IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
925.672.0500
City’s budget balanced but precarious TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Clayton will go into the 2011-’12 fiscal year with a $3.65 million operating budget that is “austere and spartan” but balanced, city manager Gary Napper told the City Council at the June 7 meeting. “We’re really in pretty good shape, considering
where other cities are right now,” said Councilwoman Julie Pierce. The city’s budget has essentially been flat over the past three years, with declining real estate values and state take-aways putting pressure on the city at every turn. The city has kept the budget balanced through cuts to every non-essential program, a tight rein on expenditures, furlough
days and concessions amounting to more than $300,000 by the city’s 26 employees – all without cutting services or drawing on reserves, Napper said. The total city budget, which includes the general fund, capital improvements and replacements, special districts, restricted funds and the Redevelopment Agency, is $14,565,197 – down $21,376
from last year. At $1.524 million, the capital improvement budget includes the community park parking lot expansion currently underway (half of the cost of this project comes from East Bay Regional Park District grant), some neighborhood street repairs and paving, enlarging the sewer line under
See Budget, page 18
General Fund Operating Budget 2011-12 Engineering $96,448 Library $130,589
Community Park Legislative $176,574 $59,448
Admin/Finance $833,745 Public Works $120,897 Comm. Dev. $255,833
Police $1,834,622 Total: $3,651,536
Gen. Support $143,380 Source-City of Clayton
Clayton Fountain still green, less thirsty TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
DAVE SHUEY
MAYOR’S CORNER
A call to letters First, I wanted to thank all of you that have sent in your emails of support for the Clayton Valley High School charter conversion. I believe we are now over 1,000 supporters, which is amazing but not enough. We need everyone, and I mean everyone, in the Clayton Valley draw area, including you Concordians who read this paper, to send in your support. This is whether your kids/grandkids go there, will go there, have gone there and even if you don’t have any kids but want your property values to go
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
THE NEW FOUNTAIN LANDSCAPING AT THE CORNER OF CLAYTON ROAD AND OAKHURST BLVD., was finished last week. The landscaping is low-maintenance, drought tolerant and complies with water conservation and stormwater management requirements. The fountain is a favorite spot for local photographers.
City crews finished the relandscaping of the Clayton Fountain last week with a splash of green sod across the front. The new design is droughttolerant and low maintenance and reduces the previous lawn area by 65 percent. Bioswales in the median and at the east end of the fountain are designed to manage storm water, filtering it and sending it back into the ground instead of allowing it to run off into the storm drains. The new landscaping replaces the high maintenance, water thirsty lawns and annuals that died in last year’s drought. After some initial criticism of the starkness of the design, public reaction to the finished product has been overwhelmingly positive, says Maintenance Supervisor Mark Janney.
See Fountain, page 17
See Mayor, page 9
Shutterbugs Enter the Clayton Pioneer’s
Photo Contest Cash Prizes
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
See July 4 story for details
Pancakes, parade, photo contest mark July 4 “The Spirit of America in Clayton” is the theme for this year’s 4th of July celebration Independence Day starts early in Clayton – at 7 a.m., with a pancake breakfast cooked by the Clayton Valley/Sunrise Rotary Club at Endeavor Hall. This is a major fundraiser for the club which supports local youth camps and programs, the library and charities including the Food Bank. At 9 a.m., the kids beginning lining up for the kiddie parade which begins at 10 a.m. Kids on foot, on bikes and trikes, in wagons and strollers, on scooters and on dad’s shoulders with everything, including the family dog, decked out in red, white and blue parade down Main Street. Following the kiddie parade, Emcee ABC7 News Anchor Dan Ashley joins the spectators and local choir Yesterday’s Kids in singing the National Anthem and the
first of the local dignitaries in convertibles begin to roll down Main Street. ENTER THE PHOTO CONTEST Capture the moment and share your favorite images of the day with the Pioneer readers. Enter the 9th annual Clayton Pioneer July 4 Photo Contest. The contest is open to all adults (over 12) and kids (12 and under.) who live in the Clayton Pioneer distribution area. The winning photos will be published in the July 15 issue of the Pioneer. Each individual may submit up to three photos, but only one of those photos can win a prize. Submit snapshot size prints – 3” x 5”, 4” x 6” or 5” x 7”. Photos must have been taken during this year’s July 4 Celebration in downtown Clayton. On the back of each photo, put your name, address, phone number and whether you are entering as an adult or a child.
The Clayton City Council has had it with vandals. City officials are fed up with the cost of replacing broken fences, gazebo slats and washing graffiti off the tunnel walls. So they want to put security cameras in strategic locations around town in hopes of catching the culprits who repeatedly damage city property. This year, there have been 41 vandalism acts reported to police, Chief Dan Lawrence reported at the June 7 City
See July 4, page 3
See Vandals, page 13
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . .15 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
City has a plan to spy on vandals
Community Calendar . . . .14 Concert Schedule . . . . . . . .3 Directory of Advertisers . . . .5
DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . .7 Financial Sense . . . . . . . . .9 Fit with Levity . . . . . . . . . .16 Food for Thought . . . . . . .17 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . .18
TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Letters to the Editor . . . . . .9 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Safety Zone . . . . . . . . . . . .18 So Anyway . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sports Shorts . . . . . . . . . . .11 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
Around Town Brownies say Night Night to Crisis Nursery
TROOP 33065 BROWNIES LEXI CICHURSKI, Caela Hetherton, Angela Kaplan and Emma Leong show the blankets they made for Project Night Night for the Bay Area Crisis Nursery.
Brownie Troop 33065 made blankets for Project Night Night to complete one of their service requirements. The girls filled bags with the blankets, books and stuffed animals and donated them to the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. The girls used their cookie sale proceeds to buy the bags and supplies. The troop delivered the bags on May 26, and leaned about BACN from Sandy Hathaway. The troop used remaining cookie sales proceeds for their bridging celebration at Castle Rock Arabians on June 9. They learned about horse behavior and safety, groomed and rode the horses. Each girl crossed a bridge led by a horse named Shadow, symbolizing their transition from Brownies to Girl Scouts.
Pioneer and readers hit the road
Clayton
Roundhill Country Club! Spectacular single story
Chaparral Springs at Oakhurst Country Club!
on a park-like elevated lot! High end-no expense spared remodel and expansion with exquisite attention to detail! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,637sf. Extensive use of slab granite, onyx & marble, German Ghroe fixtures, Lucas audio systems, 3 zone HVAC, & 3 fireplaces. Totally private lot offers black tumbled slate patio & trex deck, elaborate Koi pond! A must see! $1,298,000
Clayton
5 bedroom, 3.5 bath, approx. 3,584sf & 3 car garage. Full bedroom & bath on 1st floor. $649,000
CVHS senior Sarah Rosen will serve as a general assignment reporter in a journalism internship program at UC Berkeley this summer. Sarah will serve as a general assignment reporter for the Daily Cal, the university's independent, student-run newspaper. Sarah, a student reporter for the Clayton Pioneer, joined the staff in her sophomore year and has been a regular contributor to the Teen Speak column as well as covering student and youth-related news stories.
SARAH ROSEN
Broker
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
georgevujnovich.com
Better Homes DRE#00933393
Ironwood/Windmill Canyon at Oakhurst Country Club!
Super Single story “Augusta” 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1816sf, inside laundry & 2 car attached garage! Spacious combined living & dining rooms. Family room adjoins family room with fireplace. Large level lot with lawn areas and patio offers views of surrounding hills. $429,900
Clayton
Clayton
PENDING
CVHS student reporter interns for Cal paper
Manzanita model offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,355sf , inside laundry & 2 car attached garage! Walk to downtown, trails & community pool! Short Sale
Coming Soon!
Crystyl Ranch! Gorgeous!
donate at the Contra Costa Blood Center. He has donated 141 pints to date. Kimura takes pride in his many volunteer efforts and encourages others to share their time with at least one volunteer organization.
GEORGE VUJNOVICH
PENDING
Country living right on the edge of town! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,306 sq. feet!
KATHERINE CROW AND DON KIMURA
Helping friends, neighbors & newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979
Clayton
4.58 Acre Horse Property!
Clayton resident Don Kimura was featured on the cover of the spring issue of John Muir’s Caring Hands volunteer caregivers’ newsletter. Kimura has over four years and 800 hours with the program. Kimura visits 86-year-old Katherine Crow and gives her rides to medical/dental appointments, shopping and the movie theatre. Crow says Kimura has become a great friend. Kimura takes 90-year-old Bruce Good in his wheelchair for walks to Heather Farm Park. Kimura is also a volunteer counselor for the Diablo Valley Literacy Council since October 2010 and meets with his students three hours a week for conversations in English. Kimura started donating blood while in the United States Air Force and continues to
DIDN’T WE TELL YOU WE WERE GOIN’ TO SHANGHAI? We tagged along last month when the Wolfe family traveled to Shanghai. We went through the Yu Gardens and ferried over to the Pearl Tower in Pudong to stand on it’s glass floor over 1500 feet in the air. That was a strange feeling. We also took in the sights of various neighborhoods, where many locals took photos of us as though we were celebrities! This was CW Wolfe’s fourth trip to Shanghai. “It has vastly changed over the years,” he says, “to become a vital, world-class city, while still keeping it’s truly Chinese flavor.”
SINGING IN CHI TOWN Clayton residents Tammy Slezak and Lena Foggiato-Bish were in Chicago over Memorial Day where Slezak rehearsed for four days with an international Baha’i choir. The choir included 220 singers from ten countries, all with various cultural and religious backgrounds. The choir sang in the 2011 Baha’i Choral Festival at the Baha’i Temple on May 29. Following the two free public concerts on Sunday, the two did some local sightseeing, taking the Pioneer along for company. The two are already planning a return trip for next year’s choir festival.
Alamo
Don Kimura recognized by JMMC Caring Hands
Peacock Creek! Immaculate Single Story “Bainbridge” model!
SOLD tucked away on a quiet court at the top of Peacock Creek on a premium lot backing and adjacent to open space! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,030sf , 3 car garage! Large level .27 acre lot boasts sprawling lawns and extensive patio areas with views of open space & hills! $719,000
(925)
672-4433
6160 Center St., Suite E, Clayton Clayton Market Update provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS
PRICE
56 Barcelona Way ....................$580,000 3066 Windmill Canyon Dr ........$500,000 972 Kenston Drive....................$439,000 4903 Keller Ridge Drive ...........$243,350 1415 Greystone Ln...................$335,000 470 Obsidian Way ....................$630,000 1539 OHara Court....................$307,500 20 Mount Wilson Way ..............$225,000 301 Saclan Terrace ..................$360,000 436 Mount Sequoia Ct .............$645,000 5472 Tara Drive ........................$374,000 7007 Molluk Way......................$569,000 404 Hummingbird Pl.................$375,000 5471 Tara Drive ........................$291,300 1554 OHara Court....................$333,000
SF . . . . .2032 . . . . .2315 . . . . .1510 . . . . .1252 . . . . .1891 . . . . .2455 . . . . .1436 . . . . .1378 . . . . .1749 . . . . .2691 . . . . .1739 . . . . .2680 . . . . .1493 . . . . .1436 . . . . .1256
BED/BATH
SALE DATE
. . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . . .6/15/11 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . . .6/13/11 . . . . . .3/3 . . . . . . . . .6/10/11 . . . . . .2/2.5 . . . . . . . .6/7/11 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . . . .6/3/11 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . . . .6/3/11 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . . .6/3/11 . . . . . .2/2.5 . . . . . . . .6/2/11 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . . . .6/1/11 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . . . .5/27/11 . . . . . .4/3 . . . . . . . . .5/27/11 . . . . . .4/3 . . . . . . . . .5/26/11 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . .5/23/11 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . .5/19/11 . . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . . . .5/17/11
June 24, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Around Town A rousing welcome home for Cpl. Ali Beudel When former Marine Corporal Alison Buedel of Concord came home on June 11, she was surprised to see a large group of Warriors Watch Riders and other veterans groups waiting for her at the San Francisco International airport. The Warriors gave her a flag waving motorcycle escort all the way to her parent’s home in Concord. In Concord, they were joined by Concord Police Department motorcycle cops joined up who led the parade with lights flashing, sirens wailing to the house. Fire fighters from ConFire station 8 stood by to welcome her home too. The Diablo Flag Brigade, several Blue Star Moms and a representative from Supervisor Susan Bonilla’s office
s t r e c n o C The Grov in
were on hand to join in the noisy welcome home. Concord Mayor Laura Hoffmeister declared June 11 Alison Buedel day in Concord. “This is spectacular. This is the best homecoming I could have asked for,” said a very moved Buedel. What will she do for an encore? “I’m going to hit the ground running. I’m going to back to school to use my education benefits to finish my culinary arts certificate and then I’m going to study anthropology.” continued Beudel. Buedel’s husband Chip, is a Marine currently serving in Afghanistan. They hope to transfer to Camp Pendleton when he returns back to the states. - Mike Dunn
Eight Clayton scouts fly with Eagles
Page 3
e
Saturdays
6 to 8:30 p.m. At the Gazebo in The Grove Set up chairs and blankets on the lawn after 4 p.m.
July 2
Diamond Dave Vocals from classic Sinatra to HipHop
July 16 The Chicago Tribute Authority Sing and dance to Chicago’s greatest hits
July 30 The Michael Paul Band 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
July, 4
September 10 - East Bay Mudd 10-piece dance band with a Powerful horn section
from page 1 IMPORTANT: Drop off your prints and a CD at the Clayton Pioneer office NO LATER THAN 5 p.m. WEDNESDAY, July 6. Please do not e-mail photos. Photos will be judged on overall quality, composition and how well the image captures the “The Spirit of America in Clayton.”
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. Moresi’s Chophouse 6115 Main St., 672-1333 Ed’s Mudville Grill 6200 Center St., 673-0333
EIGHT LOCAL SCOUTS FROM CLAYTON’S TROOP 494 ACHIEVED THE HIGHEST LEVEL in Boy Scouts when they were presented at the Eagle Scout Court of Honor on June 8. All of the scouts completed the rigorous Eagle Scout requirements which included a major public service project. New Eagle Scouts: Mitchell D’Angina, Austin Woods, Cole Willardson, Clark Blatter, Bryan Crase, Johnny James, Brayden Moore and Garrett Blatter.
VOLUNTEERS STILL NEEDED “This beloved event still needs volunteers,” says city clerk Laci Jackson. “Most of the help is needed the day of the parade to help with early morning barricading and street closings, parking, and parade line up and clean up.” If you or your organization can help anytime between the hours of 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. call Clayton City Clerk Laci Jackson at 673-7304 or email: ljackson@ci.clayton.ca.us
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 & Café 6101 Center St., 672-1203 Cup O’Jo 6054 Main St., 672-5105
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JUST LISTED
NEW PRICE
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$435,000 5251 Clearbrook Drive, Concord Canyon Creek – Freshly painted 3BD/2.5BA offers pebble tech pool w/waterfall & spa. Delight in community amenities, updated windows, baths & solid walnut flooring. Fabulous kitchen w/granite island.
223 Mountaire Drive, Clayton $609,000 Dana Hills – 5BD/3BA model w1bd/1ba downstairs & loft area. Dining room with coffered ceilings, family room & fabulous entertainer’s kitchen. Flat backyard w/views. 223Mountaire.com
NEW PRICE
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JUST LISTED
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Clayton Resident & Broker Owner
$559,980 211 Clifford Court, Clayton Regency Woods – 4BD/2.5BA on a quiet court near trails & creek has granite kitchen & great floor plan. Enjoy flourishing gardens surrounding a sparkling pool/spa with cozy patio. RV Parking a plus.
1158 Camino Solano, Concord $459,000 Seven Oaks – Lots of possibilities at this very private property on a large lot. Updated kitchen & baths highlight a very desirable, open 4BD/2.5BA floor plan. Near to schools, parks & shopping.
DRE# 01122025
303 Saclan Terrace, Clayton
$359,900
Black Diamond – Gorgeous & spacious 3BD/2.5BA with ~2000 s.f. is open & airy. Plush landscaping, court location & views. Julie Clairmont-Baratta (925) 639-7906
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
District has 30 days to respond to CVHS charter application DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer
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The battle has begun, as organizers submitted a charter to turn Clayton Valley High School into a charter school with its own governing board. “We want to bring ‘Eagle Pride’ back to our school and back to our hearts,” reads the charter presented to the Mt. Diablo Unified School District on June 8. “We want to stop the downward trend of poor student behavior, low academic focus, lack of accountability and complacent mediocrity that has infiltrated nearly every corner of our school.” The group aims to turn a school rife with troubles into one where “rigor, relevance and relationships” are key. They say past difficulties have included test scores failing to meet administrators’ stated goals, site maintenance issues and a lack of responsiveness on the part of school and district administration to parental and staff concerns. Charter school proponents want to address school uniforms, homework policies, communications between the school
and students’ families and even the logistics of busing school athletic teams to nearby games. DISTRICT NOTES PROGRESS However, MDUSD school board officials say they are already in the process of solving these issues. Board member Sherry Whitmarsh noted that she hadn’t had a chance to comprehensively review the charter. “I know that the few pages I’ve glimpsed at, like the first three or four,” she said, “seem like something they could do by working with the new administration at the school also.” But charter proponents believe they have no recourse but to wrest the school from the district’s grasp to effect positive change. “Has anyone ever come to me with concerns about CVHS? Oh yeah. But not more than any other school,” said board president Gary Eberhart, whose daughter just graduated from CVHS. “We’ve been working on these issues with regard to CVHS for well over a year, since (Superintendent) Steven Lawrence got here. This is part of my initial conversation with him: that something needed to be done with CVHS. This is not something that was precipitated by the charter movement. This is something we’ve been working on for a long time.” Although the district has made changes, including a new principal, Whitmarsh noted that only one CVHS parent had approached her directly to ask for help with issues related to the school.
“I did know there were parents who were unhappy about things … and I had suggested that they work through the chain of command,” she said. “If it wasn’t working with the teacher, talk to the principal. If it wasn’t working with the principal, talk to (district official) Denise Rugani. If that didn’t work, talk to the board.” TIME TO START FRESH Clayton Mayor Dave Shuey has five children, one of whom plans to enter CVHS in the fall. He said he has received more than 400 emails supporting the charter effort. “I have never, never, ever seen such an outpouring of input from the citizens as I’ve gotten on this issue. It is unheard of,” he marveled. He said that while district officials may not have had a willful disregard of the problems plaguing CVHS, they lack the resources and funds to address all of the issues facing the district. “The track record with the district and bureaucracy this size, and trying to deal with 36,000 students instead of 1,800 students, you cannot have the attention to detail, the consistency, the drive and the will to effectuate the change that is necessary,” he said. “There’s an institutional inertia that’s very difficult to overcome. When you become an autonomous charter school, you don’t have to worry about that,” Shuey added. “You’re starting fresh, you’re full of piss and vinegar. You’re going to get it done.”
COST FIGURES UNCLEAR Charter advocates came up with one set of numbers as to what turning CVHS into a charter school would cost the district; the district disclosed a different figure. The blogosphere lit up with name calling and accusations reminiscent of fifthgraders on a playground as the parties squared off as to whose numbers were right. “You can make those numbers look any way that you want to, as is the case in a lot of different things,” Parent Faculty Club president Alison Bacigalupo noted. She said efforts to obtain figures related to school budgeting were met with internal confusion at the district offices. “Every single time that you call, it’s a different number. Nobody’s ever very specific,” Bacigalupo said. “It’s frustrating. The whole school funding thing, it’s so convoluted that nobody seems to really know it.” The district is required by law to hold a meeting within 30 days of receipt of the charter. As of publication time, no date has been set for a meeting. In the meantime, Sue Brothers, the new principal of CVHS, is focused on finding solutions to the problems plaguing the school. “I think whatever happens to this charter, there’s a whole lot I can do to make the situation better,” she said. “It’s really critical that whatever happens, every student who goes to Clayton Valley has a great year next year. We can’t wait to address these things, whatever happens with the charter.”
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Save the date Dana Hills Garage Sale Sept. 17
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June 24, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
County Library Commission seeking members from Clayton P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration 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
or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.
CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@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
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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 discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status
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. 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.
The Commission is accepting applications from two Clayton residents to serve as an appointed member and an alternate member. The Library Commission is organized under the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and was created to serve in an advisory capacity; provide a community linkage; establish a forum for the community to express its views regarding the goals and operations of the County Library; assist the Board of Supervisors and the County Librarian to provide library services based on assessed public need; and develop and recommend proposals to the Board of Supervisors and County Librarian. Members are appointed by the City Council from each of the 18 cities (towns) in Contra Costa County and serves from July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2013. The appointed member must attend the Library Commission Meetings and the alternate must attend meetings in the absence of the appointed member. Meetings are held quarterly at 7 p.m. at the Contra Costa County Library Headquarters, 1750 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill or other designated location. Apply in person at Clayton City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail or from the city’s website www.ci.clayton.ca.us. For more information, call 673-7300 or email ljackson@ci.clayton.ca.us. Deadline for applications is 5 p.m. July 8.
$
60
TCU Auto Loan*
Auto Economy Auto Painting and Body Work . . . . . . .757-2222 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Children’s Services Music Together of Concord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-3298 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 LHI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-9941 Smith and Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0138 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dentist Children’s Dentristy of Walnut Creek . . . . . . . . . .938-2392 Rissel, Richard D.M.D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800
511 Transit program offers free rides to school
Dining and Entertainment
The School Pool Transit Ticket Program will return Aug. 1. The program offers complimentary County Connection punch passes to middle and high school students to get to and from school. The offer is limited to two tickets per household. The SchoolPool program is sponsored by 511 Contra Costa
Events
in cooperation with local cities, the county, the Contra Costa Transportation Authority and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Applications will be available online Aug. 1-Sept. 16 at schoolpool.org/application.
Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Ravioli’s Italian Market Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-3819 Willows Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .957-2500 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 Snyder, Ken - Genworth Financial . . . . . . . . . . . .270-3617 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-877-8328 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300
Classified SERVICES French Tutor MA student living in Clayton offers French tutoring for children and adults. First session free, $30/hour after. (925) 297-9344; (925) 478-9134.
Funerals Acacia Cremation and Burial Society . . . .1-877-916-4779 Girl Gardening Garden care, monthly pruning and fertilizing services. Plant suggestions and installation. Call or email Nicole Hackett 673-1746, or gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.
Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242
Professional Housecleaner Dependable. Reliable. Flexible. Honest. I will clean your home like my own. Weekly, bi-weekly, deep cleaning. Plenty of references. I provide cleaning supplies. Call Dawn (925) 597-0883.
Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757
WANTED
The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245
Spanish Teacher Mt. Diablo Unified School District seeks Spanish Teacher for the District in Concord, CA. Teach children 9-12th grade. Develop & implement lesson plans that adhere to the State adopted curriculum & stds. Ability to address, plan, & use appropriate instructional & learning strategies, activities, materials, & equipment. Must have Bachelor’s degree any field, must pass relevant CA examinations, and ability to obtain relevant CA Single Subject Cred in Spanish. Resume to Mt Diablo Unified School District Personnel Office, 1936 Carlotta Drive, Concord, CA 94519.
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Renner, Jason D.D.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-2800
Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today (925) 672-8787.
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Page 5
Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Danmer Shutters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-1220 Navlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-0550 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Mailing and Shipping Personal Services Hair Now Styling Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5665 Sun City Tanning & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-4826 Pet Services Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Peace of Mind Pet Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9781 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 Klock, Leigh - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Laurence, Pete - RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt -Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness All Out Sports League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203-5626 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631
Subtenant Seeking subtenant to share my satellite office at 6160 Center St., Suite D in Clayton, to split $1,200 monthly rent. Please respond to Richard@LittornoLaw.com.
Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100
Levity Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6931 Retail Dunhaven Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-4663 Senior Services Montecito . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .692-5838
Meals on Wheels Drivers 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@att.net
Services, Other
Help fight Hunger Call Anna Chan at 672-1988.
Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029
Anna’s Attic Volunteers Call 674-9072.
Travel
Hospice of the East Bay Call Volunteer Dept. at (925) 8875678 or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org.
Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840
Clayton Historical Society Museum Call the museum at 672-0240. Clayton Community Library. 673-9777 or email: nielsenjanc@aol.com.
Air Cloud Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 x 2 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447
Courage Do the Right Thing
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
The Marsh Creek Sunshine Fire Station will remain open all year, at least through October 2012, the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District announced last month. During the fire season from May to November, fire protection and emergency services for the area are funded by the state of California (CalFire), which owns and operates the Sunshine Station. When the fire season ends in
Opportunity is Knocking on Your Door! Clayton estate home
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Located 3 doors from Mt. Diablo state park it has awesome views of Mt. Diablo, the surrounding hills and over Clayton to the Sacramento River & Napa hills beyond. A 9-Hole putting green, it’s own regulation horseshoe pit, granite outdoor kitchen with Bar and BBQ, a 9’x12’ inground Spa, a burning pit, Barn, rose garden, room for a pool, and it’s own secluded meadow and trails for your own fully landscaped private park!
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June 24, 2011
RESULTS
November, fire protection becomes the responsibility of East Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ECCFPD), which contracts with CalFire to staff the station. Last year, in an attempt to stanch the flow of red ink, ECCFPD did not renew the contract with CalFire for the off-season, and the station closed in November. This meant the nearest fire engines would come from Brentwood or Clayton, adding as much as 20 minutes to response times. Marsh Creek/Morgan Territory residents were outraged that the district would fail to fund the $366,000 contract but still keep more than $400,000 in tax revenues generated from their area. They organized and formed the East Diablo Fairness Coalition and persuaded the district to draw on reserves and reopen the station until CalFire took over in May of this year. “It’s a temporary fix, at
best,” says coalition leader Cheryl Morgan. ECCFPD is on the fast track to extinction. The $11.1 million operating budget adopted by the district last month will require pulling $2.6 million from savings just to meet operating costs, leaving only $600,000 in reserves. At that rate, the district will run out of money in two years unless they can find a way to raise revenue. A plan to form a benefit assessment district was scrapped in April, when board members determined that the engineer’s reported needed to justify the assessment was incomplete. The board is looking at other options to generate revenue, including a parcel tax that requires a two-thirds majority, but they need to act fast. A parcel tax measure needs to go to the voters no later than May 2012 for the district to see the revenue by
December 2012. The district came under even more pressure last month when the city of Brentwood announced it was considering withdrawing from ECCFPD and forming its own district. Since nearly half of the district’s revenue comes from Brentwood, it is unlikely that the district could survive if they withdraw. Should ECCFPD dissolve, options for the Marsh Creek/Morgan Territory area are limited. Last week, Morgan issued a call to action for coalition members to explore forming their own district. “I think that Brentwood is putting the handwriting on the wall and that we better read it,” says Morgan. The next ECCFPD board meeting is Monday, June 27 at 6:30, Oakley City Hall, 3231 Main Street, Oakley. Agendas, meeting minutes and staff reports are at www.eccfpd.org.
Toll Brothers to go ahead with Seminary Hill development
DRE#00344166
TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
presented by
A Pre-4th of July Celebration
Painting Exhibit Inside and Out Wellness Booth Veteran’s Aid Booth Moving & Storage Booth
Photo /Memory Booth Free Food & Raffle Giveaways Photo with Uncle Sam . . . and much more
Friday July 1 at 4 p.m. Limited Seats. RSVP by June 27
Call (925) 262-4200
(925) 524-5100 6401 Center Street Clayton CA 94517
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A major home developer has purchased the property locally known as Seminary Hill and will go ahead with the 24-home luxury development that was originally approved as Diablo Pointe in 2004. The 24-acre subdivision is above Rialto Drive in Regency Woods and includes 5.5 acres of creekside property along El Portal Drive that will be dedicated open space. The new owners have renamed the project Diablo Estates at Clayton. The original developer, Lemke Construction, put in the streets and other major improvements before the current recession forced the property into foreclosure. Toll Brothers Home Builders bought the property last year and will proceed with the development, which has required extensive corrections to the grading done by Lemke. There are 6 floorplans and the homes will range from 3,500 to 4,900 sq. ft., smaller than the 5,933 sq. ft. homes originally
Grading is nearly completed on Seminary Hill where Toll Brothers Home Builders plans to build 24 luxury homes. This two story is one of six floor plans planned for the development.
proposed. The smaller size is to allow for more usable back yard space, said Rick Nelson, representative from Toll Brothers. The homes will follow classic Spanish and Mediterranean design, with many built around central courtyards. The project will include single-story, twostory and split-level floor plans. The developers are asking the city to modify the setback
requirements to leave room for front porches. Rear yards will include view fencing across the back, and lot lines will be staggered with a low profile as seen from Marsh Creek Road. “The homes are designed to fit into the hillside with minimal visibility from below,” said Nelson. There will be one model home, which should be complete by November.
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June 24, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 7
pecials S er Beach Club VIP m m Su Membership
DVMS honors outstanding students Diablo View Middle School honored its outstanding eighth grade students at the annual Awards Assembly on June 1. More than 130 students were recognized for their achievements with certificates for academic excellence, service, leadership and perfect attendance. Clayton Pioneer student reporter Robbie Parker was singled out for the school’s Community Service Award. Robbie joined the Pioneer as a student reporter three years ago when after he submitted the Kristin Abele Daisy Agers Henah Akbar Tisiola Alatini Samuel Albertsen Paige Alford Holly Allen Paige Anderson Taylor Ashoo Krystal Aven Kyle Bacigalupo Ryan Baldwin Marianne Banducci Devin Banks Ashlyn Bartzi Gregory Biagi Kierra Brown Liam Calkins Queenie Chin Daniel Clough Nathan Coffey Jeremy Connelly Noelle Correa Blake Crahan Blake Daniel Mitchell Daniels Marin Davis
winning essay in the Pioneer’s Fathers Day essay contest. Pioneer publisher, Tamara Steiner was on hand for the presentation. “Robbie has covered school events, written profiles and features and taken on some very difficult subjects in his column. He’s been an ambassador to the community. I don’t think he’s ever said ‘no’ to anything we’ve asked him to do,” Steiner said. I was really surprised and did not expect to receive an award for community service,” said a stunned Robbie…I was
Rachel De Long Dominic Del Monte Kimberly Dennis Alyssa Diquattro Anna Doub Mykelle D’Tiole Bradley Filgas Ilyse Fuller Michael Genrikh Laila Ghannam Morgan Giacobazzi Samuel Givens Lauren Gloekler Matthew Grimshaw Samantha Gripe Diego Guerrero Nicole Haley Megan Haley Emma Hall Gavin Hanratty Miranda Hansen Ricardo Helena Keaton Hill Jordan Howard Kelsey Hultz Thomas Johnson Aurora Johnson-Komins
really shocked when I heard my name called.” “One of the best parts of being a writer at the Pioneer is getting to communicate with the readers about DVMS and what is going on in our community. I am really appreciative of being recognized by you and the school. It made me feel great – like everyone was proud of me. My parents were really proud, for sure. The following students received academic honors and special recognitions from
Tina Karimi Brianna Kearney Emma Keneipp Ryan Kinney Katelyn Kommer Jason Kreske Arianna Laiho Rachel Lanfranchi Taylor Leal Jason Lee Taylor Leong Katherine Lewis Delanie Loague Lauren Ludlow Jacob Lunsford Allison Macaulay Reagan Mackey Kevin Mahlman Shane Mann Katherine Mayhew Kyle Mc Cracken Connor Mc Murdo Kelsie Mc Niff Ashley McNulty Ryan Milligan Tyler Mitchell Deandre Mitchell
4436 Clayton Rd. Suite F, Concord, CA
ROBBIE PARKER
James Siegrist Carter Smith Cathryn Snyder Brandon Sovik Jenelle Stephens Ryan Stickney Samuel Stielow Natalie Straka Nathan Su Jared Suasin Monishaa Suresh Brittany Swystun Michael Theodorakis Kyra Trowbridge Samantha Turpen Jared Vance Delaney Walls Tanner White Kyle Wickware Skylar Wilkinson Sarah Williams Christina Wilson Lorenzo Yacarini The Clayton Pioneer congratulates all the students on their achievment.
It was a typical, serene Friday evening. My family and I watched TV, with the same news items being repeated over and over. As the Channel 2 newscasters spoke the headline “The R Word,” it snared my complete attention. I
CELINE HERRERA DVMS REPORTER didn’t know what “The R Word” was. They only referred to it as “The R Word.” Well, I found out the answer
this at some point in our lives. We all come from unique cultural backgrounds, but we can all agree that all of us deserve a certain amount of respect. I urge you to do choose one of the following three options: First, show respect because it is a positive action. Second, stand up for those who are being bullied. Call out those friends who are using offensive slang towards other people. Finally, let your words come from positive thoughts and motives. Words can’t physically hurt you, but they have the power to destroy your heart.
Burkin Electric Let Us
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SARAH ROSEN TEEN SPEAK Ahh …summer! Twelve weeks of bliss. Hanging out with friends, zero school responsibilities and sleeping in. At nearly 18, I find that 12 weeks fly by so quickly that by mid-August I wonder, “Where did the summer go?” But I’m not too old to remember those summer days that could seem a little long and the thought of sitting around bored for a day spurred a sudden onset of creativity and good old-fashioned goofiness. So for the younger readers and the sanity of their parents/caretakers, I pass on my favorite summer pastimes that require little supervision or money. It seems few people fly kites anymore. Yet they are so much fun, inexpensive and, in our beautiful town, only a short
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Go fly a kite – or try these other silly summer scenarios Saltines without any liquid in 60 seconds. You won’t believe how hard this is. Who doesn’t love Mr. Potato Head? Make your own with toothpicks, felt, carrot slices, olives, red licorice, whatever you can find around the house. If your mom is not the queasy type, watching them “age” in the sun is fun, too. Maybe it’s time to rearrange your bedroom. You may need heavy construction equipment to clear all that junk off the floor, but think about the look of shock on your parents’ faces when they rediscover you actually have carpeting. For a fun Family Improv Night, select five or six unusual items from around the house and have each family member take turns using one in a creative and funny way. Warning: Set guidelines of appropriateness if you are a family with older and younger children. Enough said. Afterward, reward yourself with my personal favorite – a huge ice cream sundae to share with friends. Pile up scoops of ice cream into a pyramid and
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walk is required to find the perfect flying spot. On the crazier side, consider a closet raid. Get a few friends together and raid each other’s closets for the craziest clothing and accessories you can find. Put together your own special “outfit” and head into town as if everything is perfectly normal. Most people will look twice at a 15-year-old in black Converse shoes, orange tights and a fancy dress, complete with a boa and cowboy hat. Clayton can be a bit too normal and as young teens, it’s your job to splash things up a bit. Don’t forget to bring a camera, because you’ll want to remember those crazy times. If you like to cook, get three items from the pantry and see what amazing (and, I hope, edible) creation you can make. At the very least, this always proves a good way of finding out who your friends are. (“No really, Sarah … the gefilte fish with honey and curry powder was really good.”) Or, take the Saltine challenge. See if you can eat five
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Words have power, so use them wisely Celine Herrera is a sixth-grader at DVMS and the latest student reporter to join the Pioneer. She plays the piano and loves to write. Her favorite subject is English. She admires Lady GaGa because “she tells you to constantly express yourself and not to let society put you down.”
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Casey Mitchell Lindsay Mondloch Kaitlyn Montgomery Isabella Montijo Robert Moore Maria Navea Ryan Nebeker Brianne Newell Jack O’Leary Gregory Olson Sarah Owen Robert Parker Breonna Pattison Kartini Pratiwi Sydney Purser Emily Rabbitt Caleb Ricks Haley Rivera Henry Robichaud Haylee Roden Joshua Rosen Joy Ashley Ruiz Lauren Russell Ashley Schaefer Grant Schofield Brigid Shanley Andrew Shuey
to my question: the R word is “retard.” I put my attention to this, because afterwards, they showed a 31-second public service announcement called “Not Acceptable.” The aim of that message was to not use “The RWord” at all towards other people. My idea is to use all words in a positive way. Words are like water – let them flow in a positive way, and you will get positive results. Using words with wrong intentions will have negative effects. Respect is showing deference towards other things, places and people even when nobody is looking. We have all been taught
ULTRA Package, Bed 6 or 12 months Packages (every bed in the salon tanner) starting at plus leg $40/month $17/mo. Add Unlimited Mystic
heap on your favorite toppings. Pass out the spoons and dig into pure summer bliss. Sarah Rosen is a junior at CVHS. You can e-mail her at sarah_rosen@claytonpioneer.com.
Traditional & specialty ravioli Fresh, homemade pasta The best focaccia this side of the Atlantic Homemade Cannoli every Saturday
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Picnic bags for Clayton/Concord Concerts in the Park $9.99 Includes: Choice of Entrée Choice of One Side Dish Focaccia Bread Cookie Utensils & Tablecloth
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Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
For leisure or rental, vacation homes a wise investment Q: Is this a good time to purchase a vacation home for an investment?
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A: I don’t think the time could be better. For a longterm investment, real estate is a good bet. Second home properties have the ability to pay for themselves. Owners often earn a profit in rental income. For people who always wanted a place at the beach or the mountains, this is a big perk. Even if you don’t want to rent it out, this is the best time. Here are some reasons: 1. The silver lining to this slow economy is that most vacation destinations are full of buying opportunities. There have never been so many properties on the market. 2. Vacation home rentals have never been more popular. It is easy to rent your vacation home. More consumers are choosing to stay in cozy cabins and condos rather than
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you wait, the likelier it is that rates will rise. Q: I was quoted my loan agent’s “best rate.” After he ran my credit, the interest rate was higher. Could you give me an example of how rates are affected by the credit score?
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ANSWERS impersonal hotel rooms when they travel. As the demand has surged, many companies have sprung up to help you rent out homes. 3. Prices are probably as good as they get and interest rates are favorable. The longer
A: Buyers are often disappointed that they can’t get the best credit rate. Here is an example from one of the better lenders dealing with a buyer’s loan with 20 percent down. Credit score: 720-740, additional 0.25 points. 700719, additional 0.75 points. 680-699, additional 1.5 points. 660-279, additional 2.5 points.
Q: I keep hearing terms such as “under water” and “upside down” referring to people’s homes. Exactly what do these expressions mean? A: They mean that one owes more money on the property than it is worth. With the housing market declining for as long as it has, these type of terms have become accepted slang. I wonder if they will make their way into the dictionary. Q: A close friend of mine was arrested for drunk driving recently. He asked me if I could use my home as collateral for his bail and he would pay the cash percentage required. I reluc-
tantly agreed. The bail bond agent said they no longer accept homes as collateral because they can’t be sure of the value and potential liens on the property. Though I was relieved, it was a puzzle. I guess this is a sign of our times. A: With so many homes “upside down” in value, I guess it is. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions, contact her at 672-878 7or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
Prepare for disaster with CERT summer classes From recent conversations with local folks, it seems to me that there is a fairly high degree of complacency when it comes to emergency preparedness. Some folks tell me that they will rely on their neighbor for assistance or that they do not have the time to attend the class on emergency preparedness as provided by the Clayton Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). CERT has developed a two hour class to respond to the folks who do not have time in their busy schedules for the 20 hour program. The two hour program will provide our Clayton residents with some of
the basic and essential information in getting prepared. With the two hour class CERT is providing some of the very basic information which we all need in an effort to be prepared when the emergency occurs. Information as to what foods you should have on hand, how much water we should have, emergency contact information; and emergency evacuation plans. CERT has coordinated with the city to offer two classes at our library this summer. They are Wednesday nights, July 20 and August 24. The two hour sessions will begin at 7pm in the Community Room of the
library. You do not have to call to make a reservation, just show up. There is no fee for this class. CERT would like to encourage all family members to attend. School age children in grades 5 and above may benefit from this class and are most welcome. So, for the folks who have told me they do not have the time or if you are one of the complacent ones, a program has been developed for you. Please take advantage of this opportunity. See you on either July 20 or August 24. The goal is to have every family prepared in the event of an emergency.
HERB YONGE
SAFETY ZONE Herb Yonge is a volunteer with the Clayton Police Dept. & a member of the city of Clayton Citizen Corp Council, CERT Team. He can be reached at 673-7355 or by email at hlyonge@att.net.
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SO ANYWAY I think I made a huge mistake. Not long ago, I found myself in a department store shopping for jeans. I usually only have two pairs of wearable jeans at any given time. I wear them for years,
they fall apart, I buy new ones. So anyway, I was on my “once every four years” jeans buying trip and I found my two pairs of normal, boring Levis “relaxed fit” jeans, which is basically a nice way of saying “for guys over 35 whose metabolism isn’t what it used to be.” But that would be difficult to stitch on a pair of jeans, so they went with “relaxed fit.” I’m walking to the dressing room when I pass a display rack of “skinny” jeans. The models in the pictures are all hip and cool, striking defiant poses full of vigorous abandon. “I want a little vigorous abandon in MY life, too!” I thought. So I bring a pair of the skinnies into the dressing room and
10 minutes later I’m walking out of the store with THREE new pairs of jeans. A week later, the wife and I are getting ready to attend a casual soirée: the perfect opportunity to don my new jeans. So anyway, I’m all dressed and we’re getting ready to leave and I make a stop in the boy’s room to say good night or some such sentiment. He sees me in my new duds. “You bought SKINNY jeans?” “Yup.” “God, you look stupid.” “What do you know? You don’t even remember to WEAR pants sometimes. I look good. Dare I say, hip.”
The Trave l to Go fa mily welcomes our newest member -M onica Frag a. She joins our long time staff Sarah Bingenheim er (15 years), Pat Fraga (26 years), Monica F raga, Becky Est enson (17 years), & Vicki Huf ford (18 ye ars). Please stop in to say hello to M onica and reacquaint with our other trave l counselor s.
But the boy was right, though I did not admit it to myself until I had another occasion to put on the pants, this time with my shirt tucked IN. Good Lord, I looked like a halfempty tube of toothpaste. So off they came and went into the bottom of the pants drawer. Just until I get around to flattening my stomach a bit. By that time, baggy parachute pants should be back in style. Clayton resident, Joe Romano, is a family man, a free-lance writer for hire and the Pioneer’s “all around funny guy.” E-mail him at jromano01@yahoo.com
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June 24, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 9
Acacia
Acacia branches out for grieving families PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer
It takes great compassion and the ability to communicate easily to be a funeral director. Client families recognize and appreciate these traits in Rob Strickland. “I enjoy helping people get through difficult situations,” says Strickland, who has more than 20 years of experience in funeral operations and currently owns Acacia Cremation and Burial Society, serving the Bay Area since March 2010. “He was very patient, very caring,” Lisa Bradshaw says. “He went a step beyond” by being willing to meet any time or place to help her family make funeral arrangements for a loved one. Strickland learned by example from his family to help others. He recalls doing chores for his grandmother and painting a great aunt’s
house after she became widowed. He started in the funeral business by answering an ad for an administrative assistant position for a cremation society in 1989. He was born in Walnut Creek and raised in Clayton. He took accounting and business
ROB STRICKLAND
management classes at Diablo Valley College. He traveled from San Diego to San Francisco and Washington. Over the years and miles, his work ranged from the furniture business to real estate and the restoration of cemeteries and chapels. “Along the way, I have always helped people plan funerals,” Strickland says. After returning to Clayton, he established the Acacia Society to offer many ways to help honor each unique life. Like the acacia tree, there are many varieties of people and, Strickland says, “many ways people work through their life.” Strickland’s goal is to help people realize the options they have for funeral services and to make those options affordable so the decision is “more of a choice of what they would like to have” instead of one dictated by price.
The options encompass more than a funeral home. Services can be at a church, home or cemetery. Strickland stays current on trends and can offer special touches like a butterfly release. Acacia also can arrange burial services or direct cremation for people who prefer no ceremony. Strickland contracts out for cremation and services now but plans to one day have a full-service funeral home/chapel and crematory. The hours of the funeral business are long and the nature somber. As a result, Strickland finds himself increasingly aware of his own mortality and values other people more. He spends his free time hiking or catching a comedy movie to stay fresh.
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Is a reverse mortgage a sound option for retirement income? mortgage is considered a loan to the individual—similar to a home equity loan. A reverse mortgage is an option for retirees to tap into the equity they’ve accumulated on their home, particularly if the mortgage is paid off or if the balance on the mortgage is low. But reverse mortgages can take different forms, and it’s important for homeowners to clearly understand the terms of any agreement they consider.
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Letters to the Editor Clayton’s newest fan My name is Scott Rowe. I am 13 years old and the oldest of 7 children. My family and I are from Charleston, South Carolina. We have been living in Clayton for the past 5 weeks.
My dad, Jeff Rowe is a structural engineer with Infrastructure Engineers, Inc. His company won a contract with Caltrans to perform underwater inspections for several bridges in the bay area. The work was going to take 6 weeks to complete, so …
Mayor, from
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up (and who doesn’t want that today?). So send me your emails with your name, address and a line indicating support to shuey@rankinlaw.com. And then go out and recruit your friends and neighbors and make sure they email me also. This is our shot at changing our school for the better so be part of the solution. Many of you have asked me what is next in the process? Well, the charter petition was completed, over 80 percent of the teachers voted for conversion (and a huge standing ovation for an overwhelming number of teachers who went out on a limb and voted to “Do the Right Thing”), and the petition was turned in to the district on June 9. The district now has 30 days to set a public hearing, which we anticipate will be the end of June and the date may have already been set by the time you read this column. However, if not, please check the CVCHS website at https://sites.google.com/site/cl aytonvalleycharterhighschool/ho me or go to Facebook and search Clayton Valley Charter High School (IP address is too long and goofy to print here). Check this regularly as we anticipate we will not get much notice and we will need all of you who can come to attend this meeting and
voice your support. The websites will also give you further information about what you can do to help push this cause, including emailing the school board members. It will not be easy, but we can do this with your help. And finally, a really big shoutout and hearty congratulations to our city maintenance staff upon the completion of the fountain remediation project. We got more than a few emails about the early appearance and a few on how long this project took, but I double dog dare you to send an email saying the finished project isn’t just awesome! Our boys know what they are doing and we have gotten numerous emails saying how much people love the new look. Add the benefit of more drought resistant and lower maintenance landscaping and we hit another home run. Thanks guys! Do you have pet peeves? Do you have them about Claytonians or our city? Well, if you do send them to me so that I can potentially include them in my upcoming pet peeve column! In honor of summer, the great Will Rogers once said, “Never kick a cow chip on a hot day.” Email me at shuey@rankinlaw.com.
we rented a house on Mitchell Canyon Road here in Clayton to live in. My family and I immensely enjoy the town of Clayton. It has almost become home to us. It is situated perfectly, close to San Francisco and other major cities yet also in a rural area. There are plenty of stores and things to do within easy driving distance. Clayton also has some of the best parks, trails and playgrounds in the area. My family also enjoyed the Memorial Day program in downtown. Clayton Valley Church, where we have been attending, the terrific library (my younger brothers and sister adore their book buddy on Wednesdays) and the quaint downtown of Clayton against the backdrop of Mt. Diablo have made this one of our favorite towns. If we come back to the Bay Area, we will at least come and visit Clayton again. – Scott Rowe
Setting the record straight I would like to thank you and your staff for the great job in covering the Memorial Day service honoring our veterans. I was mistakenly identified as a veteran in the picture with Vietnam veteran, Steve Barton. Being from a veterans’ family whose dad was in the navy; two brothers in the Army – one that served in Vietnam, I am honored to stand amidst the great women and men that have given so much. The cap that I wore, with the blue back ground and the gold insignia, represents “The Sons of the American Legion” Post 136 in Stockholm, Maine. As a result of an accident in my early teens, I was not able to enter the armed forces. So I deeply regret that I cannot be called a veteran. I felt it was my duty as an American to set the record straight, and not take that honor from a true veteran. – Lewie Dixon
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
Clayton Sports Mazza brothers prepare for their sports futures JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
The Clayton home of Bob and Sherry Mazza was buzzing June 7 when Chris Mazza was drafted by the Minnesota Twins and later that same day younger brother Nick Mazza graduated from Clayton Valley High School and looked ahead to beginning his collegiate football career at Sacramento State. Bob Mazza understates that it “was a good day in the Mazza house.” The family moved to Clayton in 1990, the year after Chris was born. Oldest brother Anthony is now 28, while Nick is 18. Chris is pitching in North Carolina this summer for the Wilmington Sharks of the Coastal Plains League, the nation’s hottest collegiate summer league featuring wooden bats. He was selected in the 27th round of the Major League Baseball Draft by the Twins, the 838th player taken overall. “On behalf of the entire Sharks organization, I would like to congratulate Chris on his selection in the Major League Baseball Draft,” said Wilmington general manager Andrew Aguilar said. “He has been a great player with us both last season and this season, and we wish him the best in the future.”
Photo by Skip Ely, courtesy Menlo College
June 7 is certainly a day the Mazza family of Clayton will never forget after middle son Chris Mazza (left) was drafted by the Minnesota Twins of Major League Baseball and youngest son Nick (right) graduated later that evening from Clayton Valley High School. He aims to make Sacramento State football team this fall as a walk-in.
According to his parents, Chris will sign a pro contract with the American League franchise within the next
month. Twins scouts will watch him pitching for the Sharks and then negotiations will begin. The rookie league
MDSA Vortex play in five AYSO tournament championship games
Photo courtesy MDSA
MDSA VORTEX ENDED THE AYSO SOCCER TOURNAMENT SEASON with four championships and one second-place finish as the local under 12 girls team won titles at the Comstock Shootout, PHMSA Soccer Fest, Area 2C/2D Select Tournament and Pacifica Fog Classic. The team was runner-up at Concord Cup XVIII. Vortex includes, front row from left, Lauren Schmidt, Brianna Simeone, Sammie Bush, Caitlin O’Leary, Maddie Annison; back row, coach Kim Apana, Judy Audas, Devin Jones, Alina Weigelt, Alli Moody, Jacyln Aragon, Lizzie Annison, Cassie Bizicki and coach Kevin O’Leary.
he would be playing in for the Twins starts this week and continues through September. Chris just completed a fabulous junior season at Menlo College, where he earned NAIA West All-Star kudos while batting .337 as a shortstop, starting all 48 games for the Oaks and also pitching in 19 of the games while earning a school record nine saves. The Twins drafted Chris as a relief pitcher and do not want him playing in the field this summer. Chris was a pitcher in Clayton Valley Little League and Pony League but didn’t pitch at CVHS or during his freshman year at Menlo. He threw just under 30 innings for Menlo this spring. After his freshman year in college, he played in a college summer league and began pitching, which he continued for the past two college and summer seasons at Menlo and Wilmington, respectively. The Twins will be getting a very live arm with Chris, who is 21 and weighs 175 pounds. He has grown four inches to 6-4 since leaving Clayton Valley, where he played for Casey Coakley
y e l l a V n o Clayt wl
his junior and senior seasons as the team reached the North Coast Section playoff semifinals both seasons. More than a dozen former CVHS ball players have been drafted by MLB teams, the most recent being the Gorgen twins, Scott and Matt, who are both sitting out this season after having Tommy John surgery on their pitching arms. Among the other CVHS players drafted in pro baseball are Damon and Justin Mashore, Lance Daniels, Adam Elliott, Zach Wells, Pat Tozier, Ron Olson, Brent Nichols and Brian Beinfest. Clyde Mashore, father of Damon and Justin, signed with Cincinnati right out of CVHS in 1964 before there was an MLB draft. Youngest brother Nick Mazza was accepted as a recruited walk-in for the Sacramento State football team, which plays in NCAA Division 1 Football Championship Subdivision as part of the Big Sky Conference. Because he is not on scholarship, Nick can’t report to football practice until the first day of school on Aug.
29. That’s just days before the team’s opening game Sept. 3 at Oregon State. Most freshmen football players redshirt so the late start may not be too big of a disadvantage for Nick. Eagles football coach Herc Pardi explains that players now need to be invited to even tryout for college football teams. Nick was featured last fall in the Pioneer as a two-way lineman for CVHS in an Athlete Spotlight. His position coach, Paul Reynaud, said of him: “Nick is a fantastic, highenergy guy. His engine has one speed and that is all out, all the time. He is a great leader on and off the field and is always trying to make the guys around him better.” The Mazza name will continue to play a prominent role at Clayton Valley next year as cousin Domenic Mazza will be in his senior year after helping pitch the Eagles baseball team to the NCS baseball championship game as well as making a name for himself internationally by reaching the finals of the World Long Drive Championships last fall.
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June 24, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Sports Shorts
Clayton Sports experimenting with various events that were out of their comfort zone and putting in the time and effort to allow for an opportunity to succeed, it brings that much more joy to the program. The younger grades look up to the 8th grade kids, and they not only led by example, but showed the other grades how to have fun.”
Athlete Spotlight Name: Sarah Enemark Age: 14 Sport: Track Team: St. Bonaventure CYO Track and Field Sarah Enemark will be enrolling at Clayton Valley High School this fall but she’ll have fond memories of her last year on the St. Bonaventure CYO Track and Field team and her final Oakland Diocese meet at James Logan High School in Union City last month.
Sarah capped her St. Bonnie’s career with a busy day at the Diocese meet with a second place in the 200-meter dash, third place in the 200 and fourth as part of the 4x400 relay and sprint medley relay teams. This left the 4x100 relay where Enemark was joined by teammates Maya Ceballos,
Sancianna Silvera and Katie Kern to win the gold medal in the relay with a time of 53.82. St. Bonaventure head coach Darren Newell added about Sarah and other 8th graders on the team, “When you factor in the leadership of the 8th grade kids in showing the younger grades what it is to work hard,
Rocco’s and the Clayton Pioneer congratulate Sarah Enemark and reward her achievement with a $25 gift certificate to Rocco’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Walnut Creek. Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Rocco’s Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
Clayton trio helps De La Salle to NorCal high school golf championship JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Oakhurst County Club and Clayton were well represented when De La Salle High School was crowned champion at the Nor Cal Golf Championships. Junior Brandon Roberts and freshmen Jason Hurtz and Justin Nuval all played roles for the Spartans in this spring’s title run. DLS Coach Leo Lopoz went into the season counting on Roberts as a key component of the team. “It was his third year on varsity and his brother Andrew also had been on our team,” he noted. “Brandon was a fairly experienced, seasoned golfer coming into high school since he’d already played in many tournaments. As a junior, he helped the team with his maturity. He knows what he’s good at and what his limitations are.” Nuval and Hurst started on the junior varsity and that’s where the coach expected they would stay during their first year. “We have a very deep program but Jason and Justin were thrown into the competition,
kept going at it and took advantage of their opportunities to play their way into the lineup. They were each in the right place at the right time,” Lopoz said. The DLS grad is in his seventh year coaching golf and fifth year as athletic director at his alma mater. De La Salle plays in the East Bay Athletic League against a number of schools with top golf programs. During the endof-season tournaments, EBAL foes Foothill, Monte Vista, Amador Valley and San Ramon Valley were neck and neck competing with De La Salle. The Spartans top individual golfer, Jonathan De Los Reyes, was foiled in his bid for a third straight EBAL individual title when he was a shot behind winner Nick Galletti of Foothill, which also took the league meet title by five strokes over DLS. The two teams had tied in the dual meet standings at 12-2. The Spartans won the North Coast Section Division 1 qualifier meet with San Ramon Valley and Amador Valley second and third. Then at the NCS Tournament of Champions,
Foothill captured the title with DLS runner-up, setting up another showdown at NorCals. The NCGA/CIF Northern California Golf Championships were held at Butte Creek Country Club in Chico. The final results couldn’t have been any tighter as De La Salle prevailed by a single stroke over both Foothill and Robert Louis Stevenson of Pebble Beach. The Spartans score of nine over par 369 edged its closest two pursuers at 370. Showing the strength of the EBAL, Monte Vista finished seventh in the elite 13-team field. De Los Reyes and Justin Pagila both shot even par 72s while Roberts, Nuval and Thompson all scored 75 for the champs. Hurtz was the sixth golfer for DLS. Winning NorCal earned De La Salle a place in the CIF State Championships earlier this month at Poppy Hills Golf Course at Pebble Beach. The top three teams each from NorCal and SouCal squared off in the State finals. DLS ended up fourth behind winner Torrey Pines of San Diego and their NorCal rivals host
Page 11
Stevenson and Foothill. Among the two SouCal teams De La Salle finished above was Servite, which lost the State Open Division CIF football championship to the Spartans last December. De Los Reyes was the low scorer for DLS at state with a 74. The two freshmen teammates from Clayton each carded 82. De La Salle won the 2006 state championship and finished third the next year. Roberts was disqualified at the state tournament when he didn’t notice that his playing partner had marked an incorrect score (75 instead of 74) for Roberts on his card. The Clayton golfer went to the tournament officials to advise them of the error and was DQ’d. Coach Lopoz says of Roberts, “We’re lucky to have him these past three years and have one more to come.” This summer, Hurtz and Nuval will be competing for the Oakhurst Bay Cities team run by Bob Ament. Roberts will play in summer and fall tournaments around the country as a member of Oakhurst.
DAMON MASHORE PROMOTED TO MANAGER OF ANGELS FARM TEAM Clayton Valley High grad Damon Mashore was recently named manager of the Inland Empire 66ers. The hitting coach of the Anaheim Angels California League team, Mashore replaced Tom Gamboa who left the team for family reasons early this month. In 2007 Mashore was manager for the Missoula Osprey, Rookie Level Pioneer League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Since then he has been a hitting coach in the Angels system including the last three years with the Halos’ High A 66ers affiliate in the Cal League. Mashore played in the major leagues from 1996-98 with the Oakland A’s and the Angels, tallying eight career home runs, 41 RBI and a .249 lifetime batting average. He was originally a ninth round pick of the A’s out of the University of Arizona in the 1991 draft. Mashore was the 1988 Athlete of the Year at CVHS. His dad Clyde was a major leaguer with Cincinnati and Montreal and his younger brother Damon (CVHS 1991 Athlete of the Year) is currently a coach for the Toronto Blue Jays minor league team in New Hampshire. KARA KOHLER EARNS POST-SEASON HONORS FOR CAL CREW Clayton’s Kara Kohler is one of four California women’s crew members named Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association AllAmericans recently. Mary Jeghers and sophomore Kohler were selected to the first team, while Elise Etem and Kristina Lofman made the second team. All four Golden Bears from the varsity 8+ boat also earned All-Pac-10 recognition. This is the second time that Jeghers and Kohler, a 2009 grad of Clayton Valley High School, have been recognized as All-Americans. Jeghers and Kohler won the gold medal for the United States in the eight at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships in Brest, Belarus, last summer. Kohler also garnered Pac-10 Newcomer of the Year honors in 2010 and was named to the CRCA All-West Region team this season as well. The Bears ended their season with a third-place finish at the NCAA Championships. They had previously won their fourth straight Pac-10 Championship. YOUTH SUMMER REC STARTS THIS MONTH AT CLAYTON GYM The comprehensive Clayton Youth Summer Slam program offered by All Out Sports League at Clayton Community Gym is underway. Reservations are still being accepted 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 through 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. FINAL CLAYTON VALLEY FALCONS CHEER, FOOTBALL SIGNUP DATES
Clayton Valley Falcons cheerleading and football signups are open online at cvaafalcons.com. Football is open for players 7-14 years of age while cheerleading begins for five-year-olds. The final in-person signup session is Thursday, July 7, 6-8 p.m. at Mountain Mike’s Pizza on Clayton Rd. in Concord. Complete information on the Falcons football and cheer programs is available at cvaafalcons.com. LAST CV BASEBALL SUMMER CAMP NEXT WEEK Three-time DVAL champion Clayton Valley High Eagles coaches and players will present their final Summer Baseball Camp starting next Monday, June 27 through June 30 at the Concord school. The program Monday through Thursday is 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 the final summer camp session visit eaglebaseballacademy.com. PRE-SEASON SUMMER CAMP FOR MDSA PLAYERS Boys and girls in Mt. Diablo Soccer are invited to AYSO Pre-Season Camp Aug. 1-4 at Boatwright Fields in Concord. Diablo FC will have an all-star coaching staff including St. Mary’s College head coach Adam Cooper, Cal Berkeley goalkeeper coach Henry Foulk, Brazilian World Cup legend Sissi and 5-time NCS champion coach Brian Voltattorni on hand for the sessions. The camp is open to all AYSO players as they get ready for their 2011 fall league season. Registration and information is available at diablofc.org. FORMER MLS PLAYER TEACHING GOAL SCORING SKILLS THIS SUMMER Former college and professional star Marquis White will be offering a shooting and skills soccer camp this summer in two sessions at Boatwright Fields in Concord. The camp is for all Under 10 through U13 boys and girls interested in improving their attacking skills and becoming a more dynamic player. White played in Major League Soccer for the Colorado Rapids and New England Revolution. He’s now Technical Director of Diablo FC. Sessions will July 11-14 and July 2528. For complete details and to register visit diablofc.org. NEW 10 UNDER BASEBALL TEAM FORMING IN CLAYTON All Out Sports League 10 Under travel baseball team based in Clayton is now taking signups. The team will play in tournaments throughout Northern California and Nevada and practice at Clayton Community Park. Tryouts for the 2012 season will be held Sept. 4 and Oct. 9 from 3–6 p.m. There is no fee to tryout. Players need to be born after April 30, 2001 in order to qualify for the U10 age group. For more information call (925) 203-5626 or visit alloutsportsleagueclayton.com. DIABLO FC U8 SOCCER ACADEMY SESSION BEGINS THIS WEEK A new comprehensive soccer program for girls and boys 6-8 years of age has been introduced with the Diablo FC U8 Academy. The newest session is running on Tuesdays and Thursdays through July 28 (there will be no sessions July 1-11) at Boatwright Sports Complex in Concord. New players are invited to attend a session. 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.
Photo courtesy De La Salle golf team
Oakhurst Country Club and Clayton provided half the golfers for the Northern California high school championship golf team from De La Salle. The Spartan team includes, from left, Justin Nuval, Justin Pagila, Jonathan De Los Reyes, Brandon Roberts, Ryan Thompson, Jason Hurtz and coach Leo Lopoz. Nuval, Roberts and Hurtz all call Oakhurst their home course.
STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR MD SOCCER FALL LEAGUE WAITLIST Mt. Diablo Soccer is still accepting applications for fall league. The local AYSO recreation soccer program, Mt. Diablo Soccer encourages families with children 4 -18 years of age to visit its website at mdsoccer.org and sign up. Children must be at least four-years-old by July 31, 2011 to play this fall season. Some age groups may only be accepting players on wait list. 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.
Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
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Cal baseball was twice doomed to a death sentence during the past year but not only have the Golden Bears rescued the program for years to come but they also did something the school’s team hadn’t done since 1992 by reaching the College World Series in Omaha this week. And two 2009 Clayton Valley High School grads, Darrel Matthews and Vince Bruno, are playing key roles for the Bears. Bruno and Matthews double the number of former Eagles to play in the College World Series. CVHS Hall of Fame inductee Bud Beemer played in the 1965 CWS for Washington State after he began his collegiate career at Cal. More than four decades later, Scott Gorgen pitched for UC Irvine when the Anteaters made their first CWS appearance in 2007. Sophomores Bruno and Matthews have seen lots of playing time this year for Cal and head coach David Esquer. Bruno, who split his time between the outfield, first base and designated hitter, started 43 games prior to the World Series while batting .301. Matthews has played errorless ball in the outfield while hitting .275 in his 40 starts among 47 games played. Cal’s baseball program was one of five sports targeted to be eliminated last fall as the university dealt with a large deficit in its athletic department budget. Early this year, three of the sports were spared the ax but men’s gymnastics and baseball stayed on the chopping block. All of the turmoil and uncertainty unified rather than destroyed the team. In April, it was announced that team boosters and alumni like former National League MVP Jeff Kent helped raise $9 million to save the program. On the field, the Bears got out of the gate fast and were ranked nationally for most of the season. They were unseeded going into the Houston Regionals but won four of five
Photo by Michael Pimentel, Goldbearsports.com
CENTERFIELDER DARREL MATTHEWS (2) has been a key cog for the Cal Bears baseball team as they won the Houston Regional and then the Santa Clara Super Regional to reach the College World Series this week. The former CVHS Eagle got three hits as the Bears eliminated Dallas Baptist in two straight games in the Super Regionals.
games, including an incredible 9-8 victory with a four-run ninth inning rally, to walk off with the Regional title. Then a pair of easier victories over
Dallas Baptist in the Santa Clara Super Regional thrust the Bears back to the series for the fifth time in school history. They lost to top-seeded
Virginia last Sunday in the CWS opening round. Also in their bracket were defending champion South Carolina and Texas A&M. It’s not surprising that A&M would be in the Bears bracket as all but one of their games in the two Regionals was against a Texas school. Cal won the first-ever College World Series in 1947, defeating Yale with an infielder named George H. W. Bush playing for the Bulldogs. The Bears returned in 1957, led by the legendary Jackie Jensen to finish third and then didn’t get back to the series until 1980 and 1992, both seventh-place finishes. Bruno and Matthews were strong members of the 2009 CV North Coast Section title winning team and hope they’ll be adding another title to their resume this weekend. Until ’09, CVHS had never won the NCS baseball title in its 50year history so the Bears baseball championship drought since 1947 won’t faze the local players.
CVHS Girls Soccer teammates among Eagles honored at UMDAF Night
Photo courtesy of Clayton Valley High School
UNITED MT. DIABLO ATHLETIC FOUNDATION SALUTED SENIOR ATHLETES FROM THE SIX HIGH SCHOOLS of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District recently at the Hilton Concord. Clayton Valley High led the way with 20 athletes recognized for planning to play college sports next school year. The Eagles girls soccer team coached by Scott Booth was undefeated during the past two Diablo Valley Athletic League seasons, not even yielding a goal this year. CVHS girls soccer players and their colleges, include from left, Melissa Del Bene (St. Mary’s College), Tori Kobold (San Diego State softball), Breana Partida (Holy Names University), athletic director and former soccer coach Pat Middendorf, Kaila Wakida (Dominican University) and Kelsey Booth (San Diego State). Not pictured is Shayana Gois (Dominican University).
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Financial, from page 9 Although payments are based on the equity in your home (among other factors), there is an obligation to repay the full amount received plus interest either at the death of the homeowner or when the home is sold. However, in many cases, the amount due will not exceed the value of the home when it is sold. Those who receive reverse mortgage payments remain obligated to pay taxes and insurance on the property. This becomes difficult for some – the number of borrowers who default on reverse mortgages has increased in recent years. Many don’t have sufficient assets to make property tax and home insurance payments, or they simply weren’t aware of this requirement. A good solution is to set up an automatic payment program through a bank or cash management account.
The biggest factors that affect the amount one can borrow are current age (older individuals may receive larger reverse mortgage payments), and the amount of equity one has on the house. THREE DIFFERENT OPTIONS There are three different types of reverse mortgages. They include: Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (or HECMs), insured by the Federal Housing Administration
Single Purpose Reverse Mortgages (offered by some state and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations), typically aimed at low and moderate-income homeowners Proprietary Reverse Mortgages – private loans backed by the companies that originate the loan
The vast majority of loans in the market today are government-sponsored HECM’s. Participants can receive payments monthly or even establish a line of credit that can be opened when or if needed. OBLIGATIONS
OF THE BORROWER
In many ways, reverse mortgages are similar to home equity loans in which the value of the home is used to generate cash flow while you continue to own and live in the property. There are costs involved and private loans tend to be more expensive than those offered through government agencies. Unlike a home mortgage, the amount you owe on a reverse mortgage increases over time. Interest is charged on the outstanding balance and added to the amount owed each month. Repayment occurs by selling the home or having heirs take care of repayment after
the death of the homeowner. Therefore, it is important to let heirs know in advance that the reverse mortgage is in place. Most of these loans have a “nonrecourse clause,” protecting heirs from owing more than the value of the home when the loan becomes due and the home is sold. It’s also vital to be cognizant of the interest rate charged on a home equity line. Although some have fixed rates, most utilize a variable rate, so the net value of payments made can decline over time if interest rates rise. Be sure to meet with an advisor for advice on the terms of any reverse mortgage you consider. This meeting is required for all who apply for a federally-backed Home Equity Conversion Mortgage.
Mureleen Benton is a Certified Financial Planner. Call her with questions at 685-4523 Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member NASD and SIPC, part of Ameriprise Financial, Inc.
June 24, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 13
Guard against canine heatstroke As summer finally heats up, the weather is perfect for outings where you can spend quality time with your canine best friend. Rising temperatures can quickly create unsafe conditions for pets, however. Keep your dog happy and healthy by closely monitoring the situation and taking extra steps to secure his comfort. With only small sweat glands on the bottom of their paws, dogs are more prone to heatstroke than people. Incapable of sweating enough
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overwhelmed by rising temperatures and further compromised when the weather is humid. Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers are even more susceptible to overheating. Allow your dog plenty of time to rest in the shade on hot days, and avoid spending too much time on hot concrete or pavement. Always bring extra water and carry a collapsible water dish to help prevent your dog from dehydrating. Being left in the car is the
Tufts and Pickerel are ARF’s Adoption Stars
TUFTS Tufts is a little ballerina who’ll charm her way right into your home. This three-year-old Pomeranian loves to meet people, crawl in your lap, snuggle, and will dance super-cute circles around you. She is dainty, gentle, and sweet. Tufts will need regular grooming to keep her happy and healthy. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60% off one 7-week dog training session.
PICKEREL Pickerel is a darling girl who enjoys pets and being groomed by her people. She has to be the only cat, as she likes to have all of the attention for herself. 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
Vandals, from page 1 Council meeting. Of those, 12 have been to public property. Most recently, vandals sprayed graffiti on the new play structure at Lydia Lane Park and kicked out several of the slats in the gazebo in The Grove. With school out and more kids left with nothing to do, city officials expect the situation to get worse. Security cameras on the Diablo View Middle School campus recently led to the arrest of
three high school students: two from Clayton Valley and one from Bay Point who caused serious damage to school property. During the investigation, one of the suspects also admitted to earlier vandalism of the gazebo. The students were referred to the probation department, says Lawrence, and the school is prosecuting. Encouraged by the success of the DVMS cameras, the
primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process. 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.
most common cause of canine heatstroke. Even on a relatively mild 72-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle can climb to 116 degrees in just one hour. Parking in the shade is useless when the sun shifts overhead, and interior heat can skyrocket even when windows are left cracked. A panting dog left in this enclosed space quickly creates a muggy greenhouse environment which can escalate the chance of heatstroke. If there’s any chance of your dog being left in the car, find a way to reorganize your trip so he can remain comfortable at home. For more information on the dangers of hot cars, please visit Caring for Pets on the Resources & Links page at www.arf.net. Having too much fun can also result in heatstroke. It’s easy to accidentally over-exercise your dog on a sunny day. An enthusiastic fetcher may not slow down to cool off when the ball continues to be thrown. If the ball trumps all, it will be up to you to recognize quitting time. Give your dog frequent water breaks and plenty of downtime in the shade. A great way to stay cool with your dog this summer is to work water into your plans. Set up a wading pool or sprinklers in your yard, or plan day trips to dog-friendly lakes and beaches, such as Point Isabelle in Richmond. Even if your dog isn’t a swimmer, you will both benefit from the cooling effect of walking along the water’s edge. So save the “hot dogs” for the ball field. Here’s wishing you and your four-legged friend a safe and enjoyable summer. Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 256-1ARF (1273)
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council asked Lawrence to further research the cost and to come back at a future meeting with specific recommendations. Vandalism rarely has witnesses, so the city is also considering offering a $1,000 reward to encourage residents to help police. If the vandals are minors, Councilman Joe Medrano wants the parents to reimburse the city the amount of the reward. The city attorney is looking into ways to make parents responsible.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JULY 6 FOR THE JULY 15 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
IN CLAYTON Bring your newborn, toddler, or preschooler to one of our fun-filled classes. Explore musical play, child-friendly instruments, songbooks, and CDs that you use at home. And find out how nurturing our research-based music and movement program can be.
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June 25, July 2, 9 Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown. pcfma.com. July 1 Senior Festival open to the public. Pre-4th of July celebration presented by ADG Referral Services and Diamond Terrace Retirement Community. 4 p.m. at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Free. Space limited. RSVP by June 27. 262-4200. July 2 Diamond Dave Concert “Diamond” Dave Hosley covers classics from Sinatra and Elvis to Justin Timberlake and Flo Rida. 6-8:30 p.m., Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. For concert series list, see Page 3.
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July 4 Clayton Valley Sunrise Rotary Club’s 12th Annual Pancake Breakfast. Pancakes, sausage, juice, coffee. 7 - 10 a.m., Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Donations: $3 children 12 and under; $5 adults. Parade starts at 10 a.m.
ENTERTAINMENT Through June 25 “Blues in the Night” Center Repertory presents the songs of Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Bessie Smith Etc. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $36-$45. 943-SHOW or centerrep.org. Through June 26 “Lady Windermere’s Fan” Butterfield 8 presents Oscar Wilde’s play; set in Victorian London’s high society. Cue Productions Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. $10-$18. (800) 838-3006 or brownpapertickets.com. June 20 through July 17 “King O’ the Moon” The Willows presents this sequel to “Over the Tavern” set in the 1960s as Apollo 11 is about to land on the moon. Willows Theatre Mainstage, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $20-$32. 798-1300 or willowstheatre.org. July 9 through July 17 “La Traviata” Festival Opera opens its 20th anniversary season with one of the most often performed and classic operas – a timeless story of love, deception and loss. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $49-$100. 943-SHOW, lesherartscenter.org. July 22 through July 31 “Fiddler on the Roof” Diablo Theatre Company presents this story of love, family and tradition with a heartwarming score. San Ramon Valley High School Performing Arts Center, 501 Danville Blvd., Danville. $12$15. 324-7359 or diablotheatre.org.
AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. 673-0659 or claytonlibrary.org. Wednesdays. Book Buddies A volunteer will read stories for children of all ages. 1-2 p.m. July 13, 27. Around the World Book Club Discussions of books set in other countries, crafts from that area of the world and other activities built on the theme. For ages 1012. 4 p.m. July 14. Women and Wealth A financial education seminar for women and men. 1 p.m.
CHURCHES & RELIGION July 8 Interaction, fellowship and discussion. Topic: Who is right, science or religion? Speaker Edward Langthorn, lawyer, engineer, teacher. 7:30 p.m. Free. 672-6686 for location information.
FUNDRAISERS Aug. 22 CVHS Athletic Boosters Golf Tournament 20th annual charity tournament. Lunch, putting contest, no host cocktails, dinner buffet, awards and prizes. 21 and over only. Registration 10:30 a.m. at Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. Early bird deadline Aug. 3. Fees vary. cvhsboosters.org.
1st and 3rd Tuesdays. Clayton City Council 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 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. Contact Nancy at 673-3522 or claytonvalleygardenclub.org. Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. second Tuesdays 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. Contact Mike at 639-1987 or uschess.org. Contra Costa Genealogical Society Meets 7 p.m. second Thursday of the month, LDS Church, 1360 Alberta Way, Concord. cccgs.ca@gmail.com. Contra Costa Mineral and Gem Society Meets 7:30 p.m. second Monday of the month, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. 779-0698 or ccmgs.org. Creekside Artists Guild Meets 7-8:30 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Library Story Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. 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. 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 683-9717 or rayce@aol.com. Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. 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. $3. Call Mike at 639-1987 or scrabble-assoc.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 Rd, Concord. Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. $4, $2 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.
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June 24, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Page 15
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for Infants, Children & Teenagers Jason M. Renner, D.D.S. Richard C. Rissel, D.M.D BUTTERFIELD 8 DIRECTOR JOHN BUTTERFIELD (at right in green shirt) rehearses an English country dance with the cast of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” which opens in the intimate Concord theatre on August 4.
career, Butterfield found more work as a dancer than as an actor. He eventually attended LEAP at Saint Mary’s College and used the innovative program to combine the two art forms. A number of directing projects followed, but Butterfield felt a dissatisfaction, a yearning to explore text-driven works from a new perspective. He traveled to Toi Whakaari in New Zealand, where the
Book Review
Are writers’ digs all they’re cracked up to be? “A Skeptic’s Guide to Writers’ Houses” By Anne Trubek This book, a mere 146 pages of text, is jam-packed with wonderfully offbeat information about a variety of American writers and their homes, now designated museums. Trubeck’s purpose in writing the book was to “expose not simply Whitman’s house, but all of the writers’ house museums as the frauds I believed them to be.” What she found as she traveled and visited many sites was a little more complicated. The author points out that visiting the house of a favorite or famous author should not surprise us: “Writers’ house museums have been on the itineraries of the European Grand Tour since the sixteenth century.” The relationship between reader and favorite writer is strong. Visiting the house to see the writer’s chair, quill, pen, typewriter and, soon, PC or laptop, is a kind of posthumous literary voyeurism. Trubeck’s intended exposé entertains, enlightens and enchants. The Alcott house, home to the March family of Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women,” has come to epitomize the America family in ways that would have appalled the strongly feminist Louisa May. And it’s not the only legendary writer’s living quarters whose public image differs from the reality of the writer’s life within its walls. Whose house becomes a museum? Do they generate income? When did all this begin? In the end, Trubek debunks literary myths, but comes to terms with the devotional sojourns of readers for whom reading the book is not enough. “The Skeptic’s Guide” is a natural for any book club in the greater Bay Area. There are numerous authors’ houses for us to visit. Jack London’s Glen Ellen property would make a spectacular day trip for an adven-
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Butterfield 8, an East Bay theater company based in Concord, is shaking loose the cobwebs on the local stages with its progressive approach to classic works. In March, the troupe presented two versions of William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night”: one, an all female cast, and a second, performed by an entirely testosterone-driven male ensemble. “For me, gender is a liquid thing,” says John Butterfield, the company’s artistic director and founder. “As long as it stays true to the text, I think it makes us all look at the text in a completely different way.” Butterfield, who trained with Center Repertory Theater’s Young Rep, followed an admittedly circuitous path to where he is today; directing his own company in a former pool hall at Cue Productions, Butterfield 8’s home theater.
Est.1972
regime of physical, outside-in training refined his ideas and challenged his more traditional background. Butterfield returned to the states with a renewed energy, intent on producing both classic and new works in a voice audiences could understand. It became the company’s core mission to make the work of William Shakespeare, Oscar Wilde and other classic playwrights familiar and ultimately, meaningful, to contemporary theatergoers. “I like works where language is an important part,” Butterfield says. “Where intellectual ideas are all wrapped up in the actual poetry of the language.” For the audiences, this means titles they know, but with what Butterfield calls “a spin” on them. “The more you can make it something they identify with, the more comfortable they are,” he says. “They’re not afraid of it and can just experience it.” ACTORS RESPOND TO INNOVATIVE TOUCH
SUNNY SOLOMON FOR THE BOOKS turous club or a quick trip by BART to Jack London Square in Oakland, where you could peek into one of London’s favorite watering holes. Joaquin Miller‘s bungalow in Joaquin Miller Park in Oakland is also nearby and there is the Steinbeck country of Salinas. How could a club go wrong with a visit to the John Muir home in Martinez? Danville has O’Neill’s Tao House; if poetry is your thing, and you’re headed down to Steinbeck country, go a bit farther and visit Robinson Jeffers’ Tor House in Carmel. Or, check out the Beat poets’ environs of San Francisco. Literary bus tours are available for the mystery loving book clubs and I’m sure a Google search could produce a few others. For those of you who can’t get to Mark Twain’s East Coast home, you can head up to Virginia City and rest your foot on a few bar rails familiar to Twain in his journalism days. At the end of her book, Trubek has included a list of writers’ homes open to the public. As much fun as it might be to visit the digs of your favorite author, it’s even better to read her work. “The Skeptic’s Guide to Writers’ Houses” is a bit of a travel book, museum rants and raves and just generally a lot of fun. Sunny Solomon reviews and blogs on-line at www.bookinwithsunny.com. She continues to lead the Clayton Community Library Book Club. She holds a MA in English/Creative Writing from San Francisco State Univeristy and can be reached at sunny@bookinwithsunny.com.
Actors like Edwin Peabody, who plays Lord Darlington in the current production of “Lady Windermere’s Fan,” are attracted to the task. Peabody likes the classical work and finds that Butterfield’s innovations stretch him as an actor. Although he is open to performing with other theater groups, he calls Butterfield 8 his “home base” and his “creative comfort zone.” Becky Potter has been with the company for four years. She praises the intimate nature of “The Cue” because it includes the audience in the process of storytelling. “I wish I could put the seats on a portable, safe set of risers,” Butterfield admits when asked what he thinks of the venue. “But the challenge has pushed us creatively in a huge way. It’s made us achieve with the tools that we have. Especially with Shakespeare, when you have a
soliloquy, there’s no way for the actors to avoid the connection to the audience. It keeps everybody on their toes.” Butterfield leapt at the opportunity to talk about his actors. “Becky? She’s honest. She pulls you in – and she’s not a wimp. She’s a strong, young woman and portrays that well onstage.” He describes Peabody as “a gift” and loves that the actor brings new ideas to the work. “It’s always complete, from top to bottom,” Butterfield says. Preparation and thoughtful investigation are necessary requirements and common practice for both actors. “The greatest challenge in playing Lady Windermere is navigating her rather melodramatic ambivalence while the rest of the characters are bantering with Wilde’s witty dialogue,” says Potter. Peabody calls his role in the play a challenge and a prize: “The most difficult aspect is that [Lord Darlington’s] a rake and a cad. The most rewarding is working with an accent.” WOULD SHAKESPEARE AGREE? Asked if purists question having the Bard’s words presented with unconventional staging or casting, Butterfield offered an explicit, heart-felt response. “I think Shakespeare would want to be a player for the times we’re in. If you preserve [the work] in wax, if you keep it in a classical vein, you’ve lost your audience. Where’s the way in for a modern audience member? Theater has to be allowed to change and adapt,” he says. The words mesh perfectly with Butterfield’s belief that his company adds a critical component to Bay area theater. “We are important because we do work that other companies don’t do and take risks larger companies can’t,” he says. “We feed the audiences for the larger companies and we fill a
See Butterfield, page 16
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
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The Burning Man festival is like going camping with 48,000 of your coolest friends and the world’s grooviest traveling art exhibit. Each year since 1991, the Burning Man festival has been held over Labor Day weekend in the Black Rock Desert about 125 miles from Reno. The festival attracts artists and free thinkers who join in a gigantic celebration of art, community and mutual support. In its first year at Black Rock, the festival drew 250 people. Last year, there were 43,558 denizens of the desert. This year, Montecito resident Timmy Hogan plans to bring his own music in the form of one – or possibly several – pianos. Most people don’t bring fullsize pianos on vacations, let alone trips that require you to carry your own supply of water and be ready for the occasional sandstorm. But it doesn’t faze Hogan, who plays piano, guitar, upright bass, drums, kalimba (a South African instrument), banjo and mandolin and studied jazz theory at the University of Colorado.
TIMMY HOGAN PLANS TO BRING HIS OWN PIANO - or several pianos -- to the Burning Man Festival in September in hopes of encouraging public support of music education. Approachable and with an easy smile, Hogan is the founder of the Piano Liberation Project.
Through this project, he hopes to provide free pianos to cashstrapped public schools.
“It’s important for children to have music education because it expands their horizons in a unique way,” he explained from his perch on a piano bench. “I feel it is extra, extra important for all children to have the opportunity to work with music in a direct way and not to be intimidated by it or think that it’s not cool.” He hopes bringing pianos to Burning Man will gain him support from the community of artists there to help children in the East Bay discover music. Hogan is raising funds to get himself and the pianos to the festival. If his fundraising goal of $2,000 is met or exceeded by July 6, he’ll bring several pianos and place them in different spots around what is, for all intents and purposes, a “city.” He plans to mount his own piano on a platform to move around the playa. Other pianos may be turned into art displays to further publicize his goals to the others in residence on the former lake bed turned desert. The father of a 4-year old son (who lives out of town with his mom), Hogan has an eye on the future.
See Burning Man, page 17
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Regardless of a person’s fitness level, chances are they suffer tension and stiffness from time to time. Daily activities, whether sedentary or active, can wreak havoc on the body. Hours spent behind the wheel of a car or sitting at a desk eyeballing the computer place the body under strain. Usually people don’t think about their body until they become sick or injured and realize it needs some maintenance. To develop a strong body, people need to focus on body awareness, improving posture, strengthening muscles and increasing the mobility of tendons. The goal is for the body to be fit for life. An ideal fitness program includes core, endurance,
strength and flexibility training. While often the most neglected component of a fitness program, flexibility is one of the most important elements. Flexibility refers to the range of movement across a joint, while stretching is the act of the lengthening muscle and connective tissue. Reluctance to maintain flexibility leads to poor posture, non-specific aches and pains – usually in the lower back, neck and shoulder areas – while inhibiting breathing patterns and dramatically reducing energy levels. Muscles that do not readily stretch can result in injury, even in fit and strong bodies. When daily demands on the body are high and overall flexibility declines with age, inflexibility
can have serious impacts on quality of life. Although some may debate it, the fact is that stretching without a warm-up will not cause injury. Maintain a calm, focused approach to stretching. Pay attention to your breathing and do not force the muscles. Warm muscles stretch more than cold ones, so if you want to increase your stretch, participate in a thorough warm-up. Stretch exercises mobilize the joints and gently lengthen muscles. This should be done over time, rather than trying to radically or quickly changing their length. Be patient and use your breathing to help establish a comfortable but effective rhythm. Relax into a conversation
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gap, in a country where the arts aren’t promoted.” Both Peabody and Potter hold “day jobs” to support themselves. Peabody is the Equipment Specialist at TicketWeb in San Francisco, and Potter is a member of the
faculty at the Oakland School for the Arts. In August, following “Lady Windermere’s Fan,” Butterfield 8 will mount a full production of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” “The seating will be tea
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tables and patrons will be able to enjoy a pot of tea and cookies as they watch the work unfold,” Butterfield says. Peabody is already investigating his character’s superior pride, and Potter, realizing that staying true to the novel will mean there’s “a lot of dialogue and a lot of story to keep in your head at once.” And Butterfield?
He’s already planning ahead, dreaming of a Mary Zimmerman staging of “Metamorphosis” – and cruising the streets, on the lookout for risers. “Lady Windemere’s Fan” plays through June 25 and “Pride and Prejudice” opens August 4 at Cue Productions, 1835 Colfax St. in Concord. For ticket information, go to www.b8company.com.
June 24, 2011
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Burning Man, from page 16
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
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The new sweetener on the shelves these days has been around for hundreds of years. Agave syrup or agave nectar is from Mexico, where it is known as aguamiel (honey water). It was used widely in preColombian ceremonies and believed to promote a long and healthy life. The agave (ah-GAH-veh) plant is known to most of us as the source of tequila. The nectar (mostly from blue agave) is fermented into alcohol and used to create a pitcher-perfect margarita. Used as a sweetener, the nectar can come from any agave plant, which is part of the aloe family. After maturing for 7-10 years, the core of the plant (the pina) is treated to extract the nectar. Agave nectar is fructose which has been shown not to stimulate insulin secretion as much as glucose and other sugars, so it seems to be the darling of diabetics who look happily at its 35 rating on the glycemic index. A word of caution, though. New studies suggest that fructose in general can trigger insulin resistance and increase trigliceride (an undesirable fat) levels in the bloodstream. This data suggests that people at risk should consult a doctor before overindulging in agave. Some articles also are critical of manufacturing techniques
and suggest that the resulting product is more akin to high fructose corn syrup than a healthier alternative. Sweeter than refined sugar by almost half, agave is always in liquid form similar to honey but not quite as dense. It dissolves easily in liquids (so it’s great in tea) and lends moisture to baked goods. Producers generate three versions. The best sugar substitute version is “light” agave. Use about 2/3 to 1/2 as much sugar as is called for in recipes. “Amber” has a deeper, almost maple flavor that is a great substitution for maple syrup, molasses and brown sugar in recipes. “Raw” agave is an allpurpose sweetener. Since it’s filtered and produced at temperatures below 118 degrees, it’s a favorite of raw food aficionados. To keep up with growing demand, agave production is spreading outside of Mexico, with plantations cropping up in fair-flung Indonesia and other warm locales. It is almost always organically grown, often certified kosher and considered allergen-free, gluten-free and vegan. We use agave nectar pretty regularly at Pans on Fire. Often it’s the sweetening agent in salad dressings, like this vinaigrette: HERB VINAIGRETTE 1 clove garlic 1 tsp. Dijon mustard 2 T. red wine vinegar 2 tsp. agave nectar 1/2 tsp. crushed dried oregano (or 1 tsp. minced fresh) 1/4 tsp. dried basil 1/4 c. olive oil or rice bran oil Salt and pepper Mash the garlic in the bottom of a salad bowl with a pinch of salt. Whisk in the mustard, vinegar, agave and herbs.
Fountain, from page 1 “I know that there were some negative comments about the boulders in the Pioneer Letters to the Editor,” says Clayton resident Linda Pinder. “But now that the actual plantings are in I think it
looks terrific. I think this will once again be a lovely setting for prom and wedding photos.” The fountain project is one of seven Landscape Maintenance District projects slated for completion this year.
While continuing to whisk, drizzle in the olive oil to make a fine emulsion. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Always taste your dressings using a piece of the salad greens to get the most accurate flavor.) A smoky-spicy orange sauce over chicken, fish and seafood comes to life with agave nectar: ORANGE-CHIPOTLE SAUCE 1/2 red onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 T. olive oil 2 T. agave nectar 1 c. water Zest and juice of one orange 1/4 c. frozen orange juice concentrate, defrosted 1-2 canned chipotles, minced (to taste) Salt and pepper Saute onion and garlic in olive oil until tender. Stir in water, agave, juices and zest and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until reduced to sauce consistency. Add salt, pepper and chipotle to taste. Agave cousins nectar and tequila are naturally born booze buddies:
“I have concerns about children in many ways. When you become a parent, you become concerned for kids – their safety, their well-being – but also for their development,” he said. “And I just have this kind of heartfelt wish and concern that children are allowed to express and create in ways that will engage them and help them grow. “Everyone has the ability to learn music, young or old. This is to raise awareness about music education, particularly in young children, but also for everyone.” Hogan is hoping that the community of artists and parents will come together to make his dream a reality. He described his work as a form of “radical community reliance.” “To me, (the Piano Liberation Project) would be a way to help the local community here. And that’s a big theme with Burning Man,” he noted. “Burning Man would not be able to happen without its community involvement and relationship with the towns around it. “Bringing the spirit of Burning Man back to what they call the ‘default world’ is extremely important.” And with that, Hogan turned back to his piano and resumed playing songs of hope and joy for anyone who would listen – and join with him in spreading the word of his mission to help communities work together for their better good.
Page 17
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The city has allocated $260,000 for all seven which will include median landscaping and pavers along Clayton Road and Oakhurst Blvd and new trees on Keller Ridge Drive. The city’s gateway, known as Daffodil Hill, is a project of the CBCA which is currently in the design and bidding process.
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Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 24, 2011
Sculptures add new dimension to Bancroft Garden Gardens are understood to be collections of plants that reflect the personality of the gardener. Shrubs, perennials, succulents, flowering trees and ornamental grasses are organized together to create an environment that comforts the owner. Some gardeners take the idea a step further and incorporate non-living elements such as fountains and sculpture. Art in the garden is as individual as each gardener. It is all about expression. Ruth Bancroft Garden in Walnut Creek is holding its 17th annual Sculpture in the Garden tour through July 16. This is an excellent time to wander and experience artwork by more than 30 Bay Area artists placed among the flowering succulents, near trees and bordering walkways.
BLUE CHOKER, by Philip Dow.
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL A preview for the tour was my first visit to the garden. Holding the event in June and July is perfectly planned to when many of the plants there are in bloom. SOMETHING’S FISHY HERE The selections of echeveria were vast. They created groundcovers and small shrubs, depending on the variety. The pinkish blooms that were curling out from the fleshy leaves were a temptation to the hummingbirds that swooped past tour-goers to feast on the plant’s nectar. Pieces of art were placed within these mounds. Sculptures of dimensional fish stretched through a bed, while aluminum colored metal flowers bloomed on medium-sized stakes. As we followed the crushed stone walkways toward the blooming yucca, tall metal sculptures towered over us. To my right was a sculpture made of glass. The sun was beginning to fall to the west and shone brightly through the glass. Exotic flowers, houses for birds and hanging fruit also displayed brilliantly during this time of the evening.
A STUDY IN CONTRAST The pathways that led to the cactus portions of the garden held more industrial pieces. Rust-colored metal seemed at home in this masculine part of the garden. The art placed here is very complimentary. It’s always amazed me that while cactus is a harsh-looking plant, it has the most delicate looking flower – seeming to contrast itself. Self-contained fountains line the entry to the garden. These large pieces of carved stone are inviting, with just a touch of noise. Near the pond, pristine white marble carvings are placed: two boys whispering, a daisy and a lovely, smooth bench. Acrylic sculptures also look nice by the water. Visiting during the Sculpture in the Garden event is outstanding. Not only will tour-goers be enticed by the blooming plant material, but they will find the art enlightening. Children under 12 are free to tour with a paid adult, mak-
ing this an excellent destination for a summer adventure.
Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Admission is $10, or $7 seniors and students. Children under 12 free. For more information, visit ruthbancroftgarden.org.
The Ruth Bancroft Garden is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily at 1552
gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
SILVER CIRCLE, A GARDEN SCULPTURE BY CHAD GLASHOFF, is being displayed at the Ruth Bancroft Garden’s during the Sculpture in the Garden Event.
Budget, from page 1 El Molino Drive that has reached capacity, and improvements to the bridge and creek at the foot of School Hill on Oak Street. The city will also need to replace much of the antiquated computer and communications equipment at city hall, including the phone system and internet access lines.
Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at
Prop. 22 by eliminating the agencies all together. If this happens, the city will be left with a general fund shortfall of $425,000 for staff and administration costs that will no longer be covered by Redevelopment Agency funds. These are costs that won’t disappear with the agency, says Napper. The city will then be faced with some tough choices: use general fund reserves to make up the difference or start cut-
The city is operating within its means for now, but the state budget is a wild card, Napper notes. Last year, voters passed Proposition 22, which called a halt to the state grab of local Redevelopment Agency money. But as it struggles to close a $9 billion budget gap, the state is attempting an end-run around
ting services. The state COPS grant that funds one police officer is also in jeopardy. Loss of that grant will mean cutting that position. “I’m running out of rabbits to pull out of the hat,” says a frustrated Napper. “We’re in balance right now, but a strong wind from Sacramento blows it all over.” The complete budget is at ci.clayton.ca.us.
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