IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
April 29, 2011
925.672.0500
CV charter school drive sparks interest TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Backers tout local control, better funding A push to convert Clayton Valley High School to a charter
school is gaining momentum as teachers and parents look for a way out of the crisis in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. More than 150 parents crowded into the Clayton Library last week to learn more about converting CVHS from a
MDUSD school to a charter school. To convert, CVHS would withdraw from the district and become a self-governing body with full authority to hire and fire teachers, control spending and determine curriculum at the school level.
Teachers Pat Middendorf and Neil McChesney are spearheading the movement, which arises out of frustrations with poor academic performance, inconsistent discipline, epidemic tardiness and low morale. “When you compare Clayton
Valley’s Academic Performance Index (API) with other schools in the state with similar socio/economic statistics, we are in the lowest 10 percent of those schools,” said Middendorf. “We’re seeing a ‘brain drain,’ with some of the best students
leaving for private schools.” A charter school brings all decision-making to the local level, says Middendorf. “We only have to consider the 1,800 students that we are responsible for. See Charter School, page 8
Travel from the tropics to Asia on garden tour NICOLE HACKETT Specia,l to the Pioneer
Meandering pathways, rock features, poolscapes, entertaining areas, pergolas, flowering trees, shrubs and perennials await guests on the Clayton Valley Garden Tour. Sponsored by the Clayton Historical Society, the self-guided tour runs 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 6 and 7. Asian fusion is one of the themes of Martin and Diane Andrew’s garden. This newer garden incorporates old plantings with new installations, creating a balanced environment. Various colored stones generate
DAVE SHUEY
MAYOR’S CORNER ‘Chartering’ a better course I am my father! We all have that moment where we realize we have become our parent, usually when we are telling our children how it was much harder in our childhood. “I used to walk to school five miles everyday, uphill both ways in the snow.” Well, just like many of you in
Proposed fire assessment vote delayed a month
LOU FANCHER Clayton Pioneer
TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
See Assessment, page 13
See Garden Tour, page 6
From bows to biscotti, Art and Wine covers the bases
See Mayor, page 13
A measure to rescue fire protection services in East County, including the rural areas of Clayton, will likely go to the voters in June, says fire chief Hugh Henderson. The East County Fire Protection District Benefit Assessment District needs approval by a simple majority of voters in the district. An annual assessment of $93 per parcel will raise about $4 million,
visual motion and contrast with the plants. Lavender walkways lead to sitting vignettes, where the rest of the yard can be enjoyed. When people love their yard, it becomes a garden. Dee and Art Turrin created theirs with love and built it with their own hands. Part-sun perennials make landscape borders, and the twig arbor hallway to the rear garden is perfect for wandering. Kathy and Bill Gray’s garden has made the most of every available inch. This yard is in a new development, and issues
Tamara Steiner/Clayton PIoneer
THIS CORNER IN LINDA PINDER’S CHAPARRAL SPRINGS home, showcases ideas for a small cottage garden. Pinder’s home is one of six on the Clayton Historical Society annual Garden Tour May 6 and 7.
Clayton is gearing up for the 16th annual Art & Wine Festival, a two-day party filled with music, food, art, beer, wine, games and happy crowds. This year, the festival gets underway at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 30. With more than 125 art and craft exhibits, visitors will find both returning favorites and newcomers to explore. Co-chairs John Garrett and Chance Gernhardt take on the leading roles this year. The
See Art & Wine, page 6
Surprise! Moms learn as they go DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer
A search of Amazon.com for parenting books brings 37,698 choices in paperbacks alone. Advice ranges from what one exasperated father described as the “Gulag diet” in Heidi Murkoff ’s “What to Expect” books for expectant and new mothers (sugar is bad, bran is
What’s Inside
best) to Vicki Iovine’s more laidback suggestion in the “Girlfriends Guide” series for moms to not “stand when you can sit, don’t sit when you can lie down, and don’t stay awake when you can sleep.” Despite the plethora of advice, every mother interviewed for this article – regardless of age, income level or number of children – was surprised by
something about the experience of parenting. None of the moms felt they always knew what was coming next while raising their children: whether it was the intense joy when she first laid eyes on her new baby or the exhaustion from waiting up for her 16-year-old to come home on prom night (only to have the brat sail on by with nary a wave before sharing her
stories with 2,743 Facebook friends). Barbara Goldsmith of Clayton is the mother of four grown children, two older boys followed by twin, now 19-yearold daughters. She remembers her surprise at her ability to love each child individually with such intensity, without taking away
See Moms, page 9
Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Directory of Advertisers . . . .5
Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Food for Thought . . . . . . .16
Safety Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . .17
School News . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Community Calendar . . . .14
Letters to the Editor . . . . . .5
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Concert Schedule . . . . . . . .2
Obiturary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Take a Hike . . . . . . . . . . . .16
CHARLIE, THE BEAGLE, has his eye on a tasty biscotti from Millie’s Boutique Biscotti, owned by Concord resident Sherry Guthrie, one of 125 vendors that will be at the annual CBCA Art & Wine Festival April 30-May 1.
CV lacrosse teams play for Clough family
Photo by Mike Dunn
CAMERON “CAMMY” BACIGALUPO was decked out in school colors last week as the Clayton Valley High School boys and girls lacrosse teams “battled” each other in a benefit game for teammate Joey Clough and his family who lost their Clayton home in a fire on March 30. See story on Page 10.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
April 29, 2011
Around Town Claytonians make Clayton cleaner 1
Locks of Love gets Grace’s braids Grace Dausses, 5, had been growing her hair out for about two years when she saw a story in the Pioneer about a young girl who donated her hair to Locks of Love, an organization that makes wigs for children suffering from hair loss. Inspired, she headed for the beauty shop only to find that her tresses fell short of the 10 inches required for donation. So, she waited for a few months until her hair reached the required length, then set up her appointment with Wendy Trimble from Permanent Solution in Clayton who donated her time to the cause.
2
Clayton is spit-shined and ready for the annual Art and Wine Festival thanks to the more than 120 Claytonians that turned out for the annual Clayton Cleans Up day on April 16. Scouts, families, friends, neighbors and pooches gathered at Clayton’s City Hall, grabbed gloves and giant orange garbage bags and collected trash on trails, in creeks, 4
parks and neighborhoods. Kids blew up the gloves, making oddlooking balloon volleyballs with little fingers and batted them back and forth in the courtyard after a barbeque lunch. The most unusual item found was small black dog. CCU crew member, Linda Pinder called Animal Services, got the phone number of the owner and the small black dog went home after polishing off a hot dog or two. Clayton PD Officer Daren Billington gave the kids a police car “tour.” When he opened the trunk, one youngster piped up “Ohhh, dynamite.” Seizing on the teachable moment, Billington said, “No, not dynamite. It’s a flare.” And the kids got a lesson in highway emergencies. Kaitlyn Dunn, Brownie Troop #33065, said the clean up was “really fun” and she was happy “helping nature survive.” The Troop earned their Earth Day patch by participating in the clean up. Clayton CERT was on hand to help with trash pickup and talk about disaster preparedness. The annual event is Clayton’s celebration
GRACE DAUSSES gets her Locks of Love haircut from Wendy Trimble of Permanent Solution
Grace loves her new haircut. “It’s so easy now, she says. “And it doesn’t hurt anymore to brush it.” For more information about Locks of Love, go to www.locksoflove.org.
Pioneer reaches the Pinnacles
3
of Earth Day and welcoming rite of spring. The event is sponsored by the city of Clayton, the Clayton Pioneer and Allied Waste with generous donations from Peet’s Coffee, Navlet’s Nursery, Safeway, Gernhardt Poductions and Fresh & Easy. Photos: 1. Clayton PD officer Daren Billington; 2. Volunteers Debbie Mullins and Gregg Manning ran the bag pickup; 3. BBQ-meisters chefs Howard Geller, Steve Pierce and Fred Repetto; Brownies from Troop 33065- Back: Alexander Leong, Kaitlyn Dunn, Emma Leong, Front: Caela Hetherton and Lexi Cichursk.
KATHY O’TOOLE, HERB YONGE, DOROTHY BRADT AND SUE ELLIOTT, all of Clayton, were caught reading their Clayton Pioneers high up in Pinnacles National Monument. The group joined 19 other members of the CC Hills Hiking Club for a 3-day hiking trip to the park for great hikes, good weather and beautiful views.
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5 bedrooms + office & a loft, 3 baths, 4,003sf & 3 car garage! 1st floor bedroom & bath. Gourmet kitchen. Huge prof. landscaped .25 acre lot! $725,000
521 Hamburg Cir .................$575,000 . . . .2081 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .4/13/11 903 Deer Pl..........................$657,750 . . . .2542 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .4/13/11 5711 Verna Way ..................$340,000 . . . .1338 . . . . .3/1 . . . . . . . .4/8/11
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April 29, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Around Town Clayton man serves in Afghanistan
1ST LT DANIEL MURPHY
1st Lt Daniel Murphy, son of Patty and Jim Murphy is currently serving in Afghanistan with the 649th Engineer Company of Chico, CA. Daniel is a 2004 graduate of Clayton Valley High School. After high school, at attended Sacramento State University, where he graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Arts in Government. He hopes to be home for Christmas.
Library Book Sale brings readers and writers together While digging through the hundreds of books at the Library Foundation semi used book sale, a beautiful rose caught the eye of Rachel Ettinger, a Cal Poly student and aspiring writer. Ettinger was intrigued with the book “Miss Delacourt Speaks Her Mind,” a historical romance, especially when she found out the author was Heidi Ashworth, a Clayton writer. Ettinger was doubly excited to find out that Ashworth’s second novel, “Miss Delacourt Has Her Day” was released in February and is available on Amazon.com and quickly connected with Ashworth via email. The novels are historical, set in London during the Regency period and have found HEIDI an enthusias-
s t r e c Con The Grov in
Saturdays
At the Gazebo in The Grove Set up chairs and blankets on the lawn after 4 p.m.
May 7
Cover2Cover Dance band spans five decades of music
May 21
Sun Kings A trip down memory lane with Beatles favorites
June 4
Hot Rods Rock and roll from the 50s and 60s
June 18 A BEAUTIFUL COVER COMPELLED RACHEL ETTINGER to pick up this romance novel at the Clayton Library Foundation Used Book Sale on April 16. She was delighted to discover it was written by Clayton author Heidi Ashworth. Rachel’s mother, Diane Ettinger looks on.
Unofficial Rolling Stones They look like the original, strut like the original and rock like the original
July 2
Diamond Dave Vocals from classic Sinatra to HipHop
July 16
The Chicago Tribute Authority
July 30
The Michael Paul Band
Sing and dance to Chicago’s greatest hits
tic audience in the genre. Ashworth lives in Clayton with her family and has recently opened “Dunhaven Place,” in the TJ Maxx Center on Clayton Road. In keeping with her love of historical details, the store carries collectibles, antiques, furniture and home décor items. The semi-annual book sale
grossed the Library Foundation over $8,700 and took 80 volunteers, including Boy Scouts from Troop 484, to set up and run the sale. Funds are used to buy books and supplies for the library. For more information, see www.claytonlibrary.org.
Five-piece southern/country rock band
Aug. 13
Vocal-ease and The Boogie Men Retro band covers big band and swing to Doo-Wop and Motown
Aug. 27
A Swingin’ Evening with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and the Rat Pack Orchestra
September 10 - East Bay Mudd 10-piece dance ban. Powerful horn section
ASHWORTH
Sponsored by the city of Clayton, CBCA and Allied Waste Services
Local Food To Go Support your local businesses and restaurants. Takeout or dine in before or after the concert.
Adder, Iraq. That’s an old Russian built Iraqi tank behind me.” SGM Waterhouse is with the National Guard unit out of Benicia and arrived in Iraq just before Christmas. He will soon be home on a mid-tour leave. “I look forward to seeing my family and having a meal and a cold beverage at Ed’s Mudville.”
