 50 of the best high school and junior college kickers in the west. The Ugly Eagle junior ended up being ranked No. 2 overall in field goals (#1 kicker was a sophomore in college) and No. 11 overall in kickoffs. Eddie was among the top 30 kickers overall from Kohl’s five nationwide camps selected to compete in Orlando, Florida, this weekend.

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DVAL, from page 10 as a soccer coach and referee. Gentry’s Eagles have won the DVAL league the past two seasons, last year with a record of 10-0-2. After achieving an overall record of 17-4-6, and with the boys advancing to the NCS semifinals, Gentry was named All

East Bay Coach of the Year 2010. Despite the loss of Eli Padilla, last season’s offensive MVP, with his 28 goals, this year’s squad is loaded with senior talent, and is poised for a strong run at the NCS. Their non-league results include a 1-0 win against three-

time defending NCS champion De La Salle of Concord. Team captains Christian Pedraza, Josh Gomez, and Clayton’s Sam Marchant are amongst an experienced and tested core. Coach Gentry’s expectations for the year are to win a consecutive third DVAL league title and to win NCS. With an early league loss to

Ygnacio Valley, Gentry says “our plan to three-peat is going to take beating YV when we play the second time and to hopefully win all remaining league matches.” In addition to Ygnacio, he sees Concord and College Park as being formidable. The Eagles bounced back to trounce Berean 9-0 in their second league game on Jan. 3.

CV BOYS SOCCER VARSITY TEAM: Front row: Lucas Arriaga, Moises Torres, Edgar Chavez, Scott O’Sullivan, Jerry Cruz, Christian Pedraza (Captain); Middle row: Coach Loran Davis, Yojay Basulto, Alex Shimberg, Austin Gamm, Ben Hardy, Zach Jacobson, Dominic Ramirez, Mateo Palacios, Brinley Owen, Jorge Esquivel, Coach Rory Gentry; Back row: Larry Rodriguez, Sammy Marchant (Captain), Ryan Phillips, Edgar Romero, Alex Dudoroff, Kevin Magana, Adolfo Martinez, Josh Gomez (Captain)

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Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 13, 2012

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JAN. 18 FOR THE JAN. 27 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

IN CLAYTON Jan. 23 Civil Grand Jury

Jan. 19 Fresh & Easy

Linda Pinder, juror, presents information about the Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury. Sponsored by the American Association of University Women. 7:30 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Free. Open to the public. 672-7815.

Organized by Mt. Diablo Elementary Parent Faculty Club. Every purchase earns 5%. Parents on hand to answer questions. 4 – 8 p.m. Located at 5410 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord.

EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Thru Jan. 15 Nunset Boulevard The Nuns are back at Willows Theatre in the “Nunsense Hollywood Bowl Show.” 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $17-$32. willowstheatre.org, 798-1300.

Jan. 13 thru Feb. 10 “Rent” Rock opera about a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create. 8 p.m. Las Lomas High School Theatre, 1460 S. Main St., Walnut Creek. $14-$17. diablotheatre.org. 324-7359.

Est.1972

Smith & Bernal

Jan. 14, Feb. 18, Mar. 17, Apr. 21 Help for Distressed Mortgage Holders

Roofing

Series of community workshops sponsored by volunteer experts and experienced homeowners. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Salvation Army, 3950 Clayton Road, Concord. Free. Register at realhelp.eventbrite.com. neighborshelpingneighbors.biz for more information.

Tile repairs Reroof Ventilation Gutter Cleaning Inspections Bird abatement

Free Roof Check-up (925) 672 0138 Clayton resident

Jan. 20, 21 Ballet Winter Program Company C Contemporary Ballet’s 10th Anniversary season opener bursts with versatility, wit and romance. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $23-$45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 20 thru Feb. 5 “Frankie and Johnnie in the Clair de Lune” This bittersweet comedy combines poignancy and laughter as it traces an unlikely romance. Diablo Actors’ Ensemble, 1345 Locust St., Walnut Creek. $15-$25. diabloactors.com.

