Watch for your
2010 Clayton Almanac Coming Soon
IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
925.672.0500
Sophomore STAR scores up, others flat or down Fluctuating scores cause some to question value of standardized tests TAYLOR TOVREA AND SARAH ROSEN Clayton Pioneer
The return of California’s trademark clear skies and sunshine goes hand in hand with picnics, spring break, and for public school children in grades 2-11, lengthy standardized tests.
The California Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) program makes its annual appearance each May. Public schools across California spend one to two weeks taking the California Standards Tests (CST), which measure students’ overall knowledge and comprehension of state academic standards in various subjects. The program was started in 1998 to pinpoint where improvements were needed within individual student’s overall learning.
Students’ scores are put in five categories – advanced, proficient, basic, below basic and far below basic – in order to identify problem areas. The proficient category was established by the state Board of Education as the recommended achievement goal for all students. MEASURING ACCOUNTABILITY When the scores are accumulated at the end of August, they are used to formulate a school’s Academic
Performance Index (API) scores, which is a measurement of the school’s accountability system. This score is largely responsible for the school’s reputations and often is a factor in parents’ decision of where to send their children. With an API score of 776, Clayton Valley High School falls just short of the statewide target score of 800 out of a possible 1,000. The score matches its 2010 CST results. The class of 2013’s percentage of
proficient and advanced scores fell short of past years’ scores across the board, only managing to stay above the state average in biology, language arts and geometry. At CV, 58 percent met the goal of proficiency in biology vs. 62 percent in 2009, 60 percent in 2008 and 50 percent in 2007. The language arts test dropped to 67
See STAR results, page 8
CERT volunteers hone their emergency response skills at large-scale disaster drill MIKE DUNN & HERB YONGE Special to the Pioneer
HANK STRATFORD
MAYOR’S CORNER Meet and greet the local police Clayton was tied as the third safest city in California on the FBI’s listing of crime statistics for 2009. This is based on violent crimes among cities with populations between 10,000 and 99,999. Clayton ranks high each year thanks in large part to our dedicated police department. In case you don’t know all of our police officers, I thought I would introduce them. This information won’t get you out of a ticket, but it may make the conversation more interesting. The Clayton Police Department is led by Chief Dan Lawrence. The chief has been with the PD for five years. He has competed in a few triathlons and completed the swim from Alcatraz to San Francisco a couple of times. He enjoys golfing and owns a rare BMW Z3 M Coupe. I wish he would use this car for patrols but, for some reason, he mainly drives the white Crown Victoria. Lawrence graduated from Clayton Valley High School. Our two sergeants, Tim Marchut and Scott Dansie, have been with the department for more than 10 years. Marchut, also a CVHS grad, has been described as a bargain-hunting, Volvo-loving, family man.
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
See Mayor, page 18
Mike Dunn/Clayton Pioneer
MORE THAN 250 COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM volunteers put their training and skills to work at an areawide training drill on Sept. 11. The CERT course teaches basic rescue and survival techniques to citizens, preparing them to respond to community needs in the critical days following a major disaster.
Responders honored for exceptional service MIKE DUNN Special to the Pioneer
“And I’m very proud to say we stole her from the Concord Police Department,” Sgt. Scott Dansie said in his introduction. “Shanna shows up for work every day with a smile on her face. She is eager to be there; she is happy to serve her community,” Dansie added. “She enjoys the camaraderie of the people she works with. She is a truly a pleasure to supervise as an employee.” “I can’t tell you how honored I am to be here,” said Decoite, accepting her award. “I thank everyone here, my sergeant and my co-workers who made me the officer that I am now. I’m so
Three local first responders were chosen singled out for special recognition by their peers for emplary work and heroic acts of bravery at the annual Knights of Columbus Blue Mass on Sept.11. Two are police officers from Clayton and Concord and the third, firefighter and CVHS alumni. The event, honoring police officers and firefighters from city, county and state agencies was hosted by the Catholic mens’ organization at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Concord. Officer Shanna Decoite has been with the Clayton Police See Service honors, page 16 Department since 2008.
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Church News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Mike Dunn/The Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Officer Shanna Decoite is congratulated by her supervisor, Sgt. Scott Dansie. Decoite was chosen by her peers for outstanding service.
Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Community Calendar . . . . . . . .16 Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . .5 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Letters to the Editor . . . . . . . . . . .6 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Reader’s Forum . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Senior Moments . . . . . . . . . . . .15 School News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
The morning started out like any other summer day in Concord and Clayton. Then at 9:58 a.m. on Sept. 11, a 7.0 temblor hit. No, you didn’t sleep right through it. The disaster scenario was run by local Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). The training drill took place at Contra Costa Fire’s training facility in Concord, with more than 250 CERT members from Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Lafayette, Concord and Clayton. Seventy-seven residents played the role of victims. Rich Veal, Clayton CERT’s chief of operations, wrote the 66 scenarios for the victims. They were trapped in a high-rise office building, in an overturned bus, under a car or collapsed wall and in a house damaged by the earthquake. To add realism to the drill, victims were made up with head wounds, broken bones and bruises. Some victims wandered about
See CERT drill, page 7
Clayton third safest small city in state Clayton fared well in the latest round of FBI crime stats, tying with Mill Valley and Palos Verdes Estates for the third safest small city in the state. Ranking is based on the number of violent crimes – murder, rape, robbery and aggravated assault for cities with populations of 10,000 – 99,999. The three third place cities each had seven serious crimes. Clayton, with a population of 11,333 had one murder – the
See FBI ranking, page 16
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Time to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Your Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
Around Town It’s OSH, bygosh!
“Paws to Read” Program at Clayton Library
Photos by Mike Dunn
OSH President Rob Lynch cuts though the wood beam “ribbon” and declared the store open.
Celebrating the new store were Tom Carey, OSH Chief Marketing Officer, Gary Seigrist, Store Manager, John Beasley, Senior VP of Operations and Rob Lynch, OSH President and CEO.
By 3 a.m, excited shoppers were already gathering at the new OSH store in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center. By sunrise, the line stretched around the corner and down the street. At 7 a.m., the OSH version of a ribbon cutting began when President and CEO Rob Lynch, wielding a chain saw, deftly cut through a wood beam signed by the 60 store employees and Lynch declared Store 89 “officially open.” “This is a great store, we were here yesterday. It’s beautiful; it has a lot of everything,” said Elise Weber of Concord. Her basket was full of daffodil bulbs, a weed trimmer, four little flash lights and a chair. “All very exciting, very exciting,” said store manager Gary Siegrist, a Clayton resident. “We’re glad to be in Concord.” Seigrist has been with OSH for 18 years. The new 43,000 sq. ft. store includes 12,000 sq. ft. of nursery space and fills the void created when Yardbirds closed in early 2009. Customers have been clamoring for a closer place to shop and the Clayton Valley Center merchants have been praying for foot traffic. The store is located in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center, 5424 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord, (925) 524-0342. Visit the OSH website: www.osh.com/Cultures/enUS/. - Mike Dunn
Thanks to the collaboration between sisters Martha Anthony and Bonnie Boswell, a Clayton resident, and Clayton Community librarians Karen Hansen-Smith and Mary-Alice McKillen-Wright, local students in grades one through five now have a unique opportunity to hone their reading skills by reading to carefully screened and calmly attentive dogs. The program, “Paws to Read Lisa’s Legacy” benefits students who may be shy about reading out loud and want to practice their skills in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. The program is also for those students who simply like to read. The goal is to foster the love of reading among all children. The first session of Paws to Read was held last spring. It was hugely popular with the children and the volunteers and their dogs. The students may choose from several dogs including Wags, a
Regency Woods! Great single story tucked away at the end of a quiet court backing to open space!
three-legged dog, Nigel, a one hundred-twenty pound Newfoundland and Sophie, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
It was dunkin’ for docs at the Clayton Valley Orthodontics BBQ
DR. STEPHEN LUDWIG
Walnut Creek
Clayton
MEGAN EBERHART, second grade student at Mt. Diablo Elementary, reads to Phin, a 10-year old Border Terrier. Phin’s owner, Vicki McFadin looks on at the Clayton Library’s Paws to Read program.
On Wednesday 9/8/10 Clayton Valley Orthodontics held their annual Ice Cream Social Extravaganza in the parking lot at their Clayton Road office. Dr. Stephen Ludwig kept his cool as dozens lined up at the dunk tank to “dunk the doc.” A DJ, a magician, a rock-climbing wall and hair beading experts all added to the fun. And, of course, everyone screamed for ice cream.
Each dog is accompanied by its human companion. The dogs, companions and students sit on mats on the floor. The students choose books from a large selection or may bring their own. Dogs often listen with their heads in the students’ laps. Martha and Bonnie are sponsoring and funding the program in honor of Martha’s daughter, Lisa Hurst, who died of a brain tumor in 2009. Lisa loved children and animals. She had completed her Masters’ Degree in Counseling and was looking forward to working with children. Her mother and aunt feel certain that Lisa would have been pleased to have the program named in her memory. The next session of Paws to Read is Tues., Oct. 5 – Nov. 9, 4 – 4: 30 p.m. and 4:30 – 5 p.m. The program is free. For more information, call Clayton Community Library, (925) 673-0659, Bonnie Boswell (925) 673-3545 or Martha Anthony (925) 838-7241.
GEORGE VUJNOVICH
Main Chance Estates! Desirable Quiet Location in Complex.
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! $499,000
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
georgevujnovich.com
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated. Better Homes DRE#00933393
Clayton
Clayton
(925)
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,
PENDING
672-4433
valley & hills below! 3 bedrooms plus a Den, 3 baths,
PENDING
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
PENDING Oakhurst Country Club! Peacock Creek! Sensational “Legacy” model on a premium lot 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
3030 Windmill Canyon Dr ........$605,000 53 El Portal Dr..........................$608,150 3307 Coyote Cir .......................$370,000 1015 Feather Cir ......................$450,000 51 Tule Court............................$430,000 605 Condor Pl ..........................$295,000
SF . . . . .2313 . . . . .2857 . . . . .1595 . . . . .1638 . . . . .1749 . . . . .1252
BED/BATH
SALE DATE
. . . . .4/2.5 . . . .9/15/10 . . . . .5/3 . . . . .9/14/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .9/8/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .9/8/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .9/3/10 . . . . .2/2.5 . . . . .9/3/10
ADDRESS
PRICE
41 Fleming Ct...........................$550,000 62 Antelope Ct..........................$710,000 154 Mt. Vernon Dr ....................$500,000 140 Mt. Whitney Wy .................$530,000 5614 Ohman Pl ........................$558,000 237 El Pueblo Pl.......................$675,000
SF . . . . .2324 . . . . .2448 . . . . .1811 . . . . .1796 . . . . .2398 . . . . .2643
BED/BATH
SALE DATE
. . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .9/2/10 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .9/1/10 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .9/1/10 . . . . .3/2 . . . . .8/31/10 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . .8/30/10 . . . . .5/3 . . . . .8/26/10
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Around Town Windermere puckers up to kiss off PH Lynne French and her staff recently stepped up to help Kathy Groebner in her fight against pulmonary hypertension, the debilitating disease that threatens the life of her 8year-old daughter, Katie Grace. In her effort to raise public awareness of the disease, Groebner is aiming for a place in the Guinness Book of World Records with the PuckerUp4PH campaign. To help her reach her goal of the most “blue lips kisses,” the Lynne French agents and staff
Keith Bradburn receives Bay Area top dentist award
DR. KEITH BRADBURN
The little yellow home on the corner of Main Street houses an award-winning dental practice in the heart of Clayton. Dr. Keith Bradburn, DDS, recently won a 2010 Top Bay Area Dentist award – placing him in the top 10 percent of
Specializing in
donned blue lipstick and “kissed” a special form provided by Guinness. The disease is frequently misdiagnosed, says Groebner. Early diagnosis is critical for the success of any treatment. Groebner’s daughter will ultimately need a heart-lung transplant. To help Groebner and be part of the “Most Blue Lips” world record, stop by the Lynne French office at 6200 Center St., Ste. E, or call (925) 673-2188 for more information.
dentists in the Bay Area. The award was sponsored by Doctors Improving Healthcare, a firm based in San Francisco. They teamed up with NBC and “The Today Show” to show videos of the winning doctors and their practices. Bradburn’s video was featured on March 8. Bradburn has been practicing in Clayton since 2005. He was chosen for the award after receiving top ratings by other dentists and from positive online reviews from patients. “I feel honored to be recognized for the excellent care we provide to our patients,” he said.
Adult and Children’s Orthodontics Clear and Self-Ligating Braces Invisalign and Teen Invisalign Digital X-Rays and Photos Stephen E. Ludwig, DMD, MS, Inc
1494 Washington Blvd., Suite D Concord Contact us at: cvortho@sbcglobal.net (925) 672-6200 or visit our website:
claytonvalleyortho.com It was the blue lip special at the Windermere office last week when Lynne French, Carol vanVaerenbergh and Nancy D’Onofrio puckered up to support Kathy Groebner in her quest to raise awareness of pulmonary hypertension.
Pioneering in St. Petersburg The Aring family of Clayton went visited the capitols of Northern Europe this summer. We stopped with them for this shot in front of the Cathedral of the Spilled Blood in St. Petersburg, Russia. Pictured are Chris, Katheryn and Carson Aring.
What’s happening
Around Town? Send your news and photos of your births, engagements weddings, special recognitions, etc. to info@claytonpioneer.com.
The dental practice is at 6123 Main St., Clayton. For more information, call 672-0110. To view the episode featuring Bradburn, visit doctorsimprovinghealthcare.org.
Brought to you by
Concord Disposal Recycle your waste at our place
Recycling Center & Transfer Station www.contracostawaste.com Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. 925-473-0180 Please call for prices
Mt. Diablo Recycling www.mtdiablorecycling.com We’ll buy back your recyclables! 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Open Monday - Friday 925-682-4518 Please call for prices
1300 Loveridge Road, Pittsburg
JUST LISTED
170 Brandywine Place, Clayton $839,000 Peacock Creek – Located on a prime corner lot, singlestory 4BD/3BA plus den has over $200K of superior upgrades. Enjoy impeccable landscaping & an outdoor 170Brandywine.com kitchen and spa.
1824 Princeton Ct., Concord $499,000 Down a Private Lane – Wonderful 3BD/2.5BA offering fabulous kitchen & gardens galore with a quiet creek passing through meandering paths & fruit trees. 1824PrincetonCourt.com
328 Mt. Washington Way, Clayton $569,000 Dana Hills – Single-story ranch home with 4BD/2BA has fireplace, built-ins in living & family rooms, and a wonderful backyard with large spa.
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.
MtWashingtonWay.com
1267QuietCircle.com
Proud 5th Year Sponsor!
ton y a EST C l O BE R F KT O
$639,000 101 Burns Court, Pleasant Hill Poets Corner – 3BD/2.5BA is a MUST SEE 10! – Beautiful updates & architecture. Enjoy fabulous kitchen & stylish master suite. Newly landscaped corner lot!
$659,000 267 Mountaire Parkwy, Clayton 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.
1123 Whispering Pines Road, Clayton $799,000 Morgan Territory – Entertain in style at your private creek side retreat at the foot of Mt. Diablo! Custom 4BD/3BA has grand living room w/cathedral ceilings.
101BurnsCourt.com
MountaireParkway.com
1123WhisperingPines.com
THIS AREA’S #1 REALTOR® Assisting more buyers & sellers than anyone else* * Statistics based on Clayton closed transactions by listing/sales agent (1/08-12/08). Data by MaxEBRDI.
Clayton Resident & Broker Owner
Stop by our booth & pose for your
FREE Commemorative Photo
October 15 is Windermere Community Service Day Drop a non-perishable items to our office bin from 9/24-10/15 and we will deliver to the Contra Costa Food Bank! For details call 673-2188
DRE# 01122025
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
OCTOBER SPECIALS $10 off* acrylic new set
$5 off* acrylic fill
Main Street Nail Studio 933-8606 Lisa Tonti
$20 off* color/highlight
$50 off* Brazilian Blowout
Grace Pruett at
Frontier Hair Salon 672-6900
*New clients only
6064 Main Street in Clayton
Clinic! Party! & Sale
Dean and Sheri Lacey & Castle Rock Arabians Invite you to our 7th Annual
of finer Arabian & Half-Arabians Saturday, October 9 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is a fantastic time to enjoy the backdrop of beautiful Mt. Diablo while learning the key secrets of communicating with your horse and developing that unique harmony between human and horse.