Moresi’s Chophouse 6115 Main St., 672 - 1333 Ed’s Mudville Grill 6200 Center St., 673-0333 La Veranda Cafe 6201 Center St., 524 - 0011 Canesa’s Brooklyn Deli 6054 Main St., 852 - 1650 Skipolini’s Pizza 1035 Diablo St., 672 - 1111 Village Market 6104 Main St., 672 - 0188 Johnny’s Int’l Deli & Cafe’ 6101 Center St., 672-1203 Cup O’Jo 6054 Main St., 672-5105
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4724 Hakimi Court, Concord $398,000 Clayton Valley Corridor – 4BD/2.5BA w/open floor plan near shops & commute. Entertainer's backyard w/heated pool. Kitchen w/dbl. oven & Pergo floors. Large master suite & extra closets. HakimiCourt.com
14 Nottingham Circle, Clayton $450,000 Jeffrey Ranch – Enjoy a spectacular backyard with pool, waterfall & stone fire feature. Landscaped to please! This 4BD/2.5BA has dual pane windows, spacious rooms & a large master suite.
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6 to 8:30 p.m.
Pioneer brings local news to National Guardsman stationed in Iraq A care package sent from his wife recently caught up with Sergeant Major Scott Waterhouse who is serving with the National Guard in Iraq. Along with the goodies in the box were the last four issues of the Clayton Pioneer. “I love to hear what is going on back home,” he says. “This picture of me was taken at COB
Page 3
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
April 29, 2011
Around Town Clayton couple dances their way to Calgary Husband and wife team Craig Johnson and Joan Lundahl danced their way to a first place in the Professional Crown Division at the Calgary Dance Stampede on April 16. During the awards ceremony, they were “white-hatted” and made honorary Calgarians. The white cowboy hats are a symbol of Calgary hospitality, usually reserved for athletes, celebrities and dignitaries. “Every president, for the past 50 years, the Dalai Lama and the Pope, to name a few,” says Joan.
CLAYTON COUNTRY DANCERS Joan (in yellow)Lundahl and Craig Johnson took a first place at the Calgary Dance Stampede.
Troop 252 cleans up at DVMS
Boy Scout Troop 252 got a jump on Earth Day when they did their own Clayton Cleans Up at DVMS a week early. Every year the boys, joined by parents and scoutmasters, pull weeds at the school as a way to thank the school for being their chartering organization and providing meeting space.
Back row: Heather Grimshaw, Danny Condon, Dan Condon (Scout Master), Ed Forhan, Evan Forhan, John Wright (Asst. Scout Master), Jim Louchis, Tony Thongurai, Sarah Condon and Gypsy Condon. Front: Matthew Wright
Featuring local artists’ work in Clayton businesses
Saturday, April 30 10am- 2pm
Drop by for your free gift and enter to win a Napainspired wine basket
“Golden Gate, a view from Baker Beach” by Leslie Wilson
Leslie Wilson (watercolorist) original landscape watercolors Alice Martinez (watercolorist) original tropical floral watercolors & greeting cards Julie VanWyk (oils, acrylics, watercolors) original Clayton landscape paintings & greeting cards Tammy Slezak (miniature thread artist) original miniature thread bears, afghans, etc.
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April 29, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Letters to the Editor P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517
Texas Umbrella Tree toxic
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 , Administration
Please take a moment to read about our frightening and tragic experience with the fatally toxic Texas Umbrella Tree and our beloved dog. These trees, also known as the “Chinaberry Tree” grow all over Clayton. All parts of this tree including the bark, flowers, leaves, berries, and roots are toxic. Six to eight berries, which look like Garbonzo beans, can be fatal to animals as large as a horse; as few as one or two berries can kill a child! Symptoms from the poison include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, depression, paralysis and seizers. There is no cure; all you can do is give supportive care. On Thursday, “Peanut” ate a few berries from this tree. Fortunately we realized she was poisoned and got her to a vet in
S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Jay Hartlove, Lou Fancher, Nicci Shipstead, Pam Wiesendanger, Mike Dunn
We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse
PIONEER INFO 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 Website are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.
time to save her with IV fluids and charcoal to absorb the poison. Anti-emetics and ulcer medication were also necessary. We spent a very anxious 36 hours and $800 before she started to come back to us. The tree that we sat under with Peanut shades the picnic tables in the back patio area of the Clayton Club Saloon. The Texas Umbrella Tree was introduced to the United States from China as a fast growing shade tree and they are all over town. If your child or pet eats any part of the tree, take immediate action! You have a limited time before tragic results can occur. Please be careful around these trees with pets and children. Pam Loftus and Lou Barrere Clayton
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Directory of Advertisers Auto Economy Auto Painting and Body Work . . . . . . .757-2222 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Bill Peck Home Improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-9786 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212-3339 Contra Costa Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-8713 H&L Builders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4046 Handyman Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .639-4209 J&J’s Final Coat Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .625-5849 Smith and Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0138 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dentist Renner, Jason D.D.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800 Rissel, Richard D.M.D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Ravioli’s Italian Market Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-3819
Fountain project disappointing What’s with all the rocks around town? I thought it was a bit much when the Clayton sign at Clayton Rd and Marsh Creek became an eyesore when rocks or boulders were “dumped” on the slope with no thought as to how to make it look natural. Now we have more of the unnatural placement of boulders around the Oakhurst fountain. ...As was pointed out in the article by Mayor Shuey (in the April 15 issue of the Pioneer), “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” I agree with that, but fail to see much beauty in the placement of same-sized pointy boulders placed or spread from one end to the other, without a sense of natural design…I
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.
understand the need to lower maintenance costs and reveal that Clayton is a “green” community. However, I would wager that after all is said and done, “the maintenance of drought tolerant and low maintenance shrubs with more seasonal color landscaping” (City Manager’s words) won’t be much less costly, if any. … wouldn’t it have been more cost effective to replace the existing grass with the artificial type used in the park under the statue of the children? …I for one am disappointed in the planning and expense of this project. Neal R. Van Doren Clayton
Sweet Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0936 Willows Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .957-2500 Events Pacific Coast Farmers Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9090 Financial and Insurance Services Benton, Mureleen - Ameriprise Financial . . . . . .685-4523 Kommer, Paul - Merrill Lynch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .988-2111 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 ProFit Business Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-1025 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-877-8328 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Acacia Cremation and Burial Society . . . .1-877-916-4779 Moore’s Mission Funeral Home
. . . . . . . . . . . . .682-1100
Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245
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Mailing and Shipping The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Personal Services Bella Mia Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-7792 Pet Services
SERVICES Girl Gardening Garden care, monthly pruning and fertilizing services. Plant suggestions and installation. Call or email Nicole Hackett 673-1746, or gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.
Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Pet Suites Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodie’s Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787
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Laurence, Pete - RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Meals on Wheels Drivers 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@att.net
Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt -Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness All Out Sports League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203-5626 Castle Rock Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .933-3701 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454
Help fight Hunger Call Anna Chan at 672-1988.
Levity Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6931
Anna’s Attic Volunteers Call 674-9072 or (925) 7665066.
Dunhaven Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-4663
Hospice of the East Bay Call Volunteer Dept. at (925) 887-5678 or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org.
Services, Other
Retail
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Air Cloud Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 x 2 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029
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Scout Sessions:
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Clayton Historical Society Museum Call the museum at 672-0240.
Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447
Clayton Community Library. 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org
Off 2 Hawaii Travel Services . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-675-4050 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Clayton Farmers’ Market returns for the season May 7
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Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association (PCFMA) is gearing up for the seasonal opening of the Clayton Farmers’ Market next week. The market will be back in action with Northern California’s freshest fruits and vegetables and live music and activities to entertain patrons all summer long. “We’re very excited for the reopening of the Clayton Farmers’ Market,” said John Silveira, Director of PCFMA. “We’ve got some exciting events planned and hope to make this a great year.” The Clayton Farmers’ Market will open on Sat., May 7 and run every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon on Diablo Street between Main and Center Streets. Grand opening festivities include a ribbon cutting ceremony with local dignitaries and face painting for children and a drawing for a new cookbook. The first 50 farmers’ market shoppers will receive a free reusable bag. Be sure to look for the new fre-
quent shopper card to receive great prizes throughout the summer. The market is a means for supporting local California farmers. Whether you’re looking for earthy asparagus, flowering orchids, flavorful onions, juicy strawberries, Asian greens, fresh seafood, or any other spring produce items, you’ll find them at the Clayton Farmers’ Market. More than two dozen California farmers and other food producers are expected to be selling their goods in the market on opening day. Certified Farmers’ Markets are locations that offer only California-grown products sold directly to consumers by the farmers that grew, nurtured and harvested the crops. All PCFMA markets accept WIC FMNP
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Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA) presents the festival, but Garrett insists it’s a community effort. “Businesses cooperate and collaborate, too,” Garrett said. “The Clayton Community Church provides space and Diablo Valley Ranch sends manpower to set up and tear down the event. No one is paid to put on this event. Everything is run by volunteers.” Proceeds from the festival support the community. “CBCA built the gazebo in the downtown park, helped redo the Clayton sign, donated to the schools, the Blue Star Moms, the Clayton Historical Society, the library …,” Garrett boasted, allowing his voice to trail off and the list to speak for itself. With his tone changing from staid historian to the sound of a kid on the first day of summer, Garrett announced that Diamond Dave will perform on Sunday. “There’ll be the Clayton Valley High School choir on Saturday, there’s Kiddieland, and there’s a vendor whose teriyaki chicken skewers are really great. I always try to get those,” he added.
from page 1 myself to French braid on my own hair in high school,” she recalled. In 1999, she started with a hair braiding group at Renaissance fairs and now travels to shows 25 weekends a year. Her bows are made from ribbons and feathers. A nine-line bow is her favorite accessory. Glitter strands and fairy braids, where colorful hair is braided into a customer’s own hair, are new, specialized services she will offer this year. Lewis also sells personalized glassware at her booth. Customized stencil patterns can be etched into the glass, or wine charms – colorful, beaded rings that rest at the base of a wine glass or coffee mug – can be purchased. Lewis will have more than 60 different wine charms in designs suitable for everyone from young sports enthusiasts to adult wine lovers. BISCOTTI FOR PEOPLE AND PETS ALIKE
Millie’s Boutique Biscotti is a new addition for the 2011 festival. “We have gone every year to the Art & Wine Festival since we moved here,” said Sherry Guthrie. “Now that we are a new business, we wanted to make our debut in our community festival.” Guthrie was raised in Contra Costa County and her grandparents owned a farm in Concord. In 2004, she and her husband moved to a Concord home just across the border from Clayton. Biscotti was developed in Italy, and Guthrie, who is Italian, has been adapting an old family
SMALL TOWN FEELING Brenda Lewis is returning as a vendor for the third time. A Clayton resident since September 2003, she looks forward to meeting new people and catching up with fellow vendors. “Of all my fairs, this one has a unique small town feel that is special,” she said. Lewis braids hair and sell decorative hair accessories. “I taught
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recipe for years. Already distinguished in the biscotti market, she has earned industry recognition for her vintner’s blend, made to be paired with red wine, and a chardonnay citrus blend to be paired with white wine. Recently, the company began to develop a biscotti for dogs. “I started adapting my recipe for dogs after buying specialty dog biscuits that my pet wouldn’t eat. Our dog lovers biscotti will feature banana peanut butter and applesauce carrot,” Guthrie said. An active participant in the Clayton K-9 Coalition, a community group that supplies water at the Clayton Dog Park, Guthrie donates a portion of dog biscotti sales to the organization. THE BIGGER, THE BETTER Last year, the festival drew enormous numbers – especially on Saturday. “We probably averaged about 10,000 to 12,000 people,” Garrett said. In his opinion, more people means increased opportunities for supporting community events and services throughout the year. “Plus, it’s very well controlled in that all the entrances and exits are manned with security,” he noted. For Garrett, the pleasure of the festival lasts all year. “Clayton is a small town, in a big town area, right under Mt. Diablo. It’s a great place to raise kids,” he said. With Diamond Dave and those teriyaki skewers ahead of him, he’s counting down to April 30 and hoping for sunny skies. The Art & Wine Festival runs 10 a.m.-7 p.m. April 30 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 1 in downtown Clayton. Admission is free. For more information, call 672-2272.