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Joshua Roman plays Elgar’s Cello Concerto. 4 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $39-$69. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 27-29 “The Gondoliers” Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta involving a pair of handsome Venetian gondola oarsmen and a mix up of identities at birth. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $48-$63. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 30 thru Mar. 3 “A Light in the Piazza” Romance and intrigue in Italy during the summer of 1953. Willows Theatre, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. willowstheatre.org, 798-1300.

folk music’s renaissance man, master instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, storyteller, activist and author

Organized by Mt. Diablo Elementary Parent Faculty Club. Fliers available in school office. Bring flier and Dickey’s donates 15%. Dine in or take out. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Located at 5434 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord. 689-5525.

Feb. 4 Crab Feed Knights of Columbus #6038. All you can eat. Raffle. 6 p.m. St. Bonaventure Large Hall, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. $38. Reservations required. Pat Deplazes 685-0573 or Bob Maluccelli 6740920.

AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. 673-0659 or claytonlibrary.org.

Wednesdays Book Buddies Jan. 10 thru Mar. 6 Patty Cakes

Story time for three- to five-year-olds. May attend without caregiver. Drop in at 11 a.m.

Jan. 14 SAT/ACT Practice Test

Jan. 27, 28 “Snoopy”

A charming tale of romance going awry. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $38-$43. centerrep.org. 943-7469.

McCutcheon

Jan. 23 Dickey’s Barbeque

Jan. 12 thru Mar. 8 Picture Book Time

Jan. 27 thru Feb. 25 “Arms and the Man”

John

Pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee and juice. Sponsored by Knights of Columbus #6038. 7:30 – 9 a.m. St. Bonaventure Large Hall, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. $4 per person, $15 for family of four, $3 seniors.

Jan. 22 The Romance of the Cello

World premiere of Brian Copeland’s new solo play about his personal struggle with depression. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Competitive Show Team

Jan. 22 Pancake Breakfast.

Story time for babies to three-year-olds. Attend with caregiver. Drop in at 11 a.m.

Jan. 27, 28 “The Waiting Period”

Horsemanship Full-Service Training

3 p.m. Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association, 1600 Trail Ride Rd., Clayton. $15 per child under 5 or for pasta only; $45 for full menu. Reservations required. 672-3978.

Broadway star David Burnham performs a mixture of songs. Willows Theatre, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $30. willowstheatre.org, 7981300.

Civic Arts Education’s Youth Theatre Company performs a musical about Snoopy. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $14$16.50. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Western & English For all Levels of Rider

Jan. 21 Crab Feed

A volunteer will read stories for children of all ages. 1-2 p.m.

Jan. 21, 22 Mostly Broadway

Offering All-Season

FUNDRAISERS

CHURCHES AND RELIGION Jan. 20 Concert Multiple Grammy nominee John McCutcheon performs. 8 p.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $20-$25. brownpapertickets.com.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Register with the library. Follow up session Jan. 23, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 18 Emergency Preparedness Training 7 – 9 p.m. Community Room. Learn what to have on hand when disaster strikes. Taught by Clayton Community Emergency Response Team. claytoncert.org

Jan. 31, Feb. 7, Feb. 14, Feb. 21, Feb. 28, Mar. 6 Paws to Read Grades 1 through 5. Read aloud to a dog to encourage children to read. Maximum three sessions. Registration required. 4:30 p.m.

SCHOOLS Jan. 20 Kindergarten Registration Mt. Diablo Elementary School will have kindergarten registration packets in the office. Orientation: Feb. 7, 7 p.m. Parents only. Registration: Feb. 7, 9 – 11 a.m. and 1 – 3 p.m. First come, first served. Child must be 5 years old on or before Nov. 1, 2012.