Bring a good attitude, plan to party and
Castle Rock Arabians Established 1971
1350 Castle Rock Rd. Walnut Creek
fall in love with a horse! For reservations or questions,
call Nancy Dupont at 925.937.7661
WWW.CASTLEROCKARABIANS.COM
Fundraising aids young fire victims In the spirit of giving, residents have come together to create Clayton Cares: An Emergency Relief Fundraising Event to help a young fire victim and her family. On Tuesday, Sept. 28, a team of local business and home owners will raise funds to help Sue Uhrich. The 23-yearold San Jose State student has a full-time job and is the custodial parent of two teenage siblings. The family was recently victims of a fire at the house they were renting in Sunnyvale. The home was declared a total loss, and Uhrich did not have insurance. Although the siblings were not injured, two dogs died in the fire. The committee is led by local baker Sue Faina of Sue Faina Cakes. The fundraiser will be 5-9 p.m. at Oakhurst Country Club and will include a large silent auction and raffle, food, drinks and a DJ The event will be complimentary, in the hopes of generating more monetary donations. There will be free child care and activities for kids.
Obituary
Joan Giammona 1938 – 2010 Joan L. Giammona, 72, longtime resident of Clayton died Sept. 8 at her home, surrounded by her family. Joan was born in Highland Park, Michigan and moved to California as a young child with her parents Rose and Eligio Marchiano. She was an active member of St. Bonaventure Church, where she served in many ministries as well as being a welcoming face and secretary in the parish offices for over fourteen years. She was an Associate with the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, a member of Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court De La Salle 1934 and a volunteer at St. Agnes School. Joan was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and
The Pioneer -- It’s your paper!
National Karastan Month SemiAnnual Sales Event Save up to
$
1,000
Cash Back Authorized Dealer
Carpet Hardwood Ceramic Tile Laminate Vinyl Cork Bamboo Free In-Home Estimates Financing Available
925-939-2145 2615 North Main St., Walnut Creek
www.lewisandlewiscarpets.com
Lucas Donart and Ryan, Alyssa and Lauren, children of Marc and Mary Giammona. She is also survived by brothers and sisters-in-law Jim and Claire Marchiano, Michael and Paula Marchiano; and sisters-in-law, Catherine Giammona and Rose Campbell, as well as many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her aunt Mary Bonfante and her many Ohio cousins. Joan was predeceased by her husband of 30 years, Sam Giammona in 1989. friend who brought much happiness to many. Joan is survived by daughters Mary Francis Giammona, Julie Giammona and Katie Ezidro (Ron); grandchildren Justine and Jordan Gonzales,
Memorial gifts may be made to Bay Area Crisis Nursery, St. Bonaventure Food Pantry or Joan Giammona St. Bonaventure Meditation Garden Fund, c/o St. Bonaventure’s. 5562 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521.
Sarah Schneider 1942 – 2010
Gift certificates and prize donations are still needed. For more information, call Nina Voss at 672-9737, ext. 217, or email events@oakhurstcc.com.
Sales Service Installation
Mon. - Fri. 9 - 5, Sat. 10 - 3
September 24, 2010
Sarah Ann Schneider, 68, died Saturday, Sept. 11, at her home after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Sarah was born in Yakima,
Washington on Sept. 2, 1942 to Emmitt and Marjorie McKanna. Sarah spent most of her adult life in service to many children in the Bay Area as a committed school teacher. Sarah was an active member of St Bonaventure Church where she served in many ministries. Sarah grew up in California where she met, fell in love with and married Wayne Paul Schneider. Sarah and Wayne were happily married for 45 years until Wayne’s death in 2009. In 2010 Sarah married Barry Dent of Concord. Barry and Sarah spent the last 6 months of Sarah’s life in devotion to one another which brought a new
chapter of joy to Sarah’s life. Sarah is survived by her three children Charles Schneider and wife Jill of Walnut Creek; David Schneider and wife Michelle of Pflugerville, Texas and Heather Schneider of Sonora, California. Sarah is adored by her four grandchildren Cameron, Haley, Austin and Evan. Sarah is survived by three siblings Susan McClure of San Diego, John McKanna of LaJolla and Jim McKanna of Huntington Beach. We will all miss Sarah’s love, strength, passion and determination. She was a remarkable woman loved by a great number of family and friends.
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Appliance
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 S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Lou Fancher, Nicci Shipstead, Pam Wiesendanger, Mike Dunn We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse
Directory of Advertisers
Repairs
Auto Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900
by Bruce, Inc.
Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739
35 years experience
“We do a dog gone good job” Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer 30 year Clayton residents Office: (925) 672-2700 Cell: (925) 956-8605 State of California B.E.A.R license #A44842
Page 5
- Zoey & Bruce
Children’s Services Kid’s Choice Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-9543 Kidz Planet Daycare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-3012
We repair all major appliances, most major brands, and we’re local
http://appliancerepairsbybruce.com
Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212-3339 Handyman Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .639-4209 LHI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-9941
PIONEER INFO CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 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 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-
criminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 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.
Piano Lessons
Shield of Armor, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .285-6400
Martha Wasley
Clayton Valley Orthodontics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6200
Concert pianist, teacher and coach Piano faculty at UC Berkeley Located in Clayton
Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dentist Ludwig, Stephen D.M.D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6200 Renner, Jason D.D.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800 Rissel, Richard D.M.D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Diablo Theatre Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .943-7469
Please call Tel: 925-524-0719 Cell: 925-998-3662
Willows Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .957-2500 Events Clayton Business and Community Association . .672-2272 Pacific Coast Farmers Market
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9090
Financial and Insurance Services Required kindergarten screening – complimentary
Benton, Mureleen - Ameriprise Financial . . . . . .685-4523
for Infants, Children & Teenagers
Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-877-8328
Dentistry
Jason M. Renner, D.D.S. Richard C. Rissel, D.M.D
925-689-2800
Proudly serving the Diablo Valley for over 25 years – “experience counts”
Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 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 Alexander KAT
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .977-1616
Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757
www.diablovalleykids.com 2875 Willow Pass Rd., Concord
Less than 5 miles from Clayton
Floors to Go Danville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .820-8700 Just Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-4747 Lewis & Lewis Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .939-2145
Classified LOST AND FOUND Lost Cat Barley. 2-year-old male. Gray, tigerstriped, long and lean. Skittish. Disappeared from Oakhurst and Indian Wells Way 9/5. Stewart 7886856.
SERVICES Math Tutor Glowing references. Professional, credentialed, one-on-one, in-home tutoring for Elementary, Middle, High School math, SAT. Experienced with learning disabilities. (650) 280-9541, bmathtutor1@gmail.com. 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.
Navlet’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-0550 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Mailing and Shipping The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 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 Rodie’s Feed and Country Store . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 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
WANTED Singers Wanted Local adult singing group, Yesterday’s Kids, needs two sopranos and a baritone/bass that can read music enough to pick up their part quickly. Group sings at community events (July 4, Memorial Day, Library Celebration, etc), retirement and nursing homes and hospitals. Traditional, patriotic, Christmas, Broadway and vintage tunes. Call Linda Manzeck at 672-2722 or Tamara Steiner at 285-8612 or 6720500. Pet Sitter Wanted $25/day to watch my Irish Setter in your fenced yard October 15-27. Jim 672-9938.
Morucci, Kimberly - J. Rockcliff Realtors . . . . . . .437-1650 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation All Out Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4303 Castle Rock Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .937-7661 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Retail East Bay Work Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-9900 Scary Decorations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8099 Sport Chalet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .521-7009 Senior Services Aegis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .692-5838 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Services, Other
Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today (925) 6728787.
Air Cloud Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 x 2 College Planning Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-1704 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Martha Wasley Piano Lessons . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0719
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029
Meals on Wheels Drivers 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@att.net Help fight Hunger Call Anna Chan at 672-1988. Anna’s Attic Volunteers Call 674-9072 or (925) 766-5066. Clayton Community Library. 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org
Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
Reader’s Forum
UTOPIC GARDENS
The answer … is blowing in the wind The Pioneer makes the Readers Forum space available to readers with a point of view on a topic of community interest. The views expressed in the Readers Forum are those of the writer and not necessarily held by the Pioneer publishers. CHRISTINE ONDERSMA Special to the Pioneer OPTIMIZE YOUR SPACE!
925.524.0055 DESIGN & INSTALLATION LIC. NO. 898331 Fully Insured - Clayton Resident
www.utopicgardens.com
Now that I am home during the day, I realize someone is using a gas leaf blower in the immediate vicinity of our home every day of the week except Sunday. The noise is irritating, the dust blown around makes our windows and homes dirty, and the emissions are harmful and nauseating. The pollution emit-
ted from a commercial leaf blower is equal to that of 18 vehicles. I wonder if there are any Clayton residents who would like to see gas leaf blowers banned, as in some other cities. After doing some research, I found that the process to officially ban them is futile. So, I had some other ideas and wondered if anyone out there thinks they have value. 1. Cities could specify that
blowers must be electric or below certain decibel/pollution levels. 2. Cities could purchase these at a volume discount for resale to commercial landscape maintenance people or homeowners. Or, the city could rent them out to businesses or homeowners as needed. 3. Neighborhoods and homeowner associations could pool together to purchase blowers (and other high ticket items), then take turns using them or allowing their landscape maintenance people to use them. 4. Designate days of the week
for landscapers to work in specific neighborhoods so we at least have some days without the noise. 5. Enforce the laws we have re: residential noise pollution and emissions control. 6. Perhaps a bottom-up change could be encouraged. If landscapers started using quiet, odorless equipment and promoted themselves that way, many homeowners would switch. Then it would reach the natural marketing “tipping point” when others would follow due to the competition. 7. Or, back to the rake and broom?
prices in such an arbitrary manner. Also, what is wrong with interstate sales of policies and with maximums on liability lawsuits against health providers? Gene Snow Clayton
home we noticed all the items were gone . . . (We) assumed (the Cancer Research driver) had picked them up but we found out all our items were taken by folks who know items will be left curbside . . . I’m writing to forewarn folks who wish to donate items to make sure they are not taken from your curbside as it is common practice for people to remove these items for there own use or for resale. . . Hopefully this letter may help (organizations that deserve the donations) and not individuals who take advantage of these neighborhood collections. Ruth Faix Clayton
Letters to the Editor Health care changes needed
Doug Van Wyck CLU ChFC, Agent Insurance Lic. #:0586396
6200 Center St. Ste. A Clayton, CA 94517
925-672-2300
Open Seven Days a week Extended hours in October
Call me and I’ll help you choose the right life insurance for you and your family
Today we received notice from Blue Shield of California that our Medigap insurance will increase by 3 percent on Oct. 1, with additional increases to come. During September 2009 that insurance was increased by 41 percent in anticipation of higher Obama health plan costs. That health plan will do nothing to contain or reduce health care cost increases. It guaranteed that many of us will not be able to afford our health insurance and that the country will go broke. My wife and I are basically on a fixed income from one pension that has not changed in over 20 years and social security which paid no COLA
Locally Owned and Operated. Shop in confidence as we will meet or beat any price on identical items*
this year and will pay none in 2011. We have a small amount of dividends that were larger before the economic crisis that was caused by the absence of oversight by government authorities and with government collusion in the lax policies of certain GSE’s such as Fannie Mae. There will be no increase in social security for two years because the government has decreed that there is no inflation. Been to the grocery store recently? (We need) changes to the health insurance industry in this country that will contain and reduce costs. Many have suggested that health insurance companies be treated like utilities so that they cannot raise
Stolen Donations I recently moved to the town of Clayton and feel so fortunate to live in such a wonderful place. Our first few weeks of living in Clayton we received a postcard seeking household donations/ clothing for Cancer Research. (It was) perfect timing as we had a bundle of items to donate . . . (we left) our items curbside for collection. (When) we returned
FALL SPECIALS
CLAYTON VALLEY SHELL
$20 off
LUBE, OIL & FILTER
Brake Work
AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE
Includes 5 qts. of Oil, Filter and Inspection.
With Coupon Only.
With Coupon Only. Offers may no t be
With Coupon Only. combined and expire 10/07/20 10
for Men, Women, Kids and Pets. 100’s of Halloween props, decorations, gifts and special effects.
Official smog check and repair station
ASE Certified Technicians including Rubies, Forum, Rasta Imposta and more. We also carry Leg Avenue, Dreamgirl and Secret Wishes Sexy Ladies Costumes.
$10 off
$15 off
SMOG Special
Free shuttle service for major repairs Mechanical, electrical repairs and diagnostics including 30K, 60K, 90K factory maintenance on all European, Imported and domestic vehicles.
$
69 .88
+ cert.
FREE RE-TEST
Clayton Valley Shell
to view our large selection of realistic Animatronic props and Halloween decorations.
Full Service Auto Care
Corner of Clayton Road & Kirker Pass Road
(925) 672-3900
*See store for details
Amir
4383 Clayton Road, Concord 925-672-8099
(Next to Starbucks)
www.ScaryDecorations.com
Jameson
Gary
Alex
Peter
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Upcoming Events FALL PLANT SALE SEPT. 25 The Clayton Valley Garden Club’s fall sale will feature vegetables, tomatoes and perennials in 4-inch pots, plus color bowls and hanging baskets. One-gallon plants are $4. Buy five plants and get a sixth free. The sale is 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, at Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St. Clayton. For more information, call Neal at 672-2624 or visit claytonvalleygardenclub.org. 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.
Coupon campaign to benefit school foundations In response to the statewide funding crisis for schools, the Mt. Diablo Music Education Foundation and the United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation have partnered with S-N-D Digital Coupons for a revolutionary fundraising program. Under the new plan, local merchants can advertise their businesses through the two foundations to the 30,000 families in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. “S-N-D takes their advertisements, in the form of valuable discount coupons, and puts them on the parents’ and students’ cell phones, or their computer if they don’t have a smart phone,” said Dennis Koller, president of S-N-D Digital Coupons. “All they have to do is show the merchant the cell phone
coupon to redeem it. It’s effective, it’s cool and it’s green.” S-N-D is donating 75 percent of proceeds to the two foundations. “Everybody wins,” Koller said. “The merchants win because the ease of using digital coupons, plus the discount coupons they offer, will drive customers to their stores. The families win because they save money using coupons. The school district’s two foundations win because they’re the recipients of the merchants’ advertising dollar. And, most importantly, the children win because music and athletics are not removed from the curriculum.” Merchants can get more information about the program at snddigitalcoupons.com. Details about the foundations are at mdmusicfoundation.org and unitedmtdiabloathletics.org.
Page 7
CERT Drill, from page 1 Work Clothes Medical Scrubs Back to School 1950 Market Street, Suite I, Concord Located behind Park & Shop, 687-9900 next to Fry’s, Mon. - Fri. 10am - 8pm across from BMW. Sat. 10am - 7pm Sun.11am - 5pm
Mention this ad &
Receive a FREE gift with purchase while supplies last
Mike Dunn/Clayton Pioneer
CATHERINE HARRELL OF CLAYTON portrayed a victim trapped under a staircase after a major earthquake at the CERT training drill on Sept. 11. Realistic makeup added drama to the scene.
in shock or in a daze. “I play a victim that is trapped under a staircase and I’m unconscious, unresponsive and out of sight,” said Catherine Harrell of Clayton. She works as a health educator with the county and teaches at the University of Phoenix. Sue Elliott of Clayton also was part of the moulage team of victims. Other Clayton CERT members assisted in the communications center, medical aid, search and rescue, transportation and as evaluators. “CERT teaches people how to pull together and work safely doing things such as assessing whether a building is safe enough to go into to help somebody,” said Gayle Vassar, public information officer for the event and for Walnut Creek. With the alarm sounding, the operations center dispatched search and rescue teams to determine damages and the need for activation of CERT groups. Search and rescue teams radioed the communications center to advise of damages. Operations then dispatched CERT teams to
the various areas to search damaged buildings and an overturned bus, triage victims and help in other ways. Victims were transported to the medical aid station as necessary. “Learning how to treat the immediate killers with medical things such as treating shock, opening airways and stopping bleeding – that’s what CERT is,” said Vassar, who also serves as Walnut Creek’s CERT coordinator. “It’s not first aid, it’s not CPR and not heavy-duty search and rescue. It can take care of 80 percent of the needs following a disaster.” According to Vassar, it was the first time a drill of this magnitude was conducted with many cities in Central Contra Costa County. With the San Bruno pipeline fire fresh in their minds, CERT participants felt the drill was timely because it allowed them to be part of a large-scale, highly organized, multi-pronged response to a major disaster. For more info, visit contracostacert.org, claytoncert.org or cityofconcord.org/police/emergency/cert.htm
oy owb Q C n B Falle orial 6Bpm m 2 , e M 9/26
M the usic on Mou Sun. 10/1 ntai 0, 26p n
Sun.
m
6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440 www.claytonclubsaloon.com Sept. 24, 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Desert Moon Oct. 1, 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Crossman Country Karaoke Wed. nights Open Mic Thur. nights Music Video Happy Hour Mondays 4pm to 8pm Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 10/07/10
2 for the price of 1
Kitchens Bathrooms Concrete Luigi Barberio
Remodeling Specialist
General Contractor
LHIConstruction@astound.net
License #570107
(925) 682-9941 g Youn -8 6 riders d
n L e a r n t o R i d e a m y Hand Services Let me
en Week tarting es s class ow! n
Children, Teens, Adults English, Western & Trail
Scout Sessions/Rider’s Badge
complete your “Honey Do” list.
