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March 6, 2009
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Hoyer Hall honors city’s ‘first family’ TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
This month the Library Meeting Room will be renamed Hoyer Hall in recognition of Bob and Eldora Hoyer. Often referred to as Mr. and Mrs. Clayton, the Hoyers, now in their late eighties, have been at the forefront of civic affairs since moving here in 1960. They were intimately involved in all phases of the city’s incorporation in 1964 and Bob Hoyer was Clayton’s first mayor. Eldora was a cofounder of the Clayton Historical Society and the Clayton Woman’s Club. “They’ve been the caretakers of Clayton for all these years,” says Councilman Dave Shuey. “Even after Bob was off the council, they would come to meetings just to keep track of what was going on.” “They have always been there for the city,” says Mayor Julie Pierce. “Anyone who has ever been successful on the council has been mentored by the Hoyers.”
JULIE PIERCE
MAYOR’S CORNER
Kudos to our city’s maintenance crew We’ve had some really wet weather lately, and I want to give a big thank you to our city maintenance crew. Since they began an annual fall storm drain maintenance program several years ago, we haven’t had street flooding despite some very heavy rains that caused serious problems in neighboring cities. It takes a significant amount of time for them to clear all of the storm drain basins in the city, and we can each give them a hand by keeping leaves and other trash cleared from them. Thanks guys – great job! Kudos also for their proactive graffiti removal. We try to have it removed within 72 hours to discourage its proliferation and to keep our city looking good. If you notice graffiti somewhere in town, let us know so it can be cleaned up. If you see someone defacing property, please call the police and report it. We have an anti-graffiti ordinance and a diversion and cleanup program for offenders who are caught. Residents should also note that graffiti on private property must be removed/painted over within three days.
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
ELDORA AND BOB HOYER, AND A SMALL GROUP OF LIKE-MINDED CLAYTONIANS, shared a fierce determination to control the path of progress in Clayton and a vision that would include a vibrant downtown while maintaining the town’s rural nature.
Desperate times for schools struggling to survive State cuts continue to decimate at the local level ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer
See Mayor, page 9
Police report increase in property crimes Clayton, along with other area cities, has seen a dramatic jump in property crimes in the past few weeks. Car burglaries and stolen vehicles lead the list. “It’s no surprise,” says Police Chief Dan Lawrence. “When the economy gets bad, property crimes go up. Other cities are experiencing the same thing.” Since the beginning of the year, there have been more than 20 car burglaries, reports Lawrence. According to witnesses, the “MO is the same two white males drive up next to the targeted vehicle, break the side window and grab whatever is visible on the seats. “These guys can quickly turn a side window to gravel,” Lawrence says. “And people are
See Crimes, page 4
See Hoyer, page 6
While Clayton has generally enjoyed a higher standard of living, the national recession and the failing of the state budget has prompted massive cuts – directly affecting local schools. The Mt. Diablo Unified School District was already in the process of eliminating $6.6 million from the existing budget when the state settled its budget and forced the district to cut an additional $7 million. “There is simply no money,” trustee Paul Strange wrote on the MDUSD Blog site. “When we are done, we will have cut $30 million in two years.” “These are tough times,” said Bob Dodson, principal of Mt. Diablo Elementary School in Clayton. “We may lose our VP, Anne Eggleston. That is a huge loss.” At the Feb. 23 board meeting, the agenda included a lengthy list of potential cuts to meet $7 million. Included were fourth- and fifth-grade music, high school sports (with the hope that coaches’ salaries could be raised by parent groups), custodial supervisors, custodians and teachers, as well as possible school closures that would save the district
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
about $460,000 each. “After all the cutting already done, instead of investing in our future, (the state is) disinvesting. I am ashamed at what our state has done,” teacher union president Mike Noce told the board. “Once we feel like we’ve hit the bottom, it keeps getting lower,” Dodson said. “What’s next?” “I personally feel terrible for the vice principals who are being teeter tottered with their job security,” said Mary Del Monte, vice president of fundraising for the MDES Parent Faculty Club.
pulling us out of this.” “We’ve already lost our kindergarten class size,” Dodson said. “It was 20-1. Now it is 32 students per teacher for part of the day.” Parent Jeff Hornsby wonders if schools are the proper place to make massive cuts. “I guess it’s time to be efficient now,” said Hornsby, who has a first-grader at MDES and a young son a day from being born.
locally. “Last year, we earned about $75,000,” he pointed out. “Schools have to be creative right now. All those little efforts add up.” Whitmarsh agreed. “Some of the revenue ideas that have been sent my way include leasing out district property, increasing fees for school use permits, holding a Save Education telethon,” she said. “We’re at bare bones right now,” Dodson said. “We’ve gone from one of the best education systems to the
THE CUTS KEEP COMING According to Strange, the school board has few options. “We have to cut. We must have a balanced budget by March 15.” “Everyone is devastated by the cuts,” said Janine Wishnow, who has a first-grader at MDES and two who will be starting kindergarten in the fall. “My biggest concern is keeping class size down,” she added. “I don’t see many politicians
MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY
BOB DODSON is among those concerned about the state’s continued
50th (in the country,)” Noce said. “I’m deeply concerned.”
See Schools, page 4
FUNDRAISING ON A LOCAL LEVEL
Trustee Sherry Whitmarsh said MDUSD needs to develop alternative revenue streams apart from the state of California. “The state continues to devalue education, which will only hurt our children,” she said. Dodson is pleased with the family support that MDES has received. In addition to the brick sale that concluded March 1, the school is holding an auction night on April 3 where anything can be auctioned off, including artwork and hikes with the staff and principal. “We’re also doing a live auction,” he added, “and an e-auction where parents can buy things online.” While he knows that things like this do not compensate for the loss of staff or services, it is a way to bring in some revenue
Church News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Community Calendar . . . . . . . . .16 Deal with It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . .5
André Gensburger/Clayton Pioneer
PRINCIPAL
budget cuts. Here he is shown with second-grader Nick Harrison, fourth-grader Caitlin O’Leary and second-grader Grace Bradley.
Financial Sense . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . . . .20 From the Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Letters to the Editor . . . . . . . . . . .4
Movie Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Needs and Deeds . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 On the Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
School News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Theatre Review . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Around Town The Book Lady heads off to Reno and retirement
March 6, 2009
Upcoming Events
Lundins welcome new baby
APRIL 3-5 CLAYTON LIBRARY USED BOOK SALE The Library Foundation’s Spring Used Book sale is Apr. 3-5 (not Apr. 24-26). The sale begins with a Members’ Only Preview on Fri., Apr. 3 from 4-7 p.m. (Memberships can be purchased at the door) and continues Sat., 10-6 and Sun., noon to 4 p.m. Most books sell for $1. There is also a $3 bag special from 24 p.m. on Sun. The library is located at 6125 Clayton Road.
There’s a new baby in the Lundin house. Clint Alexander joined parents Mark and Michele on January 25. A strapping lad, Clint weighed in at 10 lbs. 9 oz and was 20 ½ inches, tip to toe.
For more information call 673-0659.
The Pioneer finds a ‘Seoul-mate’ in Korea Tom Anderson recently visited Seoul, Korea and took along his Clayton Pioneer. Pictured here, Tom and the Pioneer are standing in front of the Donhwamun Gate, the main palace gate at the entrance to the Changdeok
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$969,980 Clayton Horse Property in Town – This 4BD/2BA 1,936 s.f. rancher near Cardinet Trail offers 1+ acres, a horse facility w/pasture, 3-stall barn & RV/Trailer/Boat parking. Updated home w/country kitchen incl. granite, Décor appliances & island. Formal dining & family room w/stone fireplace. www.5597MorningsideDrive.com
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$849,000 Clayton Peacock Creek – 4BD/2.5BA Coronado model includes a downstairs master suite, master bath w/jetted tub. Elegant pool/waterfall & spa, private, backs to open space. 4-car garage to store your toys! Fireplaces in living & family rooms. Plantation shutters throughout. www.1116PeacockCreekDrive.com
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. Margaret Mead 1901-1978
TOM ANDERSON
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$788,000 Clayton Dana Hills Prime! – Views & property are exquisite! Spanish-style 2,623 s.f., 4BD/3BA has been completely remodeled incl. pool. Beautifully landscaped estate w/Mt. Diablo as a backdrop. Cut glass windows & doors. Stunning master suite w/huge closet & richly designed master bath. www.43MountaireCourt.com
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For more info, call Christina at the Clayton Pioneer, 672-0500.
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APR 25 CLAYTON CLEANS UP Come, burn off those winter calories and help spiff up Clayton at the same time. Join your friends and neighbors and clean up Clayton’s creeks, parks, trails and landscaping. This is a great event for families, individuals, homeowner associations, neighborhood groups and service clubs. Everyone is welcome. Gloves, trash bags and small tools will be provided. Meet at City Hall at 9 a.m. BBQ lunch at 11:30.
headed off to Reno. She’s looking forward to retirement in “The Biggest Little City in the World.” “Reno is more than just casinos,” says Sunny with a grin. “They have a fabulous opera, and I’m going.” “We’re really going to miss her,” says store owner Joel Harris. “People will be coming in for the next five years asking for her.” Sunny will continue to write her book reviews for the Clayton Pioneer.
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It’s hop-pening at the Clayton Community Gym on Sunday, Apr. 5 from 1-3. Games, treats, and hot dogs. The Easter Bunny will be on hand for photos. Sponsored by the YMCA, the city of Clayton, Alain Pinel Realty and Isagenix. For more information call 899-1600.
Palace. Built in 1412 the gate is the oldest of the gates still standing. Changdeok Palace was the main and largest palace of the Joseon Dynasty and one of the Five Grand Palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty.
SUNNY SOLOMON
Local bibliophiles and Sunny Solomon fans gathered at Clayton Books last week to hear “Sunny’s Picks” of the last 20 years. The popular bookseller is noted for her “right on target” book recommendations, whether it’s an early American novel or a contemporary beach read. “She introduced me to Willa Cather,” says Clayton Book’s bookseller, Vinitha Fredenburgh. “She’s the main reason I wanted to work here.” At the end of February, Sunny packed up her books and
APR. 5 EASTER EGG HUNT
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Clayton $965,000 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
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Clayton $539,980 Oak Hollow – Updated 4BD/2.5BA has style! Formal dining room has a boxed ceiling; living room w/vaulted ceilings & inviting family room has a fireplace w/insert; updated kitchen w/breakfast bar - all w/sleek Pergo floors. Stamped concrete patio is lovely. Master suite w/Diablo views. www.1228BuckeyeTerrace.com
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Clayton $479,000 Dana Hills – 4BD/2BA w/1,919 s.f. on .24 acre corner lot just down from the swim club, park & playground. Large kitchen/dining combo room w/Pergo floors & slider out to patio & play area. Formal living room w/fireplace adjacent to dining area. Master suite with his/her closets. www.281MountaireCircle.com
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Clayton $299,000 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 $648,000 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
Lynne offers free Professional Staging on her listings Clayton Resident & Broker Owner
March 6, 2009
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
A dashing rogue and a fiery heroine ignite local author’s career ANDRÉ GENSBURGER Clayton Pioneer
Heidi Ashworth wrote her first story at age 7 under the pseudonym Heidi Viola Rolanda. The short little piece was a huge hit with her mother. At age 10, she wrote her first Regency romance – a 10-pager that she did not let anyone read. Ironically, a miscommunication has this listed as a factual achievement on publisher sites that offer her book, “Miss Delacourt Speaks Her Mind.” Heidi grew up with a mother and older sister engulfed in reading Regency romance and by the time she was old enough, that was what she was reading as well. And why not? The Regency line of romance was more intellectual, catering to unbridled emotions and ripe passions of 19th century England – the time of Jane Austen, without the graphic sexuality found in contemporary romances. “They’re smart books for smart people,” Heidi said. After reading enough of them, she decided she could write one as well. She completed the recently released “Miss Delacourt” 15 years ago. “The book just wrote itself,” she said. “The characters just spoke to me and I wrote it down.” She had fully planned to market the novel, but life got in the way. Born in Campbell and raised in San Jose, she came to Clayton in November 1999 after several difficult years. She married Roy Ashworth with all the joyful expectations
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of any young couple. After their first child was born, Heidi found her life upside down when Michael, now 19, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and later with bipolar disorder and learning disabilities. “We’ve become better people because of this,” she said. “We know our priorities. It’s been very hard. Before you get a diagnosis, people look at you as if you are a bad parent.” Roy had been on the corporate track with a name company. He took the news hard and made the choice to leave that career behind, focusing on the family and, more recently, becoming a teacher at Shore Acres Elementary in Baypoint. “It’s gotten easier,” Heidi said. After five years the couple had another child, Mary, now 14, who was featured in the Clayton Pioneer after winning a Mother’s Day essay contest that made her mother “Queen for a Day.” “Mary had to deal with a lot of the anger that Michael felt,” Heidi added. That was made worse seven years later, when Peter became the youngest child and Mary found herself wedged in the middle. The novel was shelved for almost 15 years before a friend, a writer of contemporary romance novels, submitted her Regency romance to Avalon – one of the two companies still in the Regency romance market. After her friend’s novel was accepted, she urged Heidi to submit her work. “When I pulled it out and read it again,” Heidi said, “I was surprised how much of Roy and
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André Gensburger/Clayton Pioneer
HEIDI ASHWORTH IS ENJOYING THE SUCCESS OF HER BOOK, “Miss Delacourt Speaks Her Mind.” More than 25 fans attended a book signing event at Clayton Books recently. The first novel, released in December, is already in its second printing.
I were in the characters.” After completing revisions and updating the style to more accurately reflect the readership – she had used terminology from the period that needed a dictionary to define – she submitted the manuscript and it was accepted eight months later. The book was released last December. Clayton Books hosted a book signing and shortly thereafter she learned a surprising fact: “The initial print run from the publisher had sold out in the first month.” For a first-time author, that was a testimonial to the popularity of her writing, echoed in the praise from reviews in Publisher’s Weekly and Booklist, as well as reader comments posted on Amazon.com. For Heidi, the best part of
having published a book is the sense of accomplishment. “Even if another book is not published, I can scratch that off my to-do list,” she said. “Of course, I hope there will be more.” Heidi is working on a sequel, tentatively titled “Miss Delacourt Has Her Day.” She hopes to satisfy romantics with an ending she believes they are yearning to read. “Life is good,” she said. “It’s 110 degrees different from five years ago. I’m at a place I doubted that I would ever be. Ginny Delacourt has the same core value I do. She’s not going to let society determine what she does. She’s feisty.”
