PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
925.672.0500
Clayton grandma dives toward 70 She surprises family with a parachute jump to celebrate 70th b’day ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer
GREGG MANNING
MAYOR’S CORNER
Clayton resident Karen Hammon, who will turn 70 midSeptember, celebrated her birthday early by jumping from an aircraft along with seven other family members. It wasn’t a whim; just a grandmother spending some quality time with the family members she loves dearly. “Two and a half years ago, my grandson Rick Score suggested that he and I go skydiving,” Karen said. “I was kind of joking,” Rick said, “but she said she would.” Rick was about to leave for Argentina for a two-year, faithbased mission and Karen suggested that they wait until his return. “Then in 2006, she told me on the phone that when I came back, we’d go,” Rick said. “I wasn’t serious about her going; I was going to go, but my grandma … that was doubtful.”
Mayor considers reelection options In my last column, I talked about the upcoming election. I ended by saying I would have to weigh the pros and cons on whether to run again. There are a few issues facing the city and the City Council. The biggest issue is the annual money grab from the state and its impact on the city’s budget. There are potential issues under the surface and these may or may not be debated during the upcoming campaign for council. In the July 25 issue, I noted that one incumbent was not running so the November election would find a new citizen representative on the council. The question before me is: What I am going to do? I have thought about my decision for a long time. I have weighed the positives and negatives. Some days, I think it is natural for me to run again. On other days, I believe I have done enough. It seems to depend on my mood and whether things are favorable or unfavorable for the city. I have gotten a great deal of advice as to what I should do and all of the advice
Photo courtesy of Karen Hammon
AS KAREN HAMMON, 69, together with her tandem coach from the Lodi Parachute Center, falls to earth as part of an early 70th birthday celebration, she can cross one more item off of her “bucket list.”
ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer
California Senate Bill 1613, which took effect July 1, makes it illegal for drivers to talk on their cell phones. This doesn’t stop Clayton residents from trying to sneak past the diligent Clayton Police Department. “To date, we have issued 22 citations for VC23123(A), the vehicle code for that offense,” said Lynn Christ, Clayton police coordinator and keeper of department statistics. According to Chief Dan Lawrence, the base fine for the first offense is $20, with $50 for subsequent convictions. “According to the Uniform Bail
See Hands Free page 6
See Skydive, page 7
Downtown busy with summer activities TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
See Mayor page 10
Clayton residents learn about the ‘hands free’ law the hard way
LIVING THE GOOD LIFE Karen, a retiree from the city of Concord, having worked as an administrative secretary for
Downtown Clayton has been a busy place this summer with the Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, the Hot Summer Nights car show on Wednesday evenings, the Clayton Community Church’s free Friday Movie Nights and the Saturday evening concerts in The Grove. The Farmers Market had a huge turnout for the first two Saturdays, reports Genevieve Krause, Market Manager for the Pacific Coast Farmers Markets. A dip in attendance the third and fourth Saturdays was cause for some concern among the farmers, Krause said. But, it picked up after that and has been strong all through June and July. The Friday night movies have been regularly drawing 450 to 500 for the outdoor family movies, said event coordinator
Mike Fossan. The concerts have been wildly successful, drawing 1,5002,000 for the evening concerts in the downtown park. They may be too successful, says Anis Maamari, owner of La Veranda Restaurant. The concerts have had the unintended effect of draining away his Saturday night business. “They’re hurting us,” he said, sitting in a half-filled dining room that should be packed with a waiting list. “I never expected this. They asked me in the beginning what I thought and I said it was a great idea.” Ed Moresi, owner of Ed’s Mudville Grill and Moresi’s Chophouse, has also seen a drop-off in business on concert nights. “But the increased exposure from the hundreds of people coming into Clayton is a good thing,” he says.
See Downtown, page 20
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
THE SUMMER CONCERT series draws upwards of 1500 to the downtown park every Saturday evening. For more concert photos, see Around Town, page 2.
List of prospective candidates grows for Council race TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
There will be three City Council seats up for grabs this November in what promises to be a lively election. Land use in the Town Center and the state’s
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Church News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
intention to “borrow” from local governments to balance the budget are sure to be the two hot topics. Veteran Councilmen Bill Walcutt and Gregg Manning have both announced their intention to retire from office,
Community Calendar . . . . . . . . .18 Concert Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Deal With It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . . .5 Financial Sense . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
leaving Julie Pierce the only incumbent running. The seats held by Dave Shuey and Hank Stratford will not come up for reelection until 2010. In addition to Pierce, seven other Claytonians have signaled their intention to run. Howard
Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . . . .10 For the Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 From the Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Going Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Geller, Joe Medrano, Jim Diaz, Harun Simbirdi, Dan Richardson, Allen Lampo and Keith Haydon have all taken out nomination papers, but to date, only Jim Diaz has turned in a completed application. The deadline is August 13.
Movie Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 School News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Watch the Pioneer for profiles of each candidate, beginning with the Sept. 12 issue. As the election draws closer, we will give all the candidates an opportunity to ask five questions of their opponents. Look for their answers in the Oct. 10 issue.
Tea for You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Travel Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Around Town
Concerts in The Grove 2008
Clayton Rocks! Whether it’s the “Y-M-C-A,” a mid-life take on “The Twist,” or just a swingin’ good time, Claytonians really know how to enjoy a concert. These photos were taken July 26 when Frankie G and The Convictions got every-
August 8, 2008
one movin’ and shakin’ to rock and blues from the 60s to the present. The concerts are most every Saturday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the Grove. Admission is free. Pick up dinner at one of the local eateries, bring lawn chairs and enjoy.
Sponsored by the city of Clayton and the Clayton Business & Community Association
Saturdays 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Free admission.
Gazebo at The Grove Park. Downtown Clayton.
THIS WEEKEND ,
August 9 PHDs: Santana and more
Pioneer hikes with Hacketts
The Pioneer went along with Garden Girl, Nicole Hackett on a recent trip to visit family in Washington. The group hiked up to Wallace Falls for this shot. From left: Joann Adami, Nicole, Tyler and Lance Hackett, Celeste Schmadeke and Melissa Adami.
Pioneer goes crazy with the Yorks
Vintage: Rock and Roll and Oldies 40s-70s
Aug. 23
In Disguise: Light Jazz and Show Tunes
Sept. 6
Diamond Dave Hosley: Variety, Keyboard
Sept. 13
Jambalaya Swing Band: Big Band and Swing
Sept. 20
East Bay Mudd: R & B, Soul, Funk
The York family recently rented an RV and took a family vacation to the Crazy Horse Monument in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Pictured with the Pioneer are Kevin, 11, and Emily, 8.
ED
For more information go to www.cityofclayton.org
CE
CE
RI WP
ST T LI
JUS
$469,980 Clayton Oakhurst – Situated in the popular golf course community of Oakhurst providing a community pool playground and easy access to walking/bike trails. 2BD/2 BA home has a spacious kitchen with tile counters, breakfast nook and living room w/fireplace. Outside enjoy the private backyard with lush greenery and roses. www.700AnizumneCourt.com
Aug. 16
RI WP
NE
$529,980 Concord Garaventa Oaks – Updated to delight w/a great location and price! 4BD/2BA w/open, bright living spaces, hardwood floors, new carpet & dual pane windows that bathe freshly painted rooms in light. Kitchen has great flow, a garden window, Oak cabinets and stainless appliances. Walk to nearby parks & shopping. www.5173GaraventaDrive.com
NE
Clayton $1,398,000 Morgan Territory – Incredible 5BD/5BA custom estate w/4.75 acres & Mt. Diablo views that are unmatchable! 2 flat areas for pool/tennis/barn site. Fantastic gourmet kitchen, family, game & bonus rooms. Boasts 4 fireplaces & a master suite w/Jacuzzi tub appointed to maximize the scenery. www.415LeonCourt.com
Concord $950,000 Crystyl Ranch – 5BD/3.5BA Bacarat-model home w/marble grand foyer, lower level B/B, grecian pool & waterfall + spa. Sophistication & style underscore the formal living & dining rooms and Chef ’s kitchen w/16” Travertine floors, island, GE Profile appliances & Cherry cabinets. Huge mastersuite w/2 walk-ins & balcony w/gorgeous views. www.5358FernbankDrive.com
ED
ST T LI
JUS
$759,980 Clayton Dana Hills – Updates galore in this 4BD/2.5BA home w/stylish backyard pool & spa & plenty of patio to entertain. Stained glass, crown molding & a fabulous wet bar & gas fireplace add accents to the home that are unmatched! A must see! Mt. Diablo & greenbelt views are fantastic. 400 s.f. shop in back. www.222MountaireCircle.com
Clayton $729,000 Silvercreek II – Great curb appeal & fantastic neighborhood! This 4BD/2.5BA is a gardener’s paradise w/pool, patio and planting areas on one level & spa, decking and landscaping on the level adjacent to the family room. Tons of outdoor seating! Open kitchen/dining area w/view to back & dining room with sliding door to pool level patio areas. www.5605OhmanPlace.com
Concord $659,980 Turtle Creek – 4BD/2.5BA w/private cul-de-sac location backs to Turtle Rock Pond & green belt & offers great views! Updates incl. custom paint, upscale porcelain flooring & lighting to make this home show exceptionally. Well-maintained home has great landscaping & incl. sprinklers & proper drainage systems. Owners will miss neighbors. www.1165TurtleRockLane.com
Concord $998,000 Expansive Country Estate – Situated on nearly an acre with breathtaking views of the valley and hills. This beautiful 5BD, 2 BA, 3,202 sq. ft. of living space on one level. Chef ’s kitchen w/granite countertops, cherry cabinets, Thermador gas range & grill, prep island w/sink. Family Rm w/stone fireplace, hardwood flooring and much more. Outside enjoy the sparkling pool, guest house w/kitchen and lot with room for horses/RV! www.5KirkwoodCourt.com
Lynne offers FREE Professional Staging on her Listings
Clayton Resident & Broker Owner
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Can’t beat the loyalty these Upcoming Events men have for local barbershop ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer
Before the stores open for business and before sunlight spills into the Grove, the place to be on a weekday morning is outside the local barbershop, Hair’s the Place. Each morning, there are men waiting for the door to open, some arriving an hour early and waiting patiently. “It’s like going in for a blood test,” Kim Wilkin said, sitting off to one side in dark glasses and a baseball cap.
Wilkin has been a patron for 22 years. “I’m an early type of person,” said John Littig, who has been coming here for 25 years. Littig used to live in Clayton but now lives in Rossmoor and makes the half-hour drive every four weeks. After that half-hour drive, it’s an hour wait for a 10minute haircut. “It’s worth it,” he said, adding that it has become more expensive with the price of gasoline. Al Mierzwilk’s only been coming for seven years but
knows the routine. “They’re closed Sunday through Tuesday. They’re open Wednesday, but that’s when everyone goes, so I go on Thursday.” “It used to be four men barbers and three women. Now it’s two men and four women,” Littig noted. “We get the old geezer rate,” he added.
Greystone resident takes pity on orphaned kit TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
André Gensburger/Clayton Pioneer
Self-described “old geezers” come from far and wide and wait for an hour for a Hair’s the Place haircut.
LABOR DAY DERBY AND CAR SHOW The Fifth Annual Great Labor Day Derby and Antique Car Show is Sat., Aug 30. Kids from 7-14 race free in one of the official soapbox derby cars or a homemade custom car. More than 250 kids are expected to try their hand at driving on a course that stretches along Main Street. For more Derby information, call Peggy Bidondo, 672-9708. Show your antique or classic car in the car show or just come to admire the spectacular entries. Register from 8-10 a.m. For more car show information, call Don Holmes, 689-8759.
A baby raccoon, presumably orphaned, took refuge in a birch tree in Lenore Sweet’s Greystone backyard last Friday and stubbornly refused to be rescued. The kit was one of two that had been attacked by older raccoons the night before. “It was the most horrible sound I’ve ever heard,” said Sweet. “The big ones would throw the little ones out of the tree, then all pile on top and try to kill them. I felt so helpless.” Sweet tried chasing the older animals away, but they were undeterred. Finally, morning came and the marauding band headed for home, leaving the two babies in the tree. Sweet knew the older raccoons would return that night and she was determined to prevent what was sure to be a massacre. “I’m not spending another night listening to that,” she said.
With a call to the Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek, she was referred to Gary Beeman, wildlife rescue and control biologist. For hours, Beeman patiently tried to lure the youngsters out of the tree, but they refused to cooperate. At one point, one of the kits made a break for it, making a beeline up the hill and leaving his sibling behind. When the promise of a tasty snack didn’t lure the baby down, Beeman, using a pole with a noose on the end, made several attempts to grab the kit, but only succeeded in driving the stubborn youngster further up the tree. Beeman next baited a trap with sardines and cat food in an effort to capture the orphan over night for transport to the Lindsay Museum. The next morning, a hopeful Sweet checked the trap only to find the sardines and catfood crawling with ants and no sign of the kit. One can only hope . . .
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
AN EXHAUSTED BABY RACCOON snoozes in Lenore Sweet’s birch tree, unconcerned with the rescue efforts on the ground below.
THERE’S NO COMPARISON
Direct trail access, Three huge arenas, Roundpens, turnouts! Premium feed and bedding, excellent footing — perfect for recreational pleasure riding, western performance, jumping, or dressage. ON-SITE TRAINERS: Jumping: Kat Royeton, Nicole Carroll Equestrian, Santa Maria Training Western Performance: David & Cheryl Busick Dressage: Heather Robertson, Rachel Saavedra, & Courtney Kelly Bio-M Mechanics (all disciplines): Vicki Menear
Riding Lessons Beginner Thru Advanced - Ages 5 to Adult A quality program with an emphasis on horsemanship, safety, and the development of future horse owners and competitors. Call Cara for info 646-3 327-3 3777
(925) 938-9550 1550 Castle Rock Rd.
m
an
k
of A
tib Ci
Ba
ls el
W
nk
Fa
nk Ba
S.
3JUMBO U.
Boarding & Training
rg
o
er
ic
a
Board Rates Starting At $495!
1.25% 1.76% 2.35% 2.65% APY
Rates as of 7/29/08 from published website data
.00% APY
N Check writing privileges*
money market account Minimum account balance of $100,000
N Electronic funds access*
N Unlimited in-person withdrawals
Switch to Travis Credit Union and start earning more! Money market accounts are one of the most popular investment choices for any investor. With a deposit of $100,000 or more and Checking with Direct Deposit,** you will earn an incredible yield while you keep your funds liquid.
5442 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 10 in the new Clayton Valley Shopping Center
Walnut Creek
www.leapoffaithfarms.com
Now Enrolling For Summer Camp — Limit of 7 Campers per Week! Call for Details
Where You Belong Join online, or open an account online at our full - service Web site: www.traviscu.org
Member Service Center (800) 877-8328
NCUA–Your savings federally insured to at least $100,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government. APY=Annual percentage yield. Rate as of July 29, 2008. An APY of 0.50% will be paid on any day the balance falls below $100,000. Dividends are paid on a monthly basis on the first day of each month following the dividend period. The dividend rate and applicable APY on your account are subject to change at any time without prior notice. $100,000 minimum deposit applies to Jumbo money market account. Other money market accounts with varying deposit minimums and rates are available. *Certain types of withdrawals are limited by federal regulations. Transfers from a money market account by means of preauthorized, automatic, Online banking, or telephone instructions are limited to six per month with no more than three transfers, checks, or similar orders to third parties. If these limits are exceeded in any given month, your account will be subject to an excessive transaction fee of $15 per month. See account disclosure for complete details. **To qualify, a TCU checking account is required with a Direct Deposit of at least $500 per month. If Direct Deposit is not established, is canceled or revoked, the APY will be reduced 50 basis points. Everyone who lives, works, worships or goes to school in Contra Costa County is eligible to join. Certain membership requirements may apply.
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
Factors to consider for aging drivers Sponsored by:
Allied Waste Services
EarthTalk answers your questions about Tupperware and CDs/DVDs Dear EarthTalk: I’ve read that plastic bottles are not always safe to reuse over and over as harmful chemicals can leach out into the contents. I’m wondering if the same issues plague Tupperware and other similar plastic food storage containers. - Sylvie, Dawson, via email The recent hubbub over plastic containers leaching chemicals into food and drinks has cast a pall over all kinds of plastics that come into contact with what we ingest, whether deserved or not. Some conscientious consumers are forsaking all plastics entirely out of health concerns. But while it is true that exposure to certain chemicals found in some plastics has been linked to various human health problems (especially certain types of cancer and reproductive disorders), only a small percentage of plastics contain them. According to The Green Guide, a Web site and magazine devoted to greener living and owned by the National Geographic Society, the safest plastics for repeated use in storing food are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE, or plastic #2), low-density polyethylene (LDPE, or plastic #4) and polypropylene (PP, or plastic #5). Most Tupperware products are made of LDPE or PP, and as such are considered safe for repeated use storing food items and cycling through the dishwasher. Most food storage products from Glad, Hefty, Ziploc and Saran also pass The Green Guide’s muster for health safety. But consumers should be aware of more than just a few “safe” brands, as most companies make several product lines featuring different types of plastics. While the vast majority of Tupperware products are considered safe, for example, some of its food storage containers use polycarbonate (plastic #7), which has been shown to leach the harmful hormone-disrupting chemical Bisphenol A (BPA) into food items after repeated uses. Consumers concerned about such risks might want to avoid the following polycarbonatebased Tupperware products: the Rock ‘N Serve microwave line, the Meals-in-Minutes Microsteamer, the “Elegant” Serving Line, the TupperCare baby bottle, the Pizza Keep’ N Heat container, and the Table Collection (the last three are no longer made but might still be kicking around your kitchen). Beyond BPA, other chemicals can be found in various food storage containers. Containers made out of polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE, or plastic #1)—such as most soda bottles—are OK to use once, but can leach carcinogenic, hormone-disrupting phthalates when used over and over again. Also, many deli items come wrapped in plastic made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC, or plastic #3), which can leach cancer-causing dioxins. Swapping foods out of such wraps once the groceries are at home is advisable. Containers made of polystyrene (PS, or plastic #6, also known as Styrofoam) can also be dangerous, as its base component, styrene, has been associated with skin, eye and respiratory irritation, depression, fatigue, compromised kidney function, and central nervous system damage. Take-out restaurant orders often come in polystyrene containers, which
also should be emptied into safer containers once you get them home. If your head is spinning and you can’t bear to examine the bottom of yet another plastic food storage container for its recycling number, go with glass. Pyrex, for instance, does not contain chemicals that can leach into food. Of course, such items can break into glass shards if dropped. But most consumers would gladly trade the risk of chemical contamination for the risk of breakage any day. CONTACTS: The Green Guide, www.thegreenguide.com; Tupperware, www.tupperware.com.