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Obituary
DRE#00344166
Beulah Ida Mathews Langford, 74, passed away unexpectedly on April 18, 2011. She was born July 8, 1936 in Cedar City, Utah, to Otto Lee and Mildred Emma Mathews. She married Sherman Dale Langford on October 4, 1954. Beulah and Sherman raised their ten children in Concord and Clayton, California, where they were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Beulah worked as a bookkeeper for an accounting firm. She was very talented with her hands and loved to arrange flowers, sew, and quilt, and shared those talents with others in the community. Her husband Sherman retired from Concord High School after 25 years of teaching. In 1995 they left Clayton and moved to Utah where they owned and operated the Victorian Inn Bed and Breakfast. Beulah continued to cherish the many friends and relationships she had in Clayton and Concord. Beulah is survived by her husband Sherman; her children, Lynn Dale (Susan), Springville, UT, Mike (Deanne) Antioch, CA, Mark (Denise), Kalispell, MT, Allen (Linda), Wilsonville, OR, Lenis (Duane) Rogowski, Lehi, UT, Jeff (Christine), LaGrange, KY, Susanne (Shane) Hill, Kalispell, MT, Dale (Delicia), Coppell, TX, Linda (Matt) Davis, Pleasant Grove, UT, Wayne (Kelly), Rancho Cordova, CA; 41 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Funeral Services were held April 23 in Springville, Utah. Condolences may be sent to the family through a memorial website that has been established at http://www.utahvalleyfuneral.c om/obituaries/BeulahLangford/
Garden Tour from page 1 with privacy have been successfully tackled. The backyard has a sparkling pool, with a beautiful blue tile backdrop. The Primavera statue surrounded with greenery is an excellent focal piece. Bold-colored cushions and market umbrellas add to the atmosphere. A resort-like feel envelops the lush tropical paradise landscape of Jon and Linda Van Brusselen’s home. You’ll forget where you are under the mature palm trees surrounded with deep green philodendron and ornamental ginger. Thatched-roof sitting areas provide shade and complement the resort ambience. The mature garden of Neal and Cathy Richmond is another treasure. Many different perennials are installed in both the front and back yards, and this garden has something in bloom each day of the year. There are so many selections that it will delight even an experienced plant lover. Linda Pinder has a small, cottage garden and patio that she accents with perennials, flowering shrubs, wall art and container combinations. This garden is packed with ideas for smaller spaces. For the tour, she also will display colorful quilts. Tickets are $25. Buy four and get one free. Tickets are available at the Clayton Historical Museum, at 6101 Main St., 2-4 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday. Or download an order form at claytonhistory.org, or stop by R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Gardens at 6780 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton.
April 29, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Inmates find a sense of freedom in crafting toys
Page 7
Why advertise in the Pioneer? Here’s one reason: “We started advertising in the Pioneer a couple of years ago and we have been amazed at the increased traffic into our store. I consider the Pioneer to be a cornerstone to our growth.” Sarah and Bob Rodenburg, Rodie’s Feed and Country Store
TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
When Christmas is over, most people think Santa’s elves go on an extended vacation. Not so. Behind the gates of the Marsh Creek Detention Facility, about 6 miles from downtown, one of Santa’s chief elves runs a daily crew of 10-17 toymakers as they turn out more than 1,000 toys a year for some of the county’s neediest kids. Carefully crafted rocking horses, brightly painted pulltoys, bicycles awaiting repair and detailed doll houses line the walls of the woodshop, where instructor Rick Boughton supervises the inmates who signed up for the voluntary program. The detention facility’s “Toyland” is run by the Contra Costa Department of Adult Education and offers inmates an opportunity to earn credit toward a high school diploma or GED. But more importantly, says Boughton, it gives the men a “sense of purpose” and skills they can take with them when they leave. Boughton encourages the men to take a creative approach to the work. Toys remembered from childhood inspired many of the designs. A dollhouse meant for little girls turned into a fire station with the addition of a pole down the middle. And a can of Rosarita refried beans became the sound box for the popular “canjo,” a one string, fretted instrument that comes complete with instructions for playing “Oh, Susanna.” The inmates turn out as many as 1,200 toys a year for the Contra Costa Crisis Nursery, the Salvation Army, Friends Outside and other organizations that distribute them to at-risk children. Photos of the kids with the toys and thank you notes fill several scrapbooks on the front table. “We’re never there when the
for
s vel Servt,icSe a r t e . 270, Clayto T enter Stree n
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
WOODSHOP INSTRUCTOR RICK BOUGHTON plucks out a tune on a “canjo,” one of the handcrafted toys made by the inmates in the woodshop program at the Marsh Creek Detention Facility.
kids get the toys,” says Boughton. “So the pictures tell the story.” Very few of the men start the program with any woodworking experience. Most of the inmates are serving short sentences for DUIs or minor drug offenses and will be in and out of the program in a few weeks, so Boughton’s team is constantly in flux. With inexperienced workers, safety takes front and center, says Boughton. “We really have a perfect safety record. Nothing more than a few splinters.” The workshop was recently the beneficiary of a large donation to purchase a $3,000 stateof-the art table saw. “You can’t cut yourself with it,” he says. Boughton gets a “bang” out of watching the men grow in the program. “First they’re doing it because it’s better than doing nothing and they’re doing it for themselves. Then pretty soon they begin to do it for the kids.” Wes Moore will be gone in 30 days but is making the best of his time in detention. He comes from a metal-working background, so working with wood is very different.
“It’s more forgiving,” he says. “You can do more with wood. It’s a nice change.” Alongside the toy workshop, inmate Robert Phillips eyes a wall lined with dozens of bicycles in need of some repair or another. After fixing the broken bikes, he runs each one through a detailed safety inspection before he declares them “finished and safe.” Phillips always wanted to own a bicycle repair shop. “One year, my mama bought me a new bike and I took it all apart on my bedroom floor – every screw. She was so mad.” In March, the Contra Costa County Sheriff ’s Department named Boughton Employee of the Year for his work with the woodshop program. Boughton, a four-tour Vietnam War veteran, brings 35 years experience in woodworking to the program he has served since 2001. The woodshop is part of a broader program run by the Contra Costa Office of Adult Education and includes classes in substance abuse, computer applications, landscaping and basic skills needed to pass the GED.
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picious vehicle and/or people in the area. Seeing people who do not belong in the neighborhood maybe be reason to contact the police. Vehicles “cruising” the street at a slow speed and going up and down the block could be considered suspicious.
See Safety, page 13
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Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
ideor ic VH u s u M y o
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The district currently spends more than 13 percent less per student and 2.9 percent less for teachers than the state average, says Middendorf. Faced with mounting expenses and falling revenues forcing school closures, layoffs, bigger class sizes and more furlough days, the school district is at risk of being taken over by the state. “It’s a broken system,” Middendorf says. A charter school would be more responsive to the needs of the students and have greater flexibility in curriculum planning and class size, according to Middendorf and McChesney. They were joined at the presentation by consultant Nick Driver of the California Charter Schools Association. “We want to see class size ratio reduced from the current 32:1 to 20:1,” said Middendorf. Athletics would be unaffected by the change, Accelerated Placement (AP) classes would continue and summer school would be part of the calendar year. Parents cheered when Middendorf said students would wear school uniforms.
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board president Gary Eberhart. “So I don’t have an opinion. It depends on how it is set up.” To gain school board approval, the charter application must show a high level of community support and the approval of a majority of the teachers — in this case 39. The plan must also show financial viability. “We aren’t going to approve a school that will go broke in five or ten years,” Eberhart says. However, Eberhart is not deaf to the roar. The charter school issue notwithstanding, he says the district has a plan to address parents’ and teachers’ complaints. “The centerpiece of the plan is a new administration at the school, which will take form very shortly,” he says. Current principal Gary Swanson is retiring at the end of this school year and several staff members will be replaced. “We absolutely need to have a consistent approach to discipline on that site,” Eberhart says. “We don’t necessarily need more rules. We just need a consistent adherence to the rules in place.” IMPROVED FUNDING LEVELS Charter schools are public schools that receive funding directly from the state and federal government instead of the school district. If CV converts to charter school status, per student funding would increase from $4,900 to $6,240. Additional state grants are available for facilities improvements and upgrades, which could include a new library
Moms, from page 1 from the others. “I think I thought when Seth was born that I couldn’t love anybody as much as I loved him,” she said of her firstborn. “But then Josh came along and I loved him just as much. I just didn’t realize that love expands.” Betty Mason of Concord has seven children, ages 22, 19, 18, 16, 14, 12 and 9. In case that weren’t enough, she works as a kindergarten teacher, with 17 5-
and 6-year-olds under her care to read “Cat in the Hat” and raise their hands before speaking in class She was pleased to find she enjoys her children every bit as much as adults as when they were cuddly kindergarteners themselves. “The happy surprise with my daughters as they get to be women is we’re becoming friends,” she said, smiling. “Oh my goodness, it’s like they take
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KELLY TUOHEY WITH HER THREE DAUGHTERS Madison, 4, Samantha 11, and Annika 7, remembers being surprised her first year as a mother to realize that the intense love she had for her new baby mirrored the feelings of her own parents for her. "It was fantastic," she said.
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April 29, 2011 or theater. A five- to seven-member board of teachers, staff, parents, community members and a nonvoting student will govern the school and appoint a chief executive officer. Enrollment in charter schools is open to all students who want to attend. Charter schools may not “cherry-pick” students. Preferential enrollment is given to students within the currently defined boundaries. Students who do not want to attend the charter school may attend other high schools in the district. Charter schools are required to meet state academic standards. They also must allow unions. The teachers on site will determine whether they stay with the current union or form a new bargaining unit. According to Middendorf, a “straw poll” taken of the 55 teachers present at a staff meeting last week showed 32 were “enthusiastically in favor of the charter conversion,” none were opposed and the rest were “neutral, needing more information.”
The charter school group hopes to submit the financial projections and application to the school board by the end of May. If approved, CVHS would be come a charter school beginning with the 2012 academic year.. Clayton Valley would be the first school in the Bay Area to convert from a district school to a charter school but not the first in the state. Granada Hills Charter High School in Los Angeles, which is serving as a model for the CV charter group, converted in 2003 and has seen a 113-point increase in its API. Charter schools are a growing movement. In 1993, there were 31 charter schools in California; in 2010, there were 912. Most are start-ups.
Club News
tables with festive and whimsical themes such as “Spring has Sprung,” “It’s a Froggy, Froggy World,” “A Day at the Beach” and “Hearts and Flowers.” Outfitted handsomely in black slacks, white shirts and black bowties, husbands, sons and friends of club members waited on the guests. Coldwater Creek of Walnut Creek presented the fashion show, with club members and Food Bank volunteers doing the modeling.
CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB More than 184 women attended the club’s 6th annual Festival of Tables and Fashion on April 2. Merle Whitburn and her committee coordinated the sold-out event. Proceeds benefited the Food Bank of Contra Costa/Solano. Club members decorated 23
the place of my best friends. … Having them go from these babies that I have to maintain, they’re becoming like my friends, and it’s wonderful.” Anna Chan, also known as the Lemon Lady, juggles a busy life with feeding the hungry (and teaching others to follow in her footsteps) along with parenting her 4-year-old daughter Ava. Although she appears calm, she professed to being amazed at how moms are able to multitask. “I’m surprised mommies manage when you’ve only got 24 hours a day,” she said. “You become a fantastic juggler. You manage to fit one more thing, in addition to the 999,000 things you’re already doing. You just do one more thing.” Many mothers of multiple children spoke of the “just when you think you’ve got it figured out” aspect of parenting. Kelly Tuohey, the mother of three girls, ages 11, 7 and 4, found that although she’s wildly in love with all three of her children, parenting her third and youngest daughter was a different experience. “I’d say there were a lot of similarities with the first two, but the third – holy cow, where did that come from? Same surroundings, same environment, same nurturing, but apparently
The complete Power Point presentation given at the information meeting is posted on the group’s Website at https://sites.google.com/site/claytonvalleycharterhighschool/home.For more on the charter school movement, see story by student reporters Taylor Tovrea and Sarah Rosen on page 8.
JULIANA BASIL with daughter Olivia, 3
the nature is very different,” she said. “Clearly there’s something born into the kids that isn’t of our doing.” Local mom Juliana Basil and her husband Michael have a 3year-old daughter, Olivia, and are expecting another on Aug. 6. “Parenting is all trial and error,” she said, noting that every day brings new surprises. “What works one day may not work the next.” Basil remains unimpressed by the idea of parenting to perfection. “It’s OK to let my daughter walk around in a princess costume all day long,” she said. “There’s no such thing as a perfect mom. But there’s a lot of good ways to be a good mom.”
April 29, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 9
CV campus abuzz with charter chatter Link Crew ‘does the TAYLOR TOVREA Clayton Pioneer
Students who walk the paintchipped hallways of Clayton Valley High School often feel neglected. It’s no wonder – with growing frustration among students and teachers, packed classrooms and reminders of constant budget cuts. However, recent discussions about converting CVHS into a charter school has perked up both students and faculty and set the campus abuzz with debate. Talk of nearly a 30 percent increase in funding per student, freedom from the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and overall campus improvements has many people excited and hopeful. “I think having my younger sisters go to Clayton Valley as a charter school would be benefi-
cial, simply because there would be a higher standard set for students,” said junior Kaylee Andrews. However, the support of some is being offset by the worries of others. Based on his experience, chemistry teacher Ken Cambier has doubts. “The charter schools that I’ve been a part of have been manipulative and deceptive,” he said. “If I thought this could work, then I’d be first in line to support it. But these types of schools are run by hidden agendas and that makes me skeptical.” Teacher enthusiasm for the proposed conversion is also inhibited by concerns about the school district’s role. “We would love to know that the district is in support of us making a better decision for the students and the school, but with all the uncertainty for next year, it’s still unclear whether
that support is going to happen or not,” said one teacher who asked not to be named. “At this point, job security is a main concern for a lot of people. And with the uncertainty of union and district support, they are trying to determine how they would all be protected when the dust settles, myself included.” explained another CVHS teacher who also asked to remain anonymous. “Currently, the district sets policy for just about everything in our schools, leaving little power to administrators and teachers and virtually none to parents. Perhaps such fears would be alleviated in a charter school environment, where decisions are made by a culmination of staff, parents and students.” Aside from these uncertainties, the teacher “couldn’t be more excited” at the prospect of
CV’s transformation into a charter school. Both teachers are supportive of the concept. “I can’t think of anything better that could happen to a teacher in terms of having input in the environment and curriculum of a school.” Many teachers are encouraged by the thought of more involvement and input. After being “dictated to” by the district for so long, many find it appealing that their time investment would help produce a creative, inspiring and innovative learning environment. “It almost sounds too good to be true,” said junior Laura Minorsky, expressing what many students on campus are thinking as the conversation continues. “But then again,” she added, “we have nowhere to go but up.” Student reporter Sarah Rosen contributed to this story.
right thing’ with mentoring program
MORE THAN 35 CVHS STUDENTS ‘do the right thing’ in helping freshmen fit into the high school culture. The students are members of the Link Crew, part of the character building program embraced by the schools, the city and the police department. BOB STEINER Clayton Pioneer
CV choirs bring home two golds, a silver SARAH ROSEN Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley is on quite the roll this year – with the choirs’ success at the Heritage Festival in Seattle just the latest accomplishment. With director Elizabeth Emigh on maternity leave, her husband Chris took over as interim director for the March 31-April 4 trip. Performing “Dirait-On,” “Walking on the Green Grass” and “Agnus Dei,” the CV concert choir earned the gold medal and was put on the list for the 2012 New York Invitational. This was the first time the choir had earned first place in several years. “After hearing we won, we screamed a lot. I remember one of our members ran down the length of our tables, screaming,
Clayton Valley choirs topped off a stellar year at the Heritage Festival in Seattle this month. The choirs walked off with two golds and one silver medal. Choir director Elizabeth Emigh was on maternity leave, so husband Chris Emigh took over duties as interim director.
and giving us all high fives,” recalls concert choir member and CV junior Allie Robison. “We weren’t expecting it at all, so when they were awarding
the silver and bronze awards and didn’t hear our school, we were like, ‘Wait, we got gold?’ Then we just exploded into cheers.”
New approach at assembly makes a world of difference TAYLOR TOVREA Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley High School’s campus came alive April 15 with the colors of a variety of nationalities, ranging from Scottish to Mexican. Many carried flags or wore patriotic T-shirts representing their heritage in the culmination of Multicultural Spirit Week. Many major cultures were recognized leading up to the annual assembly on Friday. Students entering the gym were surrounded by illustrations and symbols of cultures from around the world, appropriately reminiscent of Disneyland’s
“Small World” ride, this year’s theme. Flags dripped from the ceiling and brightly colored drawings and streamers set the scene. Senior Multicultural Club member Cheryllyn Brock was glad to be able to participate in the festivities by helping decorate. “It was tedious work,” she said, “but being able to help out with my friends and hearing all the positive feedback afterward made it well worth it.” Seniors Jodie Cabral and Ellen Noh, Multicultural Club presidents, hosted the smorgasbord of ethnic events, providing cultural facts to make the assem-
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bly educational and informative in addition to an entertaining alternative to class. Latin, ballet and modern dancing, color guard and Filipino, Hawaiian, Korean and Disney serenades made for a unique assembly. Old favorites like the Phantom Dancer and Tahitian dancing returned and student groups such as the women’s ensemble and the competition cheer squad performed as well, adding school spirit to the mix. While so many new acts kept the audience entertained and surprised for most of the show, one act really got people’s attention.
The women’s ensemble performed “Hotaru Koi,” “In Remembrance” and “Psalmo 150.” After having won gold for 13 years in a row, the ensemble was disappointed to be awarded silver. “We were all still so excited the other choirs had done so well this year, though,” notes Jenna Van Vliet, a CV junior and women’s ensemble member. The show choir performed “Zombie Jamboree,” “The Song of Purple Summer” and “Jai Ho,” earning yet another gold medal. CV junior, show choir member and longtime ballet dancer Janai Goodwin pulled out her pointe ballet shoes to accompany the choir as they sang “The Song of Purple Summer.” After a stunning performance, Goodwin was given the Maestro Award. “When they announced that I had won the award, I shakily stood up, thinking, ‘Oh my gosh! This is not real life!’ ” says Goodwin. “People hugged me and took my picture, and CV people are just cheering and going crazy. It was awesome. I just couldn’t stop smiling.”
See Assembly, page 13
Clayton Valley High’s Link Crew embraces the core values of Do the Right Thing (DTRT) while helping incoming freshmen transition to high school. DTRT is an ongoing, broadbased community program centered on accepting and practicing six personal values: responsibility, respect, kindness, selfdiscipline, integrity and courage. The city of Clayton is encouraging residents and local schools to adopt the program. The goal of Crew Link is to welcome freshmen to the campus and encourage them to think about the path they will follow during the next four years and what it takes to be successful in high school. Link Crew trains CVHS juniors and seniors to be mentors and advisors and to act as positive role models. They meet with all freshmen during gym class at least once a month during the school year. Sunny Shergill, Link Crew Webmaster, remembers feeling a lack of connection when he entered CVHS. He appreciates the opportunity to help new students make the transition more smoothly. About 35 students are currently dedicated to the mission, supported by faculty advisors Kat Marzel and Hosay Jamili. Marzel and Jamili are enthusiastic about how the DTRT program has given Link Crew members a focus and common language
from which to emphasize the importance of accepting and reflecting good personal values as they help the freshmen develop into responsible citizens. Link Crew’s incorporation of the tenants of DTRT is further affirmation of the overall importance of the DTRT program at CVHS. All students are exposed to DTRT in some fashion in the classroom, on campus and by way of the faculty’s commitment to the program. For Link Crew member Maggie Trees-Keenan, it all begins with respect. “Link Crew uses the elements of DTRT to teach students responsibility and how to take the initiative in shaping their own lives,” she says.
School News Clayton Valley High School Volunteers are needed for Grad Night, to be held June 7 at Centre Concord. Anyone over the age of 21 may help with entertainment, working in the casino, food service, security and more. For more information, contact Michelle Eberhart at 7983967 or michelle.eberhart@gmail.com. Or visit cvhspfc.com.
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April 29, 2011
Clayton Sports Lacrosse teams playfully join for benefit game JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Three weeks to the day after the March 30 blaze at the Clough home, the boys and girls lacrosse teams lined up before an enthusiastic crowd at Clayton Valley High School for a benefit game. Boys and girls high school lacrosse have different rules, so to even the playing field the boys agreed to play by the girls rules and use girls sticks, which have a much shallower net. Keeping it all in fun, the boys showed up at Gonsalves Stadium in practice jerseys – complemented by red girls lacrosse skirts. Playing for the girls team, boys varsity goalie Troy “Pretty in Pink” Carlson took it one step further and added pink tights to his ensemble. When CVHS lacrosse player Joanna Fan heard about the fire that consumed the Clough family home in Clayton, she talked to some of her Eagles teammates about something they could do to assist. The Coughs’ oldest son Joey is a new member of the Eagles varsity this spring. The girls came up with the idea of having a benefit lacrosse game against the boys team. After checking with coaches, school administrators and ath-
letic director Pat Middendorf, Joanna and her teammates quickly put their idea into action for the first-ever contest. The girls baked homemade goodies and produced com-
memorative T-shirts to sell to fans to raise additional funds. Both Eagle mascots came out to cheer on the teams. The girls raced to a 4-0 lead in the first half, but things did
not go without incident. The boys forgot that the girls play by no-contact rules and inadvertently knocked a few of the girls to the ground, resulting in heavy penalties for the boys team. By
halftime, the boys started to figure out how to work the girls equipment and came back to lead 5-4 at the break. The second half opened with the draw between sister and
Photo by Mike Dunn
THE ACTION WAS GENERALLY FAST AND FURIOUS but the smiles were also plentiful when the Clayton Valley High boys and girls lacrosse teams took the Gonsalves Stadium turf for a benefit game to assist the family of boys player Joey Clough. Participants included, from left, Allie Robison, Amanda Calimlim, Cody “Nothing Under the Skirt” Anderson, Aaron “Anna” Calimlim, Joanna Fan, Travis “Cookie” Kohlmeyer (back) and Sara Okimoto. Fan initially came up with the idea for the benefit and did much of the legwork to make it happen.
brother Amanda and Aaron Calimlim, with Amanda assisting with the goal. The teams traded goals, keeping the score tight with Megan Abcede, Samantha Healy and Kera Prell putting it in the net for the girls. Both Carlson and Tyler “Hope the Dress Doesn’t” Falls scored two goals for the girls team, but in the end the boys prevailed 9-7. Joey Clough was sick and didn’t play in the benefit. “The event turned out really good,” he said after the game. “A lot of people came out and it was a lot of fun. It’s really nice, really helpful, really moving.” The event ended with both teams lining up at midfield for the “Honor the Game” handshake. Afterward, all the players gathered to take commemorative group pictures. “It is inspiring to witness young people take the initiative to come together, lose their inhibitions and stereotypes to make this event a success and a positive impact on many people’s lives,” said boys coach Matt Hill. “The first girls vs. boys benefit lacrosse game was so much fun that we will definitely continue the tradition in years to come.” Michelle Hill and Mike Dunn contributed to this story.
