2011_Clayton_Pioneer_1223

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

December 23, 2011

925.672.0500

Clayton Post Office hopes to weather impending program cuts Postmaster says closure of the town’s one office is unlikely.

HOWARD GELLER

MAYOR’S CORNER

New year, new mayor but same great town

PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer

When I bought my first home in Dana Ridge in 1975 and moved to Clayton, never in my wildest dreams did I ever think that I would become mayor of our city. Fate has a strange way of directing you and I am a strong believer that the karma you create will guide your destiny.

Being appointed mayor by your peer council is an honor that I will take seriously. I want to thank Dave Shuey, our outgoing

See Mayor, page 4

DVMS teacher arrested on sex charges DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

In a scene from any parent’s worst nightmare, Diablo View Middle School teacher Andrew Cottrell was arrested on Dec. 8

by Clayton and Walnut Creek police on charges related to sex with a former student.

The 19 felony and one misdemeanor charges include unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor under 16, and lewd acts with a victim who is 14 or 15 years old.

“We have corroborating evidence as to the allegations in this case,” said Chad Mahalich,

See Arrest, page 6

Ray Casso’s killer declared legally insane

POSTAL WORKERS IN THE CLAYTON PO are working the hours necessary to deliver holiday packages as well regular mail to local residents. “They’ll deliver in a timely manner, right down to the last truck on Dec. 24,” Johnnie Johnson, postmaster, says.

Johnson (kneeling, third from left) celebrated 32 years with the Postal Service in November and is just days away from retirement. Dec. 30 is his last day working with fellow employees, most of whom are pictured here.

County Board to rule on charter in January DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

The movement to make Clayton Valley High School a charter school moved into a new arena earlier this month when the Contra Costa Board of Education held the first of two scheduled meetings on the appeal of the charter, which was denied by Mt. Diablo Unified School District trustees in November.

More than 100 people

crowded into the Pleasant Hill Elementary School multi-use room for the meeting, with charter proponents in their trademark bright blue t-shirts squeezed in alongside students from other district schools bearing signs against the petition.

Meanwhile, a sole, understandably nervous Pleasant Hill police officer kept watch from the back of the room for signs of trouble.

With the exception of a brief shouting match that erupted

TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Nearly three years ago, on the morning of March 7, 2009, Ray Casso, 73, stopped at the Clayton Post Office to pick up his mail.

He never left.

Shannon Bradley Moore, now 39, also stopped at the post office that day. He wanted to change some postage stamps for cash. But, it was against regulations and he was turned away.

See Casso, page 6

Mike Dunn

CHARTER SCHOOL ORGANIZERS APPEALED to the County Board of Education last week after MDUSD denied the application to convert Clayton Valley High. More than 100 people packed the hearing. The County has 60 days to rule.

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Community Calendar . . . . . .14 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . .8

between audience members when Pat Middendorf questioned the district’s willingness to take marching band instruments and uniforms from the school should the appeal be granted, however, both sides remained civil.

The charter steering committee filed its appeal with the Contra Costa County Board of Education on November 15, a week after MDUSD denied the petition.

According to State law, the County Board has 60 days from the date of filing to approve or deny the appeal.

Despite seemingly critical questioning of both sides by County Board members at the meeting, representatives of both the charter and MDUSD felt they were getting a fair hearing.

“I got that the County Board actually had a dialogue with the people that are trying to get the charter school put together,” said Clayton Mayor Howard Geller.

“I think they’re listening to us,” said Gary Eberhart, President of the MDUSD Board of Education, who voted against approving the petition. “At the

See Charter, page 4 Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . .18 Financial Sense . . . . . . . . . .13 Fit with Levity . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

“Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night, stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds,” reads the unofficial saying inscribed at a post office in New York.

But perhaps not on Saturday in another two years.

That is the threat facing post offices from Manhattan to Clayton, if Congress ultimately approves the U.S. Postal Service’s Five-Day Delivery Plan to offset a projected $238 billion shortfall by 2020.

Although Congress delayed chopping Saturday delivery for at least the next two years, the Postal Service will continue to request the Five-Day Delivery Plan, said Augustine Ruiz, Jr.,

See Post Office page 17

Molly’s blood drive starts the new year right

Molly Avilez (left) continues to “Pay It Forward” with her third annual blood drive on Jan. 5. The Clayton teen was critically injured as a baby and credits donated blood for saving her life. She is pictured with her mother Monica Fraga.

PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer

Just one blood donation can save up to three lives. Clayton residents can continue the gift of giving beyond this holiday season at a blood drive on Jan. 5 at Diablo Valley Middle School – and maybe gain bragging rights throughout the Bay Area.

Clayton will need to collect more than 172 units of blood, the unofficial “record” held by

Holiday Guide . . . . . . . . . .16 Letter to the Editor . . . . . . . . .4 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Pioneer Photo Album . . . . . . .7 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Livermore.

Cheering the community along is a very vibrant 15-yearold named Molly Avilez, the honoree of the drive known for three years now as “Molly’s ‘Pay It Forward’” blood drive.

Molly initiated the first drive as part of a leadership program at DVMS. She continues her mission to lead Clayton in filling blood banks with donations.

See Molly, page 14

Safety Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sports Shorts . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 23, 2011

Around Town Holiday parties Stephanie Lopez and Leigh Klock of the Dynamic Realtor Group hosted a festive holiday celebration on Dec. 15 at the new model home in Diablo Estates.

Friends and clients enjoyed appetizers, decorations and gift baskets all provided

by Clayton businesses and the developer. Guests toured through spacious rooms with high ceilings, crown molding, built-in wall units and luxury features at every turn, even braving the crisp December air to take in the spectacular skyline views of Mt. Diablo and From top: Steve Sanforth and Victoria Kimble from Toll Brothers Developers; the valley.

Stephanie Lopez, Leigh Klock and Laurie McCann from the Dynamic Realtor Group.

Sarah and Bob Rodenburg hosted a holiday party at their home on Marsh Creek Road on Dec. 11. The guest list included Cindy and Keith Haydon and Judy Suddereth.

Kids take tea and cookies with Mrs. Claus and Santa

THE PARKER BOYS, Wyatt, Kai and JT insist they have all been good this year.

More than 500 Clayton kids turned out for the annual CBCA Dessert on Dec. 10 at Endeavor Hall where they shared their Christmas wishes with both Mrs. Claus and Santa.

Tables creaked with the weight of cookies, brownies, donuts and fresh fruit.

Animals were at the top of Christmas lists this year, reported Santa and included not only the expected puppies and kittens, but a few unexpected requests as well. One little girl wanted a crocodile, another asked for a zebra to ride. But Santa was most surprised when one tyke said he wanted a penguin.

“Oh my,” replied Santa.

“Penguins like it very cold— much colder than Clayton.”

But the boy was ready.

“I’m going to keep my backyard at five below zero.”

Joining Santa and Mrs.

JODY SPARKS kept the desserts coming at the CBCA sponsored Dessert with Mrs. Claus.

Claus for the fun were firefighters from Station 11.

Santa’s sleigh wasn’t available for tours, but most thought the fire engine was a lot more fun anyway.

The annual event is sponsored by the Clayton Business and Community Association under the direction of Mike Fossan and Sydney Alcock.

CLAYTON CLOSED SALES 2011 Address

Sold for

Sq.ft.

356 Blue Oak Lane . . . . . . .$641,000 204 Mountaire Cir . . . . . . . .$505,000 223 Mountaire Pkwy . . . . . .$559,000 4102 Coyote Cir . . . . . . . . .$335,000 815 Savignon Ct . . . . . . . . .$500,000 12103 Marsh Creek Rd . . . .$705,000 709 Acorn Drive . . . . . . . . .$795,000 1100 Easley Drive . . . . . . . .$575,000 1388 Shell Ln . . . . . . . . . . .$399,000 5225 Keller Ridge Dr . . . . .$850,000 216 Condor Way . . . . . . . . .$533,000 1163 Moccasin Court . . . . .$443,699 237 El Pueblo Pl . . . . . . . . .$675,000 5614 Ohman Pl . . . . . . . . . .$558,000 140 Mount Whitney Way . .$530,000 62 Antelope Ct . . . . . . . . . .$710,000 154 Mount Vernon Dr . . . . .$500,000 41 Fleming Ct . . . . . . . . . . .$550,000 605 Condor Place . . . . . . . .$295,000 51 Tule Court . . . . . . . . . . .$430,000 3307 Coyote Cir . . . . . . . . .$370,000 1015 Feather Cir . . . . . . . . .$450,000 230 Mountaire Circle . . . . .$645,700 53 El Portal Drive . . . . . . . .$608,150 3030 Windmill Canyon Dr .$605,000 5210 Keller Ridge Drive . . .$680,000 379 Mount Sequoia Place .$670,000 8028 Kelok Way . . . . . . . . .$630,000 5222 Keller Ridge Dr . . . . .$689,900 1550 Haviland Pl . . . . . . . . .$400,000 367 Mt Washington Wy . . .$789,000 5920 Herriman Dr . . . . . . . .$615,000 5850 Pine Hollow Rd . . . . .$445,000 473 Obsidian Way . . . . . . .$655,000 8013 Kelok Way . . . . . . . . .$640,000 908 Arrowhead Terrace . . .$359,900 716 Anizumne Court . . . . .$472,500 177 Brandywine Place . . . .$790,000 46 Long Creek Cir . . . . . . .$275,000 267 Mountaire Parkway . . .$648,000 134 Regency Dr . . . . . . . . .$569,000 1713 Indian Wells Way . . . .$384,000 1786 Indian Wells Way . . . .$430,000 1755 Indian Wells Way . . . .$329,000 1123 Whispering Pines Rd $770,000 1889 Eagle Peak Ave . . . . .$515,000 3703 Coyote Cir . . . . . . . . .$303,000 1481 Lydia Ln . . . . . . . . . . .$519,000 1052 Pebble Beach Dr . . . .$757,500 890 Coachman Pl . . . . . . . .$780,000 121 Forest Hill Drive . . . . .$719,000 582 Mount Dell Dr . . . . . . . .$340,000 1150 Peacock Creek Dr . . .$782,500 8020 Kelok Way . . . . . . . . .$525,000 15 Clark Creek Cir . . . . . . .$290,000 1207 Bridlewood Ct . . . . . .$715,000 11 Alef Ct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$558,000 251 Jeffry Ranch Pl . . . . . .$465,000 21 London Court . . . . . . . .$469,000 1462 Indianhead Cir . . . . . .$360,000 156 Mount Etna Dr . . . . . . .$307,000 226 Condor Way . . . . . . . . .$439,000 5130 Morgan Territory Rd .$560,000 5739 Verna Way . . . . . . . . .$330,000 160 Mount Etna Dr . . . . . . .$250,000 1216 Buckeye Ter . . . . . . . .$430,000 17 Long Creek Cir . . . . . . .$194,000

. . .3146 . . .2619 . . .2960 . . .1554 . . .1836 . . .3329 . .2543 . .2298 . .1709 . .2894 . .1710 . .1639 . .2643 . .2398 . .1796 . .2448 . . .1811 . .2324 . .1252 . .1749 . .1595 . .1638 . .2141 . .2857 . .2313 . .3079 . .3216 . .2237 . .2894 . .1549 . .4318 . .3614 . .1494 . .2455 . .2542 . .1235 . .1991 . .3308 . .1378 . .2694 . .1895 . .1939 . .1749 . .1235 . .2617 . .1910 . .1026 . .1690 . .3599 . .2486 . .2748 . .1423 . .3820 . .2542 . .1457 . .2659 . .2370 . .1691 . .1895 . .1709 . .1442 . .1343 . .1709 . . .1100 . .1442 . .1710 . . .966

Address

Sold for

Sq.ft.