Dear EarthTalk: What’s going on in the music industry with all the CDs and plastic CD holders undoubtedly generating a lot of plastic waste? -John S., via email CDs and DVDs are products with thin layers of different materials mixed together that are difficult to recycle.—most municipal recycling programs won’t accept them, leaving consumers to fend for themselves in figuring out how to dispose of them. As a result, most discarded discs end up in the trash. These difficult-to-recycle materials can pollute groundwater and, in turn, contribute to a whole host of human health problems. But the low cost of producing such topselling consumer items means that replacing them with something greener is not likely anytime soon. Most jewel cases are made out of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) which has been linked to elevated cancer rates among workers and neighbors where it’s manufactured. Furthermore, when PVC is thrown in with regular recyclables it can contaminate entire batches, ruin equipment and cause human health problems. While cardboard and paper jewel cases may be all the rage among a few record labels, the high cost and low durability of such alternatives have kept them largely out of the mainstream. So what’s a conscientious consumer to do? Those willing to pay a small processing fee can send old CDs and DVDs to one of a handful of private companies (such as Washington-based GreenDisk) set up to recycle them into high-quality plastics used in auto parts, office equipment, alarm panels, street lights, electrical cable insulation, jewel cases and other specialized items. Or, you can follow trend and download music. Consumers are already able to download some six million individual digital songs via the 500 or so legal online music services now up and running on the Internet. Most consumer analysts expect this to grow steadily in the coming years, which is good news for the environment. For more information go to www.epa.gov/osw/students/finalposter.pdf; www.greendisk.com, and International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, www.ifpi.org. Source: E/The Environmental Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881
Allied Waste Services is a community partner providing solid waste and/or recycling services. Our 200 employees service 120,000 residential customers and 5,000 commercial customers in Contra Costa and Solano Counties.
Our Mission is to provide high quality, comprehensive solid waste and recycling collection services for residential and commercial customers. We conduct our operations in a safe, ethical and environmentally conscious manner and dedicate our
resources to improving the quality of life within the communities we serve.
(925) 685-4711 http:\\awsccc.com
No one wants to be the person who takes away a senior citizen’s car keys. But every time we read about a senior driver barreling into a crowd or causing a serious collision because of erratic driving, we have to ask ourselves: When is someone “too old” to drive and what can be done about it? Nationwide, drivers 75 and older have the second highest rate for fatal crashes per mile, just behind inexperienced teen drivers. As you get older, you change physically and mentally. These changes affect your driving skills. A senior could be suffering from poor vision, hearing loss or have cognitive impairments that adversely affect driving ability. However, getting older does not automatically make you a poor driver. Many people continue to be safe drivers well into their retirement years. Inevitably, the time will come when many of us will have to limit or stop driving. Most drivers monitor themselves and gradually limit or stop driving when they feel they are no longer safe. Others may have a medical condition, such as dementia or early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, which prevents them from recognizing that their driving abilities have diminished. Some fear the loss of independence. If you are concerned about the driving ability of a family member or someone you know, it is important to approach the issue with sensitivity. Age alone should not be a basis for limiting someone’s driving privilege or taking it away. If your first response is,
“I’m afraid to get in the car with that driver,” there may be a problem. The concern should be about their abilities. If you have not already done so, ride with the driver (if it is safe), observe his/her driving habits and talk about the things you observe. The following are some areas in which to observe while assessing their driving skills:
Does the driver make abrupt lane changes? Does the driver brake and accelerate smoothly? How does the driver react to changes in the driving environment? Does the driver drift into other lanes? Does he/she tire easily? Does the driver have difficulty reading traffic signs? Do they use and/or cancel their turn signals? Does the driver check before changing lanes, pulling from the curb, backing up or driving from a side street? Do they have difficulty turning to look over their shoulder? What are the reactions of other drivers?
Evaluate what you have observed and have a conversation with the senior driver. If you have grave concerns about their driving abilities and their driving presents an immediate danger to the safety of themselves and others, it is important to act quickly. While many drivers ultimately agree to limit or stop driving, you may need to refer your family member or friend to the DMV for an evaluation.
DAN LAWRENCE
FROM
THE
CHIEF
You can go to www.dmv.ca.gov and download a “Request for Driver Reexamination” (DS 699) form to fill out and mail. You may also write a letter to the DMV safety officer in your local office about the driver with diminished driving abilities. Law enforcement intervention may be necessary in situations where the driver is unsafe and/or unwilling to curtail driving. If a police officer sees dangerous driving situations or vehicle code violations, the officer has probable cause for a traffic stop. If the car was being driven by a senior or medically disabled driver, the officer can require the driver be reexamined by DMV. The officer will fill out the appropriate DMV form and send it in. If the observed driving was very dangerous, the officer can temporarily suspend the driving privilege until the DMV exam. Transitioning from driver to passenger is not always easy. Be patient, open and sincere. Do not let fear or guilt delay addressing your concerns. If you have questions or need additional advice, please contact the Clayton Police Department at 673-7350.
Dan Lawrence is Clayton’s Police Chief. Please send your questions, comments or topics you’d like to see covered to DanL@cpd.ci. concord.ca.us
Who says size doesn’t matter?
ANDRÉ GENSBURGER
DEAL WITH IT Big things start from little things, although not always good things. Simplicity begets complexity, obesity and indulgence. Civilization rests upon the bones of simplicity, balancing in some almost obscene way to retain its identity from humble beginnings. It demands work to balance, yet more and more society does not want to balance it. The youth today, as with all youth throughout time, differ only by the level of challenge they present. They want to take and not give, want to get and not earn, want to see and not read and want simplistic bass rhythms rather than complex musical scores for multi-piece orchestras that some dead composer was able to create in his head at a very young age when people actually learned things. Now we have rap! There are lots of big people, a fact not lost on Pixar. In its “WALL-E” movie, they decided the future of the space-faring human race, cruising the cosmos on a corporate Love Boat type spaceship, is to become very large blobs of flesh, with shortened limbs, consuming the jumbo-sized
junk food at an even more alarming rate than now, while fixed to floating deck chairs. Big things also come in small packages, like diamond rings made up of simple carbon molecules densely packed under pressure, heat and eons of geologic time so that they can whisper “I love you.” Nuclear bombs that can destroy a city came alive by splitting a simple atom of hydrogen. There are simple positive or negative charges that translate into binary code for a computer, upon which the societies of the world exist, both civilly and financially, and on which spammers rely much to our collective dismay. Even television started as a single electron fired from a gun at a phosphorous screen and, through magnetic plates, moved and intensified to create a screen image. One electron at a time. From that little thing we have thousands of worthless channels devoted to everything one could possible imagine but would be afraid to request. “I think; therefore I am” was the simple, Renaissance chant of the enlightened, who, along the way, became very complex with Freudian, Jungian and other psychological absolutes that spawned a huge couch industry and generations of complexes that would need eternal therapy. God is often described as having “a little voice,” while a little hope goes a long way. Everywhere you look, little things add up, pennies to dollars to trillions of national debt. Humans started to speak
from guttural sounds smashed together into a common system of sounds that allowed for more than finger pointing. From there came multiple languages, some more complex, others filled with slang, as well as the ability to hurl insults. Like the little weapons of old, stones became spears, swords, guns, missiles, lasers and more. People often talk about having a simpler life, one where they can sit and watch the world in peace without being a part of the rat race. The same people make life more complicated than it needs to be by imposing rules and regulations only to violate them when convenient. A sip of wine can saturate you with flavor; highlight the texture, the bouquet, like a well-played symphony. Most people like their wine in large glasses, drowning the sensation, as well as numbing the mind. Considering that all life began as a single cell and, before that, a single atom from which we have raised billions of lives, many societies, cities, artworks, technologies and destroyed as much, if not more, of the same, one has to wonder whether bigger is better, whether the little things are the things that we should hold the tightest before some genius comes along and finds a way to make it all bigger and mucks it up for everyone else who just can’t deal with it.
André Gensburger is a staff reporter and feature writer for the Pioneer. His email address is andre@claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Rep. Miller to host Town Hall Meeting in Clayton P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor A NDRÉ G ENSBURGER , Reporter and Feature Writer J EANNA R OSS , Reporter and Feature Writer P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor R ANDY R OWLAND , Sports Writer B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant Jill Bedecarré, Her spirit is our muse
PIONEER INFO CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com André Gensburger Andre@claytonpioneer.com Beth Neudell beth@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send Church News to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com
Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com
CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: Non-profit: $12 for first 30 words, $.20 each additional word Individual/non-commercial: $18 for first 30 words, $.30 each additional word Commercial: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 6720500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Or, you may fax your typewritten ad and credit card information to (925) 672-6580 All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa)
George Miller (D-Martinez,) will address various constituent questions including concerns about the economy, rising gas prices, and the war in Iraq. Individuals can request ADA accommodation and get more information by calling (925) 602-1880.
When: Aug. 13, 7-8 p.m. Where: Endeavor Hall, corner of Center and Oak Streets Get the latest news at www.house.gov/georgemiller
Correction
We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.
LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than one double spaced page and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter in a Word Document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.
In last issue’s story on Clayton PD’s newest sergeant, we reported that Tim Marchut is the son of Roberta Marchut of Clayton. We neglected to say that he is also the son of John Marchut of Clayton. We apologize for the omission.
Classified BUSINESS FOR SALE Gift Shop. Well established gift shop for sale. Owner retiring. Start the new year in a business you’ll love. 925672-7514.
GARAGE SALE Clayton Multi Family Garage Sale 5151 Keller Ridge Drive. Aug. 9th (Sat.) and Aug. 10th (Sun.) 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Olympic weights and cage, elliptical machine, men’s, women’s, toddler girl clothes, golf accessories, baseball cards, comics, pedal-car wagon, TV, stereo, VHS movies.
Tutoring for grades 2-5 all subjects. Study skills/ Homework help. Professional, mature, and kind. Will come to your home or the local library. Please call Janet, 925-672-4360. Tutor. My specialty is language arts. Have taught both primary and elementary grades. 28 years teaching experience. I’ll come to your home. I’m flexible and affordable. Call Miss Kim at 925-938-3985.
HELP WANTED Sports Writer Needed
SERVICES Dump Runs. Need to go to the dumps? Don’t have a truck? Call Dick – let Dick dump it for you! Local resident. (925) 639-3933. Translation. German English translation. Call Ingrid, 672-5369, cell 6838952. House Sitter. Going away this summer? Don’t feel like sending your pets to expensive kennels? Want some green left in your plants when you get home? Then what you need is a house sitter. Call Megan at 478-9931 or email meganamelia_8806@yahoo.com so you can sit back and relax on your vacation.
TUTORS Tutor/Educational Coach. Experienced classroom teacher.
To help cover the local sports scene for the Clayton Pioneer and The Concordian. Interview subjects, write features and suggest story ideas. Must be computer literate and competent with a camera. The Pioneer is published twice a month and the Concordian once a month and requires a time commitment of about 8-12 hours per issue. Compensation depends on experience. Call Tamara 672-0500 or email interest and resume to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Real Estate Agents. Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today (925) 672-8787. Tai-Chi Teacher. Seeking teacher to practice Tai-Chi or Qigong in Downtown Park – one morning a week to start. If you are interested in sharing this experience and can lead the practice, please call Stephanie 925932-7329 or email stephanie@helenandstephanie.com.
LOST AND FOUND
All types of mechanical repairs and computer diagnostics including 30K, 60K, 90K factory maintenance on all European, Imported and domestic vehicles. Official uttle
Free sh or f service rs
Smog Ch ec and Rep k air Station
epai major r
Lost Cat. $50 Reward for recovery of IVAN, a 5 year old Maine Coon cat weighing 12 lbs, with bright yellow eyes; missing more than a week from Indian Wells Way. If found call Ann at 925-672-8390. Found Cat. Young tabby with grey, black and white coloring. Chest and belly are white along with some white on her face. All four of her paws are white as well. She has a small black speck on her left nostril. Her eyes are light green-yellow and her tail is raccoon-striped. Please email Sue Fania suefaina@hotmail.com Found Keys. Set of keys found on trail near Samuel Court. Please call (925) 673-3853
VOLUNTEERS WANTED
Our professionals are here to serve you: Amir, Jameson, Gary, Alex, Peter
Corner of Clayton Road and Kirker Pass Road
FLUSHES $10 off coupon valid for most cars exp. 8/21/08
A/C SERVICE
$10 off
$10 off
coupon valid for most cars
coupon valid for most cars
exp. 8/21/08
SMOG CHECK
$10 off
$10 off
exp. 8/21/08
925 672-3900
BRAKE INSPECTIONS
SUMMER SAFETY INSPECTION coupon valid for most cars
(plus certificate) coupon valid for most cars
exp. 8/21/08
exp. 8/21/08
OIL CHANGE Includes free 30 point inspection
$29.95 (regularly $34.95) coupon valid for most cars
exp. 8/21/08
Meals on Wheels Drivers 1 – 1 1/2 per week. Drivers and relief drivers needed for delivery of Meals on Wheels in East County. People are on the waiting list due to lack of drivers. A small amount of your time can make a big difference in someone’s life. If you can help please call Jim at 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@sbcglobal.net. Anna’s Attic Volunteers Volunteers needed at the Hospice of the East Bay thrift store. The address of the store is 5350 Clayton Road. Call store manager, Debbie, at 674-9072 or Lamont Campbell at (925) 766-5066. Clayton Community Library. Volunteers needed. All positions require a minimum age of 13 years and a 6 month commitment. Lead Tutor - to help facilitate the request for tutors in our volunteer tutoring program. Required good communication skills and a desire to help students in the community. Telephone and email work can mainly be done from home. Graphic Displays and Events Photographer - can be done by one or two people.Take photos at our many library events and put the photos on display in the library before it is eventually placed in our library scrapbook. Choice photos of library events can be used for submitting to newspapers. Contact: Arlene @ 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org.
Page 5
Directory of Advertisers Auto Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Diablo Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288-0981 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Construction and Trades Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Butch’s Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(707) 718-5778 FS Construction/AFU Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4546 Insite Design and Build . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .980-0465 Ken Mitolo Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2460 Majestic Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-1545 Mt.Diablo Window Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-1545 Michael Dwyer & Sons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3980 Pavers by Howard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .766-2574 S&K Nellis Painting, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-2233 Schaefer’s Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-6065 Smith & Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0138 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Tip Top Kitchen and Bath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .497-5699 Dining and Entertainment AJ’s Sports Pub & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .459-0574 Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Cinco de Mayo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0517 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Financial and Insurance Services Benton, Mureleen - Ameriprise Financial . . . . . .685-4523 Carol Keane and Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .937-5200 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 College Planning Specialists, CFS Inc. . . . .888-210-2606 Doug Van Wyck - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Richard Littorno - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-877-8328 We the People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246-0370 Funerals Neptune Society of Northern California . . . . . . . .944-5100 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Home and Garden A and J Fencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .370-0747 Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Design Dynamics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4968 Floors to Go Danville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .820-8700 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Sparkle Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-5025 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Today Hauling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .497-4907 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Mailing and Shipping The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Medical Services Children's Dentistry of Walnut Creek . . . . . . . . . .938-2392 Personal Products and Services Beautique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0405 Clayton Mind and Body Connections . . . . . . . . . .673-0686 Isagenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .570-5187 Rosebud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-888-476-7328 Pet Services Aussie Pet Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-738-6624 Cat Hospital of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2287 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Real Estate and Mortgage Services Classic Real Estate and Mortgage Services . . . .932-3157 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Laurence, Pete - RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .937-0150 Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . .280-8563 Rahimzadeh, Helen - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . .932-7375 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation Clayton Community Church Car Show . . . . . . . .689-8759 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby . . . .673-5337 Leap of Faith Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .938-9550 Mavericks Sports Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-5600 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9737 YMCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .889-1600 Senior Services Aegis of Concord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .692-5838 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Services, Other Allied Waste Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-4711 Concord Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .943-0180 Sho Sho’s Daycare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207-1479 Sweet Beginnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .408-7699 Shopping Cegielski Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-2855 Clayton Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-3325 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Donna's Quilting Loft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0401 Pacific coast Farmers Market . . . . . . . . . . .800-949-FARM Seasonal Reflections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4425 Sonset Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-8200 Sorelle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3500 The Royal Rooster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2025 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
Buying ‘as is’ can have its advantages
Est.1972
Smith & Bernal
Roofing $25 off GUTTER CLEANING limited time offer
Tile repairs Wood shake Tar and gravel Gutters Inspections Bird abatement
Repair Specialists Same day response
Free estimates
(925) 672 0138 Clayton resident
Lic. Number 727021
Installations – Repairs Toilets Faucets Water heaters Garbage disposals Clogged drains
Belfast Plumbing
Clayton
Resident
(925) 457-5423 www.belfastplumbing.com License. 906211
When a property is sold “as is,” it usually means the seller won’t warrant the condition of the property. The buyer buys the property in its current condition and takes responsibility for correcting any defects. Probate and foreclosure sales are often “as is” sales. In both cases, the seller acquired the property through adverse conditions. In the case of a probate sale, the previous owner died and the property is being sold to settle the estate. With a foreclosure sale, the previous owner stopped making mortgage payments and the property is being sold by the lender. In these situations, you may be buying from a seller who doesn’t have any knowledge about the property condition. There may or may not be reports available. Even if the seller has reports, have the property thoroughly inspected by qualified professionals before you buy. The benefit of buying “as is,” even if the property is in poor condition, is that you’ll pay a lower price than you would if the property was in better con-
dition. The costs that are determined by the sale price will be lower. And your property taxes might be lower.
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ESTATE Another benefit is that you’ll be in control of rehabilitating the property, so the fix-up work will reflect what you want in the home – not someone else’s taste. However, you’ll need to pay for the improvements. Carefully investigate the renovation costs so that you don’t overpay for a rundown property. “As is” buyers who are planning to make big modifications to the property should check
Hands Free, from page 1 and Penalty schedule, with the addition of penalty assessments, a first offense is $76 and a second offense is $190,” he noted. While it does not count as a point on the driving record, the conviction will be listed. The bill allows for exceptions for calls to law enforcement agencies for emergency purposes or emergency service personnel.
Free Family Fun Clayton Community Church presents the Fifth Annual
In association with Insurance Management Corp.
Sat., Aug. 30, 2008 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event is intended as an opportunity for family fun. Kids age 7-14 can register. There is NO fee to participate. Register by August 24th to get a free t-shirt and run in two races.
e! e r F e c Kids Raprovided!car, Cars atorebuild your ownrera.ce
tu sh If you wi tact Doug LaVen racers. 0 con to 1st 25 d e it m li y Entr
For event info contact: Doug LaVenture (925) 673-5337, dlav42@yahoo.com
The Clayton Farmers Market will temporarily relocate to the Endeavor Hall parking lot on Derby Day.
For registration info contact: Peggy Bidondo (925) 672-9708, pbidondo@pacbell.net
Registration form available online at www.claytoncc.com
Commercial truck drivers, tow truck drivers and operators of farm vehicles are exempt. Hands-free headsets, including many Bluetooth devices that provide for a wireless connection to phones, allow drivers to dial by voice commands and answer calls at the touch of a button on the earpiece. You may not, however, have a Bluetooth
with the local planning department to make sure that their plans are realistic. Some cities have strict design review requirements that homeowners must satisfy before renovating their homes. In addition, plan on the project costing more than you anticipate it will. Often buyers buy “as is” regarding a specific item, rather than buying the entire property on an “as is” basis. Let’s say the deck is dry rotted and termite infested and needs to be replaced. The seller is willing to have the work done, but the buyers don’t want the deck replaced as it is. They want to expand it and add French doors leading from the kitchen to the deck. It’s unreasonable to expect sellers to pay for buyers’ remodeling projects. However, most sellers will reduce the sale price by the amount of the seller’s deck replacement bid if the buyers take the deck “as is.” The buyers get a lower purchase price and they gain control over the project. Of course, they have to pay for it. For buyers who are short on
cash, it might be better to ask the seller to give cash credit at closing (called a closing cost credit) for the amount of the seller’s deck bid. The sale price is not reduced, but the buyers receive cash at closing that can be used for the deck work. Make sure to check with your lender regarding a closing cost credit. Most lenders will allow such a credit, but there are limitations. For instance, the total amount of the credit can’t exceed 3-6 percent of the purchase price. And it usually can’t exceed the total amount of the buyers’ nonrecurring closing costs (closing costs paid on a one-time only basis, like mortgage points). Buying “as is” is not recommended for first-time buyers, or for any buyer who can’t cope with the additional workload and stress that goes along with remodeling.
device covering both ears as this prevents hearing emergency vehicles approaching and represents a danger. “The simple fact is it’s dangerous to talk on your cell phone while driving,” Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said at the signing of the bill in 2006. “CHP data show that cell phones are the No. 1 cause of distracted-driving accidents.” Surprisingly, the law does not prohibit text messaging
while driving, although this is considered an unsafe practice. Lawrence said an officer can pull you over if you appear to be distracted while driving, whatever you may be doing. Given the number of citations issued within the month, it seems apparent that Clayton residents are having a measure of difficulty with the new ruling. However, Clayton police are not having any difficulty issuing citations.