Approved by Girl Scouts of N. California with required insurance
Ge ne at ral C ontractor Ha ndym Derald an Prices Clearwater Clayton Resident
Sara saved $200 a month
Established 1971
1350 Castle Rock Rd. Walnut Creek
(925)
937-7661
Contracting since 1988
Bonded & Insured Lic. # 524547
Low, low payments
Birthday Parties See website for details
(925) 639-4209
www.castlerockarabians.com
%
As low as
4.49
APR* for 60 months
New / Used / Refinance No payments for 90 days** K Up to 125% financing K Rate applies to NEW cars K Rate applies to USED cars K (2000 or later) Rate applies to REFINANCING K (for non-TCU financed vehicles)
Yes. You can join.®
(800) 877-8328
www.traviscu.org
Clayton Valley: 5442 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 10 Concord: 1257 Willow Pass Road *APR (Annual Percentage Rate) is based on applicant’s credit history and other underwriting factors. This rate reflects the 0.25% discount for automatic payment and 0.75% for being a valued TCU member for more than six months or a new member with TCU checking and monthly direct deposit(s) that total at least $500. For example, at 4.49% APR for 60 months, payments are $18.65 per month per $1,000 financed, based on $0 down on a vehicle that is 10 years old or newer. All loan rates are subject to change daily without notice. Please visit www.traviscu.org for current rates on vehicle loans. TCU vehicle loans are not eligible for refinancing. **The interest on your vehicle loan will continue to accrue from the date your vehicle loan is funded and transferred. Everyone who lives, works, worships or goes to school in Contra Costa county is eligible to join. Certain membership requirements may apply.
Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Installations – Repairs Toilets Faucets Water heaters Garbage disposals Clogged drains
Belfast Plumbing
Follow basic etiquette rules when searching for a home I am a pre-approved buyer ready to buy a house, yet I Q sometimes have a hard time get-
Credit Cards accepted: Visa, MasterCard, Discover
(925) 457-5423 www.belfastplumbing.com License. 906211
ting someone to show me a home. I have a Realtor working with me, but he isn’t always available. Besides, I like to be involved in the process. Recently, I saw a home for sale. I rang the bell, but nobody was home. I looked around the lot and when I was in the backyard, the seller came home and was very upset. They refused to show me the home and said I needed an appointment. What kind of etiquette is this when someone is trying to sell a house? I think they lost out on a good buyer. It sounds like you haven’t been educated by your Realtor about home-buying etiquette. There is proper etiquette for the buyer, seller and both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. Sellers list homes with a real estate agent so they don’t have to interact directly with prospective buyers. It is natural to be excited when you hear about a new listing. Showing up at the front door unannounced, though, isn’t the way to win the seller’s heart. Even if it is not an appointmentonly listing, they probably have been instructed not to let anyone in without an agent. This is a security precaution. If your agent isn’t available to show you the property, he or she should make arrangements with the listing agent to show it to you or see when an open house is scheduled. Agents work on com-
A
Save 15% off All Yard Clean-Up Not valid with any other coupon.
$50 Off
Any Landscaping Service of $300 or more.
Clayton Resident
Not valid with any other coupon.
Monthly/Weekly Lawn & Landscape Maintenance Programs Lawn, Shrub & Garden Care Irrigation Repair Tree Service – ISA Certified Arborist on Staff
September 24, 2010
mission. So if you call the listing agent’s office, the agent on duty won’t be enthusiastic about showing you a listing if you are working with another agent. Another problem for buyers is if their agent isn’t using proper etiquette. A buyer shouldn’t have to keep their agent in line, but the agent can do things to leave a bad feeling toward their client. I recently heard of an agent showing a property who refused to let other agents in and told the other agents that the home was sold when it wasn’t. In another instance, the homeowner came home and found their children’s toys strewn all over the house. This cast the buyers and their agent in a bad light. Listing agent’s opinions can have a big influence on the seller. People like to work with agents who follow protocol. I bought a home nearly two years ago. Prices had really declined, so I got a great deal. I was able to get an FHA loan with little money down and what seemed like a great interest rate. Even though the values have declined more since then, I love my home and can stay a long time. The problem is I would like to refinance to take advantage of the “very” low interest rates of today. I know I don’t have any equity in my home, which one usually needs to refinance. It might even be a little upside down. Is there a solution for me? I am so excited to tell you that there is an option. FHA is offering “streamlined” refi-
Q
A
nance for borrowers who have an FHA loan and are current on their payments. You need to have your loan for at least six months. The great part is borrowers do not need an appraisal, so your loan to value is irrelevant. Buyers can lower their rates significantly. One little wrinkle is borrowers have to buy “up front” mortgage insurance again and they need to set a new impound account so your taxes and insurance are part of your monthly payment. However, borrowers get a portion of their previous “up front” mortgage insurance premium refunded to help offset the new up front mortgage insurance premium. And they get their old or current impound account refunded in about 30 days. I have always rented, though I have a good income and good credit. I know the financial advantages of home ownership, especially now that prices and interest rates are low. My only hesitation is the change in lifestyle. I think it will be a good move for me, but I like to think things through. Can you help? You are a perfect example of “good things come to those who wait.” The truth is that many of the advantages of homeownership have very little to do with investment gains. The best things about owning a home have a lot more to do with personal comfort and satisfaction. I am quoting a list of five of
them from Ron Lieber of the New York Times: 1. Be Your Own Landlord. The bank can only kick you out if you don’t pay; a landlord can be much less dependable and can decide to sell the property or choose to live there themselves. 2. Paying the Principal is Forced Savings. It’s possible that home prices will fall further. It is also possible that your 401(k) will lose value. But over the long haul, both are likely to enjoy modest gains in value. 3. Fixed-Rate Mortgages Never Rise. Eventually, you will pay off your mortgage. With mortgage rates at record lows, people who buy now are locking in real bargains. 4. Good Schools. Familysized rentals are harder to come by in areas with excellent public schools. 5. Spacious Properties in Pleasant Neighborhoods. Sizable homes in attractive communities are almost always owned, not rented. Send question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions, contact her at 672-878 7or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
STUDENT INPUT VARIES With some scores decreasing, especially in chemistry and geometry, the district may need to make adjustments to prove the tests are worthwhile as more than just a break from class time. Because of the lack of consistency in the scores, there is controversy regarding the legitimacy and worth of the STAR particularly among students taking these tests. “I do try on the tests, but I could try harder,” said CV junior Joanna Fan. “I feel like students are only taught things so we can succeed on the STAR test, and the teachers are limited to just that.” Fan wasn’t moved by Principal Gary Swanson’s pretesting pep talk or the added threat of the scores being put on transcripts. “I saw it as something the school wants us to work hard on so it looks good for the school, and the students took the back seat,” she said. “If the administration really wanted to improve our learning, then maybe they should offer more challenging courses.”
On the other hand, CV freshman Samantha Myers wasn’t put off by the testing. “I don’t mind the STAR. It really isn’t hard if you paid attention and did your work,” she said. “I’m more motivated to do well in school now that I’m in high school. I plan to pay attention more and try even harder than I have on previous STAR tests this year.” Considering their STAR duties are complete, seniors have a different view of the tests. “I’m glad I don’t have to take them this year so I can sleep in those days,” said senior Sarah Nelson. “I always tried on the tests; my parents and teachers expected me to, and I knew it gave the school funding. Taking them wasn’t too awful, it was actually kind of a nice break from class.” CV senior Kera Prell also is looking forward to sleeping in on test days but says she always tried her best on previous STAR tests. “It’s not a hard test, so why not try?” Sarah Rosen and Taylor Tovrea are juniors at CVHS and regular ‘Teen Speak contributors.
Q
A
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ANSWERS
Certified Weed & Fire Abatement
FR EE ES TIM AT E S
Yes
You can have it all today! You want a new floor that’s beautiful, long lasting and affordable. Let the experts at Abbey show you how easy it is to get the perfect floor for your lifestyle and your budget,
all at prices that will floor you!
Carpet
Laminate Hardwood
Specials
Specials
Specials
includes removal of old carpet and pads
10 colors to choose from
in-stock and ready for immediate installation
$
1.99 sq.ft.
$.99 sq.ft.
$
2.99 sq.ft. 925-686-9901
Flooring & Interiors 1170 Burnett Ave., Ste. E, Concord Contra Costa Floors Showroom hours: M-F 9-5 Sat 10-4
STAR results, from page 1 percent from the 70 percent of 2009. That followed 59 percent in 2008 and 62 percent in 2007. Suffering the worst drop was geometry, with a 2010 percentage of 65 percent after last year’s 83 percent, 2008’s 67 percent and 2007’s 68 percent. These scores have reverted an otherwise upward trend in ninth-grade results. SCORE ONE FOR SOPHOMORES On the other hand, the class of 2012 continued the sophomore class’s upward trend in most subjects – meeting or surpassing the state’s average percentage in all but chemistry. In Algebra II, they leaped to a 51 percent of proficient or better scores, compared with 22 percent in 2009, 35 percent in 2008 and 31 percent in 2007. The class finally surpassed the state average of 40 percent. In language arts, scores rose from 56 percent in 2009 to 2010’s 61 percent. That’s compared with 52 percent in 2008
and 49 percent in 2007. The science percentage of 59 percent was consistent with performance in language arts, beating out the 58 percent of 2009, the 47 percent of 2008 and the 39 percent of 2007. Last year’s juniors also faired pretty well, matching the results of their 11th-grade predecessors in almost every subject. On the summative mathematics exam, they earned 39 percent, compared with the 42 percent of 2009, 43 percent of 2008 and 46 percent of 2007. In language arts, their percentage is 56 percent, following 58 percent in 2009, 54 percent in 2008 and 49 percent in 2007. This pattern continued in the U.S. history results. The 59 percent matched the 2009 scores, surpassing the 48 percent of 2008 and the 42 percent of 2007. Overall, the class of 2011created a flat trend for the 11thgrade proficiency percentages.
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
Don’t let bullies get the best of you
ROBBIE PARKER DVMS REPORTER Most people remember a time when they were bullied in one form or another. Bullying tends to take place when parents or teachers are not looking. Individuals are sought out in places such as the schoolyard, bus stops, during P.E., in the halls and on the computer. It is times like this, when nobody is looking, that really proves the lack of a bully’s integrity. Although Diablo View Middle School is an outstanding school, bullying definitely exists here. I have been picked on plenty of times. Being shoved, kicked or spoken to in a demeaning manner are all typical bullying scenarios. While many have experienced it, most choose not to share their problems. Some think the bullying will just go away, but it usually doesn’t. Others don’t want to feel weak, and it can be embarrassing to talk to teachers or parents. Unfortunately, if people don’t speak out when being bul-
lied, it won’t stop. Bullies want victims to stay quiet. Beyond the physical and verbal types of bullying, the increase of technology has offered bullies another way to intimidate others. They use instant messaging, online social networks and cell phones to brutalize others. Bullies get a hold of passwords or post negative comments for the whole world to see. In order to protect yourself, do not share passwords or allow others to have your information. Contrary to what most think, it does not matter if you are popular or unpopular. Bullies will pick on anyone who they think is timid or is just the center of attention. Bullies target things you are best at and make them feel insecure. They want you to doubt yourself. It’s unclear why bullies feel the need to pick on others, to intimidate them and make others feel less about themselves. Some bullies have been bullied themselves. They take out aggression on others because they do not feel good about themselves. They are simply acting upon what they have been taught by friends or family. Most of the time, though, bullies are just trying to impress or joke with friends. Sometimes they don’t realize how this makes others feel. But almost always, they are insecure. They pick on peers and point out faults to make themselves feel
safe. Even though bullies may be troubled themselves, there’s a bigger impact on the victim. The longest-lasting impression of a bully is not the bruises on one’s arm; it is the victim’s diminished self-confidence. It leaves a feeling of doubt, making one become self-conscious. Those bullied ask themselves: “Is it true what they said?” “Do I really look fat?” or “Does everybody here actually hate me?” The worst part of bullying is when the victim begins to question himself. Long past the cheap shots, the victims starts to bully themselves. They lose perspective and self-worth. After seeing what makes a person prone to being bullied, I’ve realized confidence is the overall best protection. Showing others self-assurance, using determined body language and
Photo by Ashley McNulty
Diablo View staff members pitch in at the back to school celebration.
The event was catered by Zandonella’s, and the food was served by Principal Patti Bannister and several staff members. Sharon McNulty and Alison Bacigalupo organized the party. Leadership students also helped set up the event, checked in families and baked desserts. ST. AGNES SCHOOL The school is hosting Family Fun Fest on Saturday, Sept. 25. Festivities kick off at 5 p.m. with Mass, followed by a barbecue and pasta dinner, games and raffles. After the sun sets, enjoy a movie under the stars. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. This event is coordinated by the Parents Association for Catholic Education. Proceeds benefit the children of St. Agnes. The school is at 3886 Chestnut Ave., Concord. Dinner tickets are $5 for pasta or $10 for tri-tip or chicken. Download a dinner order form at stagnesconcord.com or call 689-3990 for more information. MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL The Parent Faculty Club has organized a fundraiser with Yogurt Shack on Wednesday, Sept. 29. Customers can mention Mt. Diablo Elementary, and Yogurt Shack will donate 25 percent of the sale to the PFC. The store is at 5438 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord. Hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m. HIGHLANDS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Vendor tables are available for $25 for the fifth annual Holiday Boutique, 2-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 4. Table fees help fund classroom supplies, field trips and student activities. Registration deadline is Oct. 1. Contact Vixen Calica at 415-2032483 or vixenandjames@astound.net. For more information, visit highlandswebsite.com.
English vanced & n r e t d s We ner to A Adult n i g e B to us! Youth me ride with o C
earthquakearabians.com 925-360-7454
3141 Morgan Territory Rd.
High school is a balancing act and I’m teetering on the edge
School News DIABLO VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL The school started off the year with its third annual Back to School BBQ Picnic on Sept. 10. More than 200 students, families and staff enjoyed a beautiful evening of picnicking on the school lawn, along with entertainment from the school’s Jazz Band and DramaMama Productions.