408 Wawona Ln . . . . . . . . .$720,000 928 Kenston Dr . . . . . . . . . .$460,000 902 Arrowhead Ter . . . . . . .$343,000 1048 Feather Circle . . . . . .$415,000 7002 Molluk Way . . . . . . . .$569,000 1871 Eagle Peak Ave . . . . .$500,000 5 Kenston Ct . . . . . . . . . . . .$480,000 226 Bigelow St . . . . . . . . . .$539,900 415 Leon Court . . . . . . . . . .$883,000 26 Mirango Ct . . . . . . . . . . .$360,000 3165 Bragdon Way . . . . . . .$785,000 602 Julpun Loop . . . . . . . .$370,000 7004 Molluk Way . . . . . . . .$490,000 1296 Easley Dr . . . . . . . . . .$597,500 10 Mount Lee Pl . . . . . . . . .$464,950 1409 Indianhead Way . . . . .$325,000 997 Kenston Dr . . . . . . . . . .$445,000 1130 Peacock Creek Dr . . .$738,000 276 Mountaire Cir . . . . . . . .$480,000 208 Mountaire Pkwy . . . . . .$418,905 160 Mount Etna Dr . . . . . . .$322,000 770 Bloching Circle . . . . . .$539,000 34 Long Creek Cir . . . . . . .$190,000 3014 Windmill Canyon . . . .$432,500 1142 Peacock Creek Dr . . .$743,000 7 Long Creek Cir . . . . . . . .$230,000 5856 Herriman Dr . . . . . . . .$449,000 1719 Indian Wells Way . . . .$379,000 3045 Windmill Canyon Dr .$495,000 30 Mount Olympus Pl . . . .$523,000 410 Wawona Ln . . . . . . . . .$665,000 1884 Ohlone Hts . . . . . . . . .$410,000 17 Clark Creek Cir . . . . . . .$210,000 19 Mount Wilson Way . . . .$245,000 1412 Greystone Ln . . . . . . .$348,500 5201 Keller Ridge Dr . . . . .$632,000 447 Grenache Circle . . . . .$639,888 1042 Panadero Ct . . . . . . . .$815,000 5711 Verna Way . . . . . . . . .$340,000 44 Rialto Dr . . . . . . . . . . . . .$449,000 903 Deer Pl . . . . . . . . . . . . .$657,750 521 Hamburg Circle . . . . . .$575,000 907 Arrowhead Ter . . . . . . .$399,000 102 Forest Hill Dr . . . . . . . .$640,000 212 Mountaire Parkway . . .$600,000 926 Arrowhead Terrace . . .$349,950 510 Mount Dell Drive . . . . .$530,000 4255 Morgan Territory Rd .$790,000 5555 Southbrook Dr . . . . . .$442,500 5832 Verna Way E . . . . . . .$425,000 33 Mountaire Court . . . . . .$615,000 1069 Feather Circle . . . . . .$445,000 232 Jeffry Ranch Pl . . . . . .$466,000 70 El Molino Drive . . . . . . .$520,000 101 Mount Whitney Way . .$440,000 3149 Morgan Territory Rd .$791,360 243 Mountaire Pkwy . . . . . .$580,000 10 Mount Wilson Way . . . .$190,000 1554 Ohara Court . . . . . . . .$333,000 5471 Tara Dr . . . . . . . . . . . .$291,300 404 Hummingbird Pl . . . . .$375,000 1357 Shell Ln . . . . . . . . . . .$320,000 7007 Molluk Way . . . . . . . .$569,000 5472 Tara Dr . . . . . . . . . . . .$374,000 52 La Honda Court . . . . . . .$595,000 436 Mount Sequoia Ct . . . .$645,000 20 Fleming . . . . . . . . . . . . .$374,500

. .2944 . .2852 . .1749 . .1338 . .2556 . .2467 . .1806 . .2325 . .4600 . .1648 . .4319 . .1939 . .1835 . . .2116 . .1924 . .1355 . .1990 . .3185 . .2448 . .2325 . .1442 . .2032 . . .966 . .1877 . .4076 . .1075 . .1623 . .1749 . .2053 . .1732 . .2966 . .1493 . .1050 . .1378 . .1474 . .2542 . .2391 . .4716 . .1338 . .2324 . .2542 . .2081 . .1904 . .3820 . .2960 . .1749 . .2619 . .2261 . .1540 . .1753 . .2152 . .1703 . .2005 . .2309 . .2177 . .2932 . .2325 . . .966 . .1256 . .1436 . .1493 . .1709 . .2680 . .1739 . .2390 . .2691 . .2141

Address

Sold for

Sq.ft.

301 Saclan Terrace . . . . . . .$360,000 . .1749 1282 Shell Circle . . . . . . . .$317,000 . .1367 20 Mount Wilson Way . . . .$225,000 . .1378 470 Obsidian Way . . . . . . .$630,000 . .2455 1539 Ohara Ct . . . . . . . . . . .$307,500 . .1436 1415 Greystone Ln . . . . . . .$335,000 . .1891 4903 Keller Ridge Dr . . . . .$243,350 . .1252 972 Kenston Dr . . . . . . . . . .$439,000 . .1510 3066 Windmill Canyon Dr .$500,000 . .2315 917 Kenston Drive . . . . . . .$425,000 . .1507 56 Barcelona Way . . . . . . .$580,000 . .2032 1764 Indian Wells Way . . . .$372,000 . .1749 953 Oak Street . . . . . . . . . .$995,000 . .2716 2 Mount Wilson Way . . . . .$260,000 . .1378 3067 Windmill Canyon Dr .$515,000 . .2315 1179 Shell Ln . . . . . . . . . . .$302,000 . .1355 174 Brandywine Place . . . .$719,000 . .3030 1272 Shell Cir . . . . . . . . . . .$335,000 . .1355 115 Jeffry Ranch Ct . . . . . .$400,000 . .2003 1547 Ohara Ct . . . . . . . . . . .$374,400 . .1739 1418 Yosemite Cir . . . . . . .$414,000 . .1346 921 Sylvaner Court . . . . . .$652,000 . .2919 27 Mount Wilson Way . . . .$198,000 . . .966 328 Mt. Washington Way . .$515,450 . .2010 128 Widmar Pl . . . . . . . . . .$429,000 . .2122 6013 Golden Eagle Way . . .$430,000 . .1816 26 Widmar Ct . . . . . . . . . . .$585,000 . .1974 383 Mt. Sequoia . . . . . . . . .$482,00 . . . .2077 1343 Shell La . . . . . . . . . . .$300,000 . . .1145 6026 Golden Eagle Wy . . . .$445,000 . . .1816 1433 El Camino Dr . . . . . . .$330,000 . . .1352 1456 Yosemite Cir . . . . . . .$506,600 . . .2218 1240 Buckeye Terr . . . . . . .$478,500 . . .1639 39 Westbrook Ct . . . . . . . . .$434,000 . . .2132 16000 Marsh Creek Rd . . . .$577,000 . . .1716 60 Mt. Mckinley Ct . . . . . . .$680,000 . . .2722 144 El Portal Pl . . . . . . . . . .$523,000 . . .2400 327 Semillon Circle . . . . . .$525,000 . . .2032 3249 Aspara Dr . . . . . . . . . .$395,000 . . .2444 380 Blue Oak Ln . . . . . . . . .$699,900 . . .3008 1261 Shell Cir . . . . . . . . . . .$280,000 . . .1355 20 Mt. Olympus Pl . . . . . . .$505,000 . . .2135 7 Donner Creek Ct . . . . . . .$198,000 . . .1113 3109 Windmill Canyon Dr .$520,000 . . .2481 975 Kenston Dr . . . . . . . . . .$300,000 . . .1725 641 Mt. Duncan Dr . . . . . . .$605,000 . . .2481 3102 Coyote Cir . . . . . . . . .$305,000 . . .1554 3046 Miwok . . . . . . . . . . . . .$690,000 . . .3250 973 Oak Street . . . . . . . . . .$400,000 . . .2175 211 Clifford Ct . . . . . . . . . . .$525,000 . . .2325 1735 Indian Wells Wy . . . . .$327,000 . . .1749 1 Rhine Ct . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$465,000 . . .1854 590 Mt. Olivet Pl . . . . . . . . .$529,000 . . .2691 4104 Coyote Cir . . . . . . . . .$205,000 . . .1026 1036 Pebble Beach Dr . . . .$690,000 . . .3307 479 Obsidian Wy . . . . . . . .$610,000 . . .2981 1749 Indian Wells Wy . . . . .$359,000 . . .1904 65 Antelope Ct . . . . . . . . . .$720,000 . . .3008 5604 Bettencourt Dr . . . . . .$415,000 . . .1780 1827 Yolanda Cir . . . . . . . .$453,200 . . .2398 2905 Coyote Cir . . . . . . . . .$283,000 . . .1252 3085 Windmill Canyon Dr .$650,000 . . .2854 220 Condor Wy . . . . . . . . . .$415,000 . . .1710 11 Mt. Lee Pl . . . . . . . . . . . .$429,000 . . .2256 303 Saclan Ter . . . . . . . . . .$365,000 . . .1939 1025 Mitchell Canyon Rd . .$460,000 . . .3155 507 Caulfield Ct . . . . . . . . .$551,000 . . .2166

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December 23, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Around Town Tillery-Roulette engagement announced

Neighborhood Watch gains momentum

PEACOCK CREEK NEIGHBORS TAKE TEA. (Back row) Eileen Weiler, Sherrie Byerly, Betty Strong, Allison Penn, Lynne Ellyn, Margalit Ir, Barb Wall, Terri Swanson, Sarah Odeyemi, Toni Hegemier, Terry Putz, Judy Roberts, Joan Jones, Debra Pearson; (Front row) Theresa Jordon, Monnie Eichten, Susan Kennedy, Amal Shihabi.

Pioneer takes to the Roman Road with Olene Carroll

The ladies of Peacock Creek took tea together at the home of Allison Penn on Pebble Beach Drive last month.

Over a year ago, several neighbors frustrated with escalating vandalism in their neighborhood gathered in Khani and Dane Horton’s Peacock Creek garage to hear the Clayton PD talk about forming a Neighborhood Watch program.

Last month, many of these same neighbors gathered at the Horton home again to plan neighborhood activities. From that, came the tea.

“We have been trying to help our Neighborhood Watch participants evolve into the kind of neighborhood where people will feel a sense of connection and support,” says Khani Horton.

“On my personal ‘bucket list’ is a hope that I will one day live in the friendliest neighborhood in Clayton.”

Alyce Tillery will marry Matthew Roulette on July 21 at the Hanna Nicole Vineyard in Brentwood.

The couple announced their engagement at a family gathering in July in Huntington Beach where Matt “got down on one knee and popped the question.”

Alyce is a catering sales manager at the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego. She graduated from CVHS in 2002 and from San Diego State University in 2006. She is the daughter of Bob and Delrae Tillery of Clayton.