Lynne French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions, contact her at 672-8787, Lynne@LynneFrench.com or stop in at 6200 Center St. in Clayton.
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
This summer, travel back in time with this ‘Wife’
Recently, I read a Salon.com confession of a college English professor who videotapes episodes of a popular daytime TV drama and devours them scene by scene after her children have gone to sleep. She defends her little secret, insisting that it teaches her about humanity, and I can’t say that I disagree. There’s something comforting in knowing that even though we harbor high literary standards, the persistence of human drama unites us all on a primordial level we can’t resist. (Or maybe we can resist but shouldn’t.) My final selection for summer reading is the delicious first novel by writer Indu Sundaresan, “The Twentieth Wife.” What makes for better summer reading than a romance novel? “The Twentieth Wife” has
got everything good summer and handsome son, Prince reading should have. It has an Jahangir. What ambition! Can international scope: The book she carry the impossible to conis set in mid-16th century India. clusion? It has historical relevance: It Raised in an idyllic estate, unfolds in the Mehrunnisa palaces of India’s dreams abstractly Mughal Empire of marrying the and we are given prince but has no lessons in polisolid plan to tics, social strucmake her dreams ture and, not unfold. Then she least importantly, accidentally the lives of meets him and he women. Finally, is stunned by her “The Twentieth adolescent beauWife” is about ty, the curve of CYNTHIA GREGORY her neck, the dangerous love: the most endur- FOR THE BOOKS pout of her chering reason to read ry-stained lips. fiction. But alas, their This well-researched novel love is thwarted as he is promis a page turner. It begins with ised to another. the harrowing tale of a penniIn a stolen moment, they less Persian nobleman, strug- share a burning kiss. But she is gling to cross the dessert with promised to become the wife of his wife and young children. the brutish soldier Ali Quli. The Fast forward a decade and the would-be lovers become sepanow-prosperous émigré is a rated by geography, marriage, minor dignitary in Emperor political intrigue. Akbar’s court. What luck! Years pass, the prince Even more fortunate, his become emperor, adds a series children are healthy and thriv- of wives to his harem and outing, especially young wardly forgets his youthful Mehrunnisa, his beautiful infatuation. For her part, the daughter who secretly dreams miserably married Mehrunnisa of marrying the emperor’s rich lives in near-exile with a near-
Skydive, from page 1 the city manager, wasn’t about to settled down into retirement. “Life is to be lived,” she said. “I’ve been a widow for 14 years – I had a good life.” Her husband, H. Grant Hammon, who passed away from cancer, wanted her to enjoy life. “He told me, ‘I want you to get on with your life,’ ” she said. “He always said that life was what happens when you have other plans.” Her husband had always wanted to fly in a glider plane and never had his wish realized. Karen, no stranger to travel, has seen the world. “I’ve ridden elephants in India and Nepal and camels in Cairo by the pyramids,” she said. “I travel two to four trips a year and I just got back from China and Vietnam and Japan.” FAMILY AFFAIR Upon the return of her grandson, plans were made for the jump. The duo decided upon the Parachute Center in Lodi. “I told the family what we were going to do and opened it up to them if they wanted to come along,” Karen said.
“Fourteen of them came along and six of those jumped with us.” The jumpers included her son Mark, grandsons Levi, Jason, Jeff and Rick, and granddaughter Janelle. On July 19, the family showed up for training and simple instructions on what to expect. Each jumper would be in tandem – tethered to an experienced jumper who would guide them and pull the ripcord at the appropriate time. The parasail would open and they would glide back down to earth after a few minutes of freefall. “I did record a video beforehand,” Karen noted, “telling my family that if anything went wrong not to feel bad – I went out doing what I wanted to do.” THE WIND IN HER FACE Aside from that precaution, Karen reports that she had no trepidation. “They tell you how to hold your hands and what to do when you jump.” What she did notice was the noise of the air in her ears the moment she left the aircraft. “It was so loud that it took three days for it to clear up,” she said.
Moments after stepping out, the wind against her face caused her skin to ripple, not unlike the wind tunnel tests they show on television where helpless people are strapped to chairs spun around a giant room. “Once he pulled the parasail,” Karen said, “there was a jolt. He had his hands behind my head so it wouldn’t snap back. Then we got to sail around for a long time and I could take my goggles off.” Karen recalls that part with the most affection. She could see the land beneath and the sky above and had a sense of floating. She was the last one to land. “The interesting thing was that not one time was I frightened,” she said. Karen had told her friends at Butterfly Life, where she started working out in preparation for the jump. “I had the stress test done at my doctor’s office,” she said, “and I was getting in shape.” Her friends were amazed. “They would tell me, ‘I can’t believe you did that,’ ” she said. As it turns out, she is not the oldest family member to have jumped from a plane. “My family in Utah has also done this,” she said. “The mother of one family member was 98 years old and she skydived. It made the
barbarian. She is given a glimmer of hope when finally she gives birth to a beautiful daughter, her only delight in a loveless marriage. The odds are stacked impossibly against Mehrunnisa. Set against a backdrop of glaring riches and sinister danger, her story is complicated by one dizzying cliffhanger after another. Like every romantic heroine, our girl has gumption and persistence and she never gives up on love. Sure, it’s a little cheesy and little predictable, but “The Twentieth Wife” is a great romantic romp through the history of a part of the world that is strange, exotic and fascinating. It’s human drama at its best, with a little history lesson tossed in for good measure. I give it a B+. Cynthia Gregory is a local writer who has won numerous awards for her short fiction. Her work has appeared in Glimmer Train Press, the Red Rock Review, Writer’s Digest, The Sun, The Ear, Santa Barbara Review, Black River Review, Briarcliff Review, Chicago Tribune, Bon Appetit, and the Herb Quarterly. You can write her at ceegregory@aol.com.
Page 7
! NEW! W E N ! NEW
FREE regular burrito with purchase of one Super Burrito
FREE chips and salsa
with take out order
Cinco De Mayo
We also do catering for all occasions.
5415 Clayton Rd, 524-0517
in town s o t i r r Best bu
Get a full 60 minute massage for $50 with this ad.* Call or make an appointment online at www.mind-and-body-connections.com. *Must present ad to get discount. No gift certificates. Other restrictions may apply. Expires 8/31/08.
ww w.m (925) 673-0686 om s.c i n dn o i t c and-body -conne
Introducing
Party Rentals for every party occasion and business seminars. High quality, competitive prices on tents, tables, chairs, linens & silverware. Everything you need for a successful party or meeting.
15% off Tent, table & chair rentals with this ad. (exp. 9/30/08) All other rental items and retail products are not included
Halloween is near. We’ll be fully loaded
local news and I was watching – she was rubbing her ears, as well.” NEXT STOP: NORWAY While Karen doesn’t turn 70 until Sept. 14, she has another trip planned for August. “Scandinavia,” she said. “It’s a cruise. We’ll end in Oslo and see the fjords.” And that won’t be the end of her adventures. “I still have a few things on my ‘bucket list,’ ” she said. “I want to hot air balloon or take a helicopter over the glaciers. I’m lucky enough to have friends to do these things with.” After her husband died, Karen sold their Concord home to their son and moved to Clayton. “I love Clayton,” she said. “I loved living in Concord, too, but the house was just too big.” “She is the coolest grandmother ever,” said Rick. “She doesn’t act her age, and she’s doing a great job staying young.” “Here I am,” Karen said, “a little girl from Utah, whose ambition was to grow up and marry and have a family. I never expected how it has turned out I have been all over the world.” And with a smile and a glint in her eyes, she added: “I choose to enjoy life. I choose to enjoy.”
Now open in Clayton!
by the end of August.
Mon - Thu 9 - 8, Fri & Sat 9 - 9 Sun 10 - 4
John Sharapata, Owner & Clayton Resident
672-4425 Clayton Valley Shopping Center
5434 Ygnacio Valley Road, Ste. 130
or visit our online store: www.seasonalreflections.com
Europe
CALL FOR SPECIAL BOOKING OFFER
10-night Mediterranean Cruise round trip from Barcelona Oct. 30, 2008. Balcony stateroom with air fare from $2,999/pp* Thanksgiving Holiday Sailing Nov. 21, 2008. 12-nights Mediterranean round trip Barcelona. Balcony stateroom with air fare from $2,699/pp*
Asia Deluxe small ship cruising with only 694 guests *Prices are subject to change and based on double occupancy. Government taxes additional. A fuel supplement of up to $15 per person, per day will apply.
For Valentines Day 14-night sailing Tianjin (Beijing) to Hong Kong. Balcony stateroom with air fare for $3,999/pp*
Luxury Cruise Experts For reservations or information call
(925) 672-9840 Clayton Station Shopping Ctr. 5439 Clayton Rd., Ste. F
Experience the difference! CST #2033054-40
Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
The end of summer can be monsoon season in Bay Area WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS
Think taxes before you give In planning donations to charity, consider giving long-term appreciated property instead of selling the property first and donating the cash. You’ll get a deduction for the market value of the property with-out paying capital gains tax on the appreciation. Do the opposite with property that has lost value: sell it to get the tax loss and give the money to charity for a deduction. 700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., #360 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Carol@carolkeanecpa.com (925) 937-5200 (925) 937-5202 fax www.carolkeanecpa.com
ors ract Cont ome Welc
KITCHEN
DESIGN! ” REFACE ” REMODEL ” WHOLESALE PRICING
925-825-0612 1170 Burnett Ave., Suite H, Concord
10’ 10’ x with n e kitch e top, t i n gra alled t s n i 0 $6,90
The Clayton area climate is classified as Mediterranean, meaning the annual rainfall pattern includes a dry summer season and wet winter season. However, during the late summer months of August and September, our area is susceptible to occasional rainfall activity due to surges of subtropical moisture steered to the area by jet stream winds. These rainstorms are knows as monsoon rains, and they are part of a seasonal pattern called the North American monsoon. The word monsoon is derived from the Arabic word mausim, which means “season of winds.” Centuries ago, sailors using trading routes between Arabia and India noted dramatic seasonal changes in wind direction that repeated each year. During winter, sailing ships encountered dry northeasterly winds blowing from the Asian continent. In the summer season, moisture laden winds would blow from the ocean toward the continent, and the rains associated with this flow pattern were called monsoon rains. The change in wind patterns is directly related to the amount of heat the Asian continent receives. During summer, the land mass is heated by intense solar radiation. Rising hot air creates a large area of
low surface pressure over the land. A pressure gradient between the cool ocean and warm land develops, peaking in late summer. This forces moisture-laden ocean winds to blow toward the land. Clouds form as this air rises over land, followed by the development of heavy rains and thunderstorms. The Indian monsoon is considered to be the most intense in the world, and some parts of India receive more than 40 feet of rain in less than four months. One weather station in Cherrapunji, India, recorded more than 36 inches of rain in a single day of monsoon rainfall. Fortunately, the North American monsoon is much less intense than its Indian cousin. However, the basic forces that cause our monsoon are similar. The land mass in the southwestern United States heats up during the summer months, creating an area of low pressure. Subtropical moisture from either the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf of California or eastern Pacific Ocean moves over the region. Which part of the Southwest is affected by the moisture is dependent on the position of the jet stream. If the jet stream winds are southerly, monsoon rains inundate eastern Arizona and New Mexico. When the jet stream winds are from the southeast, the monsoon moisture moves westward over western Arizona, Nevada and
the deserts and mountains of Southern California. Once or twice a year, on average, the steering jet stream winds will be strong enough from the southeast to guide subtropical moisture toward the Bay Area. If the subtropical moisture source is plentiful, for example, when the remains of a hurricane contribute to the moisture source, our late summer dry season can be interrupted by periods of rain and thunderstorms. Unlike India, however, our monsoon rains seldom produce more than a few inches of rain. Monsoon rains are an important aspect of life in many parts of the world. In a normal year, they are responsible for providing reliable agricultural yields for much of the Asian continent. Failure of the
monsoon to develop can result in drought, while abnormally strong monsoon rains can result in extensive flooding. Both situations greatly affect agricultural harvests in the region and result in famine in worse-case situations. For the Bay Area, located on the fringe of the North American monsoon, rains associated with this weather phenomenon are seldom destructive, although lightning associated with these events can result in damage and spark wildfires. In any case, monsoon rains provide an unusual exception to our typical dry summer weather pattern. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
Glasbergen Chuckles
Middle School After School Program for teens entering sixth through eighth grade The Middle School After School program at Diablo View Middle School provides a safe, fun an educational experience for each child.
Snack Physical Activities Homework/Tutoring Field Trips Cooking/Home Economics
For all your Electrical Needs. All work done by owner.
Residential g Commercial g Industrial Professional Installation of: Ceiling Fans, Recessed & Track Lighting Kitchen or Bath Remodel Exterior/Security/Landscape Lighting Electrical Service Upgrade Complete Home Wiring - Old & New Spa Installation Custom Homes Office & Building Maintenance Repairs Insurance Repairs Troubleshooting Call Jim for a & much more
phone
FREE Estimate Today
925.672.1519
Bonded & Insured Licensed l Lic. # C10-631523
Cost: 5 days a week - $90 (includes one enrichment program) Additional enrichment program $10/week Enrichment Programs include: Sports, Modern Day Treasure Hunters, CPR/First Aid classes, Babysitting Training and many more. 3 day a week - $54 $10 each additional day Teens will only be permitted to attend the session if they are registered in advance. The registration deadline is one week prior to the start date of each session.
James J. Burkin Sole Proprietor
For more information on the Mt. Diablo Region YMCA Middle School After School program, please call Christine Molale at 925.692.2360
cell
925.212.3339
Serving Contra Costa since 1991 30 years experience
www.burkinelectric.net
WE
BUILD STRONG KIDS, STRONG FAMILIES, AND
STRONG
COMMUNITIES.
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 9
Club News Knights support Bridge program for young adults The Knights of Columbus, Concord Council 6038, presented a check to the Mt Diablo Bridge Program for the purchase of equipment to start their cooking program for the mentally challenged and physically handicapped students 18 thru 22. The Bridge program receives no funds from the school district, instead relying on donations from the community. Dedication by the teachers has made a difference in these young adults’ lives. The Knights previously donated funds to buy a complete set of DVD’s that instruct students how to live on their own or in an assisted living facility.
Call today for locations and times of classes
925-408-7699
WE THE PEOPLE LOW COST, FAST, ACCURATE DOCUMENT PREPARATION YOU
MAKE THE DECISIONS
Photo credit: Colleen Pohley
PAM BARNETT
TEA
FOR YOU
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – William Butler Yeats With the approach of fall comes the exciting rush of a new school year. Students look forward to new classes, new friends and new school supplies. Mothers look forward to quieter days and the joy of homework enforcement. A Back to School Tea can be just the thing to ease into the routine of a new school year, while saying farewell to summer. In addition to spending quality time with your children, you will share a special ritual with them and encourage teatime in a new generation. This simple, comforting act can be tailored to any age, and
your guests are sure to remember it for years to come. When planning your tea, make the food, beverage and decor fit the age group. For elementary students, keep it easy, light and colorful. Bright plates and napkins, sturdier china and simple food will allow for a comfortable environment to those who have not attended a similar event. Keep explanations of etiquette and tea education brief and visual. Serve fruity, flavorful teas, with the temperature not too hot. It is also a good idea to have a cold drink like lemonade for picky partygoers. For more mature students, set a refined table and allow them to explore their young adult status. While you can still host a casual afternoon tea, teens will appreciate being treated like the adults they are in their minds. Hot tea with sugar, cream and lemon should be offered, along with an explanation of your own personal tea experiences. Remind them that tea is not only healthy, but offers a great way to
unwind and de-stress when tests and teachers become a burden. No matter what age group you host, some aspects of your tea party will remain the same. Flowers are always a welcome addition to any table. They don’t have to be formal; snipping a few blooms from the yard will suffice. A simple craft for younger children can be a nice touch, as well as having older children share their hopes and goals of the new school year. Sending home a small favor like a teacup or bag of tea will encourage them to continue their own tea tradition. Once the party is over and the kids are back in school, be sure to bring out your own favorite tea and china cup and reflect on a job well done and a memory well made. Have a tea-riffic day!
Pam Barnett was an English major in college and a teacher before opening Englund’s Bistro and Tea Room. Email her at Pammbarnett@aol.com
Aug. 30 deadline approaches for CBCA’s Oktoberfest T-shirt design contest Ever look at a t-shirt and think “I could design something better than that?” Well, here’s your chance to make tshirt history. The CBCA wants your design for this year’s Oktoberfest t-shirts. The annual event celebrates music, polka,
fine food, wine and above all – beer. This year’s Oktoberfest is Sept. 27 and 28. The winning design will appear on the front of the souvenir t-shirts sold to the public. Kids or adults can participate. You may use up to five colors in your design.
Submit your design on 8 ½” x 11” paper to the CBCA office, 6200 Center Street, Suite 210, upstairs in the Village Oaks building. Deadline for entries is August 30. For more information call the CBCA office at 672-2272 or email proamerican@ earthlink.net with questions.
- WE
PREPARE THE DOCUMENTS.
Divorce . . . . . . . . . . . . .$399 Living Trust . . . . . . . . . .$499 Incorporation . . . . . . . .$399 Probate . . . . . . . .(call for pricing)
MEMBERS OF THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, CONCORD COUNCIL 6038: Sylvia Hamblin; Jay Dabling; Gina Miller; Bro. Claire Tryon, Youth Director; Bro. Knight George Pohley III; Laura Hillebrandt and Keiko Arimitsu.
Consider having a back to school tea
Let Sweet Beginnings Adoption Services help you with your adoption journey www.sweetbeginningsadoptions.com
We offer more than 100 services to meet your needs! LDA#68 We are not attorneys and cannot offer legal advice
Advertise with the Pioneer 672-0500
Olivia Moore-Wraa, owner, Clayton resident New n tio Loca
4474 Treat Blvd., Concord (925) 246-0370 8395 A Brentwood Blvd., Brentwood (925) 513-2106 www.wethepeopleconcord.com
We are the original painters of all the homes in Windmill Canyon. Your
Proudly serving the greater Bay Area for more than 82 years!
is your greatest Protect it with
home
investment.
quality painting
by the professionals at
S&K Nellis Painting,
Inc.
(925) 687.2233 www.sknellis.com 30-year Clayton residents
License: 150361
Customer Appreciation Sale Floor Models up to
50% OFF
Everything must go!
