Thur
sday
IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
N
ight Conc July 12 . . er ts! . . .Th July e 26 . . . . . .C Relyks rossm an Augu Coun st 9 . t ry . . .Ja Augu m Dadd st 23 y . . . .T he PH In the ds 6:00
Gr to 8:3 ove 0 p.m
.925.672.0500
June 29, 2012
Kristian, Kara bound for Olympics JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
A small town tucked in the shadow of Mt. Diablo Clayton stood tall last Friday when a native son and daughter each earned a berth on the United States Olympic team that to compete next month in London. And the selections of Kristian Ipsen in diving and Kara Kohler in rowing took place 2400 miles apart, neither very close to their hometown. Last Friday morning Kohler, at the final training sessions for the American national team in Princeton, NJ, was selected for the women’s quadruple sculls boat in London, unseating a member of the team that won the 2011 World Rowing Championships silver medal. That evening Ipsen and his partner, now four-time Olympian Troy Dumais, won the only berth for the USA in men’s three-meter synchro diving at the Olympic Trials near Seattle in Federal Way, WA.
Enter the Pioneer
July 4 Photo Contest and win cash prizes. See page 3 for details
Kohler will join Adrienne Martelli, Megan Kalmoe and Natalie Dell in the quad. Kalmoe, who finished fifth in
the double sculls at the Beijing Olympics, won silver in the quad with Martelli and Dell at last year’s World Rowing Cham-
Photo courtesy Allison Frederick/USRowing
IT CAME DOWN TO THE FINAL TWO DAYS of selections but Clayton’s Kara Kohler (second from left) proved her worth and earned a berth on the United States Olympic rowing team in the women’s quad. Kohler joined three rowers who earned the silver medal at the 2011 world championships in the event by her strong showings this summer and in the final two days of “seat racing” when nine women were going for the four spots in the American boat.
DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer
Everyone remembers the teacher who made a difference in their lives. For David Linzey, the new executive director of Clayton Valley Charter High School, it was Mr. Ryder in sixth grade. The second youngest child in a family with 10 kids, Linzey often got lost in the mix. But
City of Clayton Budget 2012-13
MAYOR’S CORNER
Patriotism is front and center for 4th of July parade Clayton will once again be transformed into that “Norman Rockwell community” we all love when we celebrate Independence Day. Our Fourth of July Parade committee, composed of city officials and other volunteers, has worked hard organizing, seeking donations and rounding up volunteers to make this year’s celebration a memorable one. We still need parade volunteers. If you plan to be at the
See Mayor, page 14
not be contested in London) in Bled. The favored Ipsen and Dumais had a less-than-satisfy-
ing first day in 3M synchro, an event they have dominated
See Olympians, page 8
Photo courtesy of Ipsen family
CLAYTON WAS WELL REPRESENTED at the US Olympic Diving Trials last week at Federal Way, Washington as local lad Kristian Ipsen earned a berth on the American Olympic team going to London next month. Celebrating the selection for Team Ipsen in Washington were, from left, maternal grandparents Joe and Rene Cleary, mom Yvette Ipsen, Kristian Ipsen, sister Lauren Ipsen, dad Kent Ipsen and paternal grandparents Linda and Skip Ipsen.
Charter school leader guides with a caring hand with Ryder, it was different. “(He) recognized my talent and really focused on that,” said Linzey. “He believed in me, told me I needed to go to college, just said really nice things, got my self-confidence, my selfesteem up.” Not surprisingly, Linzey thinks caring teacher-student relationships are at the heart of a school’s success. “I believe No. 1, first and
Clayton Council approves budget with $200,000 gap HOWARD GELLER
pionships in Bled, Slovenia. Kohler was a member of the American gold medal-winning women’s four (an event that will
General Fund Operating Budget 2012-13
General Fund CIP $3,670,702 $2,237,307
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . .15
the basics for school success transcend size and socio-economics. In an article published in Education Week in 2010, he outlined his work improving Los Angeles high schools in “less affluent sections of the city,” where the student populations were 100 percent minorities, many from disadvantaged
See Linzey, page 8
Community Church considers new site for worship center TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Other Funds $4,881,991
Last week, the City Council approved a 2012-13 budget that falls $200K short of balanced. Continually declining property tax revenues, the Redevelopment Agency bloodbath in February, cumulative state takeaways and a decade of slow to non-existent growth have now sent general fund revenues below what they were in 2002. A
N u e vo ’s Nuview U n i o n School District, whose entire student body roughly equals the DAVID LINZEY number of students at Clayton Valley Charter High School. He has come to believe
Approval may be easier than in downtown
Successor Agency $1,083,794
Total: $11,873,794
foremost, all students can learn and can achieve,” he said. “We have zero tolerance for drugs, zero tolerance for bullying, zero tolerance for harassment. But we should also have zero tolerance for failure, for lack of learning.” Linzey’s work experiences ranges from working with charter schools in the massive Los Angeles School District to serving as superintendent of
long, confusing list of “trailer” bills to the state budget threaten to further squeeze blood from the city’s turnip. “This is the ‘dawning of the Age of Austerity’,” said City Manager Gary Napper in his budget message to the Council. Despite the current
Clayton Community Church (CCC) has made an offer on 4.5 acres on Pine Hollow Court adjacent to Mt. Diablo Elementary School. The church wants to build the facility originally planned for downtown Clayton. The offer is contingent on the church selling its Main Street property and obtaining financing and all approvals and permits by December, says pastor Shawn Robinson.
See Budget, page 6
See Church, page 9
Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Community Calendar . . . . . .14 Design Diva . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5
DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . .13 Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . . .8 Food for Thought . . . . . . . . .16 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . . . .17
Total: $3,670,702
CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH HAS PUT IN AN OFFER on 4.5 acres of the old Frank family ranch on Pine Hollow Court where this barn was built 91 years ago. The church is hoping to sell their downtown land in favor of building outside the Town Center.
Letter to the Editor . . . . . . . . .5 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .15 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Safety Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sports Shorts . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 The Charter Papers . . . . . . .13
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 29, 2012
Around Town Capella, Minorsky receive CBCA scholarships
City honors courageous kids in DTRT program Every chair was filled and it was standing room only at the city council meeting last week when 18 outstanding students from all three Clayton schools were recognized for their “Courage” to always Do The Right Thing. The students were nominated by their teachers for the awards which were presented by Mayor Howard Geller. The DTRT program is a community wide character building initiative that has caught fire with teachers, the police and civic leaders. “It’s great to be able to tell what these kids are doing right,” said Geller. “So many times, we only hear what kids are doing wrong.” To call the awards portion of the meeting to order, Geller turned to MDES student Jimmy Albert, who was serving as Mayor for a Day. Jimmy’s parents were the highest bidder at the MDES PFC auction for the honor, which included a gavel
MDES STUDENT JAMES ALBERT served as honorary mayor for the recognitions.
CVHS STUDENTS RECOGNIZED BY THE CITY FOR THEIR EXCEPTIONAL COURAGE are Ben Linzey, Gillian Rush, Craig Ihle and Sunny Shergill. Not pictured, Gillian Reimann.
with his name on it and a special day. June 19, 2012 was James Albert Day in Clayton. The Do The Right Thing program emphasizes six character traits throughout the year – Integrity, Responsibility, Kindness, Self-discipline, Respect and Courage. The traits rotate throughout the school year. At the end of each rotation, students from each school are honored for exemplifying that trait. From Mt. Diablo Elementary, Brendan O’Reilly and Josie Sullivan were honored by Principal Irene Keenan. “Brendan’s teacher told me that if anyone in the school was going to grow up to be president, it would be
Brendan,” Mrs. Keenan said. Josie had been out of school for several months when she came into Mrs. Crane’s class. “Successfully tackling a rigorous program midway through the year took great courage,” Keenan noted. Twelve students from Diablo View Middle School were chosen by the eighth grade teachers to receive the school’s coveted Spirit Award. Caitlin Arango, Maris Degener, Drew Fagerlin, Anngail Grant, Annalise Houvinen, Daniel Jones, Claire Olson, Jason Ross, Joseph Tuano, Bana Twal, Anthony Vines and Curtis Oxman will all face their freshmen year in high school with
EIGHT OF THE 12 STUDENTS RECEIVING THE DVMS SPIRIT AWARD received recognition at the City Council meeting last week. Catlin Arrango, Maris Degener, Anngail Grant, Daniel Jones, Jason Ross, Joseph Tuano, Anthony Vines and Bana Twal
Clayton Classic Single Story Rancher in desirable Clayton neighborhood!
BRENDAN O’REILLY and Josie Sullivan both received certificates from the mayor.
great courage. CVHS recognized five students – Ben Linzey, Gillian Reimann, Craig Ihle, Sunny Shergill and Gillian Rush – for their courage in leading and mentoring other students.
Matthew Capella and Laura Minorsky were among 12 graduating seniors honored with scholarships by the CBCA this year. Matthew, a De la Salle grad, is the son of Elizabeth and Raymond Capella. Matthew graduated with 4.15 GPA and was MATTHEW a member of CAPELLA the Speech and Debate Club and the National Honors Society. He will attend the University of California San Diego this fall and plans to major in aerospace engineering.
L a u r a graduated from CVHS with a 4.41 GPA where she was a member of the French Club and S e n i o r LAURA Women. She MINORSKY has been a volunteer at the Clayton library, active at St. Bonaventure’s Church as a camp counselor and youth group member and in Girl Scouts, achieving her Silver Award in 2010. Laura will attend the University of California Santa Cruz. She has not decided on a major but has a strong interest in history, French and education.
Weeknight concerts kick off to big crowd
ABOUT 800 CONCERT GOERS REVELED IN ROCK AT THE GROVE during the first Thursday night show, June 14, with a performance by local band Five by Five. Kids filled water balloons and leapt for joy through the water spray play area celebrating the last day of school while parents sang along to a range of old favorites from Pat Benatar to Journey.
1561 Talisman Way, Concord Rose Glen! Single Story Rancher on a large corner lot!
GEORGE VUJNOVICH Broker Helping friends, neighbors & newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979
3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1804sf with inside laundry & 2 car garage. Sunny family room off kitchen and separate living room with fireplace. Master with walk-in closet. Large lot with endless possibilities! Coming Soon
3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1857sf & 2 car garage. Close to shopping and dining! New interior paint & flooring. Hardwood floors in bedrooms and living room. Open floor plan features a family room with brick fireplace. Huge back yard with lots of trees & covered patio! $344,900
31 Mt. Teton Court , Clayton
31 Ava Lane, Pleasant Hill
Dana Hills! Coming Soon! Single Story Rancher tucked away on a quiet court!
Sensational Custom Single Story Craftsman on a Park-like level .58 acre lot!
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated. Better Homes DRE#00933393
P EN DI NG
4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1919sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage! Great location near greenbelt and close to pool and cabana. Large lot with in-ground pool! $459,900
207 Rainbow Lane, Pleasant Hill Desirable Oak Park Area! Adorable House in a serene creek side setting!
PENDING
(925)
672-4433
6160 Center St., Suite E, Clayton
Located in a small subdivision of 5 custom homes built in 2007! 3 bedrooms plus a den, 2.5 baths, 2 fireplaces, approx. 2876sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Gourmet kitchen boasts slab granite & stainless steel appliances. Spacious family room with fireplace. Formal living & dining rooms. Huge Master Suite! Gorgeous grounds offer utmost privacy, rolling lawns, quaint patios, mature, vibrant landscape! A must see! $850,000
Jennifer Stojanovich Broker-Associate Lifelong Concord/Clayton Resident.
(925) 567-6170 jenstojanovich@yahoo.com Ranked Top 10 Agents for Better Homes Realty 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1563sf with a detached 2 car garage! Close to schools , shopping & BART! $464,900
georgevujnovich.com
www.jenniferstojanovich.com
Clayton Market Update provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS
PRICE
15 Donner Creek Ct.............$230,000 541 Hamburg Cir .................$481,000 703 Condor Place ................$262,500 765 Bloching Circle..............$599,000 3045 Windmill Canyon Dr....$525,000 11 Eagle Peak Place ...........$528,000 5869 4 Oaks Ln ...................$500,000 40 Mount Emory Ct..............$380,000 18 Barcelona Way ...............$475,000 101 Oak Court .....................$748,000 1124 Peacock Creek Dr.......$590,000 1100 Curry Canyon Rd ........$649,000 27 Long Creek Cir ...............$315,000
SF . . . .1457 . . . .2391 . . . .1252 . . . .2325 . . . .2053 . . . .2467 . . . .1649 . . . .1567 . . . .2324 . . . .3794 . . . .3307 . . . .3600 . . . .1457
BED/BATH
SALE DATE
. . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . .6/19/12 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .6/15/12 . . . . .2/2.5 . . . . . . .6/4/12 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . . .6/1/12 . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .5/31/12 . . . . .4/3 . . . . . . .5/31/12 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . .5/30/12 . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .5/25/12 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .5/25/12 . . . . .4/3.5 . . . . . .5/23/12 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .5/21/12 . . . . .9/5 . . . . . . .5/18/12 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . .5/16/12
June 29, 2012
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Around Town
Shutterbugs, grab your cameras and “go for the gold.”
Fishy story out of Trinity Lake
BOB RODENBURG
The Rodenburgs hung out a “gone fishin” sign on Rodie’s for two weeks earlier this month and headed north to Trinity Lake. “The fishing was great the whole two weeks,” said Sarah Rodenburg. Indeed, it was. Bob pulled in this 22” rainbow trout which landed on the grill that night.
Pioneer goes to Greece
Jack and Tracy Cooper visited the seat of western civilization in May on a two-week Mediterranean cruise with sons Matt, Dave and Nick. The Pioneer was also tucked away in the suitcase and here we are in Santorini. We visited cities France, Monaco, Greece, Turkey, Italy and Spain.
Page 3
This year, with two (count ‘em, two) Clayton athletes headed for the Olympics in London, the theme of the July 4 parade is appropriately, “Go for the Gold. Capture the spirit of the day and share your favorite images with the Pioneer readers. If you live in the Pioneer circulation area, enter the 10th annual Clayton Pioneer July 4 Photo Contest and win cash prizes. The
contest is open to all, adults (over 12) and kids (12 and under.) The winning photos will be published in the July 13 issue of the Pioneer. Each individual may submit up to three photos, but only one can win a prize. Submit snapshot size prints (nothing bigger than 5” x 7”) AND a CD with hi-resolution files. Photos must have been taken during this year’s July 4 Celebration in downtown Clayton. On the back of each
photo, put your name, address, phone number, email address and whether you are entering as an adult or child. For kids, please include age. IMPORTANT: Drop off your prints AND the CD at the Clayton Pioneer office NO LATER THAN 5 p.m. THURSDAY, July 5. Please do not e-mail your entries. Photos will be judged on overall quality, composition and how well the image captures the spirit of the day.
Prizes: Adult, first $100, second $75, third $50. Kids, first $50, second $35, third $25.
Ingenuity – & cash – needed to keep BART on track Aging railcars, slashed budget hamper system NICCI SHIPSTEAD Clayton Pioneer
After 40 years of service to billions of Bay Area commuters, BART is truly the little engine that could. It is the economic heart that keeps the lifeblood of commerce (people) moving with the reliability and speed demanded today. After service shut down between Oakland and San Francisco on June 14 due to a fire that spread to BART property, crews worked quickly to repair damage. They restored service less than 14 hours after fire broke out at a senior housing construction site in West Oakland. Damaged track insulators, communications cables, electrical cables and other trackside equipment were repaired while service continued throughout the East Bay and between San Francisco and Peninsula stations.
s t r e c n o C he Gr T in
ove
Saturdays
6 to 8:30 p.m. At the Gazebo in The Grove July 7 LIVIN' IN THE USA — A CROSS-COUNTRY MUSIC TRIP: Fully themed and costumed “all hits” cover band. July 21 BUMP CITY: A Tribute to Tower of Power: 10-piece band their own kind of urban soul
With the oldest operating railcars in the nation and an aging core system, BART needs the ingenuity of the people behind the scenes to provide the “I think I can” attitude for this little train as it faces a mountain of continuing deep financial cuts.