GOVERNMENT 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

2nd and 4th Tuesdays ***Jan. 10 CANCELED*** Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

Jan. 20 at 8 p.m. $20 in advance at brownpapertickets.com or $25 a the door

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January 13, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 13

Frustrated pet owners: chew on this Dogs chew, no doubt about it. It starts when they are teething, when they chew to alleviate the discomfort. Habits form, and they continue chewing. Chewing is also an evolutionary “habit.” Back before humans provided regular bowls of food, dogs were often scavengers. Bones were an important source of nutrients for them. However, toys and shoes aren’t considered very nutritious. While pet owners understand why their dog may chew, it is still frustrating when Fido takes a bite out of toys, furniture or footwear. The solution is actually pretty simple, especially if your dog is a puppy. I have helped people, whose houses were being destroyed by their dogs while they were at work. And, I started them the same way that I have started my new puppy-guardian clients. It starts with a dog crate. I know that to some of you this sounds cruel. I used to think that way, myself. However, countless dogs have no issues with being in a crate. It’s really no different than putting a baby in a crib with sides, or a toddler in a playpen. It’s simply a way to keep your dog safe and out of trouble until it learns the household rules. And, if your dog is in its crate, it can’t chew on anything that isn’t in there with it. Don’t worry, your dog won’t be in its crate for the rest of its life. The crate is just a teaching tool. In the past, wild puppies would hang out in the cave while the adults were out looking for food. Within these confined spaces, they sniffed around and found old bones and sticks to chew on. So, put the things that you want your dog to chew on in

SUE SKIFF

PET PALS the crate. When your dog gets the urge to chew, it will sniff around, and find appropriate things to chew on. Keep doing this for sev-

eral weeks, and your dog will develop the habit of chewing on the appropriate items instead of your couch. But it doesn’t quite end there. When you first stop giving your dog more freedom, keep it close to you, and provide lots of familiar, appropriate items to chew on, to make sure your dog remembers. Of course, turning around an older dog with an established inappropriate chewing habit can be more complicated. Not only does it have a habit that needs to be turned around, but it may be hard to get it to accept a crate.

Not to worry. The advice that I’ve given can’t hurt, and if you really need help, consult your local dog behaviorist for further guidance. You now have the knowledge to get your dog started chewing in a way that will keep you both happy for years to come. Good luck! Sue Skiff is the author of “How to Have a Well-Behaved Dog,” and the owner/operator of Silver Lining Pet Services, a company which provides dog training and pet sitting services. Learn more at www.silverliningdogtrain.com or www.silverliningpetsitting.com. Email her at information@silverliningdogtrain.com.

Boysenberry and Garrison are ARF’s adoption Stars Boysenberry is a silly goofball who will keep his new family in stitches! He loves to play with his toys but likes treats even better! This smartie is a quick learner and enjoys training and learning new tricks for cookies. He likes going out for

walks and is easy on-leash. As with any newly adopted dog, Boysenberry will benefit from attending an ARF U Basic Manners class. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60% off one 7-week dog training session. Garrison is a very loving Maine Coon/Tabby mix who may be a tad shy at first, but is easily reassured by your soft words and petting. He will be a wonderful companion. He is missing a front tooth causing his lip to curl which makes him look a bit like Elvis! The adoption fee for adult cats is $50.

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Dry December may mean water worries later on WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS Most Clayton residents are not complaining about the number of sunny warm days we’ve experienced over the last few months. However, the lack of rainfall this winter season is starting to get a lot of attention. Californians measure yearly rainfall using a water year that begins in July and ends the next June. This is due to our Mediterranean-type climate which features a dry summer season and wet winter season. So far, water year 2011-2012 seems extremely dry. To quantify how dry it has been in our area, it is essential to have a long record of rainfall statistics. Fortunately, the downtown San Francisco weather station has a complete record of daily rainfall data that extends back to 1849, giving us 163 years of data to review – far more than any other Bay Area weather station. While it is true that San Francisco station

may record different amounts of rain compared to the Clayton area during any particular storm, statistical analysis of monthly and seasonal San Francisco data should be quite representative of the entire Bay Area. What does the San Francisco rainfall data show? Last month, December 2011, was the thirddriest in San Francisco history with just 14-hundredths of an inch of rain measured. This represents quite a change from the previous year when nearly seven inches of rain fell in December. Data from the first six months of the current water year also paint a relatively dry picture. The total July to December rainfall total at San Francisco was 3.26 inches in 2011, ranking as 14th driest first six months of the water year in 163 years. The dry winter conditions are having a dramatic impact in the Sierra Mountains. The first snow survey of the season was completed in early January. In the central Sierra snowpack was measured at just 13 percent of the seasonal normal to date, with less than 10 percent measured in the southern Sierra. This does not