Flat Panel TV Entertainment Unit
Limited time offer
$499
3 pc Sectional, 2 colors to choose from $1,199 Wing back chair w/ottoman
Limited Quantities
$299
MATTRESS SPECIAL Now Double-sided pillow top Now Twin Set . . . . . .$ 399 – $249 Queen Set . . . . .$ 579 – $399 Full Set . . . . . . .$ 469 – $299 King Set . . . . . .$ 699 – $499 Double-sided pillow top
We also carry Sealy Mattresses
Financing available:
6 months same as
cash
Clayton Furniture,
Inc.
Authorized Ashley Dealer O ur company is built on Service Integrity
Value
3400 Clay ton Rd., Concord 686-2299 clay ton.furniture@sbcglobal.net
Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
La Veranda Café
August 8, 2008
You can cut the mustard!
(925) 524-0011 6201 Center St. Clayton
Wine Makers Dinner Monday, Aug. 25, 6 p.m. Featuring 585 Wine Partners, Steelhead Winery & organic wines. $50 per person
Concert Nights Saturday Happy Hours
4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Special
To-Go menu for your concert picnic
$5 well drinks $5 appetizers
UTOPIC GARDENS
Drought Resistant - Beautiful
925.524.0055 DESIGN & INSTALLATION
This time of year, mustard sales soar as hot dogs and hamburgers dominate summer meals. Most American tables hold French’s or Ploughman’s mustards. As a result, we overlook how easy (and tasty) homemade mustard can be. Mustard is a member of the cabbage family of plants and is mostly used for its tiny round edible seeds. Mustard greens are a favorite dish in the Southern U.S. and mustard sprouts are widely seen in Irish markets as a salad ingredient. References to the lowly mustard plant and its seed span eons of time and cultures. They are mentioned in the religious texts of Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Bahai, Judaism and Hinduism. Shakespeare, Dumas, Hans Christian Anderson and even John Lennon mentioned mustard in their writings. Originally a medicinal plant, mustard was recommended by the Greek scientist Pythagoras as a remedy for scorpion stings, and Hippocrates used it in medicines and poultices. Mustard “plasters” were used to treat toothaches and a number of other ailments. The Romans may have been among the first to grind mustard seed and mix them with
wine into a paste similar to today’s prepared mustards. They introduced the sauce to Gaul, or
ancient France, where monasteries soon captured the prepared mustard market. Dijon mustard was developed in the 1800’s. The now famous mustard is the product of blending ground mustard with must—the unfermented juice of wine grapes. The flavor in mustard seeds is actually found in the oil. Once ground and the oil is exposed to oxygen, the flavor of mustard dissipates rapidly. The founder of Colman’s Mustard of England perfected the technique of grinding mustard seeds into a fine powder without the searing spiciness some seeds can create. While you might think
California or India are the largest world producers of mustard seed, you’d be wrong. It’s Canada! Mustard seed can be used in pickling. Brown mustard seeds are an important ingredient in Indian dishes. Ground yellow seeds can be mixed with water, beer, verjus, and other liquids to form a paste. My Idaho cousin has been experimenting with prepared mustards over the past several years and shared these recipes with me. Try them sometime and let me know what you think. GERMAN WHOLE-GRAIN MUSTARD 1/3 c yellow mustard seeds 1/3 c brown mustard seeds ¼ c cider vinegar ¼ c dark ale 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tsp salt 2 tsp sugar 2 tsp ground allspice 1/3 tsp turmeric In a non-reactive pan or bowl, combine mustard seeds, vinegar, ale, garlic and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and soak for 48 hours, adding vinegar and ale (in equal proportion) if needed to maintain enough liquid to cover the seeds. Scrape the soaked seeds into
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
Continued from July 11, 2008 -By Kevin Roberts
Myth No. 2 – A negative item that is successfully removed from your credit report will simply reappear again. The reality is that a creditor has 30 days to verify a dispute. If the credit bureau has not heard from the creditor within that time frame, they must delete the item from your report. Sometimes the bureaus will perform a soft delete. This is where they delete the item from your report but, will reinsert the item if they hear from the creditor within a week or two of the 30 days. If this happens, the item can be disputed again. However, most of the time, once an item is deleted, it is gone for good. By using our preferred attorneys, you can be sure your item will be disputed over and over again until it is removed. We have experienced a 96 percent success rate with this. Myth No. 3 – Bankruptcies, foreclosures and tax liens can never be taken off your credit report. Approached correctly, any negative listing can be removed. That is why it is best to work with a professional. They have the experience and know how to remove these items. To get the rest of the article, contact Kevin Roberts, president of Classic Mortgage Company. He specializes in helping release his clients from the “credit prison” that too many people find themselves in. When you or one of your friends finds yourself needing real answers and real solutions to credit issues, you can confidentially contact him at 925-932-3157 or LoanGuy@Ymail.com. You can also get more information at www.DebtTaser.com.
Mayor, from page 1 givers were in agreement: I should run again. I am sure there are people out there who don’t think I should run again, but none of them have expressed their opinion on this matter. What comes to mind when I think about not taking out papers for re-election? Well, I have been on the City Council since 1986. That was in the last century! I have been involved with Clayton for almost 30 years in a wide variety of civic activities. I have been in Clayton for the 4th of July every year since 1980. I have been representing the voters on the Clayton City Council long enough; someone else should have an opportunity. I want to do other things which do not tie me down to a fixed schedule. I need to go to the East Coast for what could be an extended period of time. This would mean missing meetings and not fully representing those who elected me. A generational change is occurring. These are a few of the issues
Save gas: we deliver floor samples to you!
Quality. Our dedicated installation team sets us apart from our competitors. We take pride in our work and care for your home as if it were our own.
Experience. We have been serving the flooring needs of the Diablo Valley for more than 40 years.
I contemplate when I consider not running. On the “run for re-election” side of the ledger, I worry if enough qualified people will show an interest in the position and take out the required nomination papers. Then there are the years of my service on the council. Those years have given me experience in the position. I know the elected representatives involved in the other cities of the county and the county supervisors who can all influence policy and the direction of the county and its impact on Clayton. I know the history of what the city has done in the past and the day-to-day issues facing the city now and possibly in the future. I am the chair of the governing board of the East County Habitat Conservancy and next month will become the chair of the County Connection board of directors. I enjoy the work of the City Council and believe I make a worthwhile contribution to the
CALIFORNIA MUSTARD ¼ c yellow mustard seeds 1 c cider vinegar 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 c oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped 1 Tbsp dried basil, crumbles 1 tsp dried cilantro, crumbled 2 tsp salt In a non-reactive pan or bowl, combine mustard seeds, vinegar, and garlic. Cover and soak for 48 hours, adding vinegar if needed to maintain enough liquid to cover the seeds. Scrape the soaked seeds into a food processor and add the
See Food, page 11
Integrity. Our primary source of new business has
Schedule of Summer Events. 8/8
If you cannot attend, we are happy to get books signed for you.
8/12 7 pm 8/14 7 pm
Girls Club . . . . .Robert D. San Souci children's event . . . . .Molly Dwyer, Requiem for the Author of Frankenstein . . . . .Kathryn Reiss suspense writing workshop for middle grade and YA readers Charles Adams, Murder by the Bay: Historical Homicide in and around the City of SF
Value. Our national buying power and local
8/16 2 pm . . . . .Deb
warehousing enables us to be very competitive. Exceeding customer expectations is our goal with each floor we install.
8/17 8/18 8/23 9/4
Mon - Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5 Sun 12-3
9/19
Grabien, Rock & Roll Never Forgets 2-4 pm . . . .Local Author Extravaganza 7 pm . . . . .Author tea at La Veranda with Meg Clayton, The Wednesday Sisters 6 pm . . . . .NY Yankee's Hall of Famer Jerry Coleman, An American Journey 7 pm . . . . .Wona Miniati, Cooking with all Things Trader Joe's midnight . .Midnight book release party, Release event for Brisingr, book #3 of the Eragon/Inheritance series by Christopher Paolini
Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
Danville (925) 820-8700 Owned by Keith and Mike Baker, 30 year Clayton residents
As always, you can e-mail me at claytonmayor2008@comcast.net.
7 pm . . . . .American
8/11 4 pm
always been referrals from happy customers.
have served the city well. In my opinion, the current slate of those who have taken out nomination papers is up to the task. Some are more qualified than others. The candidates need to convince the voters of their talents for the position. As this issue went to press, eight people have pulled nomination papers for three positions. Of the eight, only incumbent Julie Pierce is a woman. However, it does not matter how many pull nomination papers – only how many return them. I believe by the time this article appears on Aug. 8, more people will have pulled papers. That is the last day I can return nominating papers. On Aug. 8, I will be at my daughter’s wedding. That date will mark a life-changing event for her and a watershed event for me. After contemplating the reasons pro and con for running, some of which I have noted above, I have decided I will not be among those who seek election to the Clayton City Council in November 2008.
MEET THE AUTHORS AT CLAYTON BOOKS
8/13 4 pm
city. As I write this, I am in Long Beach. Yesterday, I came back from Santa Catalina Island, which is another world. The trip over to the island and Catalina itself provide a different perspective of the world. To some degree, it is an isolated place apart from the “real” world. That is not what I want Clayton to become. Since I first ran for the City Council, Clayton has grown in many ways. It has changed – but in a good way. The city will continue to grow and meet the challenges I know the future holds. There are a number of issues those in elected positions face. How they deal with those issues determines how they will be remembered. Elected representatives are mistaken if they believe they are the only ones who can do the job. That is the first step toward failure. My greatest concern has always been the people who choose to run. Are they up to the task? I have not always felt they were. I have great confidence in the voters. Their choices in the past, for the most part,
THOUGHT
a food processor and add the salt, sugar, allspice and tumeric. Process until the mustard turns into a coarse-grained but creamy mixture. (This could take several minutes, so be patient.) Add additional vinegar and ale (in equal proportion) as needed to create a creamy mustard (it will thicken while standing). Allowing the mustard to age in covered glass jars will let the flavors to fully develop.
LIC. NO. 898331 Fully Insured - Clayton Resident
Myths The Credit Bureaus Want You To Believe
FOR
99 Railroad Ave., Danville www.diablo.floorstogo.com
In the Clayton Station joelharris@aol.com
www.claytonbookshop.com
5433 D Clayton Rd., Clayton (925) 673-3325
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
How long should parents wait before starting the college planning process? ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer
So you play football with a guy for a few years, then lose contact, only to run into each other again years later, after college. Some might call that fate. For Sean Connors and Alexis Alekna it was fortuitous.
scholarship. He went to junior college and started saving for college, getting into University of North Carolina, Greensboro on a basketball scholarship. The problem was that the scholarship paid $1500 a year compared to the $19,000 year he would need. “And so I left college with $50,000 in debt in my
André Gensburger/Clayton Pioneer
ALEXIS ALEKNA AND SEAN CONNORS provide free community workshops for parents to better understand the college planning process
“We both have different stories about how we got here, Sean said from their office in Walnut Creek. The problem both had encountered was that while they managed to attend college, the methods they took, and the costs involved, could have been handled differently. “If I had known then what I know now…” Alexis said, explaining how the money his grandmother had left behind upon her death should have been his father’s retirement. His father, about to retire as a doctor with Kaiser Permanente, had to sell some of the stocks to pay for Alexis’ college. “He had great investments,” Alexis added, “and this was right before the BOOM, between 1997 and 2001.” It cost approximately $120,000 for Alexis to complete St. Mary’s College. “I had no scholarship,” he said. And that is part of the difference the duo point out between getting to college now, as opposed to years past. “The requirements are so much higher now,” said Sean. “You can’t get into the state system with less than a 3.89 GPA.” Sean had dreams of becoming a football player or coach after leaving Clayton Valley High School, but could not get a
name. My parents also had debt in their name. I learned a lot about financial aid.” That was where the “a-ha” moment came for Sean. While coaching and counseling students at Clayton Valley and Concord High School and working with real estate finances he found himself spending a lot of time explaining the financial aid process to students who had no idea of the choices, options or procedures for getting into college. “You can’t blame the schools,” Sean said, “The counselors are swamped. The ratio of students to counselors in California is 166 students to one counselor.” Sean approached Alexis with the idea of forming their own company devoted to educating and pairing students and parents with college admissions in order to save them the frustrations and financial costs that they had encountered. “I immediately thought it was a good idea,” Alexis said. Their companies, College Planning Specialists, CFS Inc. & Game Plan Connection (collegiate recruiting for high school athletes), focus on getting parents and students to prepare for college in advance in order to
maximize the opportunities for both acceptance, as well as the best financial options. “If you have not been saving, you should be starting by the sophomore year in high school at the latest,” Sean said. “One counselor I know says you should really be starting much earlier, even as early as eighth grade in order to get a plan in place.” “It’s not even a matter of getting the best interest rate,” he said. “It’s getting any money at all. Parents need to know that college can still be attainable, first by learning the strategies to obtaining as much free money as possible and second where to borrow the rest at an affordable rate.” Through a series of free community workshops, Sean and Alexis hope to bring their message to parents and students. “We are not pushy people,” Alexis said. “We wanted a forum for parents and students to get answers to their questions and get a better understanding of the process so they can see what the next step is.” “Parents tell me ‘I knew this was going to be a problem - I didn’t want to have to deal with it. Now I have to deal with it,’” Sean said. “And I ask them ‘How long are you going to wait to start the college planning process?’” To help start the process, the two have a comprehensive Web site with information on the free community workshops, FAQs, testimonials and more. You can reserve your seats for the workshops online. Alexis has additional motivation. Being newly married, with future family plans, he knows the benefit of advance planning. “I’m already thinking about how I’m going to pay for school,” he said. “My friends who have just had babies ask me all the time. Let’s see, if you put aside $600 a month at 8 percent interest, you would have a future value of about $288,000.” “When they get to college, projecting ahead,” Sean added, “that would be enough money for four years at a public institution only. It makes you stop and think, doesn’t it?” For more information visit their Web sites at www.collegefundsnow.com and www.gameplansnow.com
Page 11
Large, custom updated 5 bedroom! This 2,844 square foot 2-story home has new carpets, pergo and paint, a granite kitchen w/custom cherry cabinets and new microwave, a step-down huge family room with vaulted beam ceiling, wet-bar, fireplace and 2 sliders to yard & patios! 4 bedrooms plus a 5th or Den, 3 full baths, indoor laundry room, mirrored closets, two balconies and a tile roof! Secluded court setting in nearby Concord, parklike yards, a view of Mt. Diablo.
D
CE
DU
RE ICE
PR
00
,0 09
$6
Now is the time to buy. Just call PETE LAURENCE to see this property and others. KNOWLEDGE
SERVICE
INTEGRITY
RESULTS
Pete Laurence,
Broker, Realtor, GRI 2950 Buskirk Avenue, Ste. 140, Walnut Creek Direct 940-2777 Cell 890-6004 Fax 937-0150
Pool packages start at $31,900
One Month FREE Pool Service upon completion of new pool (Limited time offer, Call for details)
Financing Available Lic. #373538
ays d 45 as e l itt sl a in ion t e l mp Co
Summer is coming. Call today:
676-1545 majesticpool@aol.com
Attention parents of college bound high school students! College Planning Specialists, CFS Inc., the Bay Area’s leading and most trusted college funding organization, will be at the Clayton Community Library to help the parents of college bound students not stress-out by the nightmare of college costs.
At this Amazing Workshop, Sean & Alexis will show you…
The single biggest mistake 9 out of 10 parents make when planning for college
4 things you must know before your child starts applying to colleges
How to double or even triple your chances of getting aid by starting to plan in your child’s Fresh, Soph, or Jr year of high school
The 5 little known secrets to pay for college even if you don’t qualify for financial aid
Next workshop date Thurs. Aug. 28, 7:15 p.m. Clayton Community Library
Food, from page 10 remaining ingredients. Process until the mustard turns from liquid and seeds to a creamy mixture with a few intact seeds. The tomato bits will eventually puree into a homogeneous mixture. (This process should take 4-5 minutes.) Add additional vinegar to get a creamy condiment. While this mustard can be eaten immediately, it is better if it ages for a week or two before use. ASIAN-INSPIRED MUSTARD 2/3 c yellow mustard seeds ½ c brown mustard seeds
1 ½ c rice vinegar ½ c water 3 cloves garlic, minced ¼ c sesame seeds, toasted 3 Tbsp freshly grated ginger 1 Tbsp sesame oil 2 tsp salt 1 tsp sugar In a non-reactive pan or bowl, combine mustard seeds, vinegar, water and garlic. Cover and soak for 48 hours, adding vinegar and water (in same proportion) if needed to maintain enough liquid to cover the
We have the perfect
seeds. Scrape the soaked seeds into a food processor and add the remaining ingredients. Process until the mustard turns from liquid and seeds to a creamy mixture with a few intact seeds. Add additional vinegar and water (in same proportion) to get a creamy condiment. This mustard benefits from 2 to 3 weeks of aging. Linda Wyner, a local attorney and foodie, owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com
flowers
RSVP Today at 888-210-2606 Sean Connors Alexis Alekna (925) 627-3570
www.CollegeFundsNow.com
Outdoor landscape design starting at $975 Landscape, hardscape, drainage, irrigation, materials lists
and centerpieces for your weddings, summer parties and special occasions 5354 Clayton Road Place online orders at www.sonsetflowers.com
toll free 800-603-ROSE (7673)
phone (925) 685-8200 fax (925) 685-0633
Open Mon. - Fri. 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Sat. 9 am - 4 pm
wire service specialists major credit cards honored
Contact us at: (925) 672-4968
Designdynamics@aol.com
Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
Clayton Sports Local teens brave icy waters for Sharkfest RANDY ROWLAND Clayton Pioneer
AND
BRENDAN SULLIVAN (RIGHT) approach Alcatraz Island and the start of the Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim on June 28.
Each issue, a panel of Clayton sports enthusiasts will air their views on a current topic in the sporting world. If you would like to suggest a topic or question to our panels, email sports@claytonpioneer.com.
How will the US Women’s soccer team fare at the Olympics?
The US Women’s National soccer team is preparing for another run at an Olympic Gold medal. What do you think of their chances? Can they pull together after their World Cup heartbreak in China a year ago?
Sweden, Norway and the always inspirational play of Brazil and China make this a tough year. Newcomers such as Nigeria can also make it tough on the US. Over the last year few years, the US women have faced additional distractions through the coaching revolving door and some of the internal conflicts due to decisions such as Hope Solo’s replacement and subsequent outburst during the 2007 World Cup. The pressure will be on this year’s team, but they again are the favorite and should win it if they stay aggressive and focused.
STELZNER: I think the world has caught up to US women’s soccer, since their glorious run in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Germany,
MERRIGAN: I certainly hope so! The last time the women’s team was in the Olympics put women’s soccer on the map so to speak. It gave female soc-
us er to m o t a cus ta Refer d you ge icate f an i t r e gift c ouse in $100 resi’s Chophwe get o to M ton when l C ay the job.