choosing friends who support you are key ways to avoid being bullied. Instead of letting others know you are nervous by averting your eyes, hold your head up high and walk confidently. Know you have great traits and qualities. Your family and friends care about you for a reason. Also, be smart with technology and don’t share personal information. Instead of sitting in the shadows, speak out if someone is bullying you. Let adults know if someone is hurting you. Most of all, do not give bullies what they want. Do not let them make you see yourself as less. Take that into mind and ask yourself: Who’s really the loser now? It’s the bully. Robbie Parker is an eighthgrader at Diablo View. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com
TAYLOR TOVREA TEEN SPEAK Once the initial resistance to the always premature re-immersion into school wanes, students seamlessly pick up where they left off back in June. Things forgotten in the three months of warm summer bliss return to familiarity the instant rubber sole meets gumspeckled floor. How to navigate through the scrambling masses in the cramped halls, which routes to take to escape the tardy bell’s accusatory ring, the weaving through groups in the quad all come rushing back. The human scenery, too, is remembered. The familiar faces of friends smiling when passed in the hall. The studious, bespectacled academics, hurrying off to class upon the first chime of the 10-minute bell, toting an overstuffed book bag on their shoulders. The sneering boys, their vulgar whoops echoing off the walls as they dawdle before class. As expected, all these things met me upon my return to Clayton Valley. Yet this year, there seemed to be something missing, an absence that I couldn’t pin down. Then as I thumbed through last year’s yearbook, it hit me. At the bottom of the page was the picture of a girl I had known from my freshman P.E. class. Sophomore year, I had seen her around school, always recognizable by whatever solid swatch of color she had decided to adorn on her scalp that week and her sticklike physique. In the few weeks I had been back at school, I hadn’t seen a glimpse of her. This realization made me even more conscious to the absence I felt. It was due to faces missing in the crowd that I felt amiss. Curious, I asked around and was shocked by what was rumored: She had dropped out. This choice makes as little
sense to me as purposely failing a class does. As a book-toting, pencil-wielding, self-proclaimed nerd, I find this extreme behavior unimaginable. But one look at Clayton Valley shows there to be more than enough people who can relate. Most days when I head toward the back parking lot to leave campus for my open fifth period, the same boys whom I see messing around in the halls in the morning can be seen across the street, loitering in somebody’s lawn. They yell brazenly to each other, comparing the number of classes they’ve ditched this week, bold in their defiance and announcing their apathy for all to hear. Stowing my thick AP texts and bulging backpack in the back seat, I shake my head in disbelief as I go home to get a head start on my homework before soccer practice. Perhaps my amazement at how someone could care so little is a result of my extremity on the other side of the spectrum. The other faces that were absent from the high school landscape of my memory were hiding out in classrooms and the library, studying. With college just around the corner, pressure is at full force for high school students – especially juniors. Stress and expectations are piled on and students struggle to meet the demands of AP classes, parents and heartless standardized tests. This extreme pressure is in direct contrast with the extreme apathy that is also largely present. This year, more than ever, it seems like the majority of teens in Clayton, and just in general, belong to one of these two extremes – with only a dwindling few falling between them at a happy medium. It’s only been a few weeks and already I’m feeling burnt out, as are the slackers, though in a different sense. I believe it’s crucial that balance be returned to campus, before we all crack under the pressure and the school goes up in flames. Taylor Tovrea is a junior at Clayton Valley High School. She is a regular to the Pioneer. Email her at taylor@claytonpioneer.com
Cruise Adventures Unlimited Serving all cruise lines since 1987
Princess Cruise Sale Cruise sale Sept. 27 - Oct. 1 Reduced Deposit $200 per cabin, Onboard Coupon Booklet valued at $325. All Destinations - Europe, Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Caribbean, Canada/New England, Mexico, Asia Owners Valerie O’Connell (Clayton resident, 30 years) & daughter Colleen O’Connell (925) 935-7447
CST 2074362-40
1610 Locust St., Walnut Creek
www.cruiseadventuresunlimited.com
Reem mood deelliinngg R Deecckkss D Ovveerrhhaannggss O Wiinnd doow wss//D Doooorrss W wnn M Moolld diinngg CCrroow diinngg SSiid m TTrriim
free free estimates estimates
Declan Woods 925.216.2679 Specializing in Bathrooms and Kitchens
General Contractor license# 783799, B, HIC
Noel O’ Meara 925.518.0821
Recommended by “Realtor of the Year” Lynne French
Clayton Resident
Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
A doctor’s lab coat has historical significance On the road to becoming a physician, I experienced many landmark days. There was the day I was accepted to college, the day I passed my medical school entrance exams, the day I was accepted into medical school, the day I first took care of my very own patient and the day that I received my white physician lab coat. For me, the white lab coat rises to the top with regard to personal importance. When I slipped my arms into the sleeves and wrapped the long lapels
Complete Landscape Design & Installation
Lawn & Plant Installation Retaining Walls Drainage Paver Patio & Walkway Low Voltage Lighting
925-672-9955
FREE ESTIMATES
www.nicholslandscape.com Boyce Nichols - Owner
Lic. 542812 Fully Insured
Clayton Resident
Now is the time to buy. ON THE GOLF COURSE at $525,000! This detached 2story Oakhurst C.C. home on the 10th tee has a new granite kitchen, new tile entry, baths & laundry room, vaulted ceilings a huge Master-suite. RV Parking included.
MITCHELL CANYON ESTATES, LARGE LOT! Brand new, 40-year roof. This single-story ranch-style home has beautiful hardwood floors, new granite kitchen, and freshly painted. 12,000 sq ft lot with some views $519,000!
WALK TO TOWN! (5850 Pine Hollow Road)
HORSE SET-UP ONLY $559,000 3.5 Acre ranch with nice 1,700 sq ft home at a Bargain Price! Out of state sellers say SELL IT! 3-Stall barn, riding area, Mt. Diablo Views and an updated oak kitchen with corian counters!
her
Anot
D L O S
This 3 bedroom rancher sell aanshort on a huge lot is c e t Pe Elementary oo! walk to ouryo urs t School and to our Downtown celebrations! Beautiful Hardwood Floors, some new carpet, a recent roof, forced air & Central Air, and freshly painted in and out! All for only $449,000!
around me, I experienced a strong sense of accomplishment. Maybe it was all the new pockets to put the 50 pounds of essential reference materials that I needed as a resident physicianin-training. (I would have killed for an i-Phone back then.) Or maybe it was the blindingly white brilliance. Regardless, I felt like I had arrived. It never entered my mind to question the history of the Great White Coat. Then recently, I read an article about English doctors discarding lab coats and ties because of the clothing’s risk of carrying infections. Just the thought of those hallowed vestments becoming extinct inspired me to search for answers.
A quote from that time period describes the sentiment toward the profession of medicine. “It (the practice of medicine) is the haphazard province of quacks and frauds.” I can hear Marcus Welby gasping. (For young readers, exchange Marcus Welby with “House.”) This sentiment inspired the profession to get its act together and around the mid-19th century, it did. In 1847, the American Medical Association (AMA) was formed and by the early 20th century, the number of medical schools (fondly referred to as “diploma mills”) was dramatically cut and closely regulated. Along with this transformation came the white coat.
THE RODNEY DANGERFIELD
TAKING A SCIENTIFIC
OF PROFESSIONS
APPROACH
I found that up until the 20th century, American physicians didn’t get a lot of respect. At that time, we had a lot of people being trained in the art of medicine. The existence of 400 medical schools in the 19th century made sure of that. However, for the most part, our profession was unregulated. Translation: There were a lot of bad doctors out there and they gave our vocation a very bad name.
Before this time, most physicians wore street clothes when attending patients while some wore beige smocks. Only scientists wore white lab coats. And in the 19th century, scientists were cool. They were like rock stars – admired and respected – and they were brutal when it came to expressing their opinion of physicians. They believed the House of Medicine was a “healing cult” and that the practice of medi-
DR. DAVID BIRDSALL
YOUR HEALTH cine was “quackery.” They did all they could do to discredit my profession, and rightly so. Some docs out there were snake oil peddlers. However, the scientists were professional in their attack and they used the scientific method to discredit the techniques and cures of many physicians. The medical profession needed a major makeover. And in the spirit of “if you can’t beat them, join them,” doctors became scientists. We used, and still use, the scientific method to validate the effectiveness of treatments and cures. This revolutionized the practice of medicine and gave it credibility. So did the white coat, which put us on the same level as scientists. It heralded our arrival into legitimacy. KEEPING IT REAL The white coat also represents goodness, purity, cleanliness and, ironically, given the aforementioned British articles, the absence of infection.
See Health, page 15
For a personal showing, call PETE at 890-6004. KNOWLEDGE
SERVICE
Pete Laurence,
INTEGRITY
RESULTS
Broker, Realtor, GRI
2950 Buskirk Avenue, Ste. 140, Walnut Creek Direct 940-2777
Cell 890-6004
Fax 937-0150
DRE#00344166
Call today for a personal tour & complimentary lunch
(925) 524-5100 Retirement Community
6401 Center Street Clayton CA 94517
www.diamondterrace.net
Opt for an RV vacation to bring your home on the road Early fall is a great time for retirees to “hit the road.” The fact that the kids are back in school means there is less traffic on the roads and in the parks. Whether you own a Class A or Class C motor home, a van conversion, a fifth wheel, a travel trailer, a truck camper or a pop-up camper, the RVing lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular – especially among baby boomers as they roll into retirement. If you have wondered about taking an RV vacation, you should consider renting an RV to start with from a company like CruiseAmerica. Some RV parks also allow you to rent an RV there. There are some good reasons for taking an RV vacation. If you like the great outdoors, you can visit state or national parks and have the best of both worlds because you can enjoy getting back to nature with more creature comforts than
211 Tumbleweed Ct., Clayton Absolutely incredible Gentlemen's Ranch. Flat 1 acre +/-, with Exquisite Home, Remodeled Grand Kitchen, Landscaped Back Yard with Pool, and Well Thought Out Horse Set-Up. Incredible Mt. Diablo Views, Quiet Court Location, City Water. Don't Miss This Dream Come True! REDUCED Now just $984,000
(925) 348-1704 www.CollegeFundsNow.com
PEGGY BIDONDO
TIME
TO
GO
tent camping. Most RVs are well-equipped, so you will likely have a kitchen with a microwave, fridge and stove, along with a TV, beds, living and dining areas, and a bathroom with a shower. There are many choice campgrounds and RV parks. In peak season and tourist areas, you should make reservations. Consider the size and setting of the campsites and check overall campground ratings in campground directories. Also look at
1701 Trail Ride Road, Clayton. Live On Mt. Diablo. Incredible Horse Property In Private Gated Community. Private Trails, Direct Mt. Diablo Trail Access, Club House, New Pool, Paddocks, Hay Storage, Arenas, Updated 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Home, with 4 stall Barn & Pastures and Views Forever! Priced at just $699,000
Kimberly Morucci (925) 437-1650 kmorucci@rockcliff.com www.kimmorucci.com President’s Award
DRE #01356365
proximity to other attractions or landmarks that you want to visit on your RV vacation. Friends of ours have a Class A motor home and are part of a group of 30 couples who regularly take trips together. This spring, they all met at a luxury RV and golf resort near Phoenix. They stayed for a month to take advantage of the baseball spring training days. The resort had pools, whirlpool spas, fitness center, computer center, free Wi-Fi hot spots at the community center, library, mailroom, woodshop, sauna, tennis, shuffleboard, chip and putt, barbecue patio, bistro, laundry and billiards. In addition, you could take classes in wood carving, ceramics, lapidary, silversmithing, stained glass and porcelain painting. The best part is that they only paid $47 per night. It would be less if you are part of
See Travel, page 11
3155 Morgan Territory Road, Clayton. French Country Style Ranch Home on 9 Acres, Long Private Drive, Exceptional Views of Mt. Diablo. REDUCED Now just $1,242,000 Also Available: 1384 Springbrook Rd, Walnut Creek, REDUCED Now just $749,000. 1714 6th Street, Concord, Priced at 825,000.
Clayton resident & ranch property owner.
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 11
Herding cats requires patience – and a wise student ELENA BICKER
PET PALS Someone recently called the Animal Rescue Foundation to inquire about cat training classes. While ARF does not currently offer classes to teach cats tricks, you and your feline friend can have your own fun. Cats generally prefer familiar surroundings with familiar people, but some families report that their cats observe dog training sessions and then exhibit the same behavior
without prompting. As with any training, the first challenge is to motivate the student. Create interest by offering valuable or rare rewards, or even a little friendly competition. Food is often the most enticing and easily acquired reward. For cats, a smudge of something like anchovy paste on the end of a wooden spoon can usually spark curiosity. Favorite toys, praise and playtime can also be used as rewards. Find out what your cat likes and vary it from time to time to keep things fresh. First, teach your cat to
respond to a marker – a sound that “marks” the exact moment your cat performs a desired behavior. Using a word such as “Yes!” or a clicker, make the sound and immediately follow it with a treat. This is called “loading the marker,” and it gives significance to the sound. After several repetitions, your cat should seek the treat following the marker, indicating that he has made a connection between sound and reward. Once he understands that, your cat is ready to learn tricks. Decide what behavior you want your cat to learn. Start sim-
Alberto and Holdsworth are ARF’s Adoption Stars
ALBERTO Alberto is a bright and busy little fella who just can’t wait to start his new life. He’s hoping his new adopters will provide him with a variety of opportunities for both mental and physical exercise. Attending training classes will be a great way for him to bond with them while learning some new skills. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60 percent off one 7-week dog training session.
Patty Flannery Your local neighborhood REALTOR since 1986
Office: 925.975.5255 home & fax: 925.672.0541 email: granyflany@msn.com
Extraordinary Care for your Pet Staffed 24/7
Holdsworth is a charming fellow who loves getting attention. If you are looking for an outgoing, social boy, Holdsworth is your man. The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The
have. In this case, you would need to factor in operating costs, maintenance and fuel. People love RVing because there is no packing or unpacking. When you arrive anywhere, you know where everything is. You have all the comforts of home wherever you go, with no surprises. The bed is always the same, the bathroom is clean and the fridge is stocked with the foods you like. There are no flights to catch, security lines to go through, no lost luggage and no worries about anything being confiscated. An RV vacation may serve as a test drive to gauge your overall interest in the RV lifestyle.
primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arf.net, or call 925.256.1ARF.
There are RVers who spend several weeks per year traveling, while others take off for months. Then there are fulltime RVers whose only home is their RV. Many of these people started out by vacationing in an RV as a way to try out the RV lifestyle. Travel Tip: Frugal RVers travel the shoulder seasons for pre-season discounts. Campgrounds, theme parks and various other attractions routinely have lower prices before the prime tourist season hits. Recently retired, Clayton resident Peggy Bidondo now has the time to indulge her passion in travel planning and writing. Send your questions and column ideas to Peggy Bidondo at timetogo@claytonpioneer.com.
Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 256-1ARF (1273)
Come check us out
FALL SPECIAL
25% off Boarding & Grooming services FREE Pick up & Delivery First time customers Must bring this ad. 1 per customer, exp. 12/31/2010
Josie Van Fleet, Owner and Operator (925) 432-PETS (7387) 671 Willow Pass Road #6, Pittsburg
visit our website at www.PetSuitesInn.com
Don’t Kennel your Pets Let
Peace of Mind Pet Services provide loving, stress-free daily visits in your home.
HOLDSWORTH
Travel, from page 10 an RV membership club. With an RV, you also have the flexibility to change locations on a whim and you can create your own adventure along the way. You can explore the country at your own pace or take off at the last minute for mini-vacations, tailgating events and weekend trips. You can save money by cooking meals in vs. dining out all the time. For a one-time trip, compare the costs of renting a suitable RV to the costs of hotels, airfare, etc. If you are considering regular RV vacations, you may want to purchase an inexpensive, used rig to see if this is the type of vacation you want to
ply with tricks that lure him into a specific action. Use food or a toy at his nose to lead him through a hoop, for example, or onto a chair. Mark when your cat does the desired behavior and reward him heavily the first few times. Repeat the trick 5-10 times to make sure he understands the trick, then end the session before he becomes bored or frustrated. Try to attain an 80 percent success rate before going to the next level. Always start with the previous level as a reminder and never cut out rewards completely. Review the trick once or twice with the lure, then use an empty hand or spoon to see if your cat will still do the trick. Reward him heavily from your free hand the first few successful times. Once he learns the trick, reward him sporadically for best results, doling out amounts from nothing up to the works. Numbers matter more than size, so many small treats are more valuable than one large treat. Short sessions, from three to five minutes, also help keep training fun, exciting and novel. Few people expect to see a trained cat, so don’t get frustrated. Remember to enjoy the sessions. Any trick your cat masters will amaze and amuse your friends and sing your praises as an excellent trainer. Even if tricks aren’t his “thing,” the time you and your cat spend together will strengthen your bond.
DRE#00906625
Call Linda Pastor at
672-9781 for details
Clayton Resident. Licensed. Bonded. Insured. PSI member.
is dog
dog-sitting dog-walking
doggie daycare & beyond
where a dog can be a dog
Customized Care 925-360-5811 Beth Barney, Dana Hills resident
ow
B
n ook
et &g
lots of tummy rubbing & earscratching
H S A G Woming,
a
FR
O D Gro C EE TL at
on
n
yt Cla
do
ow wnt
Cal
lf
s tail e d or
IP
CL
672
Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
Clayton Sports
CV claims silver medal at Reno water polo JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
First-year coach Craig Johnson and his players have set a goal for the Clayton Valley High School boy’s water polo team of winning the Diablo Valley Athletic League championship this fall. The Eagles took a giant leap in preparing for a serious DVAL title run by reaching the finals of the Silver State Shoot-out tournament in Reno. “I was expecting some very solid play from this group,” said Johnson, a former CVHS water polo player. “The seniors have been playing together for four years and are not only teammates but good friends. This helps them play as a team. They were on top of their game both offensively and defensively.” A quartet of seniors did much of the heavy lifting in Reno. Kenny Johnson was the high scorer with 16 goals, seven assists, nine steals and four kicks out drawn. Kevin Adams was close behind Johnson with 14 goals, six steals and five
See Water Polo, page 13
Photo by Scott Anderson
THE CVHS WATER POLO TEAM, bottom row from left, Troy Lakin, McKay Blatter, Tommy Butler, Dalton Klock, Ben Silverberg, Jack Brown and Jack Loflin. Back row, Josh Harmon, Taylor Wingard, Kenny Johnson, James Shaw, Christo Lopez, Derek Anderson and Kevin Adams.