For more information, visit Ashworth’s blog, Dunhaven, at heidiashworth.blogspot.com.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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R a n d y : they talk to their “Grandma! Hi, grandchild later. how are you?” By then, the Grandma: money is long “Hi, Randy, How gone. are you?” However, R a n d y : they are ways to “Actually, I’m in defend against some trouble and this type of don’t want Mom scam: Try to verify or Dad to know DAN LAWRENCE the caller’s identi…” And so FROM THE CHIEF ty by asking personal questions a begins an old stranger couldn’t scam that has answer. recently been resurrected by thieves in order to steal money Resist pressure to act immediately. Tell the caller that you from unsuspecting victims via will call back on a phone the telephone. number you know to be legitAccording to the Federal imate. Or check out their Trade Commission (FTC), the story before you send money. “grandchild” claims that he or she needs emergency cash to If you can’t verify or reach a family friend (or the caller’s fix a car, get out of jail or leave parents) and still aren’t sure a foreign country. The person what to do, call the Clayton begs the grandparent to keep Police Department for the request confidential and to advice and assistance. wire money right away. Wiring money through No matter how dramatic the story, don’t wire money or Western Union and send a check or money order MoneyGram is much like by overnight delivery or sending cash, with little chance courier. Con artists use these of tracking it or getting it services so they can get your back. money before you realize The FTC says complaints you’ve been cheated. about this type of scam are on the rise. In many cases, the If you do become a victim scammers know the names of or suspect fraud, call the family members and are sucClayton Police Department at cessful in impersonating the 673-7350, 9-5 p.m. Monday grandchild. Con artists find it through Friday. Also report this easy to trick the grandparent activity to the FTC at (or other person) into revealwww.ftc.gov. ing a grandchild’s name or other important information. Information for this article was They take advantage of a supplied by the FTC. grandparent’s love and concern for their younger relative. Dan Lawrence is Clayton’s Police This often outweighs any skepticism the grandparent Chief. Please send your questions, comments or topics you’d like to might have. Victims usually don’t real- see covered to DanL@cpd.ci. ize they have been taken until concord.ca.us
Crimes, from page 1 obviously still leaving their stuff in the car.” All the burglaries occurred between 2 and 6 a.m. In three of the instances, witnesses later reported having seen a suspicious car in the area. Between Feb. 14 and 19, car thieves made off with four vehicles in the middle of the night. In addition, since Jan. 1, there have been four recoveries of vehicles stolen from other areas and abandoned in Clayton. One
of them, a vehicle stolen in San Francisco, was set on fire at the Clayton Community Park, Lawrence reports. The crime wave has police working double shifts during the early morning hours, with officers in both marked and unmarked cars. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to police right away. “The idea is to catch these guys, or at least prevent more burglaries,” the chief says.
March 6, 2009
Letter to the Editor Discovery Trail Crosses California There was an interesting article in the Feb. 6 issue about the hikers that are incrementally hiking across California. I am an ardent supporter of trails in California (I live in Concord) and have been a member of the California Recreational Trails Committee (a group appointed by the governor to support and advise on trails in California) since 2001… . . . To tell this story in a complete way, there should have been some mention of the American Discovery Trail (ADT). This trail route extends from Delaware to Pt Reyes, California. In fact, it passes through Clayton! It may be true that there are some gaps in this trail that require walking along roads. But I believe that is also true of the path across England. As of today, the vast majority of the route is located on trails and sidewalks. You can learn more about it at http://www.discoverytrail.org/states/california/index.html. - John Mercurio Concord resident
Police Report TWO WEEKS ENDING FEB. 26 ACCIDENTS Feb. 22, 7:49 p.m., Clayton Rd. and Mitchell Canyon Rd. Traffic accident, no injuries. Feb. 24, 4 p.m., Clayton Rd. Hit and run, property damage ARRESTS Feb. 14, 7:20 p.m., Pine Hollow Rd., a Clayton man, 41, was arrested on charges of making a false report of an emergency. Feb. 18, 10:43 p.m., Clayton Rd., an Antioch man, 31, was arrested on charges of domestic abuse. Feb. 20, 1:58 a.m., Washington Blvd. and Clayton Rd., a Palo Alto woman, 34, was stopped for an expired registration and arrested for an outstanding warrant. Feb. 21, 1:26 a.m., Kirker Pass and Clayton Rd., a Walnut Creek woman, 33, was stopped for erratic driving. She was driving without a license and arrested after failing a sobriety test. Feb. 22, 1:42 a.m., Clayton Rd. and Lydia Ln., a Daily City man, 38, was stopped for erratic driving. He was cited and released after discovering he had been consuming alcohol. Feb. 24, 10:51 a.m., Clayton Rd. and Main St., a Concord man, 25, was stopped for a cell
phone violation and arrested on an outstanding warrant. BURGLARIES/ARRESTS Feb. 12, 12 p.m., El Portal Pl. Petty theft Feb. 14, 9:21a.m., Mt. Wilson Wy. Vehicle theft Feb. 14, 9:55 a.m., Alef Ct. Vehicle theft Feb. 15, 9:28 a.m., Stranahan Cr. Vehicle theft Feb. 15, 2:42 p.m., Alef Ct. Attempted burglary Feb. 19, 6:45 a.m., Coyote Cr. Vehicle theft Feb. 19, 10:53 a.m., Coyote Cr. Petty theft Feb. 19, 7:53 a.m., Mt. Eden Pl. Vehicle burglary Feb. 19, 8:33 a.m., El Molino Dr. Vehicle burglary Feb. 19, 6:58 a.m., Mountaire Cr. Vehicle burglary Feb. 19, 6:34 a.m., Mountaire Cr. Vehicle burglary Feb. 19, 7:59 a.m., Keller Ridge Dr. Grand theft Feb. 19, 8:32 a.m., Keller Ridge Dr. Vehicle burglary Feb. 25, 6:26 p.m., Coal Mine Ct. Petty theft VANDALISM Feb. 21, 6:55 p.m., Kenston Ct. Times noted are when police received the report.
Schools, from page 1 PINNING HOPES ON PARCEL TAX
With a special election scheduled for May, board members rushed to meet filing deadlines to add a $99 per year parcel tax on the ballot. “That is $8.25 per month,” Strange explained on the Blog site. While public comment on
the MDUSD Blog often reflects a negative opinion about the parcel tax, the general consensus is that there are few solutions that can be implemented. “I’m all for the parcel tax,” said parent Patti Bradley, who has three children attending district schools. “We all know about the cuts.” As both a parent at MDES and a district teacher, Shelley Harrison said she is in a tough position. “I’m totally cool with a parcel tax,” she noted.” We don’t want to lose more services.” Renamed “The MDUSD School Quality Protection Measure of 2009,” a petition is circulating asking for support. At a March 11 event at Civic Park in Walnut Creek, attendees will wear pink arm bands in support of teachers who will be receiving pink slip notices by March 15 – the deadline for noticing teachers in danger of being cut the following school year. Funds from a parcel tax cannot be diverted by state policymakers, and an oversight committee will be established to ensure accountability of expenditures. In addition, the funds cannot be spent on administrator salaries. The tax would automatically expire after five years. “The local education funding measure would assure we could continue to provide our children a well-rounded curriculum,” Strange noted. “That is essential to building a strong academic foundation.” “This has to happen,” Dodson said. “This is important.”
March 6, 2009
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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DID YOU SERVE IN THE PEACE CORPS? The Pioneer is looking for Clayton residents who once served in the Peace Corps. Please call Tamara at 672-0500 or email tamara@claytonpioneer.com.
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SERVICES:
Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today (925) 672-8787.
House Cleaning Blonde Ambition House Cleaning. Excellent references. All work done by Clayton Resident. $25/hr. Most homes cleaned in 3 hours. Weekly, biweekly, monthly or special occasions. Call Mary Lee @ 522-8079.
RENTALS 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 Hair Stylist Station Busy shop offering both hair and nail services. Walk in traffic. Owner is on site. One station available for rent Ask for Hannah 925-689-7278
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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.
We currently clean the windows at the Clayton Library and City Hall
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VOLUNTEERS WANTED Meals on Wheels Drivers 1 – 1 1/2 per week. Drivers and relief drivers needed for delivery of Meals on Wheels in East County. People are on the waiting list due to lack of drivers. A small amount of your time can make a big difference in someone’s life. If you can help, please call Jim at 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@sbcglobal.net. Anna’s Attic Volunteers Volunteers needed at the Hospice of the East Bay thrift store. The address of the store is 5350 Clayton Road. Call store manager, Debbie at 6749072 or Lamont Campbell at (925) 766-5066. Hospice of the East Bay Anna's Program, (formerly Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa), is seeking dedicated, caring volunteers to provide home companionship and practical support for women with recurrent breast cancer. Women served reside in Central or East Contra Costa. To apply for free training, call Hospice of the East Bay at (925) 887-5678 and ask for the Volunteer Department, or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org. Clayton Historical Society Museum Greeter needed for two hours per month from 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays or Sundays. No experience or extensive knowledge of Clayton history is necessary. All you need is a cheerful smile and a "hello" as our guests come through the door. Call the museum at 672-0240 and leave your name. Clayton Community Library We are seeking to fill the following volunteer positions: (All positions require a minimum age of 13 years and a 6 month commitment. Some training provided). Shelver to shelve and sensitize library materials. Various days/times. Tutors - no prior experience necessary! You determine the grade level and subjects you are comfortable with and the days/times. Requires good communication skills, patience and a desire to help students in the community. Contact: Arlene @ 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org
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Hoyer, from page 1 CONCORD EYES PRIME PROPERTY Originally a stage coach stop on the road to Martinez, the town of Clayton has a history going back to the early 1800s. But the city of Clayton goes back only 45 years. Prior to incorporation in 1964, the bucolic orchards and grassy hills of Clayton were in unincorporated Contra Costa County. The lot sizes and the trees were big, and horses were a regular sight on Main Street. In the early 1960s, Concord announced its intentions to start annexing the best parts of Clayton. Bob and Eldora led the successful “David and Goliath” fight against the gobbling giant next door. It began with a call from local real estate broker Nan Wallace in 1963. Concord had its sights set on Cardinet Glen, and Wallace told the Hoyers: “We have to do something.” “And it was ‘we’ right away,” recalls Bob Hoyer. Thus began more than 18 months of petitions, paper work, endless hearings and Town Hall meetings. The Hoyers were tireless, recalls Joe Swicegood, who served on the first Planning Commission. “Bob never gave up. He had the tenacity to stay with it.” On March 18, 1964, the tiny rural town with a population of less than 1,000 became a city with home rule. Bob Hoyer was rewarded with a seat on the first City Council, where he would serve until 1980. He had the distinction of being the first mayor of Clayton, and Eldora glued the Concord Transcript’s victory story into the first of many meticulously detailed scrapbooks she would keep over the years.
goes back to the city’s beginnings, when the corner at Main and Marsh Creek was a dense eucalyptus grove. In 1964, the Clayton Woman’s Club, headed by Eldora, wanted to buy the land for a park. The price was $65,000. “While they were trying to raise the money, James Cox and Nan Wallace bought it out from under us,” Bob Hoyer says with a laugh. “They had the money and we didn’t.” The property may have slipped away, but the dream did not. In 1999, the city bought the land from Cox and a resounding “yes” from Clayton voters in 2000 said to set it aside for a park. Hoyer served on the Park Design Committee, and The Grove opening on Jan. 12, 2008, is on the short list of his proudest moments.
March 6, 2009
house to its present location on Main Street and then scraped paint, sanded, wallpapered and repainted the old house that now serves as the Clayton Museum. Determined and focused is how Swicegood describes her. “She’s very into the details and getting things right the first time.” “She’s the powerful matriarch,” says Shuey. “She’s the quiet power and you just know, that at any moment, she could take control if needed.” The Hoyers were married in 1947. In 1956, they bought property in Clayton and moved into their hilltop home in 1960. At that time, the population of Clayton was about 900. They have two sons and a daughter, four grandchildren and one great grandchild. Forty-five years ago, the Hoyers shared a vision of Clayton with a small group of residents determined to remain independent. “We’ve accom-
CAREFULLY PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
The move to incorporate met with considerable resistance from developers eager to scoop up land for subdivisions. “It’s not that we were against growth,” says Bob Hoyer. “We could see it coming, and we just wanted to do it our way.” “Our way” included waiting for the “right” developments and requiring developers to dedicate land for open space along Clayton’s creeks to create an award-winning trail system. Sitting in his family home at a long table scattered with memorabilia, Bob Hoyer slowly turns the pages of one of his wife’s huge scrapbooks. He recalls dates, names, issues and places with acuity unexpected in someone who will turn 88 this week. Name a parcel of land anywhere in Clayton, and Hoyer will tell you who owned it, who sold it and who built on it. After his retirement from the council, Hoyer went on to work on his dream for a downtown park. His vision for The Grove
Nothing says high-end like natural stone.
Photo courtesy of the city of Clayton
BOB HOYER IS SWORN IN with the first City Council in 1964. Behind Hoyer is George Abbott and Al Liming. This photo hangs in the City Hall conference room. Shuey chaired the committee and relied on Hoyer’s experience and wisdom. “Because of his years of being on the council, he was able to sometimes pull us back to the real issue when we would get sidetracked by minutiae,” Shuey says. “It was almost like, ‘OK kids, let’s focus.’ ” HELPING PRESERVE HISTORY Eldora Hoyer, 86, loves history, especially Clayton history. A founding member of the Clayton Historical Society, she is known for rolling up her sleeves and getting the job done. She was influential in obtaining grants to move the Joel Clayton
plished a lot,” Bob Hoyer says, closing the last of the scrapbooks. “Whenever I’m out and about, I like to stop people and ask them how they like living in Clayton,” he muses. “Ninety percent of the time, they say they love it. That makes me feel good.” The public is invited to the dedication of Hoyer Hall and an informal reception at 5:30 on Mar. 17 in the Library Meeting Room, 6125 Clayton Road.
New liaison for Travis Credit Union
ERIC MALDONADO
Eric Maldonado has been appointed community involvement officer for Travis Credit Union. The Concord resident will be responsible for representing the credit union at community and industry events and promoting credit union products and services in Contra Costa County. Additionally, he will serve as a public relations generalist to include advocacy for members and potential members of modest means. He’ll be working out of the Travis branch in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center. Maldonado was formerly with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, where he served as a financial representative. He sits on the board of the Contra Costa County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Concord Chamber of Commerce. He has been recognized by Congressman George Miller, Sen. Tom Torlakson and Assemblyman Mark DeSaulnier for his service to the community. “Eric’s extensive community involvement experience, coupled with his seasoned background in financial services, makes him a highly valuable member of the Travis team,” said Lila Dressen, executive vice president of Travis Credit Union.
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Julie Pierce and Mary Spryer contributed to this story.