Nothing says high-end like natural stone For countertops, bar and vanity tops, bath and shower enclosures and fireplaces
Rob Helena
Leigh Kirmsse
cer players role models to look up to and something to aspire toward. Maybe they could one day be in the Olympics. I think the US Women’s team has a good chance of capturing the gold this year. There is a lot of talent on the team .There is also a lot of great competition, so I’m looking forward to watching some good matches. HELENA: It was going to be tough to win gold even before the injury to Abby Wambach, arguably the best woman striker in the world. Leading up to the Olympics, I’m still dumbfounded as to why their new coach would infuse a new Swedish playing style to the world’s most successful program. Didn’t we handle Sweden with our US home grown style? Also, there are at least five other countries that can win the gold medal. Too many changes, more competition, and now losing Wambach, the player that the US
Deanna Merrigan
Tina Rafallo
team has spent four years building around, could just be the “final nail in the coffin” to their already challenging medal chances. KIRMSSE: Two words: Abby Wambach, Abby Wambach. Her injury in a recent match with Brazil is devastating to the team. She is a critical player, and the team was in for a tough fight as it is. Will the team’s new coach make the difference? Maybe. She certainly has inspired their play as of late. The team is moving to a more creative style of play, and seems to be gelling so it is possible that they could survive the loss of their star forward. It will take guts and determination by every player on the roster, but it is their gold medal to lose. In reality, I am not sure I can offer an objective opinion, because I want them to succeed so badly. So I will stick with them - and believe they will bring home the gold.
NOT A CASUAL RACE The Alcatraz Sharkfest is a challenge that only one Alcatraz prisoner, John Paul Scott, was ever known to have successfully completed. He was found the morning after his escape on the rocks near Fort Point, suffering from shock and hypothermia. He was treated at the Presidio Army hospital before being returned to the prison. The race is not recommended for the casual or novice swimmer but only for those who can swim a mile in a pool
See Sharkfest, page 14
Chris Snyder
Ralph Stelzner
SNYDER: Norway will be tough in the first round, but then the women face Japan and New Zealand and should walk into the medal rounds. With the women’s program we have developed over the past few years, they should be the favorites, but the internal problems in Brazil at the World Cup set them back. Nothing less than the gold for our women, and expect the USA to come in the top two of total medal count by the end of the games. RAFALLO: I think because of the heartbreak they experienced a year ago, they will do very well. They will be using that as motivation and ever since losing to Brazil, they have focused their training and their energy on the Olympics. With a new coach and a new system, and the direction of the team, I think they will have a strong showing. Unfortunately I don’t know much about the teams they are playing, but I like our chances.
We are THE area experts in the fabrication and installation of natural stone Owned and operated by Clayton residents, Rick Fox and Steve Neal
335-9801 3795 Pacheco Blvd. Martinez
www.straightlineimports.com Full service remodeling Specializing in kitchen & baths
Lic. #789325
Photo courtesy of Laura Rogers
COLTON ROGERS (LEFT)
It could have been mistaken for a scene from “Escape from Alcatraz II,” as 900 swimmers plunged into the icy water from boats just off the shore of the famed prison and swam the 1.5 miles to Aquatic Park in San Francisco. The swimmers were participating in the 16th annual Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim on June 21. In the mix were Brendan Sullivan of Clayton, a junior at De La Salle High School, and Colton Rogers, a junior at Clayton Valley High School. They have been longtime friends and are now friendly rivals in the pool. Sullivan has been swimming for many years and has been on the Dana Hills Team for most of them. He also plays water polo and swims at De La Salle, competing in the 50, 100, 200 and 500 freestyle. He is the goalkeeper on the water polo team. Likewise, Rogers swims and plays water polo at Clayton Valley. He swims competitively with the nationally renowned Concord Terrapins swim club for US swimming. In his first two seasons of swimming at
CV, Rogers qualified for the NCS Championships in the 200 and 500 meter freestyle events. Sullivan had visited Alcatraz on many occasions but was not aware this event existed until his last visit to the prison, during a Boy Scout sleepover on the island. “I watched the beginning of a triathlon where the swimmers started on Alcatraz, and I thought that would be great to do,” he said. He recruited his friend, who had never even visited the island, and they signed up for the competition online in October.
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
Clayton Sports
Clayton resident, Mike Rose, has been in business for over 35 years and has always provided quality repair with excellent customer service!
Diablo FC teams dominate home tournament RANDY ROWLAND Clayton Pioneer
It was home cookin’ for the Diablo Futbol Club’s Class I U11-U14 boys and girls teams the weekend of July 26 and 27,
as a local team reached the championship game in the sixth annual Diablo FC Summer Classic. In an unprecedented showing in Northern California tournament history, a team in every almost every age group
went undefeated in reaching the finals against clubs from all over the Northern California territory. It was a dominating weekend, and set the tone for what could be a very successful inaugural season for Diablo FC,
DIABLO FC SHOCKWAVE U12 GIRLS, champions of the 6th Annual Diablo FC Summer Classic following the final game. Back Row: l-r: Julia Hair, Rachel Cooperman, Kendall Marsh, Ashley Scanell, Taryn Niederberger and Coach Miguel Gonzalez. Middle row l-r: Alexandra Gonzalez, Sancianna Silveira, Kelsey Randall, Sophia Rumpf, Marianna Perez, Dominike Tambazidis and Rachel Lenfranchi. Front row l-r Jessica Viera-Ramirez and Chelsey Realini.
Sports Shorts The Bears Softball Association will hold tryouts for the fall season Fast Pitch travel “A” softball league on the following dates and times on the Varsity field at Clayton Valley High School at 1101 Alberta Way in Concord. Sat. and Sun. Aug, 1617. U16 and 18 Gold: 9 a.m.- noon; U12 and U14 Gold: 1 – 4 p.m. Tryouts are for girls 1018. There is no fee to tryout. For additional information, go to www.bearssoftball.com or email bears@bearssoftball.net or call 510-715-4294. Submit your Sports Shorts announcements on our Website at www.claytonpioneer.com or email to sports@claytonpioneer.com
formed by this winter’s merger of Diablo Valley Soccer Club and Mt. Diablo Soccer League.
Mike Rose’s Auto Body Concord, (925) 689-1739
GIRLS TAKE ON TOUGH On the girls side, the U11 Aftershock, playing in their first tournament as an 11 vs.11 team, overcame the absence of four players to reach the championship game at Tesoro fields. The team rebounded from a first game 4-0 defeat to Tracy Velocity to win their next two games, 3-1 against Sacramento United, and 3-0 against local rivals Walnut Creek, and reach the finals in their first tournament. Despite losing once again to Tracy, the girls improved and held their opponent 1-1 at the half before running out of steam. Coach Megan Swann said “We knew this tournament would be difficult missing four key players, but the girls we used from U10 were awesome.” All of the girls played well, but Swann particularly named Janine Bandayrel as a player who really made a difference. “She was not happy about moving to center back,” said Swann, “but she did awesome.” Clayton resident Courtney Sheffield also played an important part in the games. Sheffield,
See Diablo FC, page 15
Clayton baseball fans build memories at Yankee Stadium RANDY ROWLAND Clayton Pioneer
Antioch (925) 778-1330
Concord (925) 686-1739
Walnut Creek (925) 210-1739
Brentwood (925) 634-6366
Pittsburg (925) 432-9910
Walnut Creek (925) 979-1739
Visit our website WWW.MAUTOBODY.COM I Car Gold and ASE certified technicians Approved by most major insurance companies
Reem mood deelliinngg R Deecckkss D Ovveerrhhaannggss O Wiinnd doow wss//D Doooorrss W wnn M Moolld diinngg CCrroow diinngg SSiid m TTrriim
free free estimates estimates
Declan Woods 925.216.2679 Specializing in Bathrooms and Kitchens
Noel O’ Meara 925.518.0821
Recommended by “Realtor of the Year” Lynne French
Clayton Resident
General Contractor license# 783799, B, HIC
Clayton Valley Bowl
The famed “House that Ruth Built” in the Bronx back in 1923 is closing its doors for new digs next door after 85 years of New York Yankees baseball. But not before the Detmers of Clayton made a pilgrimage to the Mecca of baseball on July 19. The Detmers, avid Oakland A’s fans, have long dreamed of visiting the ballpark that played home to 26 world championship teams. “We are huge baseball fans, and it was one of the parks we had to visit,” said Rod Detmer. “Because they are building the new one, we knew we had to make it there this year.” The ghosts of legends such as Ruth, DiMaggio and Mantle are said to be mystically present throughout the great ballpark, and their presence is felt by those who walk through its turnstiles. Besides being the home of
Open lanes all summer long Come and bowl in air conditioned comfort.
Nifty $1.50 Nights for everyone $1.50 games, Mon. thru Thu. 9pm to midnight
Freaky Funday on Sundays 5pm to midnight - $5 cover charge gets you $1-games, shoes, hotdogs, sodas and small beers. Photo courtesy of the Detmer Family
THE DETMER FAMILY, JOEY, VEEVE, AUDREY AND ROD, on their July 19 visit to Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York.
the most successful and envied franchise in Major League baseball, Yankee Stadium has also hosted papal visits, NFL games, the 9/11 gathering, concerts, and boxing events involving Joe Frazier, Muhammad Ali and Joe Louis. Of course, it was the scene of Lou Gehrig’s speech, “I am the Luckiest Man Alive,” memorialized in the movie
DISCOVER THE FAMILY COUNTRY CLUB, RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER, RIGHT AROUND YOUR LIFESTYLE, AND RIGHT AROUND YOUR BUDGET. Now there's a place where you can spend more time with your family. Where you'll enjoy relaxing and playing together. All at a price that makes sense. At Oakhurst Country Club, you'll find fun activities for every member of your family whether you're playing together or doing your own thing. You can enjoy 18 holes of golf and active men's, ladies' and junior golf programs. Or swim, play tennis, work out in our fitness center or take part in our many social and holiday events.
“Pride of the Yankees.” Detmer visited the park with his wife Veeve, son Joey and daughter Audrey, all big-time baseball fans. They selected an A’s game to cheer on their heroes. Amongst the 54,000-plus Yankee diehards, the Detmers
rG ital Thunde low Bowling g i D 5 BIG DVD SCREENS Digital Thunder PLUS on the last 12 lanes FRI 4 pm - 6 pm (kids), 10 pm - 1 am, Sat 10 pm - 1 am
925.689.4631 visit: claytonvalleybowl.com
Clayton Valley Bowl 5300 Clayton Road Concord, CA
See Stadium, page 15
Gas prices got you down? Don’t STRESS about extra travel this summer
Take a “staycation” on us! At Mavericks Sports Club it’s easy to relax, relieve some stress, and stay in the neighborhood!
Come out and see for yourself why Oakhurst is the family country club. You'll be surprised just how affordable a country club can be, and how much closer your family will become.
Get a complimentary month of membership AND two complimentary sessions with a Personal Trainer when you sign up.
NEW MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY
Weekday Golf Membership Join as a weekday Golf Member for only $3,000* *Prices and offer subject to change and may be revoked at any time without notice. Memberships are limited and subject to availability.
Heather Turner, Director of Sales, 925.672.9737
Pleasanton (925) 600-1739
Seven other locations
COMPETITION
www.oakhurstcc.com
Childcare Open 8am – 8 pm
The Espa girls are ready to make sure you are looking you best this summer, please visit their spa on the 2nd floor of Mavericks (Open to the public and members get a discount)
MAVERICKS SPORTS CLUB 5294 Clayton Rd. Concord, Ca 94521 925-602-5600 phone 925-798-2666 fax
Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Clayton Sports
Save over 40% off your next 3 hours of labor. Save big on computer repair bills by purchasing a block of Prepaid Minutes from CUSA. Use your minutes anytime for any repair, support, virus & malware removal or computer upgrade. Use it for shop time, onsite time, remote repair time, anytime you want they don't expire. Better than a warranty because Prepaid Minutes covers ANY repair, 180 Prepaid Minutes $187.97 a $420.00 value Call today, come in or visit our web site
www.shopcusa.com 1520C Kirker Pass Road Clayton, CA 94517 925-672-9989 Clayton Station/Safeway Locally Owned & Operated ComputersUSA! Serving Since 1995
CUSA's Services: Computer Repairs, Upgrades, patches, data recovery, virus removal & protection, wireless network troubleshooting.
CA BEAR License E-77986 E-81057
There’s no better time to buy or sell a home in Clayton! Coming Soon to the Market! Extraordinary Views & Sunsets from this Unique Vineyard Property in Concord with main home over 2800 sqft, includes production facitilites/wine cellar PLUS separate 800 sqft in-law unit! Call Helen and Stephanie for more details
Dana Hills Beauty - Take another look!
356 Mt. Washington Way – Wonderful
single level 4 bedroom with views!
Asking $649,999
SOLD
195 Mt. Wilson Way –
Wonderful single level 4 bed 2 bath in Dana Hills – Spectacular location near cabana; pool. Don’t Miss.
Wonderful opportunity for lease in Dana Hills. 3 bedr. 2 ba., 1 story home. Over 1,800 sq. feet. $2,500/month includes gardener.
Mark your Calendars!
Dana Hills Garage Sale Saturday, Sept. 20th! Get ready for the best neighborhood sale of the year! Dana Hills Friends and Neighbors – check your mailbox for details coming soon!
homes@helenandstephanie.com
925.932.7375 Helen
August 8, 2008
925.932.7329 Stephanie
Clayton ball players clean up on the sports fields as 2008 season ends ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer
It’s been a grand summer for Clayton ball teams and Clayton players. The Clayton Valley Dodgers won the California District IV AAA division Tournament of Champions, with Jake Linderman pitching for the Dodgers (21-2). Locked in a 1-1 pitching duel vs. North Oakland on June 28 in Concord, Chad Linderman’s team pushed the winning run over in extra innings. The journey didn’t come easy. In the first game of the tournament, catcher Bill Ralston broke his leg rounding third in the victory against Antioch West. For the next two games, the team played with the minimum of nine players on the roster and defeated Albany and South Oakland. ALL-STAR ATTITUDE Meanwhile, the Clayton Valley Little League girls team (the age 11-12 all star softball team) found themselves deeper into the All Star Tournament than any Clayton Valley team (boys or girls) has gone. They got one game away from the championship game in the Divisional/State Championship Series and became one of the last six teams playing in California, with the next stop being the Northern California representative at the
THE CLAYTON VALLEY DODGERS. Back row: Coaches Kyle Coffey and Robert Moody, Manager Chad Linderman. Front row: Jake Linderman, Diego Martinez, Nate Coffey, Robert Moore, Jax Carter, Daniel Ferrell, Adam Moody, Hunter Oddone, Benjamin Robinow, Freddie Hernandez, Bill Ralston.
Western Regional Tournament in Vancouver, Wash., and then the Little League World Series in Oregon. “What makes Little League so special,” says coach Eric Fjielbo, “is that all of the girls who play have to live within the Clayton Valley boundaries and they have to play the regular season to be eligible for the all star team. So to have a complete team with this much talent to go that far is really impressive and does not happen very often.” BIG WIN FOR THE LADYHAWKS Clayton player Rachel Siver helped bring the Concord LadyHawks softball team to the World Series in Carson City,
Sharkfest, from page 12 in less than 40 minutes. The boys did not alter their training routine to prepare for the Alcatraz swim, as they had already been training full time with their swim meets. It’s not uncommon for them to swim 250 laps per day. They train 12 hours a week, or more, yearround. Their biggest challenge was to acclimate to the frigid waters of the Bay. To that end, they began training in the Bay waters by going to Alameda in March and jumping in. They quickly exited the water and that was the only point when the boys seriously contemplated pulling out. “It was a real eye-opener,” said Rogers, “but it ended up giving us an idea of what to expect.” They went to Aquatic Park in San Francisco, the site of the
end of the race, on two occasions. They used these opportunities to get used to swimming with the full wet suit and wetsuit hood. HITTING THE WATER On the morning of the race, the ferries took the swimmers to Alcatraz. Some were repeat or annual trekkers, but for Sullivan and Rogers, it was the beginning of an adrenaline-filled rush. As the boats approached the island, their resolve became stronger, and they were determined to complete this race. The race began with a single mass start following the blast of the ferry horn. Along the way, volunteers in kayaks number in the hundreds. They are prepared to pick up any swimmer who cannot continue or wishes to be removed from the water. The swimmers are given an official yellow swim cap which
Nev., July 12-18. They became the World Series champions, beating out 18 other teams from Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and Northern and Southern California to earn the title. “It was a great end to a successful season for the LadyHawks,” said Mary Siver. Her daughter Rachel was on the team that worked hard starting in January, practicing then playing in 11 NSA, USSSA and ASA tournaments. They brought home four first-place trophies (including the World Series) and three second-place trophies and ended their season with a 43-221 record. Other team players were from Concord, Martinez, Hercules, San Pablo, El Sobrante
and Pinole.
must be worn during the race. They are also equipped with timing chips on their ankles. Rogers recalls the first sensation when he hit the water. “It was hard to breathe for a few seconds,” he said. “But the feeling was, ‘OK, it’s begun. I’m doing it.’ ” He said he never considered not finishing and was determined to follow the boat with the orange buoy that was his guide. Although there are times during the race when the current pulls you, he had a plan to correct it. “I would swim 50 strokes and take a look at the Maritime Building, or a marker, and then looked up, and swam another 50,” he said. Rogers finished the race in a time of 32:03, placing 19th overall and 4th in the 16-19 age group. The winning time was 27:46.
plunge without ever doubting himself and was immediately focused on the task at hand. “There were some shipping lanes where the water temperature dropped, and it was really cold, but my mind was on swimming faster,” he recalled. He was challenged again by a cold swell about 400 yards from Aquatic Park, but Sullivan finished the race strong – 50th overall and 6th in the 16-19 age group. Following the race, the boys reunited and basked in their accomplishment while warming up with hot bowls of clam chowder. They were already making plans for the 2009 edition. “It was a rewarding swim,” Sullivan said. “And I have to say, the attention we get when we wear the swim caps at a race now gives me bragging rights.” “Just to say I did it,” Rogers said, “and I had never even been to Alcatraz before, was what I will remember.”
COLD REALITY Sullivan likewise took the
PONY EAGLES TAKE FIRST In another tourney, the Clayton Valley Pony Eagles defeated Placer Hillman 9-7 in nine innings to win the Carson City 13U Fourth of July Tournament under coach Mike Formoso. The Eagles consist of kids from the Concord/Clayton area. Key hits by Ryan Snyder, Matt Wiswell, Danny Eddleston and Daniel Golden led the Eagles to victory. An outstanding catch by Jeremiah Stielow in right field robbed Placer of a run in the bottom of the 9th. Brady Formoso closed the game out by pitching the last three innings.
Richard A. Littorno Rives & Littorno, Attorneys At Law
Since 1979
Your Local Clayton/Concord Neighborhood Mechanic 30,000-60,000-90,000 Factory Services Bumper to Bumper Repairs Pick Up and Delivery Available
Receive
20% off any repair with mention of this ad
Brian Richmond
1410 Concord Ave., Ste. A1, Concord
“Why pay high prices at the dealerships, when you can get the same professional service for less?” Call me today! (925) 288-0981
Richard A. Littorno, Attorney at Law
“Vacation without plans in place?”