Fall CVHS sports teams mix experience, youth This is the second in a series profiling Clayton Valley High School fall teams. JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Entering its third year back in the Diablo Valley Athletic League, Clayton Valley High School fall sports teams have mixed expectations. The experienced boys water polo team (see separate story) is expecting a top of the league finish with a senior-laden team, while the CVHS Eagle football team is the youngest in the 15year tenure of head coach Herc Pardi. CROSS COUNTRY Cross country head coach Michelle Howisey is excited for the upcoming season. “I’m hoping to see the teams continue to better their finishing place at North Coast Section and
looking forward to the continual improvement by all athletes,” she said. She’d like to see the girls team make a run at College Park, similar to what the school has done in track – where they were co-champions the past two years. Howisey, a Clayton Valley runner as a prep, is in her fourth year heading the cross country teams. In keeping with her goals, she is taking the girls team to the prestigious Mt. Sac Invitational Oct. 23. This weekend, both varsity squads are competing at Stanford. She adds that the DVAL lost a lot of seniors from the league champions this past year on both the boys and girls sides. “There are lots of younger teams in our league,” she noted. League dual meets begin Oct. 6, with the league meet in Martinez Nov. 5 and NCS Nov. 20 in Hayward. Home course for the Eagles is Newhall Park. The coaches’ optimism for
her girls stems from an upper class core of seniors Sarah Litwiller, Brigitte Leblow and Melissa Del Bene, along with juniors Alexandra Tate (defending DVAL meet champion) and Megan Mayhew. Sophomores Kelsey Fagerline and Rachel Preeg are the top newcomers. Sophomore Sara Chavez is also challenging for a varsity spot. On the boys side, her young team will be facing strong harriers from College Park and Northgate. Juniors Ted Hall and Andrew Daley along with soph Kyle Roe are the top returning runners. New to varsity are sophomore Matt McCoy and a trio of freshmen, Ben Linzey, Danny Condon and Kyle Metz. GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Head girls volleyball coach Lisa Hobson, another alumnus of Clayton Valley, says her girls should be one of the top teams in the DVAL this year. “We have some key returners and
many of the other schools graduated a lot of seniors last year,” she reported. Hobson is in her fourth year as varsity head coach after one year with the frosh team. Senior outside hitter Camille Condit returns as a first team All-DVAL performer from last year. She has five senior classmates on the varsity. The experienced seniors returning are Libero Marissa Hobson and middle blockers Kristin Hardesty and Sierra Andrus. Starting this season after seeing limited action a year ago are senior setters Amber Minor and Kristina Duncan and junior outside hitter Andi Lineweaver. New to varsity this year are juniors Christa Rohrbach, Katrina Buhagiar, Vicky Darrow, Rachel Stiller, Kari McHenry and Emily Ly along with sophomore Lauren McCarthy. Northgate and Berean have been battling for the top spot in the DVAL the last few years, but Hobson is hoping her
Eagles can fly past the pack to claim a DVAL crown. League play began this week, with Senior Night against rivals Concord High on Oct. 28 and NCS starting the week of Nov. 10. GIRLS WATER POLO Clayton Valley has a proud heritage in girls water polo, but a young squad will have to carry the Eagles to their fourth consecutive NCS berth this fall. Veteran head coach Dennis Bledsoe has had to replace five graduated seniors. Joining the team are three freshmen – Sara Abele, Kim Anderson and Sara Johnson – and two sophomores up from junior varsity, Michelle Lutz and Paige Reilly. “We will have three frosh, four sophs, four juniors and four seniors on the team this year,” Bledsoe explained. “There is no clear-cut strong and powerful team in DVAL this year. There seems to be a
lot of parity throughout the league and we hope to be in the top three of our league.” Seniors Cherllyn Brock, Jodi Cabral, Gabby Creamer and Allison Hansen and juniors Jenna Stelzner, Logan Shaw, Alexis L’Amoreaux and Cheyenne Colomb need to provide leadership and experience for the Eagles. Sophomores Casey Adams and Taylor Ryle are the balance of the underclassmen on the team. Bledsoe has been coaching at CVHS since the spring of 1966, interrupted by stints at Fresno State and Cal. The girls polo team started in the early ’90s and he’s been in charge since 1995. DVAL matches began this week. The popular alumni game is Oct. 2, and the major Western State Invitational in Modesto is Oct. 15-16. The DVAL tournament is Oct. 2630 and NCS playoffs begin Nov. 3.
where Hardwood, Tile and Stone, Carpet, Laminate
Free shop at home service! •
Free custom baseboards with all hard surface orders! OR
•
Free upgraded pad with any new carpet order!
•
Hardwood
you need it,
when
you need it,
No phone lines or cable access required
Now faster Speeds
on sale now!
(925) 820-8700 Locally owned and operated by 30-year Clayton residents Keith and Mike Baker
20 Regency Dr., Clayton www.diablo.floorstogo.com floorstogodanville@sbcglobal.net
925-260-4119 ext. 2
www.aircloud.com
airCloud Broadband Services Your local Internet Service Provider Servicing Contra Costa County since 2001
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Clayton Sports Name: Derek Anderson Age: 17 Sport: Water Polo Team: CVHS Water Polo At 6-4 Derek Anderson is always considered tall. In goal for the Clayton Valley High School boys water polo team he looks look even taller when he hurls his body and arms out of the water to stop opposing shooters trying to score against the Eagles. This is exactly what Derek did 36 times while the Eagles were facing five opponents and winning the silver medal at the Silver State Shootout tournament in Reno. Like his sen-
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.
Olympic Development Program for two years. No stranger to the water, Anderson spends his summers as a swimmer and for two years also a coach with the Dana Hills Swim Team. He was high point 15-18 swimmer at both the Concord City Swim Championships and 50th annual Contra Costa County Meet in August. He plans to attend Long Beach State next fall.
Athlete Spotlight
ior classmate Kenny Johnson, Anderson is a returning first-team AllDVAL performer. He’s played club polo the past four years for 680 Drivers and been in USA Water Polo’s
Sports Shorts FIRST 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 will be set up as Par 3s. Proceeds will benefit the local community. The committee is looking for golfers, sponsors and volunteers. For more information, visit p2cfoundation.org/friends.aspx.
ERIC LAWSON ON STRIKEFORCE FIGHT CARD OCT. 9 Local mixed martial arts fighter Eric Lawson returns to the ring for the first time since March to battle AKA’s Ron Keslar, a strong wrestler and Gorilla Jiu Jitsu Blue Belt, on Saturday, Oct. 9, in a middleweight bout at HP Pavilion in San Jose. Visit ericlawsonmma.com for more information.
CVHS ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTION OCT. 30 The second Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner will be Saturday, Oct. 30, at Centre
Page 13
Kid’s Fall Leagues
Saturdays at 10:30 am
Ages 5 to 18. Sign up NOW Digital Thunder Glow Bowling 5 BIG DVD SCREENS Ask about High End Digital Private Parties FRI 4 pm - 6 pm (kids), 10 pm - 1 am, Sat 10 pm - 1 am
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.
Freaky Funday on Sundays 5pm to midnight - $6 cover charge gets you $1-games, shoes, hotdogs, sodas & small beers.
Nifty $1.50 Nights for everyone $1.50 games, Mon. thru Thu. 9pm to midnight 925.689.4631 visit: claytonvalleybowl.com
Concord. The event will honor athletes, coaches, teams and community leaders from the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. Tickets are $50 and may be purchased at mdusd.k12.ca.us/claytonvalley (click on Web store) or send a check to CVHS HofF, P.O. Box 203, Clayton CA 94517. For more information, call Dee Billeter at 672-6379 or Bill Nelson at 672-4092.
Clayton Valley Bowl 5300 Clayton Road Concord, CA
5K RUN BENEFITS HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS 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.
CLAYTON VALLEY PONY BASEBALL TRYOUTS IN OCTOBER Tryouts for the Clayton Valley Pony baseball program will be Oct. 2, 3 and 10 at Clayton Valley High School. Players 12-14 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, email Greg Redmond at claytonpony@comcast.net or visit claytonvalleypony.com.
It could be a virus or it could just need a tune-up. Prevent problems caused by viruses and spyware with Regular proactive maintenance.
TOTAL DESKTOP CARE & SERVER WATCH Low cost, fixed fee services that monitor & maintain your network Call Mark 925.672.6029 or to minimize info@netsolutions-ca.com IT problems
Water Polo, from page 12 assists. Goalie Derek Anderson blocked 36 shots, and James Shaw shut down opposition offenses with his strong play in hole defense. He got four steals and chipped in offensively with four assists. The Eagles started tournament play by defeating Granada of Livermore 6-2, then won 6-4 over Bear Creek of Roseville, 31 over Reno and 8-5 over El Camino of Sacramento. In the finale, Kearns was a 10-5 winner. The tourney champs were an all-star team from several Utah high schools. Anderson and Johnson were first-team All-DVAL last year as juniors, while Adams was second team and Jack Loflin, another senior this year, was honorable mention all-league. This year’s Eagle team is missing graduated All-DVAL players Aaron Blatter and Taylor Bredell. Among those looking to fill the void is promising
freshman attacker and utility player Jack Brown, who netted four goals in Reno. Backup goalie Taylor Wingard blocked seven shots, and Shaw assisted the Eagle goalies in Reno with three blocked shots. The Eagles also had scoring from Tommy Butler with five goals, Loflin with four, Dalton Klock three and McKay Blatter, Christo Lopez, Ben Silverberg and Josh Harmon one goal apiece. Silverberg and Butler both nabbed three steals. DVAL league play opened this Wednesday with Northgate, College Park, Concord and Ygnacio Valley high schools joining the Eagles in the water polo setup. Following league play, the DVAL tournament is Oct. 26-28 with the finals Oct. 30, a day before the North Coast Section playoff seeding meeting. Clayton Valley’s other goal this year is to “do well” in NCS
Go All Photo by Scott Anderson, courtesy CVHS Water Polo
KEVIN ADAMS (3) WAS A SECOND-TEAM ALL-DVAL attacker last year and is now part of the senior class which hopes to lead Clayton Valley High to the DVAL league championship and then on to a strong showing in the North Coast Section playoffs this fall. Adams was close behind senior classmate and top scorer Kenny Johnson with 14 goals, with six steals and five assists at Reno.
playoffs. The large group of seniors wants to improve on their 15th playoff seed last year. They won their first-round game before being matched
» age specific programs » a stimulating environment » experienced teachers » trained staff » a low teacher/child ratio Back to School Special » four nutritious meals » music, gym, & Spanish language time included in Get a FREE week of child care & tour of Kidz-Planet each program! Schedule your appointment today!
ONE FREE WEEK!
Mike Rose’s Auto Body Concord (925) 689-1739
Six other locations to serve you
NOW OPEN !
5100 Clayton Rd. F 36, Concord www.kidz- planet.org >< (925) 687-9124
Y o u t h and Adult sports at the Clayton Community Gym
with reigning NCS champions Miramonte, who eliminated the local school enroute to their fifth straight NCS crown.
Clayton resident, Mike Rose, has been in business for over 36 years and has always provided quality repair with excellent customer service!
What we offer:
Out!
Antioch (925) 755-1739
Concord (925) 686-1739
Walnut Creek (925) 210-1739
Brentwood (925) 634-6366
Pittsburg (925) 432-9910
Walnut Creek (925) 979-1739
Visit our website WWW.MAUTOBODY.COM I Car Gold and ASE certified technicians Approved by most major insurance companies
Youth & Adult Futsal (indoor soccer) league Coming Soon Youth Volleyball league Coming Soon Contact us today! Call
(925) 672-4303 or Register online at
www.alloutsportsleague-clayton.com
Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
Clayton Sports Former Eagles make their mark in college sports
DANNY BOESSENECKER
TAYLER NICHOLS
TRAVIS FORD
BRENDIN BROWN
JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
50 of the 54 teams at Clayton Valley during the 2009-10 school year were named a North Coast Section Distinguished Scholastic Team.
five women competing in college. Kara Kohler is the only one of the 80+ Eagle alums who is playing a sport different from that which they competed in at Clayton Valley. The Cal sophomore was a swimmer at CVHS but picked up a new sport, rowing, at Berkeley. She was named Pacific 10 Conference Rowing Newcomer of the Year last spring. Going even one better this summer, she was a member of the USA Under 23 team which won the World U23 Championship in Belarus.
and 48 played three sports during the 2009-10 school year. “In this day of kids being pushed to excel in one sport, our program encourages athletes to play as many sports as they want. Many of our coaches also coach multiple teams,” Middendorf notes
More than 800 students at Clayton Valley High School take part in sports each school year as the Eagles field 24 varsity sports as well as JV and frosh teams. And many find opportunities to play organized sports at the next level—-college. According to statistics compiled by athletic director Pat Middendorf, more than 80 former Eagles have played collegiate sports during the past year. They not only play at two dozen colleges up and down California but have branched out to 16 states across the country. Of the 24 varsity sports at CVHS, 18 of them are represented by former Eagles playing in college. “Many of the students on this list are on full or partial scholarships,” Middendorf says. “We used to tell parents it was a long shot to get a scholarship. Now we say it’s possible if they understand that scholarships are based on academics and sports achievement.” Bolstering that last comment, Middendorf adds that
MAPPING THE MILES The soccer-playing Nichols sisters are the farthest from home. Junior Tayler is at Boston University, while her sister Morgan is a freshman goalie at the University of Vermont. Morgan is the farthest removed, continuing her education in Burlington, Vt., more than 2,500 miles from the high school on Alberta Way. She’s actually not too far from Concord, Vt., (67 miles), Concord, N.H., (117) or Concord, Mass., (167), if she needs a little Concord-grounding. Meanwhile, swimmers Sean Reilly and Brendin Brown are more than 2,400 miles away competing for the University of Hawaii. It’s probably statistically sound that the sports with the most alumni playing in college are football (19), baseball (14) and girl’s soccer (11). The newest sport on the CVHS campus, lacrosse, has nine men and
STRONG COACHING STAFF Middendorf points with pride to not only the accomplishments of the Eagles on the sports field and in the classroom but also to the 92 men and women who coach the athletes. “The thing that sets CV apart from other high schools is that so many of our coaches are alumni. It makes for a real family atmosphere,” she says. “The students and coaches attend each other’s games and are joined by the community and alumni.” Of the school’s 800 athletes, 154 played two sports
FIGHTING THE BOTTOM LINE With the state’s economic crisis threatening high school sports, Clayton Valley raised $10,000 more than College Park in gate fees and $20,000$30,000 more than the any of other four Mt. Diablo Unified School District high schools during the last school year. “Once again, it was the community pitching in,” says Middendorf, chair of the United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation formed last year to save high school sports in MDUSD. CVHS also won the trophy for having the most entrants in the UMDAF 5K race last October, with almost 700 runners. Since high school sports have to be essentially self-sustaining, UMDAF will hold its second annual 5K Walk-Run on Sunday, Oct. 10, at Newhall Park in Concord.
up 4-1 in an eventual 4-2 victory over the Lady Vols. Volpe had a career game in a 5-0 win against Nebraska that same weekend. She set the tone immediately, drilling her first goal of the day into the lower left corner in the ninth minute to give ASU a 1-0 lead. She would score twice more in the second half, first off a rebound in the 65th minute and again in the 69th minute, slotting the ball into the back of the net on a breakaway. It was Volpe’s first-career hat trick, also tying the school record for goals scored in a game. Volpe currently leads the Sun Devils with 15 points, seven goals
and three game-winning goals on the season. She is now seventh in ASU program history with 61 career points, fifth in career goals with 26 and is tied for second in career game-winning goals with 12. This marks Arizona State’s 13th Player of the Week honor all-time and the second of Volpe’s career. She was also Player of the Week during the first week of the 2009 season. Volpe was a key player for the Clayton Valley Eagles under coach Pat Middendorf and also played club soccer for Diablo FC on the MDSL Fury for coach Brian Voltattorni.
Photo courtesy of Arizona State
Clayton Valley grad Karin Volpe (No. 27) was Player of the Week for her performance in the Sun Devil Desert Classic.
Vince Buhagiar bolts out as top freshman tackler in the nation On Sept. 4, Clayton Valley matched teammate Tiuke grad Vince Buhagiar became the Tuipulotu with nine tackles, while first true freshman to no Alabama player start a game at linehad more than seven backer for San Jose tackles. State since 2004. Buhagiar folHe was in the startlowed that up the ing lineup when San next week with Jose went into Bryantanother stellar effort Denny Stadium in when the Spartans Tuscaloosa, Ala., to traveled to play No. meet the defending 11 Wisconsin in front national champion – of 78,469 partisans in Alabama Crimson Madison. They lost Tide. 27-14. Despite the After two weeks, VINCE BUHAGIAR Spartans being on the Buhagiar is the leadshort end of a 48-3 ing tackler nationally score to the No. 1 team in the among freshmen players in the country, the game marked the Football Bowl Subdivision. He first time in seven years a San has 18 tackles after two games Jose State freshman had or and is tied for 63rd nationally in shared top honors for number of total tackles. Vanderbilt safety Jay tackles in a game for either team. Fullam, a redshirt freshman tied Middle linebacker Buhagiar for 89th with 17 tackles, is the
only other freshman listed in the top 100. Nine first-time and five redshirt freshmen were among the 56 San Jose State players to play against Alabama, so Buhagiar is part of a young team that figures to grow together under new coach Mike Macintyre and his staff. In June, Buhagiar graduated CVHS after concluding an outstanding two-sport prep career on the Eagles track and field team. By the end of August, he was attending his first college courses while balancing intense training with the Spartans football team. He was slotted to be on the San Jose offense as a tight end or H-back, but two weeks before the start of the college season, the Concord native was switched to linebacker. Buhagiar was a 2009
CalHiSports.com first-team allstate selection as a linebacker and fullback at Clayton Valley for coach Herc Pardi. He’s the Concord school’s career leader in touchdowns (38) and total points scored (238). He was co-Most Valuable Player of the Diablo Valley Athletic League as he rushed for 1,011 yards, scored 16 touchdowns and caught 16 passes for four more touchdowns. His best offensive game as a senior came in a North Coast Section playoff victory against rival Concord High in which he rushed 22 times for 194 yards and scored five touchdowns. He was second on the Eagles in total tackles with 92 and two interceptions. He concluded his high school career playing in the 2009 Sacramento vs. East Bay All-Star game.
