JAN 14 Clayton Pioneer 2010.pdf by Pioneer Publishers

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

January 14, 2011

925.672.0500

New museum exhibit speaks frankly about Clayton’s history TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

DAVE SHUEY

MAYOR’S CORNER Starting the year with wit and care. Happy New Year! By the time you read this, the 8th annual “Clayton Counts Down” celebration will have come and gone like Father Time. If past history is any indication, it will have been another great success sponsored by the city and All Out Sports League. Generous donors were Allied Waste, Jim Webb, Mike’s Auto Body, Travis Credit Union, Comcast, the Clayton Club, Turner, Huguet & Adams, Clayton Patch, Diablo View Cleaning, Doug van Wyck State Farm Insurance and the Clayton Pioneer. The event was put together by an amazing, but small, group of dedicated city employees and

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

COUSINS JANET EASTON (LEFT) AND CHARMETTA MANN descended from Elizabeth and Frederick Frank who settled in Clayton 135 years ago. The Frank family history is the subject of the newest exhibit, Frankly Speaking, which opens at the Clayton Museum on Sunday, January 16.

If you don’t know her already, you’ve surely seen her around town. She’s tall and lean—her face tanned to a soft buckskin and creased by decades of sunshine and Marlboros. Her wiry arms are muscled by a lifetime of ranch work. She’s 70 and she can still stack four cords of firewood by herself. Her laugh is huge and infectious and she’s never met a stranger. Her roots reach as deep into Clayton soil as the stately oak that stands in the front yard of her 135-year-old ranch on Pine Hollow Court. She’s Charmetta Mann and her family digest reads like the local Thomas Brothers Guide. Russelmann, Bigelow, Bloching, Mitchell, Morgan, Trette, Myrick, Denkinger, Dana, Easton, Gehringer, Herriman

See Frank Exhibit, page 8

See Mayor, page 11

No Clayton schools on school closure list

Clayton players share De La Salle football glory JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

Much to the relief of parents of the nearly 1,300 children who attend Mt. Diablo Elementary and Diablo View Middle schools, both sites seem to have dodged the bullet of school closures – at least temporarily. Due to ongoing budget reductions, the Mt. Diablo Unified School District formed a School Closures Committee last September to come up with recommendations as to which schools to close in an effort to save $15 million over the next 10 years. On Dec. 13, the committee

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See Closure, page 7

Photo by Jay Bedecarré

FIVE PLAYERS FROM CLAYTON WERE PART OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP De La Salle football team. They included, from left, T.J. Brassil, Blake Simons, Luke Simeona and Trevor Christiansen. Not pictured, Zac Byers.

De La Salle High School won its second straight CIF Open Division Bowl Game last month at Home Depot Center in Carson and five Clayton boys are now able to call themselves state champions as members of the Spartan football team. De La Salle is the only school to take part all five years of the CIF Bowl Games and scored their most impressive championship game victory with a 48-8 tri-

umph over Servite of Anaheim. Leading the way for the local contingent was Special Teams Captain Luke Simeona, who was a “beast and demon as the wedge buster on the kickoff team,” according to DLS Assistant Coach Terry Eidson of Concord in his 30th season assisting legendary Spartan head coach Bob Ladouceur. Simeona was in his third year on varsity but maximized his opportunity this past fall after injury-plagued sophomore and junior seasons. The 6-0, 212-pounder was the

starting left tackle and was named to the All-East Bay Athletic League and All-East Bay teams. Seniors Zac Byers, a wide receiver, and lineman Blake Simons both had injuries that limited their playing time this year. Simons played early in the schedule before a neck injury knocked him out for most of the season. Byers broke his collarbone during the summer, recovered to return to action but then

See Spartans, page 13

Last minute efforts save Clayton Counts Down TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

The city’s New Year’s Eve celebration very nearly didn’t happen this year. The alcohol-free family event depends solely on volunteers and donations to cover the $6,800 cost. As late as the first week in December, both fell far short of the minimum needed. But, in true Clayton fashion, the community stepped up. Last minute volunteers and donations pulled the event back from the cliff and more than 500 kids and parents celebrated the close of 2010 at the Clayton Counts Down at the Clayton Community Gym. In keeping with this year’s

theme of Carnival 2010, the decorated mask contest was the biggest draw. Scores of kids lined up at long tables piled high with crafts, yarns and glue. Evelyn Lewis, 5, who has spent her “whole life in Clayton,” held up a marvel of feathers, glitter and rhinestones. “It’s pretty and beautiful,” she said, admiring her handiwork. Downstairs, there was shuffleboard, pinball, bean-bag toss and other carnival games. Madison York, 6, won the Gone Fishing pinball game twice in a row the first time she played. “The best part is winning,” she said. Upstairs, “Toy Story 3” ran

See Counts Down, page 2

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Car Tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Church News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

KIDS WAIT IN SUSPENSE FOR THE JUDGE’S DECISION in the Mask Decorating Contest at Clayton Counts Down on New Year’s Eve. Winners in three divisions won movie tickets.

Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Community Calendar . . . . . . . . . . .15 Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . .5 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Fit with Levity (NEW) . . . . . . . . . .14 Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 For the Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 From the Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Pioneer Photo Album . . . . . . . . . . .16 Real Answers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 14, 2011

Around Town

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Counts Down, from page 1

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into overtime and had to be cut short. “Don’t worry,” said one parent. “They’ve all seen it at least three times, anyway.” In the gym, little kids bounced in the Monkey House or slid down the inflatable slide while others played floor hockey. In the kitchen, Julie Pierce manned the microwave, popping bag after bag of free popcorn, only burning one bag. Outside, shrouded in smoke, the BBQ crew turned out hundreds of hamburgers and hot

dogs as others warmed their hands over the grill. “My dogs are gonna love me when I get home,” said BBQmeister Craig Johnson. Johnson was joined at the grill by Dave Shuey, Marc MacAuley and Howard Geller. Other cities have not been lucky enough to keep their free New Year’s Eve celebrations. Martinez was forced to cancel their First Night celebration for lack of money for the second year in a row.

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1. Claire McDonough, 6, and her sister Ellie, 3, work off some holiday energy in the Monkey House; 2. Taylor Thompson, Mary Jernigan and Karen Oliver of the Girl Scouts Diablo Shadow Service Unit help out at the crafts table; 3. Dan Richardson and Hank Stratford warm up at the BBQ grill; 4. Nicholas McBride, 8, at the pinball game; 5. Hope Hoffmeister, 8, works on her mask; 6. BBQ-chefs Marc MacAuley, Howard Geller, Dave Shuey and Craig Johnson

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January 14, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page 3

Around Town Anna Gibbons and Samuel Potter wed

Samuel Potter and Anna Gibbons were married in a garden wedding in the shadow of Mt. Diablo at the Club Los Meganos in Brentwood on July 9. The evening ceremony was followed by gourmet hors d’oeuvres, dancing till midnight, a gelato bar, and hometown fireworks in the distance. Anna is the daughter of Susan Lamb Gibbons and the late Douglas Gibbons of Clayton, and the granddaughter of Jack and Nancy Lamb and Gib Gibbons of Brentwood. She was escorted down the aisle by her brother, Brant Gibbons. The bride wore a beaded, ivory lace gown complimented by a flowing lace train and a vintagestyle bouquet in hand.

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the specialty olive oils and mouthwatering foccacia bread. “Father Mangini has been our biggest supporter. He even came and blessed the restaurant before we opened.” Homemade raviolis, lasagna, baked chicken and pot roast are available every day for eat-in or take-out. Desserts change daily. Ravioli’s is located at 4375 Clayton Road. Call (925) 689-3819 for orders. Watch the Pioneer for more information on this new establishment.

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Despite all the gloom, and doom talk of a lagging economy, the future looks very bright for Ravioli’s Italian Market Place, owned by Claytonians Jim and Carol Rackel and Ernie and Tami Campora. The new eatery opened “softly” for friends, neighbors and family on December 18. With no advertising other than word-ofmouth through St. Bonaventure’s, their church, it was standing room only in the new, cozy eatery on Clayton Road. Business has been booming since the opening. “This is fantastic,” said a delighted Carol as she greeted the dozens of friends gathered to taste

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Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

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Cub Scout Pack 444 collected more than 60 items for Christmas for Everyone. The toy drive brought presents to girls and boys who would have otherwise not received anything under the tree. Pack 444 operates out of St. Bonaventure Church in Concord. Since 1930, the Boy Scouts of America has helped boys of Cub Scout age. Parents, leaders and organizations work together to achieve character development, spiritual growth, good citizenship, sportsmanship and fitness, family ties, respectful relationships, personal achievement, friendly service and fun and adventure. This is the 25th year that Christmas for Everyone has been helping the working poor

The bride’s niece, Abigail Gibbons, walked down the aisle with maid of honor Meghan Hudson. Bridesmaids, Amy Cleland, Heather Bray, Sabrina Inloes, Franckie Bentovoja, and Kristen Bishop, carried bouquets of sunflowers and wore kneelength, indigo blue dresses. Samuel Potter grew up in Brentwood and is the son of Ed and Janie Potter. The best man was the groom’s brother, Ben Potter. His groomsmen were childhood and college friends Bobby Rudd, Mitch Peirce, Naoki MacInnes, Will Symons, and Alex Pappas. Clayton Community Church pastor Shawn Robinson officiated. The couple honeymooned in Cancun and live in San Luis Obispo, California.

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Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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January 14, 2011

Around Town Concord swears in new police chief Former Captain of the San Diego Police Department, Guy Swanger, joined by wife, Lora, is sworn in by City Clerk, Mary Rae Lehman, as Concord’s new chief of police during a cold and crisp, but captivating ceremony outside of the Concord Police Department on Jan. 5. Swanger has over 25 years of experience in law enforcement in San Diego managing a variety of roles in the department, including acting assistant chief. He is also co-author of the book “Managing Innovation in Policing: The Untapped Potential of the Middle Manager,” used by universities and police command colleges throughout the country. Swanger gave special thanks to his parents who were in attendance; his mother for teaching

him “what was right,” and his father for teaching him “what was important.” He also thanked

his wife for being the “spunk in the team” and embracing their move to Concord.

DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

Pamela Wiesendanger/Clayton Pioneer

CONCORD CITY CLERK, MARY RAE LEHMAN, reads the oath of office to new police chief Guy Swanger. Lora Swanger stands with her husband as Concord Mayor Laura Hoffmeister looks on.

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RECIPIENTS OF THE MIKE ROSE BENEVOLENCE PROGRAM stand with their benefactor. From left, Joey Farmer, Helen Geddes, benefactor Mike Rose, Corey Lawson and Rene Weverly, with 5-monthold Camilla.

Santa and his elves came early this year for four families given keys to fully refurbished vehicles at the 10th annual benevolence ceremony at Mike Rose’s new Antioch repair facility on Dec. 15. As usual, the Clayton resident and his crew had a problem because more than 100 people applied for a car. “It just seems to get bigger and bigger every year,” Rose said. “The excitement about this is unbelievable. With all the participation that we have and with all the help with this, it’s really amazing.” Rose is grateful for the community support over the years. “It gives us a way of giving back to the community. Also helping some people get back on their feet,” he says. A vehicle can be invaluable to those in need. “It keeps the momentum once they get going,” Rose noted. Helen Geddes of Walnut Creek received a 2005 Chevy Aveo. “I’m totally overwhelmed

Police boycott Contra Costa Times for unfair reporting

and really excited about this kind of program. This is something I’d like to do with my business,” said Geddes, who is beginning a class with the Women’s Initiative on how to start a business. The other recipients were Rene Weverly, a 2007 Kia Optima LX; Joey Farmer, a 2008 Toyota Prius; and Corey Lawson, a 2008 Chrysler Sebring convertible. Rose’s employees donated

their time to fully restore and inspect the vehicles, which had been written off by insurance companies. Each car also was stocked with gifts and goodies. For more information about the program, call 689-1739, ext. 120 or 127, or visit www.mautobody.com/ Benevolence.html or facebook.com/ MikeRosesAutoBody. By Mike Dunn

Brinlee makes 2010 under the wire Clayton’s Maintenance Supervisor, John Johnston and his wife, Lisa, welcomed a new granddaughter on New Year’s Eve. Brinlee Ann Johnston was born at John Muir with just two hours left on the 2010 clock. Brinlee is the third child for parents Michael and Sophia.

The Contra Costa Times editorial board has long been critical of public employee pensions and what it sees as abuses of an already off-kilter system. Now, Times columnists Daniel Borenstein and Lisa Vorderbrueggen are drawing counter-fire from many police and fire department employee unions, who say the paper is biased against public employees in general. In response to what they see as the Times’ constant criticism, the Concord Police Association, Contra Costa Deputy Sheriff ’s Association, Martinez Police Association, Walnut Creek Police Association and Firefighters IAFF Local 1230 are urging members to vote with their pocketbooks and cancel subscription to that newspaper. “The paper is attempting to sway public opinion against public employees with incessant, biased, slanted reporting on pensions that aim not to educate their readers, but to promote their own specific agenda,” a group called “Boycott the Contra Costa Times” said on its Facebook page. UNIONS ARE ‘SCAPEGOATS’ Jeff Krieger, president of the Concord Police Association, said reports by Times’ columnists of pension fund abuse unfairly characterize the system. “He doesn’t deal in the average police salary,” Krieger said of Borenstein. “(He) takes the exceptional circumstance and makes it out to be the norm. And that is not the case.” Joe Higby, vice president of the CPA, and their self-professed “numbers guy,” says police officers are being unfairly targeted. “There’s a lot of disinformation out there about the whole pension thing,” he said. “We’re kind of being used as scapegoats for financial problems that the city and state are having.” FUNDING PRACTICES QUESTIONED

Others, however, are joining Borenstein et al. in asking why, with a steady stream of budget cuts forcing cities, counties and

See Boycott, page 6

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January 14, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Travis Credit Union offers scholarships to graduating seniors

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor R ANDY W ENGER , Display Advertising P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administrative Assistant

Travis Credit Union announced last week that they will once again award twenty $1,000 scholarships to this year’s college bound seniors. Travis Credit Union encourages all graduating seniors to apply. Each applicant must be a high school senior with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, bound for a two- or four–year college or university and a member of Travis Credit Union in good standing. Students who live in Travis Credit Union’s twelve-county service region and are not yet members may join the credit union and apply for a scholarship at the same time. “In the last seven years, we have received a tremendous response from young members who have exhibited a commit-

S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Jay Hartlove, Lou Fancher, Nicci Shipstead, Pam Wiesendanger, Mike Dunn

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

PIONEER INFO

criminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on our Website are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 250 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter in a Word document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.

To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 6720500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Or, you may fax your typewritten ad and credit card information to (925) 672-6580. All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that dis-

ment to academic excellence and community service. We look forward to recognizing even more of our deserving young members this year,” says Patsy Van Ouwerkerk, Travis Credit Union president and CEO. Scholarship applications are available at any branch location or students may apply online at Travis Credit Union’s website at www.traviscu.org. In addition to a completed application other requirements include a 250-word essay, a certified high school transcript and a letter of recommendation from a teacher. Completed applications must be received no later than the close of business Mon., Mar. 14. The closest branch to Pioneer readers is in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center.

Page 5

Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today (925) 672-8787.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Meals on Wheels Drivers 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@att.net Help fight Hunger Call Anna Chan at 672-1988. Anna’s Attic Volunteers Call 674-9072 or (925) 766-5066. Hospice of the East Bay Call Volunteer Dept. at (925) 8875678 or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org. Clayton Historical Society Museum Call the museum at 672-0240. Clayton Community Library. 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org

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The Creekside Artist Guild and the Clayton Community Library are presenting a new series of art workshops and placing “free” at the top of the word list for 2011. The three-part watercolor series will be held at the library one Saturday each month January to March. The workshops feature expert instruction, practical application and insights from local artisans. Local watercolor artist Alice Martinez will lead a two-hour class on Jan. 22. “I plan to present a hands-on watercolor workshop for entry-level artists,” she said. “They will produce at least two paintings they can take home.” The first painting, of a sunset with a palm tree, will allow students to develop baseline skills. The second piece will be a floral, Martinez’s specialty. “My brother lives in Hawaii and I was inspired by the beauty of the islands. I’ve been focusing on watercolor painting for the last five years and paint mostly close-ups of tropical florals,” Martinez explained, adding that she has been drawing for most of her life. That depth of experience is what library volunteer coordinate Arlene Nielsen says is the

key to the workshops. “If this series is well-attended and the community is interested in more free art programs, photography may be next,” Nielsen said. “Plans are to continue to have one to two local Creekside artists from the chosen medium and at least one representative from an outside art group specializing in that medium.” Leslie Wilson, a plein air landscape painter from the California Watercolor Association, will lead the February watercolor series. CAG member Anne Sackman ties up the series in March with an advanced class in portraitures. The library, which has been donating meeting and exhibition space to CAG since May 2006, is also hosting the workshops. “They’ve sent out fliers and have been very helpful,” Martinez said. “Arlene works very hard to coordinate everything for us.” Non-profits and communitybased clubs like CAG often lose energy when faced with a debilitating search for meeting space. Martinez says the library’s support infuses her with enthusiasm for practicing and sharing her art. According to Martinez, beginning artists often worry that the watercolor medium is hard to control. Therefore, she’s excited to show how the right consistency allows paint to flow

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

ENTRY-LEVEL ARTISTS WILL LEARN BASIC WATERCOLOR techniques at the first of the CAG workshops this winter. Concord artist, Alice Martinez will lead off on Jan. 22.

on the paper and to guide students as they blend colors in smooth gradations. “For me, coming up with ideas is the hardest part. I like to add geometric elements to set (my work) apart,” she said. “But what I’ll teach are the basics. I want the students to go away renewed with enthusiasm to paint.”

“Florals in Watercolor” is at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22. “Plein Air Landscapes in Watercolor” is 10 a.m. Feb. 26. “Portraitures in Watercolor” will be 10 a.m. March 19. Sessions are limited to 20 attendees, age 17+. Register at www.ccclib.org or at the library reference desk. Sign-ups can be made 30 days prior to class date.

officers can retire at age 51 after 30 years of service with 90 percent of their salary guaranteed each year for the rest of their lives. But CalPERS, the agency tasked with managing health and retirement benefits for public employees in California, says that is more the exception than the rule. In response to stories of public employees retiring with extravagant benefits, some in the annual six-figure range (several in Contra Costa County), it issued the following statement: “Our records indicate that over the last seven years, safety workers who retired at age 50 with 30 years of service represented 1 percent of all those retired. The reason very few ever would receive this level pension is that they would have had to start working at age 20 to earn 30 years. Most start their safety careers at age 27, 28 or 29.” According to CalPERS’ records, only 2 percent of retirees in its system collect pensions of $100,000 or more each year. The majority bring in $25,000 or less. “The chiefs of police, when they retire, they make a lot of money,” Krieger said. “But there’s only one of them. There are 140 of us.”

UNION CONCESSIONS Higby said Concord’s police officers are aware of the city’s budget struggles. “We’re not in a vacuum,” he said. “We see what’s going on around us and what’s going on with the city.” In the last session of the association’s budget wrangling with the city, in spring 2010, Higby said police officers agreed to put their 5 percent raises toward the employee contribution to the pension plan, formerly covered by the city. The city had previously been paying the entire 9 percent employee contribution, in addition to its own regular contribution to officers’ pensions. It now pays 4 percent of the employee contribution and the officers contribute 5 percent. In comparison, the average annual salary increase nationwide in the private sector was closer to 1.6 percent. “Everyone has to sacrifice to get us all through these tough times, including public employees,” DeSaulnier said. “They have, and I believe they will continue to make sacrifices for the greater good.” Despite his views on their pensions, Borenstein is appreciative of police and fire safety officers. “They’re critical,” he said. “I wouldn’t want to live in a society without them.”

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school districts alike to slash services across the board, reports still come in of unions reaping generous retirement benefits from those same emptying coffers. The Times reported about a practice called “spiking,” in which some retirees have received raises or excess compensation in their final years prior to retirement in an effort to artificially increase pension benefits. Others have reportedly indulged in “double dipping,” where employees retire after years of service, begin collecting benefits (in some cases in the six-figure range annually), and are then re-hired by the same agency and take salary in addition to those benefits. State Sen. Mark DeSaulnier has long been supportive of public employees. He noted that, however, that abuses of the system aren’t just damaging to city and county governments stuck holding the bag, but also harm to public perceptions of the workers left behind. “The egregious cases that Dan has written about, I don’t think anybody thinks that should have happened,” he

said. “It’s really not good for the public’s trust in public safety employees. And every public safety employee I’ve talked to thinks so. “Those of us who are elected and supported by public employee unions have to still remember that most of the time, what’s good for the general public is the most overriding concern,” DeSaulnier added. CRUNCHING THE NUMBERS Borenstein didn’t deny that the Times political columnists are skeptical of employee pension plans. “The editorial page has consistently been concerned about the growing cost of public employee pensions and its effect on funds available for other services,” he said. Vorderbrueggen was even more direct in her response to accusations of bias. In a column posted online, she stated, “The claim is nonsense, of course. It’s a classic case of shooting the messenger.” A degree in actuarial accounting may be necessary to determine which side is right in the dispute. In theory, Concord police

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The Willows Theatre Company’s triumphant announcement of its return to mainstage performances at Concord’s Willows Shopping Center in March 2011 surprised some and pleased many. “We started looking at our patron base for the past year, and the overwhelming response has been that they missed the larger productions,” explained managing director David Faustina. The decision to return to Concord came just one month after the city of Martinez granted Faustina’s request to forgive a $40,000 loan. “I went to the Nov. 17 City Council meeting for loan forgiveness, not new moneys. The move to Concord was not a viable option at that time. I hadn’t even gone to the board of directors with the options my staff and I were vetting,” Faustina said. “As a non-profit, the last thing we wanted to do was murmur about growth. It would have been irresponsible to make public thoughts I hadn’t even presented to the managing board.” The theater company pulled out of the Concord location a year ago due to financial limitations and staged shows solely at its newer Martinez venue. According to Faustina, organizational changes made the return to Concord feasible. “We went through a series of layoffs over the last three years and significantly decreased our payroll liabilities,” Faustina reported. “Instead of renewing the positions we once had, we decided to dedicate our resources to our productions and thereby reopen the mainstage.” He emphasized that the return is an expansion, not a move away from the smaller Martinez stage.

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“(Martinez) Mayor Rob Schroder and I share a partnership. I really respect their vision for where Martinez is and we have worked hard to bring back revenue to the city. We were never exclusive to Martinez,” he said. “It really isn’t a stretch for us to include the city of Concord in our plans.” Concord Mayor Laura Hoffmeister is thrilled her city will be included in the group’s future. “We welcome the Willows Theatre back to Concord. It was sad when they left and we’re very happy to have them back,” she said. “There is community support for them to grow their theater base in a more central location.” The first show in the new/old Concord theater will be the musical “Once on This Island,” opening March 21. The rest of the mainstage season will feature “King O’ the Moon,” “Chess: the Musical” and “Nunset Boulevard” directed by Danny Goggin. As the large-scale productions shift to Concord, Faustina stressed that the company’s focus on the Campbell Theatre would

not diminish. The Willows will continue to present popular and artistically risky cabaret shows, the work of local artisans and playwrights and plans to put more effort into the summer festival in Martinez. “The Campbell will really be a cabaret, not us forcing a mainstage season on a stage that can’t support it,” he said. The first show at the Campbell in 2011 will be the musical “Rags,” set to open Feb. 4. The company will present “Show Boat,” a large-scale production at the John Muir Amphitheater in August. “In the past, we had two different seasons competing with each other,” Faustina noted. “Now, they will complement each other.” The final answer for the company’s future remains where it has always resided: in the hands of ticket holders and supporters of local, live theater.

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Front Row: Addie, Abby, Emily, Ainsley, Rose, Iris, Melinda, Amber. Back row: Shane Nevau, Lauren, Alyssa, Meaghan, Lily, Bailey, Jenna and Bob Piper. (Scouting regulations require the girls be identified by first names only.)

Scouts. The Daisy Promise is embodied as the center of a Daisy patch and each petal is a Daisy Law with a different color and meaning, such as the light blue petal for honest and fair and yellow for friendly and helpful. Cark meets with her Daisies every other week for an hour and 15 minutes. They discuss a petal and do an activity such as crafts, games, singing or field trips. Parents report their daughters are making friends, adapting new

Closure, from page 1 narrowed down its recommendations to three different combinations of elementary and middle schools. Schools on the list of considerations include Sequoia, Monte Gardens, Silverwood, Wren and Holbrook elementary schools, and Glenbrook and Sequoia middle schools. No high schools were named. Students at Monte Gardens and Sequoia elementary schools have among the highest API scores in the district. Sequoia Middle School’s scores are second only to those of Foothill Middle School. Eight areas were considered in determining which schools to suggest. Those included attendance vs. capacity, test scores and

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Daisies send girls on their way to Scouts With baked treats in hand, Daisy Girl Scouts Troop 31927 visited the Clayton Fire Station 11 to personally thank them for their courageous work. In return, the girls got to climb aboard the fire engine and hold a live fire hose (with some assistance, of course). After last month’s visit with firefighters Shane Nevau and Bob Piper and Capt. Terry Stewart, the girls earned their Fun Fire Truck Patches. “We appreciate our brave firefighters and what they do for our community and put a large value on these types of experiences for our girls,” said troop leader Nadire Cark. “This was a wonderful time and the captain and firefighters were really great with our children,” remarked organizer and Daisy mom Setsuko Ets-Hokin. The Daisy troop for girls in kindergarten and first grade was founded at the beginning of the school year. Daisy Scouts learn the Daisy Promise, then learn what Brownies do as they are ready for the next level on their way to Girl

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the condition of school buildings. The committee’s recommendations will be presented to the Board of Education at a study session at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 19 at Northgate High School, 425 Castle Rock Rd., Walnut Creek, in the Little Theater. The meeting is open to the public. According to board president Gary Eberhart, further public comment will be solicited at the regular board meeting on Jan. 25. The board will make a final decision on Feb. 8. Eberhart said he was confident of the committee’s process for selecting the schools to close. “I see the recommendations that they’ve made. I see the votes that

principles and asking questions about the different petals. “Mommy, how will I be more responsible?” inquires Cark’s daughter, Melinda. Melinda says she is learning about “saving the earth and all Daisies are learning to sell cookies.” Daisy Bailey liked the movie and fire station field trips. Daisy Kennedy “loves being in Daisy Scouts.” When asked where she can demonstrate what she learned about showing respect by

they’ve cast. And I believe the process has been a good one,” he said. He invited anyone with questions about the process to contact him via email at gary@mdusd.net. School closures won’t end the district’s budget problems. New budget numbers are expected to come from Sacramento this month, and Eberhart said it was “very possible” that more school closures would have to be considered. “We are relatively sure that the changes (the governor) is going to propose are not going to improve our budget picture,” Eberhart said. “We know that we have to reduce the budget. Even given the numbers we’re working on now, we have to reduce millions and millions on the budget.”

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January 14, 2011

Yes, Virginia, those movie homes really do exist large pool also featured in the film. It last sold in 1998 for $3,250,000. In 2003, the controversial “Bad Santa” was a favorite for Billy Bob Thornton fans. Thornton plays a grinch of a mall Santa who robs the mall after hours. He befriends a troubled kid and takes up residence in his house while the parents are out of town. The stuccostyle home featured in the film is actually up for sale right now. It is in West Hills, Calif., and is listed for $1,000,000. The 4,100 sq. ft. home offers panoramic city views, a custom infinity pool and barbecue center. In 2003’s “Elf,” Will Ferrell plays Buddy, a human raised by Santa’s elves who travels to New York City to seek his identity. The building where Buddy’s father lives is nicknamed “The Ghostbuster Building” because it served as the location for several scenes in the

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS Where are some of the Q houses we see in classic holiday movies? At rismedia.com, I found A some movies where the homes definitely co-star with the actors. The most recent is the 2006 film “The Holiday,” with Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz swapping homes for the holiday season to get away from their troubles. Diaz settles into a quaint cottage in the English countryside, while Winslow takes over a swanky abode in the small affluent city of San Marino, Calif. The 10,324 sq. ft. mansion has nine bedrooms, five bathrooms and a

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“Ghostbusters” movie. Built in 1929, 55 Central Park West has a unique art deco exterior. It has been the home to several famous residents, including Calvin Klein and Donna Karan. In 1990, “Home Alone” was the booby trapping holiday favorite. Macaulay Culkin’s character, Kevin McCallister, shared most of the screen time with the picturesque house the family called home. The actual house sits on a tree-lined street in Winnetka,

Ill. It was built in 1920 with five bedrooms, 3.5 baths and 4,243 sq. ft. of living space. The 1983 film “A Christmas Story” was set in the 1940s in Hammond, Ind. “You’ll shoot your eye out” was the infamous phrase which pertains to the Red Ryder BB gun idolized by Ralphie Parker. As a tribute to this movie’s immortality, the house used in the movie was completely restored and is now open to visitors. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, “A

Christmas Story House” is open for tours year-round. My personal favorite is 1947’s “Miracle on 34th Street.” The original Christmas classic starred Natalie Wood, Maureen O’Hara and John Payne. A majority of the movie is centered around Macy’s flagship store on 34th Street in New York City, but one of the most memorable scenes is when little Susan’s Christmas wish comes true and she sees the house of her dreams for the first

time. The real home is in Port Washington, N.Y. The 1,703 sq. ft. home still stands, looking practically the same as it did in 1947. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions, contact her at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

Frank Exhibit, from page 1 are just a few of the familiar names seen on street signs and subdivision gates in Clayton and Concord. Her living relatives number well over 200 and span seven generations descended from Frederick John Frank and Elizabeth Bisber who married in 1868. The union produced 12 children. In the late 1890s, after working as hired labor on several local ranches, Frederick and Elizabeth settled in a rented farmhouse on Pine Hollow Road (later renamed Pine Hollow Court) adjacent to the south side of Mt. Diablo Elementary School. In 1897, Fred and Elizabeth’s oldest son Fred, Jr., headed north to join the Alaskan gold rush. “All the family’s dreams were on his shoulders,” Charmetta says. “He was supposed to be the Joe Kennedy of the family.” But, like Joe, Fred, Jr.’s life ended short of his predicted glory. He struck it rich in the Yukon and brought back enough money for the family to buy the ranch, but died of a burst appendix just three days after his triumphant return. In 1924 her grandparents built what Charmetta still calls the “new” house—the stucco bungalow she has shared with her third cousin Janet Easton, 59, for the past 40 years. Asked what she thinks is her family’s legacy, Charmetta quips, “they all married up…” “…our family wouldn’t have anything if they hadn’t married property,” adds Janet. characteristically finishing Charmetta’s sentence. Originally 20 acres, the Frank farm now covers just one acre. The driveway circles a windmill in the front yard. A small cottage where Charmetta lived in her early years stands next to the farmhouse. As a child, her residence was technically with her parents in Concord. But her grandparents’ ranch was a powerful draw. Her heart and her horses were always on the ranch. “When I did have to

go home, I drove my parents crazy. I’d pretend I forgot where my room was, where my house was,” she laughs. “I never wanted to be anywhere but here.” When she was 16, her parents allowed her to move into the cottage. “As long as I didn’t miss the bus, I could stay out here.” In the backyard, there is a ship—a near life size lumber schooner built as a project by the kids in the daycare she operated until 2006. Her daycare kids, now adults, still come by occasionally to visit and climb on the J.G. Wall, named for the first ship piloted by her great-grandfather, Capt. John Stockfleth. “Nothing about Charmetta Mann is ordinary,” observes her friend and Clayton Museum curator Mary Spryer. “Where kids in other daycares play kickball on the playground, at Charmetta’s, they built a ship. In 1977 when Alex Haley’s “Roots” aired, Charmetta began to seriously research her own family history. “I love that man,” says Charmetta. “I figured if a black man from Tennessee could trace his family back to Africa, I oughta be able to trace my own family right here.” Janet, who had begun some family history already, joined the pursuit and together the two women have tracked 340 descendants of Frederick and Elizabeth. “These are just the ones that we know their names,” says Charmetta. “We figure there are at least 150 to 250 more from families that we’ve lost track of.” They do not use any of the genealogy websites, relying instead on albums, letters, public records and oral history passed down from generation to generation. Janet has traced the Russelmann family history back as far as 1090. “I’m jealous,” says Charmetta, wryly. “My side of the family history only goes back to 1464. Columbus was 12.” Point to a leaf on the family tree and Charmetta will immedi-

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

THIS STUCCO FARMHOUSE WAS BUILT by Charmetta Mann’s grandparents in 1924. The Clayton ranch has been home to the 70-year-old historian all her life. She and her cousin Janet Easton have shared the home since 1971 and still refer to it as the “new” house.

ately launch into one of her famous stories. She speaks with familiarity and humor of relatives that have been dead for 50, 100 years or more, recalling foibles, buried scandals, pranksters and love affairs. At the time of his death, Charmetta recounts, Fred, Jr., was engaged to Lillien Russelmann (Russelmann Park Road) “Her fiancé had only been home three days and Lillien was devastated by his death, taking to her bed for months.” Three years later, Lillien married Fred’s younger brother, Henry. But, alas, Henry was never to measure up to his dead brother. “She kept Fred’s picture on her nightstand,” says Janet “And she would frequently jab at Henry, saying ‘you’re no Fred.’” Lillien was Janet’s great-grandmother. Henry was Janet’s great grandfather and Charmetta’s great uncle. Beginning Sunday, January 16, visitors to the Clayton Museum will get an inside and very personal look at Clayton history as traced back through the Frank family when the museum’s latest exhibit “Frankly Speaking” opens. A volunteer docent and member of the board of directors of the Clayton Historical Society, Charmetta and her family have donated so many items to the museum that it seems like a second home. Among the many items included in the exhibit are

Capt. Stockfleth’s furniture, a “harness repair contraption” from the Lars and Lizzie Frank Olsen line of the family and photos, albums, portraits, letters and Henry Frank’s baby buggy (Henry was born on the Frank ranch in 1877). Spryer, has been working with Charmetta to mount the exhibit which will include items from many of Clayton’s pioneering families, almost all related in someway to the Frank family. “We are so lucky to have Charmetta – her history IS Clayton’s history,” says Spryer. “Her family has kept Clayton from becoming a ghost town.” “She’s helps me so much. If I need something to complete an exhibit,” Spryer continues, “She’ll go home and find the item— sometimes in her own kitchen.” Now, if you still can’t place her, close your eyes and picture the black and silver 1957 Chevy Nomad station wagon that is a fixture in front of the Clayton Museum all summer. That’s not part of the exhibit. That’s Charmetta’s car, her only car. Frankly Speaking opens on Sunday, January 16 at the Clayton Museum, 6101 Main Street in downtown Clayton. For more information, visit the Clayton Historical Society website, www.claytonhistory.org, or call (925) 672-0240. The museum is open Wednesdays and Sundays 2-4 p.m. and by appointment.

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World saw some extreme weather in 2010 During the first few weeks of January, meteorologists review weather events from the past year. As it turns out, 2010 was a year of interesting weather extremes in the local area and throughout the world. Data records for the last 25 years from a Concord weather station indicate that the average temperature in 2010 was 60.3 degrees F. Since the 2010 average is close to the 25-year average of 60.5 degrees, it would be easy to conclude that the past year was normal. However, closer review of monthly temperature averages paints a very different picture. In fact, in a five-class distribution, only January 2010 would be considered normal when compared to the 25-year average. April, May and August would be classified as much below normal, while September and December would be much above normal. Although the Bay Area regis-

WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS tered a cooler than normal summer, heat waves affected other parts of the world. Last September, the temperature rose to 113 degrees in Los Angeles – breaking an all-time record high. In Pakistan, 129 degrees was the highest ever recorded on the Asian continent. A particularly long and deadly heat wave hit Russia last summer. More than 50,000 deaths were attributed to the excessive heat, smog and forest fires that ensued.

Rainfall data from Concord Airport show that 2010 was wetter than normal, with almost 21 inches of rain compared to an annual average of 19.6 inches. Nearly half of last year’s rain fell in January and December, with single-day totals of more than an inch on Jan. 19 and Dec. 19. In the United States and around the world, extreme rainfall and snowfall events made headlines. Monsoon season flooding ravaged parts of China and Pakistan, resulting in a death toll of more than 15,000. To offer perspective on the widespread flooding, it was estimated that an area the size of Wisconsin was inundated. A heavy pre-Christmas snowfall in the Midwest resulted in the collapse of the Metrodome Stadium roof in Minneapolis. That same storm struck the New York City area the day after Christmas. The resulting two to three feet of snow paralyzed

ground and air traffic for several days. Weather events in the first months of 2010 were influenced by a strong El Nino. During the middle of the year, El Nino faded – giving way to a strong La Nina episode later in the year. Both weather patterns have been known to produce extreme weather events, and 2010 saw the effects of both. Many climate scientists state that recent weather extremes are also signs of climate change induced by global warming. The past year produced some unusual temperature and rainfall patterns in the Clayton area. But after researching the weather recorded in other parts of the world in 2010, I don’t think events like the abnormally cool summer or wet winter seem as extreme.

Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

January 14, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page 9

Community at the heart of CBCA goals TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

If you’re looking for a way to get involved in our community, Clayton has dozens of outlets for your creative energy and countless opportunities to meet people and share interests. Beginning with this issue, Pioneer readers can learn about the local possibilities for selfexpression, community service and just plain fun. Our first spotlight shines on the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA). The CBCA is a major player on the local scene. The community service organization’s motto is “For the Good of the Clayton Community.” The group raises money every year through three main events – the Art and Wine Festival in the spring, the Clayton Classic Golf Tournament in June and the Oktoberfest in the fall – and plows it back into the community through college scholarships, civic projects and donations to causes such as providing meals and clothing to those in need, sports uniforms and equipment to teams that are underfunded or not funded by the school district and care packages to our troops. In 2009, the CBCA contributed more than $60,000 toward the redesign of the city’s “Daffodil Hill” gateway entrance into downtown. Committee members are hard at work on the

designs for the landscaping. Almost anything in Clayton that takes money has seen CBCA donations. In addition, the group decorates downtown Clayton and The Grove for Christmas, sponsors and coordinates the annual Christmas tree lighting and “Dessert with Mrs. Claus.” CBCA also donated the gazebo in The Grove and is a co-sponsor of the popular summer Concerts in The Grove. The CBCA held its inaugural Rib Cook-Off and Membership Drive at the Clayton Club in August. This event came together quickly and publicity was light, but the smell of baby back ribs on the barbecues of the 16 contestants attracted a few hundred attendees. As a result, this event will probably be expanded and become an annual affair. The group is also involved in “Do the Right Thing,” a character emphasis program promoted in Clayton schools and by the city of Clayton through posters and banners. This civic organization has its roots in the business community. Originally founded as the Clayton Business and Professional Association, the club was created to give local businesses a stronger voice in city government. In 1995, the organization renamed itself the Clayton Business and Community Association and “expanded its focus into more of a service organization,” accord-

Photo credit: Pete Barra

CRAIG JOHNSON AND WIFE SANDY, work the ticket booth for a few hours at the 2010 Art and Wine Festival, just one of several CBCA events run by volunteers each year.

ing to Howard Geller, a longtime CBCA member, current City Council member and an organizer of the summer concert series. “The biggest misperceptions that people have when attending CBCA events are that one needs to own a business in order to join, or that CBCA is a part of city government,” says 2011 CBCA president Ed Hartley. In fact, anyone who lives in the 94517 zip code or on the Clayton-Concord border can be a member, as can anyone who owns a business in town or one that services Clayton residents. Dues are $48 per year, plus a one-time $60 initiation fee. General member dinner meetings are held on the last business Thursday of the month, most

often at Oakhurst Country Club. In addition to club news, the monthly meetings include updates about current activities from City Council and Planning Commission members and representatives from local clubs and organizations. “Our monthly member meeting is a great way to meet and talk to your neighbors, local business owners, members of city government, the police chief, a planning commissioner and to find out what is going on in town,” said Keith Haydon, CBCA first vice president in charge of programs. “All five City Council members, the city manager, the assistant to the city manager, several members of the police department, the

Planning Commission and other city employees are CBCA members and regularly attend our meeting.” According to Haydon, all of the labor and effort to put on club events is done through volunteers. “We do not hire out labor for anything. This means that in addition to the 180 current CBCA members, we rely on hundreds of others to volunteer their time at our events. Most of those volunteers, in turn, are part of the same groups who receive CBCA donations.” “As a community service group, we are only as good as the effort that our members and volunteers put in to raising money so we can donate it back out to worthy causes,” Hartley noted. “This is a town where individuals can really make a difference,” Geller concluded. “And the CBCA is the way to do it.” For more information on the CBCA, call 672-2272 or visit www.claytoncbca.org.

Your credit card may be Club News transmitting personal info right into thieves’ laptops

FROM

THE

CHIEF

These days, thieves can steal private financial information from our credit cards through radio frequency identification (RFID) chips. Credit card issuers and the U.S. State Department have started installing RFID chips in credit cards and passports. These small electronic devices have the capacity to hold more private data about us and are faster to read than the magnetic strips on most credit cards. Retrieving the data from credit cards or passports with a RFID chip is accomplished through the use of an RFID reader. The reading device is simply held close enough to the credit card or passport. The primary reason companies are using this technology is speed. The chips facilitate faster purchase transactions or quicker check-in times at the airport, for example. Unfortunately, identity thieves are also able to utilize this new technology to quickly steal personal information from unsuspecting people. They use RFID readers that are readily available online. Anyone with a RFID reader can simply walk near people who have RFIDequipped credit cards in their possession and scan the credit cards or passports. The RFID chip transmits personal data to the RFID reader, which is then

If you have further questions about this new theft issue, call the Clayton Police Department at 6737350, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Dan Lawrence is Clayton’s Police Chief. Please send your questions, comments or topics you’d like to see covered to DanL@cpd.ci. concord.ca.us

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS Concord Council 6038 is hosting a crab feed at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5, in St. Bonaventure’s large hall. The menu includes, crab, pasta, salad, garlic bread and dessert. Steak and vegetable are available by special order. Hosted bar features beer, wine and soft drinks. Don’t forget your crab crackers. The church is at 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Tickets are $38 and on sale at the church office or after weekend Mass. Or call Bob Malucelli at 6740920, George Conlow at 6859547, Pat Deplazes at 685-0573 or Claire Tryon at 673-8564.

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Church News CONCORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH A Contra Costa Fire Department official will offer safety instruction to the Women’s Group at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 19. Non-members welcome. Free lunch served by Esther Circle. The church is at 1645 West St., Concord. For more information, call Helen Johnston at 682-1775. BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON All are invited to a talk and evening of fellowship on Friday, Feb. 4. The subject of the talk is “One Humanity – One Common Faith,” with speaker Dennis Pettyjohn. He holds a bachelor’s degree in theology and a master’s in church administration. He was a Baptist minister for about 10 years in California and Arizona. Pettyjohn’s commentary provides insights into the progressive unfolding of past religions and their prophecies, such as the return of Christ and the advent of the Lord of Hosts who have led the world to this promised “Day of God.” The program starts at 7:30 p.m. with a period of interfaith

devotions at the Toloui home in Clayton. For more information and directions, call 672-6686.

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stored for later use by a thief. Even if credit cards are kept in wallets or purses, the chip can still transmit when prompted by a RFID reader. Equipped with a high-powered RFID reader coupled with a laptop computer in a briefcase, a thief walks close enough to people in a crowded place, such as an airport or shopping mall. When the thief ’s RFID reader has collected personal financial data from an unsuspecting person, the person has become a victim of electronic pick-pocketing. As of this date, no one has been caught trying to steal someone’s credit card information electronically. But an electronic pick-pocket could be long gone before anyone realizes personal financial date has been stolen. Because this new technology is definitely a threat, you need to find out if your credit cards have RFID chips. Credit cards with RFID chips usually have a Wi-Fi symbol. If you are not sure, the credit card company should be able to advise you. If your credit cards are equipped with RFID chips, I recommend you carry them in a protective sleeve or shield available online. These protective devices are designed to block an RFID reader’s ability to scan a RFID-equipped credit card or passport.

AAUW AND SAVE MT. DIABLO On Jan. 24 at 7:30 p.m., Save Mount Diablo will provide a presentation for the AAUW Clayton Branch and the public at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center Street in Clayton. Speakers Julie Seelen and Emily Egan will talk about current issues, recent acquisitions and future plans and events as part of their ongoing efforts to keep the community informed about the organization and our shared “backyard”. AAUW is a national organization which advances equity of women and girls through advocacy, education and research.

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Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Feral pigs seem happy to call Clayton home

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Everyone from tony country club golfers to denim-clad ranchers has seen the effect of the packs, or sounders, of wild pigs that roam the hills of Clayton. Damage to the golf course at Oakhurst Country Club was severe enough last year that management brought in a professional hunter to kill up to 25 feral pigs. Sarah Rodenburg, who owns Rodie’s Feed and Country Store with husband Bob, recalled the beautiful landscaping they once

According to wildlife biologist Jim Hale, the omnivorous beasts average 250-400 pounds and can measure up to eight feet long from the snout to the end of the wiggly tail. Hale described the tusks as “razor sharp.” But as long as there’s an escape route available, the pigs would rather flee than fight livestock or humans, Hale reports. Although some locals have noted a decrease in wild hog sightings in the last year, Hale said the population has boomed over the

See Wild Pigs, page 11

Photo Credit Jim Hale

Along with great pleasure, rural living brings wild pigs. Although typically not a threat to humans or pets, they can wreak havoc on landscaping

Math Team adds up to a winning year

Patty Flannery

PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer

Your local neighborhood REALTOR since 1986

Something fun is happening on Thursdays after class at Diablo Valley Middle School (DVMS) and it is not what one would expect. No trips to the market for a slushy drink and hanging out with friends in The Grove. No mad texting to friends that just parted ten minutes ago. No, the DVMS Math Team is gathering to problem solve mathematics and prepare for the upcoming MATHCOUNTS competition beginning this month. These young mathematicians will compete at four levels beginning with local school competitions and progressing to the nationals in May. Each competition takes three hours and consists of very difficult individual and team problems. DVMS parent Jay Suresh is the driving force behind the MATHCOUNTS competition at DVMS. Her daughter Monishaa loves math and needed more of it. Suresh heard about MATHCOUNTS on ESPN and followed up with DVMS math teacher and Math Team coach,

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had on their property. “We had tomato plants, a rose garden. The hillside was probably 40 feet of ice plants,” she said. But then a sounder of wild pigs arrived. “In one night, they had literally routed up our entire rose garden, a 40-foot hill, and they ate all our tomato plants. It was so destructive. I can’t tell you how many thousands of dollars of damage was done.” Julian Ascher of Isabella Farms on Morgan Territory Road is also familiar with the problem. “I felt threatened for my animals,” he said.

DVMS MATH TEAM MEMBERS: Back row- Jovelle Torres, Mariana Jones, Kacie Hennessy, Maya Dromlewicz, Zabi Zafari, Trenton Suddaby, Dave Peters; Front row - Nathan Su, Sean Calimlim, Monishaa Suresh, Zack Fine, Daniel Jones.

Dave Peters. Monishaa likes the competitions because they “are challenging and each one is a different experience.” The Math Team participated in the American Mathematics Competitions in November. Over 150,000 students in the nation are involved. Zach Fine, Sam Givens, Kacie Hennessy, Matt Osterkamp, Nathan Su and Monishaa Suresh from DVMS were among the top scorers. Monishaa scored in the top five percent of the country, missing the top one percent by only one mark. Zach also missed top honors by only one mark. This is the second year DVMS has had a Math Team. “It

is not for extra credit. If they are coming, they are interested,” says Suresh. Students and parent aides meet on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Peter’s classroom where they work individually and together on math problems. The students are learning “all the facets of math,” says Peters, preparing them for problem solving equations they will use in competitions and throughout life. “I am learning to think outside of the box,” Zach notes. “MATHCOUNTS makes math fun,” echo Daniel Jones and Trenton Suddaby. The math students are inter-

ested in continuing their math focus in high school. “I’m ready to volunteer my time,” says Suresh who is in the process of meeting with Clayton Valley High School to discuss starting a Math Team. For more information on the DVMS Math Team, contact Jay Suresh: ramasams@hotmail.com. For more information on MATHCOUNTS, go to mathcounts.org.

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entirely to filling them. I like to take my time with conclusions, coming to grips with the past and readying myself for the future. So while most people use January as a time to make a fresh start, I use it as a transition period. For 31 days, I celebrate the past year by reviewing its happenings, both good and bad, make goals for how I want to improve my life and myself in the new one and struggle to remember to write the appropriate year when heading school papers with the date. By Jan. 31, my birthday, I’m finally ready to say goodbye to the past and embrace both the new year and a new age. I catch up with the rest of the world a month late and a year older. This last week, I kicked off my period of in between with a list of my goals for 2011. As part of my aim to develop healthier

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habits, just one of my many ambitions for this year, I made my way to the doctor’s office for a checkup. After my appointment, I found myself sitting in the injection clinic, surrounded by small children, awaiting my prescribed flu shot. As I sat fidgeting in the miniature chair, the little boy next to me voiced his dread to his mother. “Mama, I don’t want to get the shot!” said the boy, trying to restrain a pucker. His mother comforted him with a hug and said, “Remember last year, honey? You said it didn’t hurt badly at all! Remember? There’s no reason to be scared.” Watching the pair reminded me of myself at that age in a similar situation. When my eyes had begun to well up, my mother reminded me of the goal I had set for myself that year that I had shared with her: to not be scared anymore. With this resolution in mind, I held back my tears and went on to overcome my fear of shots that very day. This reminded me that while sometimes it’s hard to move on, making the transition is necessary to grow. Though it’s sad at times to see a year come to a close, its end is needed to push us forward toward change. I left the doctor’s office that day excited for the changes that lie ahead of me on the 31st, starting 2011 and my 17th year. Taylor Tovrea is a junior at Clayton Valley High School. She is a regular contributor to the Pioneer. You can Email her at taylor@ claytonpioneer.com

ROBBIE PARKER DVMS REPORTER The holiday season has come to a close and things are settling down and returning to normal. School is back in session, and students are reminiscing about the great days of winter break. As the new year starts, many practice the tradition of making a New Year’s resolution. Most think of ways they can become a better person, or start good habits and break the bad ones. However, it’s not always easy to change and following through with a resolution can be difficult. Ads about quitting smoking and losing weight bombard the airwaves, especially at the start of the new year. When making a resolution, most of us concentrate on self-improvement and consider physical or healthy changes. However, I suggest making it your goal to help others. Students at Diablo View Middle School have started recognizing the importance of having integrity. A few weeks before winter break, the school began passing out wristbands reading Do the Right Thing to students who showed exemplary character. Students were also encouraged to give their wristbands away. I hope the bands will continue be passed to others in the community. The school’s goal is to spread that significant message to anyone doing the right thing. While these wristbands are a good way to identify those who exhibit integrity and are fun to give away, they are merely a visual reminder of the message. DVMS promotes continuing to do the right thing and helping others from the kindness of your

See Right Thing, page 18

January 14, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page 11

Library goes to the dogs for safety seminar PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer

Because dogs go to work, school, parties and shopping with their owners, people need to understand dog behaviors and safety. “Dogs do not view children the same as adults,” Barbara Dwyer offers as an example of canine behavior that many people don’t understand. Dog owners and non-dog owners alike can learn more about canine safety at a seminar Jan. 30 at the Clayton Library. Dwyer, a professional dog trainer, will present several topics for adults and children, such as observing and

interpreting canine body language, safety guidelines for dog park usage, the difference between a fight and rough play and what to do if a fight occurs. Dwyer has trained dogs for 18 years. Her experience began when she was training her own dogs and entering them in obedience competitions. Through her work with the Dalmatian Club of Northern California, she became “very very interested” in how to address behavioral problems. She is currently a dog trainer for the Vallejo Dog Training Club, owner of See Spot Stay and a senior at the Ethology Institute completing a degree in animal behav-

ior therapy. The Clayton K-9 Coalition is sponsoring the seminar. While donating a free hour of training at the Clayton Dog Park’s 10th anniversary celebration, Dwyer expressed concern to the coalition president about the dangers of a dog park. “You need to know what you’re doing,” says Dwyer, who volunteered to conduct a safety seminar. The coalition needs about $3,000 per year to maintain the dog park, with the money raised primarily by eScrip, donations and fundraisers like the pet memorial arbor plaques. The eScrip process requires that organizations do

Raccoon and David are ARF’s Stars Ten-month-old Raccoon is an athletic and intelligent fellow. He will require physical as well as mental exercise to keep healthy. Going to training class is a great way for young Raccoon to bond with his new family members while meeting new people, socializing with other dogs and brushing up on

his manners. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60% off one 7-week dog training session. Six-month-old David is a friendly boy who enjoys getting tons of pets. He is one big time love bug and would love to be your little shadow. The adoption fee for adult cats is regularly $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 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog

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something to educate children, so the K-9 Coalition capitalized on Dwyer’s offer for a seminar. In 2000, the city of Clayton approved the dog park site off Marsh Creek Road. The city installed fencing, benches, a table and trash cans. Local residents formed a coalition to raise funds for water and maintenance. In 2005, Eagle Scouts built an arbor for shade over the table. In 2010, another Eagle Scout project provided a small dog play area with an arbor and most recently improved the water system by bringing water from the north end of the park to the small dog area and south end. Additional Eagle Scout projects are in the works. “It’s best to have the dogs spread out,” says K-9 Coalition president Lori Rehn, noting that the Eagle Scout projects have made that possible and consequently improve safety at the dog park. Margaret Narushchen comes from Concord to the Clayton park for the beautiful setting, friendly dog owners and, most importantly, because her German shepherd, Anya, loves to play with the other dogs and the structure in the agility area (funded by the Clayton Business and Community Association). Local resident John Manzeck uses the park nearly every day. “It’s a great park,” he says. “The people who use it are cognizant of what their dogs are doing. They police their dogs.” The Dog Safety Seminar is 1-3 p.m. Jan. 30 at the Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. Entry is free, but donations are welcome. For more information on the dog park, visit www.claytondogpark.com.

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Wild Pigs, from page 10 past 10 years. He estimates there are close to 2 million in California. He blames for-profit hunters for the rise in numbers. “They have been responsible for a lot of increase in population and also for populations appearing where they weren’t before,” he said. Hoping to make more than $500 from clients who want to

shoot a pig, the business owners release domestic pigs into the wild to join and mate with existing sounders. Those groups then breed multiple times a year and spread throughout the area. The California Department of Fish and Game requires a permit to hunt pigs for food and sport. But property owners who come across pigs in the act of damaging

Mayor, from page 1 community volunteers, including groups from Diablo Valley Ranch and Scout Troops 444 and 484. Thanks to all who help put on this wonderful family event. This last month, I had an opportunity to meet separately with our police officers association and our miscellaneous employees to discuss areas of individual and mutual concern. The miscellaneous employees include maintenance workers, city hall employees who are not officers and, technically, the chief of police. First off, we know we need to get a better name for these employees than “miscellaneous” as it does not convey their importance or positions within our community. Names like “the cool

group,” “who needs a gun anyway group,” “The Beatles” and “why is the chief in our group group,” just didn’t take, so if you have any great ideas let us know. In any event, we on the City Council think all of our city employees do an excellent job with fewer resources than their counterparts in other cities. Despite this appreciation, the council unfortunately is tasked with negotiating labor contracts with each of these groups and, as you know, when money gets involved it sometimes hurts even the best relationships. So our meetings addressed areas of concern regarding compensation, support and retirement issues from their side and our side. I think both sides got a better

seemed to discourage the local pig population without having to invest in guns and ammunition. “We really haven’t had pig problems since then. If there are not grubs, there are no pigs,” she said. Ascher noted that neighbors have shot wild pigs and found that the population soon moved elsewhere. “It seems like every generation, we have to remind them why not to come back there, and then they stay away for a while,” said Ascher.

understanding of each other and I hope it will help us go forward with even better cooperation and understanding. Thanks again to all our city employees for a great year It is slow at City Hall this time of year, so there’s not a whole lot to tell you. At the risk of putting you to sleep, I will tell you that in addition to our primary roles as your elected officials, the council members also serve on various subcommittees that effect local and regional issues and intergovernmental organizations. We put together and participate in subcommittees for issues that require council involvement and input outside of our regularly scheduled meetings. Currently, we have about 20 subcommittees and we are thinking of putting together a subcommittee to look into our subcommittees (kidding, of course). These subcommittees are

important to running our city, library and interactions at county and state level. So we will be assigning two council members to each subcommittee at the Jan. 18 meeting. If you want to be riveted, come watch this excitement. I hope that by the time you read this, the Stanford Cardinal will have completed a fantastic run, defeated Virginia Tech in the Orange Bowl and finished the year ranked No. 2 or 3 in the country. If not, at least we have the axe and gloating rights over Cal for this year, so we’ll take what we can get. And finally, a short story: After eating an entire bull, a mountain lion felt so good he started roaring. He kept it up until a hunter came along and shot him. The moral: When you’re full of bull, keep your mouth shut. I believe I will stop now. Email me at shuey@rankinlaw.com.

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or destroying property, or threatening to do so, are allowed to kill them without permits. The killing must be reported to the DFG by the next working day. Experts agree that wild pigs are relatively smart and learn quickly where they can dig for their favorite foods of grubs and acorns, as opposed to where they’re more likely to meet a rancher with a gun. Rodenburg found that eliminating grubs with chemicals available at garden supply stores

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 14, 2011

Clayton Sports Brutal pre-season schedule prepped CV girls soccer JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Scott Booth took over the reins of the Clayton Valley High School girls soccer team a year ago from veteran coach Pat Middendorf, who concluded her career leading the Eagles to the 2009 North Coast Section semifinals. Booth’s team seemed to barely miss a beat as they had an undefeated league season and earned a first-round home game in the NCS playoffs. Despite a Herculean effort by goalie Morgan Nichols, now at the University of Vermont, the Eagles were defeated in the NCS quarterfinals 1-0 by California of the East Bay Athletic League. Booth wanted to give this year’s team a taste of NCS-caliber play right off the bat, so he scheduled four teams from the incredibly tough EBAL. All four of the pre-season contests turned into one-goal matches, with the Eagles beating Foothill and Amador Valley and losing 2-1 in a rematch with California and 1-0 to longtime rivals Carondelet. Then in the ninth annual Tri-

Valley Classic tournament last month, the Eagles faced tough opponents from Southern California and Las Vegas and even matched up with a fifth EBAL squad, Granada, which the Eagles tied 1-1. “We played in the Tri Valley Tournament and, as it turns out, they were all tough teams that we matched up well with,” Booth said. “This is a grueling tournament because you play two full matches a day for two days. We had some girls step up during the two days, which was really nice to see.” DVAL MVP Kelsey Booth leads the Eagles offense from both attacking midfield and forward positions. She is joined by fellow senior defender/midfielder Victoria Kobold in their fourth year as CV starters. Kobold and Lindsey Parscal were both second-team All-DVAL, while three other seniors – Breana Partida, Melissa Del Bene and Renee Roccanova – earned honorable mention all-league last year. Helping the varsity chances is the return of senior central defender Shayana Gois, who sat out last year due to an injury. Sophomore

Samantha Boeger is back for her second varsity season as a versatile midfielder. Booth lists five players he’s counting on in their first varsity experience to contribute to the Eagles. Freshmen Megan Coppa and Kiana Mason, sophomore goalkeeper Megan Elms and juniors Marissa Merrigan and Adriana Storniolo have to help fill the holes left by departing players Nichols, central defender Cherie Lapating and forward Susan Antaki. “Our expectations this year are to come together as a team, push themselves to achieve a higher level of play, stay healthy, focus on making NCS and competing with top teams like San Ramon Valley and Carondelet,” says the coach, who has been on the soccer staff at his alma mater for six years. “Our roadmap to NCS has started with a very aggressive non-league schedule So far the girls are on track and we are pleased with their performance,” he adds.

See Soccer, page 14

Photo by Mike Dunn

SOPHOMORE MIDFIELDER SAMANTHA BOEGER (19) is in her second year with the Clayton Valley High girls soccer team as the Eagles seek to repeat as DVAL champions and return to the NCS playoffs. Returning DVAL MVP Kelsey Booth (3) scored a pair of goals as CV defeated College Park 3-0 last week under the lights in Gonsalves Stadium.

Returning champs, Eagles wear the soccer bullseye JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

The Clayton Valley boys soccer team came into this season in a lofty, new position. The Eagles were league champions last year, which isn’t too bad considering that just two and three seasons before the boys posted two wins each. Four wins in two years and then Diablo Valley Athletic

League champs two years later. Rory Gentry was credited with a major hand in the turnaround and was duly selected East Bay boys soccer coach of the year by the Contra Costa Times. Now in his third year with the Eagles, Gentry gives all the credit to his players’ change of attitude, work ethic and desire to always find one more degree. “A lot of people think because

we graduated such a talented group of seniors last year that we would be going through a rebuilding process, but we are actually reloading and looking forward to a strong season in both league and overall,” Gentry says. Still, he remembers fondly such standouts from last year as all-league performers and team captains goalkeeper Dale Nelson, who established a new

Photo courtesy of Clayton Valley High School Soccer

JUNIOR FORWARD KEVIN SANCHEZ (20) is joined by classmates Josh Gomez and Christian Pedraza as returning All-DVAL players for the defending league champion Clayton Valley Eagles boys soccer team as they seek a repeat league title and return trip to NCS playoffs.

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school record for shutouts, midfielder Fernando Vesga, forward and leading scorer Zarel “Happy” Avila and midfielder/defender (and 2009 DVAL defensive MVP) Nick Sharapata. ON THE ATTACK But as Gentry knows, the cupboard isn’t bare. He has DVAL offensive MVP and third team All-East Bay midfielder junior Josh Gomez leading the offensive attack with potent forwards and all-leaguers sophomore Elisama Padilla and junior Kevin Sanchez. Gomez had 25 assists in 2010, most in the East Bay and a new school record, and he hopes to direct the CVHS attack to approach or better the school record 86 goals of last year. “We truly believe that we have a high octane offensive attack. When all players are in sync, we can light up the scoreboard,” Gentry says, citing the Eagles’ six unanswered goals against Liberty High in a pre-season game. Adding to the offense are senior Jorge Basulto, new team members Josh Luczynski, Victor Hernandez, Edgar Chavez, Sam Marchant, Adolfo Martinez, Austin Gamm and Alex

Shimberg, the latter two sophomores. Last year’s Eagles were stingy giving up goals, notching 15 shutouts in 26 matches. The defensive back line returns three of four starters after graduating all-league performer Alejandro Chavez. Junior captain Christian Pedraza, also an All-DVAL selection in the central back line, is joined by sophomore Yojay Basulto and returning juniors Moises Torres and Alex Dudoroff. Goalkeepers are senior captain Christian Duenas and junior Ryan Phillips. In addition to the starters, Eagle defenders include junior newcomer Zach Jacobson and freshman Reymond Velente, who can also play in the midfield. LOCAL RIVALRY Gentry hopes to repeat as DVAL champions but knows it won’t be easy. “With a strong returning team at Ygnacio Valley, College Park and Concord, we don’t take anything for granted,” he says. “In fact, we tell the boys all the time that every team we play is coming after us and that every team must be respected.” In their first league game at home vs. Berean Christian, the Eagles had to work hard to come out with a 2-0 win – after win-

ning the two 2010 league matches with Berean by a combined 20-0 score. Concord and Clayton Valley high schools have a rivalry in every sport. Since Gentry and his assistant Franco Brunamonti were with the Minutemen from 2002-’08, leading Concord to six NCS playoff appearances, the soccer rivalry is even more heated. “My two older sons, Christopher and Daniel, graduated from CV and I had actually attended there for three months, so I had a strong connection to Clayton Valley,” the coach notes. When the offer to coach the Eagles came, Gentry and Brunamonti jumped at it. “My son Dan was a member of the last Eagles team (2004) to make it to NCS playoffs, so it was really important to me to help restore the boys program to a respected one. I think we are well on our way to doing just that,” Gentry says. The lone early season loss for the Eagles, who are ranked in the top 10 of the East Bay, was to Monte Vista. They’ve defeated NCS playoff teams Freedom, Antioch and Liberty while drawing with James Logan, Pittsburg and Deer Valley, also all NCS teams.

January 14, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Clayton Sports

Name: Sydney Kupsh Age: 8 Sport: Track Team: St. Bonaventure CYO Track and Oak Hill Athletics CYO track and field season is in the spring but one of the youngest members of the St. Bonaventure team has already made a big mark for herself. Sydney Kupsh, a third grader at Highlands Elementary School and the 2010 St. Bonaventure track Rookie of the Year, got a pre-Christmas trip to Florida where she com-

Sports Shorts ly hooked. She has the greatest personality around, yet she’s focused, determined and already knows what she wants to do with her career!” She trains with Oak Hill Athletics when St. Bonaventure track isn’t in session. In addition to her running, Sydney plays the piano and soccer. Her parents, Jerry and Kristin, say she’s looking forward to the start of the CYO track season in March as part of St. Bonnie’s distance team.

of the Athlete Week

peted in the Amateur Athletic Union National Junior Olympics Cross Country Championships at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando on Dec. 4. She ran the 2000-meter race (1.25 miles) in 8:21 (a 6:43 mile pace) to come in ninth overall in the 7-8 girls race. In order to take part in the

Florida meet Sydney had to qualify last Oct. at a Jr. Olympics event in Visalia. St. Bonaventure head coach Darren Newell says Sydney is committed to running. “She won the Diocese as a second grader (competing in the first through third grade division). It was her first year running track and she is now complete-

Sport Chalet congratulates Sydney Kupsh and rewards her achievement with a Sport Chalet gift card. Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.

CVHS Eagle wrestlers looking to make their mark on the mat JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Coach Kyle Behmlander entered his Clayton Valley High School wrestling team in a pair of late December invitational tournaments and a quartet of wrestlers placed in the top three, establishing a good basis for their march toward the Diablo Valley Athletic League and North Coast Section meets in

February. Senior Ben O’Connor won the 189-pound weight class at the 19th annual Bulldog Classic in Turlock as the Eagles finished eighth out of 21 teams while entering just eight wrestlers (out of 14 weight classes). Three CVHS grapplers finished third in Turlock: senior Aaron Swift, 171 pounds; junior Troy Lakin, 103; and sophomore Matt McCoy, 119.

Photo by Mike Dunn

CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL’S wrestling team is in the midst of its season with a number of coach Kyle Behmlander’s grapplers seeking berths in the post-season tournaments. Aaron Swift, left, at 171 pounds is working out with 215-pounder Logan Bangert. Swift recently took third at the Bulldog Classic in Turlock.

Spartans, from page 1 hurt his shoulder. Both were healthy enough to play in the title game. The two Clayton juniors on the DLS varsity, strong safety Trevor Christiansen and tight end/defensive end T. J. Brassil “really progressed as time wore on,” Eidson said. “Like many newcomers to varsity, Trevor and T.J. were somewhat over-

whelmed at first but they were among the most improved players during the season and can earn more playing time as seniors.” Brassil and Christiansen won’t have long to wait to begin getting ready for the challenge. The players noted that they begin weight training this month in preparation for the fall sea-

S P R I N G into t s spor

The previous week, six Clayton Valley wrestlers were enough to gain the Eagles a 13th place finish from a field of 30 teams at the 27th annual Lou Bronzan Invitational in Brentwood hosted by Liberty High. All six Eagles made it to the second day of the Bronzan meet. Lakin and Swift each won seven of eight matches to place third. Other CV wrestlers fell one match short of placing in the top eight. Behmlander is an alumnus of Clayton Valley now in his sixth year as head coach and 10 years overall on the staff. Assisting him are fellow alums Ron McCoy, Dan Relei, Jeff Kaplan, Billy Gore and Louie Verdugo, plus Josh Morris. Besides the aforementioned quartet, the coach is counting on sophomore Logan Bangert at 215; juniors Kenta Caproni at 112, Bryan Jimenez at 135 and Radcliff Humphreys at 140; and senior Bobby Rodriguez, 145, to help the Eagles achieve their season goals. New varsity wrestlers who

might make a name for themselves this season are freshmen Danny Condon at 112 and Ruben Vega at 125, sophomore Dakhota Cramer at 152/160 and junior James Lee, 152. The team is without three key players who helped the Eagles qualify for the NCS Dual Team Meet last year. The coach sees his team battling for a top three finish in DVAL. “At NCS, we hope to push for 5-7 medals (the first eight places get medals). That will not be easy. I have as many as four wrestlers who can reach for state, which goes to the top four from NCS,” Behmlander says. “If everything goes right, I think we can push for top 20 at NCS. But injuries and luck always seem to play a part in NCS.” The NCS meet is at Newark Memorial High Feb. 25-26, after the NCS Dual Team and DVAL meets earlier in February. High school wrestlers ultimately aim to qualify for the state meet March 4-5 in Bakersfield.

son. Brassil, who is also a member of the DLS track and field team in the weight events, says being on the team “was a great experience. The ‘De La Salle brotherhood’ term is real. Watching the seniors go out like that was special and now it’s our [the juniors] turn to match what the seniors did this year.” He added that winning the state championship was “surreal. All the hard work we put in since last January paid off.”

De La Salle’s impressive state championship victory propelled them to No. 1 in national high school rankings by MaxPreps and Massey National Rankings. The team went to the state finals by virtue of its 19th consecutive North Coast Section championship. The last NorCal team to defeat the Spartans was Pittsburg in 1991, coached by current Clayton Valley High coach Herc Pardi. The Eagles tied DLS in 2004.

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YOUTH TEE BALL, VOLLEYBALL, BASKETBALL AT CLAYTON GYM A winter youth basketball academy for boys and girls of all skill levels in first through ninth grades is being held two hours a week through March at Clayton Community Gym. Signups are now being taken for youth tee ball and volleyball leagues, which will run on Saturdays Mar. 5-April 23. Tee ball is for boys and girls 3-6 years of age, while volleyball is for ages 8-14. Adult leagues for basketball and volleyball are also gearing up. For more information or to register for any program offered by All Out Sports at the gym, visit alloutsportsleague-clayton.com. DIABLO FC U8-U11 COMPETITIVE TRYOUTS JAN. 23-30 Diablo FC tryouts for the 2011 season for under 8 through under 11 competitive teams will be Jan. 23, 27 and 30. Boys and girls born between Aug. 1, 2000 and July 31, 2005 are invited to try out. The Sunday tryouts are at Ygnacio Valley High School and Thursday tryout at Willow Pass Park in Concord. Tryouts for boys and girls in the U12-U14 age groups will be Feb. 20, 24 and 27. There is no charge to try out; pre-register today at diablofc.org. DIABLO FC ANNUAL CRAB FEED & AUCTION, FEB. 11 The eighth annual Crab Feed and Auction to support the Diablo FC youth soccer program is slated for Friday, Feb. 11, at Centre Concord. Besides the crab feed dinner and fund-raising live and silent auctions, there will be dancing. Tickets are $50 if purchased before Feb. 1. To get more info or to buy tickets visit diablofc.org CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE TRYOUTS START JAN. 22-23 Clayton Valley Little League provides baseball programs for kids 5-15, softball for girls ages 6-15 and a Challenger Division for players with physical and mental special needs. Registration for baseball and softball players is accepted online through this Sunday, Jan. 16. Tryouts will be starting next weekend, Jan 22-23. For more information, visit cvll.org or email info@cvll.org. For details regarding the Challenger Division, contact Jim Brophy at 685-1801. MT. DIABLO SOCCER HAS SPRING SEASON SIGNUPS THIS MONTH Signups will be held this month in Concord for boys and girls ages 41/2 to 18 for Mt. Diablo Soccer’s spring AYSO program. The next sign-up is Wednesday, Jan. 19, at Mt. View Elementary School from 6-8 p.m. There is another session on Saturday, Jan. 29, from 12 noon3 p.m. at Concord High School. For more info visit mdsoccer.org. NICK MAZZA REPRESENTS CVHS AT ALL-STAR FOOTBALL GAME Two-way All-DVAL lineman Nick Mazza was picked for the Holiday Classic High School Football Game in Sacramento featuring the East Bay vs. Sacramento All-Stars on the day after Christmas. Mazza rotated in a group of eight defensive linemen for the losing Contra Costa side that was quarterbacked by Concord High’s Ricky Lloyd, the Bay Area Prep of the Year. Mazza ended up with five tackles and a QB sack. Mazza also earned All-NCS honors. ERIC LAWSON ON STRIKEFORCE CARD JAN. 29 Eric Lawson will finally return to the Strikeforce cage on Saturday, Jan. 29, when he takes on Ron Keslar at Strikeforce “Diaz vs. Cyborg” at HP Pavilion in San Jose. This middleweight scrap was originally supposed to take place in October but Lawson was forced to withdraw due to injury. Lawson had a five-fight winning streak snapped in February, when he was submitted by Sherdog MMA Fighter Exchange participant Wayne Phillips at Strikeforce Challengers 6. Visit strikeforce.com for more info. DIABLO YOUTH RUGBY ACCEPTING REGISTRATIONS Diablo Youth Rugby is assembling U10, U12, U14, frosh and varsity teams for the 2011 season, which runs February-May. Registration fee is $225. For additional information, visit diabloyouthrugby.clubspaces.com or call Mike Dominguez at 381-5143.

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Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Sports Oakhurst wins women’s fall league tennis title JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Accumulating a league-leading 74 points, the Oakhurst Country Club women’s tennis team won the Contra Costa B3 Fall League – beating out teams from throughout the county. Lori Woodworth and Susan Sovik each won all five of their matches, while Annie Hahn was 4-0 and Ana Larner 3-0 to lead the way for the team. The seven matches in fall league each included five doubles matches. Oakhurst won five of the seven duals, losing narrowly at home to Crow Canyon Country Club and Lafayette Tennis Club. The wins came over Orinda Country Club, Diablo Country Club, Orindawoods Tennis Club, Clubsport Pleasanton and Danville Station. Ginny Eddy is the captain and the team also includes Patti Baggett, Patti Bradley, Kari

Photo provided by Oakhurst Country Club

THE OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB B TENNIS TEAM won the Contra Costa Fall League. Among the 19 team members were, from left, Carolyn Miller, Heidi Silva, Wendy Schofield, Susan Sovik, Trish Sodergren, Kari Brandt, Becky Diehl, Lori Woodworth and Patti Bradley.

Brandt, Becky Diehl, Kate Happy, Kathy Kuhn, Carolyn Miller, Naomi Rhodes, Wendy Schofield, Heidi Silva, Trish Sodergren, Kirsten Wagner, Linda Walling Stone and Kim

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Waraner. According to tennis director Rick Ortega, the Oakhurst team includes adults from Clayton, Concord and Walnut Creek.

Soccer, from page 12 Joining the varsity coaching staff for the first time after spending the four previous years with the freshman and JV teams is Jack Boeger, replacing Eagle alumnus Megan Swann – who took over as head coach at Ygnacio Valley. Giving the girls invaluable technical training is Brazilian World Cup superstar Sissi, back for a fifth year with the Eagles. “DVAL teams will always surprise you, so I’m leery on speculating how the league is going to stack up this year. Many of the stronger teams in the DVAL seem to be going through a rebuilding year of sorts,” Booth says. “On top of that, injuries to key players seem to be plaguing many teams in the league. Based on what we have seen and know today, we are confident that we will finish at or near the top,” Booth concludes in evaluating the DVAL schedule, which runs through Feb. 10. The NCS playoffs start Feb. 16 and Clayton Valley will be looking to take a step further than last year.

City, participants pleased with new Clayton Gym programs

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Six months after taking over the Clayton Community Gym, Casey Copeland is receiving high marks from the city. His All Out Sports League is looking to pick up the pace of enrollment for the variety of programs offered at the gym on the campus of Diablo View Middle School. Last spring, the city asked Copeland to step into the void left in the wake of the bankruptcy of the Mt. Diablo Region YMCA, which had operated programs at Clayton gym since its opening in 2003. With the demise of the Y, city officials were stuck with a prized community asset and no one to run it. Copeland established AOSL in the Brentwood/Antioch area at the beginning of 2008 and has seen an increase in participants and programs during the past three years. Clayton city staff and officials quickly put together an agreement last spring and All Out Sports League presented its first programs once the Mt. Diablo Unified School District completed its annual summer gym maintenance work. “They’re doing a bang-up job,” Mayor Dave Shuey said. “We were fortunate to find Casey. A lady playing in our volleyball league said there was a guy (Casey) doing a great job in Brentwood. We made contact and soon Councilman Joe Medrano, city manager Gary Napper and I were meeting with him. The city is in no position to have a recreation department and AOSL came right in and established things that worked. They are doing a much better job than the Y did in marketing.”

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BIG SUMMER PLANS Copeland recently sent a report to the city summarizing the summer and fall AOSL programs. Although he says the registration numbers “are picking up,” Copeland was disappointed that he wasn’t able to offer a full summer program last year.

He expects this year’s Summer Slam to be the payoff for all the work he’s done establishing the AOSL brand in Clayton. He will begin advertising Summer Slam in February, months earlier than he was able to market 2010 programs. “It’s starting to pay off. People are starting to recognize us and understand what we are about: fun, organized, fundamentally driven and committed to providing great programs for the residents of Clayton,” Copeland says in his report. He points to participation numbers increasing, with the youth basketball program in particular proving very popular. AOSL has a basketball academy with nearly 50 kids. Parents’ positive feedback included comments such as “This is nothing like the Y.” He surveys users of each program and learned a lot in the first six months. For example, Copeland scheduled extensive gym time for the St. Bonaventure CYO basketball program as a long-time gym user and then realized he had made it extremely hard to offer some popular AOSL programs because the gym was committed. Adult volleyball and basketball leagues have had nearly 200 participants. The popular adult kickball program AOSL has in Antioch might be coming to Clayton this year. People in Clayton like our style, Copeland says. “They appreciate that our sports programs are competitive yet fun. We want to teach kids the right way to play sports.” Another ongoing challenge that both Copeland and city officials point to is the costs associated with the gym operation charged by MDUSD. “I don’t want to get to a point like the Y, which owed the school district a reported $120,000. We want to be billed for when we are actually using the gym.” CONTRACT UP FOR REVIEW Hank Stratford, who was

See Clayton Gym, page 15

January 14, 2011

Pilates a great way to launch the new year I am the master trainer and owner of Levity, a multifunctional group/personal training facility under construction in downtown Clayton. I am excited to introduce myself and “Fitness with Levity,” a new fitness column written to educate and inspire you. I believe fitness is the best vehicle for self-empowerment and for uplifting the spirit. As the new year begins, we are all excited to start anew – racing to discover new ways to pour ourselves into the act of “reforming” in order to experience life with a generous, fulfilled and healthy perspective. We start thinking about how to build solid foundations in order to gain control and prosperity for the year ahead. The task of building solid foundations for the new year is never simple but always necessary. I know a story about a man who built his house upon the sand. In certain circumstances, sand makes a solid foundation, but not if water gets underneath it. So this man watched as the rain poured, the floods rose and the house that he had toiled to build came tumbling down on him. Having failed to build his house on the right foundation, he was left in despair. This story always reminds me that we only have so much time and energy in our lives. We need to be wise and invest in things of true importance. So, invest in your foundations. As fitness innovates, new foundation builders are born. Pilates is one of these amazing foundation builders. It is exercise designed to condition, repair and rejuvenate while uniting body, mind and spirit. Pilates utilizes positions and movements that simulate dayto-day activities while correcting body alignment and balance. As the musculature of the

ILIMA HEUERMAN

FIT

WITH

LEVITY

body is lengthened, flexibility and body awareness increase. Guided, professional instruction is a must. A Pilates reformer is an excellent device that uses springs, pulleys and gravity. It is one of my personal favorites because the equipment challenges deep muscles in diverse ways, concentrating on core strength and stability. Some of the many benefits to a stable and strong core are relief of chronic back pain, increased mobility, improved posture and long, lean, attractive muscles. Pilates is versatile and can be done using stability balls, yoga mats, Pilates rings and Pilates balls for maximum benefit. The foundation of life is the foundation of Pilates – learning to breathe. Relaxed, deep breathing can oxygenate the blood, expel toxins, improve circulation and skin tone, calm mind and body, encourage concentration, add rhythm to body movements and assist in activating target muscles. The pursuit of awareness is endless, and it is what makes Pilates interesting, intriguing and rewarding. Pilates is the ultimate foundation builder. It’s a new year, so begin building your foundations today. Ilima Heuermann holds multiple fitness certifications. Her new fitness center, Levity, will open in the spring in downtown Clayton. Email Ilima at travelingtrainersllc@gmail.com

Keep car in shape to pass smog test

GARY TAYLOR CAR TUNED California started its vehicle smog test program in 1982, becoming the 20th state to adopt such a program. The purpose was to reduce pollution in the air generated by automobiles. Gas-powered vehicles from 1976 and newer require a smog test after a six-year waiver for new cars. Diesel-powered vehicles from 1998 and newer also require testing. A smog check is needed every other year, or if there’s a change of ownership. To help your car pass a smog test, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance. Use first-tier gas (most brand names). If the check engine light comes on, have it checked out. During a smog test, the technician enters the vehicle information into a computer. The vehicle is then connected

to the smog machine, and the car is run at 15 and 25 mph. The technician visually checks to see if all the required emission control systems are there. Then the computer reports the results to the Department of Motor Vehicles and a test report is printed. When you take your car for a smog inspection, tell the service writer if there are any lights on the dash that do not go off when the engine is running, if the car not been used in the past few weeks, if you have to jump start the engine or if the battery has been disconnected. When you receive a registration renewal notice from the DMV that says a smog certificate is required, you may need to go to a test-only shop. These shop cannot do any repair or adjustment. If your car fails, it will need to go to a licensed smog repair shop to be diagnosed and repaired before retested. It’s important to use a licensed smog repair shop for smog-related repairs. Then if there is a problem with a repair, you can take advantage of some programs offered by the state. Gary Taylor is service manager at Clayton Valley Shell. Call him with questions at (925) 672-3900

January 14, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page 15

Book Review

Short stories weave into compelling tale A writer’s job is to spin a story securely connected to something resembling the real world, but sometimes that world isn’t one the reader knows by heart. It may be as foreign as a language learned in high school – with only small memories remaining. What I love about “Vida,” Patricia Engel’s collection of stories as a novel, is that she writes like a house on fire. Engel writes in the fluid slang of a Miami via New Jersey second generation immigrant, and as much as I want to, I will never completely understand it. The story tells the malaise of a twenty-something girl fleeing the

sameness of the New Jersey suburbs for the flash and speed of Miami. Readers may think: Been there, done that – but not like this. “Vida” unfolds in nine installments, each a snapshot of Sabina’s world. Luco is the boy she fell in love with accidentally as a 14 year old. He was cool, she was awkward and there is a Shakespearean air of tragedy to their romance, a love not wholly developed. Refuge is the story of a girl who should have been in the Twin Towers but called in sick that day. Her lover, Nico, is cruel and treats her badly. But her guitar teacher, a sweet man with a gift for music

and a knack for rescuing sad women, harbors her until she can return home again and is able to navigate the scorched chaos following 9/11. Green is a passage that allows a peek behind the curtain of high school abuses. That narrow backward gaze is reassuring, showing you hadn’t made up all that crazy business you endured either. The girl who tortured Sabina in high school has died, and her mother calls with the news. It is neither good news nor bad, it is simply the accumulated recollections of a girl forever standing in the margins. Desaliento is an education in

the difference between the Columbians and Argentinos, the Ukranians and Russians, the Israelis of South Beach. The world is bright, textured and as foreign as the moon. Diego is the no-good boyfriend in this story, who calls up Sabina long after he has disappeared, driving cross country to California then Mexico. She realizes that he will never come back, not even “coyote style.” Vida is the story in this collection that fractures my heart. In it, Davida comes to Miami lured by promises of a career in the beauty pageant circuit by an acquaintance in Columbia. But when she arrives

in the states, she finds that the “friend” has pimped her. She is beaten and kept as a prostitute in a Miami slum. Sabina and Vida become friends after she escapes the brothel because their Hungarian boyfriends are pals, but still these girls are really only half living. One night, Sabina and Vida jump in Sabina’s car and drive all the way to New Jersey. Sabina begs her parents to save Vida, and they do. They buy her a one-way ticket back to the Madre Patria so she can start her life anew. Without Engel, we might never know these people. Her nar-

Clayton Gym, from page 14

pation of the community. “If we do not utilize the programs they offer or recommend programs that would be utilized as a community, then we could lose the benefits they bring.” According to Napper, the city’s contract with AOSL for community recreation programs and services at the gym expires June 30. He says the parties will meet prior to May 1 “to determine progress and successes to date and decide if it is the mutual interest of both parties to continue the arrangement.”

Echoing comments from council members, Napper adds, “The city has heard nothing but positive feedback on the high level of organization, enthusiasm, quality of programs and sports education skills offered by AOSL and we are very pleased with the performance and excellent standards of recreation provided by Casey Copeland and his AOSL team so far.” Napper says Copeland has been responsive to the city’s inquiries on the recreation programs. “We continue to believe

AOSL has the experience necessary to build popular and successful community recreation for Clayton. The city encourages our community to check out all the good things happening with AOSL at the gym for our youth and adults.” Copeland says AOSL is ramping up much quicker in Clayton than it did in Brentwood/Antioch. “We are getting thousands of hits to our Website and positive feedback from our participants,” he reports. AOSL is not yet a full-time

mayor when the gym issue arose, says Copeland has done a great job getting programs and leagues up and running. “We are seeing continual growth of the programs and acceptance by the community. So far, it has been a great partnership.” Medrano was on the council subcommittee with Shuey that made the arrangement with AOSL. “We are very happy to have All Out Sports League in

Clayton. We have been getting positive responses about Casey and his team,” Medrano says. “They offer a broader spectrum of programs than we had before, not only for kids but adults as well. And they encourage the community to provide input to what programs they would like to have in town.” While AOSL is off to a good start, Medrano points out they still need the support and partici-

CYNTHIA GREGORY

FOR

THE

BOOKS

rative is sharp and gritty, seasoned with Spanish, and you won’t want to miss a word. Cynthia Gregory writes book reviews, award-winning short stories and a blog. Visit her at www.twogirlstakeonlove.com or write ceegregory@aol.com

endeavor for Copeland. A former standout college football player, Copeland has spent more than 20 years in the corporate world – experience he brings to bear in the programs and marketing he does for AOSL. “He does this as a ‘side business.’ People like the programs and him,” Shuey says. “He’s energetic and helped Clayton make lemonade out of lemons.” For more information, visit www.leaguelineup.com/alloutsportsleague-clayton.

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JAN. 19 FOR THE JAN. 28 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

ENTERTAINMENT Through Jan. 16 “Sister Robert Anne’s Cabaret Class” The Willows presents everybody’s favorite nun. Campbell Theatre, 626 Ward Street, Martinez. www.willowstheatre.org or 798-1300. Jan. 22 John McCutcheon in Concert The folk singer is also a storyteller, activist and author. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Tickets $20 in advance at www.brownpapertickets.com or $25 at door. Jan. 23 California Symphony in Concert “The Suite Sounds of the California Symphony,” conducted by Michael Berkowitz, brings your favorite songs from stage and screen to a whole new level. Sunday, Jan. 23, 4 p.m. at the Lesher Center for the Arts in downtown Walnut Creek. For ticket info call the California Symphony office at (925) 280-2490. Jan. 27, 28 “Musical Revue of Rodgers and Hammerstein” Presented by Youth Theatre Company’s Teen Theatre. 7 p.m., Shadelands Auditorium, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. $10. 943-5846 or www.youththeatrecompany.org. Jan. 28-Feb. 3 International Film Showcase Feature films screened for seven days each month. First up is “Max Manus.” Orinda Theater, 2 Orinda Theater Square. www.lfef.org or www.facebook.com/pages/International-Film-Showcase. Jan. 28-Feb. 26 “Boeing-Boeing” A Parisian playboy has designed his perfect life – or so he thinks. This Tony Award Winning comedy will have you airborne with laughter. Center REPertory Company, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets range from $36-$42. Go to CenterREP.org or call (925) 943.SHOW (7469), or go to the LCA Ticket Office at 1601 Civic Drive or the Ticket Office Outlet at Barnes & Noble in Walnut Creek.

SCHOOLS Jan. 15 12-hour Music-A-Thon Sponsored by the Mount Diablo Music Education Foundation. Featuring music students from local schools. 10 a.m., Ygnacio Valley High School, 755 Oak Grove Road, Concord. $5 adults, $3 students. 827-5706 or mdmusicfoundation.org.

AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. 673-0659 or claytonlibrary.org. Tuesdays through March 1 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. Drop in 11 a.m. Thursdays through March 10 Picture Book Time Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. Drop in 11 a.m. Jan. 20 “Sure-fire Strategies for Job Seekers Over 50” An interactive workshop presented by job search specialist Mary Eileen Williams. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Jan. 22, Feb. 26, March 19 “Winter Watercolors” A three-part, hands-on art program sponsored by the Creekside Artists Guild. 2 p.m. Jan. 22, “Florals” with Alice Martinez. 10 a.m. Feb. 26, “Plein Air Landscapes” with Leslie Wilson. 10 a.m. March 19, “A Study in Shadow and Light, Portraiture,” with Anne Sackman - experienced students only. For ages 17 and up. Register at www.ccclib.org or 673-0659. Jan. 29, Feb. 5 SAT/ACT Practice Test Presented by Princeton Review. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Follow-up strategy session 10:30-11:30 a.m. Feb. 5. Register at www.ccclib.org or 673-0659.

Jan. 30 Dog Safety Seminar Taught by Barbara Dwyer. The first half will focus on children and dog safety, with the second half on canine behavior. Sponsored by Clayton K-9 Coalition. 1-3 p.m. Jan. 31 “Blind Cats: Veiled Women in Saudi Arabia, Europe and Canada” Learn what it’s like to wear a veil and why men want “their” women to veil. Presented by Jean Grant, who lived in the Middle East for 20 years. 7 p.m. Feb. 9 “Recess: It’s Not Just for Kids” A workshop designed to help people remember their intrinsic value, celebrate themselves and have fun. Presented by Karen St. Julien. 7:15-8:45 p.m. Through Feb. 14 Bookmark Design Contest Winning entries will be printed for giveaway at the library. This year’s theme is “I Love Books.” For ages 3-12. Pick up an entry form at the Information Desk.

MEETINGS Jan. 18 Clayton City Council 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. Jan. 25 Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. Jan. 25 Mt. Diablo Unified School District 7:30 p.m., 1936 Carlotta Dr., Concord. mdusd.org.

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Pioneer Photo Album Send in your cute pets, funny kids, great landscapes, favorite sites in town or whatever makes your heart beat a little faster. Email your photo in a hi-resolution jpeg or tiff format to album@claytonpioneer.com with a description of the photo, where and when it was taken and a little about why you like it. Include your name and phone number.

January 14, 2011

Teens pause during holiday season to remember fallen veterans

Dan Casella is a retired engineer and amateur photographer living in Oakhurst. He took this composite photo of the lunar eclipse on Dec. 20. CIVIL AIR PATROL CADETS SALUTE THE VETERANS BURIED AT THE PRESIDIO after placing an evergreen wreath on each of the 1600 headstones in the cemetery. Local teens Alex Jennings, Stefano Rahimzadeh and Quincy Winship were among the cadets gathered on Dec. 11 in the Wreaths Across America remembrance. APRIL WINSHIP Special to the Pioneer

On a cold Saturday morning in December, when most teenagers would rather be sleeping, the Civil Air Patrol Cadets of Squadron 44 found themselves walking amongst the foggy graves in the National Cemetery at the Presidio, in San Francisco. They were continuing a tradition of honoring our nation’s veterans with evergreen wreaths. As the Cadets placed a wreath against each of 1600 headstones, there was a moment of silence followed by a salute. This otherwise somber and grey place then became ablaze in red and green. A military 21-gun salute followed the short ceremony and when the last strains of Taps faded, Scouts and families joined with the Cadets to remember and give thanks to each veteran for their sacrifice. The symbolism and message broadcast on that chilly winter morning was clear. The

freedom every American enjoys, came, and still comes, at great sacrifice. The effort begins each fall with cadets honing their writing and public speaking skills and organizing presentations to their local business leaders, clubs, churches, neighbors, friends and family, raising sponsorship and public awareness about the Wreaths Across America program whose motto is to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach our children the value of freedom. Wreaths Across America began in 1992 with the donation of 5,000 holiday wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery. In 2005, a dramatic photograph taken by an Air Force photographer appeared on the internet and inspired thousands of requests from people all over the country wanting to emulate the Arlington Wreath Program at their local national and state veterans cemeteries, leading to the creation of

the Wreaths Across America observance. “I believe we all took away a little more than we gave today” my husband remarked as we surveyed the wreath adorned hills of the Presidio. The Civil Air Patrol is an auxiliary of the United States Air Force with its cadet program serving members from ages 1220. For more information visit: www.gocivilairpatrol.com. For more info about the Wreaths Across America program, go to www. WreathsAcrossAmerica.org.

Grand Canyon adventure begins closer to home KAREN LEFFLER Special to the Pioneer

If getting fit, making a difference in your community or exploring the Bay Area on foot are on your New Year’s resolution list, Shelter, Inc. has just the answer. Plus, you can throw in a dream trip to the Grand Canyon. “Hike for Shelter/Conquer the Grand Canyon” is a comprehensive, 16-week training program with eight team hikes in regional parks such as Mt. Diablo and Mitchell Canyon. The team is limited to 50 people of all levels of ability, from casual walkers to seasoned hikers. Beginning this month, the hikers prepare for a one-day guided hike in the Grand Canyon on a trail based on individual interest and ability. Besides getting fit, the reward for training and fundraising is an expense paid four-day, three-night trip to the Grand Canyon April 28-May 1. Less than 1 percent of the millions of people who visit the Grand Canyon ever step foot on a trail, and only 5 percent of that 1 percent ever step foot on a trail with a professional guide. This grassroots team fundraising adventure raises $250,000 for families with children facing homelessness in Contra Costa County. Shelter, Inc. has been helping families since 1986. Each hiker commits to bring awareness of Shelter, Inc. and homelessness while raising funds to support its mission. When hikers reach their minimum fundraising goal, the trip is paid for – including airfare, lodging, training, most meals and guides. Leffler is hike coordinator for Hike for Shelter. For more information, call 323-2996, visit www.conquerthecanyon.com/SHELTER.ht m or email hike@shelterincofccc.org.

January 14, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page 17

The rose looks fair, but only if it’s pruned This is going to be a fabulous year for all my friends who like to get their hands a little dirty in the yard. With every new year, I get excited about the potential for great flowers and lush foliage. I always start the year off with the roses. Each January, I begin pruning back the roses with the hope of being finished by Valentine’s Day. I prune each rose, remove every leaf and fertilize with a proven five-ingredient recipe. This is a lengthy process, but the results are impressive. When pruning a hybrid tea, grandiflora or floribunda rose, I always start at the bottom. It is easier to cut the canes of the rose back hard if you don’t look at all the green leaves and remnant blooms. Since you’ll need to remove all of last year’s leaves, starting low will eliminate having to strip off leaves. Cut the canes down to 16-18 inches from the ground. You don’t want to have any crossing canes, so remove the one that appears the least straight. Old, gray canes should be removed with a pruning saw. In a perfect world, you are left with five canes, but don’t be too concerned if you have fewer canes. As long as you have been

Lindsay Museum plans a “Wild Night” On Jan. 29, visitors can find out what lurks behind closed doors after hours at the Lindsay Wildlife Museum. Peter Gros from “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” will bring some of his very best friends for a “Wild Night at the Museum.” Among the menagerie on hand to entertain and educate will be a golden spider monkey, a blackthroated monitor lizard, an alligator, a porcupine, a kangaroo and an alpaca. Peter Gros has nearly 30 years of field experience with captive wildlife. As a past Director of Land Animals at Marine World/Africa USA, he established breeding programs for 377 endangered animals. He also developed a rehabilitation program for birds of prey, as well as the largest captive breeding colony of ostriches in the United States. The fundraising event will include crafts, face painting and stories for the children, plus beer, wine and food sampling for the grownups. A raffle will offer prizes for the entire family, along with a silent auction. The Lindsay Wildlife Museum features live, native California animals, a hands-on discovery room for children, a pet education section with domestic animals, changing exhibits, scores of educational programs and a wildlife rehabilitation hospital that treats about 5,000 animals every year. The event runs 6-9 p.m. at the museum, 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. Adult tickets are $50 and include one child’s admission. Additional children’s tickets are $10. RSVP by Jan. 21 at 627-2951 or www.wildlife-museum.org/wildnight.

moderately happy with the rose’s performance, it will do fine. But still cut it down the way you do the others. When the pruning is finished, the plant should look like an empty basket. TACKLE THE CLIMBERS TOO Tree roses are treated similarly. Prune the canes down, leaving less left, about 10-12 inches. Groundcover roses are incredibly popular, and are easier to maintain. But they too need to be pruned during January. I like to just go at them, really rounding them out and removing about two-thirds of their overall size. Climbing roses also need some pruning. Prune the lateral branches and remove one-third of

the height. If it has been many years since you pruned the climbers, cut them back hard. Thinning the canes is also a good idea. If the climber is thick and bushy, remove some of the older canes entirely. This will lighten the look of the rose and encourage air circulation, which will decrease fungus and mildew. A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS Once the roses have been pruned, it is time to fertilize. This recipe has been available for as long as I have been paying attention to roses. I don’t know where it originated, but I do know that it works. I am embarrassed to say that last year I got lazy and tried to cut

corners with my fertilizing. My roses were pathetic and I missed the usual robust displays. This year, I will not be cheating roses of their needs. The recipe is ½ cup 16-16-16 multipurpose granular fertilizer, 2 tablespoons Epson salt, ½ cup F.S.T. iron and sulfur granular, ½ cup bone meal and ½ cup alfalfa meal. Work this in around the former drip line of the soil. Using a hand claw, incorporate the product 2-3 inches down. Don’t dump the fertilizer too close to the base of the rose; it will not do any good. Apply it where the feeder roots can get their hands on it. When you are finished applying the recipe, top-dress the soil

with a rich conditioner designed for blooming plants and vegetables. Do not use a soil conditioner with built-in fertilizers, because the rose has already been fed. Feed roses this way now and again in the beginning of August. If you want to go a step further, spray roses with a horticultural oil and fungicide. Some people have more problems with their roses than others. If you experienced black spot or mildew on the leaves or thrips on the rose buds, consider spraying. But don’t spray if you don’t have problems that need addressing. Roses are great in our Clayton Valley gardens. They tolerate every bit of the sun and take little water once established. Some

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL roses are better than others are, and all are rated by All-America Rose Selections (AARS). Try to keep selections above an 8.0 for the best bloom and the most disease and pest resistance. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

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January 14, 2011

FOR

THOUGHT

Who doesn’t think about changing eating habits come the New Year? Most of us at least swear off food like French fries and chocolate chip cookies…at least for a while. But, rather than turn away from foods, think about adding new healthier choices to your diet. Try broccoli. Even if you’re a fan of the first President Bush (who publicly disdained the vegetable), there are lots of ways to work broccoli into dishes to disguise its appearance but reap its benefits. Then again, if you’re already a devotee, finding new ways to enjoy broccoli beyond merely steaming it can bring some excitement to the dinner table. Called calabrese by the Italians (and “the five green fingers of Jupiter” by the ancient Romans), it derives its English name from bracho, or arms, because a stem of broccoli resembles branches of a tree. It’s been a main vegetable in the Mediterranean diet for some 2,000 years but has been grown commercially in the U.S. for less than 100 years. Early farming efforts were based in New York, where there is a short growing season but once farmers settled California’s fertile Salinas Valley, broccoli became available virtually year-round. A member of the mustard fam-

ily, broccoli (along with cabbage and cauliflower) are considered cruciferous vegetables and known for their cancer-preventive properties. One serving has only 50 calories, tons of fiber, as much calcium as a cup of milk, and 200 percent of the daily recommendation for Vitamin C. Good quality broccoli will be dark green to almost purplish in color, tightly budded and have a firm stalk. In my book, fresh is better than frozen. If you opt for frozen, be aware that some frozen packages include salt (sodium) for preservation. I prefer broccoli that is steamed or boiled al dente, where a knife can pierce a stem easily but the florets are bright green and crisp. I used to throw away the thick stem until I learned that peeling and slicing it up made a great stir-fry ingredient and grating it is good in coleslaw. Here’s a recipe for “stealth” broccoli:

Add the broccoli and simmer 5 to 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. Transfer the soup to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Return the soup to a clean pan and add the cream and most of the cheese (reserve a little for topping) and cook over low heat, stirring, until the cheese is fully melted. Serve the soup in bowls topped with the reserved cheese and a scattering of chives. I enjoy broccoli-beef stir-fry but was always disappointed with the broccoli portion. It would be underdone or so overcooked as to be charred (and broccoli is yucky when over-browned). More recently, I learned that adding steamed florets toward the end of cooking the dish gave me just the flavor and texture I was looking for. BROCCOLI-BEEF STIR-FRY 3 Tbsp cornstarch ½ tsp garlic powder 1 lb boneless round, flank or skirt steak, cut into thin 3” strips 2 Tbsp vegetable oil, divided 4 c broccoli florets, steamed to crisp-tender 1 small onion, cut into wedges

BROCCOLI AND CHEESE SOUP 4 Tbsp butter 2 onions, chopped 1 potato, diced 3 ½ c vegetable stock 1 broccoli crown (about 1 lb) 2/3 c heavy cream ½ lb cheddar (grated) OR bleu cheese (crumbled) 2 Tbsp snipped chives or green onion tops Break the broccoli into florets and set aside. Heat a large saucepan or small stockpot over medium heat, melt the butter and add the onions. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 7-8 minutes, or until onions are soft but not browned. Add the potato and stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes (potatoes should just be turning tender).

1/3 c soy sauce 1 Tbsp rice wine 2 Tbsp brown sugar 1 tsp ground ginger or 1 tsp freshly grated ginger Stir together 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 4 tablespoons water and garlic powder until smooth. Add beef and toss. Set aside. Combine soy sauce, rice wine, ½ c water, brown sugar, ginger and remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Stir until smooth; set aside. Heat a large wok or skillet over medium high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and beef (shake to remove excess marinade). Stir-fry until beef is cooked through. Remove and keep warm. Add remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan and add the onion. Stir-fry for 3 or 4 minutes, then add prepared broccoli. Cook for 2 minutes. Add beef and sauce; stir-fry for 2 minutes until sauce is thick and ingredients are well-coated. 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

Right Thing, from page 10 heart without expecting it in return. One of my New Year’s resolutions is to make doing the right thing my first priority. Practicing what I preach is important to me. I wish I could say I was the epitome of always thinking of others first, but I am just like everyone else. At times, I can get wrapped up in my own world. Life can be dog-eat-dog, so a good New Year’s resolution is to

just do the right thing whenever possible and think about others. You don’t have to be perfect, just look for opportunities to help where you can. And finally, keep an eye out for the DVMS Do the Right Thing wrist bands. Thank the person for their kindness and try to pass it on. Robbie Parker is an eighthgrader at Diablo View. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com

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