Living Trusts Wills Medi-Cal Transfers Probate & Trust Administration Elder Law Creative Estate & Tax Planning Asset Protection & General Business Advance Healthcare Directives
Clayton Office:
Pittsburg Office:
6160 Center St., Suite D Clayton, CA 94517 Phone: (925) 672-6463 rlittorno@msn.com www.LittornoLaw.com
2211 Railroad Ave. Pittsburg, CA 94565 Phone: (925) 432-4211 Fax: (925) 432-3516
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Do-it-yourself data transfers WILL CLANEY TECH TALK On our Website, we get a lot of inquires about data and file transfers. While there are many good tech companies out there to help you, it is a relatively simple procedure. Here are some tips on how to transfer data from your old computer to the new one. This is a do-it-yourself course. First, determine what data or file transfers you want to complete. I’ll keep it simple and suggest you do not try to transfer programs from one computer to the next as that is a “geekie” thing to do and
usually ends in failure. Computer applications are not designed to transfer. So, let’s keep them out of our discussion. Think of the process as moving fish from one bowl to another. You must handle the data carefully to avoid killing it. The most common data transfer is to move My Documents from one computer to another. Go to your documents folder and determine the size of the folder. The size will help you determine what data transfer method you want to use. For small folders, use a USB flash drive. For larger ones, use an external hard drive device also known as an external backup disk. Here’s how to check the size of the My Documents folder. Click Start. Find My
Diablo FC, from page 13 a defender, said her favorite games were the first and last. “They were really good and we got a lot better from playing them.” Goalkeeper Kaylie Collins added “We played good but we played against a really hard team.” In the U12 division, CYSA State Cup semi finalist Shockwave reached the finals by winning their preliminary round games 1-0 against Delta Explosion, 2-0 against Modesto Ajax, and 2-1 against Union FC of Palo Alto. The Shockwave girls then took on the Mustang Extreme in the finals. In a fast paced exciting contest Shockwave quickly went down a goal before coming back to force overtime in the last few minutes of regulation on a late goal from Kelsey Randall. In the second overtime with penalty kicks looming, Dominique
Tambazidis scored the winner with seconds to go as Shockwave took first place. Assistant Coach Miguel Gonzalez said “The girls are getting more comfortable in their responsibilities. With a new formation, new system, and new coach, plus nine new players, I saw improvement in every game.” For the U13 Diablo FC Storm, it did come down to penalty kicks, and unfortunately this time, they did not go their way, as they lost the finals to North Valley Thunder 2-1 after 90 minutes of play could not unlock the 1-1 tie. The championship game was an emotional one as the teams battled mightily to force overtime and then penalty kicks. In the end their second place finish was a strong showing, and the girls only allowed three goals
Stadium, from page 13 were not afraid to wear their team’s colors and came to the ballpark decked out in the green and gold of the Athletics. They took the subway to the ballpark and said Yankee fans gave them some good-natured ribbing. “The Yankee fans were overall very supportive and very friendly,” said Veeve. “They treated us fairly. They would not be that nice to Red Sox fans.” On their way into the ballpark, some local fans helped them learn the right connections and what stations to use and exit. A guy on the subway befriended them after finding
Clayton
that the Detmers had traveled all the way from California to see a game and the stadium. Upon entering the famed stadium, the Detmers were struck by the history surrounding the place. They found themselves absorbed in taking in the sights and sounds. “It was cool to see a very historical stadium and one that I hadn’t been to before,” Audrey said. Joey said the biggest difference between attending a game at Yankee Stadium and in the Bay Area is the atmosphere. “They have incredible fan sup-
educed Price R
Distinguished 2 Bedroom 2 Bath Single Story Townhouse, on the Golf Course! Walk to Library, Downtown, Park & Schools.
Documents and right click on My Documents. Scroll down to Properties and click it. The My Documents window will open with several “tabs” across the top. Select the tab called General and watch as you compute the size of the folder. If the folder is under 8GB, use a flash device. Plug in the device and wait for Windows to detect it. Open the flash device to display folders, then drag the window to the right of your screen. If you have the window in full screen mode, click the restore down button (double panes upper right of the active window). Create a small window on the desktop. Now open your My Documents file and make the window small enough so you can still see the flash device window that you just created.
You should now have both windows in view on your desktop. Click Edit in the My Documents window, then scroll down to Select All and click it. Move your mouse over any of the selected files, right click and select Copy. Move your mouse to the flash drive window, right click and click on Paste. The files you want to transfer are now moving to the flash drive. Assuming the flash drive has enough space, you’re performing a file and document transfer. That’s a simple copy and paste procedure. If the My Documents folder is larger than 8GB, you need an external hard drive backup device. The procedure is the same as above, except the drive is larger. You can get an 8GB flash
all weekend with two shutouts, while scoring 15 goals. For the U14 Diablo FC girls, coached by Brazilian soccer legend Sissi, the girls did not concede a goal in their first three games, winning by scores of 3-0 against Union FC from Palo Alto, and 2-0 against Diablo FC’s blue squad, before finishing with a 0-0 tie against Extreme after they had already been assured of a spot in the finals. In the championship game rematch with Union FC, Sissi’s team dominated play, but uncharacteristically was unable to finish, and ended up on the short end of a 1-0 defeat to take second place. U13 BOYS WIN IN OVERTIME The boys’ side of the tournament was even more successful for Diablo FC teams. The U11 Diablo FC boys reached the championship game by scoring 15 goals and allowing two, before they fell to Central Marin Arsenal 2-1 in the final.
The U12 Diablo FC boys started with a 2-2 tie, but came back to win their next two games by a combined 11-0 total, before falling 4-3 in the finals against East Diablo United Crew. The U13 Diablo FC boys may have been involved in the most exciting game of the tournament as they beat Mustang Hotspurs 2-1 in overtime for the championship. The game followed 3 straight wins by scores of 10-1, 3-2 and 4-1. Finally the U14 boys also went won their first three games, by scores of 6-0 against Walnut Creek Diablos, 2-1 against Manteca Velocity and 7-0 against River City Boca Juniors. That put the Diablo FC boys in the finals where they defeated cross town rivals Heritage Thunder of Pleasant Hill 3-1. It was a very successful weekend for the Diablo Futbol Club, and a possible glimpse of the balance of power in competitive soccer in the Clayton and Concord area.
port,” said Joey, “and they are very vocal and supportive of their team.” Rod added that they are also critical if they do not feel a player is getting the big hit or making a good play. “They are hard on their players. They will even boo their own players if they are struggling.” The Detmers enjoyed their seats just a few rows back from the visiting dugout courtesy of Rod’s company, which has season tickets. The stadium hosted the 2008 All Star game as part of its final season magic, and tickets this season are even harder to come by than usual. Although the A’s fell short, the family enjoyed the experi-
ence tremendously. They ate Nathan’s hot dogs and peanuts while being close enough to get the attention of the A’s players. Despite their loyalty to the A’s, they couldn’t resist bringing home souvenirs capturing the last season of Yankee Stadium. The visit will leave lingering impressions, such as the narrow walkways and the busts and plaques of the Yankee’s many Hall of Famers. “They have the best game pump-up music and audience participation,” Audrey reported. Besides Yankee Stadium, the Detmers visited Ground Zero, the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park and took in a theater show on Broadway.
drive or an external hard drive from you friendly and knowledgeable local computer dealer or super-giant-big-box-nohelp-here store. The cost is about the same, but the perception of a deal is different. Your choice either works. To move the folders, files and documents back to the new computer is the same procedure as above, except in reverse. Open the My Documents Folder in the new computer and leave space on your desktop for opening the device (either flash or external hard drive) window. Now click Edit on the device folder, select all and paste into the My Documents folder. Simple. But if it’s not so simple for you, either find a local computer dealer or Google for “file transfer.”
Today Hauling
& Unique Gardening Services Serving Contra Costa County Since 1982
Seasonal Planting Tree Pruning & Trimming General Cleanups Sod & Irrigation Retaining Walls Masonry
Save Water – Aerate your lawn today! Weekly/Bi-weekly Yard Care Landscape installations
Free Estimates todayhauling@yahoo.com
497-4907 “For All Your Yard Needs”
Will Claney is the CEO of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-6729989.
complete exterior painting jobs
15% off
(1,600 sq. ft. minimum)
Free estimates Local resident 25 years experience, now working locally Cell (707) 718-5778
Office (925) 687-8498
Ca. State License 590245, Bonded & insured
Local reference: Oakhurst Country Club. We painted the exterior last summer.
Cruise Adventures Unlimited Serving all cruise lines since 1987
Cruise to Alaska July 3, 2009
San Francisco roundtrip on the
Sea Princess
®
Balconies from $2,499* Insides from $1,399* Ports include Ketchikan, Haines, Juneau, Tracy Arm and Victoria, B.C. Book early for best availability *Fares are cruise only, USD, based on double occupancy, capacity controlled and subject to availability. Government fees and taxes additional. Refer to appropriate Princess brochure for terms and conditions. ©2008 Princess Cruises. Ships of Bermudan registry.
Owners Valerie O’Connell (Clayton resident, 28 years) & daughter Colleen O’Connell
(925) 935-7447
CST 2074362-40
1610 Locust St., Walnut Creek
www.cruiseadventuresunliminted.com
LAS LOMAS HIGH SCHOOL
$395,000
Walnut Creek Updated 5 bedroom 3 bath, huge lot, Acalanes High School District. Call for More Info.
Walnut Creek Equestrian Property
$939,000
Coming, Concord, fixer, great neighborhood. Call for info.
Spectacular Walnut Creek equestrian property, fabulous original ranch house with oak hardwood flooring, an oversized living room and formal dining room. Upper level fead educe tures master suite, breakfast room, den, kitchen, Price R living and dining rooms. Lower level offers garage, three bedrooms, laundry room and tons of storage space. This amazing property is zoned for horses or can be sub-divided and developed. Located within walking distance to downtown Walnut Creek and minutes to freeway access, Walnut Creek schools and Acalanes high school district. (In addition, adjacent two lots for sale. Call for separate pricing $989,000 info.) Call for more information and to schedule a private showing.
President’s Award 2007
Fr Reli iendly & able Serv ice
Kimberly Morucci (925) 437-1650 kmorucci@rockcliff.com www.kimmorucci.com
Clayton resident & ranch property owner.
All calls answered
50% Off 1st month of service
10% off Solar Heating
for Clayton Pioneer Readers expires 7/10/08
Weekly/Monthly Maintenance Heaters, Pumps, Filters Automation, Wireless Systems Ozone Sanitation Systems Green Pool Clean-up
Relocation of Equipment Solar Heating Installs & Repair Acid Washing Plumbing, Electrical, Troubleshooting
Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
School News Clayton Valley High School Band students attend leadership camp
ial ec
Su
Professional mmer Super Sp $40 off window all windows in house cleaning Includes all inside, outside and all screens 100% satisfaction Guaranteed
Clayton Resident Licensed & Bonded Owner operated
Coupon may not be combined with any other offer. Valid thru 8/7/08
Mt. Diablo Window Cleaning
549-1235
Preplanning means accommodating your wishes, your budget and your attitudes about death, dying and parting rituals. It means providing an environment where you can make choices based on your own personal values. It means dignity without an astronomical price tag. It means doing things your way, not someone else’s way. Call or write today for your free Neptune Planner.
The weekend of July 11-14, ten Clayton Valley High School band students participated in the United Spirit Association (USA) Camp at the University of California, Santa Cruz in various capacities honing performance skills. Senior, Jennifer Bolen, said, “I learned a lot about motivation. The more excited and motivated people are about something, the more likely they are to put real effort into it. I also learned how to be a good leader without being overly controlling or overly laid back.” Jennifer serves on the Band Council, as well as a band section leader. Four of the students are Band Council members who attended a two-day intensive workshop classes that included effective leadership skills, fund raising, and public speaking. Many band students will be involved in activities this fall, relating to the school’s 50th Anniversary celebration. It was the purpose of this camp to help attendees feel more prepared to take on a leadership role in this special celebration. Both Emily Burkin, Head Drum Major, and Jarvin Bayona, Assistant Drum Major, attended the USA Camp, but their training was targeted to the
MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Beginning Aug. 26, the Mt. Diablo Elementary School will hold its coupon book fundraiser with “You’re Invited” coupons books. These are wonderful books, with only local restaurants, and ad offers. Cost is only $20. Call to reserve your copy. 672-5723 DIABLO VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL DVMS is offering local businesses the opportunity to place an ad in their 2008/09 school directory. Cost varies. Contact Mary Del Monte at 672-5723 if you would like your company, (big or small) to be considered for this year’s printing. This directory goes out to over 600 local families, and is used daily by most.
Photo by Mundy Viar
CLAYTON VALLEY DRUM MAJORS Jarvin Bayona and Emily Burkin.
elements of music leadership. These students were selected by audition to serve in this capacity in the new school year. In addition to musical score reading, the mechanics of conducting, and parade and field band guidance, these students were also introduced to full group leadership, with topics such as effective communication, teaching techniques, and motivating and unifying. “I feel that unity is very important to make this year
work,” expressed Emily. With the 50th Anniversary as a focus theme for us this year, the operations of the band will be a bit modified, which will look and feel different to our returning students. With the changes in mind, Emily said of her USA camp training sessions, “I am more mentally prepared…and am very much ready for this year in every way!” Jarvin added, “We learned about leadership skills, and I
chose special classes (for) practice routines, agenda organizing, and unification skills. I feel those skills will be valuable.” All Clayton Valley band students will meet the week of August 11-15, in preparation for the 9th Grade Orientation the following week and the fall events which start soon after school begins. Families were mailed information earlier in the summer, and all of this information is available on the Clayton Valley band website, www.claytonbands.org.
24 Hours: (925) 944-5100 Since 1973 Over 70,000 members in Northern California
Cremation & Memorial Services 1855 Olympic Blvd., Ste. 110 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 www.neptune-society.com
Church News FD1354
Yes! I’d like to receive a free Neptune Planner. Name: Street: City Signature: NSNC/05
State:
ZIP: Phone:
I give you permission to contact me at the number provided.
(a) ©2005 STEI
CROSSROADS COVENANT CHURCH The Annual Lee Harvell Memorial Classic Car Show will take place at Crossroads Covenant Church, 5353 Concord Blvd., in Concord on
Sat., Aug. 16, from 5:30 p.m. to sunset. The Classic Car Show includes free BBQ, music and a play area for children. Register to show your Classic Car at crossroadschurchweb.org
HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH Bocce Evening, Saturday, August 9 at 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at Newhall Park This is a great opportunity to learn a new activity that is fun for
all ages and abilities. A five minute bocce demonstration will be offered, then teams will be formed, and after a brief practice period, the games will begin. For more information,contact Ray Krause, rkmvpsportscards@aol.com, home-686-3269 or work 687-5710.
Vacation Bible School at Eternal Life Lutheran Church Kind & Loving Care in Home Environment Over 15 Years Experience Quality, Individual attention CPR & First Aid Certified
This year’s theme for Vacation Bible School at Eternal Life Lutheran Church (WELS) was “Soaring High.” Every Wednesday evening over the course of five weeks in July the students took off in an imaginary hot air balloon and traveled to different places across the globe. At all those places they learned about the special characteristics of the region, proof of God’s wonderful creation. The Bible stories were presented like plays and the children could participate and act out a character under the direction of a teacher. What the children learned on their “travels” and from the Bible stories was deepened by a teacher who encouraged the children to answer the questions on activi-
ty worksheets. Christian songs and games were as important as the crafts that followed. The children created pages for their own scrapbook. The pages tell the story of the journeys they experienced and the Bible lessons they heard. Every evening ended with a closing devotion and snacks, which often matched the topic of the lesson for the day. Some cookies looked like hot air balloons and hearts were made from rice crispy and marshmallows. The teachers had as much fun as the children. Vacation Bible School at Eternal Life Lutheran Church was an adventure free of charge. One and a half hours packed with skits, bible stories,
Children at Eternal Life’s vacation Bible school created scrapbooks of their “journeys” to take home.
songs, activities and crafts. Eternal Life Lutheran Church is located at 5554 Clayton Rd., Suite 1B, in Concord (the CC County Farm Bureau building). Eternal Life’s regular Sunday schedule is Sunday School and Bible
Study at 10 a.m., Worship at 11:15 a.m. Eternal Life is a member congregation of the WELS. Please call 524-0295 or visit the Web Site, www.EternalLifeLutheranChurch.or g for information, daily devotions and prayers.
A volatile market raises questions. I can help you find the answers. Market Volatility raises many questions. Are we heading into a recession? Will I be able to refinance my mortgage? Will my retirement plans be impacted? As an Ameriprise financial advisor, I can provide you with solid strategies and tips to help you weather today’s market. Find out why more people come to Ameriprise for financial planning than any other company.* Call (925) 685-4523 today. Mureleen Benton, CFP®, Financial Advisor 5356 Clayton Rd., Suite 211 Concord, CA 94521 (925) 685-4523 Mureleen.M.Benton@ampf.com CA License #0692378 Financial planning services and investments available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC. *Based on the number of financial plans annually disclosed in Form ADV, Part 1A, items available at adviserinfo.sec.gov as of December 31, 2006. © 2008 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
Mention this ad for 25% off
Mon. - Fri. 11 to 7 Sat. 11 to 5
672-3500 5438 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 40, Concord
Now shop Sorelle from home!
www.sorelleboutique.com
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 17
Train dogs early for safe social interactions
TRIVET
states. “In general, puppies can start puppy socialization classes as early as 7-8 weeks of age.” They recommend a minimum of one set of vaccinations at least seven days prior to the first class and a first deworming. Puppies should be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class. Find safe, positive social opportunities with a variety of people and dogs, like classes, car trips and visits to friends. Avoid areas that are frequented by dogs of unknown health, e.g., downtown streets or dog parks. When looking for a class or private training, find one based on positive reinforcement. “Positive and consistent training is associated with fewer behavioral problems and greater obedience than methods that involve punishment and/or encourage human dominance,” according to AVSAB. Group classes offer an opportunity to socialize with strangers and other dogs. Find a reward-based class that allows time for puppy play. Avoid ones that use choke chains, prong or electric collars. Negative experiences now can have a long-lasting effect. The facility should be clean, with proof of vaccination required and a rule that sick dogs stay home. Check the trainer’s certification, education and experience. Observe a current class before you register. Time is of the essence. If possible, enroll before you get your puppy. For the full AVSAB position statement, go to www. avsabonline.org. Take a copy with you to your puppy’s first health check and discuss these important issues with your veterinarian.
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 Web site, www.arf.net, or call (925) 256-1ARF.
Dwyer is a certified pet dog trainer and owner of See Spot Stay. She graduated from the San Francisco SPCA’s Training Academy and is studying at the Ethology Institute in Denmark. She is a 15-year resident of Clayton. You can email her at seespotstay@pacbell.net.
BARBARA DWYER Special to the Pioneer
“Should I fight or play? Lick or bite?” How can a dog know whom to trust? In the first three months, they learn quickly. This critical period for socialization is the time when exploration is fun; fear hasn’t set in yet. Positive social interactions now will teach the pup what is safe for years to come. By 14 weeks, new sights, sounds or smells are dangerous until proven harmless. Isolation in the first 12 weeks can result in under socialization, a leading contributor to future fear and aggression. In 2008, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) posted a position statement to veterinarians on vaccinations and social-
EARLY TRAINING TAUGHT these Dalmatian pups to trust their canine friends. It’s safe to start puppies as young as seven weeks in socialization classes. ization. It said that the “risk of infection (from disease) is relatively small compared to the chance of death from a behavior problem.” In fact, behavior problems
are the No. 1 cause of pet surrender and/or euthanasia. “It should be the standard of care for puppies to receive socialization before they are fully vaccinated,” the society
Tiddly Winks and Trivet are ARF’s Adoption Stars
TIDDLY WINKS Tiddly Winks is a very intelligent dog. She will thrive in an active home where she will receive plenty of physical and mental exercise. She is a natural for dog sports like flyball or agility. The adoption fee for Tiddly Winks is $225 and includes the first seven training courses. Trivet is a beautiful, friendly girl who loves to lounge, but also enjoys hunting for her favorite toys! She enjoys the company of people but would prefer to be the only cat of your household. The adoption fee for Trivet is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 3 to 7 p.m.