Matthew is from Huntington Beach, Calif. where his parents John and Mary Roulette still live.

He is an account manager with Pacific Wine and Spirits.

Alyce and Matthew live in San Diego.

Send your news and photos of your births, engagements, weddings, special recognitions, etc. to info@claytonpioneer.com.

In October, we stood with Olene Carroll on ancient paving stones in Phillipi, Greece, that were part of a Roman Road (200 BC) called Via Egnatia, which might be the ancient origin of the Spanish “Ygnacio.” It stretched from Byzantium to the Adriatic.

Olene and her partner lead tours 2 or 3 times a year to Greece, Turkey or Israel and Jordan. They follow in the footsteps of such biblical characters as Moses, Jesus and Paul.

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Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 23, 2011

Resolve to reach meaningful goals in 2012 DORY WILLER Special to the Pioneer

It’s almost New Year’s, and one of the main things I hear this time of year is “I resolve to keep my New Year’s resolutions.”

The trick to New Year’s reso-

lutions is to approach them in a way that has real meaning in your one-of-a-kind life. This year try something different. Rather than drafting a wish list of generic changes you know are “good for you,” like lose weight, get to bed earlier, cut back on sugar, or exercise more, focus your atten-

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mayor, for the stellar job he did.

He allowed me to gain on-thejob experience when he could not attend to his mayoral duties due to his commitment to family and the challenges of the charter school issues at hand. I also want to congratulate our new vice mayor, Joe Medrano, on his appointment.

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see what kinds of options appear on the canvas of your imagined ideal.

2. When you feel you have a list of ideas to base a fresh life change upon, go through the list, paying attention to the ideas that make your heart leap with an inner “hell, yes!” These are the changes that have the most juice and inside-out momentum for you.

3. Pick the one that has the most positive energy and excitement. Don’t let a gremlin on your shoulder talk you out of it (e.g., you can’t, no way, not you, etc).

4. Contemplate about some first actions to bring this change into your daily life in little steps, planning one do-able step a day.

5. Commit your plan to writing (write it down, make it

Mayor, from page 1

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LEIGH KLOCK

tion on one specific change that will impact the quality of your daily life – a big breakthrough that will greatly enhance your level of joy, inner peace and sense of accomplishment.

To get to the heart of your true desires use this tactic I use with my clients: 1. Close your eyes and ponder this question: what is one thing I can do to add more joy to my daily life? Imagine you are opening a door to a landscape that will show you some possibilities. When you open the door, step into this imagined world with your heart and mind wide open. What is the first thing you notice? Take notes on anything that seems important.

Wander around until you feel ready to move on. Repeat the exercise a number of times and

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Clayton mayors get to write their column for our local newspaper without censorship. I will try not to abuse this right and treat this honor with respect for the position I now hold. Living in Clayton for almost 37 years and being active in the community, I realized years ago not everyone will agree with my thoughts or opinions. I also realized that everyone is entitled to their own thoughts and opinions.

My goal for the next year is to use this column (as allowed by law) as a medium to let our citizens know what has transpired in council, as well as what is on our agenda for future discussions. My hope is to get more citizens interested in our function as a city council and to attend meetings so that we can hear firsthand what you want.

If space allows, I also want to tell the story of Clayton and how this little city of 2,800 people has transformed and grown to its present population of nearly 11,000.

I want to acknowledge the silent heroes in our community who make a difference in our lives every day without getting noticed. If you know someone who qualifies, drop me a line.

Behind every good man is an even better woman. Since I would not be your mayor today

happen!) and check in with yourself at the end of every day on the progress you made.

6. Enlist the support of a good friend to help you keep the spirit of your intention for this life change alive.

Respect yourself enough to make improvements in the quality of your life that create significant improvement. It’s just one secret to making resolutions that have a sustainability. And if you need more – consider hiring a coach, seriously making a commitment to kick your goals and dreams into gear.

Dory Willer, SPHR, PCC, is a certified executive, business & life coach. She is the 2003 International Coach of the Year recipient and founder of Clayton’s Beacon Quest Coaching.

without mine, I want to acknowledge Debbie Mullins. She has been my partner and mentor for ten years. She is my sounding board, editor and my best friend.

Okay, so what has happened in our town these past few weeks? How many times have we heard that Clayton is like a Norman Rockwell town? Our holiday celebrations continued with the Holiday Tree Lighting and Mr. and Mrs. Claus having their annual tea party at Endeavor Hall. Both are great CBCA events.

The Clayton Historical Society opened its doors and held their Christmas Home Tour. The Clayton Pioneer sponsored their annual cookie contest.

We have one more event to look forward to in 2011, Clayton Counts Down. This is a volunteer-run event (guided by the city) and financially sponsored by donations. It will be held at the Clayton Community Gym on Dec. 31 from 5 to 8 p.m. What a great way to share New Year’s Eve with your children in an alcohol-free environment.

I wish everyone a healthy and happy holiday season. Make New Year’s resolutions that are attainable. Cherish your friends and family. They will never lose value or depreciate. Remember those less fortunate in these hard times and remember to start your day with a smile.

Send questions and comments to Councilmangeller@aol.com.

Letter to the Editor Homes needed for next year’s Home Tour The Clayton Historical Society’s second annual Christmas Homes Tour was very successful. We wish to thank the many people for their enthusiasm as they toured the five beautiful homes. We also wish to thank the homeowners for generously opening their lovely homes for all to see. Lastly, we could not have the tour without the many volunteers and committee members that worked so hard. This was an important fund raiser for the restoration of the garden of the museum. We hope to make this an annual event and are now, at Christmas, looking for homes for next year’s tour. If you have a home or know of a home that would be a good choice please contact JoAnn Caspar at 925-672-7680 before the end of this Christmas season. We would like to come and view it before all the decorations are taken down. If you worry about having your home on a tour please ask the homeowners that participated this this year.

They truly enjoyed sharing their beautiful homes.

Sincerely, Clayton Historical Society Tour Committee

Charter, from page 1 end of the day, they’re in a position where they’re judging whether or not the rationale for the denial is lawful.”

State Senator Mark DeSaulnier expressed his support for the charter petition in a written statement after the meeting.

“Students, parents, teachers, and school employees all agree and have been diligently working through the process to create a charter school at Clayton Valley High School,” he wrote.

“I support that effort and encourage all parties to come to a resolution on this soon.”

The Board plans to make its decision on the appeal at its meeting on Jan. 11, 2012, following a staff recommendation.

December 23, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

Directory of Advertisers Auto Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Business Services Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . . .672-8717

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Churches and Religion Eternal Life Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0295 St. Bonaventure Catholic Church . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5800

P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports

Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Black Diamond Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .777-3440 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212-3339 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 J&J’s Final Coat Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .625-5849 Smith & Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0138 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679

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PIONEER INFO 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

Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com

CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: Non-profit: $12 for first 30 words, $.20 each additional word Individual/non-commercial: $18 for first 30 words, $.30 each additional word Commercial: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 6720500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Mon.-Fri. Or, you may fax your typewritten ad and credit card information to (925) 672-6580. All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color,

sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.

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

Also on our Website are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.

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.

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Events Clayton Blood Drive - American Red Cross .800-733-2767 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737x205 Financial and Insurance Services Dawn King Bookkeeping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .933-0553 Held, Chris - Wells Fargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .609-9415 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Prosperitas Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7700 Snyder, Ken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .270-3617 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242

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Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Memo’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .691-6200 Ravioli’s Italian Market Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-3819 Subway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0621 Willows Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-1300

SERVICES Girl Gardening Garden care, monthly pruning and fertilizing services. Plant suggestions and installation.

Call or email Nicole Hackett 673-1746, or gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.

WANTED Come join Mazzei Realty!

Currently interviewing and hiring new and experienced real estate agents. Call 693-0757 for details.

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

Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Danmer Shutters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202-1220 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Mailing Services The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Optometry Foresight Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4100 Pet Services Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Pet Suites Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodie’s Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Real Estate and Mortgage Services 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

Help Fight Hunger Anna Chan – AKA: The Lemon Lady needs your help! Weekly commitment appreciated. Please contact Anna at 672-1988 or AnnaAndAva@gmail.com.

Recreation and Fitness All Out Sports League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203-5626 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Diablo FC Soccer Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-4625 Levity Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2995 Sport Chalet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .521-7009

Meals on Wheels Drivers 1 – 1 1/2 per week. Drivers and relief drivers needed for delivery of Meals on Wheels in East County. Call Jim at 673-0300 or e-mail hairbyjim@att.net.

Hospice of the East Bay – Anna’s Attic Volunteer at Anna’s Attic Thrift Shoppe, located at 5350 Clayton Road. For information call 6749072. To learn more about volunteering for Hospice of the East Bay please contact 8875678, or email volunteers@hospiceeatbay.org.

Clayton Historical Society Museum The Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter for two hours per month from 2-4 p.m.

Wednesdays or Sundays. Call the museum at 672-0240 and leave your name.

Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Minimum age 13. Minimum commitment is 6 months. Some training provided. Contact: Arlene @ 673-9777 or email: nielsenjanc@aol.com.

Senior Services Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Services, Other Ararat Exterminators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-7020 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 Specialty Shops Blessed Brides by Sarah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1200 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840 Holiday Guide A & H Limo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200-2824 Bella Mia Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-7792 Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Divine Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .349-9490 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Ghost Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .521-1913 Moresi’s Chophouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1333 Personal Chef Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-1418 Postal Annex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5246 The Royal Rooster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2025

Kindness Do the Right Thing

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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East County Fire looks to parcel tax to solve budget crisis, keep stations open CHERYL MORGAN Special to the Pioneer

If a parcel tax isn't passed, fire services in East Contra Costa County may go up in flames.

At least that's what officials at East Contra Costa Fire Protection District fear as they eye a budget shortfall of nearly $2.9 million.The district covers the Marsh Creek-Morgan Territory area, as well as other East County locations, including Discovery Bay and Byron.

The bad news came during a Town Hall meeting Dec. 15 about a proposed $197 per parcel tax. The meeting was sponsored by the Farm Bureau and the East Diablo Fairness Coalition.

Fire District Chief Hugh Henderson said that the property tax is needed to keep fire service at a manageable level.

Failure of this parcel tax would result in two-to-three station closures, leaving eight firefighters protecting 250 square miles, and response times would increase, according to statements released by the district.

Chief Henderson said that the shortfall is due mainly to the fact that property tax revenues have been declining since 2008, and operating revenue has decreased by 35 percent. The bottom line is a $2,873,188 shortfall, which by the end of the fiscal year will almost completely drain the reserve funds of the district.

Expenses are up, as well. For instance, Discovery Bay generates $1,241,000 in District revenue, yet operating Station #59 in Discovery Bay costs $1,900,000. The chief also pointed out that ECCFPD receives less property tax rev-

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Seconds later, in a psychotic rage, Moore fatally attacked Casso, stabbing him to death as he stood in front of his mailbox.

Last week, in a Martinez courtroom, Moore admitted to second degree murder, but was found “not guilty by reason of insanity” by Judge Barbara Zuni-

ga and will serve 16 years to life in a mental facility – either a state hospital or an outpatient facility.

Casso’s wife, JoAnn and several family members were in the courtroom to hear the verdict.

“We’re understandably upset,” JoAnn Casso said in an interview with the Pioneer. “I

Arrest, from page 1 the Deputy District Attorney in charge of the case.

