DEC 19 Clayton Pioneer 2008.pdf by Pioneer Publishers

Happy Holidays from all of us to all of you

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IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

December 19, 2008

925.672.0500

First Christmas in the Grove park TAMARA STEINER AND BOB STEINER Clayton Pioneer

JULIE PIERCE

MAYOR’S CORNER

Start the new year at our family party As your returning mayor, I have the honor of writing this column for the next year. I hope you will take an active role in the discussion and let me know if there are issues you’d like me to address. This is a year of transition for your City Council. Two of our veteran council members, Gregg Manning and Bill Walcutt, decided to retire. Please see the accompanying article for more about their years of dedicated service to our community. I thank you for your support of my re-election and I want to welcome Joe Medrano and Howard Geller to the council. They are dynamic, enthusiastic men who already contribute much to our community and I’m sure they will bring all of that energy and commitment to their new roles on the council. It will be a challenging year for all cities as we deal with economic issues and as the state continues to steal from local government to address its financial responsibilities. I want to focus on the positive this time, so more about that in a future column. A huge thank you to the Clayton Business and Community Association for another fabulous job of decorating the town and the holiday

See Mayor, page 9

Photo by Pete Barra

THE MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHORUS, gathered on the gazebo steps, set a festive mood for the annual Clayton Tree Lighting with a medley of holiday songs. This was the first Christmas in the new park which opened in January.

On a crisp, clear night early in December, Claytonians gathered downtown for the traditional tree lighting that kicks off the holidays in Clayton every year. This year, however, something was different. Instead of crowding around in front of the museum on Main Street, about 1000 locals headed for the Grove where a stately Christmas tree sparkled in a gazebo decked out with garland and bows and Santa in his sleigh, with five of his reindeer, lit up the night sky from atop the ramada. “Isn’t this amazing?” said Mayor Julie Pierce, welcoming the crowd to the first Christmas in the Grove park, which opened in February 2008. She was joined on the gazebo steps by the Mt. Diablo Elementary School Chorus. It wasn’t long before Santa made a nontraditional entrance in a 1974 vintage police cruiser, red lights flashing and sirens blaring. There wasn’t enough room

See Tree Lighting, page 2

Manning and Walcutt bid farewell to City Council JULIE PIERCE Special to the Pioneer

The town we love today is the legacy of the leadership of many people over many years. Two veteran council members retired this year. Gregg Manning and Bill Walcutt have given 22 and 11 years, respectively, to the betterment of our town. Nearly a hundred of their close friends and colleagues

City Council reorganizes for ‘09

Photo by Pete Barra

IT WAS AN EVENING OF COMINGS AND GOINGS FOR THE CLAYTON CITY COUNCIL ON DEC. 2. Council members Julie Pierce, Howard Geller and Joe Medrano were sworn in by City Clerk Laci Jackson, Pierce was elected mayor by acclamation of the Council and Hank Stratford was voted vice-mayor. Following the reorganization, the Council bid farewell to veteran members Bill Walcutt and Gregg Manning.

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

from Clayton and the region gathered to roast and toast these two men for their service on Dec. 4 at Oakhurst Country Club. Our town looked very different when Gregg and Bill first took office. They were both actively involved in the planning of the Oakhurst project and Clayton Station. The Grove actually had a large stand of huge eucalyptus trees and they were echoed along Clayton Road by the DeMartini Winery, which is now City Hall. There was a single, dimly lit two-lane road that ran from our western boundary at Concord down Clayton Road through Main Street and became Marsh Creek Road in downtown. Oakhurst Drive didn’t exist nor did Clayton Road behind Easley Estates. Downtown Clayton and many residential neighborhoods had no sewers, storm drains or sidewalks. During their tenures, our town has grown and added services. MORE HOMES, BUSINESSES Oakhurst, Greystone Estates, Stranahan, Bridlewood, Rachel Ranch, Pine Hollow Estates and Mitchell Creek Place have added families to our town. Diamond Terrace brings our seniors close to home. We have a new middle school for our children. We’ve added the Clayton Community Park and Lydia Lane, El Molino and Westwood parks throughout the neighborhoods and the wonderful new Grove Park downtown. We’ve

Church News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Community Calendar . . . . . . . . . .19

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

GREGG MANNING (LEFT) AND BILL WALCUTT both credit their wives, Joan and Pam, for their years of patience and support. Manning and Walcutt retired this year after 33 years of combined service on the Clayton City Council. raised money and built our new library, gym and fire station. We have added businesses in Clayton Station and Longs downtown. New businesses are being actively recruited and built in our historic downtown. We have preserved the original Keller Ranch House for future restoration. We refurbished historic Endeavor Hall as an event center and converted the DeMartini Winery to active use as our City Hall. We’ve built new roads, renovated trails and added services for our residents. Gregg and Bill have helped make these services possible.

CVHS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Deal With It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . . .5 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

KEEPING AN EYE ON THE BUDGET

Gregg was appointed to the council in 1986 to fill the vacated term of Jim McCormick and served continuously until Dec. 2, 2008. He was chosen by his colleagues on the council to serve as our mayor in 1992, 1997, 2002, 2005 and 2008. Gregg’s financial expertise has been a valuable asset and he has always been a diligent watchdog of our city’s budget. An avid reader, Gregg has been an ardent supporter of the Clayton Community Library, working at the book sales and serving on the Library Foundation Board.

Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Holiday Shopping Guide . . . . . . .10 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Gregg and his wife Joan are active volunteers and you will see them working many of our Clayton events. He runs Kiddieland for the Art and Wine Festival and Oktoberfest. A regular walker of our trails, Gregg collects a truck full of debris during the Clayton Cleans Up events. Now in its sixth year, Gregg co-founded the Clayton Counts Down Community New Year’s Eve no-alcohol family celebration we host at the gym every year. In addition to routine council

See Retirement, page 9

Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 School News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Sharing History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 19, 2008

Christmas in Clayton Tree Lighting From page 1 for him to safely land in the park, Pierce explained. So, he parked his sleigh at city hall, and hitched a ride over with the Clayton PD. After a brief stop at the gazebo and a few words for the excited kids, Santa then led the crowd down Main Street to the community Christmas Tree, where he threw the switch on a tree that just gets bigger and grander every year. Clayton Community Church provided hot cider and donut holes and a high tech sound and light show by Jeffrey Holmes

CBCA Celebrates

The Clayton Business and Community wrapped up their year with a Christmas party and dinner in the Diamond Terrace dining room following the tree lighting on Dec. 6. The CBCA sponsors the Art and Wine Festival, the Clayton Classic Golf Tournament, the Oktoberfest, the downtown treelighting and the popular Breakfast with Mrs. Claus. All money raised goes to benefit the community in the

that set the entire town sparkling with colorful lights and good cheer. All of the new park decorations were donated and installed by the Clayton Business and Community Association. Next year, the plan is to move the Santa and five reindeer across Marsh Creek Road to the bigger Corral ramada which will accommodate all eight of Santa’s reindeer, says CBCA’s Gloria Utley.

form of donations and scholarships. CBCA membership is open to all. Clayton residence is not required. For more information, call Sue White, 672-2272. Pictured below: 1. Susan Fossan, Renee Faine and Carol Chrobak dish up at the buffet catered by Kinder’s; 2. Past president Mike Fossan and Tom Faine; 3. Linda Miller; 4. Dave Atkinson, Dennis Barbieri and Barbara Locke; 5. Dennis and Amelia Olson

1. After a slightly off-key “Jingle Bells,” Santa flipped the switch on the tree, then took time before leaving to pass out hugs; 2. The tree in the gazebo was donated and installed by the CBCA; 3. A sound and light show at Clayton Community Church was a fitting end to a sparkly celebration; 4. The Jordans, Paul, Mary and William, age 9; 5. Gary and Kim Napper

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$315,000 Clayton Marsh Creek Villas – Well-maintained 2BD/2BA patio home w/a spacious 2-car garage! Features a dining room, master suite w/walk-in closet, living room w/fireplace & wet bar and a very accessible bright, sunny kitchen. Located on cul-de-sac w/lovely views of surrounding hilltops. www.9DonnerCreekCourt.com

Clayton $928,000 Peacock Creek – Downstairs master suite incl. master bath w/jetted tub. Private yard with spectacular pool, spa & waterfall. 4-car garage to store your toys! Fireplaces in living & family rooms. Plantation shutters throughout. Comfortable and elegant! Backs to open space.

$589,000 Clayton Jeffry Ranch – 4BD/2.5BA has RV Parking, 3-car garage and huge yard with guest house in back incl. 1BD/1BA & laundry. Main home has skylights in hall & bath & the living room has cathedral ceilings. Tile kitchen w/garden window. Florida room off Master bedroom.

Clayton $629,980 Dana Hills – 4BD+/2BA includes a huge permitted bonus room/game room addition with wet bar & fireplace. Approx. 2,442 s.f. flowing floorplan has living room w/fireplace & step up dining. The kitchen flows into a family area w/slider to back. Master has door to patio area & views. www.369MtWashingtonWay.com

Clayton $699,000 Regency Meadows – Putting green, pool & spa! 2,857 s.f. 5BD/3BA incl. one full B/B downstairs. Vaulted ceilings, w/w carpet & wood blinds throughout the main living areas. Family room w/fireplace & bar. Master retreat w/views & fireplace. Roomy kitchen w/hardwood floors & island. www.250ElPuebloPlace.com

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Clayton $999,800 Country Estate Living – Custom single-story 4BD/3BA w/over 3,700 s.f. sits down a private lane at the foot of Mt. Diablo. Chef kitchen w/granite & prep island & a wonderful floor plan with open rooms. Massive wrap-around Trex deck & beautiful landscaping w/gated pool & spa. www.8114MarshCreekRoad.com

December 19, 2008

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Around Town

Fire dept. Peet’s teams up with CV theater campaign Dynamic Duo’s holiday party can’t field benefits Contra Costa Food Bank phone calls regarding wood ban

Peet’s Coffee in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center has selected Clayton Valley High School’s “Got Theatre” campaign for its holiday donation program. The fund-raising campaign aims to build a Performing Arts Center at the Concord high school. Through Dec. 24, the store will match donations up to $1,000. On Dec. 24, all drip coffee and tea will be free as a gift to customers as well as to encourage additional donations for the theater campaign. “Every year, each Peet’s store picks a local organization to help,” said store manager Darren Matsuura. “We had a list of candidates, and a few people who work in our store have done theater so they really wanted to help get this going.” Peet’s is at 5458 Ygnacio Valley Road in Concord. For more information, call Peet’s at 673-5225 or visit www.claytontheatrequest.com.

THE PETER PAN FOUNDATION performance at local holiday party helped to raise $1,000 for Food Bank

PEET’S IN THE CV CENTER will match donations up to $1000 to benefit CVHS’ Got Theatre program, through Dec. 24. Pictured, Manager Darren Matsuura and Assistant Manager Andrew Pollard.

Croc survives, Pioneer doesn’t

Helen Rahimzadeh and Stephanie Lopez hosted their annual holiday party on Dec. 6. Over 80 friends and clients of the Dynamic Duo attended and donated $1000 for the Contra Costa Food Bank, enough to buy over $6000 worth of food for the holiday season. The Peter Pan Foundation, which raises money for the

Club News KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS The 11th annual Substance Abuse Poster Contest is open through Jan. 30. Posters must be 11 by 17, in color or charcoal. Age groups are 8-11 and 12-14 in the categories of “Drug Abuse Awareness” and “Alcohol Abuse Awareness.” For more information, contact Claire Tryon at 673-8564 or greyeototo@sbcglobal.net. CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club gathered at Oakhurst Country Club on Dec. 9 for the annual Christmas luncheon and installation of officers. Members were greeted with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, which were then sold at a silent auction. Before lunch was served, Clayton Valley High School students performed Christmas music by Bella Notte.

WHEN CBCA MEMBERS JIM AND MARY ANN LAWRENCE AND ED AND CECILIA HARTLEY TRAVELED TOGETHER TO EGYPT as part of a group, they intended to have their picture taken with a Clayton Pioneer. That was going to happen right after this visit to a Nubian house to see how some of the locals live. While Cecelia (holding the croc) and Maryann were playing with this real live Nile crocodile, he got hungry and snatched the Pioneer right out of Cecilia’s hands. So they had to improvise. “The croc survived,” Ed reported.

Oakland Children’s Hospital, performed a medley of Holiday Music for the Young and Old. “They truly amazed guests with their talent and passion for the arts,” Stephanie said. The group will be performing “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” on Dec. 20 at Diablo Valley College. For more info go to: www.Peterpanfoundation.org.

NEW OFFICERS FOR THE CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB include Joyce Atkinson, left, Kathy Hester, Fran Hahn, Carolyn Lorenzetti, Barbara Locke, Thelma Lee Campbell, Connie Weimar, Jeanne Groschwitz, Chris Light, Arlene Lewandowski and Judy Bates.

CLAYTON BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION SOROPTIMIST CLUB

Sara Zsenai honored Sara Zsenai, elementary and special education major from Clayton, was one of 20 graduating seniors to receive the prestigious Gold Axe Award from Northern Arizona University at a Nov. 18 ceremony in Flagstaff, Ariz. Sara was recognized for her contributions to the university in the areas of academic performance, leadership and service to the NAU community.

The new wood-burning rule in the Bay Area has left many residents with questions about when they are allowed to use their fireplaces. This year, for the first time, it is illegal to burn wood, pellets or manufactured fire logs when a Winter Spare the Air Alert is issued. Because of this rule, fire district dispatchers are getting a lot of calls asking “Is this a Spare the Air night? Is fireplace burning allowed?” Emily Hopkins of the Contra Costa Fire Protection District is urging residents not to call the department with these concerns. To check on burn bans, call the toll-free hotline at 877-4NO-BURN (877466-2876) or visit www.sparetheair.org. The bans are updated daily by noon.

DIABLO VISTA SOROPTIMIST CLUB president Mary Ann Hazlick, left, past president Diane Graham and past president Sue Manning of Clayton welcome shoppers with the traditional Salvation Army bells at the Clayton Valley Kmart on Dec. 6. Volunteers from local Rotary and Kiwanis clubs manned kettles all over town on Dec. 13 in support of the Salvation Army Concord Corps Red Kettle Christmas Campaign.

DEE MUNK AND TAMARA STEINER

Pioneer publishers, Tamara and Bob Steiner held the winning ticket for the raffle prize at the CBCA annual Christmas dinner on Dec. 6. The throw, hand knit in a tulip pattern by Dee Munk, was some 20 years in the making. She started it in 1982 and finished all but the crochet border in about six months, finally completing it this year. For each of the past three years, Dee has donated a handknit throw for the raffle which has raised nearly $700 to benefit the CBCA Adopt-a-Family program. Dee has been knitting since she was a child. “I find it relaxing and portable,” she says. “I can knit while I listen at a meeting, watch television or cheer at a grandchild’s ball game.”

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Good attitude and a little gratitude will go a long way in bad economy

“I do all work myself. I am the only person that will be in your house.” - Leah Gomez Owner, Clayton Resident

FREE ESTIMATE

December 19, 2008

The word is out; the country is in a recession. Most people knew this some time ago as sales slumped and businesses started closing. Realtors stared at a near zero activity list as home values fell and foreclosures began to pile up. Likewise, businesses with large inventories found themselves trapped and unable to move stock. America is in trouble. From a massive debt to the ever-growing ranks of the unskilled products of a failing education system, itself facing massive budget cuts, we find ourselves floundering in a way not seen since the last recession back in the ’70s or worse, the flickering image of a potential depression.

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Happy holidays to all from Beautique

One thing America has had, historically, is a national determination that seems to become apparent during tough times. No matter the way we conduct business during times of prosperity, it is during a crisis that this country typically discovers its true identity. There is, after all, a national pride and a national attitude that we will prevail, no matter the hardship. We somehow believe that we will, at some point, ultimately prosper once again. No one denies the inherent difficulties involved. Getting motion in a stilled economy is no easy task, and it’s one problem that the president elect has already undertaken as much as he

is able. I do not recall a prior time when the president elect stood behind a podium, taking charge before having even been sworn into office. Nonetheless, it sets a positive tone. Why wait to take action? Hit the ground running. Perhaps the message is how a positive attitude can go a long way in a bad economy. It is certainly a message we are seeing a lot as hardships force more to the food banks and agencies set up to help those in need. Americans, even in their own struggles, find time to be generous to those who need help. And while we still put up the tree and wish each other a happy

ANDRÉ GENSBURGER

DEAL WITH IT holiday, we tighten our belts and cut back on unnecessary spending, drop some coins in the Salvation Army kettle and remind ourselves of our blessings and not our hardships. It is that good attitude that will help us to deal with it.

André Gensburger is a staff reporter and feature writer for the Pioneer. His email address is andre@claytonpioneer.com

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COLLEEN ELWY Special to the Pioneer

I have had the privilege of meeting with several residents of Clayton recently. As always, it is heartwarming for me to share a small part of their personal history and to hear them reminisce and share their most memorable holiday recollections.

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DORIS HALLBERG, 88 During wartime, my husband, who was a bomber pilot, was driving us from Texas to Nebraska according to his new orders. We stopped for a few groceries and looked forward to going into town for Thanksgiving dinner the next day. However, during the night the snow had accumulated and we couldn’t get out. Consequently, our Thanksgiving dinner consisted of eggs, toast and I think some bacon. My husband filled two glasses with snow and put some crème de menthe over them. It certainly was a bleak Thanksgiving dinner for us, but we still had so much to be grateful for even so.

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DICK NELSON, 80S When I was a child, I went to the “Sunshine Camp” out on Marsh Creek Road during Christmas time for health reasons. There were a lot of kids out there and I was about 8 years old. I believe it was Christmas Eve day that two men had escaped from the prison camp there and came riding right through our camp on horseback. There were two deputies following them and raising a lot of dust. All of us kids were eating out on the porch and couldn’t believe they

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came right by us. It was like the Wild West, and it’s one holiday that I have never forgotten. HANNAH JOHNSON, 95 I was about 5 years old and living in Iowa on a farm with my family. I don’t know who it was, but we had Santa come through all the farms by horse and wagon and deliver bags of candy to each of the kids. It was such a special treat because kids only got one item for Christmas and the candy was extra. We had many white Christmases there, and it’s something I’ll always remember. BOB AND JUNE CASE, BOTH 93 It was 1946 and there were huge celebrations as everyone was discharged from the services to go home. I was so excited to get home to June and my children that I drove from Texas to Oakland non-stop and it took me 32 hours to get there. It was a Sunday night and June was already sleeping. I drove the winding road up the hill and blasted my car horn and woke up June. She was so surprised as I hadn’t told her I was coming because I was afraid that something would get fouled up and I wouldn’t get to come home. There were big get-togethers and everyone was so happy. MARGE CRAWFORD, 79 One Christmas season when I was 5 and my sister was 8, we were leafing through the Sears Roebuck catalog – the treasure trove of all wonderful things in those days – and we saw a picture of a chalkboard that could stand on its own. We quickly had Mom write a letter to Santa asking for our dream gift.

On Christmas Eve day it began to snow quietly, but as the day went on it was worse and by bedtime there was a blizzard. We were concerned about Santa’s trip to our house through all of that. But on Christmas morning, there was our lovely chalkboard under the tree. We were amazed at Santa’s ability to get it to us, but Mom explained that Santa had to leave our gift over at Grandpa’s house, several big farm fields away from ours, because of the snow. So Grandpa bundled up and trampled through the storm to bring us Santa’s gift. In later years, I looked back at that Christmas tale and was reminded how it typified my dear Grandpa’s ways. He would do anything for his beloved granddaughters. DOROTHY WOODRUFF, 77 In 1960, I had two sons and a daughter. Both my boys wanted a new bike for Christmas. We took the seat and tires off of the oldest boy’s bike and cleaned it up and put it under the tree. On Christmas morning, my oldest son Sam saw his new bike. And Ron saw the seat and tires that he would use to make a new bike. The neighbor boys had told Ron before Christmas that because there was a new baby in his family, Ron would probably not get a new bike. Well, the presents were opened and then I asked Ron to go in the kitchen and get me something. When he went in there he cried out that there was a new bike in the kitchen for him. He was so happy that he could hardly believe it. Of course, they both went outside and rode their new bikes around the blocks. I was so happy for him and he was so proud of his new bike.

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December 19, 2008

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

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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 , Sales and Administrative Support C HRISTINA S CARLOTT , Administrative Assistant We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

PIONEER INFO CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com 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)

When: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Dec. 31 Where: Clay ton Community Gym

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.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 300 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter in a Word document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.

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The whole family will enjoy games and activities for all ages, crafts and delicious food and snacks at this annual alcohol-free celebration.

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.

Construction and Trades Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 FS Construction/AFU Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4546 Insite Design and Build . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .980-0465 Mario Navea Gen. Contractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5260 Michael Dwyer & Sons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3980 S&K Nellis Painting, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-2233 Smith & Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0138 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 Tim’s Home Improvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9471 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679

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Classified FOR RENT Master Bedroom 4 rent. Quiet home in Concord. Wi-Fi and cable included, Washer/Dryer, hardwood floors, marble bath, kitchen privileges. Furnished or unfurnished same price $700.00 Bedroom w/shared bath $600.00, 2 bedroom apartment with balcony $1300 Call (925) 497-0253 South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental Great location, sleeps 6 to 8 comfortably. Pictures and home details can be found at www.tahoehansenhouse.com. Still have questions, call Debbie Hansen at (925) 766-8961

FOR SALE Private Furniture Collection Everything high-end and handmade from exotic rosewood and brown ebony hardwood. An excellent resource for designers and interior decorators. Located in the Mt. Diablo foothills. By appointment only. Call Steve at 925-330-6531

SERVICES House Cleaning Blonde Ambition House Cleaning. Excellent references, Hourly rate $25. Most homes are cleaned in 3 hours. Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or special occasions. All work is done by owner who is a Clayton resident. Call Mary Lee at (925) 522-8079.

HELP WANTED MANAGER, FINANCIAL PROJECT RE investment. Reqd: MBA + 2 yrs exp., exp w/RE/corp finance/venture capital, strategic repositioning, feasibility, financial modeling, analysis, due diligence, mgmt, & entrepreneurial environment. Mail resume: Reynolds & Brown, 1200 Concord Ave., #200, Concord, CA 945204900. No calls or emails pls. Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today (925) 672-8787. Assistant Coach Dana Hills Recreational Swim Team is seeking an experienced and energetic assistant swim coach for the 2009 Spring/Summer season. Contact Dana at 925-672-8645

VOLUNTEERS WANTED Meals on Wheels Drivers 673-0300 or hairbyjim@sbcglobal.net. Anna’s Attic Volunteers Call 674-9072 or (925) 766-5066. Hospice of the East Bay Call Volunteer Dept. at (925) 887-5678 or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org. Clayton Historical Society Museum Call the museum at 672-0240. Clayton Community Library. 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org

Education PH/WC Mom’s Club Preschool Fair . . . . . . . . . . . .370-2446 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .627-2648 Doug Van Wyck - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . .672-2300 Moglen, Betty - New York Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .963-7782 Richard Littorno - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-877-8328 Funerals Neptune Society of Northern California . . . . . . . . .944-5100 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Home and Garden Anna’s Cleaning Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-9466 Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Alise Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .988-9990 Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Floors to Go Danville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .820-8700 Lamorinda Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .284-4440 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Nu Image Painting & Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1777 Pans on Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .600-7267 Son Bright Window Cleaning Service . . . . . . . . . . .674-9455 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Today Hauling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .497-4907 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Welcome Home House Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . .584-5980 Mailing and Shipping The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Postal Annex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 673-5246 Postal Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-9030 Medical Services Children's Dentistry of Walnut Creek . . . . . . . . . . .938-2392 Jenny Chong, D. D. S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .827-5595 Personal Products and Services Beautique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0405 Clayton Mind and Body Connections . . . . . . . . . . .673-0686 Cutting Loose Hair Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .609-8807 Glucaffect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-7608 Just Hair Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .827-4744 Perfect Tan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8761 Quit Your Job & Work From Home . . .877-336-8369 x 4712 Rosebud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-888-476-7328 The Healing Hut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-6710 Yoga Sol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288-9642 Pet Services Aussie Pet Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-738-6624 Cat Hospital of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2287 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Peace of Mind Pet Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9781 Rodie’s Feed and Country Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services 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 Village Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .657-5065 Village Oaks Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .408-371-8770 x 19 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . .672-4433 Recreation Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Diablo FC Soccer Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-GOAL In Shape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-5600 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 x 205 Snap Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0110 Traveling Trainers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6931 Senior Services Aegis of Concord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .692-5838 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . . .524-5100 Services, Other Concord Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .943-0180 Dryclean USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5653 Sho Sho’s Daycare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207-1479 Shopping Cegielski Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-2855 Clayton Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-3325 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Donna's Quilting Loft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0401 Seasonal Reflections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4425 Sonset Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-8200 The Royal Rooster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2025 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840 Worship St. John’s Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .998-8969 Eternal Life Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0295

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Things to consider regarding timing of a home purchase

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REAL ESTATE Some buyers will tell you that the best time to buy is during the winter holiday season. There are fewer buyers looking, so there is less competition. And while the selection of homes for sale may be lower, those who are selling are usually motivated. An added benefit of buying during the winter months is that you may have a chance to see listings while it’s raining. This makes it easier to spot a leaky roof or a serious drainage problem. Other buyers, however, prefer to do their home buying in

the middle of summer. There’s often a seasonal slowdown in home buying activity during July and August. Prospective buyers, as well as agents, take vacations. So this too can be a time when the competition from other buyers might wane temporarily. And, if you want to relocate before school starts, this is the last opportunity you have to make the move. The reality is that homes sell all year long. While there is some fluctuation from one quarter to the next, it’s less than you might imagine. Other factors, such as interest rates and general economic conditions, can have more effect on a buyer’s decision than the time of year. Most buyers prefer to buy when interest rates are low, because it makes housing more

As a new MDUSD board takes the helm, dire budget cuts threaten to decimate the district ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer

After Sherry Whitmarsh, the newest member of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District Board of Education, walked through the double doors at district headquarters and into the board room for the start of the Nov. 9 board meeting, a resounding cheer and applause followed from the several hundred in the audience. With a huge grin and both arms full with binders and paperwork, she took her seat next to the superintendent. Likewise, reelected member Gary Eberhart also received applause. With the recent major election victory for both, ousting long-term member and former board president April Treece, the dynamics of the board majority clearly shifted to that of determination to repair the damage done through a year of contentious and divisive board politicking. A DIFFICULT TIME Board trustee Dick Allen assumed the helm of the meeting and carefully read a statement he had prepared. “2008 was a very difficult year,” he said, explaining the issues caused by the need for desperate budget cuts and the uncertainty of impending future cuts. “These are now late year cuts. It is a huge problem. We had a year of tough negotiations. Contracts were not signed. There was a serious division within the board. We now have a

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new board, a new year and a new opportunity to unify this board and this district. The board members elected Eberhart as board president and trustee Paul Strange as vice-president “We have a difficult year and it is time for this board to move forward together for students,” Eberhart said. TAKING CHARGE Consent items were breezed through with an unheard of – especially over the past year – 50 zero voting, and the board hummed through a long list of items with much efficiency and calm. It was only when issues of cuts emerged that the calm was punctuated by the remarks of Neola Crosby, representing the church community who expressed concerns with “the actions of several of the board members regarding the superintendent.” Crosby went on to describe the placement of three AfricanAmericans in upper management on the list of potential cuts as being a “hit list” of these employees and threatening complaints to be placed with the NAACP. In contrast, NAACP representative Darnell Turner spoke calmly, asking that the vote be deferred and offering to meet with the district to help resolve issues of potentially being out of compliance. “We believe that some of these positions have been targeted,” he added. “However, we have been

accused of using the race card. We have never used the race card.” By the end of the session, the three candidates were removed from the cut list with an explanation that it had to do with contract and compliance issues rather than the not-so-veiled threats of an NAACP involvement. FINDING ANSWERS Addressing calls for management cuts, Superintendent Gary McHenry noted that even if all the management positions were cut, the total would still be short the $6.6 million needed to balance the budget. “We will have to cut from every program in this district,” he said detailing some suggested additions to the budget cut list, including the general fund contribution of $721,400 for all athletic programs and the possibility that all employees take a one percent salary reduction.

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when you find the right home and when you have a high degree of certainty that you won’t need to sell soon. Buying for the short-term is risky, because prices may decline more before they go back up. Should you wait for a better time to buy? It’s almost impossible to time markets. It’s also not easy to find the right place to buy. So, if your finances are in order and you’re buying for the long run, plan to buy when you find the right home at an affordable price. 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.

LOOKING FORWARD On a more positive note, teacher union president Mike Noce noted that the previous evening a tentative contract agreement had been reached which he hoped would be accepted. “We all need to be political,” he said, referring to the proposed cuts to education being suggested at the state level. “This is ridiculous,” he added. In the past, the district has supported the idea of a parcel tax as a means of revenue generation, although at that time the concept had not been accepted by voters concerned about district spending and past fiscal issues. The search for possible ways to increase revenue holds some promise. “We hope that once our district begins to move in the right direction, we will be able to develop some business partnerships which could help in many ways,” Eberhart said after the meeting. “I also believe that there is an incredible untapped potential in partnering with organized labor in a way that would encourage them to help prepare our students for high skill, high wage careers once they leave high school.” Eberhart pointed out that stakeholders should not expect miracles. “What people should expect is good solid decision making. Each and every decision that we make and every vote that we take should move us one step closer to the improving our district.” The board unanimously acknowledged the need to make the budget cuts by the end of February so as to adopt a budget that would be positive.

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affordable. The lower the monthly payments, the easier it is for buyers to qualify for mortgages. We presently have historically low interest rates. All other factors being equal, you can afford to buy a more expensive house when rates are low. That usually means a larger house. If low interest rates enable you to buy a home that will suit your long-term needs, you’ll probably stay longer. Moving less often is one way to save money. As you might have noticed, the housing bubble burst two years ago in our area. Now, prices and interest rates are low at the same time. This is highly unusual and can’t last. So, should you buy now? The best time to buy is when you have the financial wherewithal,

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Wandering through some holiday thoughts With the holiday season rapidly approaching, I found myself spending countless nights wideawake milling over myriad topics. I have no idea what my father wants for Christmas; my economics project unfortunately won’t present itself; and I desperately need winter break to arrive. And I figured after my last column, a lighthearted topic might be appropriate. So I decided to share some of my dilemmas, concerns and thoughts about the holidays. 1. When I was young, I was always excited to wear my Santa Claus hat and reindeer headband to school. However, the day we came back from Thanksgiving break this year, I saw a group of students frolicking through the crosswalk wearing those very items and I couldn’t believe it. I’m all for expressing holiday enthusiasm, but can’t people do it with candy or cards? I can’t think straight when the kid who sits next to me has a hat with bells on it. They can be very distracting. 2. Every year for Christmas, my family gets a 12-foot tree for the living room. Of course it’s extravagant, but I look forward

to it year after year. I probably look forward to it so much because I’m not the one who has to teeter precariously on a ladder to decorate it, but Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without it. Unfortunately, Christmas tree farms decided to raise the price of trees of such height to a ridiculous $300. Don’t they know that the things only last for a month tops? With the economy as bad as it is, I can’t fathom why the people who run tree farms think people can afford a price like that. 3. I didn’t ask for that much for Christmas this year because materialism is beginning to disgust me. I went shopping with my friends in Union Square on Black Friday and I thought that San Francisco was as bad as it gets. When I read the next day that someone was literally stampeded to death in a Wal-Mart in New York, I began to feel very sad for humanity and a little more thankful for the generally kind-spirited people who live in my hometown. 4. I feel inclined to complain about the massive amount of homework I’ll have over the break, but I know that this problem is entirely self-induced.

Page 7

Why not buy a larger home for Christmas? Custom 5 bedroom home

MICHELLE TROSCLAIR

STUDENT REPORTER I don’t want to say that I have a severe case of senioritis, but the fact that I feel compelled to save everything until my precious winter break is a convincing symptom. My holidays will be filled with cookies, mistletoe and essays. 5. I was rummaging through Christmas boxes that were pulled out of the garage and I stumbled across my favorite Christmas movies from when I was a little kid. I was so excited to watch them and reminisce that I forgot we no longer have a tape player, if that’s even what they’re called. And they were never converted to DVD. Technology is stealing Christmas. Despite these few minor setbacks, I’m sure the winter season will provide much-needed respite. Happy holidays everyone! Michelle Trosclair is a senior at CVHS. Send comments to Michelle@claytonpioneer.com

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.

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DVMS takes on recycling project

ROBBIE PARKER DVMS REPORTER Diablo View’s Safety/Go Green Climate Committee has been thinking of ways for the school to become more environmentally friendly. Along with the cafeteria’s new recycling bins, the students, teachers and parents would like to make everyone work harder toward not adding to the landfills. This committee decided to look for ways within the school to make recycling more efficient. According to Alison

Bacigalupo, the president of the Parent Faculty Club, they decided that having each classroom participate in this effort would have the greatest impact. However, when classroom recycling bins were researched, the committee found it would cost $15-$20 for each container. With more than 40 classrooms, the initial cost is more than the school can absorb. Along with the classroom bins, the committee would like to have containers available next to garbage cans around the campus. “It is important to recycle because it protects our environment and helps stop global warming,” said Taylor Ryle, a student on the committee. “Everyone needs to help with recycling.” Student Sam Boeger said it’s important for the school to be a part of the recycling effort and for individuals “to be a part of the process.” She and Taylor

expressed the need for containers because it helps others to be more aware of recycling. “If the recycling containers are easily available, people will use them,” Sam noted. Principal Patti Bannister wants to encourage families and members of the community to get involved with Diablo View’s recycling program. The school hopes to raise enough funds to create a program that will be efficient, help the environment and save the school money. As the school reduces its amount of garbage, it costs the school less in fees. If you would like to help not only our school but our environment, consider making a donation. Or you could sponsor a recycling bin. Recycling is always the right thing to do; it is our future. Robbie Parker is a sixth-grader at Diablo View. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com

School News CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL This fall, the CVHS band and orchestra students were recognized for several achievements, both collectively and individually. Thirteen students were accepted into the CSU East Bay Festival Band in November. They joined about 50 other students from Contra Costa, Alameda and San Mateo counties for a day of rehearsals and master classes with CSU faculty and adjunct staff. That evening, they performed a joint concert with the CSU Symphonic Band. CV musicians participating in this 22nd annual honor band were Jessica Untalan, Kathryn Burton, Sarah Moore and Raven Minor (flute); Justin Page (oboe); Laura Mack and Kayla Pedrani (clarinet); Laurel Hansen (bassoon); Bobby Savre (French horn); Cassidy Wallin (trombone); and Steven Kracke, Emily Braunecker and Audrey Cote (percussion). The competitive Eagle marching band performed at the Vintage Reserve Band Review in Napa and the Review of Champions in Stockton, also in November. At Vintage, the band earned first place as well as taking top honors in its division for music performance, visual performance, general effect, color guard and drum major. In Stockton, the band ended the season in second place, narrowly edged out by Roseville High School. CV senior Yanaki Lopez was selected to be the drummer for the Mt. Diablo Unified School District Honor Jazz Band, which performed in November at Diablo Valley College. Nine CV students will be a part of the 46member MDUSD Wind Ensemble. They perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, at the Northgate

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High School Little Theatre. CV musicians in this group are Jessica Untalan (flute); Heather Raymond (oboe); Laura Mack, Kayla Pedrani, Laura Minorsky and Alison Abele (clarinet); Justin Page (alto saxophone); Laurel Hansen (bassoon); and Katie Hill (trombone). Violinist Tiffany Ng was selected by statewide audition to perform with the California Orchestra Directors Association’s Honor String Orchestra. The ensemble performed in San Jose Dec. 4-6. Tiffany was selected last year as well, when the ensemble performed in Redlands. The Contra Costa County Honor Band auditions were held Dec. 6 at San Ramon Valley High School. This selective group will perform in San Ramon Feb. 5-7. This year, Justin Page (alto saxophone) and Laura Mack (clarinet) were selected. Both performed with the group last year.

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Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Join us this Christmas for a traditional message in a non-traditional setting

She lives life with others in mind

Interactive Christmas Pageant, Dec. 21, 11:15 a.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, Dec. 24, 4 p.m.

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5554 Clayton Rd., Concord (in the Farm Bureau building) (925) 524-0295

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December 19, 2008

COLLEEN ELWY

SHARING HISTORY Marje Scott’s vibrant smile and warm personality are a tribute to a century of contented living. And with family and friends gathering to celebrate over several days, Marje marked her 100th birthday recently, adding further memories to the many that she has cherished throughout the years. Born in Montana and coming to California in her teens, Marje has been blessed in many ways and has always wanted to help those less fortunate. For this reason, Marje has been a Salvationist for more than 70 years. “Most people Marjorie don’t realize that the Salvation Army is primarily a church,” Marje shares. “In the 1930s, I attended a service in Oakland and it just seemed like home to me.” Marje emphasizes how important having a religious

foundation can be, especially in times like we all are going through right now. She says things are similar now to during the Depression. “I think that many people are having to pinch things and are affected by the poor economy.” Marje remembers the Depression being a difficult time for her, because her first husband had left her to raise their 5-year-old daughter on her own. “I was living with a friend in Oakland and had to find a job. Every place I went, they weren’t hiring at all and basically would say, ‘go away’ when I asked about work,” Marje says. “I had worked at Montgomery Ward for a number of months when I was in high school and so I applied there even though the woman told me they had no work for me.” To prove her point, the woman took Marje’s application and threw it toward her desk, but it drifted down to the floor. “She didn’t even care about my application. And I didn’t even get up. I just Scott, 100 left it there on the floor and figured that she would pick it up later,” Marje remembers. “But when I got back to the place I was staying at, there was a call for me from Montgomery Ward and they said I had a job.” As fate would have it, a for-

mer co-worker of Marje’s had walked past the woman’s desk and saw the application on the floor. As he picked it up, he remembered Marje from when she worked there previously and offered her the same job. “It was incredible and I gave it all up to the glory of God,” Marje says with a smile. She married Don later on and Marje beams when talking about her son and daughter. In addition, she has five grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren that bring her immense joy. Marje still attends church services and is involved in the women’s club, along with other activities at Marjorie Scott and husband Don Scott in Diamond Terrace in Salvation Army uniform, circa mid 1950s. Clayton. When asked about her secret ‘Well, seeing that I am still here to being 100 years old, Marje at 50, I will go for 100 years old.’ replies with a laugh. “Well, I eat And here I am. So now I am a bowl of oatmeal every morn- looking to go for 105 years old.” ing and a glass of milk, too. But I think that always looking If you are a senior living in Clayton, ahead and having to work for or know of a senior that would like to something is most important. share their life story with the Clayton “When I was 50 years old, I Pioneer readers, please contact Colleen thought that was it and I was so Elwy at 672-9565 or at colleensbyold,” she adds. “I told myself, line@aol.com.

Call anytime: 672-8855 or check us out online:

www.saintjohnsparish.org

Sunday, Dec. 21 Worship at 8 and 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24 Worship at 5 p.m. Children’s Christmas Eve service Wednesday, Dec. 24 Worship at 10 p.m. Celebration of Christ’s Nativity

You nurture the dreams. I’ll nurture the plan. A woman’s list of responsibilities never ends. Thankfully, I’m here to help. It all begins with our unique Dream > Plan > Track >® approach to financial planning. Working with you one-to-one, I’ll help you define your dream, develop your plan and track your progress over time. From estate planning to college savings plans, I’ll design a plan to meet the unique goals of your family. To start a conversation, call (925) 685-4523. Mureleen Benton, CFP®, Financial Advisor 5356 Clayton Rd., Suite 211 Concord, CA 94521 (925) 685-4523 Mureleen.M.Benton@ampf.com CA License #0692378 Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Financial planning services and investments available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2008 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

Church News ETERNAL LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH The church will have an “interactive” Christmas program as part of the service at 11:15 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. Worshippers can be “part of the story” as they are invited to play shepherds, wisemen, angels, etc. during a re-enactment of the Christmas accounts in Luke 1 and 2. Members and friends of Eternal Life will then go Christmas caroling in the afternoon of Dec. 21 at various convalescent homes in the Concord area. A traditional Christmas Eve candlelight service will be held at 4 p.m. Dec. 24. Meanwhile, “The Truth Project” video and discussion Bible study series will be at 7 p.m. Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 7. Participants will learn and discuss a Biblical-Christian worldview. Eternal Life is at 5554 Clayton Rd., Suite 1B, Concord. For more information, call 524-0295 or visit www.EternalLifeLutheranChurch.org. CONCORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The church’s Community Orchestra and Chance Choir will present the “Candlelight Christmas Cantata” by Benjamin Harkin as a worship service at 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. The church is at 1645 West St., Concord. For more information, call 685-5260 or visit www.concordumc.org. CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH The church will have a Christmas Eve service at 5 p.m. It will be a Communion and candlelight service with choir and children of all ages participating. The church is 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. For details, call 6724848.

CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH The downtown church offices will be lit up through Dec. 24 with computerized music and lights that play a 15-minute show each night at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Tune in to 91.3 FM to listen along with the show, or listen to Christmas music from 5:30-8:30 p.m. The office is at 6055 Main St., Clayton. The church offers Christmas Eve candlelight services at 5 and 7 p.m. at Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. The 5 p.m. family-style service will include Christmas carols, a message, a live nativity, a craft and refreshments. At 7 p.m., there will be a traditional candlelight service. For the Sunday, Dec. 28, services, come in your PJs and bring your leftover Christmas goodies, 9 and 10:45 a.m. at the middle school. For details, call 673-9060 HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH The church will have a candlelight service at 7 p.m. Dec. 24 and a Christmas service at 9 a.m. Dec. 25. Holy Cross is at 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. For more information, call 686-2000 or visit www.holycrossconcord.org. THE BAHA’IS The group welcomes all to a talk and evening of fellowship starting at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9. The subject of the talk is “The Message and Messenger of God – Promise of Unity after Chaos.” The speaker is Dennis Pettyjohn, who holds a bachelor’s in theology and a master’s in church administration. He was a Baptist minister for about 10 years in California and Arizona. He now lives in San Mateo County. The event is at the Toloui residence in Clayton. For more information and directions, call 672-6686.

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December 19, 2008

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page 9

Affection, respect and humor for veteran councilmen 2

It was a roasty, toasty evening at the Oakhurst Country Club last Thursday, when nearly 100 friends, family and colleagues gathered to both honor and skewer retiring councilmen Gregg Manning and Bill Walcutt. To commemorate their years of service, city staffer Laura Hoffmeister put together a grab bag of ornaments and do-dads symbolizing landmark moments during their terms. First out of the bag was a small cup of fruit, a double-duty reminder of both the “veggie stand” and the Farmers Market. See Julie Pierce’s story beginning on Page 1 for a summary of Manning’s and Walcutt’s years of

service. Upper left: 1. Councilmen Dave Shuey and Hank Stratford; 2. Craig and Sandy Johnson with Fr. Richard Mangini; pastor of St. Bonaventure’s; 3. Debbie Mullins, Maryann Lawrence, Keith Haydon; 4. Linda Pinder, Joann Caspar, Alice Ponti; 5. Former Clayton Police Chiefs Fred Albrecht and Pete Peterson; 6. City Clerk Laci Jackson; 7. Walcutt in his new rocking chair with a “Clayton” blanket, gifts from city employees and Julie Pierce; 8. Pierce presents Manning with the official buttons of all Contra Costa cities and a gift certificate to the Avalon Hotel on Catalina Island, both gifts from the city; 9. City Manager Gary Napper emcee’d the roast/toast.

Retirement,

TLC calls for residents to help city with recycling CANDACE BASS Special to the Pioneer

A 32-ounce beer can stuffed inside the branches of a shrub growing along Oakhurst Drive. A half-filled plastic bottle thrown along the curb of Clayton Road. A plastic bag caught on the branches of one of the trees near the library. These are just a few of the numerous and diverse examples of Clayton litter collected by the Trails and Landscape Committee chair one day. These items, many of which were comprised of recyclable containers, quickly filled two bags after two walks. They made their way to a presentation at a TLC meeting and how public littering impacts our landscape district became a topic of discussion. “It was depressing,” TLC vice chair Victor Geisler recalls of the litter display. “Cleanliness and presentation are aspects of Clayton which set us apart from other surrounding communities. Having garbage collect in visible areas detracts from these ideals.” According to the Keep California Beautiful Website, an aluminum can will take 200-500 years to decompose, while a plastic bag may take 10-20 years to deteriorate. Such materials could be recycled instead of left to rot in our public landscaping or landfill.

At this time of the year, when gift paper and other paper goods are used in abundance, even more garbage accumulates in our homes and cities. Some of it may ultimately wind up in our public landscape. As a way to prevent ensuing environmental consequences, many communities are encouraging residents to reduce waste over the holidays by limiting the number of wrapped presents. People can accomplish this by giving time or talent gifts, or by giving entertainment gifts – such as tickets to movie theaters or gift certificates. Other ideas include substituting reusable gift bags for wrapping paper or sending seasonal greeting cards made with recyclable paper. Still others are giving to the greater good by making a contribution to a favorite organization or cause. Some concerned Clayton residents have taken that step by making a donation toward a recycling receptacle to be located at the entrance to the Clayton Community Library. Joyce Atkinson, president of the Library Foundation, is a self-proclaimed “big recycler.” She believes having a recycling receptacle near the library “would be a good idea.” Encouraging residents to develop the habit of depositing bottles and cans into a designated receptacle has several benefits for the community. This will improve the library grounds and

Mayor, from page 1 tree-lighting program. We had a great turnout. The park was full of happy families, the elementary school chorus sang beautifully, the night was clear and cold and Santa arrived with a Clayton Police escort. What fun! Many people may not be aware that the CBCA has purchased and puts up all of our town decorations every year. They added another $20,000 in new decorations just for the Grove Park this year. I especially love the Santa sleigh and reindeer on the arbor. Our city maintenance crew helped place the high

decorations and CBCA volunteers did the rest. Thank you to all! Another big thank you must go out to our dedicated city staff. A furnace part broke and it took a week to get a replacement part installed. Big stone buildings get really cold at this time of year, so they have been bundled up and wearing blankets but all worked diligently for a week without heat. As co-chair of the Clayton Counts Down Community New Year’s Eve no-alcohol family celebration we host at the gym

surrounding roadway landscape, where the litter often collects. Additionally, recycling practices saves the city money. Our city is subject to fines if residents do not meet recycling standards imposed by the state. The receptacle for the library will be similar to four recently ordered by the city with state grant money and destined for the Grove Park (which is not part of the Landscape District). Each recyclable garbage receptacle is constructed of recyclable plastic and costs $1,621, with shipping. Thus far, the city has received $500 in donations. Those who make a sizable donation may arrange to have a plaque on the receptacle. Linda Pinder is an example of a resident who has donated in this manner in the past, when she donated a receptacle for the grassy knoll behind Diamond Terrace. Donations are tax deductible and checks may be made out to the City of Clayton. Memo “Recycling Can.” Residents may either drop off checks or mail them to City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, CA 94517. The next TLC meeting Mar. 16 at 7 p.m. in the Library Meeting Room. Residents may submit questions or comments to info@ci.clayton.ca.us. Candace Bass is chair of the Clayton Trails and Landscape Committee. every year, I want to invite Clayton families to join us for an evening of free barbecue, fun and games. It will be 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 at the middle school gym. This year’s theme is “Passport to 2009” and we’ll have a new activity to get your “passport” stamped throughout the event. We’ll still have hot dogs, burgers, chips, etc., the giant inflatables, the popular Crazy Hat contest, snacks and movies. If you’d like to spend an hour or two helping with this all-volunteer, donation-paid event, we’d love to have you join us. I’m looking forward to the next year. You can email me at Julie_Pierce@comcast.net.

from page 1

obligations, Gregg has raised Clayton’s image countywide with his work on regional boards and commissions. He has served on the Central Contra Costa Transit Authority (County Connection) board and finance committee for many years and will continue to serve as board chairman in 2009. Gregg has served as Clayton’s representative on the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan board since its inception and as chair.

ELECTED TWICE First elected to the council in 1990, Bill served until 1993 when his employer transferred him to Los Angeles for a few years. Upon his retirement, Bill was again elected in 2000 and served until this month. He was selected by the council as mayor in 1993 and 2007. Bill has been Clayton’s liaison to the Contra Costa Water District and with our local schools. He too has served many

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Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 19, 2008

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All dimensions of cleaning – that sums up Anna's Cleaning Dimensions. Anna works every job, and her expertise and dedication will soon have your house sparkling. She and her crew are ready to go to work for you, leaving no area of your house untouched. In business for 18 years, Anna is licensed, bonded and insured, and pets are A-OK with Anna and her crew. Anna is local, reliable, efficient and bilingual, fluent in both English and Spanish. She will be happy to give you a free estimate. Realtors and contractors have relied on Anna's Cleaning Dimensions for years to clean move-in and move outs, as well as finish cleaning for new and remodeled construction projects. Whatever your needs, residential or commercial, Anna and her crew will clean it ‘till it shines! Get ready for holiday dinners, parties and family gatherings. Call Anna at 687-9466.

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Holiday time means joy and fun. But it also means a little more work and a tighter schedule. And it’s a big “uh oh” should one of our appliances decide to take some time off. If this happens to you, Appliance Repairs by Bruce, located in Clayton, will be right there to set things right. Bruce Linsenmeyer and his wife Holly pride themselves on their availability, with Clayton and Concord residents receiving the benefit of proximity.

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CD FEDERAL If one of your New Year’s resolutions has anything to do with managing your money, now is the time to get started. CD Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, member-oriented financial institution with a family environment. They have been serving members since 1954, offering a wide range of financial products and services such as free checking, online banking, mobile banking, bill pay, auto and home loans, credit cards, free financial planning and much more. CD Federal regularly offers free financial education seminars to members. Visit their Website, www.cdfcu.org, for a schedule of upcoming seminars and events. Insured by the NCUA (National Credit Union Administration) and

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“They get appointments first thing in the morning or late afternoon times,” which makes his service incredibly convenient for everyone. While he generally works from 9-5, Monday through Friday, he also schedules emergency weekend appointments. “My customers shouldn’t have to wait until Monday to hear from someone.” Customer service is the key to this business, and the key reason Bruce went into business for himself. Holly runs a tight ship to ensure that their reputation remains spotless. “He’s there when he says he’s going to be there.” Making appointments is simple. Call (925) 672-2700, visit http://appliancerepairsbybruce. googlepages.com, or email repairsbybruce@gmail.com.

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ASI (American Share Insurance). Each individual share account is insured for $350,000 and additional insurance is available according to account ownership. To learn more about CD Federal and how you can join, call (925) 8250900, visit www.cdfcu.org or stop by 1855 Second Street in Concord.

CLAYTON MIND AND BODY CONNECTIONS This comfortable little day spa has just relocated to spiffy new digs in the Village Oaks building in downtown Clayton. Come check it out at their Grand Reopening on Dec. 6, from noon-6. CMBC offers a variety of massages, facials, body treatments, foot and hand treatments. David Godsoe and his staff can provide as little as a quick half- hour massage or facial to a relaxing five-and-a-half-hour day package. Remember that a massage is not just for her – it's a proven stress reducer, perfect for this time of year. CMBC is a member of SpaFinder so let those relatives and friends that live far away know they can give SpaFinder gift certificates that can be used here. Drop by for a chat with David about a good gift package or just for a cup of tea. 6200 Center St., Suite I, Clayton or call (925) 6730686 for an appointment or to order a gift certificate. David will happily mail it or deliver it for you.

COOKIES BY DESIGN In 1983 Cookies By Design began the concept of combining two very popular gifts, flowers and cookies into one deliciously, delightful concept ... The Cookie Bouquet. 25 years later, the "original " cookie bouquet company operates approximately 200 stores nationwide. Each Cookies By Design Shoppe across the U.S. offers unique, personalized cookie bouquets, gourmet cookies, and other specialty gifts, all hand crafted with care. Browse their Website, www.cookiesbydesign.com, call one of their trained cookie consultants, or visit one of their shoppes to get a taste of what they can do for you. Conveniently located in the Clayton Station Shopping Center, next door to Safeway shoppe hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mon.-Fri., and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Get same day delivery in Clayton and all surrounding cities. Order over the phone, or stop in, look around and enjoy the aroma of fresh baked cookies daily. Stop by Cookies by Design in the Clayton Station at 5433 Clayton Rd. or call 524-9901.

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December 19, 2008

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

Holiday Sho pping CUTTING LOOSE HAIR STUDIO

Need a fun and welcoming place to have your hair cut, colored, highlighted, or extended? What about facial waxing or permanent makeup or a host of other services? Cutting Loose Hair Studio offers you ten highly qualified reasons why you should stop by: Janice, Danette, Carol, Kelli, Nici, Zia, Crystal, Cassie, Laura, and Vanessa, all of whom will be happy to make you feel comfortable while they dazzle you with their work. Cutting Loose has been around for eight years offering a modern, fun and upbeat place to come and feel pampered. Conveniently located on Clayton Rd. by Bailey Rd., Cutting Loose 4701 Clayton Rd., Ste A, Concord (925) 798-6161.

DRYCLEAN USA Although Anoop and Manjit Cheema have run Dryclean USA for 18 years they still believe in a “hands on” approach to the business. The loyalty of their hundreds of customers proves that what they’re doing is right. “I still personally inspect the wedding gowns, carpets, clothing and laundered shirts,” says Manjit. All work is done on the premises. That is how they are able to provide top quality product and excellent customer service. The holidays are fast approaching, which means it is time to pull your favorite fancy clothes out of the closet for parties and dressup events. Bring in your dresses, sweaters, suits and ties for cleaning. Let Dryclean USA help you look your best for the holidays. The store is located in Clayton Station next to Walgreens. You can reach them at 672-5363.

ing teeth whitening) and Invisiline braces are free. Dr. Chong accepts most types of insurance. The office is at 5167 Clayton Road, Suite E, across from Lucky’s. For information, call 827-5595 or visit www.drjennychong.com.

NON-PRESCRIPTION GLUCAFFECT Glucaffect may help counter holiday indulgences. Holidays spiking your blood sugars? Are you putting on extra pounds as you make the rounds to family and friends? Consumers of Glucaffect will tell you that you can take control and manage metabolic syndrome even in the face of holiday excesses. This dietary supplement was just released by one of the nation’s foremost food science companies, and folks around the community are seeing unprecedented results. The product was clinically tested and found to reduce blood sugars by an average of 30 percent. Glucaffect users also lost an average of 16 pounds. “It’s the first time I’ve gone through the Thanksgiving holidays and lost three pounds,” says Greg Renstrom. “There isn’t a more important time to take Glucaffect than during the holidays,” comments Linda Vance, trainer for the company. “We’re going to indulge, but Glucaffect can still help to manage symptoms and promote weight loss. The idea is to do everything we can to prevent spikes and weight gain.” For more information, contact Linda at 382-7608 or visit FixDiabetes.org.

JUST HAIR CLINIC

Seeing is believing with an undetectable, non-surgical hair replacement product for men and women. Mike and Marc Epstein, owners of Just Hair Clinic are not only the backbone of this interesting company, but also clients. Just Hair Clinic began in 1975, is now in its second generation and is the East Bay’s leading hair restoration company. “By looking better you feel better,” both brothers will tell you. They offer a private, no-cost consultation where they will show you what they can do, both in beforeand-after photographs, and by using themselves as living samples of their work. “There is no pressure,” Marc says. “This is a comfortable setting. Seeing is believing.” In the past this service was largely used by men, however, recent advances in the technology of hair replacement has drawn an equal number of women interested in replacing minimum to moderate hair loss. “Everyone is individual,” Mike says. “We have something that will suit your lifestyle and offer minimum to no maintenance.” The brothers also work with children with medical needs, including hair loss from cancer radiation treatments, alopecia areata, and trichotillomania. They also work with local hospitals. For a free consultation contact Mike or Marc at (925) 827-4744, 2425 East St., Ste 19, Concord or visit them online at www.justhairclinic.com.

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DR. JENNY CHONG Dr. Jenny Chong is one of the newer additions to the family dentistry scene. Dr. Chong just celebrated her first full year in business in Concord, after eight years in an Alameda group practice. She is accepting new patients, including walk-ins, so there is no excuse not to have that cleaning done today and face the holidays with a sparkling white smile. Dr. Chong’s modern office utilizes the latest technology. Her patient-focused approach is extremely gentle, but for the dental-phobic, she also has the option of sedation. She offers both general and cosmetic dentistry. Consultations for cosmetic procedures (includ-

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Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 19, 2008

Pioneer Guide to Holiday Shopping The Holiday and Party Superstore

20% off All Drycleaning Must present coupon when dropping off clothes Dryclean USA. Restrictions apply. Offer good through 2/25/2009

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Come lose weight, gain strength, reduce stress, honor your body. We offer Hot yoga, Vinyasa flow, Core, Power Yoga, Astanga, and more. (925)

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5434 Ygnacio Valley Road, Ste. 130 online store: www.seasonalreflections.com

Guide, from page 11

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MARIO NAVEA GENERAL BUILDING CONTRACTOR The starkness of winter, when we are indoors most of the time, invites a much closer inspection of our living quarters than those bright summer months when we were busy with outdoor activities. Starting to notice all those tiny imperfections? Call Mario Navea, General Building Contractor, for all your home improvement needs. Navea is available for nearly any project his clients can dream up, from general repairs and handyman services to building a brand-new house if the old one just won't suit. Navea has experience with even the most unusual projects; however, his typical tasks include termite

Bird grooming – first Saturday each month. Appointments or walk-ins welcome

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reports and the subsequent repair work, electrical and plumbing, and installing doors and windows. He can also spruce up your home's landscaping with retaining walls, retrofitting, and replacing foundations. Or, have him build a beautiful new patio or deck on which to enjoy the frosty winter mornings and coming spring. Mario Navea works all over the Bay Area. Lic. #: 672628. Call (925) 673-5260 or email Mario@marionavea.com today.

Office in Pleasanton, CA. New York Life Insurance Company, a Fortune 100 company founded in 1845, is the largest mutual life insurance company in the United States and one of the largest life insurers in the world. New York Life has the highest possible financial strength ratings from all four of the major credit rating agencies. Visit New York Life’s Web site at www.newyorklife.com for more information. (925) 963-7782.

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Betty Lou Moglen has been elected a member of the 2008 Chairman’s Council of New York Life Insurance Company. Members of the elite Chairman’s Cabinet rank in the top three percent of New York Life’s elite sales force of approximately 11,000 licensed agents. As a Chairman’s Council member, she was invited to attend the Chairman’s Council meeting in Madrid, Spain. Ms. Moglen has been a New York Life agent since 1983, and is associated with New York Life’s East Bay General

The winter months are a great time to reevaluate your home’s landscaping. You’ll have plenty of time to plan and plant your new grasses, trees and shrubs before the blistering heat of the summer reeks its havoc. To redesign your yard, call Concord native Boyce Nichols of Nichols Landscape. Nicholas has been serving Concord for over twenty years, first learning the business from his older brother, then striking out on his own. “We specialize in any kind of installation, including sod installation and plantings,” says Nichols.

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“We can install pavers, concrete, patios, arbors, decks, sprinkler systems, low-voltage lighting, or retaining walls. We can also do awesome stuff like waterfalls and bridges.” For a free estimate or to reserve Nichols and his team, call (925) 672-9955, email Nicholslandscape@msn.com, or visit nicholslandscape.com. A complete photo gallery is available to peruse online.

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OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB If you are looking for a country club that has it all, Oakhurst is a great choice. Tucked into Clayton hills shared with grazing cows, Oakhurst Country Club looks out over Mt. Diablo and the Clayton valley. The views are breathtaking. The family oriented club has something that will appeal to every member of your family including many youth programs,

Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer 30 year Clayton residents Office: (925) 672-2700 Cell: (925) 956-8605 State of California B.E.A.R

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Nu Image Painting and Construction of Clayton offers the highest in work quality backed by twenty-two years of experience and references that will totally impress you that you won’t have to ask for. “I have a crew that specializes in high end kitchen and bath remodeling, as well as high end finish work,” says owner, Michael Reilly. “We cater to people with very high standards and expectations because that is the way I am. I have high expectations.” Nu Image offers a complete turnkey operation. “Since I can do all my design work, and installs, it cuts out any delays,” Reilly says. “This reduces the overall cost of the job and also shortens project completion time which means greater savings to you.” Nu Image Painting and Construction serves Walnut Creek, Clayton, San Ramon, Alamo, Danville, Pleasanton, Orinda, and Lafayette. Contact Nu Image Painting and Construction at (925) 672-1777.

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Page 13

Pioneer Guide to Holiday Shopping Gift car

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For more information, see our Holiday Guide profile on page 14 cooking classes, pool, tennis courts, banquet, bar and dining facilities. And yes, don’t forget the golf. The course is competitive and tough and sports a doublesided driving range within its Ron Fream design par 72 course to be exact. Share the gift of membership this holiday season and spread good cheer. Membership is more affordable than you might think. For more information on membership and non-membership opportunities call Heather Turner at 672-9737 x 205.

POSTAL ANNEX+ Holiday shipping is a last minute headache that most consumers hate to deal with. And who wants to dumpster-dive through spoiled food to find an empty box? With long lines at the post office and the tedious details of packing right, the act of shipping a package can be more difficult than finding the perfect gift to send. You need help, but from whom? Fortunately, the friendly folks at the Clayton PostalAnnex+ located at 5433 Clayton Road are here to take the stress out of shipping. It's like having your own personal assistant. Movie stars have them, so why can't you? They'll help you pick the right box to save on shipping, pack your gifts carefully and give you options from UPS to FedEx to the Postal Service on how to get your shipment there on time and undamaged. Think of PostalAnnex+ on Clayton Road as your own personal assistant during this holiday season! Tel: (925) 673-5246.

SEASONAL REFLECTIONS This big, bright, beautiful, holiday and party superstore in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center has absolutely EVERYTHING for every holiday. One step inside and it’s pure magic. Clayton resident and proprietor, John Sharapata has always loved the holidays and it shows. There’s a year ‘round costume

room with costumes for everyone in the family, even the dog and cat. In just a little over two weeks, it will be Christmas. Stop by our year 'round Christmas room and choose from wonderful custom lights and decorations to trim every inch of your home, inside and out. There are hundreds of light sets. Seasonal Reflections Party Rentals can also outfit your home for every kind of party with tables, tents, chairs…everything you need to make a festive occasion. Like to avoid the shopping crowds? Then shop online at www.seasonalreflections.com. Seasonal Reflections is in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center at 5434 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Ste. 130. Tel (925) 672-4425.

SNAP FITNESS SNAP Fitness has arrived in Clayton! You are invited to join in the celebration of the opening of this beautiful new full-service fitness club. The friendly, professional staff will show you how to make feeling good a way of life—from more energy, new strength, and stronger muscles to improved cardiovascular health. No matter what your fitness level, there is something for you! Snap Fitness is a unique facility that’s safe and friendly, with a comfortable atmosphere for all ages and lifestyles. You’ll look forward to every visit and leave feeling refreshed and recharged. All equipment is new and state-ofthe-art, with personal entertainment on all cardio machines. Best of all, Snap Fitness is convenient— right downtown, with easy parking. And, if you’re a member of Clayton SNAP Fitness, you’re a member of every SNAP Fitness! Stop by and meet the friendly staff and take advantage of the grandopening offers! Located at the Village Oaks Center in Clayton, 6200 Center Street. Call them at (925) 6930110 or visit the Website at www.snapfitness.com/claytonca.

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SONSET FLOWERS Sonset Flowers on Clayton Road will celebrate their second anniversary in January. Already, the shop has become the popular choice for unique flower arrangements. Owned and operated by Clayton resident, Donna Richey, Sonset Flowers has flower arrangements for every holiday and special occasion. They are also wire specialists. Donna personally serves the family who has lost a loved one, making sure every detail is attended to. "At that time in their life, the last thing they need is to have to worry about the flowers," says Donna. Donna has made her shop special with gifts, candies and bouquet items sure to please everyone on your guest list. And for holiday entertaining, Donna and her talented staff will work up a spectacular table arrangements or centerpiece and deliver it right to your home. Sonset Flowers is located at 5354 Clayton Road. Call for your holiday flowers today, (925) 6858200.

Across from John Muir Hospital 2425 East St. Ste. #19, Concord

RODIE’S FEED AND COUNTRY STORE Take a break from the malls and crowds this year with a short, pleasant drive out to Rodie’s Feed and Country Store on Marsh Creek Road in Clayton for some truly unique gift ideas. Topping the out-of-the-ordinary gift list are the exotic birds happily greeting customers and staff in one of the area’s favorite stores. Colorful macaws, cockatoos, parrotlets and canaries are just a few of the exotic birds at Rodie’s. With a staff of seven avian specialists certified by Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council, Rodie’s is the premier bird shop in Northern California. And while Rodie’s is definitely “for the birds,” owners Bob and Sarah Rodenburg have not for-

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Guide continues on page 14

STRAIGHT LINE IMPORTS Thinking about new granite counter tops? There is no better gift to yourself than to enhance the beauty of your kitchen or bathroom vanity by adding new custom fabricated granite or marble counter tops. Granite is virtually stain free and requires very little maintenance. Straight Line Imports is a custom fabricator and one of the larger fabrication and installation companies in the East Bay offering free in home estimating and free design ideas. They stock a variety of faucets, fixtures and sinks at below wholesale prices. “If you are thinking about remodeling or just replacing you counter tops you owe it to yourself to call us. We are a locally owned and operated company. We wish you the best for a healthy and happy holiday season,” says owner Rick Fox. Straight Line Imports is located at 3795 Pacheco Blvd. in Martinez.Tel: (925) 335-980.

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Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 19, 2008

Pioneer Guide to Holiday Shopping Serving Contra Costa for 25 years

Boyce Nichols - Owner - Clayton resident

Staying home for the holidays? Send a beautiful holiday centerpiece or arrangement to the ones you love.

COMPLETE LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION Renovation

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Guide from page 13

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Our caring and talented staff staff can design the perfect piece or help you with your long distance orders. We carry or can send Teleflora, FTD or 1-800 Flowers items. Come in and see us and wire service our gift item sections specialists Open Mon. - Fri. as well.

Patios (Pavers & Concrete), Decks, Retaining Walls, Lawn Installation, Low Voltage Lighting, Dry River Beds, Drought Tolerant Landscaping, Irrigation (Spray & Drip) Contr. Lic. No. 542812

Mario Navea, General Contractor

Clayton Resident

gotten Fido or Fluffy. With a complete selection of Merrick dog and cat food, cozy beds, snug dog houses, toys, collars and grooming accessories, you will find everything you need right at Rodie’s. And while you are shopping for the pets in your life, browse Robin’s Nest Country Gifts inside Rodie’s. Owned by Robin Thomas, Bob Rodenburg’s daughter, Robin’s Nest carries scores of unique gift items. Be sure to see her large selection of lovely Willow Tree figurines, including the newest 2008 releases. Rodie’s is located at 8863 Marsh Creek Road, just past the eastern limits of Clayton. Phone (925) 672-4600. Take a ride out there. It’s well worth the drive.

Help us celebrate the holidays by spreading good cheer. We're certain your friends and associates will share your appreciation for the finer things in life…and that makes this a gift that promises to offer many happy returns.

Oakhurst Country Club is the perfect place to create a lifetime of memories for you and your family - Golf, tennis, swimming, junior programs, and more. There is something for everyone at Oakhurst Country Club. And it's more affordable than you might think.

Wishing you peace and prosperity this holiday season and all year long. If you have any questions, please call Heather Turner in the Membership Office at 925.672.9737, ext. 205 www.oakhurstcc.com We look forward to welcoming your friends and associates this holiday season.

Heather Turner, Director of Sales, 925.672.9737 ext. 205

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Gorgeous home décor is just a short walk away at The Royal Rooster. Find the items you need to decorate every room in your house for your earth-toned autumn or shimmering holiday seasons. Tired of the same old look available in every national chain store? The Royal Rooster has both hard-to-find antiques and custom-order furniture to fit your needs. Not just a furniture shop, The Royal Rooster also sells unique gifts for friends and family of all ages, including the popular Webkinz that the children in your life have been craving. Their French Country specialties include gorgeous stationary and bath items for every occasion, including such distinctive lines as Thymes Bath & Body, Caldrea, Rosy Rings, Root, Mill Valley, and Seda France. Corporate gifts and personal shopping services are also available. The Royal Rooster is located at the corner of Center and Diablo Streets, in Clayton, behind Cup O’ Jo Coffee House.

This holiday season, take some stress out of trying to do everything yourself Today Hauling and Unique Gardening of Concord is available to haul away all of your household, garbage, and yard debris. Replacing the refrigerator? Call Today Hauling! Cutting down that dead tree? Call Today Hauling! Need to ditch all that old junk in the garage so there is room for the car? Call Today Hauling! Today Hauling can also meet all your gardening needs. They install low-voltage mood lighting to accent those beautiful trees and brick paths, create high-tech sprinkler solutions to make sure that hard-earned landscaping lives through the California summer, and can overseed and aerate when the baking sun causes the ground to harden and crack. Available for both one-time clean-up of your yard or regular, weekly or bi-weekly maintenance. Here’s a great gift idea. How about six-months of yard maintenance for the “honey-do” in your life? For all your hauling and gardening needs, call (925) 497-4907 or email todayhauling@yahoo.com.

In these uncertain times, Travis Credit Union puts their members first, doesn't take excessive risks and is well capitalized to weather tough times. If you're concerned about the ownership changes within the banking industry, become a memberowner at Travis Credit Union. TCU is one of the largest credit unions in California and has been financially safe and sound since 1951. At TCU, customers' savings are federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government through the National Credit Union Administration. TCU has money to lend for homes, vehicles and more. So stop worrying and take action by becoming a member-owner of Travis Credit Union. Everyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Contra Costa County is eligible to join. Certain requirements may apply. For more information, call 800877-8328 or visit www.traviscu.org.

TIM'S HOME IMPROVEMENT Tim's Home Improvements focuses on all phases of remodeling and construction. With 30 years of experience and quality craftsmanship, many families now enjoy their beautifully remodeled kitchens, bathrooms and spacious room additions. Tim and his crew also enjoy working outdoors. Over the years, they have built many decks, trellis', gazebos, and patio covers for home owners to enjoy both indoor and outdoor living and entertainment. Add character to your home by adding crown molding, baseboard, tile work, painting, entertainment centers or energy saving windows and doors to enhance the look of your home. Now is an excellent time to call us for a free estimate. Office (925) 672-9471 or Cell (925) 3247408. Ask for Tim.

TRAVELING TRAINERS Nothing beats stress like a great physical workout. But with the holidays coming and the bad weather approaching, the trips to the gym are usually the first casualty. “If only I had a gym in my house,” you wish. Well, Ilima Heuerman is about to grant that wish. Traveling Trainers will bring the gym to you. Yes, that means house calls. Now there are “no more excuses.” One-on-one instruction or buddy training available. Need nutrition or dietary planning? Ready to learn about Body Detox and it's amazing benefits? Ilima will have you feeling stronger and renewed in no time. How about a Traveling Trainers gift certificate for that really special someone in your life? So, turn away from the computer, get up from the desk and call Traveling Trainers to bring your personal trainer right to your house. Call today (925) 890-6931.

YOGA SOL Yoga Sol of Concord has a new location in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center. The new space includes a retail store where patrons can purchase their yoga supplies before and after class. This month, save $10 off any purchase of $50 or more. Yoga Sol offers classes in Hot Yoga, Pilates, Vinyasa Flow, Meditation, Kripalu, and more from 8 different instructors. “All of the classes are beginner-friendly,” says owner Tara Clay. “We really cater to the individual. It doesn’t matter how many years someone has studied yoga. We make pose modifications. We try to make each person feel as though they had a private class.” Come experience the physical benefits of yoga, including relief of back pain, stress, and sleep disorders, while losing weight and gaining strength and flexibility. Visit yogasol.net or call (925) 288-9642 for more information. Local residents get their first class free!

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December 19, 2008

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 15

Luncheon kicks off Children’s Hospital Magnolia Branch NICCI SHIPSTEAD Clayton Pioneer

The new Magnolia Branch supporting Children’s Hospital and Research Center in Oakland produced its first fruit with a successful fund-raising event on Dec. 6. The day included a luncheon, raffle and guest speaker Ashley Barrows at the Pavilion Restaurant. The Children’s Hospital branches are a non-profit network of volunteer women auxiliaries providing nearly 100 years of service as hospital advocates. They have raised millions of dollars for new programs and ongoing support for every department and division at the hospital. The branches have developed creative and enjoyable ways to bring people together in support of the hospital’s mission. The Magnolia Branch began to bud in the hearts of Lori Hagge and Kelly Bloat after inviting a guest speaker to their Circle of Friends meeting in the Crossings neighborhood of Concord. With the passing of her husband in June, Hagge has thrown her time and dedication toward forming a branch for the Clayton, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez and Walnut Creek area. She and co-chair Bloat formed the Magnolia Branch in August. “The Rowan Branch, centered in Danville, has provided so much support and guidance,” said Hagge. “They provided some of the raffle prizes for today.” Hagge hopes to organize annual events as popular as the Rowan Branch’s Gala des Enfants and Rubber Ducky Derby, which earn more than $350,000 each year in support

of Children’s Hospital and Research Center Oakland. At the luncheon, Barrows shared her experience and gratitude for Children’s Hospital in treating her son Ethan, who was diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma, a childhood cancer with a 30 percent survival rate. “I was mind-numbingly petrified, trying to remember how to breathe,” Barrows recalled of her first trip to Children’s and learning of Ethan’s diagnosis. As fate would have it, Barrows had resigned from her career as a librarian to be home with her two boys and worked her last day just prior to Ethan’s hospital admission. “I saw a practical application of algebra as nurses calculated the nine IVs of medication and fluid into my 18-month-old. I made it my new full-time job acquiring pediatric nursing skills when Ethan returned home,” said Barrows. All the while, Barrows tried to maintain a “normal life” for her family. “Don’t all moms keep a suitcase with five days worth of clothes for herself and her toddler by the front door?” According to Barrows, the staff and employees at Children’s strive to connect with the child and family. “When they ask how you are, it is duly noted.” She wears a long strand of beads – each representing a day of Ethan’s chemotherapy. Ethan is now doing well, in remission for 15 months. “I hope you never need Children’s Hospital,” said Barrows, “but if you do, it’s a wonderfully supportive place.” The Magnolia Branch luncheon generated new members, raffled 29 prizes and served lunch to more than 40 guests. Pavilion Restaurant owners

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Hamid and Afsoon Shahrodizadh made a donation of proceeds from the lunch to the Magnolia Branch. Donations from the branches provided major seed money for Children’s Family Resource and Education Center. Developed 10 years ago, it has become, in a sense, the hospital’s “living room” – a place for families to meet other families, acquire resources, relax and connect with the outside world while their child is hospitalized. From 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

André Gensburger/Clayton Pioneer

MIKE MONAHAN, LEFT AND SABRINA MONAHAN, RIGHT, get Derek and Ananda Clarke started on the new equipment at SNAP Fitness in the Village Oaks Building, downtown Clayton.

twice a day, said she feels better when she is pushing herself. “I want our customers to have a good experience here.” According to Mike, one of the benefits is that members have access to any SNAP cen-

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Saturday, Jan. 10, there will be a grand opening celebration for Children’s Specialty Care Walnut Creek at 2401 Shadelands Dr., Walnut Creek. For Magnolia Branch membership, meeting, and donation information, contact Lori Hagge at 8275674 or lori@lorihagge.com or Kelly Bloat at 682-0302 or kbloat@finsvcs.com. Learn more about the branches at www.childrenshospitalbranches.org or www.childrenshospitaloakland.org/foundation_branches.asp.

ter around the country. While many of the centers advertise 24/7 hours, the Clayton center will be open 5 a.m.-11 p.m., with a possibility of opening at 4 a.m. “It seemed unnecessary for Clayton to have a 24-hour facility.” Even with a slowing economy, Mike and Sabrina believe that while people may be cutting back on luxury expenditures, most are still trying to take care of themselves and stay in shape. The Clayton location offers a lot of equipment spaced comfortably, allowing patrons a wide variety without a sense of being cramped. “We don’t have locker rooms,” Mike said. “Most people live a few minutes away and don’t need to take a shower here.” Instead, the gym focuses on amenities such as large television screens featuring full cable access on the equipment and

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GUEST SPEAKER ASHLEY BARROWS AND MAGNOLIA BRANCH CO-CHAIR LORI HAGGE enjoy the local organization’s first luncheon and raffle fundraiser supporting Children’s Hospital Oakland at the Pavilion Bar and Grill on December 6.

ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer

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Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 19, 2008

Clayton Sports Diablo FC boys win North America Super Y championship

Photo by Conrad Rowling.

THE DIABLO FC ’94 BLACK U13 BOYS, WINNING THE USL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN TAMPA, FLORIDA ON NOVEMBER 25. Back Row: Coach Marquis White, Tyler Sylvia, Mateo Palacios, Carlos Garcia, Nicolas Bob, Sean Hart, Sergio De La Mora, Eli Padilla, Jose Navarro, Travis Volpe and Kellen Simons. Front Row: Austin Gamm, Eric Alman, Conrad Rowling, Brad Alman, Sean Walker, Andy Altimirano, Robert Hines and Andrew Zuniga. RANDY ROWLAND Clayton Pioneer

Two Diablo FC teams played in championship games at the 10th Super Y-League North American championships Nov. 21-25 in Tampa, Fla. The U13 boys became the first team from Diablo FC (and its predecessors Diablo Valley Soccer Club and Mt. Diablo Soccer League) to claim a national championship after several close calls and championship appearances over the past decade. Meanwhile, the U15 girls lost a 2-1 final. The Super Y league is part of United Soccer Leagues that run all the professional leagues in America below Major League Soccer and the new Women’s Professional Soccer league. Two other Diablo FC teams participated in the championships. Each won games but fell short of the semi-finals. A fifth Diablo FC team qualified but didn’t travel to the tournament.

SUCCESS FOR U17 BOYS Coach John Badger’s Diablo FC 90 boys easily won the U17 boys league championship with an undefeated record. Earlier in the summer, they won the U.S. Youth Soccer Association Western Regionals in Hawaii and then competed in the USYSA national championship Final Four in Arkansas. The U13 boys qualified for the SYL North American finals by winning the Pacific Northern California league. They are also US Club Soccer U13 regional champions. They won two straight games to come from behind to win Group D in Tampa. The team lost its first game 2-0 to Mountain WFC of Vancouver, B.C., but rallied Saturday and Sunday for a pair of shutout wins, 3-0 over MPS Boston and 2-0 over hometown HC United of Tampa. Diablo FC 94 next faced undefeated Chicago Magic in the semi-finals. The Magic was the No. 1 boys youth soccer club in

the country, according to Soccer America magazine. The U13 Diablo FC 94 boys went into overtime to defeat the Magic 2-1. In the championship, Diablo FC 94 met Player Development Academy (PDA) of New Jersey. They were tied 1-1 at halftime and that score stuck through the second half and two overtime periods before coach Marquis White’s boys prevailed in a penalty kick shootout. Prior to the finals, PDA has not allowed a single goal in their four games. U13 TEAM MAKES STRIDES Clayton resident Kellen Simons plays outside back or outside halfback for the U13 boy’s team. He was with MDSL for three years before making this team comprised of MDSL and DVSC players this past spring. “We have improved a lot this year,” he said. “We have a great coach and good players from both clubs that made us stronger.” Simons enjoyed his stay in

How best to determine the NCAA national champions? 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. Are you in favor of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) ranking system for bowl games, or should there be a playoff system to determine the NCAA national champions? KIRMSSE: The BCS system relies upon a combination of polls and computer selection methods to determine relative team rankings and to narrow the field to two teams to play in the championship game. But, I think that teams like Utah, which is undefeated, should have a chance to play in a national

championship even if they aren’t “qualified” enough. Meanwhile how can you compare teams from different conferences that don’t play each other? I think we should go to a playoff system with champions of all 11 Football Bowl Subdivision conferences and a wild card. This is gonna happen as Barack has said he will make it so. Now that is change we can believe in! STELZNER: I personally don’t care to determine a college football national champion. Call me old-fashioned or averse to change, but I like a bowl system instead of a BCS playoff. I would even go farther back and reinstitute the more traditional formats that pit conferences champions against each other perennially. Get rid of all these funky bowls that pit mediocre teams against each other just so they can get TV money. (Notre Dame in a bowl are you serious?) Also, I’m against any playoff that would extend an already long season.

Rob Helena

Florida and the competition of the games. “We had to play really well because every team we played was really good and could have beaten us if we were not at the top of our game,” he said. White played soccer at the highest level professionally in Holland and Bolivia. But he ranks what these 13- and 14year-old boys did in this tournament as one of his most memorable moments. “This group of kids was so resilient, and they are not going to get too many opportunities to be on a national stage like this,” White said. White, who was instrumental in the merger between MDSL and DVSC, believes this team and this championship is the product of bringing strong players together from the two clubs for the good of the community. “This is what we envisioned when we began the process,” White added. “I anticipate the club will go stronger and larger and we will have

Leigh Kirmsse

By January, I want to be done with college football and get ready for the NFL playoffs and the Super Bowl. MERRIGAN: There is a lot of history behind the BCS ranking system. In the past decade, many changes and adjustments have been made to try to get it right. That being said, I am in favor of keeping the ranking system even though it is rather confusing to most people, college football addicts or not. It’s a good way for the best teams in the country to vie for the top spot as the NCAA national champions. SNYDER: Just when things couldn’t get worse than the BCS system, we have a three-way tie for first place in the Big 12 South. It comes down to the fifth tie breaker and the winner is determined by the teams’ BCS standings. As a result of this wonderful system, Oklahoma gets a shot at the national championship even though they were beat by Texas during the season. This BCS system is not the best way to pick a champion. We need a playoff. Since Congress is done solv-

Deanna Merrigan

more success in the future.” The Diablo U14 boys will be back in action in the spring, hoping to add a CYSA State Cup title to their resume. STRONG SEASON FOR FC 92 The Diablo FC 92 girls won two and drew one to capture U15 Group B. They started with a 1-1 draw against Coastal WFC of British Columbia, then beat Rage SC of Pennsylvania 4-2 and blanked Canadian entry Ottawa Fury 1-0. Coach Richard Weiszmann’s U15 girls shut out Quickstrike FC of New York 2-0 in their semi-final game and squared off with Southern California power Arsenal FC in the finals. They lost a 2-1 thriller for the championship. The 92 girls won more games than any Diablo FC team in Super Y-League Pacific Northern California season but finished second. They received an at-large berth to the SYL North American finals and made the most of it, advancing

Tina Rafallo

ing the financial crisis, they should have a lot of time on their hands to figure out a playoff system. After all, they spent hoards of taxpayer money investigating steroids in baseball instead of overseeing and regulating the federal programs, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which were busy making ridiculous loans. RAFALLO: I like the idea of a playoff system with the top 8 or 10 teams going 1 vs. 10, 2 vs. 9, etc. Then have semis and a national championship game. The playoff games will surely generate enough revenue to keep most everyone happy. But here’s the problem. Do you keep the first four bowl games at their current locations and rotate the national championship game? What happens to home field advantage and revenue for the colleges and their towns earning the right to be at the games? I think the BCS has tried hard to come up with a fair and equitable system and, for the most part, it’s turned out pretty good. USC vs. Texas in 2006 was one of the best college football games to watch in a long time.

to the Final Four among the 16 Tampa entrants. The U13 Diablo FC 94 girls, coached by Brazilian legend and World Cup star Sissi, missed advancing to the semis by one point. Diablo FC defeated Coastal WFC of British Columbia 2-1 in Monday’s consolation round after a 1-1-1 record. That included a 3-1 victory over MPS Boston, a 1-0 loss to Washington Freedom and a 1-1 draw with Atlanta Fire United. Atlanta earned the semifinals berth out of their Group B by drawing Sunday’s game with Diablo FC, which need a win to advance. The fourth Diablo FC team in Tampa was Coach Jon Bernal’s U15 boys, Diablo FC 92. They started with a 1-1 draw with Toronto Lynx Jrs., then lost back-to-back games to Group D winner West Coast FC of Southern California 2-0 and Sunrise SC of Florida 3-1. Diablo defeated Abbotsford Mariners of British Columbia 32 Monday in their final game.

Chris Snyder

Ralph Stelzner

If it weren’t for the BCS rankings, that game wouldn’t have happened. For now, the system seems to be working but I think things will change when ESPN get the television rights in 2010. It’s all about the Benjamins. HELENA: I’m against the BCS format because it’s subjective in nature, much like figure skating and gymnastics. It’s not clear who the two best teams are because they’re selected subjectively (reputation of team, conference and big school money). It also eliminates the big upset or the “feel good story” because good teams from lesser regarded conferences are not seriously considered. In most sports, playoffs make teams beat other good teams to earn spots in the championship game. Unfortunately, logistics, big money and the Russian judge make it impossible to have a “real” college football championship game. Are you a sports junkie? If you are opinionated and interested in becoming a panelist for the Speaking of Sports feature, contact us at sports@claytonpioneer.com.

December 19, 2008

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Sports

Page 17 Les 10 m s than from inute Cla s yton

tion neer & ift Men ear g t! Pio B n a o t i Clay e a Build tient vis a v i p rece ith new w card

Kohler signs letter of intent to row at Cal RANDY ROWLAND Clayton Pioneer

Kara Kohler of Clayton has long dreamed of participating in sports at the Division I level while getting a Cal education. But as one of the top swimmers in the area, she never anticipated that the opportunity would present itself in a sport other than swimming. Kohler, a senior at Clayton Valley High school, signed a letter of intent on Nov. 14 to attend UC Berkeley on a women’s crew (rowing) scholarship. She has never participated in rowing before and learned of the opportunity by chance. During a camping trip this past summer, she met a family associated with Cal rowing. After researching the sport and the requirements, she felt it was an avenue for her to pursue. She contacted the Cal Athletic Department and was put in touch with Sarah Nevin, coach of the novice team (think junior varsity). She arranged a recruiting trip to Cal, which consisted of a day of immersion in the program with team members Brittany Santucci and Taylor

Christiansen. From the moment she arrived on campus in October, Kohler felt it was a good fit. She stayed in a dorm and began her day with a 5 a.m. training session at Briones Reservoir near Orinda. She

Photo by Mike Kohler.

CLAYTON’S KARA KOHLER celebrates her letter of intent at Cal.

returned to campus with the other team members, had breakfast and then attended a physiology class in a lecture hall. “That was overwhelming – there were so many students in the class,” said Kohler. “But it

was fun to experience.” She then toured the campus with coach Sarah Puddicome. Kohler had lunch with women’s crew head coach Dave O’Neil in the faculty club. They discussed her interest in the program and her experience that day before watching the novice practice and the workout on the erg machines – which are simulated rowing machines. About a week later, O’Neil called to discuss Kohler coming to Cal. Kohler was still looking at swimming options and had received scholarship offers from Fresno State, the University of Nevada-Las Vegas and UC Santa Barbara. But when she received a partial scholarship offer to come to Cal next fall, it was an easy decision. “To participate in a Division 1 program at that level is what I’ve always dreamed of, even if it is not swimming,” she said. Kohler believes her experience in the pool will translate well to her new sport. “I think the training I am doing will really help me. There is a lot that crosses over and I am used to the early training and twice a day practices,” she said. At UC Berkeley, Kohler will be alongside some of the best

college rowers in the country, including athletes who attended the Olympic trials. The coaches believe she will pick up the sport quickly because of her athletic ability. “Our team looks for athletes who work hard and have a great attitude,” O’Neil said. “Kara is a great kid and terrific athlete, and the time she has spent in the pool will directly translate to success on the water.” Kohler will continue to swim with the Crow Canyon Sharks and at Clayton Valley. She hopes to capture a North Coast Section title next spring and participate in the sectionals. Kohler is planning to take general education courses and possibly go into nutrition. She is grateful to be participating in a sport at the major college level. “I never thought I could go there, but it made all my hard work worth it,” she said. “If I didn’t do swimming, I would have never had this opportunity.” “Kara’s great efforts in the pool and classroom have been rewarded in a big way and she is a credit to the program,” added Sharks’ co-head coach Dan Cottam.

Oakhurst golfers take on Tahoe challenge MIKE METZ Special to the Pioneer

Twenty members of Oakhurst Country Club traveled to the north shore of Lake Tahoe in September to compete in the seventh annual M&M Tahoe Classic golf tournament. This “just for fun” match play event was started in the fall of 2001 by Clayton residents Mike Banducci and Mark Riley as a way to get a group of friends to take their weekly competitive golf spirit on the road. What started as a trip with 12 golfers has grown to 20 participants split into two teams. This year, Jay Polshuk and Jim Linck were the captains. Day one’s foursome matches found Team Polshuk taking a 3-2 lead on the links at Old Greenwood. With 10 points on the line for Saturday’s singles matches at Tahoe Donner, anything was possible. Ultimately, Team Linck was unable to make up the difference and went down 3.5-6.5. Team Polshuk won the overall 2008

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event by a commanding point total of 9.5-5.5. During this year’s post tournament award ceremony, Mike Metz won Lowest Net. The Most Improved, “Johnny-onthe-Spot” award was given to

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 19, 2008

Clayton Sports Outgoing MDSA board members celebrated RANDY ROWLAND Clayton Pioneer

It was a bittersweet and emotional evening for four long-serving board members of the Mt. Diablo Soccer Association (MDSA) as they were recognized at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner last month. Many volunteer coaches and referees attended the dinner, wishing good luck to Joe Hull, regional commissioner; Kurt Ecklin, assistant regional commissioner, Clayton resident Rick Purser, referee administrator; and John Kallas, assistant referee administrator. Incoming regional commissioner J.C. Araujo thanked Hull and Ecklin for their service. “The league is at a very good place, and I look forward to carrying on what they have accomplished,” he said. The local recreation youth league serves children 6-18 in Clayton and eastern Concord. The league is affiliated with the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO). Under the leadership of Hull and Ecklin, the league grew from less than 1,200 players to a record 1,316 kids this fall. This fall season, there were 740 regular season games, with183 registered coaches and 56 registered referees. Hull began the evening by recognizing the special contributions volunteers make to a youth organization. “This league would not be where it is

today if it were not for all of you,” Hull told the crowd. Ecklin worked hand-in-hand with Hull in taking on the challenges of a growing league and making decisions that would affect hundreds of players. “Working with Joe has been incredible,” Ecklin said. “Everything he did from beginning to end was for the benefit of the kids.” The two saw the league lose many players to the Mt. Diablo Soccer League (MDSL). But they have stabilized the organization and seen it grow in each of the years they have been there. They also improved the relationship between MDSA and MDSL and now Diablo FC. Likewise, Purser and Kallas have overseen a dramatic growth in the referee program. Becoming a certified referee is a daunting task – especially faced with the second guessing of coaches and parents.

This year, they covered at least one referee spot in each of the 740 games and usually had two to three refs per game. For the first time, MDSA allowed youth referees to officiate games this year. “They did a great job, and it was a positive development,” Purser said. Micki McCabe Walls of Clayton was honored with the referee of the year award. Purser said Walls “exemplifies the spirit of AYSO – having a great attitude, being fair, consistent and always smiling.” Walls began refereeing to help her daughters’ U6 and U10 teams several years ago. She found it challenging and fun, so she continued. “It is a great way to keep in shape,” Wall noted. Another Clayton resident, Eric Dennis, was recognized for officiating 98 games this season. Dual coach of the year honors went to Steve Mitolo and Clayton resident Al Raymond.

They both led U19 girls teams and have been involved with the organization for many years. Perhaps the biggest ovation went to Franco Brunamonti, who received the first MDSA lifetime achievement award. Since 1993, Brunamonti has either been involved as a volunteer on the coaching or refereeing side. He was clearly genuinely touched by this honor and plans to continue volunteering despite not having any kids in the league. For 2009, Elias Haddad and Steve Apana will share assistant RC duties; Dan Heinz will remain treasurer; Roland Engle will move into the risk management/safety director position; Pat Healy will remain as coach administrator; Mas Morimoto is the new referee administrator; Debbie Bluth will stay on as secretary; and Tracie Macedo will continue as the child volunteer protection advocate.

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Sports Shorts CVHS 50th Anniversary celebrations continue with the Annual CVHS Alumni Women’s Soccer Game, Sat., Jan. 3 at 1 p.m. at CVHS Gonsalves Field. BBQ to follow the game. For more info, go to jnicknich@aol.com.

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THE DFC RUSH GIRLS U16 DIVISION took first place in their division at the Annual Spookfest Tournament, Oct. 25 and 26 in Fort Bragg. Dressed as GI Janes, the girls not only looked intimidating, but they beat back their competition in all four games; 7:0, 4:2, 1:0 and 3:0. The team took a little time out at the tournament to catch up on local news in the Pioneer. Back row: Michaela Alvers, Cara Vereschagin, Brooke Zwald, Kara Erdiakoff, Shelby McCoy, Morgan Connelly, Miranda Lutz, Laura Pargett and Alissa Jones; Front row: Maddy Venturino, Shannon Hourihan, Nikki Cienfuegos, Janel Guzman, Ali Roberts, Erin Repp and Becca James.

Snap, from page 15 absolute cleanliness. “Having a clean facility is important,” he noted. “It is the No. 1 factor that will keep people coming.” “And the friendly atmosphere,” Sabrina said. Personal trainers are also available. “And for people with health concerns,” Mike said, “especially in the evenings, we offer a panic alarm that you

wear around your neck.” Derek Deavenport and Ananda Clarke, both from Clayton, just joined SNAP Fitness. “We were looking for a gym,” Derek said, “and this one is great.” “It’s close by and convenient,” Ananda added. “I love the TVs on the cardio equipment.”

“The price was also good,” Derek said, explaining that the price was lower than a nearby gym where he had been a member. “This is so much better.” As the parents of three children, Mike and Sabrina enjoy an active lifestyle, including boating on the Delta along with Mike coaching baseball. That level of activity comes across in their personalities and their excitement at opening the new facility.

The duo has plans to open another two locations in the next few years. Enjoying what they see as the quality of life in Clayton and the potential to have a local business that is community-oriented as well as healthy, Mike and Sabrina look forward to welcoming patrons ready to get in shape “in a snap.” For more information, contact Mike and Sabrina at 693-0110 or come to the gym at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

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December 19, 2008

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 19

Clayton Community Calendar

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.

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. DEC. 29 FOR THE JAN. 9, 2009 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Through Dec. 20 “Whiskers” Galatean Players Ensemble Theatre once again stages the popular children’s musical based on “The Velveteen Rabbit.” Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $8-$15. 943-SHOW or http://galateanplayersensemble.homestead .com/whiskers.html.

Jan. 9-Feb.7 “Evil Dead: The Musical”

Jan. 10 Stars to the Rescue A fund-raiser for Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. Includes Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock from Air Supply, Tony Orlando, Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters. 6:45 p.m., Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $50-$300. 943-SHOW or www.arf.net.

AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Community Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. 673-0659 or www.claytonlibrary.org.

A holiday favorite, brimming with music and dance, special effects, scary ghosts and old-fashioned storytelling. Center Rep, Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW or www.lesherartscenter.

Through Dec. 31 Bookmark Design Contest

The heartwarming production is based closely on Frank Capra’s movie classic and is perfect for family audiences. Features Clayton residents Lauren Galvin and Adam Davis. Produced by Clayton resident Michelle Campbell-Wiggins. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $15-22. 943-SHOW or www.dlrca.org.

Through Dec. 21 “Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical”

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This campy take on “slasher” horror films features seating in “the Splatter Zone.” No one under 13 admitted without a parent. Willows Cabaret, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $20-$30. www.willowstheatre.org or 798-1300. Over 70,000 members in Northern California

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Pick up an entry form at the Library and draw a picture on it showing what the phrase “reading in winter” means to you. Ages 2-4, 5-7, 89 and 10-11. Winning designs will be printed up for give-away at the library. Forms due Dec. 31.

Jan. 6-March 10 Patty Cakes 11 a.m. Tuesdays. Story time for babies to those 3 years old. Child attends with caregiver.

Jan. 8-March 5 Picture Book Time. 11 a.m. Thursdays. Story time for 3-5 year olds. Child may attend without caregiver.

The Little Sisters of Hoboken take on Tchaikovsky and hilarity ensues. Willows Cabaret, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $20-$30. 798-1300 or www.willowstheatre.org.

Jan. 12 Dan Chan the Magic Man Chan weaves magic, comedy, juggling and dog tricks into a show for the whole family. 3 p.m.

Through Dec. 25 Clayton Community Church Light Show “Music On Lights” combines Christmas lights with holiday music. A free, 20-minute show. 7 and 8 p.m. daily, 6055 Main St., Clayton. 673-9060.

Through Dec. 28 “Mame” “Auntie” Mame sang, danced and laughed in the face of the Great Depression. Willows Theatre, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $30-40. 798-1300 or www.willowstheatre.org.

Dec. 19-21 “The Biggest Gift” Join the fun and laughter as Tucker the elf sets out to save Christmas. Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble, Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW or www.lesherartscenter.org.

Dec. 20 Clayton Books

Buy a Book program Buying a book is a great way to help keep library shelves full of fresh, new titles. Visit the library to see which books they have available for purchase as a holiday gift. As a thank you, the library will place a bookplate in the book, denoting it as a “free2give Holiday 2008” gift from you or in honor of a loved one.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Jan. 24 Caring Hands Caring Hands creates matches between caring volunteers and frail, isolated and disabled seniors for free, non-medical in-home assistance. There is a tremendous need for volunteers who speak Spanish, along with occasional and substitute drivers. A volunteer training session will be 8:45 a.m.-3 p.m., John Muir Medical Center, 2540 East St. Concord. Register by Jan. 16. 952-2999.

Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise

“Wineries by County” author Carol Greener. 4-6 p.m., 5433 D Clayton Road. 673-3325 or www.claytonbookshop.com.

Dec. 23 Karaoke Competition

Meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton Meeting includes breakfast and a speaker. Contact Chuck at 689-7640 or www. claytonvalleyrotary.org.

Scrabble Club

Preliminary competitions for rock category. Winners move on to semi-finals. $1,000 grand prize. Clayton Club, 6096 Main St. 6730440.

Meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. $3 fee per player. Call Mike at 639-1987 or www.scrabble-assoc.com.

Contra Costa Chess Club

Dec. 23-24 “Once Upon a Christmas” Ballet Joyeux’s colorfully narrated ballet follows a young girl as she learns confidence from an elf named Rojo. Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW or www.lesherartscenter.org.

Meets 7-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck's, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. The club is an affiliate of the United States Chess Federation and players of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Contact Mike at 639-1987 or www.uschess.org.

SCHOOLS

Dec. 24 Diablo Symphony Music of the holiday season, including Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite” and the suite from “The Polar Express.” Also the chorus from Liberty High School. 3 p.m., El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. 757-9500 or www.elcampaniltheatre.com.

Jan. 10 CVHS Crab Feed & Auction

377 Blue Oak Lane, Clayton offered at $875,000 If you want gorgeous NEW hardwood floors, design center stainless appliances, double crown molding, paint, AND a NEW yard and patio, THIS IS THE ONE! Take off your shoes and enjoy the luscious NEW carpets, and take in the spectacular vistas from every angle of this approx. 3,200 square foot Eagle Peak beauty -- a perfect 10++

Vista Point Views for miles and miles!

Sponsored by the Clayton Valley High School Athletic Boosters Club. 6 p.m.-1 a.m., Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. $50. Tickets can be purchased from student team representatives, at the school office or at www.cvhsboosters.org.

1119 Vista Point Ln. Concord.

Clayton Community Recreation For registration information, visit mdrymca.org or call 889-1600. Kids Night Out: Bring the kids for an evening of fun while you have a night out on the town. Crafts, games, movies and dinner in a safe and friendly environment. 6-10 p.m. Dec. 20, Clayton Community Gym, 300 Diablo View Lane. $20 or $25 non-residents. Men’s 5 on 5 Basketball: An eight-week season that meets once a week for a game. A playoff will be held for league winner. Call Jacob at 692-2362. Co-Ed Adult Volleyball: An eight-week season that meets once a

The UPS Store Independently owned and operated

week for a game. A playoff will be held for league winner. Call Jacob at 692-2362. Youth Basketball: Games are coached by parent volunteers and refereed by YMCA staff. All practices and games are played for one hour on Saturdays at the Clayton Community Gym. Volunteer coaches needed. Jan. 17-March 8. $113 or $123 non-residents. CPR/First Aid: Learn how to effectively respond to an emergency and provide the necessary care. Participants receive certificates for Standard First Aid (valid for three years) and Adult, Infant and Child CPR (valid for one year). 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 10. $63 or $73 non-residents.

Come & See this unique property offering an eloquent lifestyle, breathtaking views, main house, and separate unit with endless possibilites for home office, bonus room, in law set up, or income potential. PLUS mature vineyard, prod. area, & 3,600 bottle cellar! Incredible value $899,000 Call Helen & Stephanie for private showing.

THANK YOU to all of the families who contributed to our annual Holiday Food Drive! You donated 4 huge barrels of groceries and purchased over $5,000 worth of additional food for the Contra Costa Food Bank! We LOVE YOU!!!!!

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925.932.7329 Stephanie

Page 20

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Wish all ou ing r fe frien ds an line dt peop le ha heir ppy holid ays

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 www.cathospitalofclayton.com 925-672-CATS (2287)

Clayton Resident. Licensed. Bonded. Insured. PSI member. References upon request.

December 19, 2008

Put pet care on holiday to-do list The holidays can be a jolly time to share with your pets and, with a few precautions, you can help keep them safe during this busy time. According to Carolyn Goodrich, animal programs director at the Animal Rescue Foundation, the hustle and bustle of holiday visitors and parties can be stressful for your pets. Monitor pets for signs of stress and create a quiet retreat away from the crowd where they can go to relax. Pets are more likely to escape with people frequently coming and going. Make sure your pets are wearing proper identification or have a microchip in the event that they get lost. Many of the treats we enjoy this time of year can be unhealthy for our pets. Poultry bones can splinter easily and lodge in the throat or stomach. Fatty or fried foods, eggnog and onions can make pets ill. Chocolate and alcohol can cause fatalities in pets as well. Keep candies and leftovers out of reach and avoid leaving wrapped boxes of treats under the tree. Decorating your home for

ELENA BICKER

PAWS

AND

CLAWS

the holidays is another fun way to get in the spirit but care should be taken to protect your furry friends. Poinsettias, mistletoe and holly berries can be toxic if ingested. All varieties of lilies are toxic to cats and should be kept well out of reach. Gift wrapping items, particularly ribbons, can cause upset stomachs and even intestinal blockages. Hang indoor lights with care so your pets don’t become tangled in them. Consider putting an anti-chewing deterrent on

the wires to discourage nibbling and unplug lights when you leave the room. Live and artificial trees can cause a multitude of hazards for pets. Consider placing the tree in a room with doors which can be closed. Use a flat, wide base and cover the stand so pets can’t drink the stagnant water. Avoid hanging tinsel, edible ornaments or those made out of glass. Fresh citrus peel around the base may deter cats from climbing to reach any fun “toys” hanging from the tree. Don’t forget to pick up ornament hooks, which can cause serious injury to pets. If you are considering adopting a pet during the holidays, remember that this time of year can be stressful for everyone – especially a new pet. Keep your home as calm as possible, with few visitors, and avoid hosting large gatherings. Maintain your normal routine

and provide extra time in your schedule to help your pet adjust. While well-intended, giving pets as gifts is not a good idea. Pets received as gifts often end up in shelters after the holidays. Your recipient and their family should be included in the decision. Consider giving a gift certificate to your local shelter or rescue group instead, allowing the recipient to select the perfect pet at the right time for them. Many groups also accept donations to sponsor an animal in the name of a friend or loved one. Finally, make sure you have veterinary coverage in case of emergencies. Note the ASPCA poison control hotline number, 1-888-426-4435. Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 256-1ARF (1273)

Myrna and Ivan are ARF’s adoption stars Myrna is a lovely two-yearold Chihuahua/Terrier mix in search of a family to call her own. Attending training classes will be a great way for her to bond with her new family. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes a seven-week training class.

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Ivan is a gorgeous fouryear-old long-haired brown tabby with the most adorable meow you’ve ever heard! He is outgoing and curious and would love to be a part of your family. He is recommended for families with children of all ages. The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 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.

MYRNA

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) 2561ARF.

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December 19, 2008

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 21

Ouimet Brothers mark 50 years of family service Even after 50 years, the Ouimet brothers still answer the phones on night calls for personal service

Cambria to work. “There was a radar site on the coast that monitored all aircraft traffic,” he said. “We had to ID the aircraft or we would have to send planes to intercept.” Sharon was the California girl whom John met during a basketball game played at the air base where he was stationed. From there, John started mortuary college and Sharon went to business school. They both got jobs at a mortuary in San Jose.

ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer

There are four Ouimets who are happy to tell you about the last 50 years of the family business, Ouimet Bros. Concord Funeral Home – from humble beginnings with a clear philosophy of “people first” that remains true today. John Ouimet, married to Sharon, and Don Ouimet, married to Bea, are the brothers for whom the funeral service is named. Service is the cornerstone of this family business, and it has always been that way. In a time of grief, they don’t want you speaking to just anyone. John, who will be 80 on his next birthday, has seen many changes over the years. It has convinced him that their personalized contact separates them from others in the business. “It really is a ministry,” said

André Gensburger/Clayton Pioneer

DON AND BEA OUIMET WITH SHARON many years of service.

Sharon. “We’ve met a lot of people under very trying circumstances,” John added. “You are there to help them. The majority have no idea where to start. It is gratifying to be able to help them.” “Of course, some days you just go home and cry,” Don said, referring to tragedies the family has seen involving children as well as friends made, and lost, over the many years in Concord.

AND

JOHN OUIMET delight in their

MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

Of the four, three are native Canadians, born in Quebec. Don and John’s family immigrated to New York in 1946. “Dad was looking for a better life,” Don said. “All seven of us survived the Great Depression. Not well – we lost everything we had, but we survived.” Two weeks after John applied for citizenship, he was drafted for the Korean War. Ultimately, he was sent to

LAUNCHING A BUSINESS Things started taking shape at the end of 1958. In partnership with Roy and Ardell Lough, John and Sharon opened the Lough-Ouimet Concord Funeral Chapel at the corner of Grant Street and Concord Boulevard. Roy and John were Air Force buddies. “We had an investor,” Sharon said, “Dr. J.A. Trolan was one of our benefactors. That family was very good to us.” It took about five years to get the business established. Bea and Don came along in 1971. In November that year, the partnership with the Loughs ended and the two brothers began working together.

With the redevelopment of downtown Concord, the brothers began looking for a new location. Finding a site originally zoned for four homes, they began construction of the building they now occupy on Clayton Road. “On Jan. 5, 1985, we closed one set of doors and opened another,” Don explained. STAYING INVOLVED AFTER THE SALE

With no prospects of their children continuing the business and wishing to slow down in their lives, the Ouimets began to entertain the idea of selling the business. “We sold in 1992 to one of the smaller companies,” Bea said, stressing that they looked at the family values and company philosophy. “John knew their acquisitions person, so we trusted his judgment.” The Houston firm that purchased Ouimet Bros., Carriage Services, promptly hired the family back as consultants and the faces of the business with Bea hired on full time. Bea said. “We still represent the business.” The family maintains a high regard for disclosure to the pub-

lic, as well as insistence that preneed funds are held in trust with the option of cancellation. During their time of grief, families are allowed to select funeral caskets, urns and additional components without the pressure of a representative watching over them. During the 50th anniversary celebration party held at Scott’s Restaurant in Walnut Creek, the family received accolades and a proclamation from Laura Hoffmeister, Concord’s current mayor, as well as senior management from their parent company who traveled from Ohio with a letter from the CEO of the company thanking them for their outstanding service. And the family children who were present each carried a rose while the grandchildren had chocolates. The party was a surprise for John and Sharon. “At the end of the day,” Bea said, “you realize that it is not about the job. It is so much more.”And the business is still handled with their noted attention to detail so that you are talking to an Ouimet who cares. Ouimet Bros. Concord Funeral Home is at 4125 Clayton Road., Concord. Call 682-4242 or visit www.ouimetbrothers.com.

If the weather outside is frightful, be sure to protect your plants The chilly nights of early winter can wreak havoc in our yard and gardens. With warm autumn weather these past couple of months confusing trees and shrubs alike, vulnerable new growth can be nipped by dipping temperatures and rainless weeks. Frost protection is a common chore for gardeners. But with a few steps, we can help protect the plants we value and adore. Wilt Stop is a natural, nontoxic product derived from the resign of pine trees. Wilt Stop is easy to find at nurseries and garden centers. The product forms a soft, clear, flexible film on treated plants. This film seals in the plant’s moisture, protecting the leaves and stems

from winter kill. Wilt Stop is safe to use on evergreens, trees, shrubs, flowers, vegetables and houseplants. Apply before the frost for best results. One application will last all season, so you will not need to reapply until late spring. This second application will protect the plants from wind burn and sun scald. It also helps plants retain moisture during periods of droughts. Wilt Stop is found ready to use, ready to spray and in a concentrate for those with big areas to protect. You must use Wilt Stop in combination with sunlight for the product to dry properly. Do not use on African violets or exotic, slowgrowing dwarf plants.

DON’T FORGET CLOUD COVER Cloud Cover is the original plant protector. This familiar product will help seal in your plant’s moisture, preventing stems and leaves from drying out during periods of frost. Cloud Cover is a flexible polymer coating that is great sprayed on ornamentals, shrubs, trees, vines and succulents. For the last several years, Cloud Cover has protected our nursery from damaging winds and temperatures below 30 degrees. It can be used successfully on plants within two hours before the frost. CloudCover is ineffective on hairy-leafed plants, such as lamb’s ear. When applying, both products start off milky in color and

dry clear. Spray the entire plant, stem and leaves. Don’t forget the undersides. Be cautious of overspraying. Cloud Cover and Wilt Stop both can stain metals with fine finishes. Water plants thoroughly before applying either product. GOING UNDERCOVER Some gardeners will choose to cover their plants for frost protection. Garden centers and nurseries sell frost covers. These fabrics can be draped on top of select plants for protection during freezing weather. Frost covers are not plastic; they resemble interfacing sold in fabric stores. They are lightweight and reusable. The fabric will breathe, so mold does not begin, and most

‘Mercy’ a telling tale of tough times in America SUNNY SOLOMON

FOR

THE

BOOKS

Nobel winner Toni Morrison’s newest novel, “A Mercy,” is one of those rare books where, upon finishing it, the reader is likely to find the book is not yet finished with the reader. Its opening lines are both haunting and riveting: “Don’t be afraid. My telling can’t hurt you in spite of what I have done ...” This is Morrison at her visceral and poetic best and this first narrator, Florens, is the voice we hear most often. Morrison writes of a feral America in the late 17th century, a dangerously seductive land in which opportunity and oppression coexist in a struggle to dominate the very land that beckons. Slavery of almost every sort is gaining its stranglehold on a country still up for grabs. It is especially dangerous for women and Morrison has given us four major players: Rebekka, a Europe (white person) bartered away as a bride by her parents;

Florens, the daughter of a Portuguese slave given away by her mother; Lina, an American Indian slave whose tribe was decimated by the plague; and Sorrow, a young slave rescued from drowning, then given away. These women are bound by their abandonment and find themselves as a makeshift family under the benevolence of Rebekka’s husband, Jacob Vaark. Lina is bought outright to help Rebekka, Florens is given as payment for a business debt and Sorrow is accepted into his fold when she, too, is abandoned. Included in this “family” are two indentured men who work the farm. Another notable character is a free black, known only as “the blacksmith.” It is the blacksmith who puts the finishing touches on the iron gatework leading to Jacob’s newly built home, a house never inhabited in Jacob’s lifetime. The wildness of the land and its inhabitants affects the readers the most. The story is told in the voices of Morrison’s women. They move their stories back and forth in time. Each story has its own core, but enlarges our understanding of the other char-

acters as well. Readers may find themselves flipping back some pages for reassurance and to get their bearings, but ultimately we let ourselves be mesmerized, trusting a master storyteller. Rebekka suffered greatly on her sea voyage to America and ironically spoke to the ocean, acknowledging: “you own the globe and land is afterthought to entertain you.” Morrison also describes Jacob Vaark’s travels in Virginia: “In short, 1682 and Virginia was still a mess. Who could keep up with the pitched battles for God, king and land. Even with the relative safety of his skin, solitary traveling required prudence.” Life is hard. None of Rebekka’s children survive. When “Sir,” as Jacob is called, dies of fever and Rebekka falls ill, Willard, one of the indentured workers, thinks of what it would mean for the remaining women if Rebekka died: “Female and illegal, they would be interlopers, squatters if they stayed on after Mistress died, subject to purchase, hire, assault, abduction, exile.” The truth of their situation is voiced by Scully, the second indentured worker. “They

thought they were a kind of family because together they had carved companionship out of isolation. But the family they imagined they had become was false.” The reader begins to understand that whatever freedom they felt was tied to that isolation and Jacob. Morrison has given us a glimpse of what our country, before it became a country and before it was anywhere near civilized, might have been like for all its inhabitants, free and slave alike. This book, both novel and meditation, is a must read.

Sunny Solomon is the BookLady and bookseller emeritus of Clayton Books in the Clayton Station. She holds an MA in English and Creative Writing from San Francisco State University. Sunny is a poet and loves to “talk books.” Reach her with questions or comments at 673-3325.

have draw string bottoms to secure around chosen plant. You can reuse your frost cover in the spring and summer to keep pests off vegetable plants. If you want to be thrifty, use a bed sheet to protect the tender plant. Do not use plastic. The cold will get through the plastic and burn leaves and stems in each place it touched. Whether you use a cover or a spray, water all your plants before the frost touches down. Water is a savior in the garden during times of frost. NON-NATIVES AT RISK The types of plants that are susceptible to frost damage are tropical and subtropical selections. If your plants are not native or grown in comparable climates, they may suffer during our cold, dry nights. Young citrus is highly susceptible to frost damage. Take care to protect lemon, lime, grapefruit or kumquat trees and shrubs. Vines can also succumb to frost. Bougainvillea, Purple Trumpet, Passion, Black-eyed Susan and Mandevillea vines can have considerable frost damage if the temperature dips below 30 degrees. Garden standards such as

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL lantana, sea lavender and broad leaf sage can suffer from frost as well. Gardenias can suffer from cold weather, so can Mexican Heather. Tropical hibiscus takes a huge beating, and sometimes no amount of frost protection will work. It’s the same with tuberose. These plants should be enjoyed at the seasonal level. Gardening is year-round, so there is always something to be done. Make some time this holiday season to protect your investments your plants. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 19, 2008

It’s all(most) about the mint Est.1972

LINDA WYNER

FOOD

FOR

THOUGHT

There hasn’t been a Christmas without candy canes for more than 350 years. The first historical reference traces back to a German choirmaster who bent hard sugar sticks into canes to represent a shepherd’s staff and gave them to children attending long-winded Christmas church services. Candy canes were all white up until 1900 or so, when the first stripes appeared and peppermint or wintergreen flavors were added. Mint itself covers a wide range of herbs – perhaps as many as 500 varieties, including various cousins such as thyme, marjoram, basil and lavender. Mint gets its name from the mythical Greek character Menthe but has lots of other descriptive names, such as peppermint, pineapple mint, chocolate mint. Perhaps the most unusual name is mackerel mint, although it appears that it is just another name for spearmint. The volatile oil menthol is the key ingredient in mint that is favored in cooking, but there are many historical and modern-day medicinal uses as well. The ancient Romans and Greeks used mint to flavor cordials, condiments and fruit compotes. They also used it in baths and bedrooms so its aroma could trump less desirous odors. The

Assyrians used mint in religious rituals, and the ancient Hebrews scattered mint leaves on the synagogue floor to perfume the air. During the Middle Ages, powdered mint leaves were used to whiten teeth. European colonists brought mint to North America principally for medicinal purposes to treat headaches, heartburn and indigestion and as a sleep aid. Today, it is possible to find many other applications – in perfumes, cosmetics, air fresheners, drink flavorings and, of course, candy. It is allegedly a good mouse deterrent too. Peppermint is too strong and herbal to complement many dishes, so we more often find spearmint used in cooking. The tangy, sweet flavor with a cool aftertaste lends itself to both sweet and savory applications, such as crushing mint leaves and using the oil to flavor whipped cream, or cooked into a sauce for meat and used as a base for mojitos and mint juleps. When minced, mint livens up eggs, salads such as tabbouleh and veggies. In Mexico, mint is referred to as yerba buena. This time of year, albondigas (meatball) soup using yerba buena is quite comforting. ALBONDIGAS SOUP 1 lb. ground beef 1/3 c. uncooked rice 1 egg ½ c. fresh mint leaves, chopped fine 1 tsp. kosher salt ¼ tsp. black pepper 2 T. olive oil 1 onion, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced ½ c. tomato sauce 8 c. chicken or beef stock 2 carrots, sliced 2 c. green beans, trimmed and sliced into 1-inch pieces 1 c. frozen peas

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ALBONDIGAS SOUP Dried oregano (pinches) Additional salt and pepper to taste Prepare meatballs by mixing rice into the meat and adding mint, 1 tsp salt, ¼ tsp. pepper and the egg. Form mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and minced garlic and saute until tender, about 5 minutes. Add tomato sauce and broth. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer and add prepared carrots and green beans. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add meatballs one at a time. Cover the pan and simmer 30 minutes. If needed, add a little more water to keep the soup more thin than thick. Add peas and a few pinches of dried oregano. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Here’s a simple way to make box brownies something spectacular. CHOCOLATE MINT BROWNIES 1 box mix for chocolate brownies using a 9-inch pan 1 c. powdered sugar 1 T. butter or stick margarine, softened 1 T. crème de menthe or ¼ tsp. mint extract Green food coloring, if

desired 1 oz. bittersweet or semisweet chocolate 1 T. butter or stick margarine Prepare the brownies according to package instructions, using a 9-inch square pan. Cool completely on a wire rack before icing and glazing the brownies. To prepare icing, combine powdered sugar, 1 T. butter and liqueur or flavoring. Beat with a mixer at medium speed until smooth. Add a drop or two of green food coloring, if desired. Spread the icing evenly over brownies. Refrigerate 30 minutes or until icing is set. To prepare glaze, place chocolate in a small microwavesafe dish. Microwave at high for 45 seconds, then stir in 1 T. butter. Microwave at high for 20 seconds. Stir until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over frosting and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until the glaze is set.

Don’t plan under old rules Since 2001, Congress has passed at least one new tax law every year. These laws have been filled with provisions that phase in or out over several years and some that apply retroactively or take effect at some distant future date. To do your tax planning under the latest rules, call on us. We’re here to help. 700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., #360 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Carol@carolkeanecpa.com (925) 937-5200 (925) 937-5202 fax www.carolkeanecpa.com

I wish you all a warm and wonderful holiday season and happy cooking in the new year! 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

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52 Tuyshtak Court 5946 Wallace Drive 385 Blue Oak Lane 56 Barcelona Way 26 Nottingham Cir 11 Mount Tamalpais Ct 1851 Eagle Peak Ave 6009 Golden Eagle Way 191 Mountaire Pkwy 200 Tumbleweed Ct 1276 Shell Circle 1411 Greystone Ln 108 La Encinal Ct 4008 Hummingbird Way

PRICE $700,000 $600,000 $750,000 $635,000 $616,700 $659,950 $579,900 $636,000 $600,000 $725,000 $412,500 $385,000 $759,500 $695,000

SALE DATE

BED/BATH

12/3/08 12/2/08 11/25/08 11/21/08 11/21/08 11/11/08 11/06/08 11/04/08 11/04/08 10/31/08 10/24/08 10/23/08 10/15/08 10/10/08

2981 2114 3596 2032 2210 2619 2053 2854 2135 2306 1145 1105 2390 2481

4/2.5 3/2 5/3 4/2.5 4/2.5 4/2.5 4/2 4/3 4/2 4/2 2/2 2/2 4/2.5 5/3