Aug. 4 DIAMOND DAVE: Singer Dave Hosley has been entertaining East Bay audiences for over 20 years with the classics to the latest Hip Hop
TAKING A CLOSER LOOK AT
Aug. 18 ROLLING HEADS: Classic rock to new pop
SAFETY
After the 2007 Minnesota bridge collapse, focus on the shape of public transportation shifted from being generally ignored to working toward a “State of Good Repair” (SOGR). However, there is little pressure on Congress to agree to a long-term surface transportation bill that would fund transit moving forward. The pending legislation proposes a system to tally key assets so they can be brought up to SOGR. Several other proposals endorse prioritizing federal funding toward the dramatic SOGR needs of rail and other public transit systems estimated at nearly $25 billion in backlog costs and $9 billion to $11 billion annually going forward.
NEW PRICE!
PENDING in 5 Days!
$798,000 15715 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton Custom Ranch – 41 acre horse property w/ 4,125 s.f. home designed to capture Mt. Diablo views. Top notch upgrades, in-law unit w/separate entrance. Offers master suite, office, 2BD Jack & Jill plus huge kitchen.
4985 Murchio Drive, Concord Garaventa Oaks – 3BD/2BA with 1,697 s.f. on a flat lot backs to open space & park. Updated family room offers a fireplace. Kitchen has slab granite & newer cabinets. Perks include indoor laundry & finished garage.
BART EMPLOYEES ARE CREDITED with “brilliant ideas,” such as the Concord Maintenance Shop introduction of an overhaul model leading to climbing reliability of operable cars. With this “can do” attitude, even the oldest operating railcars in the nation are in a State of Good Repair, but future financial cuts and delays in Congress pose a formidable challenge.
BART supports more than 70 percent of its operating costs. With billions of state transit dollars cut over the last five years, there is no identifiable federal source to replenish the overextended Highway Trust Fund and eminent additional cuts. BART lost $100 million in state transit funding.
Sept. 1 LAURENT FOURGO & HIS COMBO: 7-piece band featuring jump, swing, dixieland and jazz from the 20s, 30s, 40s & 50s. Sept. 15 EAST BAY MUDD: 9-piece cover dance band with a powerful 4-piece horn section returning for their 4th year.
OVERHAULING AN AGING FLEET
According to the American Public Transportation Association, BART has the oldest fleet among large domestic transit agencies. Most of the 669 cars in the fleet have been running since BART launched in 1972.
Thursdays 6 to 8:30 p.m. July 12 . . . . . .The Relyks July 26 . . . . . . . .Crossman Country Aug. 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TBD Aug. 23 . . . . . . .The PHDs
See Bart, page 7
$629,000 5205 Myrtle Drive, Concord Ayers Ranch Horse Property – Nearly an acre w/arena, stalls, storage & sweeping views of Mt. Diablo & Clayton Valley! Enjoy 3BD/2BA expanded to 2,000 s.f. with a Florida room addition. Wonderful dining area.
0 Wanda Way, Martinez $249,000 Alhambra Valley – Level .69 acre parcel is located in an upscale area and offers panoramic views and lots of privacy. Building pad, utilities at street, ready to go - sewer, city water. Build your dream home!
Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else* *Statistics based on Clayton & Concord closed by sales volume (12/1/09 – 12/1/10). Data by Trendgraphix
4290 Morgan Territory Road, Clayton $398,000 5 Acre Lot – Dream big! 5 acre parcel offers panoramic views of Mt. Diablo & foothills. Build your estate near other upscale ranches. Horse or livestock, zoned A-2. Public utilities at street. Just minutes from downtown.
Clayton Resident & Broker Owner
1657 Countrywood Ct, Walnut Creek $429,500 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath townhouse is beautifully remodeled with updated kitchen & baths. Extra perks include 2 car garage, patio area & 5 minutes to BART.
Inge Yarborough, Realtor (925) 766-6896 IngeYarborough.withWRE.com
DRE#01122025
Foreclosure Avoidance & Short Sale Assistance Lynne offers FREE REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY CONSULT on these matters including tax & credit implications. Don’t wait another day – you need the right guide!
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 29, 2012
Community fair a reminder to be prepared PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer
The city of Concord proclaimed June 30 as Community Partners Day and Mayor Ron Leone will attend. It is the local Salvation Army’s first such event and Lueck hopes to make it an annual deal. Lueck pursued the idea after being inspired by an outreach program from the Salvation Army in Lodi. In Concord, 40 organizations will join the Salvation Army to share literature about their services, experiences and hold demonstrations. The Salvation Army Canteen that provided relief services after Hurricane Katrina will be there. The Concord Police Department’s new tactical vehicle, Mamba, will be onsite. Rotary’s
Every individual needs to have at least three days worth of food, water and other supplies ready in the event of a disaster. To increase awareness of emergency and other services as well as volunteer opportunities, the Salvation Army and other community organizations are holding a Community Partners Faire, Open House and Couch Potato Relay on June 30 in Concord. “We want to get as many people connected as possible,” says Rich Lueck, Salvation Army advisory board chairman and organizer.
FREE GAS Visit us at ClaytonValleyShell.com for more promotions
Disaster Aid USA members will set up a temporary shelter tents and display contents of a typical box of supplies that is distributed during deployments. Other partners include PG&E, Contra Costa County Animal Services, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, John Muir Health, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and Parks and Recreation. The Red Cross mobile unit will be taking blood donations. Admission is a can of food. For another can of food, visitors can donate electronic waste. Kids can play in the bounce house. Proceeds from hot dog sales benefit the children’s summer camp.
$ 10 with A/C Check $ 15 with Oil Change $ 15 with Smog Check
Clayton Valley Shell Full Service Auto Care
Complete Auto Repair foreign and domestic Free shuttle service for major repairs
Corner of Clayton Road & Kirker Pass Road
(925) 672-3900 *Offer good at Clayton Valley Shell only and may not be combined. Expire 7/12/2012. Must present coupon at time of work estimate.
Groups of three or more can register online for the Couch Potato Relay. Teams collect food and/or monetary donations. The team weighing in with the heaviest food collection wins a grand prize. The fair comes at a critical time, when holiday donations are long gone. “We are concerned that we won’t be able to help people arriving at our door through the summer,” Concord Corps Officer Major Clay Gardner says. “The Salvation Army has always relied on the generosity of local residents to help us do our work, and we are making a special plea at this time for support.” The Salvation Army programs run all year, including food boxes, tutoring, seniors programs, emergency disaster services, the canteen and church services. Rick Ernst, membership director of the Rotary Club of Concord, says the Salvation Army is more than “kettles at Christmas.” The three local Rotary Clubs are participating in the fair to “show support for an organization like the Salvation
FEEDING FIREFIGHTERS IS JUST ONE EMERGENCY SCENARIO where the Salvation Army Canteen provides relief. Canteen driver Peg Gardner says partners for the Faire are those who work with the Salvation Army “both in times of disaster and day-to-day.”
Army and it is an ideal showcase for what Rotary does.” Susan Pierce, business administrator for the Salvation Army, is excited to meet all of the people who “naturally partner with us and need our services. The more we partner, the more people we can reach.” Bo Morse with Rotary’s Disaster Aid USA reiterates that in a disaster, “you need to be prepared to not have any assistance
for 72 hours. It’s a matter of when it happens.” The Community Partners Faire and Open House is 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 30, at the Salvation Army, 3950 Clayton Road, Concord. Admission is a can of food per person. For more information, go to diablovalleycommunitypartners.com. For an appointment to donate blood with the Red Cross, call 800-7332767.
DVMS teacher sentenced to 9 years in San Quentin on multiple abuse charges Following a plea of guilty to numerous charges including unlawful sex with a minor and possession of child pornography, former Diablo View Middle School math and science teacher Andrew Cottrell was sentenced to 9 years in prison. The charges stemmed from his abuse of a student starting when she was 14 years old.
According to an article in the Contra Costa Times, the victim’s family wrote a letter that was read to the court by a victim’s rights advocate. The letter stated in part, “What this man did to our daughter is despicable … He targeted her, groomed her, brainwashed her and manipulated her beginning at the age of 12.” Cottrell will serve his sen-
LEIGH KLOCK
tence at San Quentin State Prison. Following his release, he will be prohibited from contact with the victim and required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. Deputy District Attorney, Chad Mahalich said “I think this was a very good disposition for the family. I think they seem satisfied.”
STEPHANIE LOPEZ
Realtor®, DRE#01874255
Realtor®, DRE#01370548
925.212.5593
925.932.7329
Clayton Home
3399 St Mary's Road
NEW NG LISTI
Experience Retirement Your Way! The Finest Community for Seniors 55+ Enjoy a private residence with a wealth of services and amenities at your fingertips all for one low monthly rate. Amenities & Services
2 outstanding meals served daily Weekly housekeeping & fresh linens Concierge style service Chauffeured transportation daily On-call 24-hour professional staffing
Full program of diverse recreational and cultural offerings Full service beauty salon Community gardens for green thumbs Library and computer center
Spacious 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments with Rent and Services INCLUDED
Rates a s as $1, low 787*
This is the lovely single level Clayton home you have been waiting for! Updated and fresh inside and out! Large bedrooms, formal living & dining rooms, family room. Approx .25 acre lot and great view of Mt. Diablo!.
www.995MaplegateCt.com
ing d n e P tiple Mul ers Off
Open House July 12 and 26
www.20Frost Court.com
ING
PEND
Luxurious upscale appointments & finishes in Crystyl Ranch stunner! Features 3,548 sf, 5bed/3bath, bonus master retreat, hardwood floors, slab granite, travertine, fabulous custom paint/murals, view balconies! Professionally landscaped yard backs up to open space!
www.588TimberleafCt.com
Amazing Pulte Home built in 2002! 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, with one bed and full bath on first floor. Sparkling pool, built in gas fire pit, pavers, lush lawn-an entertainer 's Delight! Offered at $685,000
www.5407WoodhollowCt.com
SOLD
SOLD Fabulous Rancho Paraiso Home with prime court location. 4 bed/3 bath with luxurious first floor master and spa bath, office, bonus room, gorgeous yards, patios, built-in spa, & much more! Offered at $1,025,000
6401 Center Street, Clayton CA 94517
Prime Lafayette location - downtown & 10++ schools just steps from your front door! 3 bedrooms 2 baths - gorgeous custom kitchen! Soaring plank ceilings & huge master suite! Offered at $760,000
Fabulous Crystal Ranch 5 bedroom 3 1/2 bath home with first floor bedroom and en suite. Granite, crown molding, plantation shutters, luxurious master retreat. Quiet court location & beautifully landscaped yard!! This is a 10++. Offered at $664,950
We have buyers! Call if you have a golf course or single level home!
I N S P I R E D R E A L E S TAT E
(925) 524-5100 # TTY 711 diamondterrace.irmmanagement.com
*Rents are usually $2,106. Income limits apply.
www.myDynamicRealtors.com
June 29, 2012
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Letter to the Editor TAMARA
AND
R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers
TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Nicci Shipstead, Pam Wiesendanger, Mike Dunn
We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse
PIONEER INFO CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send Church News to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com
Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com
CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word Non-profit: $24 for first 30 words, $.20 each additional word 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, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.
LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on our Website are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. 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.
Directory of Advertisers Auto
Kudos to MDES teachers P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517
Page 5
As a retired teacher, I have had the pleasure of being a substitute teacher at Mt. Diablo Elementary School for the last ten years. I wanted to take the time to complement the wonderful staff teaching staff at the school. I am impressed by their level of professionalism. When I substitute, I have seen this demonstrated by their preparation, organization and communication with students, parents and colleagues. Whenever I have been called on to take over a class, I knew exactly what was to be taught. All the materials were readily accessible. The students knew what was expected of them. If I had a question about anything, I knew I could easily get an answer. This level of support is demonstrated by the people who work in the areas of the school outside the classroom. Each person working at the school helps to create the outstanding climate that I have experienced. Teachers are facing ever increasing challenges and changes. While this certainly makes it difficult to maintain positive morale, I have never seen it affect the classroom. They are to be commended on a great job. - Margaret Powell
Clayton Auto Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-1000 Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Business Services Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . . .672-8717 Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Black Diamond Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .777-3440 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-1519 Cheyenne Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .566-8226 Copa Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-2202 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 Steffan Smith Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . .866-838-2923 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Memo’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0395 Ravioli’s Italian Market Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-3819 Subway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0621
“ Let Us Light Up Your Life” Residential
Commercial
Industrial
Serving Contra Costa since 1991 More than 35 years experience
All Work Done by Owner Bonded & Insured Lic.#C10-631523
Professional Installation of:
Ceiling Fans, Recessed & Track Lighting Kitchen or Bath Remodel Exterior/Security/Landscape Lighting Electrical Service Upgrade Complete Home Wiring - Old & New Spa Installation
Willows Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-1300 Events City of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .cityofclayton.org Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9090 Financial and Insurance Services Held, Chris - Morgan Stanley Smith Barney . . . .930-3815 King & Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-2565 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Prosperitas Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7700 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-877-8328
www.BurkinElectric.net
James Burkin Sole Proprietor
Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242
Classified FOR SALE Portable Massage Table – Living Earth Crafts, wood frame, adjustable height/length with face cradle, four-inch foam padding. Used twice. Paid $400, will sell for best offer. Call Ron 672-5734.
Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Pre-K to 6th grade. July 16 – 20. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. $20/child, $15 each additional sibling. Activities, snacks! 686-2000.
WANTED
Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Earth Blend Mulch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245
Come join Mazzei Realty! Currently interviewing and hiring new and experienced real estate agents. Call 693-0757 for details.
Optometry
Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today 6728787.
Pet Suites Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387
Foresight Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4100 Pet Services Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 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
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 hours per week. Drivers and relief drivers needed for delivery of Meals on Wheels in East County. Call Jim at 6730300 or hairbyjim@hotmail.com.
Laurence, Pete - RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt -Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness All Out Sports League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203-5626 Castle Rock Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .933-3701 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Kali Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276-0845 Schools Walnut Country Preschool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-9686 Senior Services Always Available Home Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6887
Hospice of the East Bay – Anna’s Attic Volunteer at Anna’s Attic Thrift Shoppe, located at 5350 Clayton Road. For information call 6749072. To learn more about volunteering for Hospice of the East Bay please contact 887-5678 or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org.
Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100
Clayton Historical Society Museum The Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter for two hours per month from 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays or Sundays and June through August from 6 – 8 p.m. Wednesdays or 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturdays. Call the museum at 672-0240 and leave your name.
Candles Make Scents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .405-7199
Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Minimum age 13. Minimum commitment is 6 months. Some training provided. Contact: Arlene at 673-9777 or email: nielsenjanc@aol.com.