SEAN REILLY
CVHS alumni in college sports for the 2009-’10 and 2010-’11 school years: Baseball Cal Berkeley: Vince Bruno, Darrel Matthews UC Davis: Andrew Lassen University of Washington: Cody Stephens Long Beach State: John Bekakis Indiana University Southeast: Brandon Weller MidAmerica Nazarene (Kansas): Matt Arruda Menlo College: Chris Mazza Diablo Valley College: Mike Banks, Rick Dunley Los Medanos College: Sam Falefine, Mitchell Wilhite, Wesley Darrow, Elliot Fuller Men’s basketball University of Nevada: Adam Carp Whittier College: Drew Menez Colorado State: John Del Bene Men’s golf Chico State: Bobby Bucey Men’s lacrosse UC Santa Barbara: Conrad Carlson Chico State: Shaun Duckworth Cal Poly San Luis Obispo: Jake Looney Cal State Fullerton: Pat Schwarz San Jose State: Dominic Garaventa Sonoma State: Cory Callahan, Tom Kohlmeyer Diablo Valley College: Chris Morrisey, Travis Neal
CVHS grad Volpe named Pac-10 Player of the Week Arizona State senior forward Karin Volpe, a Clayton Valley High grad, was Pac-10 Women’s Soccer Player of the Week for the week of Sept. 7-13, commissioner Larry Scott announced. Volpe was selected Most Valuable Player of the Sun Devil Desert Classic following a twowin weekend for No. 19 ASU, where she accounted for four goals, including her first-career hat trick. Against Tennessee, the former Eagle finished off a fourgoal second-half scoring flurry by the Sun Devils that came in the span of 12:04, with her goal coming in the 84th minute to put ASU
MORGAN NICHOLS
Valenzuela, Pablo Santacruz, Jonathon Carlson Los Medanos College: Chase Elsberry, Zach Bangert Men’s swimming University of Hawaii: Brendin Brown, Sean Reilly Softball Cal Berkeley: La Risa Jones University of Oregon: Kelsey Chambers, Lindsey Chambers St. John’s University (N.Y.): Amber Curry University of Minnesota Moorhead: Amanda Moore Women’s basketball Our Lady of the Lake (Texas): Vernessa Roberts Diablo Valley College: Taylor Allen, Hannah Dehghan Los Medanos College: Kaitlin Markwith Women’s crew Cal Berkeley: Kara Kohler Women’s golf Sonoma State: Kiley Laramore
Men’s track/cross country Sacramento State: Nathanael Litwiller, Colin Szehner
Women’s soccer Cal Berkeley: Samantha Walker Arizona State: Karin Volpe Boston University: Tayler Nichols University of Vermont: Morgan Nichols San Francisco State: Amanda Smith Chico State: Lauren Vance Cal State East Bay: Kristen Elms, Jenna Quinonnez Dominican University: Christine Coleman Holy Names University: Melissa Grimmond, Kestrel Colomb
Men’s soccer University of San Francisco: Felix Luna, Gustavo Ponce Diablo Valley College: Alex Duenas
Women’s volleyball University of Nevada/Las Vegas: Kelsey Keeler Holy Names University: Erica Norris
Football San Jose State: Vince Buhagiar Colorado State: Travis Ford University of Oregon: Nick Cole Pittsburg State (Kansas): Josh Nunu Northern Arizona University: Danny Roper Bowling Green State: Robert Lorenzi Graceland University (Iowa): Richard Martinez, Abilene Christian, Terrell Woodall Mt. San Antonio College: Diego Ochoa Mesa College: Tino Abon Laney College: Keith Franklin Diablo Valley College: Michael Adan, Robbie Adan, Mike Darr, Danny
Women’s water polo San Jose State: Natalie Jennings Diablo Valley College: Julie Lapper
Men’s water polo University of Redlands: Danny Boessenecker
Women’s lacrosse UCLA: Casey Leedom UC Davis: Andrea Araujo Chico State: Lauren Vance University of Oregon: Celeste Piper Liberty University (Va.): Audra Menez If you have additional information on CVHS alumni in college sports, email sports@claytonpioneer.com.
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Mission in Zambia a lesson in humility tools so they could have a “hand up” rather than a “hand out.” And, their faces were filled with hope.
SHAWN ROBINSON Special to the Pioneer
A little more than a year ago, Clayton Community Church embarked on an adventure that would change our lives forever. The congregation was challenged to raise money to build wells in Zambia, Africa, for the poorest of poor. One of the biggest problems in this part of the world is the inability to get clean water. The number of children who die in our world every day from preventable causes related to poverty is equivalent to a hundred 747 airliners filled to capacity crashing with no survivors every 24 hours. Ninety days after a well is dug in an African village, 70 percent of disease is eradicated – just by being able to get clean water. By spring, the children, youth and adults of the church had raised enough funds to build two wells in Zambia. World Vision International, the organization that sponsors this effort, then invited leaders from the church to see first-hand the difference the efforts had made. HEART-BREAKING POVERTY After more than 30 hours on planes and in airports, the volunteers arrived in Zambia on Aug. 3. We went to remote villages where the only water source was a two-mile walk to a dirty pond that was shared by animals. In the village of Hamaundu, this was the only water source for more than 300 people. Bob Pierce, founder of World
Volunteers from Clayton Community Church stand with the local residents of a remote village in Zambia. The group was part of a mission to help provide fresh water to the villagers. ZWASH stands for Zambia Water and Sanitation Hygiene. Pastor Shawn Robinson is in front holding the Clayton Pioneer.
Vision, once said, “Let my heart be broken by the things that break the heart of God.” Our hearts were broken as we saw such overwhelming poverty and how much of this suffering could be alleviated with just a few resources and effort. Just to give some perspective, if you earn more than $25,000 year, you have more than 93 percent of the people in the world. If you make more than $50,000 per year, you have more than 99 percent of people. The people we met in Zambia are not lacking determination, skill or intelligence, but they are lacking opportunity. We were able to see first-hand that we could provide opportunity that would literally save lives. On the last few days of the trip, we went to some villages
Growing older can be done tastefully
KELLY FERRO
SENIOR MOMENTS Taste is one of our most robust senses. It helps us recognize when food is good or bad for us. Unlike with the sense of smell, normal aging does not greatly affect our sense of taste. However, loss of taste can cause a loss of appetite in the elderly. This can lead to weight loss, poor nutrition, weakened immunity and even death. Normal taste occurs when tiny molecules released by chewing or the digestion of food stimulate sensory cells in the mouth and throat. These taste cells send messages through three specialized nerves to the brain, where specific tastes are identified. The taste cells are clustered within the taste buds of the tongue and roof of the mouth as well as the lining of the throat. Many of the small bumps that can be seen on the tip of the tongue contain taste buds. At birth, we have about 10,000 taste buds scattered on the back and tip of the tongue. When we reach 50, we may start to lose taste buds. A distorted sense of taste can be a serious risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, stroke and other illnesses that require sticking to a specific diet. When taste is impaired, a person may
change his or her eating habits. Some people may eat too little and lose weight, while other may eat too much and gain weight. Loss of taste can cause us to eat too much sugar or salt to make food taste better. This can be a problem for people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. In severe cases, loss of taste can lead to depression. When an older person has a problem with taste, it is often temporary and minor. True taste disorders are uncommon. When a problem with taste exists, it is often caused by medications, disease, some cancer treatments or injury. Many older people believe there is nothing they can do about their weakened sense of taste. Depending on the cause of the problem, a doctor may be able to suggest ways to regain the sense of taste or to cope with the loss of taste. In many cases, the loss of taste turns out to be a loss of smell – which is closely related. When people are unable to smell something, tasting it is often difficult if not impossible. If you think you have a problem with your sense of taste, consult your doctor or dentist for possible treatment. Taking medications, having an infection, smoking or even dental issues such as gum disease can promote the loss of taste. A change in medications, stopping smoking or clearing up an infection could bring back the sense of taste. Enjoying food as we age is important for health reasons as well as just for the pure pleasure. Kelly Ferro is a marketing director for Aegis Living. Send comments or questions to kelly.ferro@aegisliving.com
where World Vision had been at work for several years. The people looked healthy because they had received clean water from freshly dug wells that would last 20-30 years. They had crops in some of the driest and remote places on earth because they had been trained and given simple things like seeds and farming
MAKING A DIFFERENCE The story is told of a man who was walking along a beach where hundreds of star fish had washed up the night before and were dying. As he witnessed this overwhelming and unfortunate situation, he also saw a small boy walking along the beach throwing one star fish at a time back into the water. With smugness, he said to the boy, “What do you think you’re doing? You can’t save all these star fish. What difference will tossing a few back into the water possibly make?” Without slowing down, the little boy threw another star fish into the water and simply replied: “It made a difference to that one.” Clayton Community Church is determined to be a part of the solution to help the poor “one person at a time.” Every $35 given to this cause literally saves a
Church News BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON All are invited to an inspiring talk, musical presentation and an evening of fellowship on Friday, Oct. 1. The subject of the talk is “Need of the Age: The Evolution of the Human Society.” The presenters are Maya and Jeff Bohnhoff, 2005 Pegasus Award winners as best performers. Maya is a published writer of fiction and non-fiction. Jeff is a support engineer for Apple and produces music CDs. They have been performing together for about 30 years. They write and record original music as well as recording and performing parody music at science fiction conventions in the United States and Europe. The program starts at 7:30 p.m. with a period of interfaith devotions, followed by the Bohnhoffs’ presentation at the Toloui home in Clayton. For more information and directions, call 672-6686.
Health, from page 10 To many in the profession, it also represents a symbolic barrier between the patient and physician – allowing us to be objective and detached. This is also one of the reasons why some doctors have abandoned its use. While we need to be objective, we still need to connect with our patients. To others, the coat is a constant reminder of our duties as physicians as spelled out in the Hippocratic Oath. When I wear a white coat, I also found it magnificent at hiding wrinkled clothing and coffee stains. Thus, you can see that the Great White Coat is steeped in history and significance. However, its time may have
passed and soon it will be relegated to a museum – where it will hang next to the nurse’s “flying nun” hat. I guess change is inevitable, but I hope that the essence of the coat will live on in future generations of physicians. I’ll see you down the road at John Muir. I will be the one in the wrinkled green smock. Dr. Birdsall is the Medical Director of the Emergency Department and Chief of Staff of John Muir Hospital in Concord. He lives in Walnut Creek with his wife, Dr. Marian Birdsall, and two children. Please email him at David.Birdsall_md@johnmuirhealth.com
life. A child can be sponsored for $36 a month, ensuring an education, food and clothing to become a healthy and responsible adult. The church is making plans to sponsor children through World Vision as well as be a part of the solution to provide clean drinking water, schools and hospitals for Hamaundu. I often think about what I want my life to be about for the time I have left on this planet. Yes, there will be opportunities to enjoy life and be a part of worthwhile adventures here in our community. But I also want my life to be about something bigger – something that will save lives around the world. I think I found it in a small village in Africa.
Laminate
Flooring INSTALLED!
starting at only $4.99
per sq. ft. Stop by the store or call for details 1051 Detroit Avenue Concord 925-681-4747
Robinson is the pastor at Clayton Community Church. For more information, call 673-9060 or visit claytoncc.com. Learn more about World Vision International at wvi.org.
The first step in reaching your goals is reaching the person who can help you achieve them. Put your dreams more within reach. Call me today at (925) 685-4523. Mureleen Benton, CFP®, Financial Advisor 5356 Clayton Rd., Suite 211 Concord, CA 94521 (925) 685-4523 Mureleen.M.Benton@ampf.com CA License #0692378
Our Advisors. Your Dreams. MORE WITHIN REACHTM Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2010 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
Service honors, from page 1 proud to work for Clayton. I’m having a lot of fun and can’t think of anywhere else I’d want to be right now.” Concord Police officer, Samuel Figueroa credited his family for their
Photos by Mike Dunn
CONCORD POLICE CHIEF DAVE LIVINGSTON with CPD Officer of the Year Samuel Figueroa.
FBI Ranking,
support. “One of the biggest and most important things in any police officer’s life is having a family that backs him . . . I’m out there 150 percent, working 150 percent all the time,” said Figuroa. “Without the support of my family, my wife and beautiful children, I wouldn’t be able to do that. She hears my ranting and ravings and she’s been a tremendous support for me. If I didn’t have that support at home, I wouldn’t be able to what I do on the street. That’s the truth for any law enforcement,” Figueroa told an attentive audience. David Manzeck, an engineer/paramedic with Contra Costa Fire Protection District Station 84 in Pittsburg, can be called a real hero for his dramatic rescue of Janet Hogan last April from the churning waters of the Walnut Creek flood channel. He was nominated for the award by 400 of his peers at CCFPD. “To be put up for firefighter of the year – nothing is greater than that for me.
from page 1
ENGINEER/PARAMEDIC DAVID MANZECK was honored by John Ross, chief of operations for Contra Costa Fire Protection District for his heroism in the rescue of a woman from flood waters last March.
It’s very humbling,” Manzeck said. The 1992 Clayton Valley High grad has been out on disability as a result of a shoulder injury sustained in the rescue. He is expected to return to full duty on
Oct. 15. This past summer, Manzeck and his wife welcomed their third child, a baby boy named Aiden. Manzeck is the son of John and Linda Manzeck of Clayton.
stabbing of Ray Casso in the post office in March of 2009 – two rapes, two robberies and two aggravated assaults. This translates to one violent crime per every 1,619 people. Placing ahead of Clayton were the upscale communities of Hillsborough and Los Altos. Not included in the rankings were property crimes (burglary, thefts and arson). When compared against the other cities in the 10,000 – 99,000 population range, with 179 property crimes, Clayton tied with Moraga for 14th. The least safe city in the category was Compton with 1,457 violent crimes. With a population of 93,872, this is one violent crime for every 64.4 people.
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. SEPT. 29 FOR THE OCT. 8 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
CLAYTON EVENTS
FUNDRAISERS
Saturdays through October Farmers Market
Through Sept. 30 Collection of Locally Grown Produce
8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, Diablo Street between Main and Center, downtown Clayton. No market Oct. 2. pcfma.com or 800-9493276.
Sept. 25 Nellie’s Closet Grand Opening
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.
Canine Couture Fashion Show at 10 a.m. Free door prizes and doggie treats, plus a new collection of doggie clothing for purchase. Rodie’s, 8863 Marsh Creek Road. 672-4600.
Oct. 3 “California Gold”
Oct. 1-3 Oktoberfest
The California Symphony presents a tribute to the musicians of the Works Progress Administration. 4 p.m., Hofmann Theater, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek, 943-SHOW or lesherartscenter.org.
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. 6720240.
Oct. 10 Music at the Mountain Festival Celebrating the wealth of Clayton-based musical talent, featuring Jim Hudak and the Symptoms, the Relyks with Butch Crossman, Maggie's Farm and Plan-B. Free admission, with free barbecue. 26 p.m., Clayton Club, 6096 Main St. 683-1808.
EVENTS/ENTERTAINMENT
Oct. 8 “A Symphony of Flavors” Sponsored by the Clayton Valley High School Music Boosters. Featuring music from the school’s bands and orchestra, plus hors d’oeuvres, desserts and no-host bar. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $15. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Reservation forms at claytonbands.org or linminmailbox-music@yahoo.com.
Oct. 9 Rotary Goes Hollywood Dinner/Auction Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise. $50, or $450 for table of 10. 6-10 p.m., Walnut Creek Civic Arts Center, 111 N. Wiget Lane. rotaryauction@gmail.com, claytonvalleyrotary.org or 566-8166.
Oct. 9 Light the Night Walk 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.