Thursday and Friday, Noon to 4:30 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.
Patty Flannery Your local neighborhood REALTOR since 1986 Call me. Let’s talk REAL ESTATE
Office: 925.975.5255 email: granyflany@hotmail.com, home & fax: 925.672.0541
Ken Mitolo CONSTRUCTION BATHROOMS KITCHENS DOORS WINDOWS
FIREPLACES MOLDINGS DECKS LIGHTING
CA Lic. #531028, Est. 1987
(925) 672-2460 Serving the Clayton community for 20 years. Clayton resident All work guaranteed.
Diagnosis, treatment and surgery Dental care Dietary planning Emergency services Boarding and Grooming Office Hours M-F 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. & 2 – 5:30 p.m. Every other Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Dr. Linda M. Miller 5435 Clayton Road, Ste I, Clayton 925-672-CATS (2287) www.cathospitalofclayton.com
Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. AUGUST 13 FOR THE AUGUST 22 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT AUG. 14 Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library Thursdays at 11 a.m. Story time for 3 - 5 year olds. Child may attend without caregiver. Drop in for stories, songs, and fun. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, 673-0659.
THROUGH
THROUGH AUG.18 Summer Reading 2008 @ Clayton Community Library Catch the reading bug at your library and transform reading into exciting prizes. For readers age two through adult and parents and caregivers of love bugs from birth to two years old can participate. To get started or for prize information please contact your community library or visit us online at ccclib.org. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, 673-0659. THROUGH AUG. 19 Patty Cakes @ Clayton Community Library Tuesdays at 11 a.m. Story time for babies - 3 yr olds. Child attends with caregiver. Drop in for stories, songs, and fun. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, 673-0659. THROUGH AUG. 31 Local Voice: Defining Community Through Art, @ Bedford Gallery, Walnut Creek 12 - 5 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday, 6 - 8 p.m. Thursday – Saturday. This exhibition offers an overview of the best and most compelling art, in all media and genres being created by artists living in Contra Costa County. For additional information, visit online at www.bedfordgallery.org or call 295-1417. Bedford Gallery, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. THROUGH OCTOBER Clayton Farmers Market, Downtown Clayton Every Saturday from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Clayton Farmers Market, by Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association. The Clayton Farmers' Market brings the very best of California-grown fruits, vegetables, greens, and nuts to downtown Clayton. Treat right downtown! Diablo Street, Downtown Clayton. AUG. 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 Poison Apple Productions Presents A Three Leaf Clover Looking for an entertaining evening for your entire family? A Three Leaf Clover, written and directed by local award-winning playwright Noelle Arms fits the bill. Experience the story of the O'Connor family on the shore of Ireland. They'll help you to fall in love, question what it means to have faith, and experience the magic that no one else can see. Tickets $15. For information contact Cindy Harris at 510-799-1627, Cindy.Harris@comcast.net. Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, 2951400, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. AUG. 8 Go Buggy in August @ Clayton Community Library 2 p.m. Make bug crafts on Thursday. Best for ages 5-9, please register in advance. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, 673-0659. AUG. 9, 10 Japanese Festival @ Japanese Cultural Center 1 – 9 p.m. on Aug. 9 and 12 – 8 p.m. on Aug. 10. Admission is free and there is free parking available at Ygnacio Valley High School with a free shuttle to the Festival. The festival features Japanese food, bonsai and Japanese flower arrangement exhibits; Judo, Kendo and calligraphy demonstrations; Japanese dance performances and Taiko drum performances by three different Taiko groups. For more information, individuals can email jasummerfestival@yahoo.com or leave a message at 925-682-5299. Japanese Cultural Center, 3165 Treat Boulevard, Concord. AUG. 11 Contra Costa Mineral and Gem Society’s Annual Charity Rock Auction @ Centre Concord 7:30 pm, doors open early. Bargains on rocks, equipment and treasures. Please join us for an evening of rockhound fun! The auction contributes to the Dietrick Scholarship Fund administered through the California Federation of Mineralogical Societies. Robert Dietrick was a geologist and great supporter of CCM&GS. Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Rd., at Clayton Fair Shopping Center. Guests are always welcome! Monthly meetings the second Monday of the month. Information 429-2748, 779-0698, 674-7055. http://home.comcast.net/~contracostamineralandgem/site/ AUG. 18 Diablo Valley Masterworks Chorale Auditions 7 p.m. Contra Costa’s premiere classical chorus will host auditions for Andrew Lloyd Webbers "Requiem" and Waltons "Belshazzars Feast." Chorus meets Mondays at 7 p.m. Experience the exhilaration of singing with a full concert orchestra. For more info, contact us at info@masterworkschorale.net or call 925 228-8690. Website: www.masterworkschorale.net Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Music Dept. room 101, Pleasant Hill. AUG. 18 Clayton Valley High School Athletic Boosters Club Golf Tournament @ Oakhurst Country Club The 17th annual golf tournament is sponsored by Clayton Valley High School and benefits the football and golf programs as well as the Athletic Boosters Special appearance by the Oakland Raiderettes, lunch before teeing off, and fun contests are followed by a dinner / banquet, raffle prize drawing and silent auction. Entry forms and additional information can be found at www.cvhsboosters.org or by contacting the Tournament Chairman, Dave Looney at 925-285-9903 or mtunes@sbcglobal.net.
SEPT. 9 The Art of Retirement @ Loma Vista Adult Center, Concord 7 – 9 p.m. The course is five weeks in length and costs $18 for people 55+. Course topics include how to keep the money you have, health, travel, long-termcare insurance, volunteering vs. working part-time, and more. People of all ages and situations are welcome. For more information on the class, please call instructor George Fulmore at (925) 686-6916. Loma Vista Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Ave., Concord. Call (925) 937-1530 for registration information.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS AUG. 9, 23 Scrabble Club @ Carl's Jr. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Club meets the second and fourth Saturday of the month. All ages and skill levels. Prizes and contests. We have grown from six players to a roster of sixty in a year's time. Just $2 to play for the day. Carl's Jr., 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. AUG. 10 Concord Mystery Book Club @ Concord Library 2:30-4 p.m. All mystery readers are invited to participate and explore a different genre each month. Group meets the second Sunday of the month. Concord Library, 2900 Salvio Street, Concord, 646-5455. AUG. 10, 17, 24, 31 Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting @ Clayton Community Church 7-8 p.m. AA Big Book Study every Sunday night. 673-9060. Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main St., Clayton. AUG. 10 VFW Breakfast @ Concord Veterans Memorial Hall 8 - 11 a.m. Breakfast is held on the second Sunday of each month. The menu includes eggs, pancakes, sausages, coffee, tea and orange juice. $4/adults and $2/children under 12. Concord Veterans Memorial Hall located at 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. AUG. 11, 18, 25 Al-Anon Family Group Mtg. @ St .Bonaventure's Catholic Church 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Meetings are every Monday. If you are concerned about someone else's drinking, Al-Anon Family Groups can help. For further information, please call (925) 274-6770. St.Bonaventure's Catholic Church, 5562 Clayton Rd., Concord, in portable bldg. #1. AUG. 11, 18, 25 Toastmasters Club @ Aegis of Concord 7 p.m. Meetings are held every Monday at Aegis of Concord. Visit to see what Toastmasters do that builds confident communicators and leaders. Membership is open to all adults. Bring a friend. Call Carie at 682-7211 or go to www.toastmasters.org. Aegis of Concord, 4756 Clayton Road, Concord.
AUG. 14, 21, 28 Weights Watchers Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau Building 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Thursdays. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in and meetings. Call 800-326-8450, x 2023. Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. AUG. 14, 21, 28 Contra Costa Chess Club @ Starbucks, Clayton 7:30 - 10:30 p.m. every Thursday. The Contra Costa Chess Club welcomes chess players of all ages and skill levels, and we provide instruction and materials for beginners. We are governed by the USCF Rules of Chess, and it's coffeehouse chess at its best. There is no cost to playing in or joining the club. Contra Costs Chess Club meeting at Starbuck's, 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton. AUG. 19, SEPT. 9, 23 Odd Fellow's Meeting @ Pacheco Lodge #117, Concord 3 p.m. Meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Odd Fellow’s are actively involved in civic and philanthropic efforts on the local and international levels. All are invited to come and be our guest for a meeting and dessert. For information call Herb Meeks at (925) 682-7358. Pacheco Lodge #117, 4349 Cowell Road, Concord. AUG. 19 Diablo Valley Macintosh Users Group (DVMUG) Film Festival @ Rossmoor 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. Our General Meetings are open to the public and free of charge with question and answer help for all things Mac, followed by programs, demonstrations, and fun. We usually meet at Bancroft Elementary School in Walnut Creek, but this month we are hosting our annual film fest at the Peacock Theater in Rossmoor. Contact: Tom, 925689-1155. Details may be found at http://www.dvmug.org. AUG. 21 Veterans of Foreign Wars Meeting @ Concord Veterans Hall 6 p.m., meeting begins at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. All veterans of foreign wars are invited to attend. The VFW is here to support eligible veterans and their families. Wives and daughters of eligible veterans are invited to join the Ladies Auxiliary. Veterans Memorial Hall, corner of Colfax and Willow Pass Road, Concord. AUG. 21, SEPT. 4, 18 Rebekah's @ Mt. Diablo Lodge, Concord. 8 p.m. All are invited to come and be our guest for a meeting and dessert. Rebekahs are actively involved in civic and philanthropic efforts on the local and international levels. Meetings are the first and third Thursday of the month. Come check out our organization. For information call Carmen Frank at 925-672-5045. 4349 Cowell Road, Concord. AUG. 25 Blue Star Moms General Meeting @ Fuddruckers, Concord 6:30 p.m. Please come around 6 p.m. if you would like to eat before the meeting. After March, The Contra Costa Blue Star Moms holds their general business meetings on the 4th Monday of each month at the same time and location. Fuddruckers, 1975 Diamond Blvd, Banquet Room, 2nd floor, Concord.
AUG. 11, 18, 25 Al-Anon Family Group Mtg. @ St. Martin's Church 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Due to construction at St. Bonaventure’s Catholic Church the Al-Anon family group will change location until construction is completed. Meetings are every Monday. If you are concerned about someone else's drinking, Al-Anon Family Groups can help. For further information, please call (925) 274-6770. St. Martin's Church, 5294 Concord Blvd. 0.1 miles off of Kirker Pass Rd. on your left.
AUG. 28 Clayton Business & Community Association @ Oakhurst Country Club 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting the last non-holiday Thursday of the month. This is a great place to meet fellow Claytonites and become involved in some of the ongoing events that CBCA sponsors. Cost of the dinner is $24. RESERVATIONS ARE DUE BY FRIDAY NOON PRIOR, 672-2272. Mike Fossan, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr.
AUG. 12, 19, 26 Kiwanis Club of Walnut Creek 12-1:30 p.m. every Tuesday. All are invited to check us out and be our guest for lunch. Call Sam Totah at 941-1536. Massimo's Ristorante, 1604 Locust St., Walnut Creek.
SEPT. 2 Knights of Columbus @ St. Agnes Church Hall 7:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month. We look forward to seeing our brother Knights at the general membership meeting of the Knights of Columbus Concord Council 6038 of Concord and Clayton. St. Agnes Church, 3478 Chestnut St., Concord.
AUG. 13 NewComers Club @ Il Fornaio, Walnut Creek 1 a.m. The Walnut Creek Area Neighbors and Newcomers Club invites all prospective and present members to a summer coffee at Il Fornaio, 1430 Diablo Blvd. Walnut Creek. Please contact Carolyn Priest, 925-930-0129.
SEPT. 7 Knitting Club @ Concord Library 2-4 p.m. the first Sunday of the month. Have you noticed that knitting is all the rage? Join the group and get creative. 646-5455. Concord Library, 2900 Salvio St.
AUG. 13TH Creekside Artists Guild - General Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 7p.m. Landscape photographer, Tom O'Connor will present his "journey" to Canyon de Chelly in Arizona. Includes a brief video clipping of chanting by his Navajo guide. Come join this unique group of eclectic artists that meet the 2nd Wednesday of each month. S-T-R-E-T-C-H your own artistic boundaries and bring artwork that creatively expresses this months theme, "Journey's". All levels and art forms are welcome! "We provide an environment for all artists to inspire, create, educate and prosper"...Questions? Arlene Kikkawa-Nielsen 673-9777, email: nielsenjanc@aol.com or visit our website: www.creeksideartists.org AUG. 14, 21, 28 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. every Thursday. Meeting includes breakfast and usually features a speaker. Visit www. claytonvalleyrotary.org or call Chuck Graham at 6897640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton.
BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT AUG. 12, 19, 26 County Board of Supervisors @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. Tuesday mornings. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us or 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine St., Room 107, Martinez. AUG. 12, 26 Clayton Planning Commission @ Clayton Community Library 7 p.m. The coommission meets the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. www.ci.clayton.ca.us or 673-7304. Clayton Library Meeting Room, 6125 Clayton Road. AUG. 19 Clayton City Council @ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas posted at City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail. Clayton Community Library Meeting Room, 6125 Clayton Road.
Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc.
6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440 All entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
We repair all major appliances, most major brands, and we’re local 35 years experience Appliancerepairsbybruce.googlepages.com
Aug. 8, 9 . . . . .Crossman Connection Aug. 15, 16 . . . . . . . . . . . .The Relyks
Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer 30 year Clayton residents
Karaoke Every Wednesday Night
Office: (925) 672-2700 Cell: (925) 956-8605
www.claytonclubsaloon.com
State of California B.E.A.R license #A44842
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Movie Review
Soon-to-be stars gather around ‘Dark Knight’ One of the most highly anticipated films of the summer is “The Dark Knight,” sequel to Christopher Nolan’s 2005 “Batman Begins.” This psychological thriller is miles apart from the campy “Batman” sequels that littered the 1990s. Nolan’s screenplay and direction are violent, frightening and suspenseful, just as one would expect from a city held captive by the grip of fear. No neon purple coats and silly art-defacement scenes for this Joker; he’s too busy planting bombs in people’s skin. The best move Warner Brothers made in this series, though, is the phenomenal casting. The last sequels cast the likes of Chris O’Donnell, Alicia Silverstone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Uma Thurman and Jim Carrey – popular names hired to draw in an audience. Nolan lets his film do the talking and casts actors worthy of their roles to populate its landscape. Most of them are probably strangers to those who don’t gravitate toward independent cinema, but it will finally make stars of those who have long been deserving. Christian Bale reprises his role as the moody Bruce Wayne, who is only now beginning to realize the true price Batman will exact, physically, emotionally and personally. Maggie Gyllenhaal (“Stranger than Fiction”) replaces Katie Holmes as assistant D.A. Rachel Dawes. The role is meatier and more adult this time, calling for a higher caliber actress than Mrs. Cruise. Cillian
Murphy appears as the Scarecrow again for a split second, before he is removed from Batman’s hair forever. We’ve all heard at length about Heath Ledger’s Joker. The “Brokeback Mountain”
You finally decided that your residence should be a condominium. Condos can be an appropriate choice for a number of reasons - fewer maintenance worries and no yard work are only some of the benefits. But, what about insurance on your property? In most cases, homeowners insurance differs from condominium unit owners insurance. Homeowners insurance pro-
Serving Contra Costa for 25 years
NICHOLS LANDSCAPE Boyce Nichols - Owner - Clayton resident
COMPLETE LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION
Renovation
anyone to find a shred of pretty, lovable Ledger in this Joker’s grotesque smile. He literally disappears. Aaron Eckhart (“Thank You For Smoking”) is the suave new district attorney, Harvey
Lawns
Sprinklers
Call today for your FREE ESTIMATE Patios (Pavers & Concrete), Retaining Walls, Decks, Lawn Installation, Low Voltage Lighting, Dry River Beds, Drought Tolerant Landscaping, Irrigation (Spray & Drip)
925-672-9955
www.nicholslandscape.com Contr. Lic. No. 542812
JEANNA ROSS
Fully Insured
AT THE MOVIES
CHRISTIAN BALE ‘Dark Knight.’
AND
HEATH LEDGER in a scene from Warner Brother’s
star died of a drug overdose in January, throwing the press for his final completed role into a tailspin. It is a fitting tribute to this wonderful actor that his final role was his best. I dare
Dent. His CGI transformation is the most significant of the piece, as it foreshadows the loss of black and white morality that concludes the story and leads into what will probably be
the third film of the series. Michael Caine returns as Alfred, who is gradually transforming from Wayne mansion lackey into a wise sage, capable of not only backing Bruce’s cheering section but also offering advice from pre-Wayne experiences. Morgan Freeman stands up to Bruce Wayne as Lucius Fox, whose magnificent toys elicit actual gasps from the audience. Gary Oldman returns as Lt. James Gordon, whose deepening relationship with Batman clarifies the reality of the situations that face Gotham. Justice and order are police business, while performing the necessary deeds that would get a cop’s badge removed is Batman’s job. Oh, the wait has been worth it. At two hours and 40 minutes, it is a long haul, but there’s never a dull moment. Be forewarned: It does end a couple times, so don’t start gathering bags until the credits roll! Jeanna Ross is an English teacher at Clayton Valley High School and a free lance writer. She regularly contributes to the Pioneer. Send comments to her at movies@claytonpioneer.com.
Condominium unit owners need property insurance DOUG VAN WYCK FINANCIAL SENSE
Page 19
tects the building structure and the items inside, whereas condominium unit owners insurance protects the items you keep within your unit. Also, unit owners insurance may be needed to protect any additions or alterations you have made to your unit. KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. The condominium association insures the building structures and the common areas, like the club house or the swimming pool with the master policy. But master policies vary widely and it’s important to read the bylaws and know what is covered by your associ-
ation and what items are your responsibility to insure. As a unit owner, there are several insurance coverage options to consider: Personal property - protects personal items such as clothing and furniture. Building property - protects the additions or alterations you made to your unit. Loss of use - coverage for the necessary costs to maintain your standard of living after a major fire, tornado or another insured catastrophe. Personal liability - protects you if someone makes a claim or brings a lawsuit
against you for bodily injury or property damage for which you or a member of your family is responsible. Rentals: If you own a unit that is rented to another party most of time, ask your insurance agent about any special insurance coverage arrangements.
Learn to protect your personal property while living safely within your condominium community
You don’t need an appointment. A notary is on staff when the store is open
The UPS Store Independently owned and operated
Store Hours Mon - Fri 8 am - 6:45 pm Sat 9 am - 4:45 pm
Clayton/Concord Location:
Vineyard Shopping Center 5100 Clayton Rd., Concord ph: 925-689-6245
CEGIELSKI JEWELERS DIAMONDS ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING RINGS FINE JEWELRY GOLD & PLATINUM
Custom Design Diamond Setting Ring Sizing Chain Repair Engraving Watch Batteries
WHILE YOU WAIT
ive a ft Rece -Bear gi tient a pa Build ith new w ng i d car & clean m a ex
Les 10 m s than from inute Cla s yton
We Specialize in the Treatment of Infants, Children, and Young Adults
Randall E. Chang, DDS, Inc. Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry
Doug Van Wyck is a Certified Financial Consultant and a State Farm agent. You can reach him at 672-2300.
You name it FS Construction Lic. #593195
AFU Concrete Lic. #701871
New construction, additions, kitchen and bath remodeling, foundations, driveways, patios, retaining walls, walkways, landscaping, arbors, outdoor kitchens and BBQs and fences.