Montecito - Oakmont Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . .692-5838 Services, Other Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Specialty Shopping Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840 Worship Clayton Community Church . . . . . . . . . . . . .claytoncc.com
COURAGE Do the Right Thing
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Now
Factors to consider before condo purchase
o
ls ke ay o a r Ka onda s on M to 11 pm 8 pm
6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440 Entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
June 29, 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Blues Healers July 6, 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Relyks Karaoke Mon. & Wed. nights Open Mic Thur. nights, 8 to 11 p.m. www.claytonclubsaloon.com
2 for the price of 1
Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 7/12/12
Commercial & Residential
Design Installation Maintenance
June 29, 2012
Tree Service – ISA Certified Arborist on Staff Clayton Resident
License # 958849
Come Ride With Us www.CastleRockArabians.com
SUMMER CAMP Dates available
July 2 through August 27 Monday - Friday, 9 am to 3 pm Extended care available Take one week or all $450 per week • HORSEMANSHIP • RIDING LESSONS • BIRTHDAY PARTIES • SCOUT BADGE PROGRAM
Megan & Cecily of Clayton.
UTOPIC GARDENS
Interest, Texture, Continuity...
925-524-0055 DESIGN & INSTALLATION LIC. NO. 898331 Fully Insured
www.UtopicGardens.com
Q: I want to buy a condominium for my first home purchase. I submitted an offer on one and the complex didn’t qualify for my loan. I am preapproved. What are some tips for being able to get approved to buy a condo? A: A condo is a great way to get started in the market. You pay homeowner’s dues but you don’t have to worry about roofs, exterior maintenance, landscaping, maintaining the pool or other facility costs. There are some great buys in our current market. It is a little tricky, though. Make sure your Realtor and lender are versed in rules of finance for condos. I asked my preferred lender (JVM Lending) for issues to consider. He supplied questions that need to be answered before choosing a condo complex: Is the condo complex FHA approved? If yes, FHA financing is the best option for buyers who lack large down payments (20 percent or more). Is the complex Fannie Mae approved? If you are using
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ANSWERS
conventional financing, it still needs to be approved. The exception is for complexes with four or fewer units. Is the homeowner’s association (HOA) involved in litigation? If it is, it’s not the end of the world. Some lenders will ignore litigation if it is not on a major or structural issue, or if it involves a unit away from yours. What is the owner occupancy rate? If you, the buyer, plan to occupy the unit, many conventional lenders have no issue with owner occupancy rates below 50 percent. But
for investors, FHA buyers and loans requiring mortgage insurance, the owner occupancy ratio must be more than 50 percent. What percentage of owners are delinquent with HOA dues? Most lenders require the figure to be 15 percent or less. Does a single entity or person own more than 10 percent of the units in the complex? This is called the “concentration rule” and usually precludes standard financing. How much are the HOA dues? This must be documented because it adds to the amount for which a buyer needs to qualify. Is the builder/developer still in control of the HOA? This is another issue that precludes standard financing. Once a complex is built out, the owners are usually in control of the HOA and often hire a management company to administrate. If you are considering purchasing a condo, please watch the HOA dues. Some dues seem
to be climbing high these days. Remember that $100 of HOA dues translates to about $20,000 more purchasing power for a single-family residence without an association. Example: a buyer qualifies for a condo with a maximum purchase price of $320,000 if HOA dues are $400 per month. This same buyer would qualify for a $400,000 single-family residence. That $400 can translate to $80,000 more single-family residence purchasing power. In this example, I am using a 4 percent interest rate. Still, a condominium purchase may be right for you. Safety, convenience, common areas, facilities and freedom from maintenance costs are good reasons to purchase one. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions, contact her at 672-878 7or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
Be wary of the easy way out The Feds are now monitoring your computer usage, and you could be in trouble if the email message says your “IP address was identified by the Computer Crime & Intellectual Property Section (of the federal government) as visiting child pornography and other illegal content.” The message advises you not to worry, because there is a way to set things straight again. The Feds have a way out. Just pay the $100 fine and you’re off the hook. Really? Yes, just pay the $100 fine and your cash-strapped government will give you a pass on your intellectual failures. Oh, by the way, check out our Website and look at our special offer. Perhaps you get a call from Microsoft or Google and they want to help you out by removing offending malware software. Of course, they need access to your computer. They will log into your computer remotely to fix the problem for you. How great is this: a major company interested in helping you. Their fee is just a hundred bucks, and you don’t have to do anything except go to their Website for help. Really? This brand of malware is called ransom-ware. It’s the latest threat to your security and your pocketbook. According to the Internet Complaint Crime Center (IC3),
“Users are lured into going to a URL for a ‘drive-by download’ Website, which installs a Trojan
(called Reveton) onto their machine using the Citadel platform. This Trojan then freezes their computer and displays a warning screen notifying the user that ‘the user’s IP address was identified by the Computer Crime & Intellectual Property Section as visiting child pornography and other illegal content.’ And they have to pay $100 to the federal government, via
credit card or wire transfer, to clear their record.” It’s a scam: the allegation of misconduct, the phone call, the free repair, the guilt, the access to your computer. “There are still a lot of (uninformed) people on the Internet, judging from the latest scam the FBI just warned against,” according to IC3. But, you think, there’s no way it could happen here, not in our town, not my backyard. Well, tell that to more than a dozen victims already involved in this scam in Clayton. It’s happening even though we have a newspaper that provides users with computer best practice advice on a regular basis.
Budget, from page 1 recession, the city has managed to avoid dipping into reserves, dodging one fiscal bullet after another. City employees have shouldered much of the burden, says Napper, forgoing all raises including cost-of-living adjustments, and adding 11 unpaid furlough days per year. The loss of funds from the Redevelopment Agency before
the city received all its property tax money was the punch that threatened to send the budget to the mat. The city will not receive any administrative reimbursement from the agency, nor will it see a payback of the the $500,000 loaned to the RDA in 1999 to buy the land for Station 11 fire station. However, with careful man-
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK All successful scams require your help. You need to lower your guard, trust a stranger and give a guy a chance to help you. Instead, you should make friends with your local computer expert and have your malware scanners up to date. Use your head and only allow trusted sources access to your computer, laptop or tablet. William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to will@claytonpioneer.com.
agement, a little luck and the occasional unexpected windfall, the city may still end up on its feet, says Napper, noting that the city has always budgeted conservatively. “Staff only hopes the city’s historical propensity to beat its revenue projections and operate under its expense budget will hold for this fiscal year (as it has in the past.)” For a complete copy of the 201213 budget, go to www.ci.clayton.ca.us.
June 29, 2012
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Club News
The Market is Starting to Heat up! BEAUTIFUL 5 BDRM, 3.5 BATH HOME!
Scouts Fages Hike in Berkeley as preparation for a 50-mile hike at Mt. Whitney in August. Over
BOY SCOUT TROOP 262 recently hiked the Berkeley Hills, some for the personal challenge and others to prepare for more outdoor Boy Scouts events this summer. Front row: John Carr, Tony Thongurai (Scout), Charlie Wullenweber (Scout). Back row: Dave Wullenweber, Dan Condon, Jim Louchis, Danny Condon (Scout), Nick Swiako.
150 Scouts from the area participated in the grueling hike. The adventure started in El Cerrito at Camp Herms. The hikers climbed up to and along the ridge line above the hills, traveling through woods, past golf courses, through Tilden Park and back to the starting point. Views of the Bay and all the bridges were stunning. Troop 262 took 11 hours to complete the hike. Maybe they were one of the slowest groups, but they met their goals of getting their feet used to their hiking boots, avoiding injury and finishing the hike. Scoutmaster Dan Condon says, “We were all tired. And all hungry. And we all had smiles glued to our faces.”
This quality built Plambeck home is on a quiet cul-de-sac with a new roof and lots of upgrades! Very spacious with 2,801 sq. ft., great curb appeal, a front porch and ample RV Parking on a large and landscaped lot! A Formal Living, beautiful Family Room with brick fireplace, and your own Movie Theater Room! A Master Suite with balcony and views of Mt. Diablo, a jacuzzi tub.
Only $674,900!
D SOL sell
Call Pete to see it. (925) 890-6004!
$879,000!
CUSTOM ESTATE HOME AT A SUPER PRICE!
can Pete rs too! you
KNOWLEDGE SERVICE INTEGRITY RESULTS
DRE#00344166
Troop 262 heads for the hills Boy scouts and parents from Troop 262 represented Clayton on June 2 at the annual Boy
Page 7
Pete Laurence, Broker, Realtor, GRI
Cell 890-6004
Fax 937-0150 Fantastic custom-built home in 2002, with 4,022 Sq Ft of Elegance plus a 500 Sq Ft 2950 Buskirk Ave., Basement! 5 Bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, granite & Ste.. 140, Walnut Creek marble, 3 fireplaces, 3 car garage & Clayton’s best neighborhood! 1.26 acres of heritage oaks, redwoods & fruit trees, 7 patios, trails your own lush meadow, & awesome views!
Clayton Rotary spreads service projects around the globe The Rotary Club of Clayton continues to be one of the most active participants in international projects in the region. The Clayton club recently spearheaded a major project in Uganda that involved developing educational, occupational and sanitation improvements for several thousand people in multiple small villages in the jungles North of the capital of Kinshasa. In addition to joining with several other clubs in the Diablo Valley area to develop a large home and educational facility for orphaned girls in Ethiopia, Clayton members also assisted in supplying surgical equipment and education in the same country. The club has been active south of the border as well, working on multiple projects with its sister club in San Felipe in Baja on the Sea of Cortez. The club has assisted with scholarships for dozens of
bright kids, brought new wheelchairs for those in need, helped obtain vocational training for handicapped kids and supplied an orphanage with teaching material, soft goods and a much-needed van purchased from the Salvation Army. The two clubs were also instrumental in a starting and equipping a cancer screening and educational facility, which has evaluated and educated thousands of local residents. The Clayton club is one of 70 in Rotary district 5160, which stretches north to Redding. Members also volunteer close to home, including the food bank, environmental projects, dictionaries for school kids, an international student exchange and educational summer camps. The Clayton club meets 7 a.m. Thursdays at Oakhurst Country Club. For more information, visit claytonvalleyrotary.org.
BART, from page 3 The Concord maintenance shop introduced a five-year rolling overhaul model for old and obsolete equipment, curbing the bleed of resources toward failure response from 80 percent to less than 40 percent, said chief mechanical officer Tamar Allen. The new model is akin to taking your family vehicle in for regular maintenance and oil changes. Allen credits this success, including climbing reliability of operable cars, to a philosophical culture change engaging employees as partners. “Our employees organize the work and build their own tools to expedite work. ‘Better, faster,
cheaper’ is our motto,” Allen said. Employees have implemented “brilliant” ideas, Allen added. “And they are very creative in getting work done.” A rehabilitation program for the A/B train cars in the late 1990s extended their life by 15 years and increased reliability. However, the rehabilitated cars are approaching the end of their useful life, and the newer C-Cars are also due for replacement. Increased ridership is putting greater strain on the fleet. On average, the train cars currently run 110,000 miles per year, with 92 percent availability.
THE CLAYTON ROTARY CLUB crosses all borders in its commitment to bring help where it’s needed. This woman in San Felipe, Baja, lost her legs and her husband in an automobile accident and had no way to get around until the Rotary Club provided her with a wheelchair.
TECHNO BACKLOAD The technology has become very dated as well. Many of the older systems are out of production, the technology is no longer supported and parts are scarce, explained chief engineer Don Allen. “We need to get funding for these ‘boring’ repair issues in order to move forward,” Allen said. “We have to communicate to Congress the importance of ‘get your act together’ because it keeps BART in a State of Good Repair and that is vital to the Bay Area economy.” The next-generation train car project is a $3 billion-plus capital investment that will span more than a decade and require a coordinated regional effort. For more information, visit www.bart.gov.
Classic Canada & New England Eastern America and the shores of French Canada
10 Days
Enjoy this 10-day voyage between New York and Québec City onboard the beautiful Emerald Princess.® Not only do you overnight in Québec City, but these cities bookend a truly exceptional itinerary, with highlights in both New England and Canada. Visit historic Boston, quaint Sydney, and take in the breathtaking beauty in the Bay of Fundy. Throughout your journey, you’ll be treated to freshly-prepared cuisine, warm welcoming service and signature features such as Movies Under the Stars® and The Sanctuary, our rejuvenating retreat just for adults. Escape completely – with Princess.® *
Fares from $1,499
Cruise highlights Boston
Experience the difference!
Experience the history of this city as you walk the Freedom Trail, and see colonial-era treasures like Bunker Hill Pavilion, Paul Revere’s House and the Old North Church. Or, head for the Faneuil Hall Marketplace for terrific shopping, dining and sightseeing.
Halifax Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic with its impressive Titanic exhibit. The doomed ocean liner sank 750 miles due east of Halifax in 1912. There are 121 Titanic victims buried in the Fairview Lawn Cemetery.
Luxury Tour Experts CST #2033054-40
Québec City From the historic Château Frontenac lording over the St. Lawrence River, to cobbled streets like Rue St. Louis, this city brings a taste of France to the New World. Find a good café, order a glass of wine, and soak it all in.
For reservations or information call
(925) 672-9840 Clayton Station Shopping Ctr. 5439 Clayton Rd., Ste. F
Date: Sept. 26, 2012 Princess reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement of up to $9 per person per day on all passengers if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel, even if the fare has already been paid in full. *Fares are per person, based on double occupancy, subject to availability and capacity controlled. Government fees and taxes are per person, additional and subject to change. See applicable Princess® brochures for terms, conditions and definitions that will apply to your booking. Offer available to residents of the U.S. and Canada. Other restrictions may apply. ©2011 Princess Cruises. Ships of Bermudan registry.
Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 29, 2012
Everything you need to know about swimsuits before diving in Swimsuit shopping often comes with a feeling of impending doom. The key to success is finding a suit that looks great and that makes you feel comfortable. Here are some tips to choosing a flattering style that helps hide your figure faults and highlights your best parts: Bored with black? Navy, brown and gray look sophisticated and can be just as slimming. Worried about pattern? Big blooms are more grownup than girly and artful prints. A onepiece with chevron stripes can give the illusion of a teeny waist and can have a similar effect on the rear view, too. What to do when your cups runneth over. Stop wearing a bra
underneath your suit and invest in something with all the structural integrity you need, like a Miraclesuit. Hate your midriff? A
detailed print is an ideal midsection concealer. Ruching also helps keep your middle on the down-low. Hide your belly. Try a tankini with a loose-fitting top that glides over your middle section. Make your hips disappear. A two-color block design, bright on top and black on the bottom, can be very slenderizing. Feeling fat? Bold graphics can erase five pounds in an instant, and color blocking will do more to slim your middle than cutting carbs. Too bad mosquitoes suck blood and not fat. Need a comfortable suit for swimming and sunning? Lands’ End makes a suit in a high-tech fabric that has an
Judith Marshall is the author of “Husbands May Come and Go but Friends are Forever.” Send comments to Judith.Marshall@att.net.