The Community Presbyterian Church of Pittsburg presents Jane Anderson’s play about two couples confronting their belief systems. Not recommended for children under 13. Wine tasting at 7 p.m.; performance at 8 p.m. $10. 200 East Leland Rd., Pittsburg. 439-PLAY.
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.
“Sleuth” The Willows presents a mystery thriller with plenty of plot twists and turns. $22-$32. Campbell Theatre, 626 Ward St., Martinez. 798-1300 or willowstheatre.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. $19$45. Center Repertory Company, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Centerrep.org or 943-SHOW.
Oct. 22-Nov. 20 “Dracula” Experience the gothic classic as you’ve never seen it, presented by Center Repertory. $36-$42. 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. centerrep.org or 943-SHOW.
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. $25. Center Repertory. 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. centerrep.org or 943SHOW.
Oct. 12, 26 Mt. Diablo Unified School District 7:30 p.m., 1936 Carlotta Dr., Concord. mdusd.org.
Clayton Business and Community Association 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.
Clayton Valley Garden Club 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.
Concord Stompers Square Dance Club 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.
Contra Costa Chess Club Oct. 10 Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation 5K Run & Walk
Diablo Theatre Company presents the adventures of the little redheaded girl. $17-$48. Lesher Center for the Arts, 601 Civic Dr., Walnut Lisa Luttinger, Jim Campbell, Creek. lesherartscenter.org or call Barbara Halperin and Bill 943-7469. Schneider star in “The Quality of Life.” Oct. 4-Nov. 7
7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
CLUBS
Sept. 24-25 “The Quality of Life”
Through Oct. 2 “Annie”
Oct. 5, 19 Clayton City Council
AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. 673-0659 or claytonlibrary.org.
Tuesdays through Dec. 7 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. Drop in 11 a.m. Tuesdays.
Wednesdays Book Buddies Reading to 4- to 7-year-olds. 3-4 p.m.
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 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
Thursdays through Nov. 4 Picture Book Time
Meets 6:30-9 p.m. third Tuesday of the month. Bancroft Elementary School, 2700 Parish Dr., Walnut Creek. 689-1155 or dvmug.org.
Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. Drop in 11 a.m. Thursdays.
East Bay Prospectors Club
Sept. 28-Oct. 27 Guess the Pumpkin’s Weight
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.
The person with the closest guess without going over wins the pumpkin. For children through age 12.
Knights Of Columbus, Concord Council 6038
Oct. 5 - Nov. 9 Paws to Read
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.
Kids read aloud to screened and attentive dogs.Tuesdays, 4-4:30 and 5-5:30. Call the library for more information.
Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise
Oct. 15-17 Fall Book Sale Pre-owned book sale to benefit the Library Foundation. 4-7 p.m. Oct. 15 for members only; memberships available at the door. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 16, noon-4 p.m. Oct. 17.
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.
MEETINGS Sept. 28; Oct. 12, 26 Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
Meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Includes breakfast and a speaker. 566-8166 or claytonvalleyrotary.org.
Scrabble Club Meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. All ages and skill levels welcome. $3 fee. Call Mike at 639-1987 or scrabble-assoc.com.
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 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.
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Club News CLAYTON CANYON PONY CLUB
Katelyn Grubich and Brittany Craker of the Clayton Canyon Pony Club, at left, teamed with Julia Bergamashchi and Madelyn Reaves at the Woodside competition.
Two members of the local affiliate of the U.S. Pony Club earned a silver medal at the 2010 Championships West Aug. 6-15 at the Horse Park in Woodside. This competition is held every three years at various West Coast venues. This year, 72 Pony Clubs from the western United States and Europe competed in dressage, eventing, quiz, show jumping, games, polocrosse and tetrathlon. Clayton Canyon Pony Club members Katelyn Grubich and Brittany Craker qualified to participate in the championships, riding as part of a four-member eventing team with two riders from other Bay Area Pony Clubs. Eventing is a three-day competition which incorporates dressage, show jumping and cross country jumping. Their team, “Run, Run, Here We Come,” finished in second place in the total combined score of riding and horse care/management. They received a special award for double clear rounds, for time and fault penalties, in
show jumping and cross country riding. Grubich and Craker also received special recognition at the closing ceremonies for helping a fellow team member who had fallen from her horse during show jumping warm up. For more information about the club, call Lynda Ehrich at 671-9405 or Vicki Anderson at 381-7929. Or visit the club at the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Rider’s Association in Clayton. CLAYTON VALLEY SUNRISE ROTARY Rotary Goes Hollywood is the theme of the club’s annual Dinner and Auction on Saturday, Oct. 9. The event is the club’s major fundraiser for the year and provides support for the group’s charitable activities: the Rotary Foundation and its “End Polio Now” campaign, a cancer detection facility in San Felipe, Mexico, as well as local charities such as the We Care Center, the AAUW TechTrek program, the
Clayton Library, Markham Arboretum and many other programs. In addition, the Clayton Valley Sunrise Rotary provides dictionaries to local third graders and scholarships for high school students to attend Rotary leadership camps, Venture and Royale. Tickets are $50, with a table of 10 for $450. The evening includes a gourmet supper followed by a silent and live auction. The event will be 6-10 p.m. at the Walnut Creek Civic Arts Center, 110 N. Wiget Lane. Registration information as well as opportunities for sponsorships are available at claytonvalleyrotary.org or email rotaryauction@gmail.com. SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF DIABLO VISTA Nicole Adler, community relations director at Garaventa Enterprises, is the club president for 2010-’11. She will be leading the organization in “improving the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world,” which is the mission of the organization. Sue Manning, a long-time resident of Clayton and retired vice president of Old Republic Title Co., served as president in 2009-’10. During her term, the
Nicole Adler, left, is the incoming president of Soroptimist of Diablo Vista. Outgoing president Sue Manning is at right.
CLAYTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY/CLAYTON VALLEY GARDEN CLUB On Sept. 13-14, the two clubs partnered with 14 Chevron and Bank of the West employees to begin preparation of the first of three phases of the museum garden project. Chevron and Bank of the West volunteers signed up to help during the Week of Caring through the Volunteer Center of the East Bay’s helpnow.org. In 2009, a landscape plan was drafted for the Clayton Museum garden area. Unfortunately, costs were higher than expected and funds were not
Volunteers got together to work on the Clayton Museum’s new garden project. Top row from left, Sue Lakin, Debbie Eistetter, Chris Cloud, Mary Spryer, Maria Magat and Linda Cruz. Bottom row from left, Alex Goiriz, Cathy Burgess, Elaine Petkovich, Christine Heinz, Vickie Babcock, Pochi Huang, Steve Lane and Dick Ellis.
available to proceed. However, museum and garden club volunteers have found ways to get help with plant donations and through the Volunteer Center of the East Bay. Students from Concord and Clayton visit the Clayton Museum for hands-on field trips each year. The museum is planning to expand its educational programs and incorporate the garden into the program. The first phase beginning this fall is the American Native Garden. The goal is to display plants used by the native people of the Mt. Diablo area currently known as the Clayton Valley. Plants will be labeled and their uses identified. There will be a vernal spring area to display marshy plants. The second phase, beginning next spring, will be the Native Plant Garden. The plan is to create an attractive display of various California native plants, pure species or hybrids developed for gardens to encourage visitors to consider planting natives in their gardens and to place emphasis on plants that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The third phase will be the Streetscape Garden, which will present a traditional garden strip along the sidewalk to preserve the historical atmosphere of downtown Clayton. The Garden Club has donated plants and funding for plant materials, including a Black Oak which was planted during this first phase. Also planted in September were soap root bulbs, an elderberry, two manzanitas, a coffeeberry, milkweed and more.
Page 17 Quality Quality & & Honesty Honesty in in all all we we do. do.
organization held the successful A 2-bit Auction at Diamond Terrace. THE CLAYTON BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Next up for the CBCA is one of its big fundraisers, the annual Oktoberfest Celebration. The event is 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 3. A carnival will begin 5-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 1, and continue through the weekend. The CBCA welcomes back the popular band The Internationals, who will perform Saturday and Sunday in the Biergarten. There will be more than 20 artisan booths with a wide variety of arts and crafts, along with a large food court and German beer. The CBCA needs many volunteers to help pour beer, wine and hard cider on Saturday and Sunday. If you would like to help, sign up at claytoncbca.org. Funds from events like this assist schools, clubs and groups with local activities and projects. The club also recently held a successful Rib Cook-Off and Membership Drive. And, the group was recognized at the final Concert in the Grove for its strong support and funding of the popular, free Saturday night concert series. For more information about CBCA, call 672-2272.
The
Venetian Plaster Specialist Specializing in
Tuscany/Southern European Architecture
President President Pete Pete Wiesendanger Wiesendanger
Remodel Mouldings Kitchens Baths Interior Exterior Commercial Residential Licensed Decorator Longtime Clayton Resident In business since 1988
Licensed Bonded Insured CCL #679198
Call (925)
CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB The club supports many community projects during the year, including providing school supplies to Silverwood Elementary School’s students and staff. Principal Nancy Villa attended the Sept. 14 meeting to speak about the school and accept the donated school supplies.
285-6400
for a
Free Estimate
The UPS Store Independently owned and operated
We shred your past to protect your future. Stop by and try our new document shredding service. Notary, Packaging, Fax and Copy Services are available too!
Clayton/Concord Location:
Store Hours M-F 8-7 Sat 9-5
Vineyard Shopping Center
5100 Clayton Road Concord, CA 94523 ph: 925-689-6245
“Let Us
Light Up Your
Life” For all your Electrical Needs.
Recess an Lights & F Specials
www.burkinelectric.net
tails Call for de
All work done by owner
Serving Contra Costa since 1991 More than 30 years experience Licensed l Lic. # C10-631523
Call Jim
925.212.3339
Law Offices of
Richard A. Littorno Legal Services:
Since 1979
Probate and Trust Administration and Litigation Living Trusts and Wills Medi-Cal & VA Planning Elder Abuse Litigation Conservatorships Tax Planning & Preparation General Business Transactions Asset Protection Strategies
Clayton Office:
Pittsburg Office:
6160 Center St., Suite D Clayton, CA 94517 Phone: (925) 672-6463 Richard@LittornoLaw.com
2211 Railroad Ave. Pittsburg, CA 94565 Phone: (925) 432-4211 www.LittornoLaw.com
HAWAII WORLD For reservations or information call
(925) 672-9840 Clayton Station Shopping Ctr. 5439 Clayton Rd., Ste. F
Ocean view studio 2 FREE nights Kids 12 & under eat FREE Avis mid-size car 7 nights from $1,113
Discover the Unhurried Way of Life Hawaii World land price is per person, doable occupancy, subject to availability and change for travel to 12/17/10. Kids eat free with paying adult.
Experience the difference!
Luxury Tour Experts CST #2033054-40
Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
Theatre
Make some time tomorrow to catch ‘Annie’ LOU FANCHER Clayton Pioneer
I N S P I R E D R E A L E S TAT E www.3699OakCreekCt.com
Nine girls are the shining tiara crowning Diablo Theatre Company’s “Annie,” playing through Oct. 2 in Walnut Creek. Traditionally thought of as a sugar-sweet vehicle for the title character, the family musical is, in all truth, made or unmade by the young orphans anchoring the cast. In Diablo Theatre’s production, they infuse the stage with energy, sing with startling clarity, master their roles with confidence and inspire the sharpest choreography to boot. The well-worn story, of an orphan girl invited to spend a two-week staycation with a wealthy New York businessman, is all chin-up optimism. Annie smiles for at least 90 percent of every waking moment, while hanging on to a partial locket and the unrelenting hope her parents will return with the locket’s missing half. Presidents and evil persuaders, the horrible Miss Hannigan, even a large chorus of homeless New Yorkers: nothing can dissuade Annie from thinking, and singing, “Tomorrow, tomorrow, there’s always tomorrow!” Her unstoppable cheerfulness captures the heart of her benefactor, who, in the end, adopts Annie and promises a bright future for her vivacious orphan friends.
Fabulous Northgate estate on private 1 acre beautifully landscaped lot. 6 bedrooms 3 1/2 bath with downstairs master suite. Offered at 1,399,900
www.OharaCourt.com ng ideri Cons nsizing? Dow
MARIANNA SCOTT stars in the title role with DC Scarpelli as Daddy Warbucks and Gertie as Sandy in the Diablo Theatre Company production of “Annie” at the Lesher Theatre through Oct. 2.
Beautiful single family detached home in Clayton! Hardwood Floors, single level, vaulted ceilings, large yard, sparkling clean, light and bright! Offered at $395,000
www.237ElPuebloPlace.com D
SOL
Fabulous 5bedroom 3full bath with fully remodeled gourmet kitchen, large pool, amazing yards and views. 10++ Offered at $714,000
Thank you Dana Hills for another terrific garage sale. See you next year!
The saccharine scenario, especially in light of today’s chin-down economic turmoil, is either a happy escape or nauseating, depending on one’s personal situation. There’s bittersweet irony in the musical’s bold predictions of building a robust America, saving the show from becoming an irrelevant, fluffy piece of theater. Strong performances by many in the cast strike a resounding, let’s-focuson-what-matters note – exactly the same message making headlines in 2010. DC Scarpelli was heroic and gentle in both voice and physicality. An actor with easy grace – and just the right instincts for where to place a hand, or how long an expression should linger on his face – his Oliver Warbucks was dead on. Tielle Baker, as Grace Farrell, uses her commanding voice and compact body to express both power and zest. It’s difficult to imagine the production without her drive, especially in the second act, when a radio and a Christmas Eve scene lagged until kick-started back into action by her reappearance. Marianne Scott’s Annie is buoyant. Mid-song, Scott’s entire body glows and the voice coming from her 11-year-old mouth is astonishing in tone and consistency. Laurie Strawn sketches a comic Miss Hannigan, which delights the youngest audience members. A darker shading would give more tooth to the part and is definitely within the experienced Strawn’s range. The orchestra, led by Cheryl Yee Glass, makes a very good show even better. The instrumentation is well-balanced and the only thing lacking is a bow for the conductor and her musicians at the end of the production. Renee DeWeese’s choreography was particularly effective in the orphanage scenes. Leaping across beds, slamming buckets, pounding down to their knees and back up again – DeWeese caught the full-flung thrill of being a young girl. A little of this same approach would have helped the adult chorus, who,
Mayor, from page 1 Dansie, a Concord High grad, is learning to play the guitar and enjoys fishing. Our two corporals, Rich Enea and Rich McEachin, have been with the city for more than six years and almost five years, respectively. Enea, another CVHS
grad, has received recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Drivers the past few years for his high number of DUI arrests. He is an avid A’s fan. McEachin, an Antioch High grad, is the current president of the Clayton Police Officers Association. He enjoys
particularly in the second act, stood and sang too often. Diablo Theatre Company’s costumes and sets consistently give the audience a visual treat. From texture to design to color, the production value is superb.
“Annie” plays through Oct. 2 at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Tickets are $17-$48. For more information, visit lesherartscenter.org or call 9437469.
Murder, mayhem and mindgames make ‘Sleuth’ a real thrill
Photo credit, David Faustina
SHAUN CARROLL AND ERIC INMAN star in the Willows Theatre production of Sleuth, Oct. 4-Nov. 7 at the Campbell Theatre in Martinez. Few mystery thrillers present the audience with more twists and turns of plot, more pure posers and more moments of gamesmanship between the hunter and the hunted than Anthony Shaffer’s “Sleuth.” The Willows Theatre presents the Tony Award-winning drama Oct. 4-Nov. 7 in Martinez. The Willows production is directed by Richard Elliott and features Eric Inman (seen in “Hair” and “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown”) and Shaun Carroll (“Little Shop of Horrors”). “Sleuth” has become famous not only for its superbly intricate story, but for the way it engages the audience in the mind-games
the protagonists play. It won’t reveal to much to tell you that rich and famous Andrew Wyke, thriller writer to the gentry, invites young businessman Milo Tindle to his mansion for a drink. There is something urgent to discuss: Milo’s affair with Andrew’s wife. Andrew suggests an unusual plan that is both dangerous and criminal. Milo’s reaction starts a deadly chain of events that leaves bodies on the carpet, blood on the stairs and detectives at the door.
fantasy football and is a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Allen White has been a police officer in Clayton for more than 10 years. White is one of our certified bicycle officers and is a great golfer. Officer Jason Shaw has been with us for almost four years. He is one of our certified motorcycle officers, along with Dansie. Shaw is a big NASCAR fan. Officer Shanna Decoite, our only sworn female police officer, has been with us for more than 2½ years. Besides being a good shooter, Decoite plays the bagpipes with the Sheriff ’s Office bagpipe team. (I’m guessing you didn’t know the Sheriff ’s Office had a bagpipe team.) Officer Darren Billington, another one of our certified bicycle officers, has been with the department for a little more than two years. Billington plays and coaches soccer. Officer Allan Pike has been with the PD for 20 months. Pike is restoring a 1948 Plymouth as a police vehicle. And last but not least is Officer Todd Sorrell. The Berean Christian grad has been serving in Clayton for 18 months and enjoys boating. The Clayton Police Department also includes eight Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS); two reserve officers, Russ Eddy and Eleanor Eby; and three Police Explorers, Whitney McEachin, Trey McEachin and Katie Hill.