Bail has been set at $1.1 million. Cottrell’s arraignment hearing was continued to Dec. 29 to give him time to review finances prior to hiring an attorney or having one appointed for him.

Walnut Creek Police Department Sergeant Tom Cashion said every effort was made to keep students from witnessing the arrest, which took place on school property.

Clayton PD and Walnut Creek plainclothes detectives arrived at the school mid-day.

School Principal Patti Bannister was in a meeting in her office and was taken completely by surprise, she said. Cottrell was summoned to the office and taken into an empty room where he was arrested and taken away in handcuffs.

“We did it very discreetly,” Cashion said. “But we did not want to delay, for obvious public safety reasons.”

Although Cottrell confessed to the allegations, Cashion said

investigation is continuing as to whether there are any other victims. He encouraged anyone with information to contact him. His telephone number is (925) 943-5844.

School district officials responded immediately following Friday’s arrest.

A telephone message went out to school parents that afternoon, advising them of Cottrell’s arrest on charges of having “alleged inappropriate relations with a former student.”

District officials and school administrators met over the weekend, so that by the start of school Monday morning, a plan was in place.

Students found familiar faces of DVMS teachers and administrators covering Cottrell’s classes on Monday, and a crisis team including counselors for students was mobilized.

District Superintendent Steven Lawrence along with school principal Patti Bannister and other District officials held a meeting Monday evening for

enue than other local fire districts.

ECCFPD Fire Fighters are among the lowest paid in Contra Costa County, and the region.

The ECCFPD has been able to avoid dipping into its reserve fund, as it ran at 60 percent of budget. It also has avoided asking for "revenue enhancements" – parcel taxes – until now.

In an effort to address the deficit problem, ECCFPD closed two stations in 2010 (#58 Discovery Bay & # 57 Byron), currently have five unfilled fire fighter positions, have left two administrative positions unfilled, deferred repairs on staff vehicles, engines and fire stations, reduced Fire Trail & Weed Abatement programs, and curtailed participation in outside training and conferences.

The $197 tax is more than twice the $98 per parcel that the

district considered last year. The higher tax is due to the fact that the district is including a fiveyear plan to improve services district wide, to pay capital improvements, and to increase the number of fire stations. The last proposal merely set out to keep fire services as is. The new proposal also incorporates lowered assumptions about the future recovery of economic indicators.

There were many questions from the audience members, especially those from unincorporated areas in the District, including those in the Marsh CreekMorgan Territory area. They are faced with a double whammy if the parcel tax passes, as they recently faced a new property assessment from Cal Fire. They will, in effect, be paying almost

don’t think he will ever get out, but still, it isn’t right. He knows what he did.”

Moore has a long history of mental illness and was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, said his attorney Barney Berkowitz. He claims Moore hallucinated in his rage and saw Casso as threatening him.

“I’m obviously not happy at all with what went down,”

Casso’s son Rick wrote in an email. “I believe he will never get out, but being able to petition the court in 180 days is an outright slap in the face…he knows what he did and knows right from wrong.”

Zuniga will hand down the final sentencing at a hearing on January 6 where the family will have an opportunity to speak.

parents to vent concerns and ask questions.

“There’s probably no bigger betrayal than what’s going on right now, both from a parental point of view and from an educator point of view,” said Lawrence to the assembled group.

Parents and teachers alike spoke at the meeting of how best to talk with students about what happened and to listen to their concerns. The stressed the importance of teaching them to speak out if something seems wrong, even if the wrongdoer is an authority figure.

Kelly Tuohey of Clayton has a 12 year old daughter who was in one of Cottrell’s classes.

“I’m sad and I’m angry that I have to have a conversation about something like that with my daughter who is innocent and doesn’t have the slightest inkling that it’s possible,” she said. “But people are talking,” she said.

Cathy Little, whose daughter attends the school, is a licensed therapist who has worked with adults and children who have suffered abuse.

“No matter what the parents’ values are or the parents’ beliefs are, the kids are going to be talking on the playground,” she pointed out.

“There’s going to be a lot of miscommunication and a lot of rumor, and it’s hard for children to figure out what’s real and what’s not. That can be very unsettling.”

“I encourage parents to be honest with their kids. They don’t have to go into graphic details, but the kids need to understand the extent of what happened. What is sexual molest, and what does that mean. It’s not just hugging.”

“Talk with them about what are right touches, what are wrong touches … that you can say no to a person of authority like a teacher if something is wrong.”

“I’m a big believer that out of a tragedy we can grow stronger,” said Bannister of her hope for the future. “It’s a whole community thing. And I think together we can begin to heal, and move forward.”

See Parcel tax page 7

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 7

Divorce can be a problem in buying LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS Q. I am in the process of getting a divorce. I have moved out of our home and would like to buy my own place. My initial inquiries for financing have been discouraging. Do I need to wait for the divorce to be final to make a home purchase?

A. You don’t need to wait, but the purchase transaction will be treated the same as if you didn’t have a pending divorce. The reason is that the lender has to know the potential liabilities of each spouse after the divorce is final. Also, the lender only deals with what has happened instead of what might happen.

If there is a spirit of cooperation in the divorce, your home purchase certainly can be done. Both spouses will need

to sign the loan documents or one can sign the documents but the other spouse would need to sign a “quit-claim” deed.

Of course the loan would only be in your name. You would have to qualify with your own income. Unfortunately, the spouse’s credit could also be a factor.

If the divorce is contentious you will have to wait until it is final.

Q. I have recently lost out on two homes that I made offers on. The sellers refused to even counter them. I wasn’t competing with other buyers on either one. Mine was the only offer.

My offers were at market value, as my Realtor and I went over the comparables extensively. I have 20 percent down and am preapproved for my loan.

What’s up with sellers these days?

A. It sounds like these sellers weren’t motivated to sell.

The reason a home owner is selling is the key in coming to

terms with a buyer. Your Realtor should try to find out what the seller’s situation is. Why are they selling? These days negotiation is definitely in style. If the seller is not flexible at all than don’t waste your time.

Move on.

Look for these keys as evidence of motivation: The List Price: Unfortunately some sellers are pricing their homes based on a previous year’s market.

Motivated sellers are prepared to sell their homes at market value today; Presentation - Motivated sellers prepare their homes for sale. Is the property well staged?

Reason for Selling - Is the seller being transferred?

Have they already bought another home? Is there a divorce or death in the family? Is their family growing?

Offers - Will the seller listen to offers in a reasonable time after they are written?

are homes taking to sell in our area? Has the property been on the market without a price reduction for longer than average?

Contingency - Will the seller only sell if they can find the right house to buy? You could wait forever for them to find their dream house; Urgency - Would they like to sell but are in no hurry or will only sell if they get a certain (unreasonably high) price?

Finally, make sure you are a motivated buyer. Are you flexible? A transaction between a motivated buyer and a motivated seller is a transaction that will close.

Send your question & look for your answer in a future column. Email: Lynne@LynneFrench.com Lynne French is the Broker/Owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions contact her at (925) 672-878 7 or stop in at 6200 Center Street, Suite E, in Clayton.

Any of these could signal a lack of motivation: Market Time - How long

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Parcel Tax,

from page 6

twice the amount that the residents of incorporated areas in the district will be asked to pay for fire services.

In response to some of the queries, Chief Henderson said the Sunshine station won't close if the parcel tax passes.

One idea that had been

suggested was the creation of a volunteer fire department, but district officials say that would almost certainly increase homeowner insurance rates. Also, maintaining a volunteer department requires substantial training costs, along with a high number of volunteers (40 per sta-

tion), who may or may not participate on calls, based on their work schedule, traffic or their proximity to station/call.

Chief Henderson reiterated that the proposal is still being drafted. Areas still being decided include a "sunset clause" – the ending of the assessment after a predetermined date in the future – and a citizen oversight

committee to monitor how funds are spent.

A parcel tax requires twothirds district-wide voter approval, or 66.7 percent.

More information is available at www.eccfpd.org.

Art for Life Foundation based right here in Clayton helps over 18,000 sick children nationwide using art as a part of their healing process.

In an emergency room, treatment waiting area, bedside, or rehab, wherever kids are in need of healing. . .

Art for Life is there.

Cheryl Morgan is a Morgan Territory resident and on the board of the ECCFPD. Email comments to cherylmorgan09@yahoo.com.

To donate online, visit artforlife.org, mail donation to Art for Life, P.O. Box 162, Clayton, CA 94517, or drop by Diamond Terrace to make a donation –

Pioneer Photo Album

See the Art for Life exhibit & receive a

Jim Gentz took this dramatic photo of the fog rolling in over the Clayton hills from his backyard on Brandywine.

In keeping with our motto, “It’s Your Paper,” the Pioneer is proud to spotlight our reader’s photos.

Send in your cute pets, funny kids, great landscapes, favorite sites in town or whatever makes your heart beat a little faster.

Email your photo in a hi-resolution jpeg or tiff format to album@claytonpioneer.com with a description of the photo, where and when it was taken and a little about why you like it. Include your name and phone number.

Then look for it in the next Pioneer.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 23, 2011

The art of pigging out on bacon

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Ahhhh... bacon. Smoky, salty goodness that’s aroma casts an intoxicating spell over even the most Kosher among us. How is it possible that a simple piece of cured pork sizzling feverishly could ignite such passion, such nostalgia, not to mention an international obsession?

The U.S., as well as a few other countries, has come to develop an obsession with bacon that has produced a marketing frenzy of such necessities as bacon syrup. You ask, have I actually seen such things? My answer is yes, and I bought it for my brother on his 21st birthday last year.

Move over cartoon character bandages. With bacon bandages, you’re as good as cured. Get it...cured?

Speaking of bacon humor, how about a “I LIKE VEGANS...wrapped in bacon sprinkled with brown sugar and baked til the sugar is bubbly”

SARAH ROSEN TEEN SPEAK t-shirt? And just so nobody is left out, those who choose not to bring actual pork into their homes can indulge guilt-free in bacon-scented candles. The perfect holiday gift this season? I think so.

Of course, this would never do for my younger brother’s best buddy, Sam Givens. You see, Sam is a “bacon ninja,” according to my brother. Frying the delectably fatty goodness is

an art form that Sam learned from his beloved grandpa... not that that stops Sam from fighting his mentor for the last salty strip at breakfast.

Sam begins frying shirtless, braving the grease spatters, but saving his t-shirts from the evils of oil stains. Not too crisp, and not too fatty either, he has watched his grandpa – the “Bacon Master” – for years and now slowly begins to take the reigns of “manhood.”

In my own household, bacon has always been a prized commodity. With two brothers, who would ever guess otherwise?

This past Thanksgiving, my older brother, Jared, and I took our undying love for bacon to a new level. Inspired by the popular Canadian YouTube video series “Epic Meal Time,” we opted to create the infamous “bacon weave.” This is an art form that should be endeavored by only the most skilled of

bacon artists.

Weaving uncooked strips of bacon together to create a beautifully crafted masterpiece, Jared and I proceeded to place our mother’s delicious home-made mashed potatoes on top of the bacon weave, reaching a whole new level of delectable side dishes. Add that with a side of chocolate-covered bacon, and you’re set.

Whatever the cause for this sudden bacon obsession, it’s clear that it’s not going anywhere. I say take full advantage.

So, go out this holiday season and buy your loved ones what they really want: bacon air fresheners, bacon perfume/cologne, or a bacon wallet. Don’t forget to wrap it in bacon wrapping paper.