Kohler’s event is held over three days. The women’s quad begins on the first full day of the Olympics, Saturday, July 28, at 1:50 a.m. Pacific time. The second round of races is Aug. 30 and the medal race on Aug. 1 at about 2:20 a.m. our time when three of the 14 rowing events will determine medalists. The diving trials ended in bittersweet fashion last Sunday for Ipsen as he lost one of the two berths for the American team in the individual 3M springboard by the narrowest of margins. Ipsen led almost the entire way until missing his fifth dive on the final day to drop from first to third. He had trouble with the same reverse 3-1/2 in the synchro finals but he and Dumais had a
big enough lead to overcome that slip up. In the 3M Ipsen came back on his final dive with a strong effort but finished 1.25 points behind Dumais in the dreaded third spot, when only two Olympic berths were at hand. Chris Colwill came all the way from third to first on the final day to make his second Olympic team. Ipsen was quoted – eerily in hindsight – by USA Diving after the semi-finals as saying, “I think I did pretty well today. I don’t usually do as well in high-pressure situations. I missed my third round dive but I didn’t let it phase me.” In the finals he rebounded from his one subpar dive but it wasn’t quite enough to earn a second spot on the team.
of the transition, she pronounced him as more than just warm and friendly. “When I spoke to him, he felt authentic,” she said.
immediately joined together in chorus against the idea, while parents and administrators were in favor. After multiple surveys and public comment sessions, the school adopted a significantly more conservative – but uniform-free – dress code. “I’m aware of the different surveys. I know the students had strong opinions – they didn’t want the uniforms, the parents did,” said Linzey. For him, staff buy-in is as crucial to the plan’s success as making students aware of the policies. “When you only have 50 percent enforcing (a policy), it isn’t successful at all. When kids understand it’s 99 percent of the adults enforcing it, it becomes a successful policy.”
JUDITH MARSHALL
FASHION OVER 50 SPF built into it. Want to look sexy? If you feel comfortable in a two-piece, go for a one-shoulder look or an ethnic print. While your string bikini days may be over, there’s no reason to fret. There are more styles to choose from than ever before. It just takes a little more time to find the right one.
Dr. Jeanette Hochstatter
5442 Ygnacio Valley Rd. #180
925.672.4100
Olympians, from page 1
CLAYTON VALLEY CENTER Next door to Jamba Juice
Most insurance plans accepted
domestically since they were first paired together in 2009. After placing second in preliminary round they rebounded to take a lead during the semifinals. “We had a wake-up call in the preliminaries. The competition was great out there,” Ipsen said. “It was very nerve-wracking, but we’ve been training hard and I’m happy with our semifinal score.” The duo held that advantage through the finals despite a missed dive on their next-to-last effort. “When it was over and I looked up at my family and friends, it was finally like a dream come true,” said Ipsen, who qualified for his first
foresightoptometry.com
*Thru 7/31/12 – some restrictions apply
N for ow e Fa nro ll 2 llin 01 g 2
Looking for a
preschool program
for your child age 3 to Pre K? Our highly-qualified staff provide a loving environment for your child to explore and learn. Through our program, your child will become an engaged learner, fully prepared for future school experiences.
Give us a call today to set up a tour of the preschool and meet our staff!
Olympics at age 19. Ipsen had taken fifth at the 2008 Olympic Trials as a 15-year-old in the 3M springboard. Dumais, 13 years the senior of Ipsen, had the added pressure of trying to tie the legendary Greg Louganis by making his fourth Olympic team. In London the 3M synchro event is contested as straight finals on one day, Wednesday, Aug. 1, with eight teams taking part. Countries earned the eight synchro places based on World Championship and World Cup meet results. There will be six dives at the Olympics slated to start at about 7 a.m. Pacific time.
Walnut Country Preschool 4465 So. Larwin Ave (at The Crossings) (925) 798-9686 wcpreschool@astound.net
www.walnutcountrypreschool.com
Linzey, from page 1 backgrounds. Linzey noted that “combining academic rigor with a stress on caring relationships” is the key to raising a school’s performance.
Offering All-Season Training & Riding Instruction
NOT AFRAID OF CONTROVERSY
Private Riding Lessons Birthday Parties Camp
Western & English For all Levels of Rider Horsemanship Full-Service Training Competitive Show Team Certified Instructors
www.EarthquakeArabians.com 3141 Morgan Territory Rd., Clayton
925.360.7454
Linzey isn’t fazed about wading into politic-infested waters following the battle charter proponents and Mt. Diablo Unified School District officials waged over getting the school’s charter approved. During his tenure at Nuview, contentious negotiations with the teachers union, ubiquitous state budget cuts, and accusations of a conflict of interest between a consultant to the school board and a proposed charter school tested his resolve. Nevertheless, school board
Servicing You in the Comfort of Your Own Home WE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING SERVICES • • • • • • •
Incontinence Care Medication Management Feeding, Meal Preparation Comfort & Companionship Light Housekeeping Shower Toileting
(Locally Owned by an RN)
Call us for Free Consultation (888) 689-3010 or (925) 689-6887 Available 24/7 Reliable Efficient Trustworthy Insured and Bonded Lic #1455 = WE BEAT ALL OTHER PRICES!
Always Available DME Durable Medical Equipment
Fast and Free Delivery
Medicare Certified
“Our Prices are the Lowest”
We Sell/Rent Out The Following Medical Equipment/Supplies • • • •
Hospital Bed Electric Scooters Transfer Benches Shower Chairs
• Dignity Pads • Oxygen Concentrators • Raised Toilet Seats
• • • •
Hydraulic Lift Wheelchairs Rollators Splints
• Lift Chairs • Gloves Not Listed Call Us!
“We Serve You With Dignity, We Preserve Our Integrity” 3532 Clayton Rd, Concord, CA 94517
(888) 689-3010 or (925) 689-6887
members there spoke of his success. “We’re in a fiscal crisis statewide and also here locally, and he’s helped us get through the storm,” said Nuview board president Tommy Thompson. Linzey was sanguine about moving forward in Concord. “There’s got to be some hard feelings whenever a school pulls out of a district. No district wants to lose a big high school, especially not a couple of thousand kids,” he said. “But my attitude is that I’m coming in to work with folks who are real excited about having their own school and their opportunity to make the school what they dream for it to be. “Whatever occurred in the past is not my experience,” he added. “I’m looking forward to building supportive relationships as best I can, and I hope (MDUSD officials) will work together with me.” ‘AUTHENTIC’ AND HANDS-ON Linzey said he was attracted to the position at Clayton Valley by the opportunity to have a hands-on experience where he could see the impact of his administrative efforts. He sounded hopeful about working with community members and MDUSD officials to achieve his goals. “My style is to build bridges, to build relationships. I try to keep channels of communication wide open. I’m not a part of whatever chaos or connection that existed – I’m not part of that history,” he said. Outgoing principal Sue Brothers was optimistic about his chances for success in that regard. Following meetings with Linzey to go over details
LIVING IN THE MOMENT Meetings and to-do lists dominate Linzey’s life. Asked what he hopes to have accomplished by the three-month mark, he starts ticking off plans for what’s happening right now. Hiring of administrators. Implementing a summer learning program for incoming students, offering everything from help with algebra to remedial reading. Finding a French teacher. “We’re knocking down issues one by one, there’s just a whole lot to it,” he said. “We can’t just do the same things and expect results. We have to do new, better, different things.” Letting his wonk flag fly, Linzey described his first big challenge as getting systems up and running that were in many cases previously handled by MDUSD administrators, from cafeteria vendors to school books. He described his work launching the newly chartered school as a rare opportunity. “I see that as part of the excitement of this whole process, how we approach getting everybody going in the same direction.” TACKLING THE DRESS CODE The hotly debated student dress code changes offer an example of how Linzey thinks. In previous years, saggy pants and spaghetti-strap tops could be seen throughout the Clayton Valley campus. Following the charter’s approval, school organizers proposed uniforms as a solution to the problem of students distracted and teachers overwhelmed by the trends. Students from rival groups
A UNITED VISION Linzey said he is knocking down issues one by one. “There’s just a whole lot to it,” he said. “We can’t just do the same things and expect results. We have to do new, better, different things.” When looking at his benchmark for success, Linzey said test results are only part of the picture. “For me, test scores are a signal, a sign that you’ve done good work. But more than that, did we create a culture where the staff is united? When it’s all about the kids and the staff all gels together with a vision, that’s when you know you’re firing on all cylinders. “Most districts are saying: What do we have to do? What’s the least common denominator? For me, it’s about how much we can do and how can we do more,” he added. “Being a great school is about doing stuff for kids that we know we’re impacting their lives – not just for a test score, but for their future.”
June 29, 2012
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
Ziggy, the zebra settles in on Seeno estate DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer
Clayton has a new resident: Ziggy the zebra. The 8-month-old zebra has been attracting cars full of wideeyed children and parents alike as they drive by the Clayton estate of Albert Seeno Jr., on whose grounds Ziggy lives. Whether zebras are white with black stripes, or black with white stripes (which is correct), experts agree Ziggy is a member of the Chapman’s subgroup of plains zebras. Also known by their Latin name, Equus quagga chapmani, the animals are a
non-endangered species originating from the shadeless grasslands of Southern Africa. This particular zebra hails from a breeder in Washington state. Plains zebras can live to be about 30 years old and top out at 850 pounds. As charming and funny as Ziggy can seem from afar, parents should note that zebras are strong and territorial and have been known to bite. While Ziggy couldn’t be reached for comment, he seems to be enjoying grazing the hills of Clayton and can be seen amusing himself chasing the llamas, emus and donkeys who share the land with him.
Extraordinary Care for your Pet
DOLPHIN
Dolphin is a sweet girl who loves attention and will entertain you with her playful antics! She loves toys and food and will be a wonderful, mellow companion to a loving home. Dolphin came
Garfield is a handsome boy who enjoys attention! He is still a young guy and pretty active, though he will stay put for some cuddle time when he is in the mood! Garfield lived in a home with children ages 7 & 9 and was a real love bug with the kids. Garfield would prefer a home without a dog.
with this ad
Exotic Pets Welcome!
HARUN SIMBIRDI
SAFETY ZONE Gas prices are starting to come down, so people might be reconsidering a car trip this summer. Whether the trip is to Tahoe or cross-country, it is a good idea to brush up on some
Church, from page 1 The project has been a hotbed of controversy since the church submitted an application for a four-building, 42,000 sq. ft. complex on Main Street in 2011. Approval of that project would require major changes to the Town Center Specific Plan (TCSP) and the General Plan. The proposal was also dependent on the city waiving onsite parking requirements to allow the church to use public parking to meet its needs. The proposal generated hundreds of emails to City Hall and packed Planning Commission meetings with those opposed to the noise, traffic congestion and sheer size of the project. The application, which is still at the Planning Commission stage, was scheduled to move forward this month with the completion of the Environmental Impact Report when Robinson made the surprising announcement of the shift in focus. “We heard the concerns of the community and responded,” Robinson told the Pioneer. If the new plan on the Frank property comes together, park-
ing will no longer be an issue, he said. He believes the new parcel can accommodate the worship center and still have enough room to meet all parking requirements onsite. The Frank property is zoned residential and is outside the Town Center. A change in zoning to allow assembly use would not require amending the TCSP or the General Plan, says City Councilwoman, Julie Pierce. Pierce’s residence is close enough to the proposed site to cause a potential conflict of interest, she said. She would recuse herself from the approval process. “We believe this is a win-win for the community,” Robinson said. “We are hopeful that all the necessary hurdles will be overcome in a spirit of unity.” However, before moving ahead on the Frank property, the church must sell its 2.3 acres on Main Street. In a June 21 letter to City Manager Gary Napper, Robinson asked the city of Clayton to consider buying it. The city has long expressed an interest in buying the property from the church, should it
Josie Van Fleet, Owner and Operator (925) 432-PETS (7387) 671 Willow Pass Road #6, Pittsburg
PetSuitesInn.com
Irfan and crew are back at this location. Serving the community since 1991.
ZIGGY, AN 8-MONTH OLD ZEBRA COLT IS THE NEWEST RESIDENT on the Seeno estate. He thinks it’s great fun to chase the llamas, emus and donkeys that already live there. They don’t.
The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue
Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arf.net, or call 925.256.1ARF.
GARFIELD
On the road again? Think safety first driving safety. Remember to use the threesecond rule to determine the proper following distance. To help calculate the proper distance, select a reference point ahead of you such as an overpass or road sign. When the car in front of you passes the reference point count 1001, 1002, 1003. If you pass the reference point before you are done counting, you are following too close. Back off until you have three seconds. This distance is important to allow for reflect time and braking distance. If it is raining, increase the distance by a second. Add another second or two for snow and ice.
FREE pickup & delivery Now Open Sundays, 10-5 Fully staffed & monitored 24/7
10% off Boarding & Grooming services
Dolphin and Garfield are this week’s ARF Stars to ARF so overweight she was unable to be safely spayed. She underwent her own version of “Biggest Loser” to restore her health and is now ready for her forever home. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60% off one 7-week training session.
Resort, Spa, Salon
Before returning to the slower lane after passing, be sure to look over your shoulder and check your rear view and side mirrors. Give the car you have just passed enough room before returning to the slower lane. If your trip includes pulling a trailer, remember the speed limit is 55 mph in California. On a recent trip, I saw several drivers pulled over by the CHP for speeding. However, the most common violation for drivers age 55 and over is right of way and improper left turn. This is a statistic from the AARP Driver Safety Course. So, be especially careful in these situations. Depth perception
decide to build elsewhere. However, that was when there were Redevelopment Agency funds available for the purchase, Napper says. Without those funds, it is uncertain where the city would get the money to buy the property. Neighbors on Pine Hollow Court are concerned about the effect a church would have on their quiet, rural neighborhood, which was once part of the large ranch purchased by Fred and Elizabeth Frank in 1901. Charmetta Mann, 72, has lived most of her life on the ranch in the house her grandparents built. Her share of the original ranch is directly across Pine Hollow Lane from the Frank parcel. Mann worries about the traffic and noise and the impact the buildings may have on her view of the surrounding hills. “The times, they are a changin’,” she said, staring across the open field to the hills. “And I don’t like change.” Napper has ordered an appraisal on the downtown property and asked church officials to detail any conditions they might want in the transaction. He also advised the church to look for an outside buyer while the city considers the deal.
changes as we grow older, so do not be caught saying: “Where did that car come from?” When passing a large truck, bus or RV, pass quickly to avoid being in the blind spot of the vehicle. If you are following a large vehicle and you cannot see the side view mirrors, the driver cannot see you and you are following too close. Use the threesecond rule.
686-1000 Mon. – Fri. 8:30-6:30, Sat. 9-5
Services include:
Tune-up Alignment A/C Tires Brakes Smog Check
$29.95*
(next to Jack in the Box)
A/C maint. maint. A/C
Oil change (5 qts.) and tire rotation
4746 Clayton Road
Service
* for summer .95 (1 lb. freon) for$summer (1 lb. freon) .95
79
$79 (*Applies to most cars)
(*Applies to most cars)
Gnocchis
Open Until 8 PM Tue through Sat 10 am - 8 pm
now served every Friday
Cannoli available everyday
Now serving beer & wine
Always Fresh, Always Italian Delivery se rvice now a Enjoy the sa vailable me GREAT food in the comfort of
your home! Call for de tails.
ut Creek nd Waln a d r o c Serving C layton, Con
ry elive D We offer d n Eat In, Take Out a Owned and operated by Clayton residents Carol & Jim Rackel • Tami & Ernie Campora
(925) 689-3819
4375 Clayton Road, Suite G Concord, Nearest cross street Treat
See Safety page 18
Serving Northern California for Over 30 Years
Residential & Commercial
FREE ESTIMATES
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
Lic. #642272 Certified Arborist WE-3386A
Major Credit Cards Accepted CCC Certified Fire Abatement
www.waranerbrostree.com
Specializing in Large Hazardous Trees Crane Service Tree & Stump Removal Arborist Consulting Arborist Reports Pruning/Cabling Fire Abatement Custom Milled Lumber Chainsaw Carvings
Ed Waraner Clayton Resident Licensed and Insured
(925)831-2323 Cell:
(925) 250-0335
Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 29, 2012
Sports
CVHS athletes earn 2011-12 year honors JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley High School teams and athletes ended the 2011-12 season with plenty of awards as the Eagles prepared to enter a new era as Clayton Valley Charter High School in the fall. Alex Tate and Jonathan Kim were named CVHS Athletes of the Year and their accomplishments made it clear they deserved the laurels. Tate won the 1600- and 3200-meter runs at the recent Diablo Valley Athletic League track and field championships and was voted girls co-MVP at the DVAL meet. She also has a pair of DVAL cross country championships as well as three straight appearances in the State Meet. During the winter Tate filled her time with the Eagles successful soccer team. Lipscomb University in Nashville will get her running talents for the next four years. Kim spent his time at Clayton Valley dominating on the DVAL tennis courts. He was league champion and MVP three consecutive years and didn’t lose a league or preseason match since his freshman season. He’ll be competing for Pomona-Pitzer College in Claremont next year. Tate and Kim were among eight CVHS athletes gaining recognition at the United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation celebration last month where 36 graduating seniors from the six DVAL public schools who are going on to college athletics were feted. CVHS alum and former Oakland Raider Sam Williams and North Coast Section commissioner Gil Lemmon spoke at the celebration. Clayton Valley coach Jerry Coakley, who passed away during the school year, was also memorialized with a presentation to this family.