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Page 7
Collecting dust detracts from the experience of reliving my youth ANDRÉ GENSBURGER
DEAL WITH IT There was a time when I owned close to 3,000 comic books. These were the golden and silver ages of Superman. I was a Superman addict, running through my house wearing my towel-cape and, for a shy and scrawny boy, this man of steel provided an anchor in a difficult life and a window to allow my own imagination to soar. An uncle started my stamp collection, coin collection and first day covers, each item carefully cataloged and placed, with care, to preserve it. As an adult, I developed a fascination with fountain pens snapping them up wherever possible, delighting at estate sales when the last item left, the one thing no one else wanted, was an old fountain pen, such as the stainless steel barreled Parker 25 that I obtained for $2 despite it holding a value of about $50. As a writer, I have always enjoyed books and movies, collecting, almost obsessively, the books of Philip K. Dick, science fiction author of such novels as “Do Androids Dream of
Electric Sheep?” made later into the movie “Blade Runner,” or his other titles that have enjoyed celluloid fame such as “Total Recall,” “Minority Report” and “A Scanner Darkly.” Like so many people, I used to buy DVDs of movies I enjoyed, fully intending to watch them again at a later date. even though there was not enough time in my life to sit immobile for hours at a time. So why do we gather, hoard, collect and otherwise nest items that we perceive as somehow important to our lives? Certainly, a most overused word is collection, as though there will be some tangible value in the collection should we ever wish to part with it. In his book, “Collecting: An Unruly Passion: Psychological Perspectives,” psychologist Werner Muensterberger proposed that a control of the object being collected allows for a “relief of the child’s anxiety and frustration that comes with feeling helpless and being alone.” We use these objects to revive old memories, especially fond moments in our life, and yet the expression of that remains limited compared to the size of the collections we hold. “Indeed,” Muensterberger explained, “each
single item in a collection usually has a distinct meaning for the owner.” For others, it is a sense of completion of their collection that both drives and satisfies them, while for some, the obsession escalates into an undefined collection of things that cannot be thrown away. These “pack rats” are often solitary in their lives and yet surrounded by the physicality of these tangible moments of life that not only acts as a reassurance, but also keeps them busy with endless management. Nowadays, with everything overproduced, the likelihood of any real monetary value assigned to a collection is slim. As my book collection, my DVD collection and other things that I had started to preserve began to gather more dust than memory, I realized that it was time to part ways. This fascination touches many of us. Those of us who wander into thrift stores or at estate sales, seeking out little treasures or affectionately grabbing our spouse and pointing out that same toy we once owned as a kid, even though it is now a disintegrating shadow of what it once was, understand the addiction we have to our things.
RICHARD LITTORNO FINANCIAL SENSE The goal of estate planning is to gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family will be provided for and your wishes will be carried out after you’re gone. Few things can disturb that peace of mind as quickly as the fear that someone will contest your plan. No protection is absolute, but with thorough planning you can minimize the chances that an assault will pierce your armor. RISK ASSESSMENT The first step is to evaluate your risk. There’s no reason to invest in protection you don’t really need. If your estate plan distributes your wealth to the “natural objects of your bounty” – such as your spouse and children – in roughly equal shares, then you probably have little reason for concern. But if you plan to disinherit a family member or leave most of your assets to
charity, you might want to shore up your defenses. There also may be a heightened risk of litigation over your estate plan if you own a family business or have children from a previous marriage. Protection for your estate plan generally falls into two categories: strategies that discourage others from contesting your plan and those that make it more difficult for a challenge to succeed. AVOIDING CONFLICTS There are several strategies you can use to avoid disputes over the terms of your estate plan. First, treat everyone fairly. If your plan makes everyone happy, there’s no reason for anyone to contest it. Remember, though, that equal doesn’t necessarily mean fair. Suppose you have a young child from your current marriage and a financially independent adult child from a previous marriage. If you divide your wealth between them equally, the younger child – who likely needs more financial help – may perceive your plan as unfair.
If your estate plan is atypical, you can avoid misunderstandings and potential disputes by sitting down with your family and explaining your motives. Perhaps you’re leaving the bulk of your estate to a familyrun private foundation to get your children involved in philanthropy. If so, the time for them to learn this is now, not at the reading of your will. If you own a family business, you might plan to leave equity interests to family members who work in the business and use other assets to provide for those who don’t. Or you might use voting and nonvoting shares to divide the business equally while preserving management control for family members who work in it. Whichever approach you use, it’s important to discuss your reasoning with those affected and solicit their input.
During a recent trip to Monterey, I discovered a treasure that instantly filled me with joy. As a boy, I frequently flew Japan Air Lines with my parents. They gave their young passengers felt wings embroidered with gold and silver thread edging and the letters “JAL.” Don’t ask me why, but through the years I always wanted to see that little piece of felt and thread again, perhaps to experience the sense of awe and delight I felt as the gigantic metal hulk lifted off the runway and gave me Superman’s ability to fly.
March 6-8
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As my wife and I were about to leave Monterey, we stopped in one final store and there, in a case, were the very wings I was seeking. Forty bucks worth of felt and gold thread. And worth every penny. Perhaps it is just a human failing that produces the need for these crutches to help bolster our sense of peace. Or perhaps it is a vital piece of assigning value to a life that is otherwise filled with uncertainty, rushing toward a predictable end. We can’t take it with us, but we surely can leave it behind – our markers of a life lived, our pyramids of somehow having been important. Or just the satisfaction of having completed something huge. My wife can 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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Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
March 6, 2009
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Most homebuyers and sellers use a real estate agent to help them buy or sell a home. But not all buyers and sellers have the same degree of success. Real estate transactions can be complicated, and they are often stressful. Finding the right agent to assist you through the experience will make a big difference in your satisfaction level. Look for an experienced and trustworthy agent who is professional and knowledgeable. The agent should have expertise in the area where you want to buy or sell. It helps if the agent is energetic and resourceful. A high priority should be to find an agent with whom you can develop a good rapport. If you have a good working relationship with your agent, you’ll be able to work through challenging situations with a minimum of stress. Good communications and teamwork are essential to a successful transaction. Your first impressions should tell you a lot about an agent. Since rapport is so important, don’t even consider working with someone who turns you off. You might meet an agent who is overly aggressive. If you don’t relate well to this style, find an agent who has a more subtle approach to sales. Or an agent might not be aggressive enough for your taste. If so, find yourself a go-
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ESTATE getter. The agent should make your real estate transaction less, not more, stressful for you. You’re looking for a good personality fit. Personal recommendations are your best source for agent referrals, particularly if the recommendations come from people whose opinions you trust. Another way to find agents is to visit Sunday open houses in the area where you’ll be buying or selling. This gives you an opportunity to observe them in action without having to make a commitment. If you like what you see, you can make an appointment to talk further with the agent. Some people interview several agents before selecting one. Be sure to ask the agents you talk with whether they have enough time to give you the attention
you deserve. If an agent is spread too thin, you won’t be satisfied with the service you receive. Good agents will be candid with you about whether they’re too busy to take on another client. If you are interviewing agents, be aware that the agents may also be interviewing you. The best agents are in the highest demand because they deliver quality service. These agents are selective and look for buyers and sellers who are serious, trustworthy and with whom they can develop a good rapport. It’s a matter of economics for agents. Most real estate agents are paid on a commission, so they only get paid when a
home sale closes. The best agents manage their time well and spend their efforts wisely. Some of the best agents have assistants; otherwise, they couldn’t handle a high volume business. Make sure you understand upfront with whom you’ll be working. If you’ll be interacting mostly with an assistant, interview this person to make sure you feel comfortable with this arrangement. 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.
Needs and Deeds . . . With unemployment in the Bay Area topping 10 percent and more layoffs expected, there has never been a greater need for each of us to extend a helping hand. Social services are cut back, schools are looking at severe cuts and churches and charities are straining to respond. If you know of an individual or family that needs help or a fundraiser that needs community support, please let us know. We will publish appeals for individual or family assistance or support for local fundraisers on a space-available basis. Please tell us something about the family or organization and how the funds will be used. Needs and Deeds is also an opportunity to recognize the Good Samaritans and unsung heroes in our community who rise to the challenge of a neighbor’s need. Send your items to needs_deeds@claytonpioneer.com.
Healing Hut offers natural remedies for pain, stress DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer
Carol Longshore is a healer. At the Healing Hut in Concord, she practices holistic medicine healing the bodies and calming the minds of her clients. Longshore then teaches her clients to do the same for themselves in the future. “The premise is that the body is a temple and it can heal itself if it’s in order,” she said. Clients come to the Healing Hut suffering from a variety of conditions, from neck and back pain to arthritis and simple stress. Longshore understands, because she suffered debilitating back and leg pain while caring for four young children. “The pain was worse than
birthing those four children,” she said. Doctors prescribed Vicodin and rest, but Longshore resisted and sought natural methods of healing. “I said, ‘I want to know why this is happening,’ ” Longshore recalled. “If I would have listened to (the doctors), at 63 years old I would be addicted to Vicodin.” Instead, she found a doctor who used acupuncture and body manipulation techniques to heal what she calls “great sciatica.” Longshore became a convert to the field of holistic medicine. Using combinations of Ayurvedic techniques, posture control exercises and massage, Longshore and business partner Larry Barlettani offer clients an alternative to traditional drug
and surgery treatments for the aches and pains related to stressful lives. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, almost 40 percent of Americans use some form of holistic medicine. These range from fish oil tablets and other herbal diet supplements, to massage, yoga and meditation techniques. “Once the body understands how it feels to be relaxed, through meditation, through stretching, through understanding how to let go of things, it can heal itself,” Longshore said. Client Phillip Martin described Longshore’s work using a system of exercises designed in the 1890s to alleviate back pain and tension. “She puts her hands on your body and moves it around and sort of gets it back. She does a little bit of having you stand up and sit down and learn to do things like that properly. And then she does what might be considered massage-like stretching to get the body to be realigned with itself,” he said. “You walk better, you stand better, you sit better,” Martin added. “The body just says, ‘This is the way it’s supposed to be.’ ” Barlettani, a certified massage therapist, has been practicing Swedish and deep tissue massages for over a decade. He
Denisen Hartlove/Clayton Pioneer
CAROL LONGSHORE practices holistic healing, teaching her clients how to relax so their bodies can heal themselves.
said people’s awareness of alternative therapies seems to be increasing. “(People) want to try something different than just regular drugs.” He noted that holistic medicine doesn’t offer a “right-now” solution but is a process of learning to live a healthy life, and as a result, gaining a healthy mind and body. “I think, in the long run, it’s going to save them a lot of money,” he said. “And years – they’ll live longer, and happier.” The Healing Hut is at 1850 Parkside Dr, Concord. Call 6856710.
March 6, 2009
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Intel offers a CPU like never before
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK Intel has released a new CPU computing platform using the Core 2 package and integrating a host of new features that surpass all existing CPU benchmarks. The new package, known as the Intel i7, is packed with enhancements designed to increase the overall speed of the processor by as much as 60 percent. Intel’s CPU platform bestows improvements to the central processing unit that increase speed and performance, reduce power consumption and enhance the execution of multiple applications for a new generation of computers. This comes just in time to help users falling prey to resource demands of antivirus programs.
The Intel i7 chip, code named Nehalem and Tukwila, made major improvements in the overall design, but I see special cleverness in the redesign of the bus. The bus delivers data bits known as transfers to main memory and back to the CPU for processing. Up to now, the limits of transfers were on the order of millions of transfers per second. Intel developed a point-topoint system connect known as QuickPath Interconnect or QPI. The new interconnect can move data at peak rates of 25GB/sec (at a 6.4 gigatransfers per second base). This replaces the Front Side Bus (FSB) design running at 1333MHz. The new design has an order magnitude of billions of transfers per second, also known as gigatransfers. Not all Nehalem processors will support the full theoretical bandwidth; the budget system CPUs support the slower 19GB/sec. Still, we’re talking billions of bits flying down the bus instead of millions and a significant increase in the thinking speed of the CPU. The new multi-core CPU architecture has its roots in the 2007 Core 2 release, but with
improvements in the bus, power utilization and cool new features like Turbo boost. Turbo boost transfers power from any idle CPU core to those that are processing data. It also provides extra performance boost by turning off the unused cores and transferring the power to the used core. It’s like more pressure from a hose when water is turned off somewhere else in the yard. Hyper Threading has returned and new enhancements for video as well. Intel decided desktop and server computers should begin emulating their larger cousins, known as main frame computers. When Intel introduced CPUs, compromises needed to be made in design to keep costs down. However, as technology and chip design progresses, the need for compromises diminished. Now the consumer can have a CPU as powerful or more powerful than some main frame computers. This is not just the latest chip release, rather a revolution in computer technology. Gone are the compromises made to accommodate the home and
Page 9
BUYERS & INVESTORS! Bargain Prices and Bargain Interest Rates make this the Best Time to BUY in the past 10 Years! Why keep your money in stock, mutual funds, low rate bonds, or gold that draws no income, when you could own tangible Real Estate, with revenue, tax write-off, and actual net income! The best buys today are REO properties with banks choking on their inventory and ready to negotiate with the right broker representing YOU! There are 11 REO properties for sale in Clayton right now,
and more than 300 in Concord at ALL price ranges. My buyers and investors are picking up some great bargains NOW while the negotiating is good and before all the other waiting buyers come back into the market. If this interests you also, just give Pete a call at 940-2777 to discuss your situation, and how YOU can also profit from these unique times.