Sarah Rosen is a senior at CVHS. You can e-mail her at sarah_rosen@claytonpioneer.com.

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The event that happened on Dec. 9 has taken the Diablo Valley Middle School – and the entire community – by surprise.

What I am referring to is the arrest of Mr. Cottrell, the math and science teacher, for sex crimes against a student.

Everyone’s opinion has taken spark, like fireworks shooting off into the sky. Words can’t explain the shock, misery and surprise this unfortunate event has caused on campus.

We shouldn’t just be concerned about just the arrest, but

also his family, the victim and the victim’s family. The community is distraught, but the family is deeply affected.

We also need to be concerned about how this will affect the education of the students.

The sixth graders have a lot to learn to get ready for future math classes. The students need to focus on school.

If we see something amiss, we should report it. We all have the right to speak up, but we must do so in a respectful way.

We are all human. We all make

mistakes – small mistakes, big mistakes – that can change a lifetime. Nobody is perfect, and we will never be close to being perfect.

I never had Mr. Cottrell as a teacher, but my sister did. She said he was a good teacher. She learned things in earth science and math that she never knew.

I was also shocked by the comments from adults on the local blog, Claycord.com. There were many derogatory remarks about Mr. Cottrell, but I only saw one post concerning his

CELINE HERRERA DVMS REPORTER family.

In the end, we should look at the good and bad things we did in life and learn from our mistakes.

Celine Herrera is an eighthgrader at DVMS. Send comments to. Celine@claytonpioneer.com.

Get smart about tech gadgets this season

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK

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Many people have technology on their shopping lists this year. If you’re considering a smart-phone, tablet or computer, you have lots of choices, but there are some issues you should consider before buying.

First off, if you’re in the market for a computer this year,

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wait. Don’t buy one unless you must. There is currently a hard drive shortage due to flooding in Thailand, so disk prices are triple their regular price, thereby pushing the final cost of a computer up between 10-20 percent.

This problem should ease by March 2012. So, if you can wait, do so.

But getting back to the task at hand, which device is right for you or your loved ones? Smart-phones are not tablets, and tablets are not computers. All three have similarities but they are very much different, at least for the next year.

Smart-phones are, well, phones.

The primary purpose of a smart-phone is to communicate and they do it better than tablets or computers. However, they are not intended to be computers,

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nor do they have the display area a tablet has for photos, graphics or game play. When considering a smart-phone don’t make the mistake of projecting

what you may believe the phone should do.

Realize it is a phone. What it isn’t is a computer, primarily because it doesn’t run complicated applications.

Yes, smart-phones do have app stores and organized places for you to shop for apps but

these apps are not full programs.

They are simply little snippets of programs. Itty-bitty, small, not very useful apps for finding a restaurant or a competitive price for shoes. (Well, I misspoke.

Finding a sale is important, isn’t it?)

For example, you can’t run a full Microsoft Office application. However, you can find your way home with a GPS app. But real applications and programs – no. You’re lucky to run your email. Smart-phones are good for phone calls, Tweets, or very

Tech Talk, page 9

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

No winter break for gardeners

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL During December, the very last thing I want to do is step outside and garden in the wet, cold weather. It is hard this time of year to find any garden inspiration when the leaves are all over the ground and the perennials are dying back. Unfortunately, some jobs in the garden can’t wait. It’s what we do now that ensures our spring will be all that it can be.

Fruit tree growers have some spraying to do. If you grow any peaches, pears, apricots, pears or plums, you need to spray a fungicide, now, in late January-early February, and again in late March, before the flower buds open.

Each year, during the summer months, fruit tree growers visit the nursery, asking about remedies for peach leaf curl and fire blight. When active, there is nothing that you can do to treat these types of tree killing fungus. You need to take control of the tree during the dormant season. That season is now.

There’s a lot of various fungicide available for use these days, whether you are choosing to grow your fruits organically, or not, it is up to you. An old faithful fungicide to control both blight and curl is a Copper fungicide. Many various labels sell a copper fungicide. We use Monterey’s products, but any will do. Look for an active amount of the Copper Ammonium combination of at least 30 percent. For those gardeners interested in spraying with an

organic, Serenade is a great choice. The feedback has been good as to how well it works.

Pests can also be a problem for fruit trees. Scale is one of the most wide-spread pests that torment fruit tree growers. Now is the time to make your attack.

Mineral oils or Neem oils can be applied now to control future outbreaks. When spraying a fruit tree, spray the branches, trunk and the soil along the root area, as the little buggers hide in all of these locations.

Citrus trees will need to have a fertilizer applied now and later without any nitrogen. You can use a 0-10-10 granular, or a 2-10-10 liquid concentrate. Applying this type of fertilizer helps your citrus develop its fruit, and also helps its roots and leaves become hardy to the cold temperatures.

KEEP FLOWERS HEALTHY Hydrangeas need to have a couple of applications of aluminum sulfate now, in late January and again in the beginning of March. This product is a vitamin for the hydrangea, not a food, so in March you’ll still have to apply your regular fertilizer.

Sprays such as Wilt-Stop are available to help keep your tender plant’s foliage and stems from dehydrating during frost spells. It is the dehydration that causes the stress to your plants. Hibiscus, bougainvillea, gardenia, ginger, palms, some broad-leafed salvias and vines are all very susceptible to frost damage. Watering before frost also helps your tender plants, and of course, covering with a material like sheet, or draping twinkle lights throughout the plants help, too.

The chrysanthemums that you bought for fall should be planted in a summer sunny location and pruned back. They will thrive again; it just won’t be until next year. Coreopsis, Echinacea, Rudbeckia, salvia, and cannas should be cut back to the ground.

Tech Talk, from page 8 short messages, but not much good for sustained work.

Then there are e-readers, great reader devices, like the Amazon Kindle or Kindle Fire.

If you love to read and don’t necessarily want to drag books around, or trundle to your favorite book store, then this tablet is your device. They have great readability in sunlight or shade and are an affordable and convenient way to carry around best sellers. What they are not is a computer as they do not run apps. The fact is applications have been deliberately disabled so they won’t run unless created

by Amazon. Let’s not wait for Amazon to create a word

processor.

Some tablets are really laptop computers and not very good at reading or typing but passable for some computer applications, such as creating that family photo album, assembling music play lists or creating a short letter. Tablets are limited-use devices and not much good at long typing chores, unless you want to lug around a spare keyboard.

Computers are still at the top of the food chain when it comes to real work, but they are only fair when it comes to verbal communications. Sure there’s Skype and other phone applications and they can make phone

If not in January, by middle of February for sure. Cutting back the roses needs to be done in late January. I will write a column on that later.

DON’T FORGET YOUR LAWN If you are one of those unlucky individuals that had crabgrass in your lawn this past year, now is the time to get control of the problem. Use a lawn food with a pre-emergent beginning Jan. 1, and apply every six weeks through April. You need to kill the crabgrass before it wakes up.

Starting after the New Year, while it is raining, apply a dose of fertilizer to your entire landscape, and let the rains take it to the roots. A multi-purpose fertilizer is

Page 9

Join us this Christmas to worship Christ, the Savior – King

great for this type of feeding.

Give some to everything, so your plants have a good start when spring arrives. Fertilizing during the winter rains is like breakfast for plants, since it gets the plants off to a great start.

I am sure you have other things you would like to do this winter, but there is work to do in the garden all year long. Happy Gardening.

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden and the 2011 Clayton Valley Garden Club president.

Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

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Clayton Club Saloon Clayton’s oldest and continuously operated business, now known as the Clayton Club, was built by Jacob Rhine, circa 1873. Rhine operated the facility as a hotel/saloon and ice cream parlor at its present site. In 1898, the saloon was known as The National Saloon and later the Eagle Saloon.

In 1905 Carl Berendsen bought the saloon and renamed it The Clayton Club.

Later he added a building that he had shipped from San Francisco to Martinez and transported overland to Clayton. The combined structure served as a saloon, restaurant and the Berendsen family

calls that include visual links with the person you’re calling, but it is hard to lug around. Laptops make lugging easier but they are still bulky.

There you have it – smartphones, tablets and computers, all very similar but all very different. I believe you must choose the primary purpose of the device before you commit to buy. No one device will do it all so pick your priorities then pick your device. Next year, you’re going to be pleasantly surprised at the new crop of smartphones by Nokia powered by Windows 8. Wow. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all my readers and thank you for all your support through the years, here’s wishing you a very prosperous New Year.

home. During prohibition – 1920 to 1933 – the Clayton Club was renamed the Clayton Café and Social Club and offered non-alcoholic drinks, meals and entertainment.

In 1959 Jennie and Carl Milano bought the Clayton Club and in 1996 their daughter, Dolores Austin, restored the facility. In October 2002 it was purchased by the current owners Steve Barton, Dennis Mitchell, and Joe Tulipano who carry on the Clayton Club’s tradition of lively western hospitality and community involvement at this historical location.

William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to will@claytonpioneer.com.

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Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 23, 2011

Clayton Sports Sports Year in Review: Local athletes shine Tournament of Champions for the first time in school history.

The DeLong sisters and Hailee Espinoza took three of the top four spots in the DVAL Tournament. McKenna DeLong was DVAL MVP. The young Eagles figure to be right up there again in 2012.

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

On the national level 2011 sports seemed to have begun and ended with the Green Bay Packers as the biggest story, winning the Super Bowl in February and attempting to repeat with a near-perfect record.

Unfortunately, labor issues and sex scandals have grabbed more than their share of the headlines in the fun and games department.

In the Bay Area, the San Francisco 49ers have been revitalized under a new coach while the Raiders lost their iconic owner Al Davis yet showed some signs of edging towards respectability on the field. The Giants sold out the season but failed to repeat as World Champions and the A’s failed to draw crowds or keep their top players.

The Sharks fell short in the playoffs and the Warriors – even under new ownership – maintained their habit of not making the post-season.

In Clayton Pioneer territory, 2011 was packed full of high achievements by teams and individuals, which we are highlighting in this final issue of the year.

Just like the X Factor, we’re not listing our Top 10 in any particular order but salute all of them, along with all those who graced our sports pages during the past 12 months.

KRISTIAN IPSEN In 2003 I also did a sports year in review and a young diver named Kristian Ipsen was one of the “8 Elite Athletes” profiled for winning a national junior championship. This year no athlete was mentioned in more articles than our globetrotting diver who has at least one national title every year since 2003. Before he enrolled in Stanford University he capped a remarkable prep career at De La Salle by winning his fourth successive North Coast Section championship and was again named All-America. He’s stepped right into college diving this fall with winning results for the Cardinal. That would certainly be enough to earn a spot on our list but young Mr. Ipsen has also been circling the globe representing the United States in the FINA World Championships and Pan Am Games, among other meets. He also grabbed two senior national

Mike Dunn

AFTER 11 YEARS in the dugout as coach at Clayton Valley High School Bob Ralston was hired last summer to coach the Cal State University East Bay baseball team. Ralston took the Eagles to the North Coast Section championship game four times, winning the title in 2009. This year’s squad lost to defending champ Campolindo in the section finale.

Photo courtesy Stanford Athletics Communications

CLAYTON’S KRISTIAN IPSEN HAS BEEN COMPETING around the globe this year while representing at various times De La Salle High School, Diablo Divers and the United States. This fall the 19year-old is a Stanford Cardinal competing in collegiate diving for the first time.

individual titles. All of these 2011 accomplishments will fade in comparison if Kristian qualifies for the US Olympic Team next summer in London.