D’Angina taking Eagles volleyball team, coach to new heights JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Coaching high school sports can bring rewards – often of the intangible variety – to the women and men who take on that daunting task.
MITCHELL D'ANGINA
Most coaches aren’t teachers at the school and probably don’t even earn minimum wage if the number of hours spent planning, practicing and competing are divided into the paltry pay they receive. To make it worthwhile, there has to be a large amount of personal satisfaction and the knowledge that the coach is making a difference in the lives of the student athletes. There are also those rare times when a team or individual athlete does extraordinary things. For Clayton Valley High School alumnus and boys volleyball coach Stephen Coddington, this is one of those times. Outside hitter Mitchell D’Angina is being counted on to lead the Eagles to their third straight berth in the North Coast Section playoffs. The 6-6 senior is literally and figuratively head and shoulders above most teammates and competitors. “I have always dreamed of
having a player of Mitchell’s caliber. It’s fun watching him play this year,” Coddington says. “Against Berean Christian last week, he made a back row attack and made contact with the ball about five feet past the 10-foot line to complete the kill and landed at the net. It was a legal play. That is skill on another level.” For D’Angina, it’s been an equally exciting time. He was accepted to Brigham Young University last week and invited to walk-on to the Cougars volleyball team, currently ranked No. 2 in the NCAA. A day after getting his college acceptance, he helped CVHS defeat Berean Christian in four sets. His stat line included 21 kills, 21 digs and five aces. “It’s been a great experience to be able to bring our team up to a higher level of play and to be able to compete with some of the top teams,” D’Angina said before the Berean match. “We
need to learn to play as a team and bring each other up (in order to compete at NCS).” He has been concentrating fully on volleyball while playing club for the Diablo Valley Volleyball Cobra Kai 18 team. The CVHS team lost six seniors so had to fill in with a lot of new players. “Even with this rebuilding, we have high expectations to be competitive with the league’s best teams and go for a Diablo Valley Athletic League title,” Coddington says. “We should also make the NCS playoffs for a third year in a row.” Seniors libero Clark Stratford and outside hitter/opposite Austin Woods give D’Angina strong support and this year’s team veteran leadership. A quartet of juniors – setter Cole Willardson, defensive specialist Dalton Moore and middle blockers Taylor
Photo by Mike Dunn
SOPHOMORE TYLER SUN (CENTER JUMPING) OF CLAYTON AND SENIOR OUTSIDE HITTER MITCHELL D’ANGINA (8) helped the Eagles sweep rivals Concord in three sets last week with 11 kills as Clayton Valley won its 10th game of the volleyball season.
See Volleyball page 12
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Page 11
Clayton Sports
Diablo FC boys U15 team planning for regionals in Boise
Sports Shorts YOUTH SUMMER RECREATION COMING TO CLAYTON GYM The comprehensive Clayton Youth Summer Slam program offered by All Out Sports League at Clayton Community Gym is accepting reservations now for junior golf clinic, youth basketball and volleyball leagues, summer day camp, cheer camp, indoor floor hockey league and flag football camp. Summer programs run between June 13 and Aug. 20. For more information call (925) 203-5626 or to register for any program offered by All Out Sports at the gym, visit alloutsportsleague-clayton.com.
U16 boys denied title due to rainout JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Diablo Futbol Club’s under 15 and under 16 boys soccer teams continue to make their mark on a regional and national level. They both are now ranked among the top 50 teams in America after outstanding tournament and cup results this spring. Diablo FC 95 just earned a trip to the USYSA Western Regionals June 20-26 in Boise after reaching the championship game of CYSA State Cup for the third successive year. Coach John Badger’s team lost the U15 finale two weeks ago 2-0 to Santa Clara Sporting 95, the same team that beat the local club powerhouse all three years in the state cup championship match. Because of the wildcard draw, both CYSA State Cup finalists earned spots in the Western Regionals. Champions from the 12 western states along with two wildcard teams and two Far West Regional League finalists make up the 16-team bracket. Diablo FC will be facing the state champions from Oregon, New Mexico and Cal South in their round-robin bracket, where two teams advance to the regional quarterfinals. Diablo FC 95 won its first four state cup games in fairly easy fashion by a combined 152 score. In the semi-finals, with a regional spot at stake, the local team and Mission Valley United 95 Black of Fremont battled through a scoreless game and two overtime periods. The result was determined by penalty kicks, with Diablo FC scoring goals by Edgar Damian, Trenton Matson, T.J. Hogan and Kian Maghsoodnia. Goalkeeper Andrew Konstantino then stopped two spot kicks by Mission Valley, putting Diablo FC back into the cup finals for the third time. Diablo FC 95 had defeated Santa Clara Sporting 95 in the semi-finals of the SCS Invitational last summer en route to the championship there, but they weren’t able to duplicate that result in the state cup finals. Also on the Diablo FC 95
See Futbol, page 12
10TH ANNUAL CLAYTON VALLEY YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP
The 10th annual Clayton Valley youth football camp runs June 20-24 at Gonsalves Stadium on the Clayton Valley High School campus from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. It is for boys and girls entering third through ninth grades. Head football coach Herc Pardi, defensive coordinator Jerry Coakley and the Eagles coaching staff and players provide fundamental instruction and daily full contact competition. There is a trainer on site. Each participant gets a camp shirt and written evaluation. Cost is $125, plus a refundable $75 equipment fee. For more information, email herc_pardi@hotmail.com, call (925) 682-7474 ext. 3115 or pick up a brochure at the CVHS front office. Deadline to apply is June 9. Photo courtesy Diablo FC
DIABLO FUTBOL CLUB’S UNDER 15 BOYS SOCCER TEAM IS CURRENTLY RANKED #15 in the United States and is going to the USYSA Far West Regionals June 20-26 in Boise, Idaho after reaching the championship game of CYSA State Cup for the third successive year. The team includes, front row from left, Edgar Damian, Jonathan Silvan, Ryan Ringelstein, Reymond Velete, Mario Matute, T.J. Hogan, Israel Murguia, Kian Maghsoodnia; second row, Mikie Guerrero, Esteban Berumen, Derek Wilcox, Andrew Konstantino, Trenton Mattson, Javier Valencia, Isaiah Dargan; standing Juan Velazquez and coach John Badger.
Clayton Valley golf team driving for NCS berth JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Coach Chance Gernhardt is relying on a core of upper classmen to use one of two avenues to gain a North Coast Section berth for the Clayton Valley High School golf team. The Eagles can earn a postseason invitation by winning the Diablo Valley League regular season or a May 2 league tournament at Boundary Oak in Walnut Creek. As the coach expected, the Eagles are battling College Park and Northgate for top league honors. Gernhardt was pleased with his team’s efforts in splitting home and away non-league matches with St. Patrick-St. Vincent of Benicia. Returning senior golfers Garrett Dane and Stuart Bredell have been the low scorers for the Eagles as they chase DVAL favorites College Park and Northgate. Classmates Jack Loflin and Kenny Johnson are new to varsity this season but
have posted some solid scores. Juniors Daniel Maraccini and Sam Marchant also have generally been among the five lowest scorers for the Eagles. Rounding out the Eagles squad are freshmen Eric Carlson and Kevin Cuff, sophomore Wyatt Dane and juniors Nick Gasparro and Brin Owen. Two years ago, the Eagles had an all-DVAL golfer in freshman Domenic Mazza. Last season, Mazza switched his spring sports attentions to baseball and is in the starting rotation for the first-place Eagles baseball team. Although he played in a couple non-league golf matches this year, Mazza doesn’t figure in the Eagles post-season drive while he is part of a CVHS baseball team currently ranked second in the East Bay. Bryan Bredell is assisting Gernhardt with the Eagles coaching duties this year. The NCS qualifying meet at Sunol Valley Golf Course is a week after the DVAL championships.
CLAYTON VALLEY FALCONS CHEER, FOOTBALL SIGNUPS OPEN
Clayton Valley Falcons cheerleading and football signups are now open online at cvaafalcons.com. Football is open for players 7-14 years of age while cheerleading begins for five-yearolds. There will be two walk-in sign up days in May and June. The next session is Thursday, May 12, from 6-8 p.m. and Sunday, May 22, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Mountain Mike’s Pizza next to Clayton Bowl in Concord. Complete information on the Falcons football and cheer programs is available at cvaafalcons.com.
CV BASEBALL SCHEDULES SUMMER CAMP Two-time DVAL champion Clayton Valley High Eagles coaches and players will present their annual Summer Baseball Camp June 13-30 at the Concord school. The program each week is Monday through Thursday for boys and girls 7-15, from beginners to advanced players. Camp Director Bob Ralston says current college players and student coaches from Clayton Valley provide positive role models and give hands-on instruction. For more information or to register for summer camp, call 682-7474 ext. 3115 or visit eaglebaseballacademy.com.
DIABLO FC UNDER 8 ACADEMY BEGINS MAY 3 A new comprehensive soccer program for girls and boys 6-8 years of age is being introduced with the Diablo FC U8 Academy. The first of four groups of sessions runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays from May 3-June 2 at Boatwright Sports Complex in Concord. Camp Director Brian Voltattorni says the Academy is a developmental soccer program that will include psycho-motor skills, coordination exercises, technical training with the ball and free play. The Academy is scheduled so that players can also participate in an AYSO recreation program during the fall. For complete details and to register visit diablofc.org.
MT. DIABLO SOCCER OFFERS FALL LEAGUE ONLINE REGISTRATION Photo by Mike Dunn
SENIOR GARRETT DANE HAS been a low scorer most of the season for the Clayton Valley High golf team as the Eagles try to overcome favorites College park and Northgate and gain a NCS tournament placement.
The local AYSO recreation soccer program is offering convenient online registration for the first time in its 31-year history. Mt. Diablo Soccer encourages families with children 4 -18 years of age to visit its website at mdsoccer.org and sign up now. Children must be at least four-years-old by July 31, 2011 to play this fall season. For more information email Mt. Diablo Soccer at fall@mdsoccer.org. Information on fees and volunteer requirements are on the website. Team practices begin as early as Aug. 1.
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Dogs know that playtime is just a game
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Dogs, like humans, are one of a few unique species that engage in play far beyond the end of their childhood years. And watching them play can be a great spectator sport. Like human games, dog play has rules that must be followed for fairness, and some players are more skilled than others. The more you know about dog play behavior and what their body signals mean, the more enjoyment you will get out of watching the game. Almost all animals play as juveniles; it is a crucial part of development. By definition, play is a rehearsal of key survival behaviors. Dog play is made up of four of these behaviors:
fighting, fleeing, feeding and mating. What distinguishes play from the real survival behaviors are special cues that dogs provide one another, called metasignals. Meta-signals are body movements, gestures and activities that signal a dog’s playful and harmless intentions despite his behavior, which looks like hunting or fighting. For instance, play bows and paw raises are signals typically used to instigate a play session. Healthy, friendly play interactions have both dogs offering frequent meta-signals. When meta-signals are absent, they are conspicuously absent, and what starts as play can quickly turn sour. Both parties should also pause frequently during play. This helps bring rowdy play back down to a reasonable level and allows dogs a brief pause to literally “shake it off ” and remember that they are just playing. A crucial component of safe play is a dog’s ability to restrain himself and to act with measured force. A bite is a play bite and does not hurt the other dog.
Adult dogs who roll over and allow a puppy to wrestle on top of them are also exhibiting selfrestraint: the adult dog could easily overtake the puppy, but chooses not to for the sake of play.
energy and focuses exactly on the task at hand; there is no bouncing around when the hunt is on. The tendency of dogs to continue play into adulthood may explain why we as humans
During play, dogs’ bodies should be loose and wiggly, their movements bouncy, exaggerated and a little sloppy. This demonstrates that the dog has no intention of doing harm or acting aggressively. A dog that is intent on harming conserves his
cherish their companionship so dearly: We’re just two fun-loving, playful species that know how to have a good time.
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Portia is a beautiful little girl who enjoys gentle pets and lots of opportunities to snuggle! Could she be the purr-fect match for your family? The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The primary caretaker must be pres-
ent 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.
Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 256-1ARF (1273)
Volleyball, from page 10 Wingard and McKay Blatter – also are playing key roles. Coddington won’t be losing the D’Angina name from his roster anytime soon, with freshman outside hitter Matthew following in his brother’s footsteps. Another frosh, Garrett Blatter, is a defensive specialist and sophomore Tyler Sun is an opposite on the varsity team. Last year, the Eagles not only chased powerful Northgate in the DVAL title race but then faced off again with the Broncos in the first round of NCS playoffs Division II – where CVHS lost a four-set match. The previous year, they lost in four sets to Las Lomas at NCS. “Northgate is again the class of the league. College Park has a very good team this year and is making a lot of noise. We will finish somewhere in the top three places in league. If everything comes together with this team, we have a chance to win or share the title,” Coddington said of the Eagles, who were 51 in league through last week. NCS begins May 17. The fifth-year coach has fellow alums “Dice” Armstrong and Thuan Nguyen on his coaching staff.
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Futbol, from page 11 squad going to Boise are Isaiah Dargan, Esteban Berumen, Michael Guerrero, Mario Matute, Israel “Izzy” Murguia, Ryan Ringelstein, Jonathan “Sho” Silvan, Javier Valencia, Juan Velazquez, Reymond Velente and Derek Wilcox. Last month, Diablo FC 95
went to Nevada and won the Las Vegas College Showcase tournament, going undefeated with wins over teams from Colorado, Arizona, Oregon and Cal South. The club’s U16 boys team, coach Marquis White’s Diablo FC 94, hoped to follow up on its
championship in the 12th annual Diablo Cup when the team traveled to San Diego for the Nomads Coaches Showcase last month. The team earned a championship game berth before wet weather forced a cancellation of the finale. The two finalists, Diablo FC 94 and Nevada’s No. 1 team Las Vegas Premier 95 White, went directly to penalty kicks. Las Vegas won
the shootout and the title 3-1. Diablo FC 94, which had won the prestigious Surf Cup last summer in San Diego, drew one and won three games to reach the Nomad semi-finals. They came away with a 1-0 win over San Diego Surf White before suffering the disappointment of not being able to play the final game. After these strong spring results, Diablo FC 95 is now ranked 15th nationally in U15 boys while Diablo FC 94 moved into the U16 top 50 in GotSoccer’s national ratings. Diablo FC’s spring tournament, the Diablo Cup, proved bittersweet for the local club. In the four girls brackets, a Diablo FC team reached the championship game in every age group yet all four teams lost in the finals by a single goal. On the boys side, Diablo FC 94 won the U16 bracket by defeating Nevada’s No. 3 team, Sagebrush SC Vipers Red, while Diablo FC was also second in U18 and U14 age groups
April 29, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Assembly, from page 9 Sophomore Mandalyn Savage’s dance performance turned into a creative two-person routine when Ted Hall leapt from his front row seat in the bleachers and joined in. “It was pretty exciting when Ted jumped out of the stands and started dancing,” said junior
Safety,
Assessment, from page 1
from page 7 It is important that neighbors know the people who are expected in the area, such as cleaning and gardening workers. I know that my neighbors have their lawns mowed on Tuesday or Friday. If I see something other than a red pickup across the street on Tuesday morning, I may be concerned. In Clayton, the Police Department coordinates a Neighborhood Watch Program that could be of benefit for all neighborhoods. There have been a number of presentations for Clayton residents in the last few years. Most recently, there were presentations for Black Diamond residents and in Peacock Creek. On Nov. 19, 2010, the Pioneer article “Neighborhood Watch gets results in Peacock Creek” documented the success of implementing some of the recommendations in an effort to reduce undesired activity in the neighborhood. During Neighborhood Watch presentations, which take about 1½ hours, there are discussions about suspicious activity and suspicious vehicles, home security, solicitations, reporting information and identity theft. Also discussed are some of the latest scams taking place. One great benefit of having a Neighborhood Watch meeting is the opportunity to meet and know your neighbors. If you know your neighbors and exchange information about who is “authorized” in the area to do gardening, home maintenance, etc., or just visiting for a period of time, then residents are aware of who should or should not be in the neighborhood. If you want to have a meeting in your neighborhood, contact the Clayton Police at 673-7350. Email Herb hlyonge@att.net
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Taylor Wingard, “I wasn’t expecting it at all.” “I loved jumping out of the stands and surprising people,” said Hall, a junior. “It was fun to be able to experience the assembly as both a performer onstage and from the stands as a member of the audience.”
The Latin dancing performances also created buzz. Both couples, one of current students the other of alumni gone pro, danced with spice and drama. But what really kept students’ attention was how the men threw, flipped and held their partners repeatedly in such crazy ways. This level of intensity and suspense was also found in the color guard act, which took on
at
enough to close the $2.8 million deficit facing the district next year. The assessment was originally set to go before the East County Board of Directors at the April 4 meeting, but the engineer’s report was incomplete. The report will be presented at the May 2 meeting, says Henderson. “We want to be sure we have a prudent, fully defendable assessment before we move forward,” Henderson says. If approved, the assessment will provide sufficient funding to keep open all fire stations in the district, including the Marsh Creek Sunshine Station that was threatened with closure during the non-fire season months. During the fire season, the station is operated by the state. The plan will also provide for full staffing at all of the stations and will begin a paramedic program. The district currently relies on ambulances for life-saving services.
Henderson expects the board to approve the engineer’s report and call for the election at the May 2 meeting in time to mail out ballots by the June 16 deadline. If passed, the assessment would be on the 2011-’12 tax roll. The assessment affects property owners in the rural areas of Clayton along Marsh Creek and Morgan Territory roads. FIRE INSURANCE NO LONGER A CRISIS
Last year October, East County Fire closed the Sunshine Station to save the district the $366,000 it pays CalFire to staff the station during the non-fire season.. A grassroots reaction from Clayton’s rural property owners forced East County to reconsider and they drew from reserves to reopen the station November 1. With the Sunshine station in jeopardy, homeowner insurance rates began to double and triple. Several homeowners were can-
Mayor, from page 1 town, we have kids either entering or rapidly approaching high school and there is considerable concern about the quality of their school experience. Horror stories come second, third and fourth hand about bullying, drugs, “romance” (in quotes because it has more meaning than that, but this is a family paper), unsafe and unclean conditions, etc. at Clayton Valley High School. As a graduate of CVHS and with a child set to enter high school next year, I am concerned. But a ray of light has entered this tale with the announcement of the potential for CVHS to become a charter school (“CVCHS”). Since the first meeting I was asked to come to about planning this charter, where I knew nothing, to today where multiple public meetings have taken place and the plan is in full planning stage (see accompanying article with more details), the excitement is palpable in the community. At a meeting on Monday, approximately 150 people packed our library meeting room to hear the teachers behind this movement and a charter consultant outline their vision and discuss the pros and cons of a charter school. The interest in improving CVHS was 100 percent and it appeared the vast majority were behind the charter idea. To be fair, not all questions were answered to everyone’s satisfaction and the
plan specifics are still being worked out for budgeting, administration, teaching standards, contracts, etc. But that did not appear to dampen the crowd’s enthusiasm for the idea. What was clear was that a charter school would increase the per student amount of money given to the school. It would be locally administered and would include specific and uniform codes of conduct geared toward restoring respect and following rules to make it easier for the teachers to teach. The loudest cheers and applause came when the crowd was informed that uniforms can be implemented to eliminate issues with inappropriate fashions and any gang identification. In short, charter schools are growing in California, and CVCHS could act as a shining example for the Bay Area. Granada Hills Charter High School in Southern California has a 99 percent graduation rate with 98 percent of their graduates attending college of some sort. Attendance rate is 98 percent and the school has top API (Academic performance index) scores. Clayton Valley organizers envision the same results for
Page 13
an extreme and rock ’n’ roll angle. For junior Ryan Dodge, this was the favorite act. “I thought the color guard act was interesting,” he said, “and it had good music.” Overall, the assembly was hailed as a massive success for straying from the traditional. “This was the best rally we’ve had so far,” Wingard concluded.
celled by insurance companies that followed Insurance Standards Office stiff underwriting guidelines requiring homes to be no further than five miles from a fire station. ISO also imposes heavy staffing requirements that the district cannot meet. State Farm Insurance, however, sets their own underwriting guidelines and does not use the ISO standards, says local agent Doug Van Wyck. “We’ve been writing policies out there for 30 years and continue to do so,” he says. “As long as property owners in wildfire areas clear their properties and are in compliance with local fire codes, we have no problem insuring rural properties.” Van Wyck is in the Village Oaks building, 6200 Center Street, Clayton. For more information call (925) 6722300. For more information on the benefit assessment district, including the agenda and staff reports, go to www.eccfpd.org. Board meetings are at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 3231 Main St., Oakley.
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our kids with a charter school. What is most amazing to me is that in over a decade of involvement in politics in Clayton, every issue has had both proponents and detractors. The lone exception —CVCHS! That is unheard of in politics and I think proof of the soundness of the idea and the need to improve existing conditions at CVHS. As this moves forward, it will be vital for all interested parents, even if your child is only a toddler, to inform themselves and to make their support heard to the teachers at CVHS and to the Mt. Diablo Unified School District, which will be deciding whether to approve the charter. To this end, please go to Facebook and search “Clayton Valley Charter High School” or t o https://sites.google.com/site/ claytonvalleycharterhighschool to learn more and show your support. You may also email me at shuey@rankinlaw.com. As John F. Kennedy once said, “Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education. The human mind is our fundamental resource.” Email the mayor shuey@rankinlaw.com
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Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
April 29, 2011
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. MAY 4 FOR THE MAY 13 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
IN CLAYTON April 30-May 1 Clayton Art & Wine Festival Premium wine and beer, 125 arts and crafts exhibits, Kiddieland and live entertainment. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. April 30 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 1, Main Street. Free admission. Sponsored by the Clayton Business and Community Association, with proceeds supporting community groups and projects. 672-2272. May 1 “Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North” An award-winning documentary in which producer/director Katherine Browne tells the story of her forefathers, Rhode Islanders who were the largest slave-trading family in U.S. history. 1 p.m., followed by discussion. St. John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road. Free. 672-8855. May 6-7 Clayton Gardens Tour Sponsored by the Clayton Historical Society. Self-guided tour of six gardens begins at the Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. rain or shine. $25, or $30 at the door. Fifth ticket free. Purchase tickets at the museum or R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens, 6780 Marsh Creek Road. 672-0240 or claytonhistory.org. May 7, 14, 21, 28 Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown. pcfma.com. May 7 Cover2Cover Concert The high-energy dance band kicks off the summer Concerts in The Grove with a variety of music spanning five decades. 6-8:30 p.m., Grove Park, downtown. Set up chairs and blankets on the lawn after 4 p.m. Free. For a complete concert series schedule, see Page 3. May 30 Memorial Day Program Presented by VFW Post 1525, 10 a.m.-noon, downtown flagpole, Main and Oak streets. Free. Call Pete at 682-6533.
EVENTS/ENTERTAINMENT April 28-May 15 “The Lady With All The Answers” An evening with Ann Landers presented by CenterRep. Thursdays through Sundays at the Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. For tickets call (925) 943-SHOW (7469) or purchase online at www.centerrep.org April 29-May 21 “Visiting Mr. Green” A funny and heart-warming story of a retired man and a young corporate executive. Presented by Diablo Actors Ensemble. $10-$25. 1345 Locust St., Walnut Creek. diabloactors.com. April 30 Astronomy Program “Are We Alone? A Discussion of Alien Life.” Sponsored by the Mt. Diablo Astronomical Society. 7 p.m. (but enter the park at least 45 minutes earlier), lower summit parking lot, Mt. Diablo. $10 park entrance. 837-2525 or mdas.net. Through April 30 “Twelfth Night, or What You Will” Butterfield 8 Productions in Concord presents this Shakespeare favorite adapted for alternating all male and all female casts. Tickets $12-18. Purchase online at www.brownpapertickets.com or call (925) 838-3006. Through April 30 “To Kill a Mockingbird” Center Repertory presents the timeless classic about ignorance, prejudice and integrity. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $36-$42. 943-SHOW or centerrep.org. May-September Summer Concert Series Music and Market Series, noon-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays May-June. Blues, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays in July. Music and Market Series, 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays May 5-Sept 15. Special events: Mother’s Day 2-4 p.m. May 8, Father’s Day June 19, 4th of July, National Night Out Aug 2. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free. 671-3464. May 6, 7 “Cosmos: A Musical Journey Through the Elements” Featuring Tapestry vocal and hand bell ensemble. 7 p.m. May 6, United Methodist Church, 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek. Followed by a pie party. 7 p.m. May 7, First United Methodist Church, 1600 Bancroft Ave., San Leandro. Refreshments following. Free admission, with a free-will donation for Smile Train. www.tapestryringersandsingers.org. May 12-June 4 “Chicago” The Willows presents this award-winning musical of flash, sass and tabloid murders. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $22$32. 798-1300 or www.willowstheatre.org. May 13-22 “The King & I” The Vagabond Players and El Campanil Children’s Theatre present the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical. El Campanil Theatre, 602 West 2nd St., Antioch. 689-3368. May 14 “America’s Got Talent” Comes to Town Finalist Lawrence Beamen joins area resident Art Watkins for a benefit concert for St. Bonaventure’s new Youth Ministry Center. 7:30 p.m., 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. $25, or $10 for children 12 and under. Free child care. Brownpaperticket.com. May 15 Diablo Symphony Violinist Linda Wang with works by Tchaikovsky and Brahms. 2 p.m., Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$20. 943-7469 or lesherartscenter.org.
May 18 River Rock Casino Trip Meet at 8:45 a.m. at Diamond Terrace Retirement Community, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Return home at 6 p.m. $25, includes $5 food coupon and $20 gaming coupons. RSVP to 524-5100 by May 4.
Through May 17 Paws to Read Children in grades 1-5 who have trouble reading can read aloud to a therapy dog. 4-4:25 or 4:35-5 p.m. Tuesdays. Registration by a parent required.
June 16 “Europe Through the Back Door” Travel writer Rick Steves headlines the Contra Costa County Library’s Summer Reading Festival. 7 p.m., Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10. 943-SHOW, lesherartscenter.org or ccclib.org
Through June 2 Picture Book Time Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. Drop in 11 am. Thursdays.
FUNDRAISERS April 30 United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation Vegas Night To raise money for all sports in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. 6 p.m.-midnight, Concord Hilton, 1970 Diamond Blvd. $50, includes dinner and gambling chips. www.unitedmtdiabloathletics.org. May 7 E-Waste Drop-Off To benefit 2011 Grad Night at Clayton Valley High School. Donate monitors, computers, laptops, TVs, stereos, copiers, fax machines, DVD/VHS/CD players, cell phones, car batteries, cardboard, metal, paper products. Other items accepted for minimal fee. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., CVHS, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. rapidrecycle.net or 6718008. May 14 Clayton Valley Garden Club Plant Sale 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Endeavor Hall, 6000 Center St., Clayton. 672-5079. May 14 Music Festival Showcase and Benefit Mt. Diablo Music Foundation presents music students from all levels of MDUSD schools in a fundraiser to benefit the music programs in the MDUSD schools. 2 p.m. at the Sleep Train Pavilion May 15 Animals on Broadway A benefit for Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF). Onemile pet walk, pet wellness fair, adoptions. 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek. Free admission. arf.net or 296-3118. May 19 “Jog for Japan” A walk/jog-a-thon at Pine Hollow Middle School to donate to Japanese earthquake/tsunami victims. Make checks payable to Red Cross and bring to the school office, 5522 Pine Hollow Road, Concord. 672-5444, ext. 5500.
CITY MEETINGS May 3, 17 Clayton City Council 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. May 10, 24 Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
CLUBS 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 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. On May 11, Laura Allen will talk about the use of gray water. Contact Nancy at 673-3522 or claytonvalleygardenclub.org. Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. second Tuesday of the month except July and August, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. 672-1163. 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 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.
May 26 Skipolini’s/Grad Night To benefit the June 7 Grad Night at Clayton Valley High School. 1033 Diablo St., Clayton. Print flier at www.cvhs.mdusd.org.
Contra Costa Genealogical Society Meets 7 p.m. second Thursday of the month, LDS Church, 1360 Alberta Way, Concord. cccgs.ca@gmail.com.
SCHOOLS
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.
May 5 Family Game Night Live interactive “Jeopardy,” plus math and strategy games for current and incoming middle school students and their families. Chips, salsa and beverages. 7 p.m., Diablo View Middle School Multi-Use Room, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. Pamandleonhall@aol.com. May 10, 24 Mt. Diablo Unified School District Board 7:30 p.m., 1936 Carlotta Dr., Concord. mdusd.org. June 12 Retirement Party/St. Agnes School Principal To honor Karen Mangini’s 21+ year commitment. Mass at 1 p.m., St. Agnes Church, 3966 Chestnut Ave., Concord. Dinner reception, 6 p.m., Concord Hilton, 1970 Diamond Blvd. $35, $25 young adults. RSVP by June 6. stagnesconcord.com or call Lisa at 586-7647.
CHURCHES & RELIGION May 6 Baha’is of Clayton All are invited to an evening of interaction and fellowship. The talk is “Which is Right: Science or Religion?” with speaker Edward Langthorn, a lawyer, engineer, teacher and researcher. 7:30 p.m., Toloui residence in Clayton. Free. 672-6686. May 18 Concord United Methodist Women Discussion of the Layette Project with Barbara Cotton. 10 a.m. meeting, 11 a.m. program, noon luncheon. Bring an item for babies under age 1. 1645 West St., Concord. RSVP to Linda at 510-7584837.
AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. 673-0659 or claytonlibrary.org. May 9, June 13 Book Club Sunny Solomon leads a discussion. Anyone welcome to join the club. May 9: “Still Alice” by Lisa Genova. June 13: “Breakfast at Sally’s: One Homeless Man’s Inspirational Journey” by Richard LeMieux. 7 p.m. Through May 10 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. Drop in 11 a.m. Tuesdays.
Creekside Artists Guild Meets 7-8:30 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, 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. East Bay Prospectors Meets 6:30 p.m. first Thursday of the month, Oasis Christian Fellowship, 2551 Pleasant Hill Road, Pleasant Hill. Clayton resident Douglas “Pucky” Junghans is the founder. 672-1863 or eastbaygpaa.webs.com. Knights Of Columbus, Concord Council 6038 Meets 7:30 p.m. first Tuesday of the month, St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Officers meet third Wednesday at St. Agnes Church, 3966 Chestnut St., Concord. Contact Rayce at 6839717 or rayce@aol.com. Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise 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 scrabbleassoc.com. Sons In Retirement (SIRs) Branch 19 meets 11:15 a.m. first Thursday of the month, Crown Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Dr., Concord. 429-3777. Branch 146 meets 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. second Thursday of the month. Boundary Oaks, 3800 Valley Vista Road, Walnut Creek. Call Jack at 933-7998 or sir146.com. Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista Meets 12:15 p.m. second, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month, September-June, Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Contact Nicole at 692-2224. Veterans of Foreign Wars Breakfast 8-11 a.m. second and fourth Sundays, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. $4, $2 children under 12. Word Weavers Toastmasters Meets 7-8:15 p.m. Mondays, 4756 Clayton Road, Concord. Visitors welcome. Contact Marion at 686-1818 or marion48@live.com.
April 29, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 15
PAINT SPECIAL! $
Swing from the ceiling or climb a silk rope when Levity opens in May PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer
In her black Pilates pants, with no concern about the dust and dirt on the ground, Ilima Heuerman knelt side-by-side with the flooring man. He had a question about installing the thick, two-tone hardwood floor in her new fitness studio. It was easy to imagine her gaining clients’ trust and guiding by example as they work through a new movement in their fitness regimens. Growing up, she says she was a bookworm. But she learned to surf at a young age and loved the feeling of freedom it brought her. It is easy to see from her lean physique that she has always been an athlete. Her outgoing nature makes athlete more believable than bookworm. She greets people with a big hug, a “hey, good lookin’ ” in her silky voice and an electric energy that sizzles. Levity, Heuerman’s fitness studio in downtown Clayton, debuts with an open house on May 1 during the Art & Wine Festival and regular business the following day. Heuerman grew up in Hawaii and the Bay Area. She attended college at the University of Southern California, experiencing freedom to its fullest – not only being a student on her own, but with exposure to different sports. She joined the women’s rowing team and completed her biological sciences degree in 1997. Heuerman married firefighter husband Chris the year after college and worked as a human resources coordinator. She gave birth to son Taylor in 1999 and
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
Ilima Heurman is poised to open her new Levity Fitness Studio in Flora Square on May 1. The studio will offer traditional fitness classes and training along with a chance for clients to try out new things like trapeze, exotic dancing and kickboxing.
daughter Chrystina in 2001. As a stay-at-home mom with a craving to continue her exercise, Heuerman took kick-boxing lessons and worked out in her husband’s home gym. She does not like traditional gyms because they are “crowded, impersonal, (had) broken machines, unknown machines …I also wanted to do things, select equipment I never tried,” Heuerman says. Friends encouraged Heuerman to train others from her private gym, so she started Traveling Trainers in 2008. The bookworm re-emerged and Heuerman earned numerous certifications. “I gotta know why I’m doing it,” Heuerman says about understanding the mechanics of different movements and exercises. In March 2010, Heuerman toured Clayton’s Flora Square looking for space for the trainers.
She was inspired by the more than 16-foot-high ceilings and created a vision to optimize the space. Heuerman prides herself that Levity is not a gym; it is a fitness studio. Clients do not do selfpaced, machine-based workouts but instead meet with a personal trainer to create a custom program and work in ratios of two to three people with one trainer, depending on the type of training. Clients use their body as leverage to reach health goals. This summer, they will have the unique chance to try aerial arts – trapeze swinging and silk tissue climbing. Heuerman has four people currently on staff, and she trained them all herself. Client-turned-trainer Jeanine DeSoto met Heuerman when DeSoto and her mother, Ann Napolis, took Heuerman’s boot camp training class to battle some
physical ailments. She attributes her success to Heuerman’s ability to make clients feel comfortable by breaking goals into realistic steps. DeSoto continued training with Heuerman and is studying for her personal training certification to start as one of Levity’s trainers when the doors open in May. DeSoto says there “will always be something for everyone who walks through the door.” Despite painful arthritis at times, Napolis is able to enjoy cycling as a result of boot camp and continued training. “I love Ilima,” Napolis says of Heuerman’s ability to not only make clients feel comfortable, but to push them according to their ability. In the midst of checking the progress of the sponge and hardwood floor installations at the studio, Heuerman races from one thought to the next. Levity is a testing ground to challenge herself to branch out. She has plans for a summer youth program and Webcast. “I love this business,” Heuerman says. “The physical transcends to the inside. I see people really feel their better self.” Motivating people to take action is her inspiration, reflected in Levity’s mantra: “Uplifting your body, mind & spirit.” And to keep that feeling of freedom, Heuerman says, “I’ll be here, swingin’ from the vine.” Visit Levity during the Art & Wine Festival, 1-4 p.m. Sunday, May 1. Opening day is May 2. The studio is at 1026 Oak St., Suite 202, Clayton. For details, call 890-6931 or go to levityfitness.com.
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327 Semillon Circle
$529,000 Spectacular Clayton one-story rancher situated on a spacious corner lot. Fantastic setting! Quiet neighborhood in lower Easley Estates. Dual Panes. Crown molding. Hardwood floors. RV/Boat parking. Outside additional office. Pool size backyard. Large side yard.
5273 Pine Hollow Road
$759,000 A must see! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths approx. 3300 sq. ft. Spectacular layout on a quiet, private driveway. RV/Boat parking. In-ground pool. 2500 watt Solar Voltaic system. Many upgrades
1065 Baja Ct. Pittsburg
$209,000 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath. PREMIUM lot located at end of court. Many upgrades inside and out. Possible pool lot size. Large storage shed. RV/Boat parking. Updated carpet and paint.
Still seeking licensed sales agents to complete our team. NO FEES. Come join
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Matt Mazzei, Jr. Broker/Owner DRE# 01881269
First Class Service If you are thinking about selling your home, CALL US. We want to earn your business and we will save you money.
mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959
925-693-0757 (Main)
925-766-6745 mazzeirealty@yahoo.com
6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton
925-693-0752 (Fax)
Page 16
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Advertise in the Pioneer
April 29, 2011
May Day a European tradition When the cookies have turned golden brown, remove and drain on paper towels. Dust room-temperature cookies with powdered sugar.
Est.1972
Smith & Bernal
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This enchanting 4 bedroom/3bath + Bonus studio is beautifully designed in the California Craftsman inspired style. Meticulously maintained and appointed with highest quality both inside and out. Styled in concert with the lush natural landscape and majestic oaks that surround it. TOP Orinda Schools. Offered at $929,000
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Fantastic Contemporary Cottage nestled amidst spectacular views of Mt. Diablo. 4 bedroom 2 bath single level – Updated throughout. New floors, new windows, epoxy garage floor – turn key! Wonderful private courtyard, “multi-budding tree” orchard with 14 different fruits. Great corner lot at cul-de-sac.
www.CheyenneDrive.com
Light bright contemporary 4 bedroom 2 bath Northgate rancher on a wonderful flat .27 acre lot! Beautiful updates inside and out. Walk to K-12. All 10++ schools within less than a mile from home. Great family home! Offered at $839,000.
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nsg i d n Pe 5 day in
Completely updated! Hardwood floor, gorgeous tile, & NEW carpet. Kitchen & bath cabinets all redone. New lighting, paint, spa shower fixture, & much more. Sparkles & bathed in natural light. Vaulted ceilings, large landscaped lot, spa, patio, lawns & grapes! Super location. Epoxy Garage Floor!! Listed at $345,000!
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May 1, or May Day, is an ancient Celtic tradition that began in England and spread throughout most of Europe. The Beltane rituals celebrated fertility and renewal with bonfires, feasting and dancing. When the Romans conquered Britain, they brought their own tradition of the festival of Floralia to honor the goddess of flowers. The beribboned Maypole dance evolved from the mix of the two cultures. During the English Reformation in the 1600s, festivities having pagan roots were suppressed. It is not surprising then that May Day traditions did not make it to American shores with the Puritans and their kin. Elsewhere on the European continent, however, May Day remains a celebratory day marked by bonfires and festivals. In Germany, Maiwein is a traditional beverage. Young wine is enhanced with an herb, sweet woodruff. Sometimes it’s a wine punch flavored with herbs, fruits, berries and flowers. Sima, a version of mead, is served on May Day in Finland. The Finns love to celebrate May Day with tippaleivät, which resembles a miniature and lesssweet version of county fair funnel cakes. TIPPALEIVÄT 2 eggs 1 T. sugar ¾ tsp. salt ¾ c. milk 1½ c. flour ½ tsp. vanilla Oil, for frying Powdered sugar, for dusting Mix the eggs and sugar until just combined. Add the other ingredients, except for the oil and powdered sugar, and stir into a smooth batter. Heat the oil (about 2-3 inches deep) in a deep saucepan until it reaches 375°. Put the batter into a pastry bag fitted with a small-holed nozzle. Squeeze the batter in a thin band into the hot oil. Move in overlapping circles to form a nest-like cookie 3-4 inches in diameter.
In Italy, May Day foods characteristically have “seven” of each ingredient. For example, in Abruzzo, a soup by the name of “The Seven Virtues” is made from leftovers in the pantry. It’s basically a jazzed-up version of minestrone. MINESTRONE LE SETTE VIRTU Serves 6 7 kinds of dried beans 7 kinds of fresh vegetables (this recipe calls for onion, garlic, fennel, artichokes, fava beans, carrots and green beans) 7 freshly minced herbs (basil, sage, oregano, thyme, marjoram, parsley and mint*) 7 c. stock (made from leftover meat) 7 kinds of leftover dried pasta (1-2 T. each) Olive oil
TIPPALEIVÄT Salt and pepper to taste Chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese for service Soak ½ c. mixed dried beans in cold water overnight. Rinse, drain and set aside. Preheat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add 2 T. olive oil and 1 chopped onion. Saute the onion, stirring occasionally, until
it is tender and translucent. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add one chopped bulb of fennel (discard the fronds) and the prepared beans. Add the stock and bring soup to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes, or until beans are almost tender.
See Food, page 17
Take a Hike
Free Audible Guides for Mt. Diablo hikers Photo by Scott Hein, www.heinphoto.com
Hikers look towards the Summit Loop in Mount Diablo’s Back Canyon
April is Earth-Day month, which neatly coincides with prime wildflower season on Mount Diablo. There’s no better time to get outside and enjoy your own backyard. Before you go, you might want to check out “Audible Mount Diablo,” a series of electronic field guides from Save Mount Diablo, Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association and the California State Parks Foundation. The free guides, offered by Save Mount Diablo, Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association and the California State Parks Foundation, can be downloaded to an iPhone, iPod or other MP3 player. Modeled after the best museum audio guides, “Audible Mount Diablo” combines lively inter-
views and music with the rush of wind and the chirps, howls, and growls of wildlife. Experts heighten visitors’ appreciation of the sights and sounds, tell tales of the mountain’s past, and suggest what to look for around the next bend. “These tours are great aids to exploring Mount Diablo,” says Save Mount Diablo’s Julie Seelen. The tours include “Introducing, Mount Diablo”, “Grand Loop Tour” and the “Mary Bowerman Tour.” The tours are all free at www.savemountdiablo.org (click on Activities, then Hikes and Trails) or www.mdia.org (click on “Audible Mount Diablo”). A GPS-enabled version of the Grand Loop tour is also available at EveryTrail.com.
April 29, 2011
Arbutus_marina
There’s a list of plants I consider mom-worthy – ones I would have my own mother grow. They are sturdy, showy, simple plants that look good with minimal care. My parents travel but they like their Clayton Valley yard to look good, so here is what I have my mother grow in her landscape and garden. Cestrum Newellii, Red Cestrum, is an evergreen shrub
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL with an exceptionally long blooming season. The flowers are tight clusters of burgundy tubes that the hummingbirds can’t resist. Cestrum Newellii has dark green foliage with a touch of red. You can expect it to grow 58 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide. Plant in full to partial morning sun against a fence or the home. This evergreen makes a nice backdrop and focal planting. SAGE ADVICE Yellow-blooming Jerusalem
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
These beauties belong in mom’s garden Red Cestrum
Sage is a must-have for anyone. This evergreen is incredibly sunhardy and has large, arrowshaped leaves of gray. From May to July, yellow whirls of two-lipped flowers extend taller than the foliage – creating a candelabra effect. The bloom is dramatic and interesting. Jerusalem Sage is nice planted by the poolside because bees aren’t too attracted to the yellow flowers. Arbutus Marina makes an excellent focal planting or hillside installation. It is commonly called a strawberry tree. This mini tree is robust and needs some room to stretch to its potential. It will eventually reach 12-15 feet tall and almost as wide. If you clean up the bottom third of this shrub, you will reveal its beautiful red, peeling bark. I like to call this its legs. Arbutus Marina is uplight worthy and makes an interesting specimen for a landscape. COLORS OF THE DAY Daisy-shaped Arctotis Peachy Mango is a showy groundcover with a little body. Large, circle-shaped growth can reach 3 feet wide and lends itself to larger beds and strips. Arctotis is available in many hot colors to reflect any gardeners’ personal choice.
Food, from page 16 Add 2 fresh, frozen or canned artichoke hearts, cut into ½-inch dice, 1 c. blanched and peeled fava beans, 1 diced carrot and ½ c. cut green beans. Continue to simmer the soup until the rest of the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Add the pasta and 1 tsp. of each herb. Simmer another 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Taste and add salt and pepper to your preference. Serve hot with a sprinkling of chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. *If using dried herbs, use ½ tsp. each. Another May Day traditional dish comes from the Piedmont region of Italy. It, too, incorporates the “seven virtues.”
HERB FRITTATA (Frittata primaverile verde alle sette erbe) Serves 2 1 T. olive oil 2 shallots, finely minced 2 tsp. each minced sage, parsley, thyme, basil, mint, marjoram and oregano* 4 eggs, beaten with 1 T. water Salt and pepper ¼ c. Parmesan cheese Preheat the oven broiler. Preheat an oven-ready 10inch non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and shallots and saute until shallots are wilted. Add the herbs and saute for 15 seconds to release their aroma. Pour in eggs and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and
This is another sun lover that does better when occasionally deadheaded. My mom has it planted with her Jerusalem Sage and roses. It really makes a nice collection. Phormium add a grass-like touch to the landscape. Phormium Platt’s Black is a stable selection flax that reaches 23 feet tall and wide. The dark, purplish-bronze foliage can really stand up to the sun. Platt’s Black adds interest and texture to shrubs and flowers. Highlight stretches of garden beds with repeated installations of this phormium, or use in containers for vertical interest surrounded with colorful Million Bell Petunias. SPIKE IT UP The tall blue spikes of flowers from Salvia Indigo Spires explode with bloom June through October. This selection of salvia is definitely mom-worthy. Bees and butterflies visit this perennial all day long. Since the Indigo Spires blooms so long, it makes for a great front-yard landscape installation. The flower is a perfect accessory to spring-blooming shrubs. Summer-flowering Crape Myrtle trees are easy to care for, have showy flowers and seasonal fall color. When supported
pepper. Stir to distribute the herbs and shallots. Cook the frittata, occasionally lifting the edges and allowing the liquid egg to spill under. When the frittata is set but still moist on top, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and transfer the skillet to the broiler. Broil until the cheese has browned. Serve immediately. *Oregano is used in this recipe as a substitute for amarelle. Known as mugwort here, it is generally not recognized in the United States as a culinary herb.
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
Page 17
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Dentistry Salvia Indigo Spires
with evergreen grasses or shrubs, the Crape Myrtle tree makes a perfect focal planting for a mini garden area. Petal drop makes the Crape Myrtle not pool-friendly, so install accordingly. Perennials planted in containers with drip system water bring interest to patio areas. I have learned that incorporating multiple plants in larger containers works best. This way, when one plant isn’t blooming, there is always another to take its place. Depending on the size of the container, consider yours an above-ground garden. Sunny plants that like to be grown in containers are sedum, iris, coreopsis, penstomen and kangaroo’s paw. If the container is located in more shade, use plants like hosta, impatiens, begonia, painted fern, hellebores and abutilon. I always try to include at least one thriller or tall plant, plus a couple fillers or medium-sized plants and a spiller or two to accent the container. The more you install, the greater the container will look. If plants overgrow the pot, put those in the ground. Happy Mother’s Day. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
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Page 18
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April 29, 2011
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