Making the police department run smoothly and effectively are Lynn Christ and Wendy Roden as the administrative staff. Besides having a great police department, Clayton is also home to many local law enforcement officers from other agencies. Almost a dozen Concord police officers live in Clayton. I know of at least one Walnut Creek officer, with a police dog. There are several San Francisco PD officers and San Francisco sheriff deputies. We have a number of residents who work for the Contra Costa County Sheriff ’s Department, including the new chief of police in Danville. I recently learned that we have four or five BART officers. I also hear that we may have someone from Pleasant Hill’s PD and Oakland’s PD. If all these local law enforcement officers weren’t enough, we also have a number of federal agents – at least three FBI agents, at least one ATF agent and at least one special agent with the Office of the Inspector General. I also think we have at least one special agent for the IRS. We are fortunate to have a great police department and so many law enforcement neighbors. The rest of us can help keep our crime rate low by being vigilant, law-abiding citizens.
The Campbell Theatre is at 626 Ward St., Martinez. Tickets are $22-$32. For more information, call 798-1300 or visit willowstheatre.org.
You can reach the mayor at hank_stratford@yahoo.com.
September 24, 2010
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 19
Poaching technique not so hard to learn LINDA WYNER
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
Poaching an egg in a pan of simmering water is an art, but it is not an impossible one. Pans with removable metal inserts and silicone egg poachers abound and while they do the trick in preparing a perfectly shaped orb, it’s still possible to overcook the yolk, undercook the white and make too-dense an egg for most recipes. If you recently watched the finale of MasterChef, Gordon Ramsey’s latest TV venture crowning America’s top home chef, you saw two semifinalists poach with different techniques. One ended up with a perfectly poached egg (firm, well-shaped white encasing a yolk that still runs when cut) while the other contestant ran short of time and presented an undercooked, most unsightly looking egg. Start with boiling water (at least 2” to 3”) in a sauté pan.
Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar (this helps coagulate the egg white) and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Break a very fresh egg into a small bowl or cup. Hold the bowl so it is just touching the water and slide the egg into the water. Alternatively, create a whirlpool in simmering water by briskly stirring in one direction. Slide the egg from a bowl into the center of the whirlpool. This technique tends to congeal the egg white into a tighter round. In both cases, cook for 4 to 5 minutes to fully set the whites while the yolk is firm (not hard) to the touch. You can always trim the egg white for a prettier presentation. Once you’ve poached your eggs, you can make a traditional Eggs Benedict. Food historians still don’t agree on the origins of this dish. One version has a society maven, Mrs. LeGrand Benedict, imploring the Delmonico’s Restaurant chef to create a new luncheon dish just for her. In the other version, a Waldorf Hotel chef watched a hungover Wall Street broker assemble a cut muffin, poached
egg, bacon and Hollandaise sauce in the morning buffet line. These days, the dish using bacon (and sometimes a slice of tomato) is more often referred to as Eggs Blackstone. Poached eggs star in other preparations, too. A traditional dish from the Burgundy region of France substitutes simmering water for simmering wine. Served with a marvelous reduction of red wine, stock and vegetables, it is a sublime entrée that requires a little extra preparation time. OEUFS EN MEURETTE 8 fresh eggs 1 bottle (750 ml) fruity red wine 2 cups brown veal or chicken stock 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 carrot, thinly sliced 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced 1 garlic clove, crushed a bouquet garni of thyme sprigs, parsley stems, and a bay leaf 1/2 tsp black peppercorns salt and pepper 2 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp flour Bring the wine and stock to a
Civic Arts program helps students ‘make their mark’ LOU FANCHER Clayton Pioneer
If more people followed in the footsteps of Clayton’s Rosie Sachtschale, California voters wouldn’t need to pass a plastic bag ban. Sachtschale, a 15-year oldsophomore at Clayton Valley High School, makes art with plarn. Blending plastic and yarn, it’s the latest rage in the recyclables-in-art-and-life movement. Crafters use plarn to knit and crotchet everything from hats to rugs to fine wall tapestries. Sachtschale was inspired to explore alternative materials and a variety of media during “Make Your Mark,” an innovative Walnut Creek Civic Arts Education program. Each fall, 16 students are selected through a portfolio review to study with working artists. They learn dif-
ferent approaches and techniques, visit professional art studios and take field trips to
Rosie Sachtschale knits a purse from yellow caution tape. The young artist uses recyclables and ‘things most people throw away’ to create her pieces.
Book Review
Apes rule the house in intriguing tale
SUNNY SOLOMON FOR THE BOOKS For all the Sara Gruen fans who have been patiently waiting for her first novel since “Water for Elephants,” wait no longer. “Ape House” is here and Gruen has outdone herself in her fourth novel. It’s not hard to pin down exactly why this lively, fresh, funny, politically correct and sometimes over the edge novel is going to be at least as popular as
“Water for Elephants.” The cast of characters includes Isabel Duncan, a scientist who works in the field of primate linguistics and has dedicated her life to the bonobo great apes. They are found only in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. But because of their propensity for language and other, considerably earthier forms of interaction, they are a favorite source of study around the world. John Thigpen, a journalist sent to interview Duncan, meets the apes and write a piece about the laboratory performing the studies. There’s also Cat Douglas, John’s fellow journalist who is intent on scooping every tidbit John uncovers; Amanda Thigpen, John’s novelist wife who has just lost her agent and all
See Book, page 20
museums and art-related businesses. “I got to try some kinds of art I’d never done before,” Sachtschale says. “I’m in the arts academy (at CVHS), but they don’t have the full spectrum there.” The young artist was especially intrigued by plaster mold sculpting. “I did my feet,” she says. “It came out cool. The detail showed up and I was able to shape and polish the air bubbles away.” Sculptor Barry Baldwin led the class on a tour of his Oakland studio, a trip that had an obvious impact on Sachtschale. “He had a lot of cool stuff – mostly figures. There was a dancer sculpture there. He got all the detail of the hair and her shoes.” Out of her experience in the Make Your Mark program, Sachtschale developed a style and a vision for the art she plans to pursue. “What I mainly do now is recyclables in fiber art,” she says. “I thought it would be cool to use things most people just throw away. I craft purses out of pop tabs. I’m working on a corset now.” As for obtaining supplies, Sachtschale points to the community aspect of her art. “My relatives, when they send packages, put in tabs. They sent me three, one-gallon bags recently. Everyone knows I’m doing this, so I get them from anyone who knows me.” With enough pop tabs and plarn, Sachtschale could open her own gallery and solve part of the country’s landfill crisis at the same time. But what she most wants to do is spend another year in the program. “This year, so far, there are only about three or four people signed up,” she says. “We’re hoping to spread the word and get enrollment up,” adds her mother, Ellen, a coordinator and instructor for the once-a-week, eight month art and design class. The deadline for applications has been extended and need-based scholarships are available. High school age students interested in art and design can learn more at walnut-creek.org/cae/classes/ youth/youth_art.asp.
boil and poach the eggs for 3 to 4 minutes. Immerse the eggs into cold water and refrigerate until sauce is completed. Add the vegetables to the poaching liquid and boil the sauce until it is reduced by half. Discard the bouquet garni. Mix butter and flour together into a paste. Drop bit by bit into the reduced sauce, whisking until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Strain and reserve. Reheat the eggs in hot water for one minute. Serve atop sautéed bread rounds or toast and pour some of the sauce over the eggs for service. (Serves 8.) A variation, oeufs in Mersault, is accomplished by substituting the red wine with a white wine such as Chardonnay and adding 2 to 3 tablespoons of crème fraiche or heavy cream to the sauce before serving. I like to serve a poached egg atop a salad, where it becomes part of the dressing. It’s easy to prepare and makes a great brunch dish. SALAD LYONNAISE 1 slice French or Italian bread, cubed 1 Tbsp butter 2 strips bacon 1 tsp chopped shallots 1 poached egg 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp wine vinegar ½ tsp Dijon mustard Salt and pepper to taste 2 cups frisee or mixed lettuces Melt butter in a small sauté pan and add bread cubes. Toast over medium high heat; remove and reserve. Sauté the bacon until nicely browned. Drain on paper towels then slice into lardons (strips).
Set aside. Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, mustard and salt and pepper to taste. Arrange lettuces on a plate, then scatter the croutons and bacon strips over the top. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and top with the poached egg. To eat, pierce the egg with your fork and spread the yolk around the salad. (Serves 1)
A word of caution: consuming undercooked eggs is not advised for pregnant women, young children, the elderly or persons with a compromised immune system. 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
& Party Supplies (925) 363-3403 (925) 457-9543
www.kidschoicejumpers.com Jumpers - Combos - Slides. All sizes available 950 Detroit Ave. Unit 11, Concord, CA 94518 Family owned and operated Clayton Resident
License #5009243 Insured
family . i e z z a M service e n h o t , r s a r b yea ised the a For 56 r y l l a tinu has con
With interest rates at an all-time low, now is a good time to buy.
Realtors, tired of franchise fees? Contact us today for an interview!
Short Sales, REO’s, Foreclosures or Loan Pre-Qualification? Call Matt for a free Consultation.
Matt Mazzei, Jr. Broker/Owner
Rental property available. Thinking about listing? Call us first! Matt Mazzei, Sr.
925-693-0757 (Main) 925-766-6745 (Direct)
925-693-0752 (Fax) mazzeirealty@yahoo.com
6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton
mazzeirealty.net
Sales Agent
Clayton residents since 1959 DRE# 01881269 DRE# 01879806
Page 20
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
September 24, 2010
Take a cue from Down Under for extra blooms of Correa for gardeners craving a lighter-colored flower. Ivory Bells has a shiny green leaf. Keep your eyes peeled for Ivory Bells as it can be difficult to find at local nurseries. There’s also a selection of Correa to consider for hillsides with part to mostly shade. Wyn’s Wonder is wonderful in Clayton Valley landscapes. Variegated foliage of green with yellow margins will add illumination in shady areas. The flower is a rosypink. All of the Correa blooms attract hummingbirds. And since they bloom throughout the cold months, they are an extended source of nectar for the hummingbirds.
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL Clayton Valley landscapes and gardens are experiencing an invasion from Down Under, as Australian native shrubs and perennials find their way from the nurseries to local yards. These showy, hardy shrubs thrive in the Clayton Valley climate. They perform great in the clay soil, love the hot days and hardly need fertilizer. As a bonus, Australian plants have an opposite blooming season, thus complementing the shrubs used in our landscapes regularly. They are just now entering their flower season and will keep blooming through late winter. WONDER NO MORE The shrub referred to as an Australian fuchsia is fantastic on any Clayton Valley hill or slope. This evergreen has a dramatic shape, sprawling to 6 feet wide and 3 feet tall. It tolerates full sun. When researching this plant family, use the botanical name of Correa. Dusky Bells is a selection with matte green foliage and apricotpink flowers that dangle. When used on a slope or hillside, the flowers are much more obvious. This plant’s beauty is wasted on flat land. Ivory Bells is another selection
GREVILLEA NOELLII
MORE GOOD NEWS FOR HUMMINGBIRDS
Grevillea is a huge family of Australian native shrubs already widely used in local landscapes. Grevillea Noellii is the most common Grevillea in this community. Noellii is a larger growing shrub, reaching 4-5 feet tall and wide. Clusters of pink and white flowers appear in the earliest days of spring. Hummingbirds
can’t get enough of this evergreen. Be careful when deciding on placement of the Noellii, because the foliage is spiky and uncomfortable to touch. Prune at your own risk, so plan ahead and place where Noellii can be all that it can be. The Wooly Grevillea families are much friendlier to install and tend because they have soft foliage. Coastal Gem is fabulous in Clayton Valley landscapes. Don’t let the name fool you; it thrives in full sun. Unique-shaped ivory and dark pink blooms appear in fall and last through late winter. Coastal Gem can reach 18 inches tall and 5-6 feet wide, so plant in the right place. Jade Mound is another Wooly Grevillea whose heavy show of pink flowers beckons hummingbirds all fall long. Once established, all of the Grevillea require little summer water. PAWING AROUND Kangaroo Paw plants obviously come from Australia. These grasslike perennials with tall stalks of red, orange, pink or yellow fuzzy paw-shaped blossoms are no strangers to Clayton Valley landscapes and containers. When caring for these plants, remember not to overwater. Cut back faded blooms to promote new flower stalks. Avoid feeding with a fertilizer containing a high middle number and apply snail and slug bait during the early days of spring. Emu shrubs are hard to find. If you happen to spot one at a nursery and you have a decent section of full-sun soil available, you should plant it. This shrub blooms almost every day. Tube-shaped flowers in bright pink to red are in heavy
Grand Opening September 25
Fashion Show 10 a.m. at
Rodie’s
Free Door Prizes and Doggie Treats
HOT BUYS on Dog Food Premium Edge, 35 lbs.
$
27.99
Choose from
Thru Oct. 7
Lamb Chicken Skin & & Rice & Rice Coat
Canidae All Life Stages, 35 lbs.
AvoDerm Chicken & Rice, 30 lbs. & AvoDerm Lite, 28 lbs.
Fromm Family Dog & Cat Food
$
39.99
$
29.99
Thru Oct. 7
$
off 5 any large sized bag
(925) 672-4600
Thru Oct. 7
Thru Oct. 7
8863 Marsh Creek Rd. in Clayton
abundance all the year through. You can expect this evergreen to reach 3 feet tall and 5 feet wide. The wood of this shrub makes the plant look loose and sloppy, not so good if you like a formal garden. But for those who want a long-blooming, unique, easy to care for shrub, the Emu bush is the one. Australian Tea Trees are another commonly found shrub in Clayton Valley nurseries. These hardy evergreens are perfect on a hill or slope because they look great from far away.
When you first install this shrub, try not to let it dry out. If it doesn’t get adequate water to establish itself, it may just croak. Once established, the tea trees need very little water. Australian plants are everywhere. They fit right into local landscapes, providing hardy foliage and long blooms. October is an excellent time to install one of these plants, so get out there and do it.
entation about Australian native plants at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 13. The Clayton Valley Garden Club meeting is in the dining room at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Visitors are welcome.
Troy McGregor of Garden Native Nursery will give a pres-
gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
Book, from page 19 hopes of publishing her second novel; and Dr. Peter Benton, Isabel’s fiancé, her immediate boss at the laboratory and a man who bears scrutiny. The list goes on. There is a mother-in-law from hell, a laboratory-hating animal rights group, a reality show producer, script writers, make-over artists, tabloid journalists, disreputable animal labs, sweet ladies of the night, drug dealers and a pit bull named Booger. The plot centers around the violent kidnapping of the bonobo apes and the ensuing search for their whereabouts. The identity and intent of the kidnappers involves enough treachery, deceit and cruelty to both animals and humans to satisfy any ambitious writer, and Gruen’s storytelling skills are more than up to the task. The characters are generally sympathetic and we care about them as much as we do the apes, who become identifiable by their
names and behavior. The book deals seriously with the intense scientific study currently taking place in the field of human and primate communication. A subcategory is the field of bonobo to bonobo communication and, by the end of the novel, Gruen has revealed its often embarrassing and off-putting parallels in the world of human to human interaction. The novel opens with the meeting of journalist and researcher. Gruen wastes no time in bonding them both. A remarkable connection also takes place between the journalist and the bonobos: “He’d looked into their eyes and recognized without a shadow of a doubt that sentient, intelligent beings were looking back. … and it changed his comprehension of the world in such a profound way he could not yet articulate it.” Shortly after John returns to his publisher, his story is wickedly stolen by Cat and news of the
Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at
abduction of the bonobos hits the wires. The kidnapping is really the beginning of two stories, Isabel’s and John’s. Gruen reveals to the reader the often serpentine world of animal research, with its funding and scientific underpinnings not necessarily on the same track. Making use of satire and some very funny, slapstick scenes, she exposes pop culture with the same intensity. The novel, for all its topical range, comes top a satisfying conclusion and the reader is left to wonder if Gruen has exposed us to the world of the ingenious bonobo great apes or turned the tables and exposed those humans watching from the other side of the glass. Whichever (or both), Gruen has written an entertaining and informative novel not to be missed. Sunny Solomon is the “Book Lady” for the Clayton Community Library Book Club. She holds an MA in English and Creative Writing from San Francisco State University. Her poetry and prose has been published in literary journals and magazines. You can each her at memorie3@yahoo.com.