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Mayor, from page 1 The city Website (www.ci.clayton.ca.us) has a feedback form (click on feedback tab) where you can report any number of problems, including graffiti. We will immediately refer it to the proper department and respond to you promptly. The Community Park ball fields that were so badly damaged late last summer and fall by the wild pigs have been repaired by the maintenance crew, too. The fields are ready for Little League and other groups this spring. Speaking of the Community Park, have you had a chance to check out the refurbished play area and new, covered, group picnic facilities? You might think of renting it for your next family reunion or company picnic. It’s also a great place for a family BBQ or to just watch the sunset on a summer evening. The views are spectacular. Meanwhile, a few questions have been raised about the proposed downtown gateway and signage project mentioned in the last issue. This is a multi-faceted project co-sponsored by the city and the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA). The city-sponsored portion of the combined project includes completion of a trail segment from Longs Drug to the intersection at Clayton Road and old Marsh Creek Road, plus the installation of two Town Center entry signs to attract visitors to
our downtown businesses. This part of the project will be funded with Redevelopment Agency money, which by law can only be used for capital projects – not for ongoing maintenance or operation costs. The CBCA-sponsored portion of the project will include the beautification of “Daffodil Hill,” reconstruction of the Clayton Town Center sign that is falling apart and other enhancements to this gateway to downtown. The CBCA is also funding two vintage tractors for display in two locations downtown. Combining the two projects should result in economies of scale for construction, but the scope of the project(s) may be adjusted depending on the bids we receive. Due to the economy and the drought, it is likely that plants needing water and maintenance will not be installed until both those circumstances improve. On Feb. 17, along with Vice Mayor Hank Stratford and Councilman Joe Medrano, I had the honor of participating in Challenge Day at Diablo View Middle School. This is a great organization that creates connections with teens and communities. The overall goal is to increase personal power and selfesteem, to shift dangerous peer pressure to positive peer support and to eliminate the acceptability of teasing, violence and all forms of oppression. The program is
designed to unite members of the school and community and empower them to carry the themes back into the school population and community. It was an inspirational day for all who participated, and I sincerely thank Susanne and Charles Renner for funding the program. Wednesday, March 18, is the 45th anniversary of the incorporation of Clayton. In tribute to two of the leaders of the incorporation and in honor of their dedication and efforts to fulfill the vision of the founders of our community, we will rename the Library Meeting Room as Hoyer Hall. Please join us at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, (prior to our Council Meeting) for the dedication ceremony and reception to thank Bob and Eldora Hoyer for their contributions to our town. Finally, I want to brag a bit. My husband Steve and I welcomed our fourth grandchild last week. Elizabeth Adelle Pierce is the new daughter of our son Robert Pierce and his wife Jenny (Wood). Ellie’s 3-year-old big brother, Gavin, is pretty proud too. We had the whole family together last weekend with a visit from our older son, Shawn, his wife Jaime and their two daughters. Grandchildren are great and really remind me why we work so hard to make our community special. It’s such a treat to walk down to The Grove Park to play and visit with friends and family.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com 50%
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Protecting pets from urban wildlife As our local cities have expanded up the slopes of Mt. Diablo, the natural habitat of mountain lions, coyotes and rattlesnakes has been encroached upon – heightening dangerous encounters for humans and pets. By following simple guidelines, we can reduce these encounters and learn to live in harmony with the original inhabitants of our communities. Mountain lions and coyotes
see cats, small dogs and even large dogs as easy prey. Coyotes have even been known to attack golden retrievers walking on leash with their owner. Each week, I sadly review the many “lost pet” fliers on our bulletin board, hoping they did not fall prey to these predators. Of these three predators, the omnivorous coyote is the most adaptable to the human environment. It relishes not only our pets but our garbage, fruit
Sal and Los Feliz are ARF’s adoption stars Sal is a busy and friendly little fellow. He will thrive in an active home where he can entertain all with his silly antics. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes a seven-week training class. Los Feliz is a gentle and calm feline who is a little on the shy side. Los Feliz enjoys being petted and would SAL love to be a part of your family. 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.
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and vegetables in our gardens and outside pet/bird food sources. BEST TO AVOID SNAKE BITES The danger presented by rattlesnakes is not predation but poisonous bites. Rattlesnakes hibernate during the winter, emerging in the warmer weather of March and April with their young. The newborn snakes are the most dangerous, since they have yet to learn the fine-tuning of envenomation and instead inject large amounts of venom at a bite. The hemotoxic venom disrupts blood vessels, creating dramatic swelling of the bite area. Destruction of red blood cells and breakdown of the clotting system leads to internal bleeding, shock and death. Treatment includes IV fluids, antibiotics, antihistamines and blood transfusions. Antivenin can dramatically decrease recovery time and risk of tissue sloughing. Unfortunately, the more reasonably priced veterinary equinebased antivenin is now unavailable. John Muir/Mt. Diablo hospitals have the human ovinebased antivenin, but the cost of one vial can be about $3,000. More than one vial may be needed for treatment, so prevention is the key to avoiding a large expense and possible death of your pet. A rattlesnake vaccine is available for dogs with high exposure risk. The vaccine reduces the dog’s reaction, buying time as emergency veterinary care is found, but it does not prevent the need for treatment. Veterinarians recommend the best time to start this vaccine is during the first few months of the year, before the snakes emerge from hibernation. MAKE YOUR YARD UNINVITING
To keep these animals out of your yard, reduce attractive food and water sources. Feed pets inside and don’t leave food or water dishes outside. Avoid bird feeders, because spilled birdseed will attract rodents. Clear old fruit and vegetables from gardens and use closed composting containers. Secure garbage in tightly closed containers and store in the garage or a protected area. To prevent scavenging, avoid leaving containers out over night. Residents also need to reduce the presence of prey. Rodents, including mice, rats, squirrels and moles, are the prey of rattlesnakes, coyotes and mountain lions. Treat any emerging rodent problem immediately. Deer are also a major prey source for mountain lions. Deter them with deer-resistant plants, deer repellant sprays on ornamental plants and deer proof fences.
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places for coyotes and mountain lions. Avoid wood, junk and rock piles, which provide hiding places for rattlesnakes and their prey. Install outdoor lighting to see the movement of mountain lions and coyotes and to deter them from entering these areas at night. Install fences that deter coyotes, snakes and deer proof. In general, fences should be at least 6 feet tall and arched outward at the top to deter coyotes. Rattlesnakes cannot climb fences this high. To prevent coyotes and snakes from burrowing under fences, bury the fence several inches underground using wire mesh. These fences will also help keep deer out. KEEPING PETS SECURE It’s a good idea to keep cats and small pets indoors. However, a large dog that barks to protect the property may deter lions and coyotes. If your pets do go out, avoid dawn and dusk – when lions and coyotes are most active. Spay and neuter your pets. Females in heat may attract male coyotes. Walk your pets on leash at all times, especially when hiking on the trails. Chickens should be kept in coyote and lion proof enclosures. Enclose sheep, goats and cattle in barns or other wood housing at night. If these predators are seen in your yard or close to humans, frighten them away by making loud noises and yelling. Make yourself look big by waving your arms and expanding your jacket over your head. Some of my clients have saved their pet’s life by frightening the coyote to drop their cat or small dog from its mouth after an attack. Harassment is not cruelty; it’s a way to maintain fear of humans in these animals to prevent them from entering our communities. If all neighbors pull together to follow these general guidelines around their homes, encounters with dangerous urban wildlife can be greatly reduced. For more information, visit the Lindsay Wildlife Museum at www.wildlife-museum.org. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at www.fundwildlife.org. The University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program at www.ipm.ucdavis.edu. Google coyote, snake and deer proof fences for guidelines. Marybeth Rymer, DVM, can be reached at Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital, Concord. 672-1100.
March 6, 2009
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 11
DV students take on challenging experience JEANETTE BREDEHOFT Special to the Pioneer
I’ve recently made two discoveries – about Kleenex and kids. The first is that it takes one box of tissues to make it through a 6½-hour Challenge Day. The second, and most important, is that there are some pretty amazing kids at Clayton’s Diablo View Middle School. I volunteered to be a parent facilitator at the Feb. 17 Challenge Day program at DVMS. Challenge Day is an internationally recognized program that promotes community cohesiveness in schools, churches, businesses and other groups. It was created in 1987 by Rich and Yvonne Dutra-St. John, who recognized that some of the biggest problems in our schools and society – depression, alcohol and drug abuse, violence and eating disorders – are merely symptoms of deeper problems. They saw that the root causes are actually separation, isolation and loneliness. The program’s goal is to create environments where every person “feels safe, loved and celebrated – where bullying, violence and other forms of oppression are things of the past.” KICKING OFF WITH A CHEER The day began with a short meeting between the Challenge
Day leaders and the adults who volunteered. Dressed in red Tshirts and jeans, the well-trained leaders were approachable, friendly, compassionate and sincere. We were told that the 100 seventh- and eighth-graders would be welcomed by two rows of adults cheering, clapping and dancing to the rock music blaring in the background. After the grand entrance, we were all seated and introductions were made – all 120 or so of them, with each individual stating his or her name followed by a round of applause. There was an awesome “icebreaker” game, which ended with a lot of strangers giving each other their first hug of the day. The music was softened a bit, and the leaders told the students they were the lucky ones who were going to “Be the Change” at the school. They would experience emotions, vulnerability, openness, understanding, safety and finally compassion and connectedness. MAKING A PERSONAL CONNECTION
To help find out who we really are behind our public faces and how our experiences shaped our lives, we broke into small groups with at least one adult facilitator. We sat in close circles, knees-toknees, and took two-minute turns talking about ourselves while the others gave their undi-
vided attention. Do you know how difficult it is to talk about yourself for that long? As we exposed ourselves to each other, we may have felt vulnerable and emotional. This is where the tissue came in handy! We listened intently as our “real” selves unfolded in front of strangers. We hugged intently as we gave affirmation to one another, as we learned of each other’s dreams, pain, suffering and happiness. This helped the students see beyond the “face” and begin to see the similarities amongst themselves instead of the differences. DEVELOPING COMPASSION There were several sessions like this throughout the day, each building on the theme of “Be the Change.” The theme demonstrates seven basic principles: be inclusive, no put downs or teasing, encourage love and compliments, listen with the eyes and heart, be open minded, drop the waterline and get real, and be the change you wish to see in the world. The leaders shared stories that examined the effects of isolation, teasing and bullying. They explained how everyone has a “balloon” filled bit by bit with oppression they may have experienced. If you don’t let go of the pressure (anger) that is built up over time, your balloon could
pop in unwanted ways. Strangers, friends and family members can be on the receiving end of your frustrations. After many more lessons, fun games, tears, smiles and hugs, the students began to show overwhelming understanding and compassion for one another. The change that came about in that gym was magical. My favorite part was the last hour, where the real healing took place. I was astounded as I watched the many students who bravely volunteered to speak into the microphone and sincerely apologize to one another for being hurtful in the past. Many extraordinary apologies were made, accepted and followed by a hug. Friendships were renewed, tears shed and commitments were made to help stop bullying and teasing on campus. I was reduced to a soppy lump as my pile of Kleenex grew. Perhaps I’m a bit emotional. Perhaps I was ignorant to the potential each student holds to make a difference in their community. These kids are strong. They have compassionate hearts. I’m hoping that these 100 students can continue to reach out to others at school, be inclusive and make a change. That is the challenge for them – and that should be the challenge for our community.
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Don’t diminish sports, says former CV athlete Editor’s Note: This article is in response to Michelle Trosclair’s Feb. 28 column about athletics vs. academics. MEGHAN PARDI Special to the Pioneer
Michelle, I am sorry for your klutzy nature and broken limbs. Athletics is by no means for everyone. But as a Clayton Valley graduate six years ago, I believe your article sways a bit harshly on the school’s atmosphere. I still have a lot of school pride, and I believe you are not giving CV the credit it deserves. There is no doubt that athletics were an immense part of my experience at Clayton Valley, but they are far from the “experience I hold above all other aspects” of high school at Clayton Valley. I met some of the most passionate teachers and personnel at
Clayton Valley, and I am forever in debt to them for preparing me for college. I was also part of two amazing musicals, an outstanding women’s ensemble and a leadership class that did much more than wish senior athletes good luck each week. My education at Clayton Valley was an all-around one. CV gives high school students as many outlets as possible to shine. Education is about more than just school work. It is the all-around experience academically, socially and emotionally that makes up education. I respectfully disagree with your statement that “having good grades means virtually nothing anymore.” As you said, not only are they “imperative to continuing education after high school,” but they are mandatory. I don’t care how good you are at any sport, if you do not make the minimum grades you will not
School News CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL The Contra Costa County Office of Education sponsored two workshops for about 20 high school biology teachers and ROP biotechnology teachers on Feb. 17-19. “Genes to Cognition” and “Inside Cancer” were led by the Dolan DNA Learning Center based in Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. Karen Kelly, an ROP forensic science teacher at CV, said the workshop presenters “did a fabulous job.” She has many ideas to take back to the classroom. “The material is usable on many levels, from basic biology to the college level,” she said. *** The Parent Faculty Club is looking for candidates for near year’s board. The PFC’s primary function is to support all educational programs, with a particular emphasis on updating and maintaining technology. For more information, contact Alison Bacigalupo at 408-7457 or abacigalupo@comcast.net.
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be considered for an athletic scholarship. Now it is true that the best athletes – and we are talking about a very small percentage – do get into the college of their choice with “lackluster” grades. However, I cannot think of one Clayton Valley athlete going to a top academic institution without the grades to support him/her. The CV kids getting into Stanford, UCLA and the Ivy League universities are the ones hitting the high SAT scores and obtaining the above 4.0 GPAs. Newspapers are going to report on what people want to read. This is not just high school newspapers but all newspapers. Sports are part of American culture and although it might not be your interest, it is one of the most affluent industries in the country and not to mention one of the biggest followings in the country. You’re right: “Sports are
inescapable.” It does take true academic discipline and intelligence to receive the highest honor of valedictorian/grand Altair or any one of the Altair awards given out at the end of the year. My hat goes off to those students, however, let’s not snub athlete of the year. That takes just as much discipline and talent; it is just not in the area of academia. I hope our youth know that a 4.0 GPA is more valuable than throwing a ball. But doing both couldn’t hurt. You personally would “choose achieving academic excellence over sports talent any day.” I would choose both, but that’s just me. Sports do not “coincide with age.” The lessons, friendships and memories last a lifetime.
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DIABLO VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL The 8th Grade Promotion Committee is looking for donations for the 8th Grade Promotion Party. This event is fully funded by the PFC and 8th grade parents. For more information, contact Carla Neer at 673-7212 or MCKNeer@aol.com. The committee will have meetings at 6 p.m. March 18, April 22 and May 13 in the school library, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY Support MDES by attending the Fundraising Auction Dinner and Dance on Fri. Apr. 3, at Centre Concord. Tickets are $50 per person. Email beth.rutledge@proforma.com
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
March 6, 2009
Clayton Sports St. Bonnie Bulldogs enjoy third season of success RANDY ROWLAND Clayton Pioneer
The St. Bonaventure Bulldogs sixth-grade boy’s basketball team is making history. By capturing their third consecutive league title in the American Division of the East Diablo CYO division, the boys have now won three straight league titles and, even more impressively, it is the third year in a row they have been undefeated. With a 12-0 record for three straight seasons, the team has gone 36-0 in league play and league playoffs since forming as fourth-graders. They looked to take their record into the post season and advance to the Oakland Diocese Championships. However, they fell short and were defeated 4538 by Christ the King of Pleasant Hill to end their season on Feb. 22. The St. Bonaventure team is comprised of Concord and Clayton players, with the majority living in Clayton and attending Diablo View Middle School. The Bulldogs are coached by Brian McCoy, and assistant coaches Robert Helena and Tim Lunsford are both from Clayton. It is the third year this trio has coached
together. In order to advance to the diocese playoffs, a team must win its division playoffs – and the boys have done that each season. As a fourth-grade team,
they advanced and lost to All Saints from Hayward. In the fifth grade, they avenged that lost only to lose to eventual champion St. Perpetua of Lafayette.
This year, they had a successful tournament season and were runners-up at the prestigious San Francisco Flame tournament. St. Bonaventure sailed through the regular sea-
son with a perfect 10-0 mark before defeating Good Shepard of Pittsburg in the playoffs and winning the East Diablo Championship by beating St. Ignatius of Antioch 39-25 in
Photo by Jim Stielow The St. Bonaventure 6th Grade boys basketball ball line up for a team photo after their Diocese playoff game against Christ the King. Back Row: Asst. Coach, Tim Lunsford, Head Coach Brian McCoy, Asst. Head Coach Robert Helena, player Ryan Kinney. Front Row: Players, Jake Lunsford, Tanner McCoy, Kevin Mahlman, Ricky Helena, Jonathan Allen, Sam Stielow.
the finals, paced by Tanner McCoy and Jonathan Allen. UNDERSTANDING THE TEAM CONCEPT
Helena has seen these kids develop over the years and believes the key to their success is team defense. “These kids are dedicated to playing defense. We are not the biggest team, but we are very athletic,” he said. “Most are younger siblings of kids who have played competitive basketball and that gives us a distinct advantage. We can introduce new concepts at a more rapid pace and they understand it.” According to Helena, Jonathan and Ryan Kinney are probably two of the best players in the league. Ryan, a Clayton resident, is in his third year with the team. He is the team’s power forward, averaging 5.5 points per game. Ryan enjoys basketball because “it is an up tempo, fast and fun game, and it is a challenge.” He thinks his jump shot is the best part of the game, but he likes working on becoming a better defensive player. He says much of the team’s success is because they play together as a team. “And if
See Bulldogs, page 14
CV athlete heads north to play football for Ducks RANDY ROWLAND Clayton Pioneer
Clayton’s Nick Cole was among those signing on the dotted line on Feb. 4, the first day of national letter of intent signing for prep athletes receiving scholarship offers from colleges. Cole, a three-sport athlete at Clayton Valley High School, received a full ride scholarship from the University of Oregon to play football for the Ducks in the fall. As part of the most successful season in CV’s 50-year history, Cole played offense and defense for the Eagles but was recruited as a wide receiver. “I will do whatever they want me to do and whatever is best for the team,” said Cole, who at 6-3 and 185 pounds has the size and speed to excel at the next level. Cole is also a starting forward on the CV varsity basketball team and the returning North Coast Section champion in the 300 intermediate hurdles. He hopes to finish his basketball
career with a trip to the playoffs and is aiming to repeat in the NCS track and field championships and qualify for the State Meet. KEY PLAYS IN KEY GAMES Cole ended his high school football career as the Eagles went 10-0 in the regular season and followed it up with two NCS playoff wins against Casa Grande of Petaluma and Las Lomas, before falling to Cardinal Newman of Santa Rosa in the Division III Championship. Cole was a key contributor on both sides of the ball, saving his best for the big games. In the second round playoff game against Casa Grande, Cole had six catches for 170 yards and a touchdown. The following week, he tallied a season high three receiving touchdowns as he finished with seven catches and 128 yards in the Las Lomas game. In the championship, Cole turned on his defense with two
interceptions, a fumble recovery and 10 tackles. SHOOTING FOR THE PAC 10 During the football season, he received letters of interest from UC Berkeley, the University of Colorado, San Diego State and others, but nothing materialized. In December, Army and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo offered him football scholarships. But CV coaches Herc Pardi and Les Garaventa were making contacts with Pac 10 schools, and Cole held onto his dream of playing in the premiere conference. The official scholarship offer from Oregon came as he was returning home from a recruiting trip to Army. “I owe so much to my coaches at Clayton Valley, who did so much for me in terms of getting my name out there,” Cole said. Cole’s first contact with Oregon came from defensive coach Nick Aliotti, the Ducks’ recruiter for the East Bay.
Aliotti said the entire coaching staff watched Cole’s game tapes and they were impressed by his performance. Although Cole was still holding out hope for an offer from Cal, Garaventa advised him to seize the opportunity at hand. Pardi believes Oregon head coach Mike Bellotti will find the right place to play Cole as he gets bigger, faster and stronger. “I think Nick will have an outstanding career in the Pac 10,” Pardi said. “His athleticism, work ethic and competitiveness will allow him to be successful.” MOVING TO THE NEXT LEVEL For Cole, the biggest challenge will be the speed of the game. “Everybody up there will be as fast or faster than me,” said Cole, who plans to work with a personal trainer with weights and on agility before fall. Aliotti is looking forward to having Cole on campus. “When we recruited Nick, we saw him as a good athlete, a player who
be r M em ow n Ho urs o t 4 am i gh t, n d i m / D ays 5 6 3 ! Year
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer CLAYTON’S NICK COLE (SITTING) SIGNS HIS LETTER OF INTENT TO PLAY FOOTBALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF OREGON. Looking on are Clayton Valley football coaches Paul Reynaud, Herc Pardi, Les Garaventa and athletic trainer Achilles Walker.
can run after the catch and a tough receiver,” Aliotti said. “It is a big jump from high school to the Pac 10, so he will have to work hard and compete, but he has a big future here at Oregon.”
“I am really looking forward to playing in stadiums with thousands of people,” Cole added, “especially coming back to the Bay and playing against Cal and USC because I also have family in the L.A. area.”
March 6, 2009
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
Clayton Sports
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Options abound for Central County soccer JAY BEDECARRÉ Special to the Clayton Pioneer
basketball courts abounded, but flat grass spaces 60 yards by 120 yards, without trees or other vegetation, were few and far between. In simpler, slightly less hectic A group of local civic leaders times, say 20 years ago, the youth and parents did a large amount of sports calendar was fairly wellfund-raising and worked with Cal defined for parents and youngState East Bay and the city of sters alike. Concord to build the Daniel E. In the fall, there was football Boatwright Youth Sports and soccer and during the winter, Complex, which opened in 2000 basketball. Spring sprung and on the Concord-Clayton border. baseball and track came along The city of Clayton opened its with it. Finally in summer, it was community park a few years swimming or a well-earned rest before then, also helping ease the for parents worn out from loading crunch for field space. the minivan and hauling kids to Photo by Gwenn Hays Somehow the needs and practices, games, meets and tour- Kiana Mason of Diablo FC 95 Blue splits her defenders in an under demand were met, and registranaments. 13 competitive game. tion in soccer continued to rise. But as life has become more The local leagues offered “K complicated, so has the understanding and good sportsmanship.” What more could a league” for 5and 6-year-olds up to the thus management of youth sports activities. parent want? highest age group of “under 19.” This But growing enrollment and passion for At some point, the phrase “year-round” allowed athletes to play from the time they entered our lexicon. Now every sport has the sport rolled over into more competitive entered kindergarten until they left for coltiers of participation, ranging from recre- programs, and that competition wasn’t just lege. on the field of play. The leagues in this area ation to club to elite programs. Today, a young person can play soccer Locally, the youth soccer scene has (and everywhere else) competed to secure year-round with Diablo FC or WCSC. embraced all of those levels. The sport use of the valuable but finite fields and then Someone looking back fondly on “the good exploded in participation over a quarter cen- sought to fill those facilities with players ol’ days,” when soccer was a fall sport, can tury ago, when numerous organizations who now had choices where they could play. still play in MDSA, Concord AYSO or Then there was a contest to get the most started to serve the ever-expanding need. WCSC from August until November. The Parents found the sport met many of qualified coaches, because it was no longer vast majority of participants in those recretheir real and perceived needs for their chil- good enough for a willing mom or dad to dren. It was a good means for their children grab a whistle and a bag of balls and let the ation programs do just that. However, even the AYSO programs to get outdoor exercise, exposure to compe- kids loose to play. have expanded to add select programs in the As in every endeavor, the competitive tition and teamwork and something almost winter. And come spring, they have a secevery skill and size level could participate in looked for more challenges and Diablo ond recreation season (with some co-ed Valley Soccer Club (DVSC) evolved out of without much fear of injury. teams) and also tournament teams that play CAL in 1991 with a competitive program in annual competitions in Reno, Pacifica, for the Concord, Clayton, Pleasant Hill and SOCCER KICKS IN DURING THE ’70S Davis, Pleasant Hill and Concord. The Concord Athletic League (CAL), Martinez area to match that already offered 1970, and Walnut Creek Soccer Club by WCSC. A decade later, Mt. Diablo Soccer PLAYING AT THE ELITE LEVEL (WCSC), 1971, were the first to offer organ- League (MDSL) sprang from MDSA with For the competitive player, there is ized recreation programs for local residents. its own competitive program. coaching and training by former professionComing full circle, DVSC and MDSL Concord American Youth Soccer al and international players, and leagues and Organization (AYSO) evolved out of a merged a year ago to form Diablo Futbol tournaments that take players around the baseball group, Pacific Coast League, with Club. country. soccer initially the “second sport” in the Diablo FC is a competitive soccer proFIELD SPACE AT A PREMIUM 1970s. It became soccer only in 1986. gram only. In its inaugural 2008 season, This explosion of interest in soccer put The Mt. Diablo Soccer Association teams competed in Hawaii, Idaho, Arkansas (MDSA) began in the Clayton Valley area in a strain on local municipalities and school and Florida. Diablo FC teams won State 1980. All of these groups, at one time or districts for use of fields. Concord had Cup, regional and North American champianother, operated under the AYSO’s five developed a tremendous park system in the onships. tenets of “everyone plays, balanced teams, 1960s, before there was even a thought of The club participates under the national open registration, positive coaching and organized soccer. Baseball diamonds and umbrella organizations of US Club Soccer, Super Y-League and US (California) Youth Soccer Association. Its 48 competitive teams for boys and girls from under 9 through under 21 play in leagues and tournaments local, regionally and nationally. This year, WCSC is taking another step by affiliating with the Women’s Premier Soccer League, an independent national league whose main focus is on the developTAMARA STEINER ment of highly competitive amateur Clayton Pioneer women’s soccer teams. The Walnut Creek Power is the local It was the biggest fish she’d team which will wear the same colors as the ever caught, and he wasn’t going WCSC youth teams. WCSC competitive to give up easily. “I’d get him up teams play in CYSA and US Club Soccer close to the boat and he’d zoom leagues, tournaments and cup competitions. back out again,” said Clayton Yet true to its original mission, 75 percent of resident, Sarah Rodenburg. “He the 2,900 players in WCSC are on the recredid that at least a dozen times.” ation level. It took 45 minutes for MDSA has the largest Concord-based Rodenburg to wrestle the 102youth soccer program and draws 95 percent inch, 130 lb. fish to the finish. of its players from Concord and Clayton. “I felt like the Old Woman About 135 teams play each fall and nearly 40 and the Sea,” she said. I didn’t percent return for spring league, a program know who was going to win, the that didn’t exist 20 years ago. fish or me.” Concord AYSO offers a full range of The fish lost, but not withrecreation programs in fall, winter and out exacting a price. “When I spring for more than 800 players utilizing got back to our hotel that afterfields in central and north Concord, includnoon, my arms were so sore and ing Concord’s newest park at El Dorado and tired I couldn’t even twist the Westwood schools. cap off a water bottle,” she said. Concord AYSO has the distinction of Sarah and husband Bob are playing host to the only VIP Challenger prothe owners of Rodie’s Feed and gram in the greater East Bay area. The VIP Country Store on Marsh Creek SARAH RODENBURG caught this 8 ½ foot marlin last month Rd.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
March 6, 2009
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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. Have you ever attended spring training in Arizona or Florida, and how was the experience? SNYDER: I went to spring training during college. We sat in the back of a truck behind center field and watched the Milwaukee Brewers play. At the time, they had some big-name players like Cecil Cooper and the players would chat with you, give big smiles and autographs. Then two years ago while visiting friends in Fort Lauderdale, we went to a game with the Orioles. It was a small park next to a small airport and the kids had fun, but it was nothing like what goes on in Arizona these days. We spoke to the pitching coach for 15 minutes about Little League and his philosophy on what pitches they should be
throwing in games. It was a good time out. RAFALLO: I’ve been fortunate to go to Giants’ spring training three times over the past five years. We went in 2004 for the first time. As we walked up to the ball park to check it out, Willie Mays was in the foyer eating a snack. I started to cry and my husband just stood there with his mouth open. It was probably the best family vacation I’ve had. The Giants took batting practice at that time at a local municipal park and were very accessible. J.T. Snow, Ray Durham and everyone else took time to chat with my 5-year-old and sign her hat and baseballs. They’ve revamped things since then and the players are increasingly less accessible. It’s a shame. What was really a chance to see the “Boys of Summer” up close and more personal is gone. There’s still not a bad seat in the house, though, and I’d do it again. HELENA: I’ve never been to spring training, but I would love to go with my sons. I think it would be cool to see the players away from the impersonal MLB
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someone is having a bad game, someone will always pick up the slack,” Ryan said. Helena’s son Ricky is the team’s shooting guard. This is his fifth season playing CYO basketball. “I think my dribbling is better, but I still consider my strengths to be my shooting and my defense,” Ricky said. Ricky thinks much of the team’s success can be attributed to the focus and seriousness of practice. “We work really hard and listen to the coaches,” he said. He also plays second base with Clayton Valley Little
League, but basketball is his favorite. “I like the competition, and basketball is facedpaced and physical,” Ricky said. “It also really clears your mind of any stress.” TEAM SHOWS GOOD DEPTH Another Clayton resident who has excelled this season is Kevin Mahlman. He too is a sixth-grader at Diablo View, and his brother Aaron is on the varsity squad at Clayton Valley High School. In his third year on the team, Kevin plays either point guard or shooting guard. He strives to improve his shoot-
stadium setting. Even though these guys make it look so easy, the amount of preparation they put in is mostly done beyond the bright lights in spring training. The opportunity for my boys to see first-hand what it takes to be a professional in anything, even in sports, is priceless. KIRMSSE: When my son was 3, we went to Arizona hoping to catch a Giants’ game. Hours after arriving, we ended up at the emergency room as he had a high fever and a bad ear infection. We spent the entire trip in a hotel room with him, nursing him back to health so we could bring him home. Never saw a game or one swing of the bat. But we are going back when the kids are off to college! STELZNER: Going to spring training is not something I have on my bucket list. Maybe it’s something you do if you’re a hardcore baseball fan, but I don’t see the attraction. I’m a fan of sports competition, and I get a rush watching competitors go head-to-head. It doesn’t matter if it’s on grass, snow, ice, or in water.
Sports Shorts
ing and enjoys being part of the Bulldogs. “I like my teammates and trying to win games,” Kevin said. Sam Stielow of Clayton started out on the Bulldogs in fourth grade and then took a year off to play on the B team. “I decided I wanted to play with my other friends who are not on that team,” he said. At tryouts this season, Sam came back to the Bulldogs and has had a great experience. “We work hard in practice, and it pays off in games,” he noted. Stan, the team’s center, enjoys the physical play. “I like rebounding and trying to get the ball and also passing.”
DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM Signups will be held the following dates and times at the Dana Hills pool, 296 Mountaire Circle, Clayton: Returning Families: noon-4 p.m. Saturday, March 7, and 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, March 11. New and Returning Families: noon-4 p.m. Saturday, March 21. The first day of practice is April 20. For more information, contact Bill Calkins at wcalkins@pacbell.net or 6739279. Or you can visit www.danahillsotters.com.
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It doesn’t matter if it’s men, women or kids. It’s about seeing people drive themselves to do more than they thought they could. Unfortunately, I don’t get any of that watching preseason events and that’s spring training. It’s like being on vacation, but not really. It’s like being at a game, but not really. For this time of year, give me March Madness on TV or Clayton Valley High School swim meets instead. MERRIGAN: No, I have never attended spring training in Arizona or Florida. However, I’ve lived in California most of my life and know that there are faithful souls who make an annual trip to Arizona for training. I also spent four years in Wisconsin, where fans make annual trips to Florida. It must be a fun tradition for families and fans and a great time to take a vacation. Since I’m not a huge baseball fan, I probably will never go but I understand why others do. 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.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Shift in jet stream brings welcome rain our way WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS Like the rest of the world, Clayton area residents are recoiling at the state of the economy whether it’s the world economic slowdown, Ponzi schemes that robbed investors of retirement funds or the multi-billion dollar California budget deficit. There is some good economic news, and it has its roots in a weather pattern that began affecting California in midFebruary. For almost a year, strong high pressure systems camped out over our state – shunting most winter storms to the north or south. Recently, the jet stream pattern shifted course and the high pressure ridge has been replaced by a jet stream pattern that features a series of
weather systems that meteorologists call closed lows or cutoff lows. At our latitude, air in the jet stream above us typically moves west to east in a wavelike pattern comprised of ridges and troughs. Ridges of high pressure, where the circulation pattern is clockwise, are common over our area in summer. These highs are associated with downward movement of air and dry weather. Troughs of low pressure have an opposite circulation pattern and are associated with cloudy skies and active surface weather fronts. When the amplitude of the jet stream wave increases, the air flow pattern in a trough may transform from a wave-like structure to that of a complete counter-clockwise circulation. This is known as a closed low. When a closed low is completely removed from jet stream influ-
ence, it is called a cutoff low. Closed and cutoff lows can be a forecasting nightmare because they defy prediction. They may move in an opposite direction from the main jet stream, weaken or strengthen unexpectedly, draw in moisture from the tropics, remain stationary for several days or display any combination of those attributes. The February cutoff lows that brought much-needed rainfall to our reservoirs and snowfall to the Sierra displayed all the attributes described above. This circulation meandered off California for several days before moving northeastward across the West Coast. During the time it was parked off the coast, surges of subtropical moisture entered the base of the low from the west. As the subtropical moisture in this cutoff moved across the coastal moun-
tains and Sierra, lifting air motions caused by these topographical features unleashed the stored water. The liquid gold we have come to value for industrial, agricultural and human needs replenished nearly dry rivers and reservoirs. Although a few good rain and snow storms are not enough to end our drought, they did provide some needed relief. It is hard to estimate the economic benefits of the recent winter storms that resulted when the cutoff lows formed, but minimizing the threat of an extreme drought undoubtedly pay dividends. In a way, it is like Mother Nature providing a bailout package, and that is good economic news. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
Tax software proves disappointing When Uncle Sam wants his money, it’s easy to find tax information online. But actually paying your federal taxes over the Internet is another story. While no one likes paying taxes, you can make life easier by getting the right forms and learning about new tax laws. For this kind of information, it’s best to go right to the source. The IRS Website, IRS.gov, provides downloadable forms, articles about practically any tax subject and an online filing service called E-File. Many people ditch their pocket calculators and file their tax returns online, either through E-file or online services that partner with the IRS. While the E-file service is not free, those with an income less than $56,000 can check out FreeFile, the IRS’ no-cost equivalent. I was lured in by the promises of easy online filing. But as I soon discovered, filing your tax return online is anything but
MARK FREEMAN
ON
THE
NET
smooth. I first attempted to use TurboTax, a popular filing program available at TurboTax.com. TurboTax’s online edition lets you file a federal tax return for free and also identifies the amount of your refund. After asking several basic questions about my financial status, TurboTax went to work and walked me through different parts of my return. I was able to fill out information about my income, interest payments and other miscellaneous work I’d
Soccer, from page 13 program provides a quality soccer experience for children and adults age 5 and up whose physical or developmental challenges make it difficult to successfully participate on a mainstream team. About 80 people play in Concord AYSO VIP Challenger. Concord has one other youth soccer group which is not affiliated with a national organization. Liga Latina began more than a decade ago with soccer for mostly Hispanic families. The season runs spring through fall.
For information on Concord AYSO, call 685-AYSO or visit www.concordayso.org. For Diablo FC, call 798-GOAL or visit www.diablofc.org. Reach MDSA at 825-GOAL or www.mdsoccer.org. Contact WCSC at 930-0210 or www.wcsc.org.
done. But just when the end was in sight, TurboTax abruptly failed me. The program froze while I was trying to edit a part of my return. I started to get worried because I saw that TurboTax itself, not my Internet browser, was having this digital heart attack. However, I tried not to be overly concerned because TurboTax had assured me it was saving my progress with every click. Yet when I was finally able to log in, my entire return – which I’d spent 90 minutes on, had been erased. When queried about this incident, TurboTax’s customer support was not very helpful. I next turned to TaxCut, an online filing service from H&R Block located at TaxCut.com. Like TurboTax, the program told me how much money I should receive back from the federal government. It also offered a “roadmap” that allowed me to click back and forth between different parts of my tax return for easy editing. Alas, TaxCut’s interface was clunkier than TurboTax and often more annoying to use. For instance, when I left spaces blank in TaxCut, it would not let me continue until I had filled them in with zeroes. Similarly, TaxCut incorrectly calculated that I had contributed too much money into my Roth IRA and was prepared to charge me a 6 percent penalty. Unwilling to give Uncle Sam any more money than I had to, I decided to stop using the program. The lesson here is that it is
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probably better to purchase TurboTax or TaxCut and use the software from a CD rather than online. I would have highly recommended TurboTax if it weren’t for the risk of losing information. There’s also the time factor. I learned that because I have a simple tax return, I could have saved myself effort by filling out the 1040 EZ form – which is merely one sheet of paper. For taxpayers who are used to filling out paper forms, the IRS now lets you fill out some of its most common forms online for free. Just Google “Free File Fillable Forms” to connect to the right IRS Webpage. This Website provides digital versions of the IRS forms 1040 and the 1040 EZ, and then you can type in your answers. The forms will perform simple math operations and let you E-file for free. This option should be used by people who are familiar with the tax forms and do not need software like TurboTax to help figure out their tax status and other issues. Like the IRS, California offers a similar free service for its tax forms at ftb.ca.gov. Although tax season is not the jolliest time of the year, there’s still hope. Come April 15, you can surf the Web again for pleasure.
Mark Freeman is a student at St. Mary’s College in Moraga, studying economics and English. He enjoys creative writing and is a reporter for the school paper. Questions/comments can be sent to mfreeman543@gmail.com.
Page 15
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
March 6, 2009
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. MAR. 9 FOR THE MAR. 20 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT In Clayton March 6-8 Creekside Arts Celebration This fund-raiser supports environmental education programs in the Clayton Library’s certified wildlife habitat. Members from the Creekside Artists Guild will be among those selling and demonstrating their art forms. 68:30 p.m. March 6, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. March 7 and 1-5 p.m. March 8. Clayton LIbrary, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-0659 or www.claytonlibrary.org.
March 27-April 26 “Evita”
Diablo Valley Democratic Club
Contra Costa Musical Theatre’s biography of iconic Argentinean First Lady Eva Peron. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. www.ccmt.org or call 943-SHOW.
Meets 7 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek. March 18 features Pat Snyder championing the single payer bill in California. 946-0469 or www.dvdems.org.
Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise March 29 Diablo Symphony Featuring Anni Hochhalter, French horn player and winner of the symphony’s 2009 Yen Liang Young Artist Competition. 2 p.m., Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. www.diablosymphony.org or 9437469.
March 18 AAUW Spaghetti Dinner
AT THE LIBRARY
Meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Includes breakfast and a speaker. Contact Chuck at 689-7640 or www.claytonvalleyrotary.org.
Scrabble Club Meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. All ages and skill levels welcome. $3 fee. Call Mike at 639-1987 or www.scrabble-assoc.com.
Proceeds support scholarships, including Tech Trek for DVMS and CVHS. $10 adult, $5 6-12, under 6 free. 5:30-8 p.m., Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Call Carol at 672-2417 or Rhoda at 672-5024 for tickets.
The Clayton Community Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. 673-0659 or www.claytonlibrary.org.
March 12 Children’s Author Deborah Lee Rose
Widows/Widowers
April 25 Clayton Cleans Up
Rose will read some of her stories and present her new book, “The Twelve Days of Springtime” at 10:30 a.m. Sponsored by Clayton Community Library Foundation and Clayton Books.
Meets for dinner, brunch, theater, etc. This is not a dating service nor is it a greiving class - just a way to meet other people. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or lori@lorihagge.com.
The Clayton Pioneer is sponsoring this community effort to spiff up Clayton’s trails and streets. Pick up trash bags at City Hall. Great event for kids and adults. 9 a.m.-noon. Call Christina at 672-0500.
March 26-May 14 Picture Book Time
Sons In Retirement (SIR) Meets 11:15 a.m. first Thursday of the month, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. 429-3777.
NATURE
Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. 11 a.m. Thursdays.
March 22 50K Diablo Trail Run
March 31-May 12 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. 11 a.m. Tuesdays.
An ultra-marathon starting at Round Valley Regional Preserve in Brentwood, following the Diablo Trail to Castle Rock Park in Walnut Creek. The fund-raiser for Save Mount Diablo includes post-race lunch and Tshirts. Check in 7-7:45 a.m. $75, or $100 after March 10. 947-3535 or www.savemountdiablo.org.
March 6-22 “Above the Violet”
April 3-5 Clayton Library Used Book Sale
April 18 Three Springs Flower Walk
An OnStage fantasy for the entire family. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. www.onstagetheatre.org or 943-SHOW.
Most books $1. Sponsored by the Library Foundation. Preview for members 4-7 p.m. April 3 (you may join at the door for $10). Sale is 10 a.m.-5 p.m. April 4 and noon-4 p.m. April 5. Half price 2-4 p.m. Sunday.
Close by March 4-7 “A Raisin in the Sun” Based on Lorraine Hansberry’s move to an all-white neighborhood. 8 p.m. nightly. March 5 includes dinner at 6 p.m. Knox Center for the Performing Arts, Contra Costa College, San Pablo. 510-235-7800, ext. 4274.
March 8, 10 California Symphony A new orchestral work by Mason Bates and a solo performance by Stefan Jackiw. 4 p.m. March 8 and 7:30 p.m. March 10, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. www.LesherArtsCenter.org or 943SHOW.
Through March 15 “The Producers” Diablo Light Opera Company launches its 50th anniversary season with Mel Brooks’ blockbuster musical. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-7469 or www.lesherartscenter.org.
Through March 15 “Forever Plaid” A comic musical tribute to “guy groups” and hits of the ’50s. Willows Cabaret at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $20-30. 7981300 or www.willowstheatre.org.
March 19 Bookies Award Dinner A fund-raiser for Project Second Chance with author Annie Barrows of “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.” Dinner, plus live and silent auctions. 6 p.m. Lafayette Park Hotel, 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd. $50. 7235811.
March 20-21 “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Diablo Ballet, with the Ballet’s Apprentice and Professional Intermediate Program and Civic Arts Education. 7:30 p.m. both days, plus 2:30 p.m. children’s matinee March 21, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. 943-SHOW.
March 21-22 Guild of Quilters of Contra Costa Quilt Show The public can make blocks for quilts for the Quilts of Valor project. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. March 21 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 22, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. 370-8677 or www.contracostaquiltguild.org.
March 23-April 26 “On Golden Pond” The enduring relationship between a couple who’ve been together well over 50 years. Willows Theatre, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. 798-1300 or www.willowstheatre.com.
A mostly gentle hike led by Sue Watson. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Meet at MP14, pullout parking at top of grade on Marsh Creek Road, Clayton. Contact Sue at 254-4077 or sjwatson@att.net.
April 29-May 2 Four Days of Diablo
CLUBS Children’s Hospital Magnolia Branch Meets 7-9 p.m. the first Monday of the month in Concord. Contact Lori at 998-8844 or lori@lorihagge.com.
Take in the 39-mile Diablo Trail from Walnut Creek to Brentwood with a small group. Reservations required. www.savemountdiablo.org.
June 27 Diablo Trail Endurance Ride
Clayton Business and Community Association Meets 6:30 p.m. the last Thursday of the month, except holidays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Call Sue at 672-7272.
Save Mount Diablo offers its first recreational opportunity for equestrians on this 30-mile limited distance and 50-mile endurance ride that starts and finishes at Castle Rock Park in Walnut Creek. www.savemountdiablo.org.
Clayton/Concord VFW, Post 1525 Celebrate the 78th birthday of “The Star Spangled Banner” as our national anthem. Includes breakfast. $5. 8-11 a.m. March 8, Veterans Memorial Building, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Call Pete at 255-3449.
Clayton Valley Garden Club Meets 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Nancy Harvey will speak on plant propagation March 11. Call Dorthy at 672-2526.
Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. for coffee, 10 a.m. meetings, second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1090 Alberta Way, Concord. Call Joyce at 672-3850.
Contra Costa Blue Star Moms Meets 6:30 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month, Concord Police Dept., 1350 Galindo St. Blue Star Moms have children in the military. ccbluestarmoms.org.
Contra Costa Chess Club Meets 7-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck’s, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. Contact Mike at 639-1987 or www.uschess.org.
Contra Costa Mineral and Gem Society Meets 7:30 p.m. second Monday of the month, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. 674-7055 or http://home.comcast.net/~contracostamineralandgem/site.
SCHOOLS March 10 DVMS PFC 9 a.m., Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. 6720898.
March 17 MDES PFC 7 p.m., Mt. Diablo Elementary School, 5880 Mt. Zion Dr., Clayton. 6724840.
March 18 DVMS Eighth-Grade Celebration Committee 6 p.m., Diablo View Middle School Library, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. Contact Carla at 673-7212 or mckneer@aol.com.
March 24 Mt. Diablo Board of Education 7:30 p.m., Dent Center, 1936 Carlotta Dr., Concord. 682-8000 or www.mdusd.org.
April 3 Mt. Diablo Elementary School Dinner/Dance “House of Blues” fundraiser, including auction. Tickets are $50. 5 p.m., Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road, Concord. beth.rutledge@proforma.com.
GOVERNMENT
Diablo Valley Macintosh Users Group Meets 6:30-9 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. Bert Monroy presents Photoshop digital art March 17. Bancroft Elementary School, 2700 Parish Dr., Walnut Creek. 689-1155 or www.dvmug.org.
March 10, 17, 24, 31 County Board of Supervisors 9 a.m., County Administration Building, 651 Pine St., Room 107, Martinez. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us or 335-1900.
March 10, 24 Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Clayton Library Meeting Room, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or www.ci.clayton.ca.us.
Clayton Community Recreation All events are at the Clayton YMCA, 700 Gym Court, unless otherwise noted. For registration information, visit mdrymca.org or call 889-1600. Babysitter Training: Participants will receive a YMCA Certificate of Completion. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. March 28. $50. Kids Night Out: Bring the kids down for an evening of fun while parents have a night out. Dinner and snacks provided. 5-9 p.m. March 28. $20 Clayton residents; $25 non-residents.
Youth T-ball: Preschool-first grade. All practices and games are played for one hour on Saturdays at local fields and gyms. April 25-June 13. $113 Clayton residents; $123 non-residents. Junior Volleyball: Sixth-through eighth grade. For beginning to intermediate players. Practices and matches are played for one hour on Saturdays. April 25-June 13. $113 Clayton residents; $123 non-residents.
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Page 17
Bridal Fair is the perfect planning tool for big day LISI DENNIS Special to the Pioneer
Bridal season is quickly approaching. Although it’s a fun and exciting time, it can be stressful for the bride and groom. This is especially true if they are acting as their own bridal consultant and planner. While a professional can help keep your wedding plan focused and you have the advantage of pulling from their extensive vendor lists, there are many alternatives for the bride who wants to do it on her own. Local bridal shows are one of the best resources for wedding planning. “Bridal shows are probably the best tools you can use as a busy bride to plan your wedding,” notes Julia Markel of the Association for Wedding
Planners International. “These shows are exciting, festive and full of great ideas. You get to talk directly with the professionals, see samples of their work and get an idea of what costs are involved.” Often the most important element in planning your wedding is finding vendors who share your sense of style. Having the opportunity to meet several vendors at one time is one of the greatest benefits of attending a bridal show. There are two local bridal shows in the next few weeks. The Oakhurst Bridal Show will be 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Vendors include DJs, live music providers, florists and jewelers. To plan your trans-
portation in style, you will want to visit the limo, specialty car and carriage services at the show. And for that critically important permanent record, several photographers will be on hand. There will be an informal fashion show and a workshop in
La Veranda Café
wedding planning. You will have an opportunity to taste several choices in wine, food and wedding cake. This free show is open to the public. For more information, call 672-9737, ext. 217. Also coming up is the Trade Secrets Party and Wedding Faire on April 5 at the Hilton Hotel in Concord. This is the largest and most elegant bridal show in Contra Costa County. For more information, contact Nate Walling at 866-532-6166. The key to getting the most out of a bridal show is to be prepared. Have your calendar and planner with you, bring fabric swatches so you can discuss your colors with florists and other professionals and bring a checkbook so you can take advantage of the show specials.
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ETERNAL LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH The church will host two midweek Lenten services at 7 p.m. March 11 and 25. This year’s Lenten theme is “Father, Forgive Them.” Fellowship suppers precede the services at 6 p.m. at the Contra Costa Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Road, Concord. For more information, call 524-0295 or visit www.EternalLifeLutheranChur ch.org.
Book addresses hunger in America With the biting wit of “Super Size Me” and the passion of a lifelong activist, Joel Berg has his eye on the growing number of people who are forced to wait in lines at food pantries and soup kitchens across the nation. His book “All You Can Eat: How Hungry Is America?” reveals that hunger is a problem as American as apple pie and shows what it is like when your income is not enough to cover rising housing and living costs and put food on the table. The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano and Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church are hosting a free Bay Area book launch at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at Clayton Books, 5433 D Clayton Road. For more information, visit http://joelberg.net or call Clayton Books at 673-3325.
CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Rev. Gail Doering will be installed as pastor at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 8. Officials from the Presbytery of San Francisco will attend, along with other pastors, church leaders, the congregation and clergy from area churches. The service will be followed by a reception dinner in Fellowship Hall. Doering has been temporary pastor for the last year and a half while a nationwide search was
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BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON All are invited to a talk and evening of fellowship. The subject of the talk is “God Speaks Again: Is Anyone Listening?” The speaker is Bob Henderson, who holds a bachelor’s in psychology. He has been a law enforcement officer for 15 years and prior to that, he was a juvenile probation officer. The program starts at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Toloui home in Clayton. For more information, call 6726686.
6201 Center St. Clayton
conducted. The personnel committee determined that Doering was the best candidate for the position. She is a graduate of San Jose State and the San Francisco Theological Seminary. She is married and the mother of two teen daughters. The family lives in Lafayette. The church is at 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. For more information, call 672-4848.
ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL PARISH The church is observing Lent with a series of reflections on faith and the current economy, entitled “What Do You Hold On To When Things Are Falling Apart?” Each Sunday through Easter Day, the sermons will focus on a particular aspect of the economic situation and what the Christian faith has to teach us about it. Services are at 8 and 10 a.m., with Church School and nursery care at 10 a.m.
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HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH The Nifty Fifty Seniors invite seniors to a Bunco Party Bash at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, in the Social Hall, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. After the games, members will lunch at Fiore Restaurant, 5100 Clayton Road, Concord. RSVP on the sheet in the Social Hall. For more information, call 686-2000 or visit www.holycrossconcord.org.
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If you cannot attend, we are happy to get books signed for you.
Clayton Books Schedule of Mar. events at
03/10 Tues. at 4pm . . . . .Elisa Kleven, children's author & illustrator presents her new book, “A Carousel Tale” and will teach children how to make their own carousels 03/12 Thurs. at 7pm . . . .James Morrow, author of “Shambling Towards Hiroshima” and “The Philosopher’s Apprentice.” 03/15 Sun. at 3pm . . . . . .Tilar Mazzeo, author of “Back Lane Wineries of Sonoma County,” followed by a free wine tasting at The Wine Thieves. 03/17 Tues. at 7pm . . . . .Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Rose Murphy, author of “Ella Young”, “Irish Mystic and Rebel: From Literary Dublin to the American West.” Ella Young was an Irish storyteller who collected stories from the west of Ireland and brought them to California. 03/19 Thurs. at 7pm . . . .Gordon Pimm, bestselling Canadian author of “Leo’s War.” Exclusive U.S. appearance. 03/22 Sun. at 3pm . . . . . .Peter Beagle, presents his new book “We Never Talk About My Brother.”
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
March 6, 2009
Movie Review “A SHADE BETTER” Arborist Reports Consulting Crane Services Firewood
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Forget all that Oscar nonsense and get thee to a chick flick Oh, winter. The critical darlings conclude their pre-Oscar parades, but it will still be months before the explosive summer blockbusters. What is a studio to do with all these audiences who have nothing better to do on rainy/snowy winter weekends? Well, they rub their devilish hands together and release the films we wouldn’t have bothered to see otherwise. For the first time since last summer’s “Sex and the City” extravaganza, there are a rash of chick flicks on the big screen. None are particularly good, but they make for an excellent diversion when it’s pouring buckets outside. “Confessions of a Shopaholic” is based on the ridiculously successful series by British novelist Sophie Kinsella (though she did not write the screenplay). At its core, it’s about a woman struggling with an addiction. The comedy comes from her vice: couture. Starring the impossibly adorable Isla Fisher (“The Wedding Crashers”) and Hugh Dancy (“The Jane Austen Book Club”), the movie handles the familiar issues of debt, bill collectors and the downward spiral of spending with sometimes cringe-inducing hilarity. Designed by Patricia Field (of “Sex and the City” fame), the
JEANNA ROSS
AT THE MOVIES
Photo credit: Claire Folger.
ANNE HATHAWAY, KATE HUDSON Pictures’ Bride Wars (2009)
AND
clothes are fabulous, the antics outrageous and the characters lovable. “Shopaholic” is definitely a fun afternoon with the girls and a useful lesson for anyone with an unhealthy addiction to their AmEx card in these troubling financial times. “He’s Just Not That Into You” is another “Sex and the City” derivative, based on the self-help book by Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo that got its name from an episode of that HBO series. The plot centers around the horrors that people commit upon themselves in pursuit of love, with a
STEVE HOWEY in Fox 2000
healthy cast of Hollywood B-listers including Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Connelly, Drew Barrymore, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Aniston. The story is told by Gigi, played by Ginnifer Goodwin of “Big Love” fame, so the bigger names are really peripheral. But if you have a favorite among the cast, there is enough of each of them to fulfill adoration requirements. The story is about 40 minutes too long and tries to accomplish too much, but the intertwining plot lines create a comprehensive picture of the stupid stuff we’ve all done –
enough to enable us to recognize ourselves, past and present, in the characters. While not the most engaging of works, the film strikes a chord. It’s a Netflix chord, though, not a run-to-the-cinema chord. Save it for next winter’s rainy day. There’s a third chick-lit film out this winter: “Bride Wars” starring Oscar-nominee Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson. The film scored a whopping 12 percent at Rotten Tomatoes, so apparently it would have been an act of extreme masochism to endure it. Two girls destroying their friendship and pulling their lives apart because they can’t have the venue they desire for their weddings? Really? We all know bridezillas exist, but remorseless spoiled brats aren’t exactly high entertainment. And, of course, the Oscar nominees are still in residence. Jeanna Ross is an English teacher at Clayton Valley High School and a free lance writer. She regularly contributes to the Pioneer. Send comments to her at movies@claytonpioneer.com.
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Yoga, in all its myriad variations, seems such a wise practice. Go within. Calm yourself. Twist your legs into a pretzel and focus on your breath. It is at once ridiculously simple and the hardest trick on the planet. But yoga honed in a cushy little studio down the street from a latte bar in San Francisco is nothing like the real deal performed in the austere ashrams of India. Or so we learn in Anne Cushman’s first novel, “Enlightenment for Idiots.” Life is pretty good, if not
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nearly perfect, for San Francisco freelance writer and practicing yogini Amanda. She churns out books with titles like “RV Camping for Idiots” and “The California Wine Country for Idiots” and practices yoga like a maniac. She’s so tuned in, she even teaches yoga. It is at one such tuning-in session that Amanda meets fellow yoga practitioner Matt, a guy who is cute and smart yet completely relationship phobic and totally wrong for her. In the first chapters of “Enlightenment,” we’re exposed to the excruciating, humiliating riptides of Matt and Amanda’s dysfunctional affair. We know she loves him. We understand that sometimes the heart has a mind of its own and can’t help falling in love. We know Matt’s no good for Amanda. Lori, Amanda’s best friend, knows that what Matt offers is selfish and insufficient. Even Amanda knows Matt is bad news, but somehow she can’t bring herself to make the break. And then fate intervenes.
Don’t you love it when that happens? Amanda takes an assignment to write another book: “Enlightenment for Idiots.” It’s a dream assignment with a cash advance: Go to India, study with the masters of enlightenment in the land of the lotus and report it all in breezy, bitesized, easy-todigest pieces in “idiot” format. But there’s a spider on the Valentine – isn’t there always? Just before she flies off to ripe, rich, fecund India, Matt and Amanda, having broken up for the 100th time, reunite for a moment of passion. We’re thrilled that Amanda is leaving the country – at last, she is on her personal road to enlightenment. But India is not what Amanda expected, and illumination is doggedly deceptive. She blows out a knee doing a particularly strenuous form of yoga. The hotels are filthy, and the country is overrun with sunny, sun-tanned Americans looking for enlightenment as if it’s an accessory for their 3G
Tech Talk, from page 9 server market; in are the ideas which increase speed and remove all obstacles hindering speed. This new chip is quite remarkable, with nearly 800 million transistors on the dye. The traces are so tiny that at 45 nanometers (45nm), it takes a microscope to see them. The i7 is built on the Core 2 Duo platform, which means more than one CPU exists in each chip. In this case, the i7 is a quad core – with four CPUs in one package.
The package looks similar to any CPU package, but under the hood is some real power. Previous chips used front side bus architecture (FSB) to move data bits from main memory (RAM) to the CPU and back again. This process can get bogged down, similar to a toll booth on the Bay Bridge. Intel removed the FSB and replaced it with QPI. This provides a wider and faster path to memory, like a main line to memory without all the arcane control processes that used to hinder
iPhones. The bright spot in her arrival to the land of enlightenment is Devi Das, a skinny, red-haired, dreadlocked fellow Yank, who refers to himself in the third person and adopts Amanda – looking after her heart and soul with an endearing loyalty. I won’t give away the ending of “Enlightenment for Idiots”; like transcendence, it’s something you’ll have to work to discover. Though becoming more mainstream, yoga has a reputation for being slightly kooky – and Amanda is the poster child for kooky. But you’ll fall in love with her and her pursuit of love, happiness and enlightenment. There is a saying that goes like this: “Before enlightenment, chop wood and carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood and carry water.” Enlightenment – it’s never what you think it is. Cynthia Gregory is a local writer who has won numerous awards for her short fiction. Her work has appeared in Glimmer Train Press, the Red Rock Review, Writer’s Digest, The Sun, The Ear, Santa Barbara Review, Black River Review, Briarcliff Review, Chicago Tribune, Bon Appetit, and the Herb Quarterly. You can write her at ceegregory@aol.com.
the speed along the bus. Intel has launched three new Core i7 products, at 2.66GHz, 2.93GHz and 3.20GHz, with prices starting at $285 (CPU only). You’ll need a new motherboard and new DDR-3 triplechannel memory, but your investment will be worth it. Don’t expect the latest computers using these i7 CPUs to be cheap or plentiful, but you may want to check out your favorite professional, licensed, Intelapproved, local computer dealer. Will Claney is the CEO of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-6729989.
March 6, 2009
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 19
Clayton’s hillsides are perfect spots for Grevillea
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL Grevillea is a family of plants native to Australia. They thrive in heat, love the sun, demand poor, thin soils, are deer-resistant and do not tolerate fertilizer. The plants range in height from groundcovers to trees, so there is something for every application. These pretty evergreens have blooms that are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Grevillea is easy to find, long-living and a must have for Clayton Valley landscapes. Bonfire is a robust selection
with feathery, fine-cut leaves that provide texture and interest. Bonfire will reach 4-6 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. The flowers resemble curled, two-lipped blossoms, born in clusters of 8-10. They are incredibly showy, shiny and deep rose red. Hummingbirds cannot resist these blossoms. Bonfire will make an excellent hillside addition – perfect for the slopes of Dana Hills, Oakhurst, upper Easley and Crystal Ranch. When considering installing this shrub, a complementary plant could be Teucrium Azurea, with its smallish leaves and icy-gray foliage for contrast. The frosty blue blossoms would cool down the look of this landscape. Another application could be an informal hedge. Using Grevillea this way would be a more unique consideration than the obvious choices of Photinia fraseri or Escallonia Fradesii. PRETTY IN PINK Grevillea rosmarinifolia Dwarf Form is a shrubby, arch-
Grevillea to soften the burgundy blades of the Yucca Palm called Red Star. SCARLET PLANT A CLEAR WINNER
GREVILLEA SCARLET KING
ing groundcover that can reach 23 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The leaves are soft, resembling rosemary. They are dark green with a slightly lighter underside. The Dwarf Form has an extremely showy pink and cream flower. They will line the outside of this evergreen in the spring and again in the fall. Dwarf Form loves full sun, yet will tolerate some shade. It may get damaged from frost if
temperatures dip below 25 degrees. This selection would be a nice addition to a sloping landscape, because the bloom is prettiest when seen from below. Use this
Grevillea Scarlet Sprite is a mounding, rounded evergreen. Scarlet Sprite will reach 4 feet tall and 8 feet wide. This selection has fine-textured, needled leaves that look tough but will not hurt when you touch them. Rose pink, spidery flower clusters appear almost year-round. Scarlet Sprite is absolutely deer-proof. Companion plants to consider are Ceanothus Ray Hartman and Fremontodendron Pacific Sunset. Ceanothus Ray Hartman has a dark green, textured leaf and cobalt-blue clusters of flowers during the spring and again in
the fall. Fremontodendron Pacific Sunset is commonly called the flannel bush. The hardy, longlived shrub will grow to heights of 12-15 feet, creating a multitrunk, small tree look. With these three shrubs repeated along a hillside, you will have foliage and flowers all year. This plant family is just the answer for anyone considering landscape-worthy plants this season. The sooner you plant, the more free water you can utilize. Once established, Grevillea need nothing. Just sit back and enjoy.
Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
Willows Theatre in close harmony with ‘Forever Plaid’ JEANNA ROSS Clayton Pioneer
Old-fashioned theater. Check. Old-fashioned cabaret style. Check. Old-fashioned doo-wop show. Check. It’s official - the combination of “Forever Plaid” and the Willows’ Campbell Theatre in Martinez is a perfect marriage of art and venue. This four-man show centers around a 1960s singing group who were tragically cut off, not in their prime but before they could even begin. They are granted one chance to perform the show they never saw realized and perhaps fulfill their destiny, thereby escaping the rigors of afterlife limbo. Directed and choreographed by the star of last season’s “Little Shop of Horrors,” Ricardo Rust, the quartet of “Forever Plaid” puts on quite a show for four guys who were en route to a gig at an airport bar when they met their demise. Andrew Willis-Woodward leads the group as Frankie, a stereotypical pretty boy leader who cuts a
Photo by Judy Potter FOREVER PLAID, A TRIBUTE TO 50S “GUY GROUPS,”
plays at the Willows Cabaret in Martinez, through Mar. 15. L-R: Tony Panighetti, Andrew WillisWoodward, Robert K. Dornaus III, Chris Purdy.
mean figure in a dinner jacket. He’s cute, that’s for sure, but the script gives him little to work with until his eleventh-hour cheerleader monologue. Still, Willis-Woodward is polished and suave. What the script lacks in meat, he more than makes up for in sweet, enthusiastic optimism. Tony Panighetti (Sparky), last seen on the same stage in “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change,” provides much of the goofy comic relief. His wide-eyed innocence (and enthusiasm for all things Perry Como) are like a reminder of all that was wonderful about the bygone era. Robert K. Dornaus III is the first tenor, and his bell tones are the object of much audience awe and envy. His Jinx spends the vast majority of the time looking befuddled, but he truly shines on “Cry,” proving that even the boys with high, delicate voices can rock out with the best of them. Finally, Christopher Purdy displays the most surprising array of talents as Smudge. Purdy’s moment to shine comes whenever the songs allow him to display his impressive bass, particularly on the Tennessee Ernie Ford hit “Sixteen Tons.” However, his voice is just one of the plethora of tricks he holds up his sleeve. Watch him carefully to see this piano virtuoso, fire eater, and juggler at work. The playlist of “Forever Plaid” reads like a list of Top 40 hits from the 1950s and ‘60s. Some of the more familiar include “Catch a Falling Star,” “Day-O,” “Love is a Many Splendored Thing,” and even a delightful doo-wop version of the Beatles’ “She Loves You.” Audiences will be hard pressed not to want to hum along to their favorites. The onstage hijinks are only part of the fun. The production completely ignores the fourth wall from the outset and invites the viewers in on the fun for a brief sing-along, as well as a spirited rendition of “Heart and Soul.” If the rest of the performances play as well as the hilarity of opening night, audiences are certainly in for a treat. “Forever Plaid” plays at the Campbell Theatre in Martinez through March 15.
For more information, call (925) 798-1300 or visit willowstheatre.com.
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Financial, from page 7 go through probate. That means your plan will become a matter of public record and your named beneficiaries – as well as anyone legally entitled to a share of your wealth – will be notified and given an opportunity to object in probate court. In most states, you can avoid probate by using a revocable trust. Without probate, there’s no notice requirement or opportunity to be heard in court, so someone would have to file a lawsuit to challenge your estate plan. For a revocable trust to be effective, you must transfer title to all of your assets to the trust, including any assets you acquire after you establish the trust. Consider making bequests that include a “no-contest” clause. Essentially, this clause says that if a beneficiary challenges your will or trust, he or she forfeits the bequest. For a no-contest clause to work, the bequest must be large enough to deter the person from risking an
unsuccessful challenge. STRONG DEFENSES If your estate plan is unconventional or you plan to disinherit one or more family members, it may be difficult to avoid a challenge. And even if your plan is the epitome of fairness, it’s not always easy to predict who might feel slighted. Most wills that are contested involve claims of undue influence or lack of testamentary capacity – though fraud and invalid execution also may be grounds for a challenge. One of the best ways to establish your testamentary capacity is to undergo a “mini mental state examination” or have a medical practitioner attest to your competence. The examination should be conducted near the time you execute the will – on the same day, if possible. Choose the right witnesses. Witnesses should be people you expect to still be alive and easily
located years or even decades later – and they shouldn’t be beneficiaries of the will. Ideally, they will be familiar enough with you and your family that they can attest to your testamentary capacity and freedom from undue influence. Videotaping the execution of your will can be an effective way to demonstrate your competence. It also gives you an opportunity to discuss the reasoning or motives behind your estate plan and refute any potential claims of undue influence. Obviously, no one who stands to benefit from your will should be present. Be sure to plan your statements carefully so that nothing you say can be misinterpreted. Also, for this strategy to work, you should be comfortable with the recording process. The last thing you want is for viewers to mistake discomfort for duress or confusion. Richard A. Littorno is an attorney specializing in estate planning. He has offices in Clayton and Pittsburg. Send your questions to Richard@LittornoLaw.com
Page 20
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March 6, 2009
Peanut butter: Is it safe to go back to the jar? March is National Peanut Month. Unfortunately, it arrives in the midst of a massive salmonella outbreak. This is a disaster in a country that consumes more than 700 million pounds of peanut butter each year. The good news is that m a j o r brands like Skippy, Jif, Smucker’s a n d Adams h a v e posted Internet advisories noting that they do not s o u r c e peanuts from the Peanut Corp. of America. The bad news is that more than 2,500 other foods have been recalled. You can see a list at www.accessdata.fda.gov. The widespread recall affects major purveyors. Southern California Whole Foods stores withdrew their bulk self-serve peanut butter, and Costco sent out notices to customers who purchased Zone Bars and a Bear Naked product. Even Espresso Dulce de Leche under the Barefoot Contessa label has been recalled. Lesser-known products are also affected. I regret to inform you that Chicken Coop Poop and Deer Droppings are temporarily unavailable. Peanut butter is a uniquely American food, but its prominence is only about 100 years old. True, peanuts and various
sauces based on peanuts date back to antiquity, and it’s likely that Peru was the birthplace of the legume. Peanuts are not nuts – they’re related to lentils, peas and beans. In 1890, a St. Louis doctor developed peanut butter as a protein substitute for h i s patients with bad teeth. It was soon b e i n g promoted as a health food. The Kellog g brothers of cereal fame went mainstream with the product in the early 20th century, although there were deterrents to the widespread adoption of peanut butter. For one, the butter was made from steamed peanuts, instead of the roasted ones – and roasting makes it far more appetizing. Second, the oily top that formed on peanut butter was considered unappetizing. In the 1930s, a California packer created a process that homogenized the spread, and shelf-stable Skippy Churned Peanut Butter was created. For those who thrive on statistics, one acre of peanuts will make some 30,000 peanut butter sandwiches, and it takes about 550 peanuts to make a 12oz. jar of the creamy stuff. Easterners (like most women and children) prefer creamy
peanut butter, while Westerners (and men) go for the chunky variety. Fully 96 percent of people will spread peanut butter on bread before adding the jelly to the PB&J sandwich. But do you know why peanut butter sticks to the roof of your mouth? (See answer below.) Meanwhile, peanut shells do more than litter bar and sports arena floors – they can be found in kitty litter, wallboard, fireplace logs, paper, animal feed and even, on occasion, as fuel for power plants. Peanut butter is a cholesterol and transfat-free product. Not only a good source of protein, peanuts provide Vitamin E, niacin, folate, phosphorus and magnesium. Recent studies found that peanut butter also contains resveratrol (also found in red wine). The antioxidant is believed to have strong anti-cancer properties. PEANUT SAUCE FOR GRILLED BEEF, CHICKEN OR SHRIMP ½ tsp. minced fresh ginger 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 c. peanut butter 2 T. chicken stock or water 1 T. soy sauce 2 tsp. chili oil Lime juice to taste 2 T. honey 1 T. cilantro, finely minced Whisk together all ingredients. Can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. Use as a marinade or sauce for 1-1½ lbs. grilled beef, pork, chicken, shrimp and even veggie kabobs. PEANUT BUTTER SALAD DRESSING ¾ c. rice wine vinegar 2 T. apple juice concentrate
georgevujnovich.com
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
2 T. reduced-sodium soy sauce 1 T. minced ginger 1 clove garlic, minced 1/3 c. peanut butter Whisk together ingredients and serve over a bed of mixed lettuce. Add rice noodles, shredded cabbage or chow mein noodles for crunch. ADULTS-ONLY PEANUT BUTTER SHAKE (Serves 2) This warm-weather treat has a special kick! 1 c. vanilla ice cream ¼ c. Godiva chocolate liqueur ¼ c. vodka (or vanillainfused vodka) ¼ c. creamy peanut butter ½ c. milk Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. You can add up to a cup of ice to make the drink more slushy. (So, why does peanut butter stick to the roof of your mouth? Its high protein content absorbs moisture. There’s even a word for the fear of having this happen: arachibutyrophobia.)
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
Tel: (925) 672-4433
Trust your home to
GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517 CLAYTON!
CLAYTON!
Bridlewood! Stunning Single Story! tucked on away in a court setting with views of Mt. Diablo & hills! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,665sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Upgraded tile flooring & neutral carpet throughout! Large separate formal dining room with slider to courtyard. Living room with plantation shutters & upgraded ceiling fan. Huge gourmet kitchen boasts slab granite counters, center island, prep area & butler’s pantry, stainless steel appliances, upgraded tile floors & dining area. Oversized family room features media recess & gas fireplace. Spacious master suite & lavish master bath with upgraded marble tub surround & separate stall shower. Totally private lot with in-round “Pebble-Tech” pool with waterfall feature, aggregate patio, palm trees, lawn area & side yard with RV/Boat parking. Irreplaceable! $729,000
Silvercreek! Beautifully Maintained! spacious home in a quiet court setting with views of Mt. Diablo & surrounding hills! 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,398sf, inside laundry & 2 car attached garage with indoor pet run with exterior access. Step down living room with views! Formal dining room with slider to deck & pool. Eat-in kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances & tile counters overlooks pool area. Downstairs bedroom/den. Huge family room with fireplace, wet bar & slider to deck. Great backyard offers privacy & boasts a sparkling in-ground pool, separate spa area, extensive decking with built-in benches, workshop, plus a large side yard! $649,000 ALAMO!
CLAYTON!
Sensational Single Story! on a HUGE approximately 17,200 sq. ft. lot! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2041sf. The house for the car enthusiast or hobbiest! Two 2 car garages plus extensive RV/side yard parking with dual gates. Updated kitchen features Corian counters, newer cabinets & appliances. Large family room with brick fireplace & slider to yard. Separate formal dining room with French doors. Large master suite with dual closets. Walk to school & downtown. Fabulous lot offers privacy, mature landscape, lush lawn area & extensive patio areas. $635,000
Westside! Stunning Single Story in a phenomenal/peaceful wooded setting! on a HUGE .46 acre lot! 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 2,017sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage plus extensive side yard parking. Completely updated & upgraded from top to bottom, too extensive to list! Slab granite kitchen with top of the line stainless steel appliances! Spacious master with luxurious bath. Huge private lot boasts over 5000sf of custom paver patios, rolling lawn & multiple water features. Incredible-Must see! $1,199,000
Clayton Market Update provided by
CLAYTON!
Oakhurst Country Club! Oak Hollow! Prime Golf Course Location! Desirable “Santa Fe” model! 3 bedrooms, with loft, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,911sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Living room & dining room feature gleaming hardwood floors. Kitchen features marble tile floors, white tile counters & island, nook with views of golf course & hills. Family room with marble tile floors & fireplace. Spacious master with hardwood floors $499,000 overlooks golf course & hills. Cozy patio backs to golf course with views! CONCORD!
Adorable updated & expanded home!
On a quiet country court with RV/Boat parking! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths approx. 1452sf, with 2 car garage. Updated kitchen features slab granite counters, newer appliances and maple cabinets, opens to cozy family room with natural slate fireplace. Updated hall bath. HUGE master bedroom with vaulted ceiling, sitting area & French doors to yard. Updated master bath offers dual sinks & oversized stall shower. Dual pane windows & decorator paint. $399,950
George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
BED/BATH
3027 Windmill Canyon Dr 420 Leon Court 5012 Keller ridge Drive 129 Joscolo View 250 Jeffry Ranch Pl 260 Stranahan Cir 1183 Shell Lane 379 Blue Oak Lane 320 Ahwanee Lane 2 Donner Creek Ct 10 Mount Rainier Ct 80 Nottingham Cir 1855 Eagle Peak Ave
$620,000 $1,122,500 $475,000 $521,250 $564,500 $440,000 $380,000 $853,888 $768,000 $325,000 $559,000 $500,000 $520,000
02/10/09 1/29/09 1/23/09 1/22/09 1/14/09 12/31/08 12/30/08 12/30/08 12/24/08 12/19/08 12/18/08 12/18/08 12/10/08
2467 5800 1343 1877 2017 1663 1145 3454 2966 1457 1919 2206 1877
4/3 6/4.5 3/2 3/2.5 4/2.5 3/2.5 2/2 5/3.5 4/3 3/2.5 4/2 4/2 3/2.5