Photo courtesy Scott Anderson
JAKE FRIGARD (above) and fellow sophomore Jacob Reynolds were first team all-Diablo Valley Athletic League for Clayton Valley this spring. Frigard is now fifth all-time at CVHS in the 200yard individual medley and seventh in 100 butterfly. Reynolds is fourth in the 100 breast.
first-time varsity player yet was DVAL baseball MVP for the 20-6 Eagles, who lost 2-1 in the second round of the NCS playoffs despite giving up only two hits to Dougherty Valley. On the all-DVAL first team were Mazza, Eddie Juarez, Ryan Kroll and Josh Ballard. Second team all-league were Tommy Boyle, Garrett Nelson and Jesse Medrano, while John Ballard and Matt Jacobson were honorable mention.
UMDAF HONORS SENIOR Besides Tate and Kim, UMDAF honored Molly Kommer (Sonoma State), Domenic Mazza (UC Santa Barbara), Kyle Bradbury (Colorado School of Mines), Teigan Haft (Alderson-Broaddus College), Jackie Svoboda (Cal Poly) and Josh Gomez (UC Davis). During the spring season the majority of Clayton Valley teams reached the NCS playoffs and Eagle athletes fittingly received their share of post-season recognition. Junior Ryan Snyder was a
The Eagles softball team also got into NCS but lost to top-ranked Newark in the second round. Junior Shannon Mestas was co-MVP pitcher with Concord’s Jenna Leavitt, who led the Minutemen to the NCS championship. CVHS teammates Bella Faleafine, Jacee Almond, Rachel Siver and Jenna Zukowski were first team allDVAL, Katilyn Covione was second team and Kaitlyn Montgomery honorable mention. It’s
Coach Jack Boeger of Clayton could hardly have been more pleased as his Diablo FC 01 Blue under 11 girls braved temperatures over 100 degrees to reach the championship game of the 20th annual Cal Cup tournament in Sacramento. The newly-formed team won its two Saturday games in impressive fashion before losing to Ajax United Premier of Modesto in the final preliminary game. As luck would have it, Ajax and Diablo FC were the top two teams in the six-team bracket and met again the same day in the finals. Ajax won a close 2-0 battle in the championship match. The team next plays in the San Ramon Azuri Summer Classic at the end of July. Diablo FC 01 Blue includes, front row from left, Maleah Scram, Sarena Connel, Cydney Walker, Mia Vahey, Sarah Grigsby, Grace Wenger; back row, Megan Morimoto, Vanessa Castrillo, Olivia Patterson, Hanako Helton, Maddie Hayes, Kaitlyn Sheffield, Maddy Mays, Autumn Geckler; rear,
Photo courtesy Diablo FC
LITTORNO LAW GROUP Assisted over 4,000 Families since 1979
Legal Services:
See Honors , page 11
Mike Dunn photo
SENIOR ALEX TATE was named Clayton Valley High School girls athlete of the year for her prowess in cross country, soccer and track. She won the 1600- and 3200-meter runs at the recent Diablo Valley Athletic League track and field championships and was voted girls co-MVP at the DVAL meet. She also has a pair of DVAL cross country championships as well as three straight appearances in the State Meet.
New Diablo FC U11 girls team Cal Cup finalist
Richard A. Littorno
worth noting that none of the Eagles honored is a senior. Boys volleyball lost a tough four-set match in the NCS second round to eventual champion Campolindo. Taylor Wingard was first team all-DVAL while sophomore teammates Matthew D’Angina (second team) and Garrett Blatter (honorable mention) were also lauded.
Living Trusts and Wills Tax & Estate Planning Probate & Trust Administration & Litigation Asset Protection Strategies Medi-Cal & VA Benefit Planning VA Accredited Attorney, Member of Academy of VA Pension Planners
Walnut Creek Office:
Pittsburg Office:
3100 Oak Road, #300 Walnut Creek CA 94597 Phone: (925) 937-4211 Richard@LittornoLaw.com
2211 Railroad Ave. Pittsburg CA 94565 Phone: (925) 432-4211 www.LittornoLaw.com
June 29, 2012
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Sports tions, hustles on and off the field and has an ever-present smile. Sophia exudes sportsmanship, has a great attitude and is always respectful to her teammates.” Enders just completed her freshman year being home schooled in Clayton. She also plays AYSO soccer, loves music and going horseback riding.
Athlete Spotlight Name: Sophia Enders Age: 15 Team: CV Little League Eaglettes Sport: Softball Sophia Enders could be found catching or playing third base for the Clayton Valley Little League Eaglettes. Her versatility on defense and consistency as a hitter helped her team
win the league championship to advance to post-season play in District 4. Manager Theresa Bangert says a highlight of the season was when “Soapy” smashed the ball into the left
center gap against Martinez for a grand slam. The manager adds, “Sophia has a great sense of humor and is a pleasure to coach. She maintains composure during intense game situa-
The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Sophia Enders and rewards her achievement with a gift certificate to Rocco’s Ristorante & Pizzeria. Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Rocco’s Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
Page 11
Sports Shorts KNBR BASEBALL SKILLS CLINIC IN CONCORD JULY 12 The second annual KNBR Baseball Skills Clinic comes to the area on Thursday, July 12, at Willow Pass Park in Concord. The 9 a.m. - noon clinic is open to boys and girls 6-12 years of age. Each attendee gets 3 hours of instruction, camp T-shirt, lunch from Togo’s and clinic certificate. Cost is $20. Registration is taken now at KNBR.com.
DIABLO FC U14 GIRLS TEAM HAS PLAYER OPENINGS Girls interested in playing for a competitive youth soccer team can be evaluated for the Diablo FC 98 Blue U14 team. Coach Johnny Molina is looking for two experienced field players and a goalkeeper for 2012-13 season (birthdate between Aug. 1, 1998 and July 31, 1999). The team and club offer experienced coaching, excellent training and a friendly team environment. Interested players can contact Coach Molina at jmolina@diablofc.org or sign up at diablofc.org.
REGISTER FOR YOUTH FALL LEAGUES AT CLAYTON GYM The popular youth volleyball and basketball leagues at Clayton Community Gym are full for the summer and fall registration is now open. Basketball for girls and boys from 4-16 begins Sept. 22. Deadline for registration is Aug. 24 and player evaluation day is Sept. 7. Volleyball league is open to kids 8-15. Everyone plays in this noncompetitive, 7-week program. Registration is being taken online at alloutsportsleague.com for both leagues.
FOOTBALL, CHEER SIGNUPS OPEN FOR CV FALCONS Northgate for second place in the DVAL at 9-3 behind league champ College Park. CVHS won its first-round North Coast Section playoff game against Northgate 4-3 in eight innings before losing a 2-1 heartbreaker to Dougherty Valley. Snyder was honored for his batting prowess with the DVAL Most Valuable Player award.
Athlete Spotlight Name: Ryan Snyder Age: 17 Team: CVHS Baseball Sport: Baseball Ryan Snyder played shortstop last year for the Clayton Valley High School junior varsity baseball team before moving to third base in his first varsity season this spring. The jun-
ior wasn’t on the radar screen of the other DVAL teams when the Eagles began the 2012 season with new head coach Herc Pardi. That changed quickly as Snyder
dominated strong DVAL pitching while leading the league in batting (.429) and slugging percentage (.607) and was second in on base percentage (.529). The Eagles tied
The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Ryan Snyder and rewards his achievement with a gift certificate to Rocco’s Ristorante & Pizzeria. Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Rocco’s Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
Registration is open for Clayton Valley Youth football and cheer. Football is open for ages 7-14 while cheer accepts ages 5-14. In-person registration days for the CVAA Falcons are Thursday, July 12, 6:30-8 p.m. at Mountain Mike’s Pizza by Clayton Bowl and a final session on Saturday, July 21. Season practice starts July 30. For more information and online registration visit CVAAFalcons.com .
CV LITTLE LEAGUE HOSTING POST-SEASON SOFTBALL The regular season is over but Clayton Valley Little League is hosting post-season softball tournament games this month through July 11. Check llcad4.org for specifics on games in post-season play.
U8 SOCCER ACADEMY ACCEPTING SUMMER APPLICANTS Diablo FC’s renowned Soccer Academy is taking signups now for its summer session which runs July 9-Aug. 17. Boys and girls 5-8 years of age can participate in the U8 Academy with instruction at Boatwright Fields from Brazilian Olympian Tafa, Diablo FC director of coaching Brian Voltattorni and District 4 coaching director Steve Shott. Registration and more info are available at diablofc.org.
MDSA WAITLIST REGISTRATION CONTINUES FOR FALL SOCCER SEASON
Girls and boys four to 18 years can sign up now for the 32nd AYSO season of Mt. Diablo Soccer Association. Registrants will be on a waitlist pending development of teams. Late registration fee goes up July 1 by $25. Email questions to registration@mdsoccer.org or visit mdsoccer.org to sign up.
ADULT VOLLEYBALL, KICKBALL LEAGUES STARTING IN JULY
Honors, from page 10 Kim‘s fellow Eagles got tennis all-league recognition. Ryan Dugan was first team all-DVAL while Kevin Dong, Jake Saudan, Brendon Sovik and Jimmy Young were second team. Austin Arter and Randy Padua were honorable mention. Daniel Maraccini was second-team all-DVAL for the golf team as the only Eagle gaining all-league notice. In boys lacrosse the Eagles made the NCS playoffs with allDVAL players Nate Barker, Haft, Josh Johnson, Mike Kerr and Broderick Villamor leading the way. Carlos Guerrero, Brent Tovrea and Cameron Baci-
galupo were second team for CVHS along with local athlete Kirk Eade of Berean Christian. Eagles Troy Carlson, Joey Clough, Clayton Martin and Michael Wells were honorable mention all-league. The Eagles girls lacrosse team plays in the Bay Shore Athletic League and Joanna Fan was first team all-BSAL. Sophomore Priti Lal and junior Lauren Valory were honorable mention. The Eagles swim team earned all-DVAL second team honors for Bailey Rogers, Sara Abele, Ariana Bermudez, Jenna Stelzner, Jackie Svoboda and
Kayla Conger. Abele moved into seventh place on the school’s all-time list in the 100yard breaststroke. On the boys side, sophomores Jake Frigard and Jacob Reynolds were first team, Jordan Tate and Matt Vanderstraeten second team and Jack Brown, Spencer Christensen and Liam Calkins honorable mention. Frigard is now fifth all-time at CVHS in 200 individual medley and seventh in 100 butterfly. Reynolds is fourth in the 100 breast. The track team of coach Les Garaventa got honors for others than just co-MVP Tate. Janelle Bandayrel (long jump), Sara Holt (triple jump), Florence Allatini (discus), Tisiola
Allatini (shot put), John Ballard (200 meters) and Craig Ihle (long jump) were first-team allDVAL after claiming league titles. Second team were Sarah Enemark (200), Ballard (100), F. Allatini (shot), Jessica Forrester (100), Kelii Dominguez (200) and Danny Condon (3200). Honorable mention track and field recognition was given to Holt (100), T. Allatini (discus), Katrina Buhagiar (100 high hurdles and 300 hurdles), Forrester (200), Victoria Darrow (LJ), Nicole Simms (TJ), Brad Lovick (400), Christian Acerogiles (100), Aaron Gardner (3200), Ihle (300H) and Willie Norato (LJ).
y e l l a V n o t Clay wl
Bow
5300 Clayton Rd, Concord, CA 925.689.4631
visit: claytonvalleybowl.com
Digital Thunder Glow Bowling 5 BIG DVD SCREENS Ask about High End Digital Private Parties
It could be a virus or it could just need a tune-up. Prevent problems caused by viruses and spyware with Regular proactive maintenance.
FRI 4 pm - 6 pm (kids), 10 pm - 1 am, Sat 10 pm - 1 am
TOTAL DESKTOP CARE & SERVER WATCH
Freaky Funday on Sundays
Low cost, fixed fee services that monitor & maintain your network Call Mark 925.672.6029 or to minimize info@netsolutions-ca.com IT problems
5pm to midnight - $6 cover charge gets you $1-games, shoes, hotdogs, sodas & small beers.
Nifty $1.50 Nights for everyone $1.50 games, Mon. thru Thu. 9pm to midnight
KIDS BOWL FREE ALL SUMMER For details:
KidsBowlFree.com/CVB
The newest offering by All Out Sports League at Clayton Community Gym is an adult coed kickball league this summer running July 8-Aug. 19. Teams and individuals (who will be placed on a team) can sign up. Summer adult volleyball league is July 9-Sept. 13. Registration for both programs is being accepted now at alloutsportsleague.com.
FUTURE STARS SOCCER CAMP HOSTING CROATIAN COACHES Boatwright Youth Sports Complex in Concord will be site of 4 soccer camps in July hosted by Future Stars Soccer Academy. From July 9-13 top youth coaches from NK Dinamo Zagreb of Croatia will conduct a camp for boys and girls ages 8-18 on competitive teams. Dinamo Zagreb is a European player development powerhouse and the club has been nicknamed the “Brazilians of Europe” for their style of play. Dinamo Zagreb most recently played in the UEFA Champions League and has developed more than half of the Croatian National Team that just competed in Euro 2012. Top players for Croatia, Luca Modric and Mario Mandis of Tottenham FC and Mario Mandzukic (a leading goal scorer at Euro 2012), were developed by the club. Future Stars Skills Academy for competitive players aged 10-16 is July 23-26 while the Future Stars Soccer Academy for all skill levels for ages 6-16 is being held July 23-27 and July 30-Aug. 3. Visit futurestarsfutbol.com to register and for more information.
Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
baseball and softball academy
Summer Camp July 16-20 Session 1 9am-noon (5-10) Session 2 1pm-4pm (11-13) Clayton Community Baseball Field $150 per camper
Sports Clayton Valley Little League wraps up a successful baseball season in playoffs Patrick Gillespie, Dennis Curran, Dominic McKinney, Jayson Downs, Zach Storn, Tristan
JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Individual pitching & hitting lessons
kaliball.com
contact: 925-276-0845
Cheyenne Electric Inc. • Residential & commercial
installation, remodel, repair and troubleshooting • Emergency repairs 24/7 • Free estimates Owned by Mike Henry & Bob Breland Insured and Bonded License #624336
566-8226 Check us out at
Yelp.com
CheyenneElectricInc.com ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUE
AOSL PRESENTS
SUMMER
2012
PROGRAMS NOW AVAILABLE! Registration Now Open
Youth Summer Basketball League Youth Summer Volleyball League
GYM RENTAL AVAILABLE. Call for details
Personal Training for kids
Registration Now Open
Summer Day Care Adult Kickball
StudentAthlete Websites available
Tuesday Nights
Open gym Volleyball formation –
Registration In
ague.com le s t r o p s t u o ll or call (925) 203-5626 www.a Cruise Adventures Unlimited Serving all cruise lines since 1987
s e s i u r C s s e c n i r P co
San Francis awaii H o t ip r t d n Rou 15 Nights Star Princess for 2012 Oct. 6 & 23, Nov. 5 & 20 Grand Princess for 2013 March 16, April 10 & 25 Owners Valerie O’Connell (Clayton resident, 30 years) & daughter Colleen O’Connell
CST 2074362-40
Call for additional information including pricing and amenities
(925) 935-7447
1610 Locust St., Walnut Creek
www.cruiseadventuresunlimited.com
June 29, 2012
Clayton Valley Little League baseball season got off to a slow start due to the rainy early spring but things heated up with the weather and on the diamond going through the regular season, playoffs, Tournament of Champions and all-stars. CVLL president Kevin Christiansen summed things up, “We had another excellent year. From our T-ball division all the way up to our juniors, we once again saw both our baseball and softball players improve their skills throughout the year. For the first time this year, we had a four-old T-ball division that was a great success in introducing the kids to baseball. Even more importantly, teamwork and sportsmanship was stressed and evident throughout the league. Thank you to all those that volunteered. We look forward to another great season next year.” In the youngest division having post-season play, the Minor B Mariners, who finished fourth in a closely bunched regular season, won the CVLL playoffs and then advanced to the championship game of the District 4 TOC by beating Richmond 9-8 and Antioch Giants 12-9. In the finals Manager Shayne Mendonca’s Mariners met South Oakland in Alameda. The White Sox reigned in Minor A with a strong 11-2 regular season and then a championship in the playoffs after surviving through the loser’s bracket. They opened the TOC with an impressive victory over host Concord American before losing to Alameda. In the CVLL Majors the Diamondbacks edged the Cardinals for the regular-season crown by one game. The Dbacks of manager George Del Monte were ousted by Continental LL in the TOC. District 4 All-Stars games started this week. CVLL AllStars include:
Daly, Eric Zimmer, Jordan Glantz, Seth Gwynn, Aisen Reinwald, Jake Enos, Sean Cur-
ran, Joe Course, Lucas Lauricella, Sam Wofse, Ryan Muniz, Jack Saylor, Johnny Pauline.
Photos courtesy Clayton Valley Little League
THE MARINERS UTILIZED HITTING, PITCHING AND DEFENSE to capture the Clayton Valley Little League Minor B playoff championship. However the Mariners didn’t stop there as they stormed into the championship game of the District 4 AA Tournament of Champions as well by beating Richmond and Antioch. The team includes, front row from left, Nathan Withrow, Zach Lawson, Alec Beach, Christian Nomellini, Riley Mendonca, John George IV. Back row, Rune Lervaag, coach Steve Longley, Toshio Longley, coach Darrold Withrow, Brandon Hoover, Nick Stelchek, Joseph Lockyer, Dominic (Nicky) Pellegrino and manager Shayne Mendonca.
THE WHITE SOX WON THE MINOR A LEAGUE TITLE THIS YEAR in Clayton Valley Little League with an 11-2 record. After losing a game in the CVLL playoffs the Sox rebounded from the loser’s bracket and took the playoff championship as well. The team includes, kneeling from left, Eric Zimmer, John Parker, Dominic Devengenzo, Denny Curran, Charlie Easterly, Sean Curran; standing, Logan McMillan, David Wishnow, Kevin Olson, Quinton Mahloch, Clayton Mahloch, Lucas Lauricella; coaches, Kevin Zimmer, Dennis Curran, Dewayne Bianchi and John Mahloch.
12-YEAR-OLD ALL-STARS Vincent Del Monte, Jordy Robichaud, Dominick Rodriquez, Charlie Wullenweber, William Jordan, Austin Covione, Grayson Wright, Joey Cicalla, Dillon Lofgren, Ryan Course, Cooper Nichols, Sean McCourt, Payton Albert. 11-YEAR-OLD ALL-STARS Eric Blaettler, Jason Cannedy, Collin Cox, Dalton Elzey, Tyler Ferrara, Derrek Gardner, Luke Mingham, Scott Rodriquez, Shuichi Roundtree, Lucas Shaver, Jordan Teicheira, Hunter Walden. 9-10 YEAR-OLD ALL-STARS Clayton Seastrand, Riley Christiansen, Anthony Trebendis, Mitchell Hansen, Jaden Watt, Jake Brennan, Derek Luedtke, Quinton Mahloch, Clayton Mahloch,
THE DIAMONDBACKS LOST ONLY ONE GAME EN ROUTE TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP in the Major division of Clayton Valley Little League but were closely followed by the Cardinals who lost only twice. The Dbacks include, front row from left, Shane Hopfner, Charlie Wullenweber, Vincent Del Monte, Dominick Rodriguez, Collin Cox; middle row, Leo Martinez, William Walsh, Jordan Teicheira, Cade Carter, Jordan Robichaud, Jacob Sellers; back row, coach David Rodriguez, Jason Cannedy and manager George Del Monte.
Remodeling Windows/Doors Crown
Molding
Overhangs Decks
Siding
Trim
Clayton Resident
FREE estimates
Specializing in
Bathrooms & Kitchens
Installations – Repairs Toilets Faucets Water heaters Garbage disposals Clogged drains
The UPS Store Independently owned and operated
Looking for a better Mailbox? Secure 24-hour access, plus it’s a real street address for all your deliveries.
Belfast Plumbing
3 MONTHS FREE mailbox services with a twelve-month agreement. Notary, Packaging, Fax and Copy Services are available too!
Clayton/Concord Location:
Credit Cards accepted: Visa, MasterCard, Discover
TipperaryConstruction.com
Tipperary Construction Inc. General Contractor,
license# 783799, B, HIC
(925) 457-5423
www.belfastplumbing.com License. 906211
Store Hours M-F 8-7 Sat 9-5
Vineyard Shopping Center
5100 Clayton Road Concord, CA 94523 ph: 925-689-6245
June 29, 2012
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
It’s time to wrap up this wondrous adventure I’ve known all along that this story was coming, and that its deadline marks the potential end of my writing career. I’ve spent weeks avoiding it, occupying myself with postgraduation celebrations and other seasonal distractions – reluctant to say goodbye and not quite sure how to phrase it. At last the day to write my final Teen Speak article has come, but I am still at a loss for words. Of all the goodbyes I will be saying this summer as I look toward my future at UCLA next fall, saying farewell to the Clayton Pioneer will be among the most difficult. Sitting down to a blank Word document every month to battle a blinking cursor has become a welcome routine, a relied upon task to break up the mass of mind-numbing homework and activities. I worry that I won’t know what to do with myself once I’ve
TAYLOR TOVREA TEEN SPEAK submitted my last piece. These monthly 500-plus words have seemed at times a prize, a challenge and even a burden during finals week, but they really have been a gift. Amidst term papers and essays, Teen Speak has reminded me why I love to write. The column gave me the opportunity (and motivational deadline) to develop my voice and really take a look at myself and the world
around me in a way I never would have without it. I can see a story in just about everything now. And in those cases when I can’t, the journalist in me demands to find one. Writing on assignment also helped me to learn more about my community and expand my perspective, in many cases exposing me to things and people I hadn’t even known existed. I do not fear that I will forget these lessons next year should I not secure a place for myself at the Daily Bruin, but rather that I will be missing out on so much more growth, potential, people and experiences. While it’s unclear how many people read my articles or whether they find any value or insight in them, I can say with 100 percent certainty that writing them has helped me to become a better person. For that, I am immensely grateful.
I would advise anyone with a knack and fondness for writing to eagerly take advantage of an opportunity to write for a newspaper. The experience is unparalleled and well worthwhile for what you learn about yourself and the world in general. I’ve never been good at endings. I refused to read the last chapter of a good book when I was a child, unwilling to let the story come to a close. Unfortunately, it is here that I come to the last page of my adventure with the Clayton Pioneer and, with a bittersweet taste in my mouth, flip it closed. It’s been a great read for me; I hope that you all feel the same.
Congratulations, Taylor, on a spectacular high school career. We thank you for all you have contributed to the Pioneer and we will miss you.
Goodbyes are like the sun CELINE HERRERA DVMS REPORTER As you grow up, you learn things about yourself. What I’ve learned is that I am horrible at saying goodbye. When I was about 4, I left the Monterey Bay Aquarium in tears because I didn’t want to be separated from the cute penguins or the colorful fish. So writing this “goodbye” article for the Clayton Pioneer wasn’t easy.
Writing for the Pioneer taught me a lot, including that writing is the best way of talking without being interrupted. I also now know that doing what you love will get you far in life. And, I learned that procrastinating is never a good idea and deadlines are made for a reason. I would like to give some advice to the future DVMS reporter. First of all, congratulations! Writing for the Pioneer is a lot of fun – but work at the same time. You need to fit in writing along with sports, music, school and other activities, so when you have free time, WRITE. The best writing comes when you somehow get your mind and heart to work together. It can be magical.
I would like to thank my family for being my source of inspiration and giving me ideas when I have had writer’s block. To my friends: You guys were all phenomenal and supportive, dealing with me being stressed out or just cheering me up. To my teachers and peers: Thank you for your daily lessons and advice, especially English and history teacher Mrs. Cherepy for teaching me about grammar and wordly wise words. Thank you to my fabulous editor, Tamara Steiner, and everyone at the Pioneer for double checking, editing and giving me feedback on my articles and for giving me the honor of writing and making my dream of
FREE Regular
6” Sub when you buy a 6” Sub of equal or greater price & 21 oz. drink Plus tax. Excludes premium or double stacked subs. May not be combined with any other discounts, coupons or great meal deals. Valid only at this location.
Steffan Smith Construction Residential Remodeling and Renovation Specializing in Kitchens and Bathrooms
Your remodeling job is our priority from start to finish " Award rvation e ts s e A r P " this r ner for in w ! 2 n 1 e 20 ts kitch & Craf
General contractor with 25 years hands-on experience Clayton resident
Call for free estimate or advice (925) 914-0497 www.steffansmithconstruction.com
License #B801149
being published come true. Finally, thank you to my readers – even though I may not know some of you (well actually, a lot of you!). Though I end this column with a heavy heart, I learned something new today. Saying goodbye is like the sun. You see it come and go every day but it doesn’t mean it’s gone forever – just until the right amount of time lets it come again. So until the right amount of time passes and we meet again, I say goodbye for now. Thank you, Celine. We wish you all the best as you transition into high school.
News from the charter front Once upon a time, in a school not so far away, teachers, staff and administrators alike began to feel frustrated about the ability to deliver quality education to the students. And so, a small band of committed teachers began to seek an alternative and found a solution: conversion to a charter school. Thus, Clayton Valley High School is now Clayton Valley Charter High School. For biographies of the new administrators, see the staff directory tab at claytonvalley.org. Head football coach Tim Murphy offers his philosophy going forward. “We define work ethic as working your hardest whether you are on the field, off the field, in the weight room or in the classroom and how hard you get others around you to work.” He says “having a structured program
where players know exactly where they stand is more important than ever. One of the things I am fighting as a coach is how our society has become centered on the ‘quick fix.’ The truth is things that are truly meaningful and worthwhile take time and great effort. It is our job to teach this concept to young people and give them direction and motivation on how to accomplish their goals.” English teacher Jenny DeAngelis was elected by her colleagues to represent the teachers on the governing board. Pat Middendorf holds the new administrator seat on the board, replacing interim administrator Jim Long. Many of you have sent me questions for the new executive director, Dave Linzey. I plan to feature them as I receive them.
Equipped to handle all your electrical needs New construction Remodel Trouble Shooting Low Voltage Wiring
Speakers Multi Media Alarm Wiring & Monitoring We can do it all!
Q: How is Mr. Linzey going to enhance teacher/parent communications? Specifically, is there going to be a policy that requires a teacher to respond to a parent’s email or phone call within a certain timeframe? A: CVCHS policy is for teachers and administrators to return calls and emails with 24 hours. Q: How will Mr. Linzey end the practice of movie watching during specified classroom time? This concern is not directed toward documentaries, but rather entertainment type movies such as “Toy Story,” “X-Men,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ” and “The Hangover Part II.” While these may be classics, they seem to have replaced instruction for many weeks during our school year. A: All videos/movies must be aligned to lesson plans, with follow-up activities such as essays,
Is your home ready for a makeover? Then you’re going to love our Ultimate Home Makeover Sale going on now. Let our experts make it easy and affordable to give your home a brand new look.
APRIL WINSHIP
THE CHARTER PAPERS etc. The administration will address any abuse of the policy. Have a question for a CVCHS administrator? Email april.winship@claytonvalley.org. If you would like to help with the Freshman Summer Transition Program, contact Kat Marzel at katmar56@gmail.com. What is your vision for CVCHS? What steps would you take to realize this vision? Email comments to april.winship@claytonvalley.org. April Winship is the parent of two CVCHS students. She lives in Clayton with her family.
Carpet
Hardwood
Laminate
Starting at
Starting at
Starting at
3
1
$ .99 sq.ft. $ .25 sq.ft. $.99 sq.ft. Tile
Hurry!
Starting at
This Unbelievable Sale Ends June 30
2
$
sq.ft.
No charge for measures or sample check outs Flooring & Interiors
1170 Burnett Ave., Ste. E, Concord
925-686-9901
Contra Costa Floors Showroom hours: M-F 9-5 Sat 10-4
Doug Van Wyck
There are also benefits now.
CLU ChFC, Agent Insurance Lic. # 0586396
I’ll show you how life insurance can come in handy for more immediate family needs, like college.
6200 Center St. Ste. A Clayton, CA 94517
925-672-2300 www.dougvanwyck.com
GET TO A BETTER STATE.® CALL ME TODAY.
No job is too big or too small. For a free estimate give us a call.
925-777-3440
Jake Pauline, Owner Clayton Resident
www. B lack D iamond E lectric.com Ca. License # 724171
State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) Bloomington, IL 1203076
Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 29, 2012
Father and Daughter Owned & Operated
T HE H OUSE
OF
Spicy Summer specials include Camarones Vallarta & Camarones in Mango sauce
P IPIAN
F INE D INING
Don’t miss out on our unique & delicious desserts Free appetizer or dessert with this ad (no reproductions accepted)
Like us on Facebook
For reservations
Vegetarian, vegan friendly & gluten free Adelio and Ivalina
(925) 914-0395
2118 Mt. Diablo St., Concord
memoscuisine.com
Bruce & Zoey Specializing in all your Painting Needs Exterior *Interior *Pressure Washing Cabinets *Wood Staining/ Treatments Contact us for a free quote
17 years experience Family owned and operated, CLAYTON RESIDENT Phone 925.682.2202
Copapainting.com
Lic #822946
We repair all major appliances, most major brands, and we’re local
35 years Experience Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer Clayton residents Office: (925) 672-2700 Cell: (925) 956-8605 State of California B.E.A.R
l
license #A44842
http://ApplianceRepairsbyBruce.com
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JULY 3 FOR THE JULY 13 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
IN CLAYTON June 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28 Farmers’ Market 8 a.m. – noon, Saturdays, Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown, pcfma.com/clayton. July 4 Pancake Breakfast and Parade Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotary pancakes at 7 a.m., Endeavor Hall. Parade at 10 a.m. on Main Street, Clayton. July 6 “Tin Tin” Moonlight movies in Clayton. Activities for kids at 7:30 p.m., movie at 8:45 p.m. Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main St., Clayton. claytoncc.com. July 7, 12, 21, 26 Concerts in the Grove 6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3. July 13 “Kung Fu Panda 2” Moonlight movies in Clayton. Activities for kids at 7:30 p.m., movie at 8:45 p.m. Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main St., Clayton. claytoncc.com.
EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Thru July 21 “Vaudeville” A hilarious play with music by Laurence Carr. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $25-$30. willowstheatre.org. 798-1300. June 30 Community Partners Fair & Open House Vendor displays, electronic waste drop off, games. Learn about community volunteer opportunities, other services and emergency equipment. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Salvation Army, 3950 Clayton Road, Concord. Admission is one can of food per person. diablovalleycommunitypartners.com. June 30 Grown Women Dance Collective Honoring African American musical artists that have died since the year 2000, but will inspire us for generations to come. 8 p.m. Willows Theatre, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $20. willowstheatre.org. 798-1300.
FUNDRAISERS July 14 Poker Night Benefit tournament supporting Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista programs. 5 p.m. Free instruction and check in. 6 p.m. Tournament. Concord Moose Lodge, 1805 Broadway St., Concord. $60 buy-in. Contact Sue Manning at bsming@aol.com or 672-2727. July 23 Golf Tournament Clayton Valley Athletic Boosters sponsor 21st annual golf tournament benefiting all sports programs at CVCHS. 9:30 a.m. Check in. 11:30 a.m. Shotgun start. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. Contact Matt Hill at 338-1101 or athleticboosters@claytonvalley.org. cvhsboosters.org.
AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. claytonlibrary.org or 673-0659. Wednesdays Book Buddies A volunteer will read stories for children 3 and older. 1-2 p.m. Tuesdays thru Aug. 14 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. 11 a.m. Thursdays thru Aug. 16 Picture Book Time Story time for 3 to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. 11 a.m. July 9 CERT Emergency preparedness seminar. 7 – 9 p.m. July 11, 18, 25 Teen Gaming Programs Play Wii games, Mario Kart, Raving Rabbids: TV Party and Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Please bring your own nunchucks on July 18 and 25. 4 – 5:30 p.m. July 16, 23 Dream Big Fun Days Stories, games, creative activities for ages 7 to 10. Drop in 2–3pm.
June 30 A Musical Odyssey Vocal music from four periods of music history featuring Everlita Rivera-David, soprano. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469.
July 18 Writers Workshop Grades 6 – 12. Led by children’s authors Sarah Wilson and Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff. Registration required.
July 4 Walnut Creek Concert Band Bring a picnic and celebrate America’s birthday and 25th year of the Walnut Creek Concert Band. 6 p.m. Civic Park, 1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Free.
1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
July 14 Make Our Garden Grow Festival Opera benefit concert featuring favorite singers from previous productions with current performers and the Festival Opera Chorus in a program of arias and ensembles highlighting the opera’s first 20 years. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $100 and $250. festivalopera.org. July 16 Pelvic Floor Strengthening Breathing techniques and fun exercises for strengthening the pelvic floor and firming the core. 10 – 11 a.m. John Muir Health Women’s Health Center, 1656 N. California Blvd., Walnut Creek. $3 for exercise band. Register at johnmuirhealth.com/classes or 941-7900. July 16 – Aug. 19 “A Doll’s House” When the illusions of their marriage are exposed, Nora Helmer leaves her husband and children to forge a new identity. Willows Theatre, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $18-$36. willowstheatre.org. 798-1300.
CHURCHES AND RELIGION July 1 Ice Cream Social All are welcome for an ice cream social and entertainment by the East Bay Banjo Club. 11:30 a.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. 672-4848. July 5 Blood Drive Second annual Interfaith Community Blood Drive. 1 – 7 p.m. Saint Bonaventure Catholic Community, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Schedule appointment at redcrossblood.org. (800) 7332767.
GOVERNMENT
2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Clayton Business and Community Association Meets 6:30 p.m. last Thursday of the month except holidays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Call Sue at 672-2272. Clayton Valley Garden Club Meets 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, February through November. July 11 speaker: Jim Hale, wildlife biologist. Topic: Wildlife in our backyards. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. claytonvalleygardenclub.org. Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. second Tuesday of the month except July and August, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. 672-9448. Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association Meets 6 p.m. first Saturday of the month for a potluck. Open to members and guests. CMDTRA, 1600 Trail Ride Road, Clayton. cmdtra.org or cmdtra@yahoo.com. Contra Costa Chess Club Meets 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck’s, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. ccchess.com or contact Mike at 639-1987. Creekside Artists Guild Meets 7-8:30 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Library Story Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. All artforms and both emerging and experienced artists welcome. Contact Arlene at nielsenjanc@aol.com, creeksideartists.org or call 673-9777. Diablo Valley Democratic Club Meets 7-9 p.m. third Wed. of the month, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road., Walnut Creek. dvdems.org, 946-0469. Knights of Columbus Meets 7:30 p.m. first Tuesday of the month, St. Bonaventure Church, Ministry Center, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Art 6721850, shanone@comcast.net or Chuck 849-5466, cecooper3@comcast.net. MOMS Club of Concord/Clayton Meeting dates vary. 331-0674, concordclaytonmomsclub@hotmail.com or concordclaytonmomsclub.webs.com. Oakhurst Business Network Meets 5 – 7 p.m. first Thursday of the month for social hour. Hosted hors d’oeuvres, cash bar. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Dr., Clayton. oakhurstcc.com. Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Includes breakfast and a speaker. claytonvalleyrotary.org or 566-8166. Scrabble Club Meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. All ages and skill levels welcome. $3. scrabble-assoc.com or call Mike at 639-1987. Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista Meets 12:15 p.m. second, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month, September-June, Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Contact Nicole at 692-2224. Veterans of Foreign Wars Breakfast 8-11 a.m. second and fourth Sundays of the month, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. $4, $2 children under 12.
Claycord 4-H The group meets 6:45 p.m. second Tuesday of the month, Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Road, Concord.
Ygnacio Valley Republican Women Meets third Wednesday of the month, except June, July, August. 10 a.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. Reservations required for lunch. $25. 672-5061.
Mayor, from page 1
flowed into the hallway. During the past year, the city recognized more than 50 students living the traits of courage, integrity, responsibility, respect, kindness and self-discipline. The Clayton Business and Community Association continued its program of awarding monetary scholarships to worthy college-bound students. To be considered for a scholarship, each student must write an essay, have an exceptional grade-point average and pass an interview conducted by the CBCA Scholarship Committee. We have wonderful children in our community that make us proud. These children know the difference between right and wrong. They care about their peers, their future, their community and about our future.
parade, please contact city clerk Laci Jackson to volunteer for crowd control, cleanup or barricade duty. Laci can be reached at 673-7304. A small donation also is always appreciated to help defray the cost to celebrate our freedom. The Fourth of July brings out the patriotism in all of us as we don our red, white and blue. The star–spangled banner flies and cheering crowds line our streets. Elected officials ride down Main Street in convertibles. The highlight of our parade is always the hundreds of children with painted faces and patriotic clothing riding bikes with furled streamers. Moms and Dads pushing baby carriages
with our future generation are also proud to be part of this great day. There will be floats from community organizations and horseback riders to remind us of our heritage. Background music will offer up famous patriotic songs as our master of ceremony gives tribute to those who pass the grandstand. This is an event you should not miss. At the last City Council meeting, I was once again privileged to give certificates of recognition honoring local youth selected by their teachers for “Doing the Right Thing.” We recognized 18 students chosen for their acts of courage. A packed house of proud parents and friends over-
Once again, the CBCA will be collecting for the VESTIA program. Joan Culver and Sue White lead the charge with their dedicated committee. They are looking for donations of backpacks and school supplies to distribute to less fortunate students. Please call 672-2272 to donate or obtain further information about this very worthwhile program. I am so thankful that almost 40 years ago, fate brought me to Clayton. I am grateful to serve as mayor of a community of caring people who donate when they can to those less fortunate. I am proud to reside in a community that publicly honors its children. We can all be proud to live in one of the best small cities in America. Send questions and comments to Councilmangeller@aol.com.
June 29, 2012
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Now available from Rising Moon
Performing Arts
Volunteers unite to support performing arts Concord Mayor Ron Leone and a team of dedicated volunteers celebrated the establishment of a new non-profit umbrella fundraising organization for the performing arts in Concord last week. The Concord Associates for the Performing Arts (CAPA) hosted a ribbon-cutting and reception on June 18 at the Willows Theatre. “The performing arts add so much to our community, both to the quality of life and to our economic vitality,” says Leone. “In these tough economic times, my hope is that CAPA will be able to support programs such as our downtown music series and the Willows Theatre, among others. We also are looking forward to the day when we can bring music and dance into the schools.”
Casting call for two Butterfield 8 productions
For more information, MaureenTheresa Williams, (925) 708-5074.
Rachel Joyce may not be a household name to American readers, but that could change when “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” hits bookstores in July. Joyce, a pilgrim of sorts, has journeyed through a 20-year acting career and an award-winning stint as a playwright for UK radio and television – now stepping smartly onto the road as a novelist. Harold Fry, husband and
“Vaudeville: A Play with Music” and “Pancake Hollow Primer: a Hudson Valley Story”
carpool@pacbell.net
THOSE CELEBRATING THE LAUNCH OF CAPA include, from left, Paul Nelson, Rocci Barsotti, Ken Dami, Tania Brugger, Kelly McGinnis, Mayor Ron Leone, Scott Singley, Tonya Amos, Tim McGallian and David Faustina.
“I’m very excited about this group of people who have stepped forward to raise funds to preserve one of our community’s most treasured assets – the performing arts,” said CAPA
president Kelly McGinnis. Board members include Tania Brugger, Dirk Wentling, Kenneth Dami, Tim McGallian, Scott Singley, Patti Barsotti, Paul Nelson, David Faustina, Tonya
Amos, Cindy Goga, Scott Ellis and Clayton Pioneer editor Tamara Steiner. For more information about CAPA, contact McGinnis at 2851749.
the Bay Area-based Keisler Ensemble, a group seven musicians. She is the conductor and artistic director. A native of Oxford, England, Hofman studied at Cambridge University, the Royal Academy of Music and the Eastman School of Music. She is married to Christian Baldini, an internationally recognized composer and conductor who leads the UC Davis Symphony Orchestra. They have two sons under the age of 4.
MATILDA HOFMAN
The Diablo Symphony, the oldest orchestra of professionally trained musicians in Contra Costa County, has a new artistic director-conductor just in time for the symphony’s 50th anniversary. After a yearlong screening process, symphony musicians selected Matilda Hofman, 33, a lecturer in the UC Davis music department. Her work as a conductor ranges from opera and symphonic repertoire to contemporary music. She will lead the Diablo Symphony beginning in October for the kickoff of the 2012-’13 five-concert 50th anniversary season at the Lesher
Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. Five finalists competed to replace Joyce Johnson Hamilton, who retired last year after serving as artistic director and conductor for 30 years. Hofman becomes the sixth conductor of the Diablo Symphony since its founding in 1962. In addition to symphony orchestras, Hofman has conducted operas throughout Europe and was assistant conductor at Sacramento Opera. She is a regular guest conductor of the Empyrean Ensemble at UC Davis and the Bay Area’s Left Coast Chamber Ensemble. In 2003, Hofman formed
Join Fry as he takes life’s journey on the road
FOR THE BOOKS
(Winner of the Next Generation Indie Book Award)
925-672-8717
Book Review
SUNNY SOLOMON
Two Books by
Laurence Carr
Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations
New conductor to lead Diablo Symphony for 50th anniversary
Butterfield 8 Theatre Company in Concord is looking for men and women to fill roles in the upcoming productions of Oliver Goldsmith’s “She Stoops to Conquer” and Shakespeare’s “Othello.” The roles of Hastings and Tony Lumpkin in “She Stoops…” are for men in their 20s and 30s. “Othello” will be a crossgender cast with men playing women’s roles and women in men’s roles. All parts are for actors between 20 and 35. Othello and Iago are pre-cast. Rehearsals for “She Stoops to Conquer” begin Sept. 9. Performances are Oct. 22 through Nov. 4. “Othello” rehearsals begin Jan. 28, 2013 and the show runs Feb. 28 through Mar. 24. All performances are at Cue Productions Live in Concord. Actors who would like to be considered for these roles should email headshot and resume to 8butterfield@gmail.com, or mail hard copies to Butterfield 8 Theatre Company, Casting, 3101 Ellis St., Berkeley, CA 94703-2409.
Page 15
father, is a most ordinary man. At the age of 65, he has just received a brief note of goodbye from a woman with whom he once worked but has not seen for 20 years. Queenie Hennesy is dying of cancer and Harold, moved to near-tears, reluctantly recalls why her dying so touches him. He writes a brief, inadequate note, puts it in an envelope and tells his wife he’s off to post the note. His wife asks, “Will you be long?” Unaware that his pilgrimage is about to begin, he answers, “I’m only going to the end of the road.” While other reviewers have compared the novel to “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” I found it more a modern “Canterbury
Tales,” with a hospice care facility 600 miles away in Berwick upon Tweed as a destination rather than Canterbury Cathedral. Fry gathers other pilgrims, some for no more than a brief encounter and others who journey with him for a period of time. From them he learns about believing in that which is beyond belief, that Queenie will live because he is walking to see her. Fry’s journey takes him to more than cities, rivers, sheds to sleep in or highways to avoid; it takes him inward: to himself, his wife, his son. He is not a great thinker or planner, a man not even up to trading in an old pair
See Book Review page 17
Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 29, 2012
Turmeric is just the ray of sunshine curry needs
Lawn & Plant Installation Paver Patio & Walkway Retaining Walls Drainage Low Voltage Lighting
mix of spices and the name probably is of Tamil (south Indian) origin. Depending on the cook or manufacturer, curry powders can be blazing hot or pleasingly mild. You can buy them ready-made or make them yourself, such as with this recipe:
925-672-9955
HOMEMADE CURRY POWDER
FREE ESTIMATES
www.nicholslandscape.com Boyce Nichols - Owner
Lic. 542812 Fully Insured
Clayton Resident
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
While traveling this past week, I eagerly devoured the only source of daily news available to me: USA Today. One day, Ellie Krieger of Food Network fame had a small column about pairing food and spices to extract the optimum nutrition from the combination. One of her recommendations was to combine fish and curry powder to enhance the benefits of fish oil, a compound linked to cardiovascular health. However, Krieger’s “yellow curry powder” recommendation is misleading and widely misunderstood among those who do not cook with Indian spices. First of all, there is no “curry” that can be ground into a powder. There is a plant that yields curry leaves – another ingredient in Indian cooking. Curry is a term that means a
2 T. whole cumin seeds 2 T. whole cardamom seeds 2 T. whole coriander seeds 1 T. whole yellow mustard seeds 1 tsp. whole fennel seeds ¼ c. ground turmeric 1 tsp. ground cayenne pepper This recipe yields about ½ cup of moderately hot spice. Combine the ingredients and store tightly covered until ready for use. Grind in a spice grinder or in a mortar and pestle before use. If you plan to use the mixture immediately, toast the seeds in a dry skillet until aromatic, then grind together with the other ingredients for the best flavor. ALL ABOUT TURMERIC Turmeric is the yellow component of Krieger’s curry powder. Turmeric’s active phytonutrient compound is curcumin, which is widely studied these
Contractors Lic #879423 Arborist Lic WE-7372A
Organilco, red Co Mulch Presented by Waraner Tree Experts We’ve moved, check out our retail yard at Concord Garden 2451 Monument Blvd. in Concord
Things get really corny in June DEBRA J. MORRIS PCFMA
Independence Day is just around the corner, and it’s time to pick up a bushel of sweet
Brentwood corn and get out the grill for your July 4th gatherings. Ghiggeri and Stonebarger Farms will have both white and yellow corn at the farmers mar-
days as an anti-inflammatory agent potentially useful in preventing heart disease, degenerative brain disorders and some cancers. It’s believed that turmeric was first grown in the Indian subcontinent about 2,500 years ago, spreading north into China, south into Malaysia and west into Africa within a few hundred years. It was adopted in Europe after the travels of Marco Polo, who recommended it as an inexpensive substitution for saffron in cooking. Turmeric is a rhizome (underground branch of a plant) that may have originally been cultivated for use as a dye and cosmetics and then later used as a spice. It figures prominently in Ayurvedic and Chinese herbal medicine. To use it in food, however, it must be boiled, dried and ground into a powder. It is possible to find fresh turmeric rhizomes in Indian and Pakistani groceries, but most of the time it is available only in ground form. I think
that it loses a lot of its flavor when not freshly ground. Because of that, it’s best use is as a colorant in food. It’s what gives ballpark mustard its bright yellow color. When freshly prepared, turmeric tastes peppery and bitter and has a mild fragrance that reminds one of orange and ginger. Add it to give a bold yellow color to foods – egg salad, for instance. Toss cauliflower with ground turmeric, salt and pepper and a little olive oil and roast at 350 for about 20 minutes or until tender. Add turmeric to lentil soups and stews to enhance earthiness. Include turmeric in salad dressings and dips to give them an appealing orange-yellow hue. Or, follow Krieger’s advice and sprinkle turmeric on salmon just before pan-roasting it.
