IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
925.672.0500
SMD scores big win with historic Curry Canyon Ranch purchase TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
JULIE PIERCE
MAYOR’S CORNER
Caldecott’s fourth bore ready for action After years of planning, leveraging local resources, and construction, I am proud to announce we are in the final days of our countdown to the opening of the Caldecott fourth bore tunnel. Barring last-minute changes between this writing and publishing this column, the tunnel will open to traffic in less than 10 days; sometime during the weekend of Nov. 16. Through collaborative management by Caltrans and our Contra Costa Transportation Authority, the tunnel will be open ahead of schedule and within the original budget, both significant achievements. State Route 24 currently carries about 160,000 vehicles daily through the three existing tunnels. Traffic congestion is experienced in the peak and off-peak directions. The new fourth bore will relieve congestion in the noncommute direction by permanently dedicating two bores to westbound traffic and two to eastbound traffic. This will eliminate the need to reverse traffic direction in the center bore twice a day to accommodate morning and evening commute traffic, and add greater predictability on weekends. The new tunnel has sophisticated fire-life-safety systems and intelligent technology and is designed to reopen to emergency traffic within 72 hours of a major earthquake. A state-of-the-art Operations and Maintenance Control building is under construction. The new facility will be the “nerve center” for the four Caldecott tunnels, as well as the Webster-Posey tubes in Alameda County. Your voter-approved Contra Costa Measure J sales tax dollars contributed $120.6 million to the $417 million total cost of the new
See Mayor page 18
Scott Hein
DESCRIBED BY SAVE MOUNT DIABLO AS “THE HEART OF MT. DIABLO,” CURRY CANYON RANCH INCLUDES MORE THAN A MILE of sandstone cliffs and wind caves. The $7.2 million, 1,100-acre property is the largest acquisition in the history of SMD and will ultimately be sold to the state of California to add to Mt. Diablo State Park.
Community welcomes home crash victim TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
CLAYTON MAYOR JULIE PIERCE CELEBRATES with crash victim Mark Tomaszewski (right) and his brother John Tomaszewski at a “home from the hospital” picnic and hike on Oct. 26.
A Brentwood man critically injured in a June 27 crash in front of City Hall was released from the hospital last week and celebrated with co-workers, firstresponders, family and friends at a picnic in Castle Rock Park. Mark Tomaszewski, 51, suffered head trauma, serious internal injuries and multiple broken bones when he was hit head-on by an alleged drunk driver who witnesses say was texting at the time of the crash. A smiling Tomaszewski, who doesn’t remember anything of the crash, said he has been “blown away” by the “unbelievable” community support following the crash. “He is making a remarkable
recovery,” says his brother, John. “He just wasn’t going to give in. Mark just keeps going.” Tomaszewski, a surgical tech at the Sequoia Surgical Center in Walnut Creek, was headed east on Clayton Road about 5:40 p.m. on June 27, when a Toyota Corolla driven by Jessica Mercurio, 21, crossed over the median and hit him head-on. Witnesses say she had been drinking at the Clayton Club. Toxicology reports show her blood alcohol level at more than three times the legal limit. According to sources close to the case, Mercurio spent some time in a residential alcohol treatment facility after the crash. She is scheduled for arraignment in Superior Court on Dec. 9 at 8:30 a.m. on charges of felony DUI causing serious injury. She faces up to eight years in prison.
New MDUSD supe ready to tackle tough issues PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer
DR. NELLIE MEYER
Dr. Nellie Meyer has one goal in her new job: she wants to ensure that every classroom in Mt. Diablo Unified School district is somewhere she would be proud to send her own daughter.
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Behind the Badge . . . . . . . . .6 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
It’s a big task for the new MDUSD superintendent, who took over in September, just in time to guide the district of 50plus schools through some rough waters, including implementing a new core curriculum, dealing with a nasty teacher sex abuse case, and ongoing issues of trust between the district, its
employees, parents and the group Meyer calls the most important, the students. It is perhaps the breadth of the district — its size and diversity — that is seen as the biggest problem among parents, yet Meyer says it’s that quality that lured her from her job as deputy superintendent of school sup-
Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Community Calendar . . . . .16 Concord City Beat . . . . . . . .6 Design and Décor . . . . . . . .19 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5 Doctor’s Orders . . . . . . . . . . .9 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . .8
Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . .20 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Holiday Shopping Guide . . .10 Letters to the Editor . . . . . . .7 Mind Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .17
port services for San Diego Unified School District, to one of the biggest districts in the Bay Area, and one of the most problematic. “This is a huge challenge for me,” she said in an interview with the Pioneer. “My goal is to
See Meyer page 6 Police Activity Report . . . . . .6 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sports Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Teen Reads . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Voyage of the Eagle . . . . . . .8 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . .20
More than 1,000 acres of pristine open space – the “heart” of Mt. Diablo – has been added to the protected lands owned and managed by Save Mount Diablo in one of the organization's most important land acquisitions in its history. Seth Adams, lands program director for SMD, surprised audiences at a Wednesday night event at the Lesher Center with the announcement that the organization had purchased the historic 1,080-acre Curry Canyon Ranch from Ettore and Geraldine Bertagnolli for $7.2 million. The acquisition is the biggest in both cost and size in the organization’s 43-year history of aggressively protecting open space from development. It has been a top priority acquisition for the past 25 years. See Curry
Canyon page 3
Veterans deserve more than just one day
CARLIE BEESON
PINE HOLLOW REPORTER Veteran’s Day is an occasion to celebrate and thank military personnel for all of their hard, dangerous and unforgettable work to protect our country. On average, about two military members die trying to save another’s life every day. When I see a member of the Armed Forces in uniform, I say to myself, “Wow! I actually get to see someone who is making a difference in the world.” I am joyful to see that they are back home, safe and with their loved ones. I feel proud to know that I could meet someone who would give up their life so I could live a better one. See Veterans
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Postal Customer ECRWSS PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
Around Town Steve and Cindy Barton welcome first grandchild
Pioneer Travels
Clayton Realtors team up with local food bank
Machu Piccu
Avid travelers Brenda and Scott Righter scratched one item off their long bucket list in September when we all went to Machu Picchu, Peru. Brenda says she is not sure what was more amazing, the Andes Moun-
Maui
tains or Machu Picchu, the site of Inca civilization built around 1450 and rediscovered in the early 1900s. Brenda says, “Planes, taxis, trains, buses, walking - all modes of transportation were used to get to this beautiful site of Incan ruins, but all the effort was worth it. It was an incredible site to behold.” (We stowed away in the backpack and let them do all the work).
A very excited Steve and Cindy Barton, Clayton Club owners, welcomed their first grandchild on Oct. 2. Leo Westley Barton was born in Winnetka, Calif. His parents are Michael and Bethany Barton.
Cuba WINDERMERE LYNNE FRENCH & ASSOCIATES COLLECTED 1,849 POUNDS OF FOOD for the Food Bank of Contra Costa as part of Windermere’s annual Community Service Day. Pictured are (Back): Kelly McDougall, Julie Dunn, Angelique Booth, Carol van Vaerenbergh, Marybeth Cook and Bonnie Manolas; (Front): Lynne French, Heather Gray, Michelle Gittleman, Inge Yarborough and Mike Davis
For the fifth year in a row, Clayton’s Windermere Lynne French & Associates helped out the hungry in Contra Costa County by participating in Windermere Real Estate’s Community Service Day. The office staff and agents collected more than 1,800 pounds of food for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties, which they delivered on Oct. 18..
“Participation in this way is a civic duty that goes to the greater good of our community,” says French. “We all need to contribute in whatever way we can, no matter how small. Everything you do is significant.” The staff and agents exceeded last years result, bringing in 1,849 pounds of food. Food bank employees said they were “glad to see the smiling faces of
the team,” adding that the office is tuned in to the needs in the community. The food bank is always looking for volunteers, especially for the upcoming holiday season. Contact Windermere Clayton at 925-673-2188 to see how you can help. For more information on the Food Bank, go to foodbankccs.org.
325 Mount Palomar Pl. – Clayton
We weren’t going to let Dave Murray and daughters Andrea and Chelsea miss out on anything at home while they were in Maui last month. Here we are – all of us — getting very wet at the Nakalele Blowhole.
We paid close attention to Peggy Hooper and Sue Elliott last month when they took us on an educational trip to Cuba. We learned about the country, people, the arts and the food in Havana, Las Terrazas and Trinidad. Even had a little time to check out that old car in Cienfuegos.
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November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Curry Canyon, from page 1 "It is the single most important, spectacular resource property remaining in Contra Costa County," said SMD Executive Director Ron Brown. More than three miles wide with eight miles of fire roads, Curry Canyon Ranch is bordered on three sides by Mt. Diablo State Park. The acquisition will close the open space gaps between Rock City and Diablo’s main peak and will provide a connection to Highland Ridge. The property includes Windy Point, Knobcone Point and Cave Point, at 2080-feet, the ranch’s highest elevation. DIVERSE LANDSCAPE “This property is a ShangriLa of sycamore-lined creeks, lush canyons studded with house-sized boulders rising from a fragrant isolated valley to exposed grassland ridges, with incredible views, bor-
dered by a mile of rocky cliffs and wind caves," said Adams. “Its dry rocky areas look like Pinnacles National Park or the Mojave dessert. Its canyons could be the wet Pacific Northwest.” A jaw-dropping tour of the property with Adams and Brown took a full three hours. The property is home to more than 30 rare or threatened species, including the peregrine falcon, the Alameda whipsnake and the California tiger salamander. When California condors return to Mt. Diablo, it will likely be to Curry Canyon's knobcone cliffs. The Curry Canyon Ranch was in the path of the recent Morgan Fire, which burned more than 3,100 acres on Mt. Diablo. The property was threatened, but untouched by the fire that stopped a half mile short.
Standing at the top of Knobcone Point, Adams gazed out over the canyon toward the charred hills. “There are wildflowers that only bloom after a fire,” he said. “They’re called fire flowers. This place will be ablaze in the spring.” Curry Canyon Ranch is accessible only from Morgan Territory Road. The property begins at the Bertagnolli ranch house at the end of a private road. Save Mount Diablo plans to convert the house to an event center. Public tours of the property will begin next year, Adams said. Historically, Save Mount Diablo has acquired properties and then transferred them to park agencies. Curry Canyon Ranch has been on the state park priority list for decades.
But any funds that might have been available to buy it dried up in the recent economic downturn. So SMD will own and manage Curry Canyon Ranch until it can be transferred to the state – probably in phases over several years. The $7.2 million purchase loan must be paid off in three years. The Coastal Conservancy and a private foundation have committed $4.2 million. The rest will depend on individual donations. Save Mount Diablo is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to preserving open space. For more information, or to donate, visit SaveMountDiablo.org or call 925-947-3535. Offices are at 1901 Olympic Blvd., Suite 320, Walnut Creek, CA 94596.
Visit us online and Sign up today!
SCOTT HEIN
ACQUISITON OF THE 1,080-ACRE CURRY CANYON RANCH WILL CLOSE THE GAP between four major trails on Mt. Diablo and doubles the organization’s land holdings. The panoramic photo above is taken looking east from the summit of Mt. Diablo and shows the major landmarks that are a part of the SMD purchase. “The House” is at the end of Curry Creek Road and will be used as an event center for the organization.
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With our community’s help we collected 1,849 pounds of food for the FOOD BANK OF CONTRA COSTA.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
We’ll Put the World at Your Feet.
November 8, 2013
Eagle project helps beautify CV Charter High School The campus of Clayton Valley Charter High School just got a lot swankier, thanks to an Eagle Scout project by Clayton teen Konlan Rondini. Over the weekend of Oct.
26 and 27, Konlan, along with 12 fellow scouts from Troop 484, six CVCHS Public Service Academy students and a few adults, installed a French drain, widened a gravel walkway,
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EAGLE SCOUT KONLON RONDINI AND A SCORE OF VOLUNTEERS added their efforts to the ongoing beautification at CVCHS. Members of Eagle Scout Troop 484 and students from the Leadership Academy dug a trench and installed a drain.
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installed new benches and laid down 38 cubic yards of bark (which alone took about six hours using five wheel barrows). A representative from CVCHS’s landscape contractor TerraCare was on hand to make sure things were properly installed, and to help out if needed. The total cost of the project was $5,340. Konlan’s original budget was $5,700, so he did well coming in lower than he thought. The charitable fund of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise Rotary donated $300 and vendors discounted materials and supplies another $675. Vendors included Mt. Diablo Landscape in Concord, Ewing Irrigation in Pacheco, and Home Depot in Concord. Wally’s Rental Center provided the equipment. Pat Middendorf, director of operations for CVCHS, approved the project and served as the project beneficiary. Scout Leader Steve von Erhenkrook served as the Unit Leader.
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November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
City of Clayton now accepting applications for P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 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 Peggy Spear
We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse
PIONEER INFO
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SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $50/year and are for full year only.
News and Feature Writers The Clayton Pioneer is looking for news and feature writers who have a passion for community journalism. Assignments are made on a freelance basis. Writers must be local (Clayton or Concord residents), and have a polished, lively and interesting style. Send two short writing samples — a straight news story and a feature or profile to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Include contact information and a cover letter.
Classified GARDENING Flower Gardening by Nicole Hackett Perennial, ornamental, rose and container care. Keep your garden in flowers this year with monthly fertilizing and pruning visits. Email for consultation or details. Gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.
FOR LEASE Office and retail space for lease in Historic Clayton City Center: Village Oaks Center, 6200 Center St., Clayton. Call Nick Adamson at (408) 3718770, ext. 21.
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Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 La Veranda Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Financial, Insurance and Legal Services DuRee, Daniel – The Law Office of . . . . . . . . . . .210-1400 Littorno, Richard – The Law Office of . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Prosperitas Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7700 Sorensen, David – Wells Fargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . .296-3086 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-698-0000 Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242
CIRCULATION
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TRAILS AND LANDSCAPING COMMITTEE The “Trails and Landscaping Committee” comprised of up to 11 members is appointed by the Clayton City Council. This citizens committee advises the city council and city manager on maintenance, improvement and financial matters related to the 2007 Citywide Landscape Maintenance District (a community facilities district). The district has an annual budget to maintain the roadway and median public landscaped areas, public open space/hillsides of the city, annual weed abatement and seasonal fire break tasks, the Clayton fountain, and the trails system of the city.
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RESULTS
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Help Fight Hunger Anna Chan – AKA: The Lemon Lady needs your help! Weekly commitment appreciated. For more info and contact numbers, go to thelemonlady.blogspot.com. The Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter for two hours per month from 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays or Sundays. Call the museum at 672-0240 and leave your name.
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Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Minimum age 13. Minimum commitment is 6 months. Some training provided. Contact Arlene at 673-9777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com. Meals on Wheels Meals on Wheels is looking for volunteer drivers one day a week between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Make a tremendous difference to seniors in your community. Contact Sharon Fitzgerald at 932-8607 or sfitzgerald@mowsos.org today!
Groceries Doorstep Farmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .349-4568 Home and Garden Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Just Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-4747 Refresh Pool Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286-8601 The Floor Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .969-9890 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Optometry Foresight Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4100 Pet Services All Paws Dog Walking Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .332-8856 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276-5744 Pittsburg Pet Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodie's Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Geddes-Sinclaire, Christine – Alain Pinel . . . . . .286-7593 Howard, Don – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . .408-3184 Howard, Emily – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .408-1871 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Landgraf, Linda – Prudential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .876-0311 Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . . .567-6170 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness All Out Sports League, The Blaze . . . .blazetravelball.com Levity Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2995 Senior Services Chateau on Broadway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-1700 Courtyards at Pine Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-3900 Diamond Terrace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-5100 Montecito – Oakmont Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . .852-6702 Services, Other 1-800-Junkster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-586-5783 ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 Travel Celebrity Cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-456-7887 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840 Holiday Guide Clayton Business and Community Association . .672-2272 Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Contra Costa County Fall Faire . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-4400 Dana Hills Crafters Fair . . . . . . .shaunamaffei@gmail.com Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243
Kindness Do the Right Thing
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Police reorganization will help Concord stay safe Recently, Police Chief Guy Swanger shared some great news with the Concord City Council: Our city is a safe city. In his twice-yearly address to the council, Swanger gave some examples of how Concord is keeping its residents safe: The police department has a 91 percent recovery rate for stolen vehicles. This is an impressive recovery rate, and once recovered, these vehicles are returned to their rightful owners. The police department worked with internal and external partners increasing outreach to the homeless and performing a number of camp cleanups. This, plus the “Change 4 Real Change” initiative, resulted in a 44 percent drop in Concord’s homeless count this year when compared to last year. This startling drop shows what focus and partnerships can achieve. The new shopping cart recovery program is also showing stellar results with service pick-ups more than doubling from 716 in all of 2012 to 1,700 in the first nine months of 2013. The success of this program has been enhanced by the support it receives from the city’s volunteers. POLICE REORGANIZATION To continue to make progress on the public safety priorities of the city council, the chief also announced a reorganization to address his department’s priorities: gang/narcotic criminal activity, homeless-related crime and disorder, and family violence. Through analysis and study of crime trends, he has learned that being proactive will reduce crime down the line, which is why he is reorganizing the department to make the most effective use of resources within his department and partnerships outside his department: The Violence Suppression Unit (Special Investigations Bureau and Special Enforcement Team) will focus on particular hot spots as they come
up (such as gang activity at a school or a rash of burglaries), in addition to working prostitution and human trafficking issues. The Community Beat/Health Section will focus on homeless activities and street-level crimes and disorder. Intelligence and Crime Analysis will provide timely intelligence reports to support the work of the other two units. This function will soon have a full-time crime analyst that will work with the existing volunteer crime analysis group to provide vital information that will help pin-point when and where to deploy resources. Family violence prevention efforts and
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build communities among all the stakeholders, at each campus. “We are slowly coming back to life after a decade of cuts and bad financial situations,” she says. “Now I have to make sure that we supply the services and support to everyone — staff, teachers and students.” To that Meyer hopes to be a visible presence around the schools, helping where she can. “I want to show school communities that the district cares, and that we are devoted to preparing our kids for the future. I’d do what I’d expect a superintendent to do for my kids.”
CHRIS THORSEN
BEHIND
THE
BADGE
Over the last several weeks, we’ve responded to several calls regarding wild animals in Clayton. These calls have ranged from rattlesnakes in the garage, a bobcat being hit by a car and a resident potentially hunting turkey on his property. It’s unclear why there seem to be more calls lately, but it’s reasonable to assume the recent fire may have driven some animals to seek a new place to reside. Part of the beauty of Clayton is the easy access to nature and the beauty of Mt. Diablo. We live in what is often referred to as the “suburban/wildlife interface.” At times, this results in
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In light of the fact that Clayton Valley High transitioned to a successful charter school and Northgate High tried to move to the Acalanes district, it’s clear that many local parents are uncertain the district will be able to provide what they feel their children need. “My advice to those parents is to get involved, and help make the school a better place,” she says. “Ask me for help, but don’t give up.” She says that she sees qualities in successful schools like CVCHS and Northgate that she wants for every one in
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exploration of the feasibility of a Family Justice Center will also work out of this unit. All of these efforts are aimed at addressing city council’s areas of “priority focus” and getting ahead of public safety issues instead of reacting to criminal activity after the fact. It takes successful partnerships, strategic planning, thoughtful use of resources and commitment priorities to be successful. Our Concord Police Department has demonstrated it is up to the challenge. Crime and disorder in our city is a major concern. This is why the Concord City Council’s number one priority is public safety. The best way to demon-
RON LEONE
CONCORD CITY BEAT strate this is through our budget, which dedicates 60 percent of our expenditures going to our police department. Helping to create a safer place to live and raise our children is important for our economy as our well being. Ron Leone, a Concord city councilman and former mayor, welcomes comments and questions. Call him at (925) 680-1776 or ronaldleone@comcast.net.
It’s a wild, wild world in Clayton
Meyer, from page 1 “Preservation Award”
November 8, 2013
“wildlife/human conflicts.” In short, many of our neighborhoods abut natural habitat, sometimes the wildlife spills into neighborhoods. Often, this results in the wonderful experience of viewing nature from your back deck or out the kitchen window. On rare occasions, the wildlife causes significant damage to property and in extremely rare circumstances danger to our citizens. The Clayton Police Department will respond to assist our citizens with some animal calls. For example, we will respond for rattle snakes in your home or on your property. We will assist you in eradicating the snake in those circumstances. We won’t pursue snakes into the open space or kill them when they are in their natural habitat away from your home. We will not hunt, trap or otherwise control things like foxes, coyotes, bobcats, deer, boar or turkey. If your property is being damaged by nuisance wildlife, the California Department of Fish and Game can assist you. They recommend ways to dissuade wild life from visiting your property. In
some cases, you may obtain a predation permit. To obtain a predations permit, you must demonstrate the animals are causing property damage or are a danger to humans. Fish and Game can also refer you to professional trappers or hunters who can assist you in dealing with problem animals, they can be reached at 707944-5531. Taking wildlife without a permit can be a serious offense. Discharging firearms, pellet guns and other dangerous weapons within the city limits is prohibited. Additionally, there are Fish and Game restrictions on when and how animals may be taken. Consult with Fish and Game and research the matter thoroughly before harming wildlife. We’re fortunate to live and work in an area so close to nature. At times there’s conflict between humans and wildlife. In most cases, it’s best to watch and observe without disturbing the animals. This is the beauty of living in Clayton! Chris Thorsen is Clayton’s chief of police. For questions and comments, call him at (925) 673-7350.
MDUSD: excellent teaching, strong leadership, engaged parents, a sense of belonging and for students to have a voice. She also has supportive words for the community of Woodside Elementary School, where a fifth grade teacher was accused of sexually abusing students, and parents fear clues about the alleged behavior was covered up by the district. Meyer can’t talk much about the abuse case since it is a current legal proceeding, but she does say that she has spent time at Woodside and is thrilled by the resilience of the students, staff and parents. “It’s a great school, and I tell parents there what I will tell all parents — we must err on the side of caution
when dealing with possible abuse situations,” she says. “My philosophy is that it’s our obligation to report anything that causes concern, or that our intuition says isn’t right.” Meyer’s big academic challenge will come in presiding over the implementation of the new Common Core curriculum, which all state schools must adopt by next year. “I feel Common Core will help our students be prepared for life after high school, in whichever direction they want to go,” she says. “It’s not without flaws, and like everything new there will be some stress getting started, but ultimately I believe in it.”
Police Activity Report Police Activity for two weeks ending Oct. 31, 2013 ACCIDENTS Oct. 24, 12:55 p.m. Marsh Creek Rd./Zinfandel Cr. Oct. 27, 5:13 p.m. Tara Dr./Haviland Pl. Oct. 28, 3:35 p.m. Roundhill Pl. ARRESTS Oct. 19, 10:43 p.m. Clayton Rd./Ygnacio Valley Rd. A 28year-old Concord male was
arrested for disorderly conduct: alcohol; probation violation. Oct. 19, 11:10 p.m. Concord Blvd./Camino Estrada. A 23year-old Martinez female was arrested for DUI. Oct. 21, 1:07 a.m. Kirker Pass Rd./Clayton Rd. A 31-yearold Pittsburg male was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance; driving without a license; warrant. Oct. 22, 1 a.m. Kirker Pass Rd./Olive Dr. A 50-year-old Benicia male was arrested for
driving while license suspended; false identification to specific peace officer. His 54-year-old female passenger, also from Benicia, was arrested. Oct. 31, 1:45 a.m. Clayton Rd./Washington Blvd. A 35year-old Pittsburg male was arrested for DUI. BURGLARIES/THEFTS Oct. 18, Peacock Cr. Burglary – Vehicle. Oct. 23, Douglas Ct. Petty Theft. Oct. 27, 5400 Clayton Rd. Petty Theft. Oct. 31, 5400 Clayton Rd. Burglary – Commercial. VANDALISM None.
November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Letters to the Editor
Club News
Questions marksmanship honor
2013 CBCA Oktoberfest breaks records GARY CARR Special to the Pioneer
Good news flowed freely at the monthly meeting of the Clayton Business and Community Association, held at Oakhurst Country Club on Oct. 24. Treasurer John Garrett revealed that this year’s Oktoberfest achieved the highest gross receipts of any CBCA event ever held. Club President Keith Haydon recognized the efforts of Mary Ann Lawrence and Marilyn Schmidt, the cochairs of the event sponsored by the club, for an excellent time and thanked the committee chairs and club volunteers for their support. Although some bills are still outstanding, Garrett expects the success of Oktoberfest will enable the club to continue funding community projects at a level equal to previous years. Meanwhile, five CBCA members were elected to executive positions on the Board.
Gregg Manning was elected president, along with the following officers: Bob Steiner – first vice president of programs; Terry Garrett, second vice president of membership; Becca Kellenberger was re-elected as secretary and Marilyn Schmidt will take over as treasurer. CBCA helped brighten the holiday season for two worthy community causes. One is the Christmas for Everyone Program, a volunteer nonprofit whose goal is that no one in Contra Costa County should go hungry, be without a present, or be alone on Christmas. Last year, they provided services for more than 3,000 people in need. CBCA had provided funds earlier in the year to help replace kitchen supplies for Christmas for Everyone. At that time, someone broke in to the C for E facility and stole all the food, tables and kitchenware the group had stored for this year. The Grinch was later apprehended trying to sell the stuff at a local flea market.
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
A NEWLY ELECTED CBCA BOARD is ready to take on what promises to be a challenging 2014. From left, Gregg Manning, president; Bob Steiner, vice-president/programs; Terry Garrett, vicepresident/membership and Marilyn Schmidt, treasurer. Not pictured, Becca Kallenberger, secretary.
It was good news for the Concord Child Care Center, as well. CBCA approved a donation request from CCCC to help with its lunch program for children from low-income families in the county.
CBCA exists to benefit the entire Clayton community through fundraising activities and other events. To join CBCA or to volunteer for an event, call 925-672-2272 or visit www.claytoncbca.org.
I found the inclusion of the Oct. 25, article “Eagle-eyed CV senior earns marksmanship honor” disturbing and inappropriate … the last thing our country needs is to advertise support for gun culture. Even worse, to promote the notion that it’s a good thing for high school aged people to engage in such nonsense is irresponsible. Our future does not lay in teenagers learning how to shoot guns. Accomplishments in this “sport” should never find their way into a community newspaper. Even worse, for this prominent half-page pro-gun article I see no balancing article on meaningful academic activity within the Claycord community. Where is news about our high school students’ academic achievements? That is where our future lies. That is important news. Ray Spence Concord
Target practice on Mt. Diablo Simple target practice resulted in the largest fire on Mt. Diablo since 1977. The Morgan Fire cost $4.5 million to suppress, necessitated 1,300 responders, burned more than 3,000 acres, forced resident
evacuations, and had a tremendous impact on air quality and the health of our beautiful state park. Only weeks later, you can hear the “pop-pop-pop” of target practice that is taking place again on Morgan Territory Road in the Mt. Diablo foothills. Saying nothing of gun control issues and the personal opinions we hold, it’s plain irresponsible for Clayton residents and their guests to continue outdoor target practice in this high fire risk area. We need to implement guidelines and regulations around outdoor shooting to prevent future senseless fires that come at such a great expense. We can’t have campfires, refuse burning, or even fireplace fires on certain days, so why not prohibit outdoor shooting on high fire danger days? Community education around safe outdoor shooting, and monetary fines for expelling firearms on high fire danger days, will discourage reckless target shooting and hopefully reduce extreme fire danger. It’s incredible to think about the impact that one bullet had on an entire community and ecosystem. Let’s not let this happen again. Emily Lacroix Clayton
CLAYTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY The public is invited to the Nov. 12 meeting and potluck for the Clayton Historical Society at 6 p.m. at Diamond Terrace. Guest speaker for the evening is WWII veteran and railroad buff, Rod Plaisted, who was once Clayton’s deputy constable. The evening showcases the Historical Society’s and Museum’s contributions to the community. Learn more about
being a member or donor. The event is free and open to the public. Please bring an entree, side dish or dessert to share. Diamond Terrace is at 6401 Center Street, Clayton. For more information about the event, contact Steve Lane at 672-8325 or slane23@msn.com. For more information about the Clayton Historical Society and Museum, go to claytonhistory.org.
Community groups help Diamond Terrace get new sound system The Clayton Valley Garden Club has launched a community effort to raise funds for a new sound system for Diamond Terrace. For many years, the retirement community has generously donated use of space for community meetings. This past spring CVGC donated a microphone as its
annual gift to Diamond Terrace for use of their facilities. At the May CVGC meeting the newly gifted microphone was put to use, and to everyone’s surprise – it sounded terrible! Turns out, the original installation had problems. In October. CVGC launched a fundraising campaign among
community groups who also use the Diamond Terrace facility for their meetings to pay for a new system. To date, $3,020 has been secured of the $5,000 needed. Only $1980 remains to be raised. The goal is to have all funds raised by Dec. 25, so Diamond Terrace can receive a wonder-
ful holiday gift of a versatile, new and reliable P.A. system. To donate to the project, contact Steve Lane, at president@claytonvalleyg ardenclub.org. Donations are tax deductible. Learn more about the Clayton Valley Garden Club at claytonvalleygardenclub.org.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
Parents need to be tied to Red Ribbon Week Veteran’s Day,
DAVID LINZEY VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE At Clayton Valley Charter High School we are currently celebrating Red Ribbon Week. As you probably know, Red Ribbon Week is a national prevention and awareness campaign against alcohol, tobacco, drugs and violence. This year’s theme at CVCHS is “above the influence.” Part of our commitment to character education is to establish and maintain a core set of values in our students including living a healthy and happy lifestyle. We ask that parents, guardians, and other community members stand
united with us in support of Red Ribbon Week. According to the website “A Parent’s Guide to the Teenage Brain,” “It helps to start young, talk often, and remember that setting a good example, stating clear expectations, and being a supportive, assertive parent are the most effective ways to protect your teen.” Communication is the key to instilling the core values that your students need to face their lives outside of the home. The website goes on to suggest the following tips when working towards this goal: UNDERSTAND THE BENEFITS OF A NO-USE POLICY People who begin smoking or using alcohol when they are very young are more likely to be heavy users of these substances later on. Also, adolescent brains are going through big changes. That means teenagers can be more prone to making bad judgments and taking
risks. It also means their brains are especially vulnerable to permanent damage from drugs and alcohol. SUPPORT YOUR TEEN WITH ROLE MODELING AND FIRM GUIDANCE Your guidance helps support your teen; be warm, but firm. Ask your teen to share his or her experiences and opinions about teenagers that use. Then tell your teen how you feel and what you expect. For example, to support a no-use policy. Be sure that your own behavior models responsible use or abstention. Be prepared to talk about your past START TALKING EARLY IN LIFE. AND KEEP TALKING. Ideally “the talk” is a series of talks that begins when our kids are young. Then, as they grow, the focus changes to match the child’s mental ability and their current concerns. To start conversations, look for “teachable moments” in the neighborhood, outside your car window, on TV shows, news
and movies. (“That woman overdosed. I wonder what’ll happen to her kids?”) You can also use questions to point out hidden messages, especially in ads. CONSIDER PUTTING YOUR AGREEMENTS IN WRITING. Because teenagers are more likely to follow guidelines they help create, get together to design rules and consequences that work for you both. Then consider putting the details in writing to make sure you’re on the same page (now and in the future). We hope these tips and others you may will help foster open communication between you and your teen and ultimately support the character education of all CVCHS students. On that note and in the spirit of our last article, please visit claytondtrt.com, and contribute to the running account of acts of kindness perpetrated in our community. David Linzey is executive director of CVCHS. Contact him David.linzey@claytonvalley.org
from page 1 The question is, do we thank and celebrate the veterans and soldiers enough for all they have done for our country? As someone who comes from a long line of military personnel, I am always excited and proud when I see someone of the Armed Forces and I believe that we need to do more to thank war veterans. We should be taught more about Veterans’ Day in school; perhaps have soldiers come and talk about what it is like to go into war. We should also have a place where veterans can come and talk each other and the rest of us about their war experience. As a community, we should have fundraisers each year to raise money for soldiers’ families who deal with their death or for those who come home with injuries or disorders from war, such as PTSD. Veterans should be recog-
nized more than they are. We should recognize them every day instead of giving them only one day a year. Still, Veterans’ Day is a day to recognize American soldiers who have gone to war to fight for our freedom. When you see a member of the Armed Forces thank them for every day they spent risking their lives for us. We cannot forget what they sacrificed and they should not have to sacrifice anything more when they get home. So, on Nov. 11, be thinking about what all members of the United States Armed Forces are doing for you and our country. I know I will be. Carlie Beeson is an 8th grader at Pine Hollow Middle School. She enjoys reading, playing soccer, and singing. Questions or comments? Email her at carlie@claytonpioneer.com
Night skies come alive for DVMS students A young woman meets her ‘Match’
CAITLIN REIMER DVMS REPORTER On Oct. 10, Diablo View Middle School was able to spot star clusters, stars and constellations, along with many other wonders of space, thanks to the Mt. Diablo Astronomical Society’s “Astronomy Night.” Not only were the students able to look through telescopes at the starry October sky, but they also received extra credit in their science class. Four telescopes were set up on the lower field by the Clayton Community Gymnasium, for students and their families to use to view the stars.
Students saw many astronomical wonders through different telescopes, and learned something in the process. “I saw the craters in the moon,” said sixth grader Kieran Moss. “I also learned how they formed.” “I saw the moon magnified!” said fourth grader Ian Kelly. Many students had never looked through a telescope before, so it was exciting for them. Families observed the Moon and its craters and even planet Venus, which viewers discovered to be shaped like a crescent. Many were able to see the Ring of Nebula, a donut-shaped star cluster that contains 300,000 stars and is 23,000 light years away. DVMS students and their families enjoyed Astronomy Night, and hopefully, learned and understood a lot more about space and astronomy.
Imagine this: on your 17th birthday, you must choose to be single or “matched.” If you choose to be matched, you would be put in the “matching pool” and paired with someone who the officials thought would be your best match in something called a “Match Banquet.” Unfortunately, 17 year-old Cassia chooses to be matched but realizes she has made the wrong decision when she is paired up with her best friend, Xander, in “Matched” by Ally
Caitlin Reimer is a sixth grader at Diablo View Middle School. She enjoys dancing, reading, writing, acting, and volleyball.
Day to day, week to week, month to month, year to year; the cycle of college applications never ends. Students in modern society spend all of their lives preparing for the day they can say, “Look Mom! I got accepted to Harvard!” However unrealistic this may sound, most high school teens seem as though they are preparing to apply to Ivy League and other prestigious universities. They play sports and join clubs with the underlying idea that extracurricular activities look good on college applications. Besides the fact that many stu-
Kieran Moss enjoyed looking through the telescopes and learning about space.
Condie (Speak; Reprint edition, September 2011).
EMILY YORK
TEEN READS
“Matched” is based on the idea of a futuristic dystopian world where the Society (or “officials”) dictate all aspects of citizens’ lives, including who they’re allowed to love, where they can work and when they die. Over time, Cassia discovers feelings for an elegant poet named Ky. As Cassia falls in love with Ky, the officials are watching her every move and eventually, Cassia must choose either her best friend or Ky. “Matched” is the first book
in a trilogy followed by “Crossed” and “Reached.” “Matched” was very interesting to me not only because it was set in a dystopian society (which isn’t very common in young adult literature), but also because everything about it is intriguingly different. I’ve never come across a trilogy this fascinating and compelling. Emily York is a freshman at CVCHS.
College app season means much stress for seniors
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dents do enjoy helping their community, many volunteer because they need to make their applications stand out among the thousands of names admissions officials see every year. “I got into UCLA with a 3.3 G.P.A.,” says Clayton Valley Charter High School teacher Amber Lineweaver. “Getting into UCLA with that G.P.A. now is unheard of.” Many students now would agree they could never imagine being accepted to UCLA with that grade point average. Rather, students are expected to have at least a 4.0 in order to even be considered for certain institutions, like the top UCs. Overall, the number of applications universities receive increases steadily every year; consequently, more applicants are going to be cut because of low standardized test scores or an insufficient amount of extracurriculars. It has come to the point where although the
scores or extracurriculars are there, they simply are not enough. Students are thus pressured to be incredibly active in their school and community. In addition, education in the United States is incomparable to that of foreign nations, yet we have all the universities that foreigners want to attend. The pressure thus increases because students no longer only compete with each other but also with students that have had much more experience and a more rigorous education. Moreover, the aspect that puts the most stress on students nowadays is the idea that going to a four-year university is mandatory. Whether it is to find a decent job in the future or just to get out of the house, the importance of higher education has grown within the culture of this modern generation. CVCHS Senior Rita Regelbrugge contends that “jobs have become more competitive, so
LILIANA HERNANDEZ
TEEN SPEAK more people try to get an edge on their peers. College has evolved into a necessity because it is seen as a step for higher paying careers.” All in all, many students are very stressed their senior year because they are waiting to see how much their hard work paid off. In the end, no matter how much students stress over college applications, they must keep one thing in mind: everything happens for a reason. Liliana Hernandez is a Senior at Clayton Valley Charter High School. She loves to read and plans to pursue her interest in writing in the future. Send email to her at liliana@claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Salvation Army launches turkey drive The annual Salvation Army Frozen Turkey and Food Basket Drive kicks off Monday, Nov. 18 and runs through Sunday, Nov. 23. Residents Donors can drop off frozen turkeys (about 10-15 pounds), canned meats, peanut butter and ready-to-eat staples like tuna and canned beans at the Salvation Army Church, located at 3950 Clayton Road. Drop-off hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The food drive is extremely important, as the number of needy families havehas tripled since 2005, according to Salvation Army representatives. “Our Our goal is to provide food baskets and frozen turkeys for every one of these families this year, because nobody should go hungry on Thanksgiving, or any day for that matter,” says Concord Salvation Army Social Services Director Lauri Vint. For more information or to volunteervolunteers, contact Vint at (925) 676-6180 x 10 or email by calling 925-676-6180 Ext 10, or emailing Lauri.Vint@usw.salvationarmy.org.
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ls ke ay o a r Ka onda s on M to 11 pm
MORE WAYS TO HELP If you are too busy to help out right now, there are several other ways to make a difference, Vint suggests. Supporters can donate online through “The Salvation Army USA. ” Make sure your donation actually reaches the Specify Concord Food Pantry, Concord, CA 94521 in by specifying the donation is for Concord, CA., Food Pantry 94521 in Specific Use box at secure20.salvationarmy.org. Or, mail or drop off a check payable to The Salvation Army, Concord, CA. Or mail or drop off a check made out to “The Salvation Army, Concord, CA” at 3950 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521. Put “Food Pantry Concord, CA.” in the check memo line. Vint says that no matter the time of year, residents can drop off food and checks daily Monday through Friday at the Clayton Road drop-off location. “There is always a need.”
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of Italy Don’t get SAD this winter season Taste Winemaker Dinner
STEPHANIE HO MIND MATTERS With the days getting colder and the nights getting longer, I thought that this would be a good time to shed some light on the “winter depression” officially known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is a type of depression that occurs around the same time every year, typically beginning in the fall and lasting through the winter months. We’re not talking about the occasional winter blues on gloomy days or a bah-humbug seasonal funk. Individuals with SAD may experience a cluster of any number of the following
symptoms that will persist for at least a few weeks and may last for a few months: Depressed mood, hopelessness, anxiety, loss of energy, physical feeling of heaviness or leadenness in body, withdrawal and isolation, loss of interest and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, appetite changes and desire for more carbohydrates or comfort foods, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, and suicidal thoughts. It is not known exactly causes SAD, but according to the Mayo Clinic, there are some factors that we know play a role: • Your body’s circadian rhythms: With less light, your body thinks that it should be asleep. When your body thinks its rhythms are being disrupted, it can lead to feelings of depression. • Serotonin: Serotonin is a brain chemical that positively influences our mood and our happiness when there is enough of it. Reduced sunlight can cause serotonin levels to drop which can lead to
feelings of depression. • Vitamin D and melatonin: These natural elements in our body influence our mood and sleep patterns. Again, less sunlight leads to an imbalance which can then trigger depression. Some other risk factors for SAD include being female (although males who have SAD have more severe symptoms), living farther north or south of the equator, family history, and your own personal history of depression and bipolar disorder. Having worked in places that are subject to less sunlight like the Northeast and from a local perspective, the Davis-Sacramento area, I can attest to the importance of sunlight on our mood. Our clinics saw a lot more clients with SAD in both of these regions and many of these clients had not experienced SAD prior to living in these parts of the country. If you think you may be suffering from SAD, please contact your doctor or find a local men-
tal health provider for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options for SAD can include light therapy (sitting in front of an approved SAD light therapy box which mimics outdoor light), psychotherapy to address factors that may be exacerbating your SAD, and antidepressant medication should symptoms be severe. Some other lifestyle remedies you can try on your own to improve your mood include increasing your exposure to as much light as possible, especially within the first two hours of the morning, getting outside more, and exercising more. Just remember that SAD is not something that you have to deal with on your own and you don’t have to wait out the misery for a few months each year.
Monday Nov. 25, 6:30 p.m. 4-course dinner paired with Italian wines Bring your friends! Email or Call for Reservations
(925) 524-0011 6201 Center St., Clayton laverandaclayton@hotmail.com
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Stephanie T. Ho is a licensed psychologist. She has a private practice office in Walnut Creek and works at UC Berkeley. She can be reached at stephanie.ho.phd@gmail.com.
Scorpion, scary but harmless. Seriously? scorpion called Centruroides exilicauda. Thankfully, this scorpion is not in our area, preferring but rather lives in more southern environments. One can identify this brand of arthropod by its triangularshaped sternal (underbelly) plate. However, I don’t recommend looking.
DAVID BIRDSALL, M.D.
DOCTOR’S ORDERS Living in the Bay Area, we are fortunate enough to share our space with a wide variety of wild life. Near my home I have seen deer, raccoons, owls, snakes, lizards, and even a bobcat. However, the interloper that my friend encountered in her closet was one that I didn’t even know lived in our area. It was a scorpion! Yes, Virginia, there are scorpions in the East Bay.Clayton and Concord, especially in the rural areas. east bay. Admittedly, they are not common, but somehow that doesn’t make me feel any better. These guys are look scary, intimidating.. freaky. (are intimidating.) Scorpions, though ugly, are actually quite harmless to humans. In fact, in Arizona, where all scorpions should be, there hasn’t been a death since 1948. True, people can develop some reactions such as local irritation, redness, swelling, tingling, and the like, but a serious reaction is extremely rare, typically occurring only . It and typically only occurs ring from the sting of a specific brand of
The type of scorpion we might see in our area is called a Mordant and is quite harmless. It, like other such creatures, prefers to hide under rocks, in woodpiles, in cracks, and some-
times in shoes. Scorpions, in general, are predators and carnivores. They like to munch on insects, spiders, and, in the case of some momma scorpions, their husbands. They are also are nocturnal. In fact, if you go outside with a black light you might catch a glimpse of them. They glow very brightly at night. Just make sure that you do it around your own house. I don’t want anyone being mistaken as a prowler. If you encounter a scorpion indoors, don’t pick it up. Remember, they are more afraid of you then you are of them.
(In my case, I doubt it.) Simply, place a glass jar over them and slide a piece of sturdy construction paper past the opening. Next, coolly walk out side and set it free. I don’t recommend doing what my friend did. She politely squished it with her bare foot. If you get stung, don’t panic. Just clean the wound, apply antibiotic ointment to it and then a cool compress. Also, get obtain a tetanus shot if you haven’t had one in the last 10 years. Sometimes these stings can really smart, sting so an antiinflammatory such as [generic name?]Motrin ccan help with the pain. Very rarely, do systemic symptoms may develop. However Iif you become short of breath, develop a sustained rapid heart rate (more than >120 beats per minute), develop excessive saliva, or develop severe muscle twitching, then go to the emergency room immediately. While there is no specific recommended anti-venom, we can help with the symptoms. Remember, the number of these bugarthropodsgers in our area is low and their sting isn’t any worse than that of a bee. So don’t lose sleep. This article was mainly meant to be a “did you know?” columnarticle. Not a “you better watch out” piece. I have lived here all my life, and I didn’t know that we could brag about our had scorpion population. s in our area. We will see you down the road at John Muir. Many thanks to Marti Buxton from the Lindsay Wildlife Muse-
um for her assistance with in the writing of this article.
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Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Dana Hills Crafters
Pioneer Guide to Holiday Shopping Lo
Crafters Fair
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November 30 10 am to 4pm
Dana Hills Cabana
10 am to 4pm
Celebrate the season and find gifts for family and friends. We will have a little something for everyone on your list. Find unique handmade items or order your special gifts just in time for the holidays while enjoying refreshments and holiday treats. Contact: shaunamaffei@gmail.com
Earthquake Arabians
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Featuring great handmade and made-to-order items just in time for the holidays: Jewelry, baby items, decor, baked goods, crochet items & hair bows to name a few. For more information, contact Shauna: shaunamaffei@gmail.com
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This year will be our tenth annual Christmas Cookie Contest and your chance to stir, bake and taste up a storm of those sweets that bust the diet and send us over the moon.
Deadline for entry is Dec. 10
So, dust off the cookbooks and dig out Uncle Bud’s sugar cookie recipe, bake a few practice rounds & enter our contest.
Judging Party is Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m. in the Clayton Library Community Room. Be there for live music and caroling led by Vintage, games and crafts for the little ones and photos with Santa. Recipes and photos of winners will appear in the Dec. 20 issue.
Clayton Pioneer’s
2013 CHRISTMAS COOKIE CONTEST ENTRY FORM Please fill out a separate form for each entry.
November 16 & 17 Hours: Sat. 10-5pm, Sun. 10-3pm
Name (Please print)
Fall Faire
Address (Must reside in the Pioneer Distribution area 94517, 94518 or 94521) Phone Number
Holiday Shopping
Email address
Arts and Crafts Commercial Vendors A variety of food selections
Name of Recipe
Master Baker (16+) Junior Baker (Ages 6-15) Your age____
Parent's Signature (for Junior Bakers)
Contestant agrees to being photographed at the competition. Recipes used from published books must identify source. Signature
Mail your entry to: the Clayton Pioneer, PO Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517; or drop off at our office at 6200 H Center Street, Clayton. If the office is closed, slip it through the mail slot.
Deadline to enter is 5 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 10
1201 West 10th St., Antioch (925) 757-4400
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November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 11
Restored beacon back on its perch at Mt. Diablo summit The historic aviation beacon that sat atop Mount Diablo since 1928 returned to the sum-
mit in a private ceremony on Oct. 22 after undergoing significant repairs.
Photo: Scott Hein
THE BEACON ON MOUNT DIABLO made a dramatic entrance after a cosmetic and mechanical overhaul from new electrical wiring to a bright, new coat of silver paint. Even the beacon’s perch on the roof of the Mount Diablo Summit Building was repainted.
The beacon is a historical symbol for those who lost their lives in Pearl Harbor and is lit every year in commemoration of the day by the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors. The beacon underwent significant repairs after it was removed from the summit building in June to ensure it shines over the community for decades. The beacon was originally installed and illuminated in 1928 to aid in trans-continental aviation. It was shut off after the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. The light stayed dark until Dec. 7, 1964, when it was re-lit in a memorial ceremony for those who lost their lives. Since then, the beacon shines every year on Dec. 7 in a ceremony attended by Pearl Harbor survivors. The beacon received few repairs over the years and it showed. Assemblywoman Joan Buchanan wrote special legislation for California State Parks to enter into a partnership with Save Mount Diablo for the beacon’s restoration since the State Parks’ budget was limited and a there was a need to move quickly. Many community partners
Why advertise in the Pioneer? Here are two reasons: As the owner of Burkin Electric, I have had my ad in the Clayton Pioneer for several years. I believe in supporting local businesses like the Pioneer. As our community grows, our businesses do also because of the success of the Pioneer. Having my ad in the Pioneer has helped my business and people recognize me from it. I get the extra exposure that I need. I want to thank the Pioneer and my customers who have relied on me over the years. Small business, small paper, growing community! James J. Burkin, Burkin Electric
stepped up to help restore the beacon and raise the $100,000 necessary to complete this historic project. The East Bay Leadership Council awarded Save Mount Diablo and its partners the 2013 Philanthropy Award for Outstanding Collaborative Project for the Mount Diablo Beacon Restoration Project on Sep. 3. The annual beacon lighting ceremony is at sunset on Dec. 7. For more information about the beacon restoration, go to savemountdiablo.org. The Summit Building Observation Deck is currently closed for repair and weatherization. The Summit Building Visitor Center and Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information about the deck and visitor center, go to mdia.org.
Through Dec. 17, 2013
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Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
Sports Northgate looks to tie CV for football title JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter fans and players who expected the Eagles to dominate rival Concord High in their annual Diablo Valley Athletic League football showdown last Friday at Gonsalves Stadium were in for a rude awakening as the Minutemen were just a dropped conversion pass in the end zone from claiming victory. There will probably be no such attitude by the CVCHS team or supporters when they visit Northgate Friday night trying to sew up their second consecutive undisputed league championship. Coach Tim Murphy’s team prevailed over Concord 49-48 in the highest scoring game ever in the Diablo Valley Athletic League or in CV school history. Northgate comes into Friday’s game with a 3-1 record in league play to the Eagles’ 4-0. Should the Broncos win they will tie for the league crown but have bragging rights over their cochamps. Previously-undefeated Northgate lost 30-28 to Con-
cord a couple weeks ago. Since those teams figured to be the biggest obstacles standing in the way of a repeat title for Clayton Valley that result was no shock. What was a surprise was when Concord lost the following week to College Park by nine points—-the same Falcons team that fell 71-14 to CV earlier in the season. Because of those comparable results Clayton Valley fans were posting messages on Facebook last Friday anticipating a lopsided victory. Since their opening game loss in August to No. 1-ranked De La Salle, the Eagles have been so dominate that there’s been a running clock throughout the second half of all their games. Clayton Valley jumped out to a 20-8 lead over Concord before the Minutemen then ran off three consecutive touchdowns to take a 28-20 lead in the third quarter. In that wild stanza there were 43 total points scored with Clayton taking a 43-36 advantage into the last period. The teams traded TDs, leaving the Eagles up 49-42. Concord did not go away quietly and scored a
Jason Rogers
MILES HARRISON (3) HAS BEEN THE FEATURED BACK in the Clayton Valley Charter wing gun offense this year. He went over 1000 for the season last week in the wild victory over Concord High. Two seasons ago Harrison helped the undefeated Clayton Valley frosh team to a league title and then last year was impressive on the junior varsity while Joe Protheroe was setting a book full of rushing records for the Eagles.
Jason Rogers
CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS AND SPIRIT SQUAD CELEBRATED WINNING THE CLAYCORD CUP for the second year in a row last Friday in their final DVAL home game. The Eagles hope this is the first of several such celebrations as they seek to win an outright league title Friday at Northgate and then follow that up with wins in the North Coast Section playoffs, the CIF North Regional Bowl Game and finally the State Bowl in in Southern California this December.
touchdown in the final 20 seconds to cap a near seven-minute scoring drive. The pass for a two-point (winning) conversion was dropped and Clayton Valley hung on for the win. Tanner Wraa (126 yards, 2 TDs) and Miles Harrison (176 yards, 3 TDs) were the mainstays as Clayton Valley ground out 426 rushing yards. Quarterback Gabe Taylor threw only six passes but two were for scores, the last 38 yards to Ben Davis for the winning touchdown. Taylor also rushed 67 yards to open the scoring. All these offensive efforts offset the heroics of Concord QB Mitch Daniels who had nearly 350 passing and six touchdowns, which is more TDs than CV had given up to any team since their opening 2012 game. In fact, the Eagles had only allowed 34 points in their last seven games combined. The two Concord city rivals racked
up over 1000 yards of total offense. Long-time prep football observers went to the record book to see where the 49-48 scoring fest of 97 points ranked. The previous highest scoring DVAL game was only last year when CVCHS defeated Ygnacio Valley 69-22 (91 points). The school mark in a single game also as last year when the Eagles beat Montgomery of Santa Rosa 57-35 (92 points). Murphy lauded the work of Taylor. “I felt Gabe played really well and held his composure.” The coach says it’s up to his team to defeat 8-1 Northgate on their home field to get the sole DVAL championship. Northgate tuned up for the league finale with a 49-14 verdict over College Park. The Broncos were tied at seven after one quarter before racking up 28 second-quarter points. Quarterback Kyle Austin competed
seven of nine passes for 212 yards while running back Eric Haynes scored four times and gained 189 yards. Clayton Valley is projected as the No. 1 or 2 seed along with Casa Grande of Petaluma for the Division 2 NCS playoffs, where they will try to defend their title starting next weekend. Northgate, Concord and College are all projected among the top 10 seeds in Division 2. MILES HARRISON MAKING HIS MARK Junior Harrison has been the main ball carrier in Murphy’s wing gun offense. He went over 1000 yards for the year last Friday when he carried 29 times, almost a third of his season total of 102 rushes. He’s racked up 19 TDs, all but one on the ground. Due to the lopsided nature of Eagle games he only ran twice from scrimmage against YV and seven or fewer times in three
other games. Haynes has been equally impressive for the Broncos with 22 touchdowns rushing and 1131 yards. Two weeks ago Clayton Valley was awarded a forfeit win over Mt. Diablo. The Red Devils had suffered four concussions and, with three other players unavailable, the team was down to 16 players. MDHS head football coach and athletic director Bryan Shaw said, “For the safety of our kids, our coaching staff decided that it was not in the best interest to play.“ The team called up a half dozen junior varsity players to finish their remaining two DVAL games. By comparison Clayton Valley lists 76 players on its varsity roster. Murphy offered to rest his entire first team against MD but even then the Eagles would have had three times as many players as the Red Devils for a game that was likely a lopsided CV victory.
NCS playoffs in the offing for fall league teams JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
All the Clayton Valley Charter and Northgate high school water polo teams begin North Coast Section playoffs this week while the school’s tennis, cross country, football and volleyball teams will find out if they are in NCS competition this weekend. The Eagles placed second in both the boys and girls divisions at the Diablo Valley Athletic League cross country championships last Saturday. Northgate won the girls title on its home 3.3-mile course at Castle Rock Park. Senior Danny Condon of CVCHS was undefeated during all league meets until the championships when Jorge BernabeVelasquez of Ygnacio Valley claimed the individual title by 10 seconds over Condon, exactly reversing their head to head dual Oct. 16. Northgate’s top finisher was Isaac Schick in ninth place. No other Bronco or Eagle runner was in the top 10. College Park placed four runners in the top 10 and had a comfortable 27-point victory over CV. On the girls side Northgate finished with 32 points ahead of CVCHS at 46. Jamie Busby of College Park won the race by a
wide margin while tying the course record of 21:43. Northgate had the next two finishers with Caitlyn Mundrane runnerup and Megan Coyle right behind her in third. Jessica Boucher (6) and Aino Tanaka (10) were other top finishers for the Broncos.
Freshman Natalie Ruzicka took fourth for the Eagles while teammates Kyra Ortiz and Lindsay Mondloch were seventh and eighth. The NCS meet is in Hayward on Nov. 23, a week before the State Meet in Fresno.
Photo courtesy Chett Bullock
SENIOR DANNY CONDON HAS BEEN THE PACESETTER for the Clayton Valley Charter High School boys cross country team while going undefeated in DVAL tri-meets. Condon was upset in the league finals last Saturday but is now preparing with his teammates for the Nov. 23 North Coast Section meet.
NORTHGATE SWEEPS CV WATER POLO
Northgate broke a 5-5 halftime tie to defeat Clayton Valley 11-9 in the championship game of the DVAL boys water polo tournament, flipping the result from their league match when CVCHS won 7-5. Junior goalkeeper Liam Williams had 17 saves to keep the Eagles at bay. Co-captains Brayden Levy and Michael Wardle combined for seven goals while Calvin Kirkpatrick chipped in with three more Bronco scores. The Eagles had four players with goals each while their keeper Domanic Glenn had five saves. Clayton Valley (16-8 overall) is the 10th seed in the NCS Division 1 boys water polo tournament and opens play this Thursday afternoon at Campolindo in Moraga against No. 7 Amador Valley (17-4). Northgate (14-12) is the fifth seed in Division 2 and opens NCS water polo in the quarterfinals on Saturday against Tamalpais (17-9), the fourth seed. In the girls DVAL championship the Broncos again edged the Eagles 6-4 in the finals. Sara Abele, Sara Johnson, Quincy Winship and Katy Kommer scored the Eagles goals. In girls NCS D1, Clayton Valley (13-10) is seeded eighth and meets No. 9 Deer Valley (17-4) at De La Salle Thursday. The win-
ner comes back in the quarterfinals Saturday against top seed and undefeated San Ramon Valley. Sixth seed Northgate (13-13) began girls play on Wednesday against San Marin (11-8) with the winner moving to the quarterfinals on Saturday against Sir Francis Drake (19-6). DELONG TOP GOLFER AT NCS FOR CV DVAL golf champion Rachel DeLong was the low scorer for Clayton Valley at the NCS Division 1 Qualifier and a week later at the NCS Tournament of Championships. DeLong carded an 85 at the qualifier at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord and then an 80 a week later at Peacock Gap Country Club in San Rafael. No other Eagle golfer was able to break 100. Clayton golfer Lauren Ipsen helped her Carondelet team to fifth place in the TOC while she shot 79, second best score for the Cougars. Girls NCS Division 1 team tennis begins next week and undefeated DVAL champs Northgate are looking towards a strong showing. The Broncos are 19-4 overall. Sophomore Ana Boeriu will again represent DVAL in singles while Shannon Markiewicz and Kimi Nakagawa are the double champs who will be in the NCS
finals in Santa Rosa Nov. 19-20. BRONCOS VOLLEYBALL UNDEFEATED
Girls volleyball seedings for NCS will be announced Sunday. Undefeated DVAL champ Northgate has over 20 wins and is a lock to have a high Division 2 seed. Clayton Valley is battling for its first NCS berth since 2010 and the Eagles will be looking for a strong showing at the DVAL Tournament this week to impress the selection committee. Section playoffs begin next week and conclude Nov. 23. The other NCS playoff competition being determined this weekend is football. The DVAL has won NCS D2 football titles two of the past three years with Concord claiming the 2010 championship and CVCHS last year. The Minutemen were also NCS finalists in 2011. Three of the four NCS D2 semi-finalists last year were DVAL teams. Of course, De La Salle of Concord has 21 consecutive section football titles. Defending NCS champs DLS and CVCHS met in the season’s opening game in August and are current favorites to be top seeds in their respective brackets again this year. Some prep observes feel the Eagles strength of schedule may work against them for the top seed.
November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
Sports Hungry Warriors ready to take a bite out of NBA TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK Alley-oops, fast-breaks and slam dunks — for the next seven months sports fans will be enthralled with the fast paced, high octane game that is professional basketball. The NBA regular season officially started on Oct. 29, featuring three great matchups, one of which was the Miami Heat vs. Chicago Bulls. Miami looked as dominate as it has in its past two championship seasons, ruining Derek Roses return to the court, in a 107 to 95 victory. Watching the Miami Heat is important for all teams in the league, but especially for the Golden State Warriors, if they wish to make a championship run this season. Last season was amazing
for the Warriors. Players on their roster seemed to turn into superstars overnight, and they proved they are a real threat for this coming season. The Warriors are stacked this year with talent, as they added small forward Andre Iguodala to their roster in the offseason. They lost power forward Carl Laundry and point guard Jarrett Jack, but the Warriors have such a strong core of players now, these loses should not be too detrimental. The NBA Western Conference is a juicy apple just waiting to be plucked by the Warriors. Most of the elite NBA teams are currently in the Eastern Conference, giving the Warriors an easy route to at least a fourth seed in the playoffs this season. Their stiffest competition lies in the Los Angeles Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs. All three of these teams have veteran players, and are
stocked with talent at both the player and coaching position. The Warriors path to the playoffs will not be an easy one, but if Stephen Curry can continue to fill the role of superstar, it will make it much easier for them to beat the elite Western Conference teams. Curry’s emergence as a superstar has coincided with the Warriors improved performance. His teammates seem to feed of his energy, almost mesmerized during a game when Stephen shoots that silky smooth three-pointer. Curry has the ability to take control of a game offensively any night. Any player who can drop more than 50 points in Madison Square Garden (home of the New York Knicks), like Curry did last season, is proven to have an amazing offensive game. Curry is well known around the league for his great shooting ability, but one thing he must
improve on is his defense. Defense is the key for the Warriors to become a championship team. They are a team that can score over 100 points easily on any given night, but they need to be able to play lock-down defense on the perimeter, and this starts with Stephen Curry. Curry needs to use his crafty speed to stay in front of defenders, and make them commit to long distance shots. Once the Warriors get their defense to a lock-down level, look out league, because there will be a new NBA champion, and the Heat won’t get their three-peat.
Seven teams from the host Diablo FC soccer club took part in the competition on the field and the popular costume contest at the 15th annual Halloween Kick or Treat Classic late last month. The under 11 Diablo FC 02 girls coached by Miguel Gonzalez won the top
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Tyler Lehman is a sophomore at Diablo Valley College and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He plans to major in journalism and wants to be a sports writer. Email your comments or questions to Tyler@claytonpioneer.com.
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under 11 Cauldrons flight with an 8-1 victory in the championship game over Manteca FC Benfica 02 while winning four consecutive games. The team had finished second the last two years at the local tournament. The team completed a double victory by also getting the award as Best Overall costume for their nerds look.
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Is your son or daughter interested in playing competitively? The Blaze from All Out Sports League will be hosting tryouts soon for their spring teams:
Blaze Club Volleyball: Open to girls 10u - 18u.
Tryouts: Nov. 9, 2013
Photos courtesy Diablo FC
THE U9 DIABLO FC 04 GIRLS WON HONORABLE MENTION in the costume contest but they were a big hit with their Thing (from Cat in the Hat) outfits. The squad includes, front row from left, Caroline Tobin, Natalia Umana, Juliannah Colchico-Greeley, Alyssa Pringle, Indigo Whiteley; second row, Ella McGloin, Keilah Ezaddin, Gianna Betti, Grace Dausses, Ashlynn Evans, Lizzie Pauline, Courtney Wagner; back, team manager Sherman Dausses and assistant coach Kristen Colchico.
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Diablo FC 03 won the U10 boys costume contest. The team sported referee uniforms complete with red cards. The squad includes, front row from left, Juanpablo Hernandez, Alex Guerrero, Benjamin Lucha, Anthony Lozano, Kevin Murguia; back row, Jonathan Wence, Dylan Gillespie, Jack Simpkins, Davin Fabrizio and Mauro Ruiz. Not pictured, Cesar Garcia, Abraham Lozano and Dominick Rodriguez.
Blaze AAU Basketball: Open to boys 8u - 15u.
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Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
Sports Two MDSA girls teams win Area 2C fall rec soccer titles JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
The fall recreation season or older AYSO teams came to a close late last month with the Area 2C tournament and Mt. Diablo Soccer Association under 16 and U19 girls came away with championships.
Area 2C encompasses AYSO regions PHMSA, Concord, MDSA, American Canyon which gives the older group teams, especially in U16 and U19, a chance to play against good competition when there are fewer teams available for each local league. The MDSA United U19 girls
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rallied from a 1-0 halftime deficit with three goals in the second half to win the Area 2C Cup for a second year in a row. Alex Converse, Gabriela Haddad and Marina Arcaya scored for MDSA while Clayton native Paige Alford helped blank Concord United in the second half with defensive help from Daissy Lozano, Rachel Semple and Hannah Louis to secure the title for coach Jose Soltero Jr. For MDSA U16 Team Pink the season had been one of hit and miss. Throughout the fall season, they often played with few or no subs due to injuries and players who had high school sports commitments. Team Pink didn’t realize their potential until the Area Cup when a nearly full roster made them a force to be reckoned with. They started the tournament with a 6-0 win over American Canyon but suffered a 2-1 loss to Pleasant Hill #3. On the final day, they redeemed themselves
Photos courtesy MDSA
IT TOOK A PENALTY KICK SHOOTOUT IN THE FINAL GAME but MDSA U16 Team Pink girls won the Area 2C fall rec title. The team includes, front row from left, Kala Rehm, Savanha Groebner, Emily Barnes, Lexie Wakefield, Valeria Huaco, Cristina Daly; back row, coach Sylvia Jones, Stephanie Punty, Laura McFarland, Riley Pearson, Devin Jones, Adelle Meyer, Alyssa Montany, Tori Klock, Melissa Olson and Suzy Schofield. Not pictured, Lara Milward and Jamie Moreno.
with a 4-0 win against undefeated Pleasant Hill #1, which advanced them to the finals against Pleasant Hill #2. The finale featured two well matched teams and the game ended 3-3 before the squads went immedi-
ately to penalty kicks. Suzy Schofield scored the winning PK for MDSA and coach Sylvia Jones. MDSA Elite teams had some excellent tournament results earlier this fall. The U14 MDSA
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FOR THE SECOND YEARS IN A ROW MDSA U19 UNITED won the Area 2C fall rec title. The team includes, front, Paige Alford, knelling from left, Marina Arcaya, Julianna Cardinale, Alex Converse, Daissy Lozano, Rachel Semple, Hannah Louis, Cristina Lopez; back row, Sydney Purser, Marissa Macedo, Daisy Agers, Gabriella Haddad, Kimber Searle, Rachel DeLong, Lauren Wardle and coach Jose Soltero Jr. Not pictured, Karyna Balmain, Rosie Ellis-Falik, McKenna Peterson, Nicole Simons, Kimberly Snow and Eva Vega.
Sports Shorts HAILEY PASCOE COMMITS EARLY TO LEHIGH
CHUCK BERKELEY MAKES US OLYMPIC BOBSLED
BASKETBALL
TEAM AGAIN
Clayton Valley Charter High School and Cal Stars Nike Elite guard Hailey Pascoe has verbally committed to Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. Pascoe has been a double digit scorer as a freshman and sophomore at CVCHS and should be a mainstay for new coach Paul Kommer this winter as a junior. When eligible to accept as a senior she is expected to receive a full-ride basketball scholarship from the Lehigh Mountain Hawks, who play in the Patriot League. She was a member of the Cal Stars Nike Elite club team this summer that finished second nationally with a 54-3 record. Pascoe is currently playing on the CV Eagles volleyball team.
Former Clayton resident Chuck Berkeley of Walnut Creek was named last week to the United States Olympic bobsled team for the second time and will be representing America at the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. Berkeley began the sport of bobsled in 2007. He first became interested in the sport while at Cal Berkeley on the track team where he saw Darrin Steele for the 1998 Olympics. Berkeley competed at the 2010 Olympic Games with driver John Napier before taking some time off from the sport. He returned to the World Cup circuit for the 2012-2013 season and helped push Cory Butner to his first World Cup medal, silver, in his return to competition. “This is the most impressive
team we’ve ever had going into an Olympic year,” said Brian Shimer, USA men’s bobsled head coach. “Selecting this pool of athletes was probably one of the hardest decisions we’ve had to make as a committee. It’s exciting as a coach to have this kind of depth on the team, but bittersweet because I know we’re not taking a handful of athletes that are very capable of producing results.”
FALL YOUTH, ADULT PROGRAMS COMING TO CLAYTON GYM
A variety of programs at Clayton Community Gym are taking signups now through All Out Sports League. Winter youth basketball league Dec. 28Feb. 15 is now taking signups for players 4-16. Youth hip hop and jazz classes are every Monday for 5-16 year-olds. Zumba classes are Wednesday and Friday at 6 p.m. Blaze AAU basketball (Dec. 21) and girls club volleyball tryouts (this Saturday) are
Legends captured first at the Tall Trees Invitational in Palo Alto with four consecutive shutouts in a round-robin format that included three 1-0 wins and a scoreless draw. Sarah Cook, Andrea Lopez, Mariana Izon, Miranda Wiggenhauser, Riley Bowerbank and Delaney Weidner controlled the midfield in all four games while the stout defense was led by Lauren Kipley, Christina Montoya, Kaitlyn Chiok, Sydney Gois and Kelsey Turner in front of keeper Lauren Depaschalis. The team, coached by Roberto Lopez and Ruben Izon, recorded 11 consecutive shutouts from August through October. The U10 Phoenix girls coached by Chris Turner and Tim Kessinger took second at the Castro Valley Footie Fest and were champions at the San Ramon Copper Classic. On the boys side, U19 MDSA Sparta were second at the Stockton Triad with two wins and a tie before losing 1-0 in the finals to East Bay Eclipse, a team they had tied earlier 1-1 in pool play. Sparta is coached by John Riddle and David King.
coming up. Registration for 2014 spring basketball academy and t-ball is open. Blaze travel baseball tryouts for 11u-12u are Jan. 4 in Clayton. For complete information on all the programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES SOCCER ACADEMY RETURNS IN JANUARY San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer and Diablo FC are holding the 13th annual Winter Soccer Academy on Mondays and Thursdays Jan. 16-Feb. 27 under the lights at Willow Pass Park in Concord. Girls and boys 5-10 years of age and all skill levels are eligible for the Academy, which brings professional coaching experience headed by St. Mary’s College men’s head coach Adam Cooper and Brazilian World Cup and Olympic player Tafa. For more information visit the Earthquakes Youth Alliance Partner’s website at diablofc.org.
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November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Dog Park Memorial Arbor is a place for remembering ASHLEY SHAFFER Special to the Pioneer
Nestled near the Regency housing development lies the Clayton Dog Park, which houses the Memorial Arbor, and is the location of a new memorial for a four-legged friend. Friday, Oct. 25 marked the unveiling of a plaque for a beloved yellow lab, Cleo, who recently passed away. Her owner, Clayton resident Shirley Cahill, was delighted that she could share her dogs memory with the community. Cahill still frequents the park often with her dog Peta, another yellow lab. This is the latest plaque in honor of deceased dogs, and many Clayton residents are still unaware that Memorial Arbor is
an area where families and pet owners may display memorial plaques for their dogs. Park donors can also receive a plaque for display. That is just one of the many benefits of the Clayton Dog Park, which offers a space for dogs to run and socialize with other canines. The City of Clayton approved the dog park in 2000, offering to supply fencing, benches, a table and waste baskets. However, due to the fact that they were unable to supply
water, a group of residents established the Clayton K9 Coalition to raise funds to provide water to the park. A water line and drinking fountain was successfully installed in June 2005. That same year an Eagle Scout Project supplied an arbor shade structure over the picnic table, and the Memorial Arbor was born. The park offers something for all dog-owners, having two separate dog areas, one for smaller dogs and one for larger dogs. Each area has plenty of space for exercise and picnic seating for pet owners. It is even filled with tennis balls in case you forget to bring one for your pet. Dogs must be up to date on vaccinations and should be accompanied by someone 12 years or older to ensure safety at
the park. The park offers plenty of shade and fresh water for all dogs at the park. NEW BOARD The new Clayton K9 Coalition board members are excited to provide and maintain an open space for dogs to socialize. This years coalition members are Susan Sappington, president; Laura Pascal, secretary; Vickie Bogut, treasurer; and board members Lori Rehn and John Burgh. Sappington says she looks forward to serving the community this year and is enthusiastic about raising funds to support the park. Currently the K9 Coalition is looking for sponsors to support them in preserving the park moving forward. They also plan on holding a
Ashley Shaffer
SHIRLEY CAHILL, LAURA PASCAL AND SUSAN SAPPINGTON under the memorial arbor at the memorial plaque dedication for “Cleo”
fundraiser at the beginning of the year to help with maintenance of the park. “Our goal is to do a couple of fun fundraisers and to make sure the park is maintained and safe for our pets,” says Sappington.
Check out ARF’s adoption stars for this week, Rumi and Scarlet demeanor and won’t demand your constant attention, she sure is appreciative when you pet her and show her affection. She is very playful at times and loves her toys. Scarlet’s adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor.
RUMI
Three-year-old Rumi is a busy, perky little man with a busy agenda. He is a regular Indiana Jones, an adventuresome go-getter who will explore the world for toys and exciting smells! This spunky and entertaining little man would benefit from a home with a sense of humor where his antics will be appreciated. A Basic Manners or
SCARLET
Small Dog Manners class would be a great way to polish him into a little gentleman and help him start his new life with his best paw forward. Rumi prefers a home without small children. He currently weighs 10 pounds. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60 percent off one 7-week dog training session.