bode well for the ski resorts. State water managers are beginning to get nervous, even though the previous two winters were wetter than normal. What is expected to happen during the remainder of this winter season? We can attempt to answer that question using both statistical and modeling approaches. If we look at the driest 25 first six months of the winter season at San Francisco, only four of those water years ended up with above-normal rainfall, and two of those years had extremely wet Januarys. Since the first half of January looks very dry, statistically it seems unlikely that we will reach normal by the end of the season. Forecast models are not encouraging either. Wetter than normal conditions are currently forecast for the last half of this month, but longer range climate models indicate greater than normal chances for drier than normal weather for the remainder of the winter. Even if we get average rainfall for the months January through June, the winter season percentage of normal will only be 77 percent. If we only get half the nor-

mal rainfall during the last six months of this water year, the seasonal percentage of normal drops to 46 percent, which would rank winter season 2011-2012 as 14th driest in the 163 years of record. Let’s hope that we can soon dust off our umbrellas and welcome the return of our regular winter weather. Like most people, I’ve enjoyed the recent months of sunshine and warm afternoon temperatures, but it feels strange to have to water the lawn and garden in January. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

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Thirsty Third Thursday @ PWM Healthy Cooking Ideas for the New Year Why not start the New Year off with a few healthy recipes for your home? Chef Greg Chew, a local culinary master and owner of Greg’s Kitchen, will be demonstrating some healthy cooking techniques. Then, we get to eat all the food! Free handouts and recipes to take home with you. Come join us for a fun evening of cooking, tasting and mingling with other incredibly interesting locals in our casual office setting.

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Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Diablo Estates’ new model opening follows brisk pre-model sales Toll Brothers’ newest Northern California community, Diablo Estates at Clayton, opens its new model home on January 21, after selling more than one third of its homes before the model was built. The first new home community built in Clayton in more than five years, Diablo Estates’ strong pre-model sales are a testament to this unique offering. Perched at the base of Mount Diablo State Park, Diablo Estates is made up of just 24 single-family homes, surrounded by sweeping views of San Pablo Bay and Mount Diablo. Home buyers have been drawn to the appealing blend of Toll Brothers quality with Clayton’s beauty, recreational opportunities, and small town atmosphere. Clayton was rated 83rd on “MONEY Magazine’s 100 Best Places to Live in 2011.” The new Oakhurst model is the first real look at Diablo Estates’ appealing addition to this charming community. The home’s dramatic covered entry porch and soaring two-story foyer with spiral staircase should capture the attention of new visitors

quickly, but the views outside may prove hard to resist. The spacious family room with welcoming fireplace features open views of the hills beyond, while the gourmet kitchen’s large central island, breakfast nook, and kitchen with grill provide space to relax and entertain inside or out. Four bedrooms include an impressive master suite and master bath with glass enclosed shower, dual vanities and walk-in closet. The home’s 4,081 square feet includes three and a half baths, a private library and a three-car tandem garage. “We’re looking forward to sharing this first glimpse of the level of quality and luxury that

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Diablo Estates introduces to Clayton,” says Victoria Kimble, community sales manager. “The difference is evident in the popularity of the community so far, with a third of our homes sold before the model was ever built.” Diablo Estates’ single- and two-story homes range from 3,000 to 4,200 square feet and three to five bedrooms. Pricing begins in the mid-$700,000s. For information call (925) 524-0400 or visit TollBrothers.com The homes are located on the site of the old Claretian Seminary on Rialto Drive. To visit the model, take Marsh Creek east, turn right on Regency Drive and left on Rialto. Toll Brothers is the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes. The Company operates in 20 states and was ranked #1 in 2011 and 2010 in Financial Soundness, Long-term Investment, and Quality of Product/Services in FORTUNE magazine‘s annual World’s Most Admired Companies survey in the home building category. The Company is also honored to have won the three most coveted awards in the home building industry: America’s Best Builder, the National Housing Quality Award, and National Builder of the Year.