BOB RALSTON & CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL In a “normal” year we could put CVHS baseball on this list for their annual spring accomplishments, just as we did in 2003. The Diablo Valley Athletic League three-time champion Eagles, despite losing the services of their #1 pitcher and player Chaz Meadows for a major portion of the season, went all the way to the NCS title game for the fourth time since 2002.

The team lost that rain-delayed June finale to defending champ Campolindo in an uncharacteristic sloppy performance but Clayton Valley baseball didn’t leave the headlines after that.

Long-time coach Bob Ralston was selected in the summer as the new head coach at Cal State East Bay, leaving behind a sterling record which included the 2009 NCS championship, the school’s first which came during the CVHS Silver Anniversary.

Recently, Eagles football coach Herc Pardi was named interim baseball coach for the Eagles next spring.

CVHS GIRLS & BOYS SOCCER Clayton Valley’s boys and girls soccer teams have been dominating during the past two DVAL seasons and 2010-2011 saw each race through league play and back into the NCS playoffs. Scott Booth’s girls did not surrender a goal while claiming a repeat DVAL crown.

League MVP Kelsey Booth, now playing for San Diego State, and 11 senior teammates ended a successful season in the second round of the playoffs having given up only 14 goals in 24 games. For the Eagles boys of coach Rory Gentry an undefeated league season was the springboard to making NCS semi-finals for the first time in school history with DVAL offensive MVP Elisama Padilla Jr. and defensive MVP Christian Pedraza leading the way. Padilla led all East Bay scorers, setting several school records in the process.

CLAYTON VALLEY GIRLS BASKETBALL Sophomore league MVP Ashley Allen helped the CVHS girls basketball team to an undefeated league championship, their first league crown since 1999. That would be quite a label for the 2010-11 season but the Eagles won 20 in a row to reach the NCS finals and qualified for Northern California Playoffs. In order to achieve these lofty heights, the Eagles of coach Bernard Barnes needed to stop Northgate’s 28-game league winning streak and then beat the Broncos two more times, including in NCS. In the section finals the Eagles came up one point short to top-seeded Dougherty Valley. All five starters were All-DVAL. KARA KOHLER In June 2009 Kara Kohler graduated from Clayton Valley High and looked forward to enrolling at Cal Berkeley try her hand at rowing, a sport she had never done. The former CVHS and Dana Hills swimmer was spotted by the Cal coaching staff as having the right body type and athletic skills for rowing. Well, that seemed to be a wise choice since Kohler is now a World Champion after helping the USA Women’s Four gold medal row in Bled, Slovenia at the World Rowing Championships in September. The previous summer she was part of a winning USA boat in the Under 23 World Championships. This year she was a repeat All-America at Cal as a sophomore and helped USA boats win titles at the legendary Henley Royal Regatta in England and the World Cup III in Switzerland. Like Ipsen, Kohler is looking to exceed all these accomplishments by earning a spot in the 2012 London Olympics.

CVHS GIRLS GOLF Eagles golf coach Chance Gernhardt set a goal for his girls team to win the DVAL title this fall and compete in the NCS tournament—-all of this for a school that had never won a girls league golf title. That expectation was met as sisters McKenna and Rachel DeLong helped the Eagles win the league and make it to NCS

DIABLO FC 95 BOYS SOCCER Diablo FC 95 boys soccer team has been extremely successful for the past several years. However, when it came to State Cup the squad coached

by John Badger seemed snake bit as it finished second three years in a row to rival Santa Clara Sporting. This year was no different but by taking second the team earned a valuable wild card berth in the USYSA Western Regionals in Boise where they defeated the #1 team in the country at the time and eventual Regional champions, San Diego Surf. That gave the local competitive team confidence as it has since won the prestigious Surf Cup and Santa Clara Sporting Invitational, took first in the new Regional Academy League and is dominating Western College Development Association North Pacific Division. The worst tournament result for the team this year has been second place.

These results earned Diablo FC 95, now coached by Brian Voltattorni, ranking as the #2 under 16 boys soccer team in America.

SERGE VICTOR & DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM Like Clayton Valley baseball, the Dana Hills Otters were one of the teams of the year in 2003 when they won their 11th Concord City Meet championship streak broken. Since then the Otters have rattled off nine straight City Meet championships (19 of the past 20 overall) and this summer also took first in the Contra Costa Swim League, both by extremely large margins. They were also second in the competitive Woodlands Invitational and capped the season with a flourish by finishing runner-up in the 51st annual Contra Costa County Meet. The team did this in record-breaking fashion, setting 12 individual and seven DHST relay records. Dana Hills was also in the headlines early this year when it rehired Serge Victor as head coach.

Victor had led the team to its previous best-ever County Meet result in 1995 (second place) before moving on to other assignments, including Aquatics Director at Oakhurst Country Club. Victor and his assistants Kelsey Brassil and Marisa Marr hit all the right notes for an Otters year to remember.

MORE TEAMS, INDIVIDUALS TO REMEMBER This year had many more achievements of note. CVHS alum Steve Coccimiglio coached his 500th victory for Diablo Valley College basketball in January and former CVHS star Damon Mashore was promoted to a minor league manager post for the Los Angeles Angels. During spring training local lefty Clayton Tanner pitched for the World Champion San Francisco Giants while Chris Mazza from Clayton Valley and Menlo College signed a pro baseball contract with the Minnesota Twins.

Domenic Mazza, a CVHS sen-

repeated as NCS wrestling champ. Clayton Valley senior Alex Tate made her third straight appearance at the State cross country meet where junior teammate Emma Schoenstein also ran. Clayton Valley wrestling reached the NCS Dual Team East Bay Championships finals and then sent Troy Lakin, Aaron Swift and Ben O’Connor to State Meet. Mt. Diablo Soccer and Diablo FC teams enjoyed many top finishes in tournaments throughout the year, with MDSA shining at Concord Cup last May and Area 2C Cup in the fall. Michael Stupka made the CIF State Meet

Photo courtesy Scott Anderson

SOPHOMORE ASHLEY ALLEN LED CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL on a 20-game winning streak that took the Eagles to an undefeated 2010-11 DVAL season, to the NCS tournament finals and onto the Northern California playoffs for the first time in over a decade for CVHS girls basketball. Allen was named league MVP. She suffered a back injury last summer that has delayed her junior season debut this winter.

ior and Chris’ cousin, finished in the top 24 at the World Long Drive Championships last month. CVHS grads Vince Bruno and Darrel Matthews, both sophomores, were key components of the fairytale Cal Bears baseball team that was to be eliminated after the 2011 season before being saved by a group of alumni and supporters and then made a miracle run to the College World Series.

Local athletes enjoyed the success of De La Salle’s 2011 CIF State football championship along with the Carondelet and DLS NCS soccer crowns and the Spartans NCS and Northern California golf titles. Joe Moita of De La Salle

Photo courtesy Dana Hills Swim Team

DEREK ANDERSON WAS THE DVAL BOYS swimming MVP while setting a league and school record in his specialty, the 100 backstroke. Before he departed for the Long Beach State water polo team to play goalie he helped Dana Hills Swim Team during the summer to its most successful season ever as Anderson was a team leader setting team, league, city and county meet records in the back.

finals in 400 meters for CVHS while Christo Lopez was league co-MVP this fall for undefeated Eagles league and tournament water polo champs. Seniors Derek Anderson and Allyson Hansen won DVAL MVP swimming laurels last spring when Clayton Valley girls track and boys lacrosse won DVAL championships. Joe Protheroe went into the school record books helping CVHS football to NCS. AND, FINALLY, SOME THINGS NEW Teams, leagues and competitions return year after year. It was exciting in 2011 to have some new programs come into our sports community. St. Bonaventure CYO has offered basketball and track for area elementary and middle school athletes for decades. This fall longtime St. Bonnies track coach Joe Sullivan came out of retirement to start a CYO Cross Country team which competed in all age groups at the season-ending Oakland Diocese meet. All Out Sports League took over operation of programs at Clayton Community Gym last year after the bankruptcy of the Mt. Diablo Region YMCA. This year founder Casey Copeland kicked things into high gear with youth basketball and volleyball leagues.

The first basketball league in the summer filled with 120 kids and the fall and winter programs sold out too. AOSL also brought adult softball back this fall to Clayton Community Park.

December 23, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Sports Spotlight Name: Karley Menez Age: 17 Team: CVHS Basketball Sport: Basketball Karley Menez has been nothing if not consistent during her first three years on the Clayton Valley High School varsity basketball team. She’s averaged 11.0 (freshman), 12.0 (sophomore) and 11.9 (junior) points per game as a shooting guard for the Eagles. She’s been their leading three-point threat and helped them reach

the Northern California playoffs last year while earning first team all-DVAL honors.

With league MVP Ashley Allen suffering a back injury in the summer the 2011-12 Eagles aren’t off to the start coach Bernard Barnes expected. However the 5-8 senior Menez is doing all she can to keep the Eagles moving until

ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUE

AOSL PRESENTS the basket and draw fouls. In addition, she has developed into a smart defensive player and has an amazing basketball IQ.” In that game against Deer Valley Pascoe referred to Menez poured in a career high 33 points (her previous best was 30 as a freshman) plus 10 rebounds and seven steals.

That capped a four-game run when Menez averaged 21 points a game.

Athlete

Allen hopefully returns for the stretch run of the season.

Assistant coach Kris Pascoe says, “Her game against Deer Valley was amazing. She was rebounding, getting steals and scoring. Karley has evolved into a multi-threat player.

When she was a freshman, she was primarily just an outside shooter. Now, she can attack

Page 11

The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Karley Menez and rewards her achievement with a gift certificate to Rocco’s Ristorante & Pizzeria.

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.

2012 SPRING LEAGUES Registration now open

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Diablo FC premier teams excel this season in new high-calibre leagues JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

When it was announced that Diablo FC had entered its teams in two new high-calibre programs this year there was probably some trepidation as to how its teams would fare. According to Director of Coaching Brian Voltattorni the verdict is in and it’s “two thumbs up” for the local competitive soccer club.

Four Diablo FC teams won their divisions in the Regional Academy League run by NorCal Premier, the US Club Soccer program in Northern California.

Moving forward RAL is embracing its affiliation with USCS with its top league being renamed National Premier Leagues, which has affiliated top clubs and leagues from all over the United States. Diablo FC was one of only three clubs in Northern Cal-

ifornia to have all 10 of its U14U18 boys and girls teams in RAL Premier.

The under 16 and U17 boys and girls teams from Diablo each claimed RAL championships this fall. The U16 boys Diablo FC 95, who are currently ranked as the #2 team in America, won its RAL flight with an 8-2 record.

The older U17 Diablo FC 94 boys also topped RAL standings with a 7-1-2 mark.

Diablo FC 93 was the only unbeaten U18 boys team in RAL but had three draws and finished third while also handing league champs Mustang Reds their only loss. The U14 Diablo FC 97 boys were runner-up in RAL. The U12 and U13 boys from Diablo FC each won its NorCal Premier flights this fall as well. The U13 Diablo FC 98 team will enter National Premier Leagues play next year.