Scarlet, 2, is a recent mother of six kittens and she would now love to relax and enjoy life in a new home. Scarlet is an absolute sweetheart and is gentle, easy going and adjusts quickly to any new situation. She is the ideal hang-out cat that loves to lie anywhere at any time and watch the world go by. Although Scarlet doesn’t have a pushy
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? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arf.net, or call 925.256.1ARF.
For more information and news about the dog park please visit the website at www.claytondogpark.org as or the Facebook page at facebook.com/ClaytonDogPark or email bigdog@claytondogpark.org for any additional questions.
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Book Review
‘Dazzling’ is in the eye of the book holder
CYNTHIA GREGORY
FOR
THE
BOOKS
Don’t you just hate it when you spend the time looking for a yummy read, a book to fire your imagination and sooth your sense of adventure, only to find the heroine completely unlikeable in the end? We all know the pain of flirting with a book we think we will love only to break up with it half way between the covers because it’s a big fat dud. What if the story is good, but the writing itself is dull or just one fat cliché after another? Fear not, gentle reader. We have tools and search engines, and even clever strategies to make good book choices. So how do you judge a book by its, er, cover? As in any endeavor, it’s important to
know what you like. Just now, I pulled a Google search for “Debut Novels, 2013.” Many selections popped up. I clicked on the one entitled, “10 Dazzling Debut Novels to Pick Up Now” because I love to be dazzled, and it sounds like a promise. How do I choose? I know my limits. I know what I love and know what I won’t go near with a red hot poker. Here is a small sampler of the “dazzlers,” a brief description of the storyline, and my reasons to adopt or reject them. A Constellation of Vital Phenomena: “A neighbor saves an 8-year-old Chechen girl from the Russian soldiers who have taken her father, and together they seek shelter in an abandoned hospital.” Reject: too sad. Crazy Rich Asians: “Opulence and zaniness reign when one of Singapore’s richest bachelors invites his American-born girlfriend to travel from New York to vacation in his native country.” Reject: Zaniness aside, I’m not terribly interested in fictional adventures of rich bachelors.
The Golem and the Jinni: “Two supernatural creatures accidentally unleashed in 19th-century Manhattan forge an unlikely alliance in this fantastical work of historical fiction.” Adopt: Magic plus historical fiction. Yay! American Spirit: “In this first novel from the outrageously funny host of The Moth podcast, a 40-something media exec goes rogue after losing his job in the recession, taking up drunken residence in his car before embarking on a vision quest to Bali by way of Los Angeles and Yellowstone.” Adopt: Vision quest plus Yellowstone plus Bali. Oh, yes! The Execution of Noa P. Singleton: “In this grippingly off-kilter thriller, a young woman sits on death row after being convicted of murder until a high-powered attorney — the victim’s mother — intervenes, leaving everyone to wonder why.” Adopt: a young murderess saved at the eleventh hour? Hell yes. Golden Boy: “A good-looking, athletic British teenager’s seemingly idyllic life gets turned
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upside down when his oldest friend betrays him, revealing a closely held family secret just as the boy’s father is about to run for political office.” Reject: Politics plus betrayal. Zzzz. And there you have it. Are my selections biased? Yes, without a doubt. I know what I like and life is too short for bad fiction. Cynthia Gregory writes book reviews, award-winning short stories and a blog. Visit her blog at PersephonesStepSisters.Wordpress.com or send email to her at cgregory111@gmail.com
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. NOV. 13 FOR THE NOV. 22
IN CLAYTON Nov. 18 AAUW Meeting American Association of University Women meeting with guest speaker Eizo Kobayashi, Concord Transcript columnist. Topic: Childhood experience during World War II internment. 7:30 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Free and open to the public. Call 686-5513 for more information. First Thursdays Oakhurst Business Network Meets first Thursday of the month for social hour. Hosted hors d’oeuvres, cash bar. 6 – 7:30 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. oakhurstcc.com.
IN CONCORD Tuesdays Farmers’ Market Tuesdays year round, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
ON THE MOUNTAIN Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Events Calendar for more information. Nov. 10 Fire Interpretation Walk Traverse the Mary Bowerman Trail to see how things are progressing in the burned area. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet at Mary Bowerman Trailhead near Lower Summit Parking Lot. Reservations required. Save Mount Diablo programs listed are free unless otherwise noted. Go to savemountdiablo.org and click on Activities/Guided Hikes for more information. 947-3535. Nov. 9 DiRT Day Join the Diablo Restoration Team to prepare the Marsh Creek 4 restoration site for planting season. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at 3240 Aspara Drive, Clayton. Registration required. Contact George Phillips at gphillips@savemountdiablo.org or Jim Cartan at jcartan@savemountdiablo.org; 947-3535.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Thru Nov. 10 Tarzan “Tarzan” tells the story of an infant boy orphaned on the shores of West Africa and raised by gorillas. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $44-$54. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Thru Nov. 23 Don’t Dress for Dinner Here comes the brilliant sequel to Center REP’s hilarious and stylish sold-out hit, “BoeingBoeing.” Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$52. centerrep.org. 943-7469. Thru Nov. 23 Underneath the Lintel Captivating solo drama performed by David Strathairn. American Conservatory Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. act-sf.org. (415) 749-2228. Nov. 9 Irene A musical Cinderella story. 2:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 11 Stroke Support Group Speaker: Steve Molinari, occupational therapist. Topic: John Muir Health Driver Assessment and Rehabilitation Program. 7 – 9 p.m. Ball Auditorium, John Muir Medical Center, 1601 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Free. Contact Ann Dzuna 376-6218. Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day Civic Ceremony Performed by the Walnut Creek Concert Band. 11 a.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 14 Mark Twain A reading of select works by Mark Twain. 8 p.m. Butterfield 8 Theatre at Cue Productions Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. No admission fee; donations accepted. b8company.com. Nov. 15 Tapestry Vocal and handbell ensemble celebrating the holidays and our American heritage. 7 p.m. First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4000 Concord Blvd., Concord. Free. Contact Cindy Krausgrill at 672-7751 or go to tapestryringersandsingers.org.
ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO
Nov. 15 – 16 A Swingin’ Holiday Diablo Ballet kicks off its 20th anniversary season featuring the swingin’ music of the 1930s and 1940s. Nov. 16 matinee: Meet and mingle with the dancers. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $26-$52. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 16 No Scripts Aloud Presented by Ready or Not Improv. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 17 Classic(al) Rock Performed by Contra Costa Wind Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 17 Diablo Symphony Orchestra Inspirations from Nature featuring Ellen Ruth Rose on the viola and Bella Merlin narrating. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$28. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 21 O. Henry A reading of select works by O. Henry. 8 p.m. Butterfield 8 Theatre at Cue Productions Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. No admission fee; donations accepted. b8company.com. Nov. 22 – 23 XXMAS Presented by Smuin Ballet. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $70. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 22, 24 Pinocchio The beloved wooden puppet comes to life in this colorful, musical version of Carlo Collodi’s classic. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $8-$12. elcampaniltheatre.com. Nov. 23 A Salute to the Eagles Hotel California accurately recreates the music and mystique of The Eagles experience. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com. Nov. 23 Perceptions Tony Jones presents the ultimate audience participation comedy show. 7:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 24 Acting Out Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra performs, featuring Jonathan Knight on the trumpet. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 Story of the Nutcracker Performed by Contra Costa Ballet. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $23-$33. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 29 – Dec. 7 A Grand Night for Singing Diablo Theatre Company presents this revue showcasing the music of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein featuring songs from every Broadway musical written by the award winning pair. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $47-$49. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Dec. 3 Holiday Concert Your seasonal favorites performed by the Walnut Creek Concert Band, plus guest appearance by the United States Air Force Travis Brass. 7:30. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14-$17. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469. Dec. 6 - 28 A Christmas Carol True to the spirit of Charles Dickens’ timeless story of redemption with a playful sensibility to his rich language. American Conservatory Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. act-sf.org. (415) 749-2228. Dec. 7 Sing Along Diablo Women’s Chorale performs Home for the Holidays. 3 p.m. Mt. Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church, 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. $10-$15. diablowomenschorale.org.
calendar@claytonpioneer.com
FUNDRAISERS Nov. 8 – 9 Santa’s Smokestack Boutique Local crafters selling handmade items. Benefit for The Crossings Homeowners’ Association. Fri. 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Walnut Country Clubhouse (The Crossings), 4465 South Larwin Ave., Concord. Free admission. No strollers. For more information, call Lani Pryor 672-7097. Nov. 14 Holiday Boutique Fundraiser sponsored by Highlands Elementary Parent Teacher Association. Crafters, distributors and book signings. 2 – 8 p.m. Multi Use Room, Highlands Elementary School, 1326 Pennsylvania Blvd., Concord. For more information, contact Erin James at info@villefrancherental.com or Jennifer Bulmer at jenniferbulmer@yahoo.com. Nov. 20 Vendor and Craft Fair Fundraiser sponsored by Mt. Diablo Elementary Parent Faculty Club. Vendors, crafters, food. 2 – 8 p.m. MDES, 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton. For more information or to rent a table, go to mtdiabloelementary.mdusd.org or contact Lisa York at lisayork@comcast.net. Nov. 24 Holiday Faire Fundraiser sponsored by Clayton Valley Charter High School Parent Faculty Club. Raise money for the students while having fun holiday shopping. Sounds of the season by student choir and band. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. CVCHS, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. For more information or to rent a table, go to cvchspfc.com. Nov. 30 Holiday Vendor Fair Handmade goods, purses, candles, jewelry. Swag bags to first 100 attendees. Proceeds donated to Mt. Diablo Elementary School Parent Faculty Club. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. For more information, contact Mechele Fong at msfong@comcast.net or 330-2385.
AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. claytonlibrary.org or 673-0659. Tuesdays thru Nov. 26 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. 11 a.m. Wednesdays Book Buddies A volunteer will read stories for children 3 and older. 1 - 2 p.m. Call in advance. Thursdays thru Nov. 14 Picture Book Time Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. 11 a.m. Nov. 12, 19, Dec. 3 Paws to Read Learn to read by reading aloud to a dog. Grades 1 – 5. Registration required. 4 or 4:35 p.m. The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. ccclib.org or 6465455. Nov. 9 Computers and Technology If you need help with your mouse, come to our house. Drop-in assistance to learn how to use computers, smart phones and tablets. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Additional dates and times offered. Check library calendar. Nov. 18 LEGO® and Listen Listen to a record book while you build with blocks. Ages 612. Registration required. 7 p.m.
GOVERNMENT 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. 1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Concord City Council 6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.
Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at claytonpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’
November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Performing Arts
A.C.T. extends performance dates for Strathairn’s solo drama An award-winning actor with a compelling story to tell is packing the house and bringing audiences to their feet in Glen Berger’s “Underneath the Lintel” at American Conservatory Theater’s Geary Theater in San Francisco. The sell-out performances prompted A.C.T. to extend this captivating drama starring the Emmy winner and Academy Award nominee, David Strathairn (“Temple Grandin,” “Lincoln,” “Good Night, and Good Luck,”) through Nov. 23. In this riveting ghost story, an eccentric Dutch librarian finds a weather-beaten book in the return bin—and discovers that it is 113 years overdue. Sparked by messages left in the margins, he sets off on a quest to unravel the secrets of the book and the person who borrowed it. From the hallways of his library, he follows a globe-trotting chain of clues dating back thousands of years,
convinced that he is on the trail of the mythological Wandering Jew. “Underneath the Lintel” is a magical piece of storytelling with astonishing twists and turns that draws audiences into an unforgettable odyssey that is both “powerfully human and ultimately sublime” (Variety). Performances run through Saturday, Nov. 23. In addition to the extended performances, A.C.T. is hosting a select number of post-performance, on-stage tours where audience members have the opportunity to get a closer look at the set for “Underneath the Lintel.” The set, designed by Nina Ball, features an assortment of odd and whimsical props and pieces from A.C.T.’s past 20 seasons. For ticket information, performance dates and a schedule of on-stage tours, go to act-sf.org or call (415) 749-2228. All performances are at the Geary Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco.
JONATHAN KNIGHT
Make your plans now for The East Bay’s Favorite Holiday Show
Dec. 13-15, & 20-22
The 28th Annual
Christmas Revels Features a cast of 65, period songs and dances, comedy, gorgeous costumes,
and stories from many traditions to celebrate the Season.
Scottish Rite Theater, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.,
www.californiarevels.org or (510) 452-8800
“It’s like Christmas every week” -A happy Doorstep member DAVID STRATHAIRN AS A QUIRKY LIBRARIAN takes audiences around the world in search of the mythical Wandering Jew in A.C.T.’s ‘Underneath the Lintel,’ playing through Nov. 23.
Chamber Orchestra to showcase trumpet virtuoso Jonathan Knight in concert The Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra has a treat for its audiences with its November concert, titled “Acting Out.” Bay Area trumpet virtuoso Jonathan Knight will perform the spectacular Trumpet Concerto in A-flat (by Armenian composer Alexander Arutiunian), which offers soulful melodies and tongue torturing technical passages. The dramatic program also includes Leonard Bernstein’s
Page 17
“Overture to Candide,” and John Williams’ “The Cowboys Overture” from the music for the 1972 film starring John Wayne. Two works for smaller instrumental forces fill out the program: the “Suite from Threepenny Opera” by Kurt Weill, which includes the popular theme “Mack the Knife,” and Igor Stravinsky’s “L’histoire du Soldat (A Soldier’s Tale),” a musical set-
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ting of a Russian folk legend in which a soldier sells his fiddle to the devil, seduced by the lure of wealth and riches. Concerts are at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 at Los Medanos College Recital Hall in Pittsburg (tickets $5-$10 at the door), and Sunday, Nov. 24, at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek (tickets $10-$30 at the door, by phone at 925-943-SHOW, or online at LesherArtsCenter.org).
Please let our advertisers know you saw them in the Clayton Pioneer 925-672-0500
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
Abelia adds a thrilling kaleidoscope of color green. The adolescent foliage has irregular margins of gold
A b e l i a Kaleidoscope is a spectacular shrub that adds a bold splash of color in your Clayton Valley landscape. This hardy evergreen gets its name from its foliage. Abelia Kaleidoscope’s leaves are like kaleidoscope with their seasonal changing colors and eye-catching variegations. The mature leaves of the Abelia’s undergrowth are twotoned with light and dark
NICOLE HACKETT
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cools, the Abelia Kaleidoscope comes alive with color. The leaves turn to a deep pinkish-copper. During the fall while most other shrub rest, this Abelia demands your attention. In the spring and summer the Abelia Kaleidoscope flowers. Modest, light pink bells tip the tops of the leaves in succession from May through August. The Abelia Kaleidoscope is a compact growing shrub. It can mature anywhere from two- to three-feet tall and slightly wider. Abelia Kaleidoscope thrives in full sun, and likes regular water. This shrub has proven itself to be all that it claims to be. You can be confident in its installation. Abelia Kaleidoscope adds an exciting element to a landscape by providing contrast to the other plants around it. Many Clayton Valley land-
scape and garden lovers use the shrub called Loropetalum with Abelia. Most of the popular Loropetalum available have dark purple leaves. The dark leaves can disappear in the landscape if it doesn’t have a contrasting element. This is where the Abelia Kaleidoscope comes in. Other contrasting shrubs for this Abelia are the dark leafed New Zealand Flax, Cordyline, Luecandendron, Smoke Bush and Barberry. Since the Abelia Kaleidoscope has evergreen leaves it is also well used to compliment small deciduous trees. Use as an under-planting beneath Bloodgood or Emperor One Japanese Maples. It could also be useful planted around Crape Myrtle or Pomegranate multi-trunk trees. To provide winter interest in a flower garden, position Abelia Kaleidoscope near
Mayor, from page 1 tunnel. In the absence of state bond capacity during the recession, federal American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) funds provided $194 million, making the tunnel one of the largest Recovery Act projects in the country. Regional toll bridge and state funds also contributed. The fourth bore provided thousands of jobs to stimulate our county’s economy
while completing this marquee project. HOLIDAYS ARE COMING With Oktoberfest and Halloween behind us and the winter holidays quickly approaching, this seems a good time to think about how we can all give back a little and contribute to our community. The Clayton Business and Community Association
purple flowering Mexican Sage, or Sea Lavender. The dark purple flowers would provide contrast to the bold, colorful leaves of this Abelia. Add some deep orange colored Princess Lilies and Purple Maynight Sage and you’ll have a thrilling flowerbed. A b e l i a Kaleidoscope provides year round interest to any Clayton Valley landscape. It is hardy to our sun, heat and cold. It would make a great installation. The soil beneath our feet is still warm, so there is still time to plant. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Contact her with questions or comments at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
hosted another successful and very profitable Oktoberfest event. All funds raised by CBCA from their many annual fundraising events provide college scholarships and major support for our local school programs, Clayton non-profit organizations, and numerous activities and events in our community. CBCA also pays for and puts up all the holiday decorations in our downtown and hosts the annual Tree Lighting and the Santa and Mrs
Claus Tea. To prepare for the December festivities, more volunteers are greatly needed to help decorate our downtown. You don’t need to be a member to help out. Just meet by the Museum at 9 a.m. on Nov. 16. It only takes a few hours and it will get you in the mood to celebrate. I hope to see you there. As always, you can reach me at JPierce@ci.clayton.ca.us. Let me know what you think.
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November 8, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Treat your TV with the respect it deserves
Oakhurst Country Club
JENNIFER LEISCHER
DESIGN & DÉCOR works with your living space décor. With this option, keep scale in mind as your television relates to the rest of your furnishings and size of living space.
We love our televisions. We have them in our family rooms, our kitchens, our bedrooms, our home offices, and even in our garages and outdoor living spaces. We just can’t get enough of these devices that bring us a never-ending supply of entertainment and information, all at the press of a button. So, let’s talk about how we can honor these fantastic technological devices by how and where we position them throughout our homes. POP-UPS AND ARMOIRES Pop-up cabinets and armoires make great hiding places for your television, should they need a little quiet time away from viewing eyes. Inside a pop-up cabinet, a television is mounted to a bracket that is raised and lowered by an electrical mechanical lift. When the bracket is at its lowest point, inside the cabinet, the top of the cabinet looks like a typical console. Brackets can also be designed with a shelf or two to accommodate the cable box and DVD components. Pop-ups work best in living
spaces where you don’t necessarily want the television to be the center of attention, but still accessible for easy viewing when necessary. These cabinets only require about 18 inches depth to accommodate a television (which is usually a plasma) and the depth of the lift hardware. When space is limited, a pop-up is a good option. Armoires are typically more of the “all-in-one” solution as they not only house a television, but also have plenty of space for cable and DVD components, book shelves or drawers. They can be designed in any fashion, the same as a pop-up, but armoires are usually larger and have more functional storage space. COMMANDING THE SPACE If hiding your television away isn’t really a priority, displaying your television out in the open provides many options. Some examples include mounted to the wall above a fireplace mantel, console or cabinet; inset into a wall or decorative cabinetry; or sitting on a media stand that
TREATS FOR YOUR TV We embellish just about everything in our homes, so why not add a little bling to our televisions? Try adding a decorative frame to your television and see how a very plain monitor becomes a decorative accent that coordinates with the rest of the décor in your living space. Consider purchasing, or using your own, USB stick with images that rotate on your screen. This option turns your television screen into an enlarged photo frame that brings your photos, or purchased artwork images, to life. Now this last “treat” really is a treat. How about installing a television behind your bathroom mirror vanity? This option requires a contractor to help you determine the space you have to work with, as well as purchasing the specialty glass and television components. But how fun would it be to watch the morning news right at your vanity while getting ready for the day? 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.
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mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959
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Page 19
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925-693-0752 (Fax)
Fall Fest
GOLF TOURNAMENT
This Event is open to members & non-members Bring a canned food item to benefit
The Food Bank of Contra Costa County for a discount on the entry fee
Monday, November 18 9:30 a.m. Registration • 11 a.m. SHOTGUN $49++ • $39-- (with a canned food donation) Cost includes: Golf, box lunch, prizes and nacho bar during the awards ceremony.
We hope to see you on the course! TO RSVP or sign up, please call or email (925) 672-9737 • directorofsales@oakhurstcc.com
1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton, CA www.oakhurstcc.com
Page 20
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
November 8, 2013
Temperate October was one for the ages weather-perfect as the October we just experienced. A quick review of local weather records tells the story: Concord Airport temperature data indicate that maximum temperatures climbed above the 70 degrees mark 25 of the first 26 days of the month. On nearly half of those days afternoon temperatures reached at least 80 degrees! Fortunately, the mild afternoons were followed by rapid cooling after sunset. By midOctober, early morning minimums settled into the mid 40s range. Nearly every morning felt as crisp as a fresh apple
WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS In my nearly 40 years of residency in the Bay Area, I don’t think I can recall an autumn month as close to
bought at the farmer’s market. In Mediterranean-style climate regions like the Bay Area, October is usually a transition month between the dry summer season and wet winter season. That was not the case last month. Rainfall was nearly undetectable in the entire Bay Area during the month of October. Some interesting statistics can be gleaned from the San Francisco rainfall records that date back to 1849. That site reports an average of 1.12 inches of rain for the month, and there are normally four days per month with measurable rainfall. However, dry Octobers aren’t that rare. Last month marks the 14th time that no rainfall was reported in October. As a matter of fact, nearly 20 percent (32 total) of all Octobers have total rainfall accumulations of less than one tenth of an inch for the entire month at the San Francisco site. Does the fact that we had a dry October have any winter season (July to June) rainfall predictive value? Not too much it turns out, which is not too surprising since only about 5 percent of the winter rains are recorded during the month. Records indicate that for the driest 32 Octobers, San Francisco winter rainfall has been nearly 90 percent of normal. One ironic fact is that both the wettest and driest winters in the 164-year record have occurred when there was no rainfall reported in October. Soon the winter rains will
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begin in earnest, and cold winds will blow. I’ll enjoy the change in weather, and also look forward to raindrops pattering on my roof. When
thoughts of absolutely delightful fall weather come to mind, it will be hard to forget October 2013.
Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist retired from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
Ageless dressing is all about structure and fit JUDITH MARSHALL
FASHION OVER 50 We’ve all heard it. You should dress your age; age gracefully; wear clothes that are age appropriate. I say, Poppycock! (That’s not really what I say, but this is a family newspaper.) The truth is you can only do so much about the physical signs of aging, but there is a lot you can do to maintain a vibrant and fashionable appearance. Here are some guidelines to consider: The older we get the more structured our clothes should become. Trade the flouncy skirt for a slim pencil style. Seek out stiff fabrics or silky ones with an effortless sway. Choose clothes simple enough to take on interesting jewelry – but sparingly. Stick to classic shoes; the oxford with pants or a closed toe-pump. If you love color, cobalt blue is fall’s most prominent hue. Layer a long blue blazer over black pants. If you’re color-shy, slip into a silky top. Some of this season’s elaborately embroi-
dered or richly patterned pieces should be saved for evening. Then you can pile on big gold necklaces or long earrings as long as they look chic and not like a Halloween costume. Hair and makeup should be regal –
ACTRESS HELEN MIRREN proves that a fitted, elegant look is youthful and timeless.
bold brows, sleek hair. If you’re not up to looking like a member of the jet set, a more subtle reference could be an embroidered satin clutch or velvet slipper – very elegant. A skirt and sweater combo is always timeless. The season lengths range from just above the knee to floor-dusting.
Animal prints remain, but avoid anything tight or revealing – you don’t want to look like a cougar. (Or maybe you do?) Talbot’s has a great-looking loafer if you just want to stick your toe into the animal kingdom. A body-conscious suit is perfect for work. Pair it with roundtoed pumps with stacked heels or an ankle-strap Mary Jane. A buttery soft leather jacket cut and seamed for a fitted silhouette in a fresh color works at any age. Just leave the thigh-high boots to your granddaughter. Pull out your navy coat or better yet, buy one in a vibrant color to brighten up the dreary days of winter. As we age, quality and fit become more important. The right proportions of an outfit can knock years and pounds off your driver’s license. The right clothes have the uncanny ability to make you feel at ease and more beautiful regardless of your age. Live long and pester! Judith Marshall is the author of “Husbands May Come and Go but Friends are Forever,” available on Amazon. Send comments to Judith.Marshall@att.net.