We build it 18 years experience
FREE estimates
925-672-4546
3050 Citrus Cir., #110 Walnut Creek (925) 938.2392
www.cd-wc.com
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see their dentist by their first birthday.
Page 20
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Donna’s Quilting Loft has plans to stitch together a loyal following
Creating a spectacular kitchen or bath is an art and takes Insite. Let Insite turn your idea into a
masterpiece.
August 8, 2008
NICCI SHIPSTEAD Clayton Pioneer
For all your remodeling needs, call Chris & Marc, Clayton residents
kitchen & bath & additions our specialty Chris Simoneaux > 980-0465 Marc Thorne > 383-4277 general contractors
Office > 689-6460 Fully licensed and insured: #822229
Back to School special
Joico
shampoo/ conditioner Duos
Beautique beauty supply & salon Two doors down from Donna’s Quilting Loft in Clayton Station 5439 A Clayton Road, Clayton
Open 7 days
925-672-0405
A piece of cake turned out to be more than a mouthful for Clayton business owner Donna Taber in the first few months of launching her second business at Clayton Station, Donna’s Quilting Loft. Donna thought it would be simple to move her 12-foot long arm quilt machine from her home loft to a new location next door to Beautique, which she bought four years ago. “I could just run back and forth between businesses or one day here, one day there,” she said. However, after her April 16 grand opening, the fabric merchants (having stocked the store with quality merchandise) assured her the summer months are slow in the quilting industry and business would pick up in September. In the meantime, Taber discovered that owning two businesses next door to one another is as much work as … owning two businesses.
Age Defying Night Cream Now sold at
BEAUTIQUE beauty supply & salon in the Clayton Station or visit our web site The Cosmetic Alternative to Botox ®
RosebudNightCream.com
Nicci Shipstead/Clayton Pioneer
DONNA TABER OPENED DONNA’S QUILTING LOFT next to her existing beauty supply business in Clayton Station. The store specializes in quilting kits, offers classes in quilting and stocks a wide variety of fabrics.
Taber’s research into the viability of a quilt shop in Clayton came during stages of renovation at Beautique, when she hung quilts on the walls to disguise “blemishes.” Many Beautique patrons were enthusiastic that Clayton “needed” a quilt shop and said they would love to have a local shop for classes and fabrics. “I haven’t seen many of them in here yet,” said Taber. “I hope it’s not the economy. I hope the fabric merchants are right and things pick up; but there hasn’t been enough business to keep two staff. I had to let one person go.”
925-672-0405 Made in the U.S.A.
SHOP OWNER DONNA TABER shares a quilted purse kit with her friend Cheryl at Donna’s Quilting Loft in Clayton Station.
Donna’s husband Richard supports her businesses. He built the “loft” platform at the back of the shop and eagerly helped her move the long arm quilt machine from their home. He also built the merchandise shelving units and counters. “The beautiful thing that makes Clayton business unique is that the people here stand behind you,” Taber said. “I know there are many skillful quilters in Clayton and Concord. I want to
make this a place for us to come together as teachers and students.” Taber said her original intent for the store, aside from housing the long arm, was to make quilts and offer kits and classes. “I actually have more fabric choices than I was intending,” she admitted. “I don’t like clutter. But the fabric is like medicine to me. One time Richard found me in the loft running my hands over a quilt I was working on. He said I had the goofiest look on my face … a grin from ear to ear. I was just in another place.” Quilter Cindy Delumen of Livermore agrees. “You can just pet it,” she said of the fabric. Delumen noticed Donna’s Quilting Loft while making trips to help her daughter-in-law move from Clayton to Livermore and stopped in for a refreshing respite from the heat and toil of the day. She visits quilt shops and travels with friends frequently to discover shops and new fabrics. Delumen purchased several contemporary “transition fabrics” for a friend’s birthday gift and took several cards to pass around. Another customer noticed Donna’s sign and demanded her driver detour their immediate plans. “I’m a new quilter,” explained Jeanette Norman of Concord, “and it’s like a vacuum suction pulling me into any quilt shop.” If you want to learn to quilt, Taber recommends taking a class. Sign-up for “Square-inSquare” method training on Aug. 8 and 15. Coming soon is “Stitch ’n’ Flip,” creating a unique flower garden or autumn tree wallhanging. Stop in any Friday to ask questions, get advice and comments and work on quilting projects. Crochet classes are also being planned, a monthly e-mail
newsletter is in the works and the Block of the Month Club begins in January. The club has a special place in Taber’s heart. About 10 years ago, she worked at Ben Franklin’s – cutting fabric pieces for about 60 kits each month. Recently, a vaguely familiar face came to the Loft asking if Donna knew someone who might sew a quilt. The patron had lost the physical ability to sew a number of years ago but really wants the quilt she began prior to her disability. Taber gladly volunteered and happily discovered the fabric blocks from her Ben Franklin days. She hopes to finish the piecing soon and looks forward to quilting her long-ago Block of the Month. Donna’s Quilting Loft accepts competitors’ coupons and is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at the Clayton Station, 5439 Clayton Rd., Suite D. For more information, call 672-0401.
Downtown, from page 1 The concerts are co-sponsored by the Clayton Business and Community Association and the city of Clayton. A review and evaluation of the concerts will be on an October council meeting agenda. Event coordinator, Howard Geller hopes that all of the downtown business owners will be at the meeting to discuss the concert series and the impact on business. “We all care, so I am confident that we will make adjustments on future series... After all, this is Clayton, a town with heart.”
August 8, 2008
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 21
Put Murphys at the center of your Gold Country adventure
a s l r e e m m u S l a nnu
Ang on now
20 to 50% off
goi
select items
PENNY CANNON
TRAVEL NOTES Nestled between the Gold Country and the Calaveras Big Trees sits the town of Murphys. In 1848, John and Dan Murphy opened a trading post and later a mining camp with the cooperation of the local Miwok Indians. By 1852, Murphys was a thriving boomtown of nearly 3,000 residents. Today it has the distinction of being named “One of the Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America” by Frommer’s. The town is rich in charm and character, with its many shops, galleries, restaurants and wineries. It also boasts the Growler, a brew pub and pizza parlor. The food is good, but the high quality of the beers (brewed onsite) makes it worth the stop. Of the many wineries in the area, don’t miss Ironstone. Much more then just a winery, it is an entertainment complex with acres of manicured gardens, a world-class amphitheater and an historical museum. The conference facility and music room is the home of the Alhambra Pipe Organ, a treat to the ears. The delicatessen is a great place to have lunch while waiting for a tour, which is a must. The wine tasting is free, and the award-winning wines are world famous.
Tues. - Fri.: 10-5, Sat.: 9-5 Closed Sundays through Labor Day
1028 - 1030 Diablo St. across from Skip’s 925-672-2025
Check out our new look and menu including
Photo courtesy of The Dunbar House
THE DUNBAR HOUSE IS AN ITALIANATE STYLE HOME built in 1880 by Willis Dunbar, a highly accomplished and profoundly esteemed citizen. This “romantic” home was designed exclusively for his bride, Ellen Roberts, of Douglas Flat.
a welcoming tour of the beautifully and lovingly decorated property. Our home for the night was the spacious Cedar Room, furnished with the charm of yesterday and filled with all the modern amenities. Its comforts include a Norwegian gas stove and a flat screen TV, a Queen Anne dresser and a CD player, and both an enclosed sun porch with whirlpool bath and a private
We awoke the next morning to the sounds of the water fountain outside our French door. An artistically presented gourmet breakfast was served in
“Of the many wineries in the area, don’t miss Ironstone. Much more then just a winery, it is an entertainment complex with acres of manicured gardens, a world-class amphitheater and an historical museum.” the garden, among decorative statuary and pots overflowing with color. We shared the morning with a couple from Southern California. The food, the conversation, the sound of water and soft music blended together to make this charming bed and breakfast the highlight of our trip.
The many activities in and around Murphys are more than you can fit into a day or two. Moaning Cavern offers a 100foot spiral staircase, which descends into this natural wonder. Or you can take the faster route and rappel 165 feet down to the bottom of the cave. Above ground, you can experience the thrilling adventure of twin Zip Lines. This exhilarating ride will take you more than 1,500 feet at speeds in excess of 40 miles an hour. The hardest part is relaxing and enjoying the ride. Of course, you must hike the Calaveras Big Trees. And if you have time, drive up to Bear Valley and kayak around the peaceful waters of Lake Alpine. The friendly staff at Bear Valley Adventure Company will set you up with everything you need.
Gigantic burrito Steak Sandwich Caribbean Coconut Fried Bananas
Happy Hour, weekdays 4 – 7 p.m. Free appetizers 4:30 - 6 p.m.
Tuesday Jam night with Neil Hampton
Wednesday Mention this ad, order two entrees and pick any appetizer you want
FOR FREE!
Beer Pong with $10 pitchers of Bud Lite Thursdays & Fridays Karaoke
Saturday Live music, 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Sunday Blues, Brews and BBQ, 1 - 5 p.m. 459-0574 4633 Clayton Rd. www.ajsportspub.com
The OLYMPICS start 8/6/08. Watch all the action on our ten TVs
Abbey Carpet & Floor/ Contra Costa Floors Fashion Floor Sale
Penny Cannon is a published author and lifelong resident of Contra Costa County. Her most recent book, “Senso Oware” chronicles the life of her father and his years as a POW during WWII.
Photos courtesy of The Dunbar House
THE
MUSIC ROOM
houses the lovely Alhambra Pipe Organ.
The Dunbar House is just a short walk from Murphys’ historic Main Street. Built in 1880 by Willis Dunbar for his young bride Ellen Roberts Dunbar, it was at the time the most prominent home in the area. This turn of the century B&B is a crown jewel of the Gold Country, rich with original antiques and modern comfort. Our hostess, Arline, gave us
If You Go . . .
open porch overlooking the beautifully tended Mediterranean garden. Our mini-fridge was stocked with a complimentary bottle of local wine, a tray of cheese and appetizers, bottled water and other goodies. Once we settled in for the night, I had no interest in leaving the beauty we had found at the Dunbar House.
Ironstone Winery: 1894 Six Mile Road, Murphys. 209728-1251. www.ironstonevineyards.com. Dunbar House: 271 Jones St., Murphys. 800-6926006. www.dunbarhouse.com. Moaning Cavern and Zip Lines: 5350 Moaning Cave Road, Vallecito. 866-762-2837. www.caverntours.com/MoCavRt.htm. Bear Valley Adventure Company: 209-753-2834. www.bearvalleyxc.com. Murphys: www.visitmurphys.com.
g5 ratin
FREE ESTIMATES
Quality Custom Redwood
$2 OFF
OUR EXPERIENCED STAFF IS EAGER TO HELP YOU WITH ALL OF YOUR FLOORING NEEDS. 1170 Burnett Ave., Ste. E, Concord 925-686-9901
CARPET
s year
b Cele
HARDWOOD
Contra Costa Floors Showroom hours
M-F 9-5
LAMINATE
Retirement Community
(must present this coupon at time of estimate)
Fencing styles include
Clayton Business License #1537
Contractor’s License #874803
TILE
(925) 524-5100
for our neighbors in Concord and Clayton
Board on Board Dog Ear Nail-On Deer Lattice Top Flat Top Louvered Custom Fences Also Arbors, Decks,
“I have met some wonderful friends
and Retaining Walls.
925-370-0747
Call today for a personal tour & complimentary lunch
per linear foot
We are a referral based business and have completed many jobs in the Clayton and Concord area. References are available in your area.
Sat 10-4
6401 Center Street Clayton CA 94517
www.diamondterrace.net
here. I’m so impressed with how active and involved people are with the community at large. When you first walk in you feel so uplifted!”
- Donna Nelson
Page 22
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 8, 2008
Nine natives to suit any Clayton yard NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL Clayton Valley gardeners should be excited about all the potential native plants available to install in their yard and gardens. Water rationing worries have opened our eyes to perusing perspective perennials and shrubs that need little to no water once established. California native plants can fulfill our yard and garden dreams. They require what our environment gives naturally. They do not need fancy soil conditioners, weekly liquid fertilizers or daily water, and it is possible to have a lush, flowery, attractive garden while using native plants. Let’s start simple, with nine native introductions that are easy to find and simple to enjoy. Salvia clevelandii has long been a desired evergreen perennial, valued for the solid evergreen foliage, long summer bloom and intense woody fragrance. Now we can admire that this plant is a native, found on the dry slopes of Southern California. Winifred Gilman and Allen Chickering are among the easiest to find Salvia clevelandii varieties. They are compact, reaching 3-5 feet tall and wide depending. Branches are covered with lavender/blue whirls of two-lipped flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Next time you need a replacement for a Pink
Breath of Heaven or a Hebe, give Salvia clevelandii a try. Wooly blue curls has a unique, cottage appeal. The 12inch royal purple spikes of flowers have long curly stamens, thus the name. This shrub will reach 3-4 feet tall and wide, blooming mid-summer through early winter. The tips for success with this native are simple: full Eastern sun to bright shade with excellent drainage. Consider planting on a berm or slope. Trichostema lanatum is the botanical name for the wooly blue curls, if you care to do any research.
heights of 18 inches and widths up to 2 feet. Blue Springs loves to be planted in well-drained soil in full sun. Install on a slope or in garden beds adjacent to moonshine yarrow and gaillardia fanfare. These selections are not native, but their low maintenance and drought tolerance makes them nice companions. Not every plant needs to be a California native to be a hardy water-saver. Pink flowering currant is a great native for light shade or Eastern sun exposure. The
naked month. During spring, pendulous clusters of tiny pink flowers stretch 6 inches or so. The pretty foliage is cut like a rounded maple and textured with interest. After the flower, the berry begins to form. It attracts birds, another great attribute of the flowering currant. If you’re thinking of a camellia, try this Ribes sanguineum Clairmont (the botanical name for flowering currant). You will not miss having to regularly fertilize with acid, add iron and pick up fallen flowers.
PINK FLOWERING CURRANT
Penstomen heterophyllus Blue Springs has an electric blue, trumpet-shaped blossom that tops shiny green foliage. This is a medium-sized evergreen perennial that can reach
height and width make it a great foundation or fence planting, eventually reaching 6 feet tall and wide. This plant is deciduous, yet the fall color makes the bare branches worth every
Blechnum spicant is commonly called the Deer Fern. If you have hiked within Northern California’s redwood forests, you have seen carpets of ferns beneath the roots of the trees.
Many older local residences have established redwoods, cedars and pine, and owners often have little idea what to install below their canopies. Shade, roots and clay soil make for poor drainage. This makes for a moist environment where the deer fern would naturally thrive. Charming, deep green fronds will reach 18 inches to 2 feet tall and wide. Carpentaria California Elizabeth would also thrive in the shade of established trees. This evergreen shrub grows 6 feet tall and adds interest and color to older fence lines. Sometime in the middle of spring, this native begins to bloom simple shaped, pure white flowers born in perfusion and stretching 2 inches wide. This deer-resistant evergreen has hardly any needs other than well-drained soil. The Matilija Poppy is a very recognizable native. The blooms feature crinkly white, crape-like flower petals with bright yellow stamens. One can not resist comparing the flower to a huge fried egg. Once happy, this evergreen is vigorous, reaching 4-7 feet tall and wide. Until then, though, cross your fingers that the plant takes. Occasionally you like this shrub more than it likes you, and you can kill a plant with too much love. Sticky monkey flowers look like snapdragon shrubs. They have stakes of wonderfully colored, tubular-shaped flowers in many colors – cream, yellows, pinks and oranges. Anyone looking for an evergreen perennial that reaches 2-3 feet tall and wide should try a mimulus. This native prefers moderate
MATILIJA POPPY
sun to bright shade and is great installed under deciduous shade trees. Fremontodendron californicum Pacific Sunset is also called a flannel bush. Evergreen and robust, it reaches 20 feet tall and wide. Flowers of deep golden yellow spread 4 inches in diameter and are present from early spring until summer begins to really roast. This year, with our summer’s inconsistency, the flannel bushes have continued to bloom through July. Fremontodendron likes it dry and hot. Do not plant near sod, but rather in the distance of the garden where the conditions are more hostile. Water only occasionally during the summer the first year or two, then this native will be good to go. There your have it – nine nice natives for almost any Clayton Valley garden. Embrace these ideas. They may be the way of the future. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
georgevujnovich.com
Trust your home to
GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979 DANA HILLS!
Tel: (925) 672-4433 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517
FALCON RIDGE!
ING D N PE
Beautifully updated! 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 2,078sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage. Decorator paint colors-textured ceilings-dual panes-2” wood blinds-upgraded light fixtures-closet organizers-hardwood-tile & neutral carpet. Living room with fireplace & views of hills. Dining room off kitchen. Family room with custom arches, media recess & slider to patio. Country kitchen features a garden window offering views of hills & breakfast nook with bay window with built-in bench seat. Spacious master. Large totally private level professionally & vibrantly landscaped lot boasts an expansive exposed aggregate patio, lush lawn area, large paved side yard & play area! $639,000
Expanded & Exquisite “Serenade” model! tucked away on a quiet court. 5 bedrooms plus a den, 3 full baths, approx. 3,143sf, inside laundry with utility sink & upgraded side yard access door & 3 car garage. Extensive upgrading includes: Travertine tile floors & neutral carpet, wood blinds, silhouettes & custom window treatments, lighting package & designer paint throughout! Gourmet kitchen offers granite tile counters, island & recipe desk, raised panel maple cabinets, travertine floors & large eating area. Large family room. Downstairs bedroom or 2nd family room. Luxurious master suite offers views. Professionally $850,000 landscaped lot features large lush lawn area, lots of flowers, trees & ornamentals.
FALCON RIDGE!
Clayton Market Update provided by
Fantastic Single Story!
ING D N PE
Commercial Space for lease. Newer one story building next to post office. Approx. 865 sf.
Sensational Single Story “Champagne” model! Impeccably maintained 3
bedroom + den, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,542sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage. All baths feature upgraded 13” Tile floors. Garage boasts epoxy treated floor & utility sink. Living & dining room feature crown moulding & custom window treatments. Spacious family room with fireplace, media alcove & ceiling fan. Gourmet kitchen offers upgraded tumbled stone tile counters & island, 13” tile floors & an abundance of cabinets. Huge master suite features custom wall paint/treatment, lighted fan with bath boasting an oversized jetted tub, stall shower & tile counters featuring custom accent tile & rope design. Large level totally private lot backs to open space with views of hills & ridge. Expansive custom stamped concrete patio & hardscape. Huge “Sundance” spa. Covered patio with additional upgraded shade awnings. Vibrant landscape $679,000
George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
BED/BATH
1374 Shell Lane 1025 Feather Cir 968 Oak St 5161 Keller Ridge Dr 1171 Moccasin Ct 1128 Peacock Creek Dr 3089 Windmill Canyon Dr 195 Mt. Wilson Way 4 Mount Wilson Way 22 Eagle Peak Ave
$488,000 $508,000 $585,000 $598,000 $590,000 $1,099,950 $615,000 $592,000 $312,000 $729,000
7/25/08 7/22/08 7/15/08 7/15/08 7/10/08 7/08/08 7/03/08 7/02/08 06/27/08 06/25/08
1709 1338 1758 2053 1911 4076 1816 2152 966 2467
3/3 3/2 4/2.5 3/2 4/2.5 4/3.5 3/2.5 4/2 2/2 4/3