Sports Shorts MDSA TASMANIAN DEVILS GIRLS SECTION FINALISTS In the final fall tournament for AYSO teams, Mt. Diablo Soccer under 12 girls MDSA Tasmanian Devils made it to the championship game of the Section 2 finals earlier this month in Foster City.

The Section 2 tournament featured top teams from Nevada, Oregon, Washington and Northern California. Coach Roberto Lopez saw his Devils win two games and draw a third without surrendering a goal to win their flight and reach the U12 title match against Davis Crush before falling 4-0. The Devils and three other MDSA teams won their age groups at Area 2C Cup to qualify for Section. The U10 MDSA Cranberry Crush girls took fourth in their Section age group.

LOCAL MMA FIGHTER RICK REGER WINS QUICK BOUT Mixed Martial Arts rising star Rick “Boomer” Reger continued his undefeated win streak at the Gladiator Challenge earlier this month at Thunder Valley Resort and Casino in Lincoln. The Concord native won in spectacular fashion with a 41-second victory by way of rear choke over undefeated Body Brown of Los Angeles.

“It’s funny, our training camp for this fight was 12 weeks and the fight only lasted 41 seconds,” said Reger. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love the grueling workouts.” His business partner and manager Sean Sharkey believes Reger will be getting a title shot with Gladiator Challenge “by either March or at the latest June. Winning a world title with Gladiator Challenge can open doors to the UFC,” according to Sharkey.

CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE ADDS IN PERSON REGISTRATION JAN. 7 Registration for Clayton Valley Little League is open for the spring 2012 season. Baseball programs for players ages four to 14 and softball for girls six to 14 are both open for registration. Players must reside within the CVLL boundaries. There will be one “live” registration day on Saturday, Jan. 7, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Clayton Library. Go to cvll.org for complete information and to register both players and coaches. Tryouts will be held from Jan. 21-29.

The online Clayton Valley Little League merchandise store is open in order to stock up on CVLL gear before the season or for holiday gifts at cvll.org.

For the Diablo FC girls both the U16 (7-0-1) and U17 (8-2) teams won their Premier Division titles in RAL. The U14 Diablo FC 97 girls were runners-up with a 7-2 record while U15 Diablo FC 96 took third. The U12 girls from Diablo FC 99 were second in NorCal Premier while the U13 girls were fourth.

“RAL is the top playing league in Northern California and I think it speaks volume to the strength of our club to have finished so highly in league standings with four league champions and four more teams finishing in the top three,” Voltattorni explains. “WCDA is the strongest playing league on the West Coast for boys and Diablo FC is one of the top three clubs in WCDA West Coast for overall standings from U13-U18.”

Voltattorni, who resigned from his De La Salle High

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School soccer coaching post with his third straight North Coast Section title and fifth overall leading the Spartans, adds, “The level of play for RAL is extremely high - the best clubs in Northern California are playing here now.

“WCDA brings together the top clubs from the West Coast to compete in Showcase events for college coaches. Needless to say, the level of play is very high with respected clubs represented from all over the West. Their Showcase in Las Vegas over Thanksgiving was very impressive and beneficial for our club. There were very high-level matches against top competition with over 100 college coaches present recruiting, all-star events for our top seniors, a college presentation and youth training for our

See Diablo FC, page 12

DIABLO FC U8 ACADEMY WINTER SOCCER PROGRAM COMING The 11th annual Diablo FC Winter Soccer Academy is now accepting registrations. The program for boys and girls 5-12 years of age is held Jan. 6-Feb. 16 on Mondays and Thursdays from 5-6 p.m. at Willow Pass Park in Concord. Camp Director Brian Voltattorni says the Academy is a developmental soccer program that teaches basic dribbling, juggling, passing and shooting skills to players of all ability levels from novice to players on competitive teams. For complete details and to register visit diablofc.org.

SPRING SIGNUPS FOR MT. DIABLO SOCCER NOW OPEN Mt. Diablo Soccer is now accepting applications for its spring program. Players who participated in the just-completed fall season are charged only $50 for spring. Boys and girls 3-1/2 to 18 years of age can take part. Under 12 and older divisions in spring league are co-ed. Spring league ends in mid-May and is generally less formal than fall with players getting the opportunity to play soccer without any post-season playoff pressure. Registration is being taken online at mdsoccer.org.

TRYOUTS FOR 2012 DIABLO FC TEAMS SET FOR JANUARY, FEBRUARY Competitive soccer team tryouts in Diablo FC for boys and girls in the under nine through under 14 age groups will be held in Concord during January and February. Players born between Aug. 1, 2001 and July 31, 2005 can tryout Jan. 22-29 for U9 through U11 teams. The U12-U14 tryouts Feb. 9-16 are for players born Aug. 1, 1998 to July 31, 2001. To register online for the free tryouts and a complete schedule visit diablofc.org.

SPRING YOUTH VOLLEYBALL, BASKETBALL ACADEMY AT CLAYTON

GYM

Spring youth basketball academy for boys and girls of all skill levels in first through ninth grades is returning to Clayton Community Gym for seven Friday evenings starting April 6.

Signups are also being taken for spring youth volleyball league, which will run on Saturdays from Mar. 3-April 28.

Spring adult leagues for basketball and volleyball are also gearing up. For more information or to register for any program offered by All Out Sports at the gym, visit alloutsportsleague-clayton.com.

Dec. 31, 4-6 pm, Kids & Family, $8/bowler 10 pm - 1 am, Open play, $15/bowler

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Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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December 23, 2011

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NEW WAVE AQUATICS, A USA SWIM TEAM in Clayton coached by Serge Victor, saw its 10 and under girls freestyle relay team take second to the legendary Santa Clara Swim Club at the Pacific Swimming Junior Olympics Championships in early December at Morgan Hill. The 200-yard free relay team included, from left, Camille Cline, Sarah Hamilton, Logan Sherman and Gabi Mancini. The local relay clocked 1:59.95, beating out Orinda CC, Crow Canyon CC and Stanford Palo Alto swim team. The girls 10 and under 200 medley relay was second in a time of 2:16.02 with Hamilton, Ali Silva, Alex Brown and Sherman swimming. New Wave had top individual performances as well from Allie Klinger, Hamilton and Melisa Scull, among others. Many of the New Wave swimmers are part of the Dana Hills Swim Team during the summer recreation season.

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Diablo FC, from page 11 98/99 age players with a US National Team staff coach.”

Both RAL and WCDA combine league play with college showcase events for players to be able to play on their team in front of many college coaches against premier competition. “The RAL Showcase was a huge success as well. Many college coaches were present to watch the top Northern California clubs compete against each other,” the local coaching director added.

Diablo FC begins its 11th annual Winter Soccer Academy Jan. 5 for boys and girls 5-12 years-old. Tryouts for U9-U11 teams for 2012 are Jan. 22-29

while U12-U14 tryouts are Feb. 9-16. Complete Academy and tryout information is available at diablofc.org.

Voltattorni summed up the new endeavors for his club, “We’re very excited about the future of Diablo FC as part of US Club National Premier Leagues and WCDA. These prestigious leagues offer our Diablo FC players the absolute premier playing experience with maximum exposure to college coaches and showcases. Our club is exclusively offering these opportunities in Central and Eastern Contra Costa.”

WITH

LEVITY

The topic for today is connections. Physical connections, metaphysical connections, even the surprise of both can serve to help every one of us to experience the unique and beautiful opportunities life has to offer.

Take the time to find and develop your self-confidence and discover this year what you are truly capable of.

As we prepare for the close of 2011, I am reminded that most connections, like that of mother to child, brother to sister, friend to friend, boss to employee, even husband to wife, either superficial or intense, serves a purpose. I often think our many connections offer us a glimpse into a life not unlike our own, reconfirming the idea that we all in this world together. We then learn to motivate and counsel those in less fortunate situations then ourselves, and we begin to rise to our truest potential and greater selves.

As I work with many clients throughout the day, I am privileged to witness these connections while making new ones of my own. The most wonderful thing I see, on a daily basis, is the bonds that are created when people must learn to push past fear. Most of my personal training clients train on a three-person-to-one trainer scale. My clients tend to establish quick bonds with each other both because they are fighting the

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Make a ‘Bucket List’ for 2012 In just two days we will be celebrating Christmas, and in a week we’ll be thinking about New Year’s Resolutions. It seems like just yesterday we were making ours for 2011. Did you make a few resolutions this year? How many did you keep?

Did you start your physical fitness program? How about get-

ting your emergency preparedness supplies together?

How about we look at resolutions a little differently this year and make a bucket list. I think many of us know about bucket lists having seen the movie of the same name with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. I suggest we set down on paper a list of goals or objectives we would like to accomplish in 2012.

To start, let’s think of things we can do to improve our quality of life. Here are a few sugges-

tions that you may find helpful in making your bucket list.

1. Get into shape if not already. Join one of the gym/health clubs we have available in Clayton or hike or bike on a regular basis on one of our great trails.

2. For the “mature” individual (age 50+) consider attending an AARP Driver Safety Class.

3. Attend a free two-hour Emergency Preparedness class at the library or the free 20-hour class at Endeavor Hall. Watch for details in future editions of

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same fight; each client is challenged by the other to push past their perceived limits in order to keep up with the team. This connection is both physical and metaphysical. As each one physically challenges the others, they also gently but firmly motivate each another. They begin to connect and that cohesion allows them to step further toward their goals, confident, fit, secure that they are not the only ones fighting the battle to stay fit.

For example, I train a small group of women that have been working hard to rebuild their bodies, step by grueling step. They are very different women with very different personalities to match their body types. They come in every session, happily dictating the ideas of the day. As they work intensely together then learn a great deal about one another and eventually the bond that has formed is amazing. They now readily respond to help one another in class, and they recognize instantly the sad or bad moods of the other and quickly offer encouraging words. They even begin to dress alike – same colors, same clothes – without even knowing or trying. I believe sometimes this bond that is created is so strong it even surprises them as they begin to they realize how much impact one individual can make on another.

So as you prepare for the New Year, think about your connections. Don’t be afraid to reach out – for help, for motivation, for a kind word or just a smile. But, remember if you reach out, allow someone to touch you. Like the great Dr. Seuss said, “Oh, the places you’ll go!”

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SAFETY ZONE the Clayton Pioneer.

4. Help improve the safety of your neighborhood. Organize a Neighborhood Watch meeting.

Contact the Clayton Police Department at 925-673-7350.

6. Become a volunteer.

There are many opportunities out there: help at a school; participate in Clayton activities/ events; consider helping at Meals on Wheels, assist at the Food Bank, etc.

7. Are there some places you would like to see or things to do next year? Climb Mt. Shasta, snowshoe in Yellowstone or perhaps learn to cross country ski? These are just a few ideas for your bucket list.

Harun and I would like to wish our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy new Year.

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.

December 23, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 13

How the interest rate rollercoaster impacts stocks, bond investments Actions of the Federal Reserve can have long-reaching effects on your portfolio

CHRIS HELD

FINANCIAL SENSE The rise and fall of interest rates is one of the biggest factors influencing the economy, financial markets and our daily lives. It is important to have a basic understanding of how interest rate changes could affect not only your wallet but also your investment portfolio.

Simply put, interest rates help control the flow of money in the economy. Typically the Federal Reserve lowers interest

rates to jump-start the economy.

Lower interest rates mean consumers may be willing to spend more money as the cost to finance a purchase is relatively inexpensive. This stimulates the economy in a variety of ways, including increased revenues from products sold to the consumers and taxes generated from those sales. Investors, on the other hand, have a different perspective.