THE

BOOKS

It seems impossible that it was 44 years ago that Robert Kennedy was assassinated in the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles after winning the California democratic primary. It seems impossible too, that in that in a decade of churning social change, there also existed so much hope. What David Rowell manages to capture in his premier novel, “The Train of Small Mercies,” is a snapshot of those times in America, that now seem as foreign as Mars. “The Train of Small Mercies” is a collection of stories connected by the event of Kennedy’s assassination, but moreover, they occur in places that will observe the train transporting the fallen hero’s casket from New York to Washington, DC. As a novel, the narrative arc of “The Train of Small Mercies” takes place on the day that the funeral train will traverse communities from New York to DC, and it is a reminder that we are all connected despite apparent separations. There is Maeve McDerdon, the Irish girl staying over in Washington, DC, who was to have been interviewed by the Kennedys for the position of nanny for Ethel Kennedy’s new

baby, but now has no clear idea of what she will do. There is awkward Edwin Rupp from Delaware, who has wanted nothing more in his timid life but to build a swimming pool in his backyard. On the day of the trains crossing his state, he and his wife, Lolly, are hosting friends at the inauguration of the gargantuan aboveground pool he has constructed, and in the process Edwin makes a tragic pass at his best friends’ girl. Lionel Chase, home from college for the summer, is navigating his first day as a porter on for the railway, and is assigned to the train carrying Robert Kennedy. Delores King is an oppressed housewife who escapes the watchful eye of her husband to watch the train pass by her Pennsylvania town, much to Arch King’s disapproval. Sadly, Delores misses the spectacle of the train and ends up in the ER instead, with her young daughter in a near-coma. Young Michael Colvert is with a group of his pals, scouting the trees in an empty field for the best viewing position. Michael is doing is best to focus on the train and forget about the month he and his father spent camping out and fishing in Michigan in what turned out to be a kidnapping, and ended with his father’s arrest. Finally, there is Jamie West, an angry Vietnam veteran who returned home to Maryland

Mayor, from page 1 ended our year with the Clayton Counts Down New Year’s Eve family celebration. Our relationship with All Out Sports League has been extended for another year to develop and operate our community recreation programs at the Clayton Community Gym. AOSL now offers programs such as coed softball, youth and adult volleyball and other get active options. The gym seems to have become a center point of our community. Check out their recreation programs at www.alloutsportsleagueclayton.com. For the last year we have been under the threat of losing our Redevelopment Agency, which supports projects that improve our city. The shoe finally dropped and the Supreme Court now sided with the state that it can close down redevelopment agencies statewide. Since our Clayton Redevelopment Agency brought

many worthwhile improvements to Clayton, it is only fitting for a brief eulogy to honor and mourn this loss. It was funds from our RDA that renovated Endeavor Hall, paid our contribution for the Clayton Community Gym, paid for sewer lines to many of the older residential homes on septic tanks, built The Grove Park, helped fund the Concert in The Grove series, paid for our downtown bomanite sidewalks, built the City’s Corporation/Public Works Yard, paid for the preservation of the Keller Ranch House, built the new retaining wall on old Marsh Creek Road, constructed our City Hall and expanded the Endeavor Hall parking, just to name a few. Although the court has made its decision, the ink has not dried on its ramifications. I am sure that I will have more to report on how this will affect our financial bottom line and future community

missing part of his leg who doesn’t care much about anything, especially a dead politician speeding by the family home on a trip to the grave. What is wrenching about each of the stories is how involved everyone is in the story of Robert Kennedy’s promise,

and the violent ending of his life. To every character in “Small Mercies,” Kennedy’s passing is a deeply personal matter. “The Train of Small Mercies” contains an ensemble cast of seeming misfits, but they all have a place in this story. They are ordinary people living their quiet lives and in their own way are touched by this massive historical event in a way that no one really quite comprehends. Cynthia Gregory writes book reviews, award-winning short stories and a blog. Visit her at www.twogirlstakeonlove.com or write cgregory111@gmail.com

improvement projects. My personal take is that RDAs did benefit local communities, created jobs and helped to improve the overall economy. On a positive note, Clayton once again held a respectable spot on Money Magazine’s “Best 100 Places to Live in America” for small cities for the third year running. We came in as No. 83 moving up from No. 87 in 2009. New Year’s resolutions have been made and gym memberships are on the rise. But the secret of feeling good is to “Do The Right Thing.” Remember two things that you can give that you will never use up, will not cost you a dime, but make others feel good: a smile and a hug! My New Year’s resolution is to shop Clayton first and when possible buy American grown or manufactured products. I believe this can make a difference. E-Mail questions or comments to: Councilmangeller@aol.com

January 13, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Theatre

Willows to present a “Wicked” one-man show Broadway star David Burnham returns to Concord GARY CARR Special to the Pioneer

When David Burnham performed for the gala reopening of the Willows Theatre in Concord last year, he sold out the house. Now the Broadway star of “Wicked” and “The Light in the Piazza” returns for two more concerts, January 21 and 22, and his fans are already clamoring for tickets. The Willows Theatre Company, in conjunction with Esses Productions, presents David Burn-

ham in concert for two shows, at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22, at the Willows Theatre, 1975 Diamond Boulevard in Concord. In his new one-man show “Mostly Broadway,” Burnham

performs a string of winning songs from many of his celebrated roles, as well as favorite Broadway standards and selections from his newest CD recording, One Day. Those lucky enough to hear him last year were thrilled with his powerful voice and engaging stage personality. Burnham created the role of “Fiyero” in the original Los Angeles workshop production of the Tony Award-nominated musical “Wicked,” and went on to perform the role on Broadway. A member of the original Broadway cast of the 6-time Tony Award winning musical “The Light in the Piazza,” he subsequently won the prestigious Helen Hayes Award and Garland Award as Best Actor

for his portrayal of Fabrizio Nacarelli in the National Tour. Tickets for the Burnham concerts are $30, available by calling at 925-798-1300. They are also available online at www.willowstheatre.org Coincidentally, the next show at The Willows in Concord is “The Light in the Piazza,” and Burnham said he is impressed by the cast currently rehearsing under director Eric Inman, with musical direction by Kim Vetterli. It’s the story of a woman and her challenged daughter traveling in Italy, where romance envelops the younger woman who struggles to cope with new but not unwishedfor feelings. The show runs Feb. 1 through March 3.

Page 15

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pant with either a slightly-flared or new wider leg. Stick with nonstretch fabrics in dark colors and wear brighter colors on top to draw the eye away from your lessthan-perfect areas. A wide neckline will balance wide hips. If a thick waist is your problem, look for a pant that hits at the natural waist or below. If you’re fighting a tummy bulge, avoid pleats and wear a blazer. The jacket should fit snugly when buttoned and not be boxy or oversized, which can make you look bigger. To instantly shrink a size, try a thigh-grazing ruffle-edge cardigan which will float over your flaws. Think about your

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accessories. A higher heel and a pointy toe can result in a slimmer appearance. Large rings will make your fingers seem dainty (seriously), and big chunky bracelets will make your arms look thinner. A notice-me necklace guides the eye up and away from any problem area. Choose the right size bag; not too large but not too small – a small bag will make you look big. By all means, try to avoid shapeless clothing. No one is fooled, and loose clothes often make you appear heavier. Best of luck in achieving your goal, and remember: Live long and pester! Judith Marshall is a former professional model and author of “Husbands May Come and Go but Friends are Forever.” Send comments to Judith.Marshall@att.net.

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Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 13, 2012

No sleep for these winter blooms During the month of January garden lovers long for color in their landscape and gardens. They days seem a little longer, and with every day that the sun shines, the craving for flowers seems to grow. You may think this time of year the entire garden is resting, but that isn’t the case. Several plants wait until winter to bloom. Camellia sasanqua are a group of early blooming evergreen shrubs, which bloom from December through February. Their growth is irregular and sprawling, making them an excellent selection for a part shade slope or hillside. This type of camellia has a smaller leaf than the uprights that you may be used to seeing. Camellia sasanquas are eas-

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL ier to keep green, require a touch less fertilizer, and will tolerate more sun then their cousins. You should expect your Camellia sasanqua to grow 5 to 6-feet tall and wide, so allow room. When installing, you will need to add cottonseed meal to your

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planting mix to bring up the acid level. Camellias are acid lovers, and will need to be fed throughout the growing season accordingly. Tending to a camellia should be as easy as caring for a rose. You’ll find Camellia sasanqua in many colors and petal shapes. Light and dark double to semi-double pinks are among the most popular. Yuletide is a highly sought after red variety with a single row of petals. White blooming camellias may sound desirable, yet their blossom browns as it fades, and the white petal color makes this transition very obvious. Hardenbergia is the earliest blooming vine for our Clayton Valley area. This evergreen vine can wrap and twin itself over pergolas, along fences and through-

out lattice. Dark, matte green basil shaped leaves remain quiet throughout the entire growing season. It is January and February when the Hardenbergia or Vine Lilac comes to life. The bloom is profuse. Lilac purple sweetpea shaped flowers line in rows, creating finger shaped clusters, resembling the very popular lilac. When this vine comes into bloom you know that spring is near. Our Clayton Post Office boasts a stunning fence full of Hardenbergia. Drive past this winter and see it in all its glory. If you aren’t a purple person, occasionally you may find a pink, or even a white selection of Hardenbergia. Vines are smart, and they will need maintenance. If you plant a vine, and don’t give it anything to cling to, or wrap on to,

it will hardly grow. All vines need to be fed, almost monthly with a balanced fertilizer, especially during the first five years. Once established, they seem to become more self-sufficient. Helleborus is another family of January bloomers. This evergreen is a shade loving plant that is so hardy and fabulous that we should call it a small sized shrub instead. Helleborus have palmate shaped leaves, which sometimes have finely fringed edges. They bloom January through April, and sometimes longer, depending on the type of spring we are having. Flowers are available in white, pinks, soft yellows and burgundy. If you leave the flower heads on this plant, they will swell into seeds and spread nicely along the

ground. Helleborus are costly plants, so the babies are welcomed. Blooming in the landscape or garden year round is possible if you know what to buy and when. Visit nurseries all year long. Introduce plants to the landscape just as often. February will not be short on flowers either, aside from your January bloomers still showing off, you can look forward to Daphne, Cilivia lilies, and Iberis beginning to bloom. Blooms all year make for a great garden. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden and the 2011 Clayton Valley Garden Club president. Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

Learn to pat yourself on the back in 2012 Everyone likes a pat on the back every once in a while. And there’s no better time to get one than when you’re out of your comfort zone, challenging yourself to improve, nervous about whether you can succeed. Most people approach changing their health habits from a position of “pain.” They constantly nag themselves, berate themselves and expect nothing but perfection, no matter how much progress is made. Tools of the trade are guilt, doubt, shame and self-flogging. Instead of celebrating the 24 pounds they’ve lost, they see the six they still haven’t lost. Sound familiar? To people used to beating themselves up, it may seem like the best way to get motivated. But consider this: if you attempted to motivate an employee like that, how long do you think they’d stick around? How successful

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tal honesty are often good for getting your butt moving, for sustained motivation, the positive approach will keep you from burning out. Remember that rewards create a feeling of doing something you want to do, not just what you’re forcing yourself to do. Even the smallest of rewards can work wonders as you travel from milestone to milestone, pound to pound, and mile to mile. Don’t use food as a reward. Even good food. Be honest with yourself. Fudging the numbers mentally, or “borrowing” against the next reward hurts the cause of building a lifetime habit. Keep your focus on building a habit, not just figuring out how to best get the reward. Need a reward rooster? Here are a few suggestions: Compliment yourself. Write

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would they be? Why not do it differently this time? Try to approach your goals from a position of “possibilities” instead. Find ways to use regular rewards to pat yourself on the back and give a word of encouragement. Instead of focusing on what you do wrong, try paying more attention to what you do right. While straight talk and bru-

down what you would say to anyone else who accomplished what you did. Create a plaque or trophy. Take a vacation or weekend getaway. Take a day off from any goal activities. Put $1 in a jar every time you meet a goal. When it gets to $50, treat yourself. Go for a spa treatment. Buy yourself a gift certificate. Take a limo ride. Find time to be by yourself. Pay someone to do yard work or house cleaning this week. Fly a kite. You’ll find that best results come with compassion and encouragement – and a few rewards thrown in. Ilima Heuerman holds multiple fitness certifications. She trains at Levity Fitness studio in Clayton. Email Ilima at IlimaHeuerman@levityfitness.com

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