ket. Packed in ice, the freshpicked ears arrive straight from the fields. G&S offers them fresh because, once picked, the sugar in corn begins to turn to starch and the corn loses some of its sweetness. Located in Brentwood, G&S has been in the family since 1935. Emilio Ghiggeri planted the first sweet corn there in 1945. Today, Emilio’s son, Roy, runs the farm, along with Emilio’s son-in law, Glenn Stonebarger. The two farm about a thousand acres. “Farming is a way of life. I enjoy being out in the fresh air and environment,” says Roy Ghiggeri. “We enjoy going to the farmers markets because of
the interaction we receive with the consumers on a one-to-one basis. It feels really great to supply the consumer with a truly fresh product. My children love it, and I enjoy exposing them to this wonderful way of life.”
Linda Wyner, a local attorney and foodie, owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@pansonfire.com
EASY CORN SALAD 2 c. fresh corn kernels 1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved 1 small can sliced olives 2 green onions, chopped ½ red onion, diced Italian salad dressing Mix all ingredients and chill two hours.
Lighting magic is a three-step process 925-250-0334
JENNIFER LEISCHER
DESIGN DIVA
CLEANING HOUSE IS A WASTE OF OF SUMMER. SUMMER. perfectly good WASTE
Leave the cleaning to The Maids. We come highly recommended.
SAVE $25 OFF
YOUR FIRST CLEANING. Call now to receive a free, no-obligation estimate
925-798-6243 Owned by Clayton residents.
www.MAIDS.com ®
New customers only. Not valid with other offers.
Referred for a reason.
Have you ever noticed that you look a few pounds lighter with new garments on in the dressing room of your favorite clothing store? Or that your skin looks flawless as it reflects in the mirrors at a department store make-up counter? How about when visiting the ladies room at a swanky restaurant and you see that your hair has taken on an amazing sheen? All of this sorcery is due to good – really good – lighting. To reproduce this wonderful illumination in your home, use fixtures from each basic lighting category: general, accent and task.
General lighting is typically a fixture or two, usually on the ceiling, that cast a wide, undefined shower of light. The fixture can be decorative, but its purpose is to illuminate the confines of a living space. Dimmers are great for fixtures in this category. Controlling the amount of light cast is the first step to achieve a living space that literally glows.
Accent lighting can be decorative in design as well as decorative in the way its light is used: table lamps that flank a sofa, a pair of candlestick lamps on a buffet or fireplace mantel, a floor lamp next to a piano, sconces on either side of a living space entry, picture lamps highlighting artwork, recessed lighting strategically placed to highlight a specific
A SIMPLE CHANGE IN LIGHTING can take a living space from ordinary to one that literally glows.
area or wash a wall … the list goes on. Task lighting is the workhorse category, used to illuminate an area where a specific task needs to be carried out. This could be under-cabinet lighting in a kitchen, hidden lighting in an entertainment cabinet, step lights on a stairwell, a desk lamp, or a reading lamp next to a lounge chair. The key to good lighting is not to rely on one fixture to do the job of many. Consider the ambiance you want to achieve and, one by one, add fixtures until the living space feels “full” of light with different degrees of illumination. Think in terms of layering, starting from the ceiling and working down to table lamps, acknowledging areas that are dark or dull – and making them glimmer. Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com
June 29, 2012
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 17
With a little legwork, heavenly vistas await Put this Mitchell Rock hike on your “bucket list,” because if outdoor adventures are your thing, this is one not to miss. Begin hiking on Mitchell Canyon Road from the parking area and make your first left onto Mitchell Rock Trail. This trail becomes a steep climb almost immediately, which is a good indicator of what is to come. Continue uphill until you reach the intersection of trails, making a right on Mitchell Rock Trail to Eagle Peak Trail. This single-track trail follows a hiker-friendly route up to Mitchell Rock. The elevation gain comes very quickly as the trail points back toward Mitchell Canyon as you reach your first destination, Mitchell Rock. Continue on Mitchell Rock Trail. This portion of the hike is beautifully cut into the hillside, with trees and brush falling away into the canyons below. Pine trees give way to California sagebrush. After a
Mitchell Rock to Twin Peaks to Back Creek Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Staging Area (end of Mitchell Canyon Road) Distance: about 4 miles
Getting there: From Clayton Road, head south on Mitchell Canyon Road until the road ends. Parking fee required.
certain many will recommend Joyce’s book to others and I suspect that those who follow such recommendations will, at some point in the narrative, stop to think about that person and wonder what part of the story they liked best. Of course, it is Harold Fry’s journey, but it is also my journey and that of my friend who recommended it. And it will be yours by the time you finish reading it.
Book Review, from page 15 of yachting shoes for more appropriate hiking boots. But in the weeks it takes him to walk 600 miles, he sees more than the English countryside for the first time. Fry is a man most comfortable with his anonymity, but that is lost when the story of his journey hits the papers and goes
viral on Twitter. Harold Fry no longer walks just to keep Queenie alive; he walks to find his truth, which he must reach before Queenie’s death. I suppose that every person who reads this novel will become a fellow pilgrim. I’m
Social Security & Medicare Workshop
series of sweeping switchbacks, you reach the saddle with views of Twin Peaks in the background. You can see Twin Peaks up to your left at elevations of 1,507 feet and 1,733 feet. Grind up another half dozen severe switchbacks, bringing you closer to the summit of Twin Peaks. The trail winds its way into a shady maze of dense brush as your hard work transforms to satisfaction upon reaching another vista point. You are now right below the higher of the Twin Peaks. A quick side trip to your left will reveal inspiring views of Donner Canyon and Meridian Ridge Road in the distance. Continue on Mitchell Rock Trail toward the base of Twin Peaks for the final push uphill. Clayton, Concord, Eagle Peak and Black Point can easily be seen from this peak. The last section of Mitchell Rock Trail is the most enjoyable, in my opinion. The trail “pits” and “peaks” on a thin
ridgeline intersecting Uncle Sam and Donner canyons, drawing you toward Eagle Peak. Once you reach the Eagle Peak junction, head left on Eagle Peak Trail to Back Creek Road. Eagle Peak Trail slowly descends into Donner Canyon with a series of long switchbacks, which spiral through a heavy thicket of California sagebrush. As the trail descends toward Back Creek, almost all in the shade I might add, the trail becomes peppered with pine and blue oak trees. Follow Coulter Pine Trail, heading back toward the Mitchell
We will all know ourselves and each other a little more after reading “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry.”
KEVIN PARKER
HIKER’S HAVEN Canyon Trailhead and finishing the loop. I was able to complete this hike in just more than two hours on a weeknight after work. For more information on this hike or other outdoor experiences, contact Kevin at hikershaven@claytonpioneer.com.
L SPECIA
f f O % 0 1 ton for Clay only s t n reside
Remodeling Specialist Kitchens Bathrooms Windows Mouldings Decks Siding Painting interior & exterior We accept credit cards. Kevin Schmidt, Clayton Resident Family Owned and Operated
925-822-5144 738 Bloching Circle, Clayton
license 962284
Sunny Solomon is the former Book Lady from Clayton Books and currently heads up the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to "talk books."
“We love our new fireplace! Kevin and his team did a fabulous job both designing and building it. Not only was their work top notch, but they also took the time to explain each step and provide daily updates on how things were going. It was, by far, one of the smoothest home improvement projects we have undertaken. We would highly recommend Diablo View Construction to anyone who wants high quality work done in a professional manner!” – Jennifer Lowe, Clayton
DiabloViewConstruction.com
541 Hamburg, Clayton
$481,000
Tax relief on mortgage debt forgiveness ends Dec. 31, 2012.
Fantastic Ranch Style two-story home located on a corner lot in an ideal neighborhood. Upgrades throughout the home. Spacious backyard with an inground pool & water fall. House has huge potential. Needs TLC. Walking distance to downtown Clayton! Great neighborhood and great schools.
SOLD
476 Obsidian, Clayton
THE REALITY
How Social Security works How individual & spousal benefits are calculated When benefits may begin Coordinating spousal benefits How benefits are taxed How Medicare works
Will Social Security be there for me? How much can I expect to receive? When should I apply for Social Security? How can I maximize my benefits? Will Social Security be enough to live on in retirement? Which Medigap Policy should I chose?
Tuesday, July 17 th
7:00 PM
Seating is limited! Call now to RSVP! 1026 Oak Street, Suite 200
Clayton, CA 94517
WE WANT YOUR LISTINGS!
$719,900
Beautifully kept neighborhood of Eagle Peak. Gorgeous 4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom, plus office. Private backyard with an in-ground pool and spa with waterfall. A MUST SEE!
Topics we will cover: THE BASICS
Call Mazzei Realty for more information.
(925) 672-7700
We are committed to serving the Clayton Community. Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Investors Capital Advisory.
627 Carpino Ave, Pittsburg $104,900
Upside down in your home and don’t know where to go?
Spacious Duplex! Each unit 2 bedroom/ 1 bathroom. Perfect investment property. PENDING
Give Mazzei Realty a call, WE WILL HELP!
1277 Poplar Dr., Oakley $320,000 PENDING Mazzei Realty welcomes Heather Carter to their team
Heather Carter
Diane and Bill Hayes
925-348-2492 heathccarter@gmail.com
DRE#01222762
Broker/Owner
925-890-4701 Dianemariehayes25@ yahoo.com
925-766-6745 mazzeirealty@yahoo.com
mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959
925-693-0757 (Main)
Matt Mazzei, Jr.
DRE# 01881269
6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton
925-693-0752 (Fax)
Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Candles Make Scents Two-wick, soy wax candles
Summer simply smells good
Warmers & accessories, too
Call for FREE Catalog Free shipping on phone orders only
Call Kollette or Lee: 405-7199 Ashman Company Independent Distributors
www.candlesmakescents.net
June 29, 2012
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL Summer has officially begun, and I love this time of year. Each morning when I jog, I am delighted by the floral and woody scents of the various plants and shrubs. Some even conger up memories. The trailing white jasmine’s fragrance is especially sweet during the morning and evening hours. This common evergreen is readily planted throughout Clayton Valley landscapes and gardens. You can find it on fences, arbors, as hedges and groundcovers. With any application, the experience is delightful. Trailing white jasmine is sometimes called star jasmine. This evergreen needs full to partial sun, looks better with regular water and would appreciate some multi-purpose fertilizer every couple of months through the growing season. It also would be a good idea to give trailing white jasmine some iron in September so it has a better chance of staying green through the cold weather. TODAY IS THE DAY FOR LILIES Daylilies have a surprisingly subtle fragrance. A soft, per-
fumed scent will waft through your nose, and you’ll have to look around to find the source of the smell. Daylilies have a familiar-shaped flower, with flesh petals that radiate out from a large, dramatic stamen. Daylilies are available in many colors, from pastels to bold shades. They are fantastic for full to partial sun situations in the Clayton Valley. These days, you can enjoy large flowering daylily plants that grow 4-5 feet tall, or the dwarf selections that grow no more than a foot tall and wide. There is something for everyone in this family. Salvia Clevelandii Winifred Gilmen is commonly called musk sage. This evergreen is a California native that creates an earthy, woodsy smell. Every time I see it planted or when it comes into the nursery, I have to stop to smell the foliage. This plant remains fragrant year-long, since its leaves are fragrant rather than the flower. When blooming in summer, musk sage has a periwinkle colored, two-lipped flower that is born in a whirl shape. The hummingbirds and bees go crazy for this full sun evergreen.
The pure white flowers of this evergreen have an intoxicating fragrance that makes you want to bend down into the flowers a n d inhale.
The gardenia’s perfume is what summer fragrance is all about. Growing gardenias can be trying at first. Some of the selections are more forgiving of our climate than others, so growing can take some trial and error. Gardenia plants will need acidic soil, regular water, fertiliz-
er and additional iron throughout the growing season. Remove faded flowers by hand so as not disturb the bud below. Woody plants like to be cut back to encourage more dense growth. Gardenias need to be cared for in their early life. Give them some time now and they will thrive later. Summer isn’t only about the blooms from our perennial, roses and shrubs, but it is also about the fragrance. Scent invokes memories, so make your summers memorable. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden and the 2012 Clayton Valley Garden Club president. Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
Safety, from page 9 The “Move Over Law” went into effect in California in January. The 2012 California Drivers Handbook states: “Drivers are required to move over and slow down when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle or tow truck that is displaying flashing amber warning lights.” Also, the child restraint law has been changed, with the age limit raised from 6 to 8. The child must be restrained in a
GARDENIAS SYNONYMOUS WITH SUMMER
Gardenias are bursting into bloom throughout Clayton Valley landscapes and gardens.
Family owned & operated since 1981
child safety seat when riding in a motor vehicle. A child under age 8 who is 4 feet 9 inches or taller may be properly restrained by the seat belt rather than a child passenger restraint system. Have a great summer and safe driving! Clayton resident Harun Simbirdi is a member of the City of Clayton Citizen Corp Council, part of the CERT. Email him at simbirdi@yahoo.com.
Our passion is pets.
Local Local Clayton Clayton honey honey
23.99/bag
$
Rodie’s Gourmet Wild Bird Seed, 20 lb. Designed by Rodie’s for Rodie’s
From Rodie’s own hives. N Availow able
2 lb. Jar: $24.99 1.5 lb. Honey Bear Bottle: $19.99
3.29/gal
$
Got seasonal allergies? Our honey could help!
Now in Stock
California Natural Evo Innova
1.99 each
$
3 for
5
$
Pawsitively Gourmet Cookies Your doggie likes cookies, too! Open 7 days
Fag $ 5 OF #b 8.6 any 2 arger or l
(925) 672-4600
Mon - Fri 10 to 6
Sat 9 to 6
Sun 10 to 4
8863 Marsh Creek Rd. in Clayton
www.rodiesfeed.com