Bond Investors: As interest rates fall, the prices of previously issued bonds tend to rise. The new issues are offered at lower, less appealing rates. That makes bonds with higher interest rates much more desirable and that much more in demand. On the other hand, those who plan to hold their bonds to maturity aren’t really affected by falling rates, with the exception of reinvestment risk.

One way issuers may take advantage of falling rates, is by calling their outstanding bonds and issuing new bonds at lower rates. Once the higher interest paying bonds are called, investors looking for a fixed rate of return are faced with lower

yielding fixed income alternatives. To offset this risk, it’s important to have a diverse portfolio of fixed income investments with a variety of maturities and call features to withstand fluctuations in rates.

Stock Investors: Falling interest rates tend to have a positive impact on the stock market, especially stocks of growth companies. Companies that tend to borrow money to finance expansions tend to benefit from declining rates. Paying lower rates of interest decreases the cost of the debt, which may positively affect a company’s bottom line. The stock prices of those companies may rise as a result, driving the market in such a way that prices of other stocks may follow suit.

WHEN INTEREST RATES RISE When the Federal Reserve decides to raise interest rates, its goal is usually to slow down an overheating economy. Changes in interest rates tend to affect the economy slowly – it can take as long as 12 to 18 months for the effects of the change to permeate the entire economy. Slow-

Snowman and Bella Swan are ARF’s adoption Stars

ly, as the cost of borrowing increases, banks lend less money and businesses put growth and expansion on hold. Consumers may begin to cut back on spending as the expense of financing a purchase increases. This reverses the effects that lower interest rates had on the economy and, again, investors are affected differently.

Bond investors: In a rising interest rate scenario, the demand for bonds with lower interest rates declines. New bond issues are offered at higher, more appealing rates, driving the price of existing bonds lower.

Stock investors: Rising interest rates can have a positive or negative impact on the stock market. In some cases, rising rates can send jitters through the market, resulting in falling stock prices. In other cases, the stock market may respond favorably.

In addition, rising interest rates may affect certain industry groups more than others. For instance, growth companies often find it necessary to borrow money in order to expand.

Rising interest rates increase the cost of their debt, which in turn decreases profit. As a result, the prices of their stocks may fall.

If you’re interested in learning more about what changing interest rates mean for you, a Financial Advisor can help you better understand the effects interest rates may have on your portfolio.

Chris Held is a financial adviser with Wells Fargo Advisors. Send your questions or comments to chris.j.held@wellsfargo.com All Investments in securities and insurance products are not FDIC insured, are not bank-guaranteed and may lose value. Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

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Why do you read the Pioneer?

“Hi Tamara: We want to let you know how much we enjoy the Clayton Pioneer. It really makes us feel connected to the community. When we take the mail out of our mailbox and the Clayton Pioneer is there, it's the first thing we read. Thanks for a great publication.”

SINCERELY, BARBARA AND RON JACOBS

BELLA SWAN

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Bella Swan is a beautiful tortoiseshell kitty who loves to be close to her family. She is very affectionate and will “talk” to you if you engage her in conversation.

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: Noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 3 to 7 p.m.

Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt.

ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog 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.

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Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 23, 2011

Clayton Community Calendar

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PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JAN. 4 FOR THE JAN. 13 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

IN CLAYTON

6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440 Entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Dec. 23, 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gerald & the Aces Dec. 30, 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Crossman Country Karaoke Wed. nights Open Mic Thur. nights, 8 to 11 p.m. www.claytonclubsaloon.com

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Dec. 31 Clayton Counts Down

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Games, fun and food in an alcohol-free environment. 5 – 8 p.m.

Clayton Community Gym, 700 Gym Ct. Free admission. Laci Jackson 673-7304.

Jan. 5 Blood Drive

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Molly’s “Pay It Forward” blood drive with the Red Cross. 1:30 – 7:30 p.m. Diablo View Middle School Multi Use Room, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. redcrossblood.org or (800) 733-2767.

EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Thru Dec. 24 “A Christmas Carol” A.C.T. performs this sparkling, music-infused celebration of goodwill.

American Conservatory Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. $15$105. act-sf.org or (415) 749-2228.

No matter what it is

Thru Dec. 30 “The Winter Wonderettes”

Marketing & Public Relations,

(925) 672-8717 in Clayton, CA Gary Carr, Principal, carrpool@pacbell.net

www.RisingMoonArts.com

Thru Jan. 15 Nunset Boulevard The Nuns are back at Willows Theatre in the “Nunsense Hollywood Bowl Show.” 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $17-$32. willowstheatre.org, 798-1300.

Jan. 22 The Romance of the Cello Joshua Roman plays Elgar’s Cello Concerto. 4 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $39-69. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

CHURCHES AND RELIGION Baha’i, interaction, fellowship and discussion. Speaker: Dennis Pettyjohn. 7:30 p.m. Free. For directions, call 672-6686.

AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. 673-0659 or claytonlibrary.org.

A volunteer will read stories for children of all ages. 1-2 p.m.

Jan. 12 Get Acquainted with Your New Gadget

Safeguard your family, income and savings from the potential high cost of Ken Snyder, CLTC long term care.

Ask me how...

2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission

Jan. 18 Emergency Preparedness Training 7 – 9 p.m. Community Room.

Learn what to have on hand when disaster strikes. Taught by Clayton Community Emergency Response Team. claytoncert.org

GOVERNMENT 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council

OF

P IPIAN

of H

Spec oliday ials

Unique cuisine

10% off catering

Catering

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for December Clayton residents & businesses only.

(Does not apply with any other discounts or coupons)

Free appetizer Adelio and Ivalina

(925) 914-0395

2118 Mt. Diablo St., Concord Tue-Fri:

Lunch 11-2 Dinner starts at 4:30 Sat & Sun: Dinner only, starts at 4:30

Meets 7-8:30 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Library Story Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. All artforms and both emerging and experienced artists welcome. Contact Arlene at 673-9777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com. creeksideartists.org.

Diablo Valley Democratic Club

East Bay Prospectors Meets 6:30 p.m. first Thursday of the month, Oasis Christian Fellowship, 2551 Pleasant Hill Road, Pleasant Hill. Clayton resident Douglas “Pucky” Junghans is the founder. 672-1863, eastbaygpaa.webs.com.

Knights of Columbus Meets 7:30 p.m. first Tuesday, St. Bonaventure Church, Ministry Center, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Art 672-1850, shanone@comcast.net or Chuck 849-5466, cecooper3@comcast.net.

Meeting dates vary. 331-0674, concordclaytonmomsclub@hotmail.com or concordclaytonmomsclub.webs.com.

Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Meets 7 a.m. Thursdays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Includes breakfast and a speaker. 566-8166, claytonvalleyrotary.org.

with this ad (Exp. Dec 31. 2011) Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more promotions

For reservations online visit us at

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Meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. All ages and skill levels welcome. $3. Call Mike at 639-1987 or scrabbleassoc.com.

Sons In Retirement (SIRs) Branch 19 meets 11:15 a.m. first Thursday of the month, Crown Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Dr., Concord. 429-3777.

Branch 146 meets 11 a.m.-1:15 p.m. second Thursday of the month. Boundary Oaks, 3800 Valley Vista Road, Walnut Creek. Jan. 12 speaker: Deborah Braver. Reservations required: (510) 549-2221 or sir146.com.

Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista Meets 12 p.m. second, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month, September-June, Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Contact Nicole at 692-2224.

Breakfast 8-11 a.m. second and fourth Sundays, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. $4, $2 children under 12.

Word Weavers Toastmasters

7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

F INE D INING

Contra Costa Mineral and Gem Society Meets 7:30 p.m. second Monday of the month, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. 289-0454, ccmgs.org.

Veterans of Foreign Wars

7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

Lots T HE H OUSE

Contra Costa Genealogical Society

Scrabble Club

Wednesdays Book Buddies

Drop in if you need a little help with your electronic book reader, smart phone, tablet or other gadget. 3 – 5 p.m. Story Room.

Father and Daughter Owned & Operated

Meets 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck’s, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. Contact Mike at 639-1987 or ccchess.com.

MOMS Club of Concord/Clayton

Jan. 6

www.Genworth.com/KennethSnyder

Clutch Busters Square Dance Club Meets 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Willow Pass Community Center Hall, 2748 East Olivera Road, Concord. Contact Karen at 686-3774.

Meets 7-9 p.m. third Wednesday of the month, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road., Walnut Creek. 946-0469, dvdems.org.

This bittersweet comedy combines poignancy and laughter as it traces an unlikely romance. Diablo Actors’ Ensemble, 1345 Locust St., Walnut Creek. $15-$25. diabloactors.com.

(925) 270-3617

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. second Tuesday of the month except July and August, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord.

672-1163.

Creekside Artists Guild

Jan. 20, 21 Ballet Winter Program

Jan. 20 thru Feb. 5 “Frankie and Johnnie in the Clair de Lune”

Long Term Care Insurance Agent CA License #0H12142

Clayton Valley Garden Club Meets 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, February through November. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Contact Nancy at 673-3522 or claytonvalleygardenclub.org.

Meets 7 p.m. second Thursday of the month, LDS Church, 3700 Concord Blvd., Concord. cccgs.ca@gmail.com.

Company C Contemporary Ballet’s 10th Anniversary season opener bursts with versatility, wit and romance. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $23-$45. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469.

HELPING TO PREPARE AND PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE WITH PRODUCTS DESIGNED TO FIT YOUR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS

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.

Contra Costa Chess Club

Come see the Wonderettes as they entertain at the 1968 Holiday Party for Harper’s Hardware. Full of humor and classic melodies for the whole family. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $25$30. willowstheatre.org. 798-1300.

Rising Moon

The group meets 6:45 p.m. second Tuesday of the month, Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Road, Concord.

Meets 7-8:15 p.m. Mondays, 4756 Clayton Road, Concord. Visitors welcome. Contact Marion at 686-1818 or marion48@live.com.

Molly, from page 1 “You never know when the need will be close to home,” Molly says. The blood has to be available in advance of the need.

No one knows that better than Molly and her mother, Monica Fraga. Fraga accidentally backed over Molly in the family vehicle when she was just a toddler. Molly lost more than 50 per cent of her blood. Blood and platelet donations saved her life.

According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds,

Why

someone in the United States needs blood, and that blood cannot be manufactured. This is a sobering fact, considering advances in modern medicine.

In addition to collecting blood at the January drive, testing will be done for those interested in giving a platelet donation, says Justin Mueller, director of Donor Resources Development at the Red Cross.

The Red Cross will be prepared for 200 donors, says Mueller. Last year’s drive collect-

advertise in the Pioneer?

“Working with the Clayton Pioneer has been a wonderful experience. The paper has become a valuable venue to initiate and generate local business. The overwhelming readership of our Clayton paper makes advertising in its pages a necessity.”

-Nicole Hackett at R&M Pool, Patio, Gift and Garden Call the Pioneer to help your business grow: 672-0500

ed 115 units of blood and 80 the year prior, both beating the Bay Area average collection of 40 units of blood.

Donors can prepare by having plenty of iron in their diet, being hydrated and bringing their ID. Molly’s motivation to help out the drive is to “give back.”

In fact, she says her passion is the American Red Cross. When Jeff Meyer, CