IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
925.672.0500
Curry fire burns 357 acres TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
A fast moving grassfire on Mt. Diablo at the top of Curry Canyon last month charred 375 acres and rattled the nerves of residents in Curry Creek and along Morgan Territory Road. The fire started around 4 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 24. By early Tuesday morning, it was 80 percent contained and out by Friday. The remote location, low humidity and temperatures well above 100 degrees created a very serious situation. More than 200 firefighters from Cal Fire, Contra Costa Fire Protection and San Ramon Fire battled the heat, smoke and thousands of panicked tarantulas as they worked to contain the blaze. Six tankers and three helicopters dropped fire retardant and water from the air. The fire threatened several homes on Curry Canyon Road, but no structures were lost. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Initial reports of a downed power pole were incorrect, said Cal Fire Battalion Chief Mike Marcucci. See page 6 for more on Morgan Territory/ Marsh Creek area fire protection.
HANK STRATFORD
MAYOR’S CORNER It takes a village to run a school Now that school has started, I have been trying to figure out where the summer went. I remember as a kid being a little nervous the night before the first day of school. I always had a slight feeling of dread (OK, maybe more than slight) as I counted how many months until the next summer. However, once the school year
See Mayor, page 9
A CAL FIRE/CDF HELICOPTER DIPS INTO A COW POND on Marsh Creek Road to fill the tank. Minutes later, the water was dumped on the Curry Canyon fire. Local ponds provide a quick source of water to fight wildfires in rural areas. This photo was taken by Jared Woods, a Morgan Territory resident and 8th grade student at Diablo View Middle School.
It took a little ribbing to HGTV personality makes a raise community spirit splash at hardware store opening The grand opening of Orchard Supply Hardware on Sept. 11 will include an appearance by Danielle Hirsch, cohost of HGTV’s “Color Splash.” The long-awaited new store
officially opens in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 7 a.m. The celebration will continue throughout the weekend. The 43,000 sq. ft. store will employ 60 associates, said man-
ager Gary Siegrist. The store includes a 14,000 sq. ft. nursery, where plants come with a lifetime guarantee. The interior features a comfortable shopping
See OSH, page 4
School leaders push past finances toward success DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer
Rather than buckling under the pressure of increasing student rolls and slashed budgets, local principals still hold high hopes and maintain a dogged determination to ensure that no student misses a chance for a good education. Some, like Gary Swanson of Clayton Valley High School, have been on the job for many
See Principals, page 8
Station 11 remembers 9-11comrades Mike Dunn/Clayton Pioneer
JOHN SCHIAPPACASSE BITES INTO HIS OWN COOKING at the CBCA rib cookoff and membership drive on Aug. 21. DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
“Low and slow” was the philosophy of the day at Clayton’s first Rib Cook-Off in the backyard of the downtown Clayton Club. In the late summertime heat,
attendees listened to local band The Relyks as they wandered from one grilling contestant’s booth to the next, sampling ribs and sharing stories of their summer adventures with friends and neighbors. Clayton hairstylist Jim Frazier conceived the idea for the free public event as a publicity and membership drive for the nonprofit Clayton Business and Community Association. With the help of local Realtor Rob Robertson and a team of volunteers, Frazier’s idea quickly took off. Just six weeks after the event was proposed, an estimated 500
See Ribs, page 3
The front lawns of the Clayton firehouse are alive with red, white and blue as 343 small flags flutter in the breeze – one for each of the 343 firefighters lost in the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in 2001. Each flag is in memory of a lost comrade. A card with the firefighter’s photo, dates of service and a brief memorial is attached. “I feel like I have to stop and read each one,” says an emotional Capt. Terry Newberry. “This is too close to home. These guys are part of us. Ken Robb measures carefully, preparing to start a new row. He stops in the middle and reads the card in front of him. “This guy was 62,” he says, quietly. “Served a long time.” The flag memorial will stay in place for a week following 9-11.
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Church News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
CCFPD Capt. Terry Newberry and firefighters Jared Parant and Ken Robb place the flags for the annual 9-11 memorial at the Clayton firestation.
Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Community Calendar . . . . . . . .16 Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . .5 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . . . .20 From the Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Letters to the Editor . . . . . . . . . . .7 Parenting Today . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 School News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
Around Town Where in the world did we go this summer?
PB&Js head for the ball game A stack of PB&J sandwiches bound for the CVHS freshman football team had its origins in the Station 11 firehouse last week Parents of a team member, Capt. Terry and Diane Newberry volunteered to make the sandwiches for the team’s first away game. The sandwiches are a tradition started by Coach Herc Pardi, said Diane.
ITALY Buon Giorno, Clayton. The Pioneer went along with the Pardi family for a once-in-a-lifetime, fiveweek trip to Europe. We were everywhere, it seems — from Dublin to Turino. Here we are at the “Museum of Everything” in Turino with (back row) Meghan Pardi, Leslie Curry, Antonio Caggiano and (front row) Emanuela Caggiano, Herc and Roxanne Pardi.
HAWAII Last month, we kicked back with Sylvia and Nicolette Medrano on the Big Island of Hawaii. We snorkled and spotted sea turtles (well, they snorkled...water is not newsprint’s friend), went kayaking among the dolphins, and visited the picturesque black sands beaches. Here we are in Na’alehu – the southernmost town of the 50 U.S. states. Nicole says “My favorite part of the trip was learning how to stand up paddle board!”
Locks of Love gets Madelyn’s braids for the third time Madelyn Vines, now 8 years old and in the third grade at Mt. Diablo Elementary, has donated 10 inches of her hair to Locks of Love for the third time. She could hardly wait for it to grow the last inch because it was hot during the summer months. She is loving her new “short” hair and has the shortest hair of all her friends for the very first time ever.
LEADVILLE, COLORADO Steve Biggs completed the Leadville Trail 100 Mountain Bike Race in Leadville, Colorado last month. The entire race takes place at 9,000 feet, climbing to almost 13,000 feet in places. The Pioneer got to go along and enjoy the high altitude views while Steve did all the work, completing the 100-mile course in 10 hours and 59 minutes. Pictured are Steve with nieces Jacey and Rilee who worked in his crew at a mid-ride stop and then met him at the finish line.
DISNEYWORLD, ORLANDO Two Clayton families spent part of their summer vacationing in Orlando together this summer. And guess who got to go along? The Pioneer joined the Newberrys and Cademartoris as we took in all things Disney. We saw Harry Potter World and they all swam with the sharks and the dolphins. “And of course, said Diane, “we took along our favorite paper, the Clayton Pioneer,” Pictured with us are (left to right) Dave Cademartori with Emily, Stephanie, Jessie and Sara (in front) and Neberrys Diane, Terry and Jason.
Clayton
Clayton Regency Woods! Great single story tucked away at the end of a quiet court backing to open space!
Oakhurst Country Club! Peacock Creek! Stunning “Coronado” on a premium view lot backing to open space with un-obstructed breath taking views of oak dotted hills, canyons/valley & Mt. Diablo. Private quiet court setting! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths plus a loft, approx. 3308sf & 3 car garage! Rare & desirable first floor master suite! Elegant living & dining room with fireplace. Spacious gourmet kitchen opens to large family room with soaring ceiling, fireplace & wall of windows. Meticulously maintained professionally landscaped huge level lot features a sprawling lush lawn, custom patio, palm trees & a variety of ornamentals! $829,000
ALASKA Baby, it’s cold out here. We shivered along with Herb Yonge and granddaughter, Madelyn Knutson, on 13 - day cruise and land tour in Alaska. The adventure included a helicopter trip onto Herbert Glacier outside of Juneau Alaska.
ZAMBIA In Zambia, we helped Clayton Community Church members dig wells to bring fresh water to remote villages. Here we are with Pastor Shawn Robinson. Look for more on the Zambia trip in the next issue of the Pioneer.
GEORGE VUJNOVICH Broker Helping friends, neighbors & newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979
4 bedrooms, 2 updated baths, approx. 1895sf . Updated kitchen boast gorgeous slab granite counters, gleaming hardwood floors & breakfast nook with Bay window! Combination step sown living and dining room. Family features hardwood floors a brick fireplace with raised hearth & slider to yard! Roomy master suite offers dual closets with extensive organizer system & slider to private patio. Large totally private .20 acre lot backs to open space and features multiple patio areas, lawn area & mature lush landscape! $509,000
georgevujnovich.com
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated. Better Homes DRE#00933393
(925)
Walnut Creek
Clayton
Clayton
6160 Center St., Suite E, Clayton
Oakhurst Country Club! Large “Serenade” model at the top of Falcon Ridge on a prime view lot overlooking City,
Main Chance Estates! Desirable Quiet Location in Complex.
672-4433
valley & hills below! 3 bedrooms plus a Den, 3 baths,
PENDING PENDING Oakhurst Country Club! Peacock Creek! Sensational “Legacy” model on a premium lot 2 Master bedroom suites, 2.5 baths, approx. 1185sf. Exquisitely updated from the flooring to the lighting! Slab granite kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Updated baths boast slab granite counters, tile flooring, upgraded lighting & fixtures. Large combination living & dining room with fireplace. $399,000
backing to open space! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3185sf + Rare 4 car garage! 1st floor guest suite with private bath. Gourmet kitchen! Huge master with retreat, fireplace & balcony with tranquil views of open space. Gorgeous lot features sparkling pool with built-in spa & waterfall feature, trellis covered BBQ island & tropical themed landscape! $719,000
approx. 3079sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage! Gourmet kitchen opens to large family room. Spacious master with magnificent views! $699,000
Clayton Market Update provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS
PRICE
5614 Ohman Pl ........................$558,000 237 El Pueblo Pl.......................$675,000 1163 Moccasin Court ...............$443,699 216 Condor Way ......................$533,000 5225 Keller Ridge Dr................$850,000 1388 Shell Ln ...........................$399,000
SF . . . . .2398 . . . . .2643 . . . . .1639 . . . . .1710 . . . . .2894 . . . . .1709
BED/BATH
SALE DATE
. . . . .4/2.5 . . . .8/30/10 . . . . .5/3 . . . . .8/26/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . .8/19/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . .8/18/10 . . . . .3/3 . . . . .8/17/10 . . . . .3/3 . . . . .8/13/10
ADDRESS
PRICE
709 Acorn Dr ............................$795,000 1100 Easley Dr .........................$575,000 302 Mountaire Parkway ...........$780,000 5126 Keller Ridge Drive ...........$435,000 118 Forest Hill Drive.................$700,000 31 Nottingham Cir ....................$525,000
SF . . . . .2543 . . . . .2298 . . . . .2691 . . . . .1493 . . . . .3185 . . . . .2017
BED/BATH
SALE DATE
. . . . .4/2.5 . . . .8/12/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . .8/12/10 . . . . .5/3 . . . . .7/29/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . .7/23/10 . . . . .5/3.1 . . . .7/16/10 . . . . .3/2 . . . . .7/11/10
September 10, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Ribs, from page 1
people came out to sample ribs from 16 teams. Frazier had a grill of his own going. He talked philosophy while he spread sauce over the ribs and turned vegetables to keep them from burning. “I think that’s kind of good advice for the way to go about life,” he said. “You’ve got to go low and slow.” Each team was given six racks of ribs and several hours to work their own special brands of magic before two sets of judges rated the entries. Judges, including City Councilwoman Julie Pierce and local restaurant owner Ed
No tickets for these Main Street speeders
Moresi, rated the ribs on a scale of 2-9, with two being outstanding and nine described by one judge as inedible. Judge Dan Lawrence, Clayton’s police chief, described the entries as spanning a “wide range of good to outstanding.” “I would have been pleased to have a couple of them at our restaurants,” Moresi noted. A separate group of judges was chosen at random from raffle tickets offered to the public attending the event. Judge Mark Jones described the perfect rib as having just the right amount of tenderness. And as a rib cooker himself, he agreed with most of the contestants that the key to making ribs is patience. “Don’t rush it and don’t use propane,” he said through a mouthful.
Contestants’ strategies ranged from using grills they’d carefully designed themselves to closely guarded dry rubs and sauces. Greg Ferrell, who won first prize, used a grill shaped like a UFO and described it as a UBO, or Unidentified Barbecuing Object. Using his own secret recipe sauce, he declined to lift the lid to offer passers-by a peek at the meat until it was perfectly done. “If you’re looking, you’re not cooking,” he said with a smile. Ryan and Jennifer Lowe, sporting aprons that said Lowe Quality Barbecue, won third prize and plan to return next year. Ryan is a former vegan who used a large, egg-shaped smoker to slow cook their entry. “One day I decided I really needed protein, and I’ve been cooking meat ever since,” he explained. Longtime Clayton resident Sanjay Ray enjoyed grilling with his two sons, both graduates of Clayton Valley High School who came back from their homes in Boston and Los Angeles for the event. Their booth, with two small Weber grills tucked into the back of a row, may have been easy for passers-by to miss, but nonetheless they took second prize. The People’s Choice award went to Cecilia Hartley. “I’m shocked,” the novice griller said with a laugh after winning the
biggest trophy on the table. Her advice for future entrants was simple: “Don’t ever think you have to be an expert – just get in for the fun of it.” Pierce said that events like this are especially important to people whose busy lives might otherwise preclude them from being part of the community. “It brings out the community,” she said. “Just like the concerts (in the Grove), it gets everybody out visiting, recognizing how great a town we have.” “It proves that Clayton is very unique in the sense of community, that these events bring the whole town together,” Moresi added. “If you want to participate in Clayton, you have the opportunity to be part of something really special.” Asked what he planned to do with his $300 in winnings, Ferrell said the cash prize was secondary to the joy of participating in the event. “The money I’m not going to remember. It’s all for the children and the community.” Photos: Mike Dunn
Clockwise from upper left: Event organizer Jim Frazier is tightlipped about his ‘secret’ sauce; Councilwoman Julie Pierce served as a judge; Cecelia Hartley’s ribs took the People’s Choice Award; Connor and Riley Maddox tear into their finger lickin’, lip smackin’ good ribs; Cookoff winner Greg Ferrell stands next to his UBO - unidentified barbeque object.
Mike Dunn/Clayton Pioneer
THE ADULTS HAD ALMOST AS MUCH FUN AS THE KIDS at the annual Labor Day Derby last Saturday. From left, race announcer Dave Shuey, CC Church pastor Shawn Robinson and Classic Car Show organizer Doug LaVenture.
MIKE DUNN Clayton Pioneer
All morning, sporty little Derby cars with kids in control (or not) sped down Main Street, crashing into bales of hay and, sometimes, each other – all in the name of fun. The seventh annual Clayton Community Church Labor Day Boxcar Derby and Classic Car Show was in town. No injuries to cars or kids, save for a few bruised egos. Each year, the event draws more than 1,500. Nearly 300 kids from Clayton, Concord and and surrounding areas participate in several age categories. The snappy little cars, some with very elaborate paint jobs, are provided by local businesses. While the kids were racing at one end of town, the other end of town saw more than 350 classic and vintage cars at the biggest show, yet. Cars included
vintage cop cars, themed cars, and two race cars from Infineon Raceway. Dale Schell of Concord entered his 1969 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow. John Muller’s 1936 Chevy Coupe was all done in a western theme, inside and out, down to the longhorns attached to the front grill and six-shooter door handles. “We’ve been here for seven years since the derby started. We gave out water bottles and we ran out really early,” said Jeanine Wakefield, a Realtor for Weichert Realtors who was handing out yellow balloons. “This is the biggest turnout ever so it’s great!” Clayton Community Church Pastor Shawn Robinson asked one young racer what he learned from his race. “Keep your head down low,” he said. “And don’t go over the bumps.” Sounds like pretty good advice for everyone.
COMING SOON
JUST LISTED
JUST LISTED
NEW PRICE
Peacock Creek, Clayton Sought-after single-story w/3,030 s.f. on prime corner lot has over $200K in top-of-the line upgrades & incredible custom landscaping. Call Lynne for details on this amazing home.
$569,000 328 Mt. Washington Way, Clayton Dana Hills – Single-story ranch home with 4BD/2BA has fireplace, built-ins in living & family rooms, and a wonderful plush backyard with a relaxing spa.
267 Mountaire Parkway, Clayton $659,000 Dana Hills – Premium lot & views from this 5BD/2.5BA 2,694 s.f. home updated to please including paint, carpet & kitchen. Sparkling pool to enjoy.
101 Burns Court, Pleasant Hill $639,000 Poets Corner – 3BD/2.5BA is a MUST SEE 10!~ Beautiful updates & architecture. Enjoy fabulous kitchen & stylish master suite. Newly landscaped corner lot!
MtWashingtonWay.com
MountaireParkway.com
101BurnsCourt.com
1123 Whispering Pines Road, Clayton $799,000 Morgan Territory – Entertain in style at your private creekside retreat at the foot of Mt. Diablo! Custom 4BD/3BA has grand living room w/cathedral ceilings.
$499,000 1824 Princeton Court, Concord Down a Private Lane – Wonderful 3BD/2.5BA offering fabulous kitchen & gardens galore with a quiet creek passing through meandering paths & fruit trees.
1267 Quiet Circle, Concord $569,000 Pine Hollow – Large lot down private road on Clayton border. Pool, spa & patio areas ample for entertaining. 4BD/3BA includes custom Master. RV Parking.
1155 Pine Lane, Clayton $889,000 Marsh Creek – Ranch home on 1 acre with a huge pool to enjoy. 4BD/2.5BA has 2 fireplaces, 3-car garage & laundry room. Call about adjacent horse property!
1123WhisperingPines.com
1824PrincetonCourt.com
1267QuietCircle.com
1155PineLane.com
NEW PRICE
Clayton Resident & Broker Owner
DRE# 01122025
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
New classes in family music program
Upcoming Events
Music Together’s fall semester of classes starts next week. The classes offer an early childhood music and movement program for babies, toddlers and preschoolers along
LAST SUMMER CONCERT SEPT. 11 The final concert in the 2010 series will wrap up with The Hit Waves, a 12-piece band playing classic rock, pop, blues and disco.
with their parents and caregivers. Free of performance pressure, Music Together encourages children to respond spontaneously to their musical environment, share their ideas
and show you what they can do. Clayton classes are held 9:15 and 10:15 a.m. Fridays at St John’s Church, 5555 Clayton Road. New families can preview the first class of the
semester at no charge, space permitting. Call 360-3298 or register online at musictogetherofconcord.com
Have dinner downtown or bring a picnic and a bottle of wine. Set up chairs after 4 p.m. Music starts at 6 p.m. in The Grove. MURDER MYSTERY DINNER SEPT. 19 Local celebs including the Pioneer’s Nicci Shipstead and CC Times writer Pat Craig, Clayton Vice-mayor Dave Shuey, Police Chief Dan Lawrence; Joel and Christy Harris, former owners of Clayton Books, Laura Hoffmeister Concord councilwoman and Clayton city staffer and CVWD president Kathy Hester star in “Final Signing.” No host bar, dinner and raffle. Tickets are $45. Call (925) 9699885 for reservation. All proceeds from this fundraiser go toward CVWC charities and the annual scholarships. Reservation deadline is Fri., Sept 10. OCTOBERFEST OCT. 2-3 Beer, polkas and sunshine. That’s the order of the day for the 7th annual Clayton Oktoberfest. Enjoy live music in the Biergarten by the Internationals, Bavarian dance performances by Nature Friends Schuhplatters, street performers, arts and crafts show, and kids’ carnival. Be on hand for the official tapping of the keg and the traditional parade down Main Street at 12 p.m. on Saturday. Enjoy great German food and drink, authentic Spaten beer and delicious wines. The carnival opens at 6 p.m. on Friday evening, Oct 1. Buy pre-sale carnival ride tickets at a discount – 20 tickets for $10 – by 5 p.m. Friday at La Veranda, Skipolini’s, Ed’s Mudville Grill, Hair by Jim and IMC in downtown Clayton. Oktoberfest hours: Sat. 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun. 11 – 6. For more info, call CBCA at (925) 672-2272 or visit the CBCA website at claytonoktoberfest.com. USED BOOK SALE OCT 15-17 Finish off your summer reading and stock up for the winter at the Clayton Library Used Book Sale. Over 15,000 books to choose from and most books are $1. All proceeds benefit the Clayton Library. Sales begins with a Member’s Only Preview (non-members can join at the door) on Fri. from 4 – 7 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m; Sun. Noon – 4 p.m. Big sale begins Sunday at 2 p.m. Books are half price, or $3 per bag. For more info go to www.claytonlibrary.org.
OSH, from page 1 environment with an easy-tonavigate layout that has won OSH several design awards. Orchard Supply Hardware, headquartered in San Jose, is a leading chain of home improvement and garden retail stores. The chain started in 1931 as a farmer’s cooperative and now boasts 89 locations throughout California. The store offers more than 45,000 items to help customers complete such jobs as painting, landscaping, electrical and plumbing repairs and home decorating. The first 200 customers in line on Saturday will receive $25 gift cards and the first 1,000 customers on Saturday and Sunday will get reusable shopping bags. Customers also will have the opportunity to win a $1,000 OSH shopping spree and other prizes. Orchard Supply Hardware is at 5424 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord. For more information, visit osh.com.
August 20, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Correction: Bottle Caps Recycling The article on recycling bottle caps in the Aug. 20 issue of the Pioneer (“The ‘Lemon Lady’ takes on bottle caps in latest community service effort”) stated that Allied Waste does not recycle bottle caps. This is incorrect. Allied Waste does recycle bottle caps if they are screwed onto the bottle. Loose bottle caps fall through the gaps in the rollers on the conveyor belt.
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
Page 5
Directory of Advertisers Auto Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Children’s Services Kid’s Choice Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-9543 Kidz Planet Daycare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-3012 Music Together of Concord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .946-2990 Churches Clayton Community Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9060
S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Lou Fancher, Nicci Shipstead, Pam Wiesendanger, Mike Dunn We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse
St. Demetrios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-6967 Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700
PIONEER INFO
Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423
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.
CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580
Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212-3339 Handyman Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .639-4209 LHI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-9941
LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.
Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Randy Wenger Randy@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send Church News to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com
Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com
CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: Non-profit: $12 for first 30 words, $.20 each additional word Individual/non-commercial: $18 for first 30 words, $.30 each additional word Commercial: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word
Shield of Armor, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .285-6400 Smith & Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0138 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dentist Children’s Dentristy of Walnut Creek . . . . . . . . . .938-2392 Clayton Valley Orthodontics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6200
Sun
. Sept , y a d
Ludwig, Stephen D.M.D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6200 Renner, Jason D.D.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800
Castle Rock Arabians
All Breed Schooling Show English and Western Judge: Cory Soltau, DVM
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-
19
Classes: $10
early registration $11 day of event High Point Champion Trophy and Ribbons
Rissel, Richard D.M.D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Diablo Theatre Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .943-7469 Willows Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .957-2500 Events Pacific Coast Farmers Market
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9090
Financial and Insurance Services Benton, Mureleen - Ameriprise Financial . . . . . .685-4523 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463
Starting time: 8 a.m. Registration: 7 a.m.
(925) 937-7661 1350 Castle Rock Road, Walnut Creek
www.castlerockarabians.com
Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Moore’s Mission Funeral Home
. . . . . . . . . . . . .682-1100
Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245
SUMMER SPECIALS
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Classified WANTED Pedro players interested in weekly card game. Call Leona: 672-5541.
Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Floors to Go Danville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .820-8700 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Mailing and Shipping The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245
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FOR SALE Estate/Garage Sale. Appliances, household goods, clothing, jewelry. Sept. 11 & 12, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.. 20 Fleming Ct., Clayton. Take Oak St. to Roundhill, left on Roundhill, right on Fleming St., left on Fleming Ct.
SERVICES Girl Gardening Garden care for your roses, perennials and ornamentals. Monthly pruning and fertilizing services. Plant suggestions and installation. If you want more flowers this year, call or email Nicole Hackett 673-1746, or gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.
WANTED Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today (925) 6728787.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Personal Services Frontier Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6900 Main Street Nail Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .933-8606 Pet Services Is Dog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-5811 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Peace of Mind Pet Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9781 Pet Suites Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodies Feed and Country Store . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Klock, Leigh - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Laurence, Pete - RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt -Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Robin’s Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .550-2383 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation
Help Fight Hunger Anna Chan – AKA: The Lemon Lady needs your help! Volunteers are needed to haul donated produce from Farmers' Markets to food pantries throughout the area. Weekly commitment appreciated. Please contact Anna at 672-1988 or AnnaAndAva@gmail.com.
All Out Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4303
Meals on Wheels Drivers 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@att.net
Scary Decorations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8099
Anna’s Attic Volunteers Call 674-9072 or (925) 766-5066.
Senior Services
Hospice of the East Bay Call Volunteer Dept. at (925) 8875678 or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org.
Castle Rock Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .937-7661 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Retail East Bay Work Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-9900 Orchard Supply Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0342 Sport Chalet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .521-7009 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Services, Other Air Cloud Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 x 2 College Planning Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-1704 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989
Clayton Historical Society Museum Call the museum at 672-0240.
Martha Wasley Piano Lessons . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0719
Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Minimum age 13. Minimum commitment is 6 months. Some training provided. Shelvers, tutors. No prior experience necessary! Contact: Arlene @ 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org
Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180
Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
ECCFPD cuts Cal Fire Build-a-Bear gift card contract; rural areas to wait longer for emergency help Mention the Clayton Pioneer & receive a
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Come November, residents in the Marsh Creek and Morgan Territory areas will be waiting a lot longer for help in the event of a house fire, medical emergency or auto accident. A critical contract between East Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ECCFPD) and Cal Fire expired June 30. To help close a $2.9 million deficit, ECCFPD voted not to renew the contract with Cal Fire, saving the district $366,000. Without a contract, the Marsh Creek Sunshine Station will go dark in November when Cal Fire pulls out at the end of the fire season. The station will stay closed until Cal Fire returns for the 2011 fire season in late April or early May. ECCFPD stations in Byron and Discovery Bay were also closed and district staff was cut from 54 to 48. The unincorporated area east of Russelmann Park Road is under the jurisdiction of ECCFPD. For five years, East County has contracted with Cal Fire to staff the Sunshine Station on Marsh Creek Road
from mid-November until the fire season begins. During the fire season, the station is staffed and funded by the state. This will not change, says Cal Fire Battalion Chief Mike Marcucci. However, state funding ends with the fire season and without a Cal Fire contract, Station 11 in Clayton – nearly 6 miles away - will be the closest station. The next closest responses would come from Brentwood or Antioch. The added distance could increase response times from 6-7 minutes to as much as 20 minutes, according to ECCFPD Fire Chief Hugh Henderson. “Potentially, response time could be 40 minutes to the properties further out Marsh Creek and Morgan Territory,” warns Marcucci. Many residents were unaware of the change until they got their homeowners’ insurance bills. “Our premium went through the roof,” says Doreen Snyder, who lives on Morgan Territory Road about four miles from Marsh Creek Road. “When we called the insurance company, they said it was because we were so far from a
fire station.” “It’s a real heartbreaker,” says Marcucci. “No one wants to see the station shut down, but the (East County) board of directors has just decided to send their money elsewhere.” Fire officials are cautioning rural property owners to be sure to clear brush, grass, dead trees and anything else that will burn for at least 100 feet around structures. “That’s the minimum; 250 feet is preferred” says Station 11 engineer Ken Robb. “Have a clear plan of evacuation for livestock, know your neighbors and know who has water trucks. Make sure fire extinguishers are charged and be extra vigilant.” Marcucci hopes to have a call box installed on the gate at the Sunshine Station. “People are used to us being there. If there’s an accident, they will just drive right up to the station. There’s poor cell service out here and we need to have some way for people to get help.” ECCFPD board meetings are the first Monday of the month. The next meeting is 6:30 p.m. Oct. 4, 3231 Main Street in Oakley.
Music, dancing, dining – and beer – on tap at Oktoberfest The popular band The Internationals, Bavarian dancers, a carnival and more than 20 artisan booths are among the highlights at Clayton’s annual Oktoberfest celebration Oct. 2-3. Festival hours are 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. The carnival begins 5-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 1, and continues throughout the weekend. The Internationals will appear Saturday and Sunday in the Biergarten. Bavarian dancers will perform authentic German dances on Saturday, along with street performers on Main Street. The artisan booths will offer a wide array of arts and crafts. As always, a variety of delicious foods will be available in the food court. Past favorites such as Williebird, the Little Hofbrau and D.J.’s Bistro will be on hand, as well as Clayton’s Achim
Schmallhorst selling authentic German sausages and pretzels. Apple strudel and funnel cake are annual favorites. And it would not be Oktoberfest without good German beer and wine. The Clayton Business and Community Association sponsors the event to raise money for the community. Volunteers are still needed to pour beer, wine and hard cider on Sunday. Volunteer sign-ups are available at claytoncbca.org. The CBCA, established in 1984, is a non-profit, all volunteer, community service organization that exists to improve the quality of life in Clayton. Membership is comprised of local citizens, professionals and businesses who work together in community service. Membership is open to all Clayton residents, ConcordClayton boarder residents and business entities and profes-
sionals who serve Clayton residents. You do not have to own a business to be a member. General membership dinner meetings are held on the last business Thursday of the month. Dues are $48 per year. In addition to Oktoberfest, the CBCA produces the Clayton Art & Wine Festival in May and the Clayton Classic Golf Tournament in June, co-sponsors the Concerts in the Grove series, decorates downtown Clayton at Christmas and puts on the annual dessert with Mrs. Claus. In August, CBCA had its inaugural Rib Cook-Off and Membership Drive at the Clayton Club. More than 500 people attended and tasted ribs prepared by 16 entrants and those provided by the Clayton Club. For more information, call 6722272 or visit claytoncbca.org.
September 10, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 7
Horseman’s association marks 75 years of hitting the trail The oldest horse club in California will celebrate threequarters of a century on Sept. 18 with a full day of gymkhana and demonstrations, ending with an auction and dinner dance. Contra Costa Horseman’s Association is the “granddaddy” to all other California horse clubs, including the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association. “We have had a pretty stellar presence through the years,”
YOUNG BARREL RACER NICOLE PEPPER will be on hand for the Contra Costa Horseman’s Association 75th anniversary celebration Sept. 18.
Letters to the Editor Readers weigh in on Mayor’s Character Program Mayor Stratford decided that our community needs a character development program. His committee decided on six virtues that will make us better citizens. The mayor wants to weave these six virtues (Responsibility, Respect, Kindness, SelfDiscipline, Integrity and Courage) into the schools and our homes. The Mayor (is asking) the City Council . . . to implement nine items. The first item is hanging banners every month with one of the six virtues all around town for a week. In an article by the Clayton Pioneer on July 23, the mayor stated that he would also like reminder signs of these six traits displayed in businesses. Mayor Stratford has repeatedly said that our community of 10,000 plus people, already displays good character and I agree with him. In my opinion, residents, patrons, visitors, and workers do not need constant reminders every month for a week on how to act. The banners will have a disciplinarian effect rather than an inspirational one. How many people will pay attention to something they see over and over again? Banners do not teach character. I have talked with several teachers and they all say that school programs that have mentoring between students and adults bring measurable results. Character is taught in the home, grows in the schools and matures with life experiences. - Linda Hudak Clayton As a 20-year resident of Clayton I would like our Mayor and City Council to focus on issues that can benefit all the residents in a tangible and measurable manner. …why is he and the City Council not negotiating with our waste disposal service for composting? How about some programs for seniors? Endeavor Hall seems to be underused – perhaps there could be social events that would be in part sponsored by the City – cost to be borne by participants . . . Hanging banners with printed virtues is not the answer. These would be nothing but an eyesore. If I were a visitor to a city with such banners I would wonder what’s wrong with this city – is that the image that Clayton would want to portray to outsiders. - Kari Galler Clayton
Regarding the criticism of Mayor Hank Stratford’s “Do the Right Thing” character enhancement program, I have to say that I am completely unable to understand how anyone could find it offensive. Who wouldn’t want to live in a community where the citizens are encouraged to be kind? Or respectful? … Certainly the main place where values should be taught is in the home. But since our children spend so much of their time away from home, I think any reinforcement that they can receive is wonderful. I suspect that many nonreligious people would be annoyed at the insinuation that traits such as integrity, self-discipline, and courage are religious characteristics. Such traits are not qualities of a “religious” person; they are qualities of a good person. I love the idea of displaying a banner each month to symbolize the current value … People who do not like the idea of these values being taught have plenty of choices of places to live; as for me and my family, we are thrilled to be living in Clayton and proud of our mayor for doing the right thing. - Kristen Simpkins Clayton Regarding the (stories) on the front page of August 20 issue of the Pioneer, I would like to thank the supporters of our community who are doing the right thing by putting in so much time and effort for the good of all of us. First, in the Mayor's Corner for his fine plan and all those city and school officials, parents, and the students themselves who are implementing the concept of being a good citizen and responsible for their own actions. How can there be an objection to this? Second, to the Parent Faculty Club at CVHS and their Pride Project for all the work that has made our school beautiful. Third, to the young artists who are sharing their talents and being good examples to younger students. Fourth, to those who volunteer to serve on the city council, and fifth to our police and neighbors who watch our streets and try to keep ahead of the mischief makers who spend their time negating the work and effort of so many. Let's all show more appreciation to these helpers. Thank them when you see them. You all know who they are. They're your friends and neighbors. - Barbara Evans Clayton
says club member Hugh Donatello. “When Hawaii and Alaska were admitted to the union, the Contra Costa Horseman’s Drill Team was there.” In recent years, the club has been hit with a one-two punch that has taken a toll on membership, says board member Brian Pepper. Many of the older members have lost contact and current members have been hard hit by the economy. “They can’t afford even a modest
membership fee,” says Pepper. The club is looking to corporate sponsorship and community fundraising to survive. The day-long celebration begins at 9 a.m. at the Don Fernando Pacheco Adobe, 3119 Grant St., Concord, with barrel racing and continues with other gymkhana events, English and Western riding demonstrations, a petting zoo for the kids and ends with a barbecue and dancing to local band Savhanna 8 p.m.-midnight.
“Corporate sponsors have been very generous with auction donations,” says Pepper. Items include a stay at the Hilton Inn and a painting by artist Kathleen Hill valued at $1,000. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under and include dinner and wine tasting during the action. Buy tickets online at cccha.eventbrite.com. For more information on the Contra Costa Horseman’s Association, visit thecccha.com.
Next up for church proposal – Environmental Impact Report TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
A proposed 42,000 sq. ft. church complex for downtown Clayton will require a full Environmental Impact Report (EIR) before the city can begin to debate the merits of the project. The application submitted to the city last spring calls for a 500-seat church and three other buildings that will house retail space and offices. “We want to be an anchor for the community,” Clayton Community Church pastor Shawn Robinson said at the EIR scoping session on Aug. 26. Robinson sees the project as a win-win, bringing needed retail space and customers to the downtown area. Others disagree, not willing
Halloween store’s prices won’t creep you out At Scary Decorations, you’ll find scary stuff at not so scary prices this Halloween. And the Chamber of Horrors will keep you coming back for more. Scary Decorations features affordable prices on a wider assortment of costumes and Halloween decor than most stores. They also provide 110 percent price guarantee for identical products, so you can shop in confidence during these tough economic times. Visit the store for details. Inside the Chamber of Horrors, you’ll find full-sized animatronics Halloween props in action, life-size monster, reaper and ghoul decorations and scores of severed limbs and body parts to create a mesmerizing Halloween scene. Come experience the room and get some great decorating ideas to take your haunted house or graveyard scene to the next level. Fog machines, black lights, creepy CDs and strobe lights also will help you create special effects. Scary Decorations features thousands of men’s, women’s and kid’s costumes and accessories at great prices. The most popular costume brands are featured, including Rubies, Forum, Leg Avenue and Dreamgirl sexy costumes. Funny costumes, couples costumes and your favorite TV or movie character are all at the Scary Decorations store. The Scary Decorations Halloween store will be open through Nov. 8 in the old Hollywood Video location at 4383 Clayton Road in Concord. Call 672-8099 for more information. See our ad on this page for store hours.
to give up limited downtown space and abandon the vision of a vibrant town center bustling with restaurants and shops. However, before the city and the public can debate the pros and cons of church vs. commercial center, there must be a full study done of the potential environmental impact. A preliminary review of the project shows that the potential impacts to public policy and the environment are significant enough to warrant a full EIR. Current zoning calls for ground floor retail use in the town center and does not allow for assembly use. Approval of the project will require amendments to the General Plan, the Town Center Specific Plan and zoning changes to allow for offsite parking.
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The project calls for the demolition of the old Pioneer Inn building now used for church office space. The building may have historical significance and there is a potential for archaeological findings on the site, says community development director David Woltering. The EIR will look at how the project will affect traffic patterns, air and water quality, noise and land use downtown. “The EIR will evaluate only the potential impact of the project on the environment,” Woltering explained at the scoping session. “It will not consider the merits of the project.” After the EIR is complete, probably late fall, the project will go before the Planning Commission – which will review it and recommend
approval or denial to the City Council. Woltering expects the project to reach the City Council in February 2011. There will be several opportunities in the process for the public to weigh in or ask questions on the merits of the project. The city has contracted with an independent consultant for the study and is defining the scope. Citizen input relative to the environmental issues that should be addressed in the study (not to the commercial, social or political merits of the project) can be sent to the city of Clayton by email to dwoltering@ci.clayton.ca.us or by mail to 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, CA 94517. Cutoff date for public comment on the EIR scope is 5 p.m. Sept. 14.
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Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
Music Boosters cocktail party to benefit CVHS band programs Bring your newborn, toddler, or preschooler to one of our fun-filled classes. Explore musical play, child-friendly instruments, songbooks, and CDs that you use at home. And find out how nurturing our research-based music and movement program can be.
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reaching out beyond the core music families to the community-at-large to help with this fundraising effort. Sponsors for the event include the city of Clayton. The evening will feature music from the school’s bands and orchestra, along with food and drinks. The $15 admission
Principals, from page 1
Light Up Recess an Lights & F Specials
To help keep instrumental music programs alive, the Clayton Valley High School Music Boosters will present “A Symphony of Flavors” fundraiser on Friday, Oct. 8. As school funding has dropped sharply, music is at the bottom of the receiving line. The CVHS Music Boosters are
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years; others, like Irene Keenan of Mt. Diablo Elementary School, are new at the helm. Yet they all are using their creativity to forge a vision that goes far beyond just meeting the basic needs of their charges. Although Swanson has almost 2,000 students to keep track of this year – 100 more than last year – and fewer resources to track them with, he remained calm as he described his predicament. “That’s the challenge – everything’s really full,” he said. “I don’t know how we’re going to handle that.” Regardless of the hurdles his staff and faculty are leaping, Swanson remains focused on his students’ future. He is especially proud of the school’s new Engineering Academy. The program, which is largely funded through grants and private donations, will give the 95 freshmen and sophomores a series of classes geared toward a career in engiGARY neering – SWANSON, from the CVHS basics of English and world history to an introduction to engineering design. “Universities that specialize in engineering will actually give them priority in admissions,” Swanson said of graduates of the program. CVHS is also starting the Career Choices program. This strategy gives ninth-graders an opportunity to explore their interests in future careers to help them form a 10-year plan to achieve their goals. “It really kind of ties in everything they’re doing. It gives purpose, meaning and focus to what they’re doing, instead of them going to school and saying, ‘What’s that go to do with anything?’ ” he said.
BOOSTING PARENT PARTNERSHIPS
Highlands Elementary School’s new principal, Vicki Eversole, also recognizes the
challenge of maintaining academic excellence in troubled economic times. She hopes to strengthen the already strong ties between staff, students and their families by working with the Parent Faculty Club to bolster the school’s Website. “Parent partnership is vital to student learning,” she said. “I just want to keep the parents current. We can tell about current events, things that are happening at the school so that VICKI they know EVERSOLE, what’s going HIGHLANDS ELEMENTARY on and they can be part of it.” That’s especially challenging this year at Highlands. With 650 students enrolled, the school is impacted. Eversole is counting on the community that has come through many times before for their students. “They want to work together to ensure all the students have a successful school year,” she said of the groups that are part of the school team. “Everybody does join together and really have the interests of the children at heart. I really appreciate that.” MANAGING RESOURCES Shelley Bain is in her third year as principal of Pine Hollow Middle School. With the group of sixth-graders she started with going into eighth grade and preparing to move to Clayton Valley High School, Bain is focused on ensuring that they – along with the two grades following their footsteps – are ready for whatever comes next. With an eye toward ensuring a smooth transition into high school, Bain has changed Pine SHELLEY BAIN, Hollow’s bell PINE HOLLOW MIDDLE SCHOOL schedule to
includes hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, miniature desserts and one drink; there will be a no-host bar. The event will also feature a raffle with cash prizes. Reservation forms are available at claytonbands.org. Print out a form and mail to CVHS Music Boosters, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord, CA 94521.
CVHS music students will be selling both raffle tickets and admission tickets at Safeway at Clayton Station 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 19.
match Clayton Valley. Meanwhile, the incoming group of sixth-graders at Pine Hollow is especially large, with four teams of 66 students divided into two groups of 33 kids each. The paired groups alternate between classes with the team’s same two teachers through many of their subjects. Bain didn’t seem fazed by the numbers. The school community has stepped up to fill many of the gaps left by budget cutbacks, and staff has shown they are willing to work as hard as necessary to ensure the school’s population is well-served. “I think it’s just a question of resource management,” said Bain. “It’s just a question of doing what needs to be done. The good news is we have such a strong team here where folks are willing to step up and do what needs to be done here. It’s the people that make it all happen.”
Bannister noted. “We try to be supportive and understanding.” She described her challenge this year as “just making sure we have appropriate staffing to fill all the students’ needs.” Diablo View’s PFC has stepped forward, raising donations that, among other areas, cover the costs for the school’s librarian to have one additional day of time on campus. “We’re always focused on how kids are engaged in their learning and reaching their potential,” Bannister said. But she believes it’s also essential to learn to contribute to the group at large. “Being part of the school community is important,” she said.
BUILDING CHARACTER Principal Patti Bannister of Diablo View Middle School is working to ensure her students have more than an education in the three “Rs.” She is working with Clayton Mayor Hank Stratford and the Clayton Business and Community Association to teach her nearly 700 students what it means to have a strong sense of character before they move on to high school and college. She listed several aspects of character the school is trying to impart to the students: respect, responsibility, courage and i n t e g r i t y. “Not only staff, but the whole community can model these PATTI traits,” she BANNISTER, DVMS said of the partnership. Bannister said these are especially important for students and the rest of the community to keep in mind in hard economic times. “There are some students who I think have issues that are especially stressful for them,”
For more information or to help sponsor the event, contact Linda at linminmailbox-music@yahoo.com.
BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION
As she begins her career at Mt. Diablo Elementary, Keenan is pleased at what she’s found so far. “The kids in this community are strong learners,” she said, “and the parents are very supportive here of their children’s education.” She noted that despite the financial challenges the school district is undergoing, IRENE staffers have KEENAN, s t a y e d MDES focused on helping the children. “People work in schools because they think schools are important,” she said. Keenan’s plan is to get everyone involved in the effort to educate children at what she terms “the beginning of their educational career,” from the administrative staff, to the teachers and parents to district administrators. “What’s really important is to develop a good working relationship with everyone, so that there’s a really community feeling about how to help the students by working together,” she said. “Cash and supplies are important,” she said. “But what’s really important is working together.”
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Junior year, here we come SARAH ROSEN TEEN SPEAK I remember my first day as a tiny and terrified freshman like it were yesterday. Just beginning my high school journey, I recall looking up at the seemingly enormous
Mayor, from page 1 started and became routine, everything was OK. I was fortunate to attend our local schools. I don’t remember most of my teachers, but there are a few who stand out. At Mt. Diablo Elementary School, I had Mr. Almond as my fifthgrade teacher. One of the reasons that I remember him is because I felt he really cared about his students – and we learned birdcalls. I still remember one day when I was a little too talkative in class. Mr. Almond raised his voice telling me to quiet down. I felt so bad that he might as well have expelled me. Because I knew that Mr. Almond cared about us, I didn’t want to disappoint him. We are fortunate to have great schools here in Clayton, with teachers and administrators who care. I recognize that our schools and school district are not perfect, but there are many dedicated educators at our local schools. I know many of you contribute greatly to our schools and the education of our students. We have wonderful parent faculty clubs at all three schools. We have many parents who volunteer in the classrooms and help with fundraisers. The level of commitment of many of our parents always impresses me. I hope that individually and as a community we can continue to support our schools and the efforts being made to educate. If you can find the time to volunteer in some way, I’m sure your time would be welcomed. Even though many have felt the squeeze of the economy, I hope that you can still find room within your family budgets to support the fundraisers that occur throughout the year. And for the students, don’t count the months until next summer. Trust me, it doesn’t make them come any sooner. Focus on the tasks at hand, enjoy your years in school and don’t be shy in thanking a good teacher or school administrator for the help they give you.
and hairy juniors and seniors towering over me in the hallways. Fast forward two years later: Though I haven’t grown much and I’m most certainly not hairy, I’m now an upperclassman ready to embark on my junior year. Junior year is the most pivotal year of high school, filled with SATs, AP classes and extracurricular activities. But as my attention wandered from heaps of summer homework and SAT prep, I became distracted by everything from way too many text messages to random shiny objects. It was clear that even the largest of incentives became clouded. My family decided to take a road trip across the country this summer. We toured two colleges while we were on the East Coast so I could get a feel for some campuses outside of the ones
came and went in the blink of an eye. We’re juniors now, and in another couple of blinks, we’ll be seniors. Now is our chance to prove ourselves capable of achieving our dreams, whether that be to get into the college of your choice or to enter the job market. Now is our chance to pump ourselves up for our most important year. Pull the drive from within yourself and become inspired to work hard and do your very best work this year. My mom always said to reach for the stars, and if you don’t hit them, landing on the moon isn’t a bad deal. Class of 2012: We can do this. Good luck this year. Sarah Rosen is a junior at CVHS. You can e-mail her at sarah_rosen@claytonpioneer.com.
ROBBIE PARKER DVMS REPORTER As summer drew to a close and the new school year arrived, it felt like vacation ended all too quickly. Many wish the summer could continue, while others have been looking forward to beginning another year. However, when it comes to starting the school year, most share a common concern. The new school year can be stressful and make one can feel more than anxious. Due to this, Diablo View Middle School held its annual registration days Aug. 18 and 19 to help alleviate fears and ease the adjustment to the new year. Students had their pictures taken, received schedules and met with friends to catch up. After the sixth-grade orientation, many students were quiet and nervous. I understand why
most sixth-graders worry about beginning middle school. For me, that year was a drastic change from elementary school. It was like entering a completely different world. However, once sixth-graders become accustomed to middle school life, they will realize it isn’t so tough. At the same time, I believe being in seventh grade has been the most difficult so far. It’s hard being the student in the middle. You don’t have the support systems like you did in sixth grade, and you don’t have the exciting festivities the eighth-graders can expect. Eighth grade seems to hold more opportunities. Throughout registration, eightgraders were more at ease. I’ve come to realize most eighth-graders are not as worried because they know what to expect. For instance, Monishaa Suresh and Kristin Abele were looking forward to returning. “I feel more excited because I’m very familiar with the school, and I’ve been really looking forward to being in eighth grade,” Monishaa said. Another eighth-grade student, Gaby Bacigalupo, said he was “very excited about school starting” and he wanted to see a
School News UNITED MT. DIABLO ATHLETIC FOUNDATION The group’s second annual 5K Run & Walk to help save sports in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District high schools will be held Sunday, Oct. 10, at
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I’d toured in California when I was younger. I’d been to UC Berkeley dozens of times, but from the moment I stepped onto the campuses of Northwestern University and Georgetown University, I was inspired. Suddenly, I felt an urgency to work harder than I’d ever worked in my entire life. To my fellow juniors: Doesn’t it feel like yesterday we were just following sophomores and juniors around during freshman orientation? We took those awful school ID pictures and learned to duck under the overhangs when the usual huge flock of seagulls flew overhead. Suddenly, it was homecoming week, then winter break, the end of the year finals and the muchanticipated summer vacation. Then sophomore year – no longer freshmen, but not quite upperclassmen. Again, the year
Page 9
lot of his friends again. In this case, seniority seems to bring more confidence. Although these eighth-graders understand the importance of doing well in school, some may not realize that eighth grade carries a lot of responsibility. Academically, there is a great amount of pressure to do well with high school requirements looming. Football, baseball and other sports also rest on your eighth-grade report card. While spending time with friends and participating in all of the eighth-grade activities seems to provide a really fun year, grades and conduct are still the welcome mat to high school. Just like the many other eighth-graders, I am looking forward to enjoying the last year at Diablo View. Although this year holds its challenges, I am confident about it. Having survived the sixth and seventh grades, I know this year I will be fine too. So, with anxious feelings set aside and a determination to do well, I know I will enjoy my last year at DVMS and make it a memorable one. Robbie Parker is a eighthgrader at Diablo View. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com
competitive 5K run as well as a fun run/walk and a kiddie event. Medals and prizes will be awarded for various age groups. The school with the most sign-ups will be presented with a trophy. Food and entertainment will be available. For more information or to register, visit unitedmtdiabloathletics.org.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Say you find yourself driving along a lonely stretch of road, such as Kirker Pass Road, and you spot a baby car seat on the side of the roadway. Would you stop to investigate? If the car seat appeared to have a baby sitting in it, would you render help? During the past year, many folks have received emails described as “National Gang Week.” These emails are presented as warnings and appear to be from law enforcement officials indicating that gangs are using a ruse to entice people out of their cars so they can attack or kill them. In one popular email, the message and warning is couched as follows: “While driving on any road and you see a baby car seat sitting on the side of the road, do not stop! These are gangs targeting people, especially women, to stop their vehicle to help the baby. They make the baby look as if it has blood on itself or on its clothes. When you get out of your vehicle in an attempt to help, the gangs jump out from
DAN LAWRENCE
FROM
THE
CHIEF
behind bushes. They have beaten, raped or killed their victims. This is not just a forward of information, it is within our area. If you do happen to see a car seat, do not stop. Call the police immediately. Please send this to anyone you know and care about.” This particular email is purportedly from the Tennessee Department of Corrections. However, a department official indicates that this is not an official warning from their department and was sent by someone unknown to them.
Other gang initiation tactic warnings in emails have indicated the following: Women are warned not to shop at WalMart, because gangsters could shoot them. In Seattle, gang want-to-be members drive around at night without their head lights waiting for the first Good Samaritan to flash their head lights as a goodwill gesture. The gang car follows the Good Samaritan and forces them over to the side of the road and attacks him or her. Gangsters might bump a car from the rear and when the driver stops to check out the possible damage, he or she is attack or killed. These types of emails are hoaxes. To my knowledge, gangs have not used any of these methods to initiate potential gang members into their gangs. The information contained in these warning emails sent by unknown persons can not be verified and are not supported by any police department nationwide. These emails are not true and
it is a shame that some people will go to such lengths to frighten people with ridiculous hoaxes. Although I don’t want to discourage citizens from becoming Good Samaritans; it is my recommendation that if you are presented with a similar scenario while driving that you carefully evaluate the situation. If the scene doesn’t seem right to you, or you don’t feel comfortable because of the lateness of the hour or the remoteness of the location, just call 911 in order to reach professionals who have the training, the tools and resources to properly respond. If you have questions about this information, call the Clayton police department at 673-7350, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. You may also check snopes.com and click on hoax emails, urban legends, etc. to get additional information.
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
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New government program may help the unemployed I recently lost my job, and I Q have become behind in my mortgage payments by one month so far. Is there any temporary help for me until I can get another job? Unemployment insurance doesn’t cover much. You might be in luck. On Aug. 11, the U.S. Treasury Dept. announced it is providing additional funding to a California program to help homeowners having a hard time making their mortgage payments due to unemployment. The California Housing Finance Agency (CALHFA) will assist these borrowers to make up to six months of mortgage payments. Lenders will be asked to match the government contribution. The program is expected to begin in November. CALHFA estimates that 42,000 unemployed will be helped over a two-year period. To qualify for the program, borrowers must be less than 90 days late on their mortgage, unemployed and eligible for unemployment benefits, live in the home that has the mortgage and meet low or moderate income requirements. You can learn more about these requirements and the program at keepyourhomecalifornia.com.
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I am shopping for a home Q and I am very excited about the low rates. Today I was quoted the lowest rate I have heard yet. I
want to lock it in, in case rates go up. If rates go down more, though, I want the lower rate. Is there a way I can be insured I have gotten the lowest rate? It sounds like you want the best of both worlds. The fact is that loan locks cost money. Many lenders charge an upfront refundable fee when you lock in a rate, and you get the refund if you keep the rate. You should only do it if you are comfortable with the rate. When rates are this low, rolling a rate down less than 0.25 percent has only a marginal effect on the payment. Rate “roll downs” are available, but lenders charge for them. Lenders charge 1/2 to 5/8 of a point for a roll down. Rates rarely drop even 0.25 percent during a 30-day period. Discuss with your lender what they suggest. In the future when rates are up, I think you will be delighted with the rate you received today.
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What is your explanation for Q why rates are so low and what will make them go up? I asked for a simple explanaA tion from Jay Voorhees, an excellent lender in the area. He
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Mini heat wave offers little respite from chilly summer
said, “The velocity of money is very important because it explains why inflation is inevitable, and that is why we are so pleased about today’s super low rates. Velocity is how fast or how many
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times the money in our economy gets spent or ‘turns over.’ The government and the feds have recently pumped trillions of dollars into the economy, but there is currently no inflation. The reason is all of that money is just sitting idly. Banks are not lending, businesses are not investing and consumers are not spending because they are too worried about the economy and government policy. “Once all that money does start getting spent, loaned or circulated, inflation will set in. There is so much money out there, that inflation will likely be bad. Bad inflation translates to sky-high interest rates.” This is why buying now and getting such low fixed rates is such a fantastic opportunity.
WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS Technically, summer isn’t over until Sept. 21, but most people refer to the months of June, July and August as “summer.” Years from now when we look back at the summer of 2010, anyone who spent these three months in the Bay Area will say “What summer?” Last month, I reported that Bay Area temperatures for May, June and July ranked as one of the coldest in the last 40 years. That chilling trend continued for the first three weeks of August. During that time, the official National Weather Service station at the Concord Airport only registered one day when the afternoon temperature exceeded 90 degrees. We were well on our way to a record-breaking cold August.
Finally, on Aug. 23, the sea breeze died down and temperatures hit the upper 90s. The following two days made Clayton feel more like Needles. Afternoon temperatures soared and many local backyard thermometers displayed readings near or above 110 degrees. Fortunately, it cooled down as quickly as it heated up. Within three days, sea breezedriven winds knocked afternoon temperatures back into the 70s. Even with the strong heat wave, the month of August ended up cooler than normal. The summer of 2010 still ranks as one of the coldest in the Bay Area in the last 40 years. As cool as it seemed in Clayton, we should have pity on our friends who live closer to the ocean. At least we get to see the afternoon sun and have relatively warm afternoons. Mark Twain’s famous saying, “The coldest winter I’ve ever spent was a summer in San Francisco” was never truer than this year. Fog, low clouds and howling winds seemed relentless. Afternoon temperatures there failed to get above 72 degrees
See Weather, page 11
September 10, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Canine models geared up for dog-gone fun fashion show Local pups will be modeling the hottest in canine couture at the grand opening of Nellie’s Closet at Rodie’s at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 25. While most dogs are born with a natural “coat,” clothing offers a number of advantages. It protects them from the elements and helps keep their body temperature at a comfortable level. Placing clothes on dogs has been around since the reign of King Arthur in 520 A.D., when dogs were used as a part of the military. The clothing protected them from attacks and from the elements. The Doggie Fashion Show will be an opportunity to see what the well-dressed dog will be wearing this fall. Maybe your pooch needs a makeover – a cute outfit with matching bows for Fifi or snazzy rainboots for Fido. It’s no secret that pets play a big role in many people’s lives, and many dog owners love to dress their dogs up to make them look cute. However, many dogs – from
Randy Wenger/Clayton Pioneer
Nellie Rodenburg looks forward to the opening of “Nellie’s Closet” her new doggie boutique. See Nellie on the runway at the Sept. 25 fashion show and grand opening.
Chihuahuas and mini schnauzers to Great Danes and greyhounds – get chilled in cold climates and truly need clothes to stay warm. Other people purchase raincoats for their dogs to cut down on wet messes. Dog clothes and accessories include booties, socks, sweaters and costumes.
Nellie’s Closet will feature Pug Snuggly’s patented design of clothes that make a fashion statement while providing your pooch with a comfortable outfit. Rodie’s is at 8863 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton. For more information or to participate in the fashion show, call Sarah Rodenburg at 672-4600.
Picabo and Arsenio are ARF’s Adoption Stars
Weather,
Page 11
Extraordinary Care for your Pet
from page 10 almost 80 percent of days this summer. Usually, if temperatures are consistently below normal in one part of the country, they are equally above normal in another. Summer 2010 was no exception. The East Coast of the United States was particularly hard hit by continuous waves of hot weather. New York City recorded the highest summer season average temperature in more than a century. Similar record hot summer temperature records were set from Maine to Virginia. Anyone familiar with heat waves in the east knows that a good dose of humidity accompanies the hot weather. Leaving the comfort of an air conditioned building and going outside in that environment is like stepping into a sauna. Now people are wondering if the cool summer means a cool winter as well. There doesn’t seem to be a strong correlation between summer and winter temperature trends, which is a fancy way of saying “We don’t know.” We are, however, transitioning out of an El Nino pattern and into La Nina. Seasonal La Nina temperature signals are weak for the West Coast. However, a precipitation pattern that features higher than normal rainfall in the northern one-third of California and drier than normal in the southern one-third of California is favored during La Nina events. For the Bay Area, that forecast is another fancy way of saying “We don’t know.” We do know that this was an abnormally cool summer for the Bay Area. Unless you spent a lot of time along the central California coast this summer, our abnormal weather was pretty easy to deal with when compared with the East Coast. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
Clayton Sports CV junior drives for world golf title in November JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Domenic Mazza has played baseball and golf for nearly 10 years but still has no idea which is his favorite sport. In fact, he hasn’t decided for his junior year if he’ll play on golf (like he did as a freshman) or baseball (as he did last spring) at Clayton Valley High School. One thing is certain. For the next two months, he’ll be spending a lot of time on the golf driving range getting ready to compete as likely the youngest player in the RE/MAX World Long Drive Championships in Mesquite, Nev., starting Nov. 2. Mazza received All-DVAL golf honors as a freshman. In line with his dual-sport outlook, Mazza finished the 2009-’10 school year with the Eagle baseball team in the North Coast Section playoffs and then jumped into a busy summer sports schedule. On the diamond, he was a member of the Clayton Valley summer league team, the Oaks. He also was competing in a number of junior golf tournaments around the Bay Area and Northern California through the Junior Golf Association program at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Soon after turning 16 on July 29, Mazza participated in the Concord City Junior Golf tournament and came away with the championship on Aug. 4. During the tournament, Concord High golf coach Craig
Mike Dunn/Clayton Pioneer
CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH JUNIOR DOMENIC MAZZA will be aiming for a world title in early November when he figures to be the youngest of 144 golfers at the RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship in Mesquite, Nev.
Kilcoyne chatted with Steve Mazza, Domenic’s dad and an acquaintance from years gone by when Steve and brother Bob Mazza and current Diablo Creek golf pro Joe Fernandez were “range boys” at Diablo Creek. Noting Domenic’s dis-
tance off the tee, Kilcoyne suggested they look into entering him in a long drive competition. TAKING A DRIVE TO PLEASANTON Timing being everything, the Region 8 qualifier of the
Prep writers give little love to inexperienced CV football team JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
It’s a tradition for sports writers to make pre-season predictions on high school football results. So after looking at the youngest roster head coach Herc Pardi has had in 15 seasons at Clayton Valley, local scribes have predicted a lowerdivision finish for the Eagles in the Diablo Valley Athletic League this fall. With only three starters returning, Clayton Valley has been tabbed for fourth place out of six schools by the Contra
Costa Times and fifth by the new SportsStars magazine. This despite Clayton Valley reaching the NCS playoffs six of the past seven seasons (they missed out in 2007) and twice making the North Coast Section championship game (2003 and 2008). Safety Mark Martinez, defensive lineman Rudy Ellison and tight end Brenden Eddy are the trio of experienced starters who will need to help Pardi’s troops confound the experts and gain another NCS playoff berth. The 6-4, 260-pound Ellison is a returning second team All-
DVAL player and Division 1 college prospect. However, Pardi reports he is slated to miss the first two games with a knee injury. Sophomore transfer Joe Protheroe will be a safety, wide receiver and running back once he recovers from a broken clavicle. They hope to have Protheroe, a freshman starter at Mt. Diablo, back for the start of league play at Concord High on Oct. 15. Experience aside, Pardi calls this “one of the hardest
See Football, page 14
RE/MAX World Championship powered by Dick’s Sporting Goods was four days later at the Pleasanton Golf Center. The World Championships began in 1975 and now draws 10,000 entries from more than 125 countries, with qualifying held at more than 300 sites around the globe. At the Pleasanton driving range, Mazza drove 366 yards to finish third, within seven yards of the first-place drive. This qualified him for the Region 8 Championships on Aug. 21 at the Mesquite Driving Grid, which is the site of the World Finals each year. Region 8 includes all of California and Nevada and is considered the toughest of the 10 regions in the United States to qualify from. When Mazza went to Mesquite, he faced a field of 80 long drivers competing for eight spots in the World Finals. Included in the field were the No. 2 ranked long drivers from the past two years (the champions from the past five Worlds automatically qualify for the finals). “I was shaking a little when I first started, but I got more comfortable,” he recalls about this first exposure to regionals.
The family had arrived a day early and made a visit to the Mesquite Sports and Event Complex to see the driving grid. Regionals began early and by 7:30 a.m., Mazza was on the tee. In long drive competition, each golfer gets six drives, which they must take within two minutes and 45 seconds. The grid is 60 yards wide. His best drive in round one was 372. In round two he drove 389, the longest drive in the competition at that point. He moved into the fifth round, where his 368-yard drive forced him into the loser’s bracket. GETTING BACK IN THE HUNT Showing nerves of steel, the Concord golfer stepped up his game with a 432-yard drive in round eight as he put five of his six shots in the 400-plus yard range. He came back with a 406yard mark in round nine, six yards more than second place. This placed Mazza into an exciting six-man shootout with the final three places in the World Finals at stake. For the round 10 shootout at 3 p.m., they split the six golfers into two groups of three – with Mazza competing in the second flight. That proved an advantage as the
second group knew that 420 yards was the best mark by a golfer in the first group. When Mazza blasted a drive 436 yards, he guaranteed his place in the World finals even though he was second to a record 454-yard drive which won the shootout. Mazza’s 436yard drive was the second longest on record there. His dad reports the conditions were excellent, with the golfers aiming downwind. “It took about three minutes before we knew the results. I was real happy and excited when they posted the distance,” Domenic Mazza said. During this incredible run, Mazza has been competing against golfers of all ages in the open division. In Mesquite, Steve Mazza was told “You have no idea what your son just did” by a veteran of more than 15 World Long Drive meets. Mazza carries a 2.3 Northern California Golf Association handicap and uses a 46-inch TaylorMade R9 driver. For the Mesquite competition, he switched to a 50-inch Mercury Savage driver with a Claymore shaft. This club is designed for long drive competitions and is illegal for regular golf. The length allows Mazza to get more club head speed. LEARNING LIFE SKILLS Mazza began playing golf with the First Tee of Contra Costa at Diablo Creek, where his dad also cut his golfing teeth. He’s been a member of the Junior Golf Association there ever since. “The life skills this program provides have helped Domenic learn to be courteous, respectful and honest,” mom Lorrie says of First Tee. He also has a personal coach, Dave DeLong, a PGA pro out of Boundary Oak in Walnut Creek. As a freshman at Clayton Valley, Domenic earned firstteam All-DVAL golf recognition and was able to play junior varsity baseball because of few scheduling conflicts. For his sophomore year, he decided that if he made the varsity baseball team he’d concentrate on the diamond. The 6-0, 170-pounder made the Eagles squad as a lefthanded pitcher with an 85 mph fastball. In a unique twist, the southpaw bats and golfs righthanded. Rather than seeing his golf suffer by spending time with
See Mazza, page 14
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Clayton Sports Athlete Spotlight Name: Sarah Hamilton Age: 8 Sport: Swimming Team: Dana Hills Swim Team It was an incredible recreation swim summer for Sarah. In just her second season with Dana Hills she was high-point swimmer at Devil Mountain Pentathlon, Woodlands Invitational, Contra Costa Swim League Championships, Concord City Championships and finally at the 50th anniversary County Swim Championships, where she won the freestyle and backstroke. (Her 15-18 teammates Derek Anderson and Bekah Padilla also won county highpoint honors.) She broke six DHST
Help the Pioneer cover the local sports scene. Send competition results, story ideas, announcements, sports shorts, etc. to sports@claytonpioneer.com. Please attach a high-resolution photo whenever available.
records including both 7-8 relay marks with teammates Logan Sherman, Ali Bamberger and Ryanne Boland. At the CCSL meet she broke two long-standing league and pool records. Her Otters freestyle relay team broke the record set by Walnut Country 21 years ago at City Meet and also took first at the County Championships. The St. Agnes School fourth grader lives in Crystyl Ranch. Do you know a young athlete that should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, or remarkable improvement, or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTION OCT. 30 The second Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner will be Oct. 30 at Centre Concord, honoring athletes, coaches, teams and community leaders from the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s. For the list of inductees and to buy tickets go to their website, mdusd.k12.ca.us/claytonvalley. For more information contact Dee Billeter at (925) 672-6379.
CLAYTON VALLEY PONY BASEBALL TRYOUTS IN OCTOBER Tryouts for the Clayton Valley Pony baseball program will be held Oct. 2, 3 and 10 at Clayton Valley High School. Players ages 1214 are invited to the tryouts at 1:30 p.m. each day. Clayton Valley Pony teams compete in the 680/Diablo Interlock League. For more information contact Greg Redmond by email claytonpony@comcast.net or visit claytonvalleypony.com.
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Photo courtesy of Diablo FC
THE LOCAL UNDER 11 GIRLS DIABLO FC 99 BLUE won the Central Marin Premier Challenge in late August. The team includes, front row left, Rajneet Sahota, Ashley McClearnen, Santana Merryfield, Amanda Zodikoff, Kelly Livingston, Sophia Brown; back row, coach Jenny Haney, Jenna Betti, Nicole Lanfranchi, Maaeva Dwiggins, Daniela Suarez, Caroline Chouinard, coach Jack Boeger and Rebecca Phelan.
aka Firepower, won the team’s first-ever tournament at the Tiburon/Mill Valley Fall Kickoff with a 1-0 victory over Tiburon Sharks in the finale. Diablo FC 97 Blue did not allow a goal in four games. The team was formed in the spring of 2009 at the bronze level. This season, they are playing in silver division featuring an aggressive attack and rock solid defense. “The team is playing really well together and the strength of the team is each player’s commitment to training and each other as teammates,” says coach Mark Hines. Coach Natalie Hull’s Diablo FC 93 Blue U17 girls have made
two trips down south and came away with championship and runner-up finishes. In the finals of the Santa Barbara SC Summer Classic, the girls edged Conejo Valley Red Bull 3-2. In the finale of the 21st annual North vs. South Tournament in San Luis Obispo, Diablo FC 93 Blue took second in the roundrobin format. BACK-TO-BACK WINS In the U10 age group, coach Dean Weisz’ Diablo FC 00 girls have racked up some impressive results. At the Turlock Midsummer Classic, they defeated Ajax Athens 01 of Modesto 2-1 in the championship game and came back a
week later with a 3-2 victory over Mustang Blast to capture the San Ramon Valley Cup crown. In late August, the U10 team played up an age group to U11 in the club’s own Diablo FC Summer Challenge and took home the U11 Valley division title 2-0 over Mustang Wildcats. Coach Lewis Woodward’s Diablo FC 97 girls were the lowest seed at the Mustang Stampede in Danville but battled through five games in three days before losing in the last minute of overtime to Placer Prestige 98 Gold 2-1 in the U13 championship game.
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See Soccer, page 14
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FALL BASKETBALL LEAGUE AT CLAYTON COMMUNITY GYM All Out Sports is offering a seven-week basketball league for boys and girls age 4-14 starting Sept. 18 at the Clayton Community Gym. For more information or to register, visit alloutsportsleagueclayton.com.
5K RUN BENEFITING HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS RETURNS OCT. 10 The second annual 5K Run at Newhall Park in Concord to benefit sports at the six high schools in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District is set for Sunday, Oct. 10. For sponsorship information or to sign up to run or walk visit unitedmtdiabloathletics.org.
JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
BLANKING THE COMPETITION Diablo FC 97 Blue U13 girls,
Sports Shorts
INAUGURAL P2C CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT SEPT. 27 The inaugural P2C Charity Golf Tournament is Monday, Sept. 27, at Oakhurst Country Club. The tournament will use a unique format where all 18 holes at Oakhurst will be set up as Par 3’s. Proceeds will benefit the local community. The committee is looking for golfers, sponsors and volunteers. For more information visit http://p2cfoundation.org/friends.aspx.
Diablo FC teams gobble up tournament hardware statewide Diablo Futbol Club has been carrying the mantle as the area’s leading competitive youth soccer program up and down California this summer, picking up tournament championships and finalist medals in San Diego, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Mill Valley, Danville, Santa Clara, Pleasanton, Turlock, San Ramon, Novato, Concord and San Rafael. Girls and boys teams in a variety of age groups for Diablo FC have been sharing the spoils. From the under 10 Diablo FC 00 girls who have claimed three titles in quick succession to the Diablo FC 92 Blue boys winning the under 19 division at the 24th annual Novato Classic, a number of teams from the competitive club excelled this summer. Nicole Lanfranchi of Clayton scored the winning goal when Diablo FC 99 Blue won the Central Marin Premier Challenge U11 girls championship game in San Rafael against the fast and physical Mill Valley Rockets. Goalie Amanda Zodikoff of Concord and her defense allowed only one goal in four games for coach Jack Boeger’s team, which goes by the nickname Azzurri. Boeger credited “teamwork, determination and spirit” by the Azzurri roster. The week before, Diablo FC 99 Blue was defeated by Sonoma County Alliance 00 3-1 in the U11 Mountain Division championship game of the Diablo FC Summer Challenge in Concord.
Page 13
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Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
Clayton Sports BMXers take to the sky at Summer Jam MIKE DUNN Special to the Pioneer
Amateur and professional riders bunny-hopped, soared overhead and slid on rails at the End of Summer Jam at Clayton Bikes on Aug. 29. A couple of hundred bicycle motocross enthusiasts crowded Clayton Bikes’ back parking lot
JOSHUA WILLIAMS of Antioch, 2½, waits his turn to ride down the ramp.
for the third BMX event over the past year. The event drew riders from as far away as Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The age of participants raged from Joshua Williams of Antioch, a 2½-year-old BMX rider-intraining, to fortysomethings who were starting to show their age. “What we are trying to do is promote our store and give back to the BMX community,” said Clayton Bikes manager John Kramer. “We really wanted to do something for the kids. There are not a lot of places to ride around here. It’s nice to do something for them and we appreciate them.” According to Kramer, BMX is for all ages. “It’s not just kids these days – there are some in their late 20s and 30s who are passionate about this part of the industry. This is for everybody,” he noted. Employee James “Trail Gypsy” Brom was among the
Soccer, from page 13 TOURNAMENT MEMORIES The girls haven’t been grab-
bing all the laurels for Diablo FC. The U18 Diablo FC 92 Blue
Photos by Mike Dunn/Clayton Pioneer
NICK NOBLE OF RODEO passes overhead at the End of Summer Jam at Clayton Bikes.
riders at the event. “I’ve been to a lot of different contests, so I’ve seen how it’s all done everywhere. I’ve been helping these
guys organize it to get it more like every other contest is,” said Brom, who’s been riding for about 15 years.
boys coached by Contra Costa Times high school coach of the year Rory Gentry won the U19 flight at the Novato Classic. Highlighting the tournament
were a hat-trick scored by Fernando Vesga and two shutouts against Bay Oaks 92 Lobos and a penalty kick save by goalkeeper Gavin Schroder to seal the win against host team U19 Novato Elite for the title. Maynor Guerra, Stefan Riedel, Sean Salem, Lucas Arriaga and Ian Lyon also scored goals as the team won three after drawing their tourney opener. Derricke Brown and his Diablo FC 96 boys were U14 winners of the three-day Ballistic United Summer Classic in Pleasanton. The team won its semi-final against DeAnza Titans 96 1-0 and took the finale by an identical score over Placer United Prestige 97. The team allowed only one goal in five games. These showings come on the heels of the impressive Diablo FC 94 U16 boys title at the San Diego Surf Cup XXX, U15 Diablo FC 95 boys taking a repeat Santa Clara Sporting championship and three Diablo FC teams winning first-place awards and a trio of Diablo FC teams finishing second at the eighth annual Diablo FC Summer Classic.
Photo courtesy of Diablo FC
THE UNDER 13 TEAM DIABLO FC 97 GIRLS won their first-ever tournament at the end of August when they captured the Tiburon/Mill Valley Fall Kickoff Tournament in Mill Valley. The team includes, front row from left, Devanne Zalewski, Kylie Diaz; second row, Nikki Apana, Gianna Bellatto, Deana Vander Meulen, Kayla Porche, Charlotte Burcher, Brieanna Boyd; third row, Brooklyn Aguilar, Kendall Christiansen, Alison Robinett, Katelyn Penner, Jordan Howard, Janine Bandayrel, Libby Thomas, Katie Kern; back, coaches Don Thomas, Patrick Penner and Mark Hines.
Mazza, from page 12 baseball, Mazza has noticed increased strength, which necessitated him recently getting his clubs refitted. The junior is undecided about what sport to
pursue in college, but he knows he wants to attend Stanford. He’s doing well in the classroom with all As and Bs during his first two years.
The RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship, which runs Oct. 27-Nov. 5, features 144 contestants from 47 countries. It is the biggest event for the Long Drive Association and is telecast during the Christmas holidays on ESPN. There is $450,000 in prize money for the
(925) 348-1704 www.CollegeFundsNow.com
finals, but Mazza will not be accepting any of it because he would lose his amateur golfing status. So far, Mazza says, “I haven’t surprised myself.” With that attitude and swing, perhaps we’ll be watching our local star on ESPN in December.
Football, from page 12 working, unselfish teams we’ve had at Clayton Valley.” He is counting on senior linemen Nick Mazza and Kevin Jo. “They will have a great season and are a coach’s dream as well as being very good football players.” Other returning lettermen are seniors Jeff Dominguez (linebacker/fullback), Stuart Bredell (tight end/linebacker) and lineman Gulien Rhodes. He calls junior quarterback Mateo Gomez “solid.” Varsity newcomer sophomore Jesse Medrano (linebacker/running back) was co-MVP of the DVAL frosh league champion Clayton Valley squad with teammate Andrew Trimble, who is the starting JV quarterback and linebacker at CVHS this fall. Making their varsity debuts are Garrett Whisten, Brodrick Villamor, Josh Smith, Harris Montanez, Edgar Picazo, Jon McIntyre, Tim McDevitt, Brian Gentry and Anthony Ascarrunz. Senior Kunle Fashola (All-DVAL first team basketball at 6-3, 200 pounds) is back on the football team as a safety and wide receiver. Others who figure to con-
tribute are Frankie Ferrante, Christian Kaplan (All-DVAL second team baseball), Andrew Segura and Brian Peterson, who have impressed coaches with their ability. Junior transfers Keli’i Dominguez (wide receiver and cornerback from Bethel High in Vallejo) and Kaleb Chelette, a cornerback and running back from De La Salle, are also termed “solid.” Line coach Paul Reynaud and running backs coach Les Garaventa, both CVHS alumni, agree that “with continued hard work and improved practice tempo and accountability,” the Eagles will improve into a contending DVAL and NCS playoffbound club. Clayton began its non-league season last week losing to Liberty and now faces three straight games away from Gonsalves Stadium starting this Friday at Antioch. The final non-league game is Oct. 8 at home vs. North Salinas before the DVAL campaign kicks off at Concord in the middle of next month. “The key is how fast we’ll develop,” Pardi noted.
Gold highlights Ipsen’s 3-medal haul at World Junior Diving JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton diving phenom Kristian Ipsen continued his move up the international ladder by winning the 1-meter springboard at the 18th FINA World Junior Diving Championships last weekend in Tucson. The gold medal completed Ipsen’s collection after earlier in the meet winning silver in 3-meter synchronized and bronze in 3-meter springboard. Four years ago, competing in the FINA World Junior meet, Ipsen earned gold in the B division (younger age group) 1meter. In the 2008 World Juniors he finished fifth in 1meter and sixth in 3-meter A Division. This was his last chance to perform in the World Junior meet before aging out (he turns 18 in October) and Ipsen made the most of it. His win in the one-meter was by the largest victory margin in any of the A division events for boys or girls. He led the field in the 1meter preliminaries, but dropped to third after missing his front 3 ½ tuck in the
second round of the finals. “I was a little nervous after I missed my second dive pretty badly, but I knew I still had my reverse and reverse twister and I knew I could do those dives well,” Ipsen said. He retook the top position upon scoring 78.40 points in the fourth round. He solidified the win by earning 9s from five of the seven judges in the last round. “I’m happy. This is a nice way to close out my last Junior Worlds,” Ipsen said. Ipsen had teamed with Michael Hixon of Massachusetts to finish second to a Chinese tandem in the synchronized 3-meter. The Americans were in eighth place after the third of five rounds before coming back with the highest scores of any team in the fourth and fifth rounds. Ipsen explained, “That last dive really solidified our spot and I’m pleased with our fourth dive because that’s been our Achilles heel.” Ipsen bounced back from a disappointing sixth-place showing in the 3-meter prelims to come up to third for another junior world medal.
September 10, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Without a backup plan, data loss could cost a bundle
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK It’s crucial to have a backup copy of important computer files in case your computer crashes and causes data loss. Without a backup, it will cost a bundle to retrieve data after a crash. Family or business photos are priceless, and music libraries are expensive and time-consuming to create. In many cases, documents must be saved for years for the
IRS and for government HIPPA requirements. So save time, money and anguish by investing 10 minutes and make a backup plan. Backups range from simple to complex, internal, external, network, cloud or FTP. The simple backup plan is an inexpensive copy and paste, or drag and drop method. Complex backups involve expensive software to backup files that may be in use by a person, database or SQL program. Backups can be saved internally to your local drive or spare drive, to an external enclosure, onto a network computer, in the Internet cloud (a computer somewhere in the world that allows you access) or to a specific computer that hosts your backup using file transfer protocol (FTP).
FIGHTING THE ODDS Every PC and Mac will crash at some point. It’s just a matter of time before parts wear, electronic parts burn out or you catch a nasty virus and all your data is gone. On average, a computer will run about two years before a major crash. About a third of the crashes are so fatal that no data can be recovered. Another third require extensive data recovery methods, and the remainder need minor recovery efforts. All efforts cost money that could be avoided by a good backup plan. For the simplest plan, use a USB flash device and plug it into a USB port on your computer. Insert the USB device into an open port on your computer or hub. Open the My Computer icon and look for the external device letter that it is assigned (like, F:\ removable
device). Double click to open the USB device. Find the original file or files you want to backup in the main, local device. Then right click the original file, in the drop-down menu click copy, right click in the open USB device and click paste in the drop down menu. Alternatively, left click the original, hold the button and drag it to the open USB device and let go the click button to drop into the USB flash drive. USB flash devices are 1 to 64GB in size, therefore, it is good for small groups of files, photos or music. A simple but larger option is a USB external enclosure. It works about the same as the flash device, but it is larger. Sizes range from 250GB to 2TB (TB = terabyte = 1,000 GB). External enclosures can use simple software to automate the backup process.
Plan now for college funding options SEAN CONNORS Special to the Pioneer
I find that parents of college-bound children are morethan willing to do anything they can to get the biggest possible piece of the college funding pie. After all, college is one of the largest expenses any family faces in their lifetime. However, parents often are in a quandary because they don’t know how to get started, when to take action, and what to do next. Start this month and take the next steps in October. For a strategy for the rest of the year visit CollegeFundsNow.com. This month: Have your child request applications to at least six to eight colleges or universities. The more applications you send in, the more options you will have in college funding. Get an estimate of your
SEAN CONNORS
“Expected Family Contribution.” Also known as EFC, this is the minimum amount of money you will be expected to pay out of pocket for one school year at any college or university. This is big! Start doing some income
and asset planning, setting up your finances in the most favorable way legally allowable. It’s best to do this before you fill out the financial aid forms later in the year. This type of planning can significantly impact your eligibility for funds when your child starts college next year. If you need help estimating your EFC or with your income and asset planning, feel free to come to one of our workshops in the area.
ACT to try to increase his or her score. You will get a much better college funding package (with more grants and fewer loans) if your child is in the top 10-15 percent of a college’s incoming freshman class. Search for college scholarships. However, don’t expect to get all the money you need from these. High school sophomores & juniors: Take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT).
Next month: It’s time for your child to start completing and sending in college applications. Set up a check-off chart to help you keep track of all the applications and other forms that you and your child will need to complete in the coming months. The chart should include significant deadlines. Have your child retake the SAT, SAT II’s /“Subject Tests” or the
For more information, attend a Free College Planning Seminar by visiting www.CollegeFundsNow.com or calling (925) 348-1704. The workshop will be taught by Sean Connors, alumni from Clayton Valley High School. Sean conducts periodical workshops on “Paying For College Without Going Broke” and “Unlocking The Truth About College Athletic Recruiting.”
With a network backup, the extra copies are stored on another computer in your network or, perhaps, an external device on the network. The backup software is typically more complex and more expensive. Scrimp here and problems will persist. Microsoft Windows 7 offers a good backup solution. Although backing up over a network will slow the network as more bandwidth is used for the backup traffic, this is an excellent backup plan. GOING SKY HIGH For an Internet backup, looks for services like Mosy, Carbonite, Back2Zip and Vembu that use software installed on your computer to send your backup data to the Internet cloud. The backup is scheduled to start when you turn on your computer each day. The software finds and backs up files in your “backup set” and copies them over the Internet to a data storage center. Cloud backup services like these require monthly payments. While the backups are performed, your computer stays busy with the task and you are burdened with slower Internet
speed. Small backup sets are quick, but larger ones can keep your computer busy for hours. FTP or managed services move data over Internet or private (VPN) tunnels and require specialized software that will backup files even if the file is open and being used by another person on the network. Backing up an open file takes special talent, therefore, the software and the services don’t come cheap. Services like EDS, IBM, Amazon and others are strictly for the pros. However, FTP and managed backup services are usually quite fast for the amount of data they are tasked to do. It’s your choice whether to opt for a simple backup with a USB flash memory device or go all the way to managed services. You can do it yourself or have a program or management team do it for you. If you need advice about your situation, contact a BEAR licensed computer professional. Will Claney is the CEO of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-6729989.
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Church News CONCORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The United Methodist Women will hold a general meeting at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 15. The program will features “Quilts – Work of Art” presented by Joy Plumley, Sue Falkowiski and Lynn Fisher. Lunch provided by Abigail Circle. The group meets in Sherrill-Close Hall at the church, 1645 West St. To RSVP, call Diane Rogers at 686-5513.
ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC CHURCH The church will sponsor a Healing Hearts Workshop 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5-Nov. 16. The six-week program provides a safe place to express grief and begin healing after the loss of a loved one. The loss may have been recent or a long time ago. The church is at 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. To register or for more information, call 672-5800.
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Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer 30 year Clayton residents
CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB Clayton Pioneer food columnist Linda Wyner will speak at the Tuesday, Sept. 28, meeting. Her topic is “Enjoying September Produce.” Wyner studied food anthropology in college but went on to other endeavors after some time in the field. Several years ago, she was selected as food columnist for the Pioneer and continues to write about food history and trivia. In 2006, she published “Food for Thought,” a compilation of edited columns, and founded Pans on Chef Linda Wyner will speak Fire, a kitchen store and cooking at the Clayton Valley school in Pleasanton. Woman’s Club on Sept. 28. The club meets at 9:30 a.m. for coffee with a 10 a.m. meeting at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1090 Alberta Way, Concord. For more information, call Shirley at 6721163.
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Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. SEPT. 15 FOR THE SEPT. 24 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
CLAYTON EVENTS Saturdays through October Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, Diablo Street between Main and Center, downtown Clayton. No market Oct. 2. pcfma.com or 800-9493276.
Sept. 11 Concerts in the Grove Hit Waves is a 12-piece, high-energy dance band. 6-8:30 p.m., Grove Park, downtown Clayton.
Sept. 15 Community Emergency Response Team Training
Center Repertory. 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $36-$42. centerrep.org or 943-SHOW.
7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
Oct. 28-Nov. 14 “Becoming Britney” A caustic, but loving PG-13 fable that chronicles the rise, the dip and the salvation of a foolhardy celebrity phenom. Presented by Center Repertory. 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. centerrep.org or 943-SHOW.
Sept. 18 Motorcycle Run
Clayton Business and Community Association
Through Sept. 15 Classic Car Exhibit
Sept. 19 Murder Mystery Dinner
Featuring music, dancers, artisan booths, food and a carnival. Sponsored by the Clayton Community and Business Association. Carnival opens 5-10 p.m. Oct. 1 and continues through the weekend. Festival hours 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Oct. 2 and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 3. 672-2272 or claytoncbca.org.
Oct. 9 “Whispers from the Past” A history workshop on Clayton’s past for third- to six-graders. 2-4 p.m., Clayton Historical Society and Museum, 6101 Main St. Registration begins at 1:45 p.m. Free but space is limited. 672-0240.
EVENTS/ENTERTAINMENT Sept. 11 Extended Roots Irish, old-time music and more. 7:30 p.m., Walnut Avenue United Methodist Church, 260 Walnut Ave., Walnut Creek. $10, or $25 per family. Free childcare. walnutavenueumc.org or extendedroots.com.
Through Sept. 16 Music and Market Series
Sponsored by the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club. 4:30 p.m., Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. $45, includes dinner and the murder mystery with local celebrities. claytonvalleywomans-club.org or 969-9885.
Sept. 20 Friends of Camp Concord Golf Tournament Hosted by Dan Ashley at Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. friendsofcamp.com.
Sept. 24 Fall Plant Sale Sponsored by the Clayton Valley Garden Club. 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Endeavor Hall parking lot, Center and Diablo streets, Clayton. Contact Neal at 672-2624 or claytonvalleygardenclub.org.
Donations benefit the Monument Crisis Center. Drop off 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mondays, Mt. Diablo Peace Center, 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. Or at the Crisis Center 9 a.m.-noon and 1:30-4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays, 2350 Monument Blvd., Suite B, Concord. Contact Mary at 9337850 or maryalice@mtdpc.org.
Oct. 9 Light the Night Walk
Through Oct. 2 “Annie” Diablo Theatre Company presents the adventures of the little redheaded girl. 601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17-$48. 943-7469 or lesherartscenter.org.
Oct. 9 Castle Rock Arabians Clinic, Party and Sale Learn about communicating with your horse and developing harmony between human and horse. For reservations and directions, call Nancy at 937-7661.
Through Oct. 10 “She Loves Me” Considered the most charming and romantic musical ever. Center Repertory Company, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. $19-$45. Centerrep.org or 943-SHOW.
Oct. 22-Nov. 20 “Dracula” Experience the gothic classic as you’ve never seen it, presented by
Meets 7-9 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Contact Nancy at 673-3522 or claytonvalleygardenclub.org.
Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. for coffee, 10 a.m. meetings, second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1090 Alberta Way, Concord. Call Shirley at 672.1163 or claytonvalleywomansclub.org.
Clutch Busters Square Dance Club Meets 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Willow Pass Community Center Hall, 2748 East Olivera Road, Concord. Contact Karen at 686-3774.
Meets 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Willow Pass Community Center, 2748 East Olivera Road, Concord. Call Jennie at 672-9676 or angelfire.com/id/stompers.
Meets 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck’s, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. Contact Mike at 639-1987 or uschess.org.
Contra Costa Mineral and Gem Society Meets 7:30 p.m. second Monday of the month, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. 779-0698 or ccmgs.org.
Creekside Artists Guild
Oct. 8 “A Symphony of Flavors”
Sept. 17-19 Contra Costa Greek Food and Wine Festival
A wacky musical satire from the Willows Theatre Company. Campbell Theatre, 626 Ward St., Martinez. $22-$30. willowstheatre.org or 798-1300.
Clayton Valley Garden Club
Contra Costa Chess Club
Through Sept. 30 Collection of Locally Grown Produce
Concerts 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. ci.concord.ca.us or 671-3464.
Through Sept. 19 “Six Women with Brain Death, or Expiring Minds Want to Know”
Meets 6:30 p.m. last Thursday of the month, except holidays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Call Sue at 672-2272.
Concord Stompers Square Dance Club
Sponsored by the Clayton Valley High School Music Boosters. Featuring music from the school’s bands and orchestra, plus hors d’oeuvres, desserts and a drink, plus a no-host bar. $15. Reservation forms available at claytonbands.org.
Authentic Greek food and pastries, Greek wine tasting, live Greek music and dancing. 5-11 p.m. Friday, noon-11 p.m. Saturday and noon-8 p.m. Sunday, St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 1955 Kirker Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 for seniors 55+. Children under 12 free. All are free 5-6 p.m. Friday. 676-6967 or ccgreekfest.com.
7:30 p.m., 1936 Carlotta Dr., Concord. mdusd.org.
CLUBS
A six-week, 20-hour CERT program, 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Free. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. claytoncert.org or 6737355.
Oct. 1-3 Oktoberfest
Sept. 22 Mt. Diablo Unified School District
FUNDRAISERS Sponsored by the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms. 8:30 a.m. registration; ride begins at 10 a.m., McGuire Devil Mountain Harley Davidson, 2240 Loveridge Road, Pittsburg. $20 includes breakfast, poker run, motorcycle games, live music, barbecue lunch and drawings for prizes. ccbluestarmoms.org.
2-4 p.m. Sundays and Wednesdays, plus 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays to coincide with the Main Street Car Show. Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St. 672-0240 or claytonhistory.org.
Sept. 21 Clayton City Council
A year-round fundraising campaign culminates in a celebratory evening. Sponsored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Civic Park, Walnut Creek. lighthenight.org/sf or 415-581-1194.
Oct. 10 Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation 5K Run & Walk To benefit sports in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District high schools. Includes a timed, competitive 5K run, a fun run/walk and a kiddie event, Newhall Park, Concord. unitedmtdiabloathletics.org.
AT THE LIBRARY
Meets 7-8:30 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Clayton Library Story Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. All artforms and both emerging and experienced artists welcome. Contact Arlene at 673-9777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com. Creeksideartists.org.
Diablo Valley Democratic Club Meets 7-9 p.m. third Wednesday of the month, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road., Walnut Creek. 946-0469 or dvdems.org.
Diablo Valley Macintosh Users Group Meets 6:30-9 p.m. third Tuesday of the month. Bancroft Elementary School, 2700 Parish Dr., Walnut Creek. 689-1155 or dvmug.org.
East Bay Prospectors Club Meets 7 p.m. fourth Wednesday of the month, Gold Pan California, 1021 Detroit Ave., Unit D, Concord. Clayton resident Doug Junghans is president. eastbaygpaa.webs.com or 672-1863.
Knights Of Columbus, Concord Council 6038
The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. 673-0659 or claytonlibrary.org.
Meets 7:30 p.m. first Wednesday of the month, except holidays, Cauchi Hall, St. Agnes Catholic Church, 3966 Chestnut St, Concord. Contact George at 685-9547 or visit kofc6038.org.
Sept. 13 Clayton Library Book Club
Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise
Sunny Solomon leads discussion of “Little Bee” by Chris Cleave. 7 p.m.
Meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Includes breakfast and a speaker. 566-8166 or claytonvalleyrotary.org.
Sept. 15 “Fall and Winter in the East Bay Regional Parks”
Scrabble Club
Allison Meador, a naturalist with Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, discusses the off-season in East Bay parks. 7-9 p.m.
Oct. 20 “Make Your Money Work for You” Ruth Aston explains what investment choices may be right for you and some of the common errors made in the investing and asset allocation process. 7 p.m.
Sons In Retirement (SIRs) Meets 11:15 a.m. first Thursday of the month, Crown Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Dr., Concord. 429-3777.
Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista
Wednesdays Book Buddies
Meets 12:15 p.m. first, second and third Wednesdays of the month, September-June, Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Clayton resident Sue Manning is president. 672-2727.
Reading to 4- to 7-year-olds. 3-4 p.m.
MEETINGS
Widows/Widowers Meets for dinner, theater, etc. This is not a dating service nor a grieving class - just a way to meet people. Contact Lori at 9988844 or lori@lorihagge.com.
Sept. 14, 28 Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
Learn to Ride Children, Teens, Adults English, Western & Trail
Love horses? Ask about being an apprentice. Includes horse and instruction.
Scout Sessions/Rider’s Badge Approved by Girl Scouts of N. California with required insurance
Birthday Parties See website for details
Established 1971
1350 Castle Rock Rd. Walnut Creek
(925)
Meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. All ages and skill levels welcome. $3 fee. Call Mike at 639-1987 or scrabble-assoc.com.
937-7661
www.castlerockarabians.com
September 10, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 17
Travis Credit Union appoints Concord native to head Clayton Valley branch A Concord native has been appointed branch manager of the Clayton Va l l e y branch of Tr a v i s C r e d i t Union. A l i Sartipi will be responsible for the administration ALI SARTIPI
and operation of the Clayton Valley Shopping Center branch. He will emphasize asset growth and the professional development of employees. Sartipi brings extensive experience to the Concord and Clayton Valley communities. He was formerly with US Bank, where he served as a branch manager. In his six years of financial services experience, Sartipi has a track record of outstanding production while maxi-
mizing his efforts with the communities he serves. “Ali’s branch management experience, coupled with his seasoned background in customer service, makes him a highly valuable member of the Travis team,” said vice president Lila Dressen. Sartipi attended Woodside Elementary and Oak Grove Middle School. His family moved to Walnut Creek and he graduated from Las Lomas High
School. He lives in Antioch with his wife Veronica. They are expecting their first child in October. “Coming to Travis Credit Union has assured me that I can treat members like family,” he said. “It is that philosophy that makes it more enjoyable to come to work every day.” Travis Credit Union is at 5442 Clayton Valley Road, Concord. For more information, call 800-877-8328 or visit traviscu.org.
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Theatre Brought to you by
Charming musical has love in the letters
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Transporting, heartwarming and full of timeless magic, “She Loves Me” is widely considered the most charming and romantic musical ever written. Georg and Amalia are two feuding clerks in a European parfumerie during the 1930s who secretly find solace in their anonymous romantic pen pals, little knowing their respective correspondents are none other than each other. “She Loves Me” is the first production of Center Rep’s 44th subscription season. With music by Jerry Bock and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, the show is directed and choreographed by
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Robert Barry Fleming. Brandon Adams is the musical director. Fleming fell in love with “She Loves Me” 16 years ago, but he didn’t realize how many others would fall for the musical, revived across the country since its brief original run on Broadway. “It’s really an intimate musical play, one of those things that sneaks up on you,” Fleming says. Hollywood has had more success with the original story from the 1930s about a bickering couple who fall in love as anonymous pen pals. The screen versions are “The Shop around the Corner” in 1940, the musical “In
the Good Old Summertime” in 1949 and the digital-age’s “You’ve Got Mail” in 1998. The Center Rep cast includes Kelsey Venter as Amalia, the new clerk in the Budapest shop who is often at odds with the manager Georg, played by Ryan Drummond. As each describes the “Dear Friend” of their affectionate letters, the audiences realize the two are matched as pen pals before they do. “She Loves Me” plays through Oct. 10 at 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Tickets are $19-$45. For more information, call 295-1413 or visit centerrep.org.
DC SCARPELLI AS DADDY WARBUCKS, Marianna Scott in the title role and Gertie as Sandy appear in CCMT’s “Annie” at the Lesher Center through Oct. 2.
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Kelly Venter and Ryan Drummond in America’s favorite “She Loves Me” at the Lesher Center, Sept. 3 – Oct. 10.
the menacing Miss Hannigan, “Annie” will be played by 11year-old Marianna Scott of Alameda. She was one of 95 girls who auditioned for roles in the show. Nine were chosen. The cast also includes veteran performers Laurie Strawn as Miss Hannigan, DC Scarpelli as Daddy Warbucks, Tielle Baker, Peter Budinger and Samantha Bruce. “Annie” plays through Oct. 2 at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Tickets are $17-$48. For tickets, call 943-7469 or visit lesherartscenter.org.
Book Review
‘Ghost Dancer’ leaves lasting impression of small town CYNTHIA GREGORY
FOR
THE
BOOKS
There’s nothing quite so satisfying in the summer reading category than a coming-of-age novel that takes place over the course of a long, hot summer. In “The Last Ghost Dancer,” journalist Tony Bender creates a sense of place both real and haunting. The book is set in the late ’70s, but the time doesn’t seem to matter as much as the place. Cultural references are made to music and fashion, but the more important elements are contained in the landscape. Located in South Dakota, “The Last Ghost Dancer” unfolds with a sense of time drawn out slow and easy, under a vast, cloudless prairie sky. The narrative voice belongs to Bones, a small town boy on his way to nowhere. Working as a
mechanic in the one pony town of Pale Butte, Bones has a best friend named Woof, a mentor named Joe Big Cloud and a honey of a red-haired girlfriend called Maya. Bones, Woof and Joe seem to be permanent fixtures in the small timeless town, but Maya is destined for something else. She’s spending her last summer before college with her grandparents in Pale Butte, and of all the boys, she chooses Bones to be her summer beau. But almost as soon as she arrives, Maya is on her way out. Bones, Maya and Woof form an inseparable trio and often seek out the wisdom of enigmatic Joe Big Cloud, who is capable of mysterious healing powers and knows far more than he’s telling. The creep in the story is Spook, a menacing presence if ever there were one. Pets end up
damaged or dead when Spook is near, and the local sheriff can’t seem to make any charges stick because Spook’s daddy has a deep bank account and complaints get bought off as soon as they’re made. Still, Pale Butte is an ordinary small town. The new minister has an eye for the ladies. Bones’ mother knits a scarf she never seems to finish. Woof ’s mother is sick with a cancer that is eating her up. Bones has a brother named Coop and a dog named Charlie Brown. When Coop is seriously injured, Joe Big Cloud says a prayer over him and despite the odds, Coop survives. He inherits Joe’s healing ability and becomes
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Diablo Theatre presents ‘Annie,’ a family favorite With little fanfare, “Little Orphan Annie” disappeared from the comic strips last June after an 86-year run, but Diablo Theatre Company is making sure she is not forgotten. The red-headed orphan is still be going strong in the award-winning Broadway musical “Annie,” and Diablo Theatre Company will stage the show through Oct. 2. A family favorite since it premiered on Broadway in 1977, “Annie” features such familiar songs as “Tomorrow” and “It’s a Hard Knock Life.” Joined by her beloved dog Sandy, Daddy Warbucks and
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the town’s go-to miracle man. Soon, summer ends and Maya leaves for Stanford. “Sure, I’ll just tell her I’ve got a bad feeling. Then I’ll sound like the grumpy old farmers who predict a drought every year and worry more when it doesn’t happen,” Bones thinks to himself. “Then I’ll start predicting the weather based on the aches in my joints and I’ll start boring ... anyone I can corner with stories of the good old days when the crops were good and the blizzards were really something.” In the way of the best coming-of-age novels, there is no high dramatic climax because every moment is weighted and magical. Bender is a bit of a poet, and the novel is not just well-crafted, it is beautifully written. Cynthia Gregory writes book reviews, award-winning short stories and a blog. Visit her at www.twogirlstakeonlove.com or write ceegregory@aol.com
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Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 10, 2010
Blue Devils again at the top of the drum and bugle corps world Specializing in
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No organization has brought more glory to Concord and nearby environs than the Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps. Once again last month, the Blue Devils reigned supreme by claiming their unprecedented 14th Drum Corps International World Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. And for the second year in a row, the Blue Devils swept both the World and Open class titles a feat never accomplished before the Blue Devils did it last year. The Blue Devils A and B Corps are dotted with local participants. Fellow Clayton Valley High grads color guard member Allyson Kahl and trumpeter Kyle Peterson are part of the A Corps.
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Peterson of Clayton, now a business student at Sonoma State, moved up to the A Corps this year after being on the B Corps for six years. He has been a member of the Blue Devils since 2003, when
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FRIENDS AND FUN Emily Nunn, a senior at Clayton Valley High, is a member of the B Corps Color Guard. The Clayton resident joined the Blue Devils in 2001 after receiving a flier at school for dance and baton classes. “I have gained lifelong friends in the Blue Devils,” she says. “Dedication and motivation skills I have learned will continue into my adult life.” Olivia Hansen of Concord is also a CVHS senior on the B Corps who joined in 2001 after receiving a flier. In 2002, she was a member of the A Winter Guard and the C Corps. In 2009 and 2010, Hansen advanced to the color guard of the B Corps – winning backto-back World Open Class titles. “My most exciting moment was performing my championship individual sabre routine at semi-finals in front of lots of spectators,” she recalls. Her brother Lucas is also on the B Corps championship team. Tanner Frey, Mason Case and Tanya Trowbridge are all from Clayton Valley High and
Photos courtesy of Blue Devils
EMILY NUNN (LEFT) AND OLIVIA HANSEN are both seniors at Clayton Valley High School. They joined the Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps in 2001 after getting fliers at school and won their second straight DCI Open Class World Championships last month in Indianapolis as part of the Blue Devils B Corps.
members of the B Corps again this year. A COMMITTED CREW The Blue Devils A Corps was undefeated again this year as they traveled 15,000 miles and entered 30 competitions without defeat performing their program “Through A Glass, Darkly,” which brought audiences to standing ovations at every show. The DCI World Finals began a 10-year run at Lucas
Oil Stadium in Indianapolis in 2009 and the Blue Devils have claimed all the honors both years there. “I’m not sure how we got there, but I know what made up the organization,” said Blue Devils executive director David Gibbs. “It’s the staff, designers, instructors and an amazing group of kids who were committed from day one to the end. The talent and commitment of these kids made it happen.”
Concord issues cease and desist order to medical marijuana dispensary
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he joined the C Corps. “Performing in the Blue Devils has taught me how to stand up and speak in front of an audience,” he says. “I’ve made lifetime friends in the Blue Devils.” Kahl, 20, earned her second DCI World title. A student at Diablo Valley College, she’s followed in the footsteps of her mom Kelly, a Blue Devil alumnus. The younger Kahl joined the corps when she was in kindergarten and has been performing with them for 13 years.
Much to the dismay of Concord city officials, a medical marijuana dispensary opened recently on Clayton Road in Concord, just blocks away from an after-school center and Newhall Park. Since the business permit was approved for an herbal store, Concord city attorney Craig Labadie sent a cease and desist letter to Herbal Essence’s San Bruno-based owner, Najib Dabit. “It has come to the city’s attention that the Herbal Essence business … is being operated in a manner which is inconsistent with the factual representations made at the time the city issued a business license and administrative occupancy approval for this operation,” he said in the
Aug. 24 letter. Managers at the business refused to comment, stating that their lawyer was addressing the situation. Customers, however, were not as reticent. Devlyn Sewell is a 51-yearold Blue Star mom who suffered a massive stroke nine years ago. She uses medical marijuana to help her rest so her body can continue healing. Sewell, whose son recently returned from service in Iraq, acknowledged mixed feelings about using the drug despite two doctors’ suggesting she use it. “I’m a mom who’s trained her kids to stay away from drugs,” she said, standing in the parking lot at the dispensary. “I’ve had to have a whole conversation with them. I hope they’re not going to judge me on this.” She hopes the city can find
a way to allow the clinic to continue serving locals like her. “So many people aren’t as blessed as I am, they don’t have the transportation,” she said of the trek many sufferers have to make to as far away as Berkeley and Richmond. Concord and Clayton officials don’t necessarily oppose the use of marijuana for medical purposes. Yet worries persist about the ease of obtaining a prescription and possible attraction of teens and illicit dealers. “I think the general population of Clayton would have a problem with a medical marijuana dispensary in town,” said Clayton City Councilwoman Julie Pierce. “I’m not saying it’s a bad thing for people to use it for medical needs. I just think it’s problematic sometimes when you have an establishment
like that in a downtown as small as ours.” Concord City Council candidate Ron Leone has concerns as well. “Being in education for 35 years … I’ve seen some of the effects when it is made available close by parks or schools, and I would not be in favor of that.” Concord City Councilwoman Laura Hoffmeister offered an historical perspective. “The last time we looked at these issues, the community was not supportive of establishing medical marijuana dispensaries in Concord,” she said. The city has in the past forced a dispensary, opened near Mt. Diablo High School, to close. Dabit was given until Friday, Sept. 3, to respond to the city. As of 5:15 p.m. Sept. 3, no response had been received.
Vandals damage youth sports facilities Clayton Valley High School and the soccer fields at Boatwright Park were both hit hard by vandalism last month in separate incidents. About 8:45 p.m. Aug. 19, vandals broke into the CVHS Gonsalves Stadium. According to CVHS parent and lacrosse
team volunteer Michelle Hill, the vandals were caught on the video surveillance equipment as they pushed the player benches out onto the field. They were photographed again trashing the press box, “flipping the bird and dancing around” before tearing the cameras from their bases.
Initial estimates place the damage at $2,500. The photos were circulated by email to parents and coaches. Police would not comment on the case beyond saying it was a “continuing investigation.” Anyone with information is asked to contact
Detective Elsberry at (925) 603-5828. Anonymous tips can be made at (925) 603-5836 or (800)-222-TIPS. In a separate incident, about 2 a.m. on Aug. 27, police received reports of a truck
See Vandalism, page 20
August 20, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 19
Variegated mirror plants a landscape stunner Mirror, mirror on the wall, which is the most interesting shrub of all? That would be Coprosma repens. Coprosma is commonly called a mirror plant, describing its shiny, almost wet-looking foliage. This evergreen in fantastic in Clayton Valley landscapes, gardens and containers. There is a variegation to fulfill any application where an evergreen is needed. Mirror plants are great in a landscape. They satisfy a need, whether it be supporting a deciduous tree with winter interest or lending height to the face of a house wall.
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL Coprosma Evening Glow has an engaging variegation. Green leaves with yellow margins retain their freshness throughout the
hot months. As the weather cools with the onset of autumn, Evening Glow’s variegation takes on rich orange and pink-red shades. The color of the foliage only intensifies during the winter months. Even in our coldest winter, the mirror plant holds strong and sturdy. Last December’s snow and January’s frosty days did not damage this hardy shrub. Evening Glow can grow 4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. Use Evening Glow Coprosma for an evergreen support to red foliage Japanese maple tree or a Forrest Pansy Redbud. It would also be nice planted with
Child’s language development starts at an early age
SUE JACOBSEN
PARENTING TODAY An infant begins to discover the awesome power of communication when he finds that his crying will bring his caregiver to him. He soon learns to vary the volume and pitch of his cries to indicate his various needs –
hunger, wanting to be held, etc. At two months, as the infant begins to study the eyes of his caregiver, the communication skill of greeting begins to evolve. Imitation of voice tones and turn-taking develop as the infant engages in back and forth vocal play with his caregiver. The baby soon learns to imitate sounds and some words. Independent words follow. By 12 months, an infant usually has a couple words in his vocabulary. He is responding to his name, showing comprehension of several familiar words and may be following one or two verbal directions. By 18 months, a child has 10-15 words, names familiar
objects and says no, hi and bye appropriately. He is able to follow one-step familiar directions and can point to one body part when named, as well as several items of clothing. By 24 months, a child has a vocabulary of 50-plus words, begins to put two words together and starts to ask questions. He is also answering simple yes/no questions appropriately, choosing the correct item from a group of five objects when named and is showing comprehension of about five body part labels. The 30-month-old should be using a couple pronouns
See Parenting page 20
y e. ei famil z z a M e n servic h o t , r s a r b a e ye aised th For 56 r y l l a u tin has con
Crape Myrtle trees. A RICH, WARM COLOR Tequila Sunrise is another stunning selection perfect for a warm taupe or light tan colored home. Install this evergreen near the house wall as a foundation plant. Tequila Sunrise’s foliage will accessorize the color of the home, adding life and interest with its dark green leaves that change to a molten, rich brown. Tequila Sunrise may reach 5 feet tall and takes well to heavy spring pruning. All the mirror plants have soft, flexible wood that makes pruning easy. Since most mirror plants have unique looks, they lend themselves nicely to perennial beds and borders. Their foliage is so interesting that it complements flowering perennials. Rainbow Surprise has a green leaf with a creamy pink margin. This selection looks super alongside pink, purple, white and yellow perennials. Since perennial flowers have seasons of bloom and seasons of rest, adding touches of evergreens to the bed or border extends interest. Rainbow Surprise is a tad smaller than other mirror plants, reaching 3-4 feet tall and wide. Install with Moonshine Yarrow, Salvia Waverly or Penstemon Midnight. Surround with groundcovers like the Veronica Georgia Blue or Purple Superbenia. Rainbow Surprise Coprosma also would look right at home engulfed by purple coneflower or agastache. It really is a perfect evergreen for a garden bed. HERE COMES THE SUN Almost all of the mirror plants can tolerate full sun, as
COPROSMA EVENING GLOW long as they are watered regularly. They also look great and keep their interesting color when planted in part sun. If you have a shady spot, your mirror plant choice is quite limited. Arctic Queen is a mirror plant whose leaf color does not change. Deep, shiny green leaves are heavily margined with bright cream. Arctic Queen loves the shade, and the bright variegation adds brightness to the dark areas. Expect 2-3 feet of height and 34 feet of width from the Arctic Queen. Some interesting companions with the Arctic Queen are the bellflower groundcover, fuchsia thymifolia and Salvia Black and Blue. When gardeners are interested in creating combination planters, they often look for an evergreen to center the container. The mirror plant is a perfect shrub for a medium to large size container. Surround your chosen Coprosma with medium sized
color and flowers that trickle over the side. Imagine Coprosma Evening Glow centered in your container with coral-colored zinnias, burgundy Superbenia and crackling fire million bells trickling over the side. If you are creating a container combination and your landscape theme is more Mediterranean, try a combination of Tequila Sunrise Coprosma with Peach Melba heuchera and sedum Vera Jamison cascading over the edge of the pot. Mirror plants have a few needs. They desire regular water, annual fertilizer and occasional early spring pruning. Using a Coprosma in your garden, landscape or in a container will add that special touch without any extra hard work. Try one – or two. 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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Vandalism, from page 18 tearing up the grass on the soccer fields at Boatwright Park on Pine Hollow Road. When police arrived, the truck was parked on the field and Clayton resident Anthony Granelli, 23, was sitting behind the wheel. According to Concord PD, Granelli appeared to be drunk and admitted to causing the damage to the fields and sprinkler system. Police arrested Granelli for DUI and felony vandalism. His passenger, 23-year-old Steven Smith of Pleasant Hill, was arrested for being drunk in public and conspiracy to commit felony vandalism. Granelli’s 1997 Dodge Ram pickup was impounded. Damage is estimated at several thousand dollars. “After a full assessment by the city of Concord, the determination is that extent of damage is worse than originally anticipated,” said Kurt Ecklin, field scheduler
for the Diablo Futbol Club. “Boatwright fields 5 and 6 are closed until at least Sept. 24.” Diablo FC will be hosting 64 teams from throughout Northern California at the 14th annual Bob Fowler Memorial Tournament on Sept. 25-26. “All matches scheduled for these fields until then will be reassigned to other fields,” Ecklin added. “In order to make all of the changes work, it will require the movement of several matches assigned on other fields too.” The damage comes at the start of fall soccer season, with teams from Diablo FC using the Boatwright complex as they compete in five different leagues and Mt. Diablo Soccer Association hosting its house league and area league games there. Tamara Steiner and Jay Bedecarre contributed to this story
Parenting, from page 19 correctly (“I want” instead of “Me want.”), asking “where” questions, using three-word phrases and is understood about 50 percent of the time. He is also showing comprehension of big and little, understanding action words such as running and eating and following two-step directions (“Go to your room and get your shoes.”). By 36 months, a child is using three- and four-word phrases, appropriately putting some plural endings on words, has a vocabulary of 200-plus words and is understood about 80 percent of the time. He is also showing comprehension of simple prepositions such as in and on, pointing to the correct item when their function is stated (“What do you eat with?”) and pointing to several
colors when named. As your child progresses through the various stages of language development, listen to his attempts to talk and focus on what he is saying rather than on how he is saying it. Avoid correcting him while he is speaking. Instead, discreetly model appropriate speech back to your child when repeating what he said. Try to focus when your child is speaking to you. This will convey to him that what he has to say is important.
Sue Jacobsen in a Child Development Specialist and is employed by We Care Services Children. She holds a B.A. in Child Welfare and has been a Child Development Specialist for the past 8 years.
September 10, 2010
Paella – from the pan to the party
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
In parts of Spain, paella means a polished steel pan, traditionally round and shallow with two handles on the side. Throughout the rest of the world, paella is synonymous with a party in a pan. The classic paella arguably comes from Valencia, where rabbit, duck, some vegetables and snails are common ingredients even today. Along the coast, paella aficionados are more likely to include various types of seafood and fish. Ingredients change seasonally. While homemade paella is a study in restraint and family pride, restaurants are more likely to include everything plus the kitchen sink to satisfy their clientele. Historically, paella was not a party dish, but a simple country meal of rice and whatever meats and vegetables could be found, all cooked outdoors over an open fire. The Spanish developed a taste for rice during the reign of the Arab Moors from North Africa, and it remains a favorite grain in modern Spanish cuisine. The selection of paella rice is a serious undertaking. The rice must be short grain with a generous starch layer that soaks up all of the wonderful flavors
2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves 2 tsp. smoked Spanish papri-
of the dish. The pricey heirloom variety Bomba is ideal but is found in only a few specialty retail stores (like my store, Pans on Fire in Pleasanton). You can find “paella rice” (from the Valencia region, likely Calasparra) at upscale markets like Whole Foods in Walnut Creek. Italian Arborio rice isn’t a particularly good substitution and you must avoid long-grain and Asian short-grain rice. If you decide to make paella, you’ll find a zillion recipes. There are, however, three rules you need to follow. First of all, use the right pan; an authentic paella pan is really the best. And don’t overload the pan because it interferes with flavor development and even cooking. Most of all, don’t stir the rice. When you add the rice with the broth and seasonings and give it a good stir, that’s it. Shake the pan occasionally because stirring during cooking will make the rice gummy. Properly cooked, the rice will form a toasty crust at the bottom of the pan. This soccarat is highly prized and allows leftover paella (if there is any!) to be enjoyed for another day or two.
parsley mixture. Pour in enough hot stock to cover the rice. Start with 4 cups, adding more if necessary. Gently shake the pan to distribute the rice evenly. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, moving the pan so the liquid boils evenly. Arrange fish and seafood over the rice; shellfish should sit hinge side down. Continue to cook, shaking and rotating the pan from time to time for even cooking. Add more stock if the rice seems too firm. When the rice is tender and a toasty smell from the soccarat can be detected (about 10-15 minutes), remove the pan from the heat
ka 1 T. water 2 c. paella rice 2 T. olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped 1 large red bell pepper, finely chopped 1 medium tomato, finely chopped Lemon wedges Peel and devein shrimp, savings shells. Combine the stock and shells in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer for 2 minutes. Strain a n d add saffron.
a n d cover with foil or newspaper. Let it rest for 5 minutes then remove the cover and let it sit another 5 minutes. Discard any unopened mussels or clams. Try serving it family-style in the middle of the table and everyone digs in with a spoon. Offer a bold Torrontes red wine or fruity sangria. Salud!
Ke e p w a r m until ready to use. Scrub the clams and debeard the mussels if needed; set aside. Mash the parsley, garlic, thyme and a generous pinch of kosher salt into a paste. Stir in the paprika and add water to make the mixture pourable. Combine with the rice and set aside. Preheat a 15-17 inch paella pan, then add the oil. Add the onion and red pepper. Cook until the vegetables are slightly softened. Add the tomato and stir until soft. Stir in rice and
SEAFOOD PAELLA 4-6 c. fish or chicken stock 12 each large unshelled shrimp, mussels and clams ½ tsp. crumbled saffron threads 2 lbs. firm-fleshed white fish, such as true cod, lingcod or halibut, cut into 8 pieces Kosher salt 2 T. minced fresh parsley 4 cloves garlic, minced
Linda Wyner, a local attorney and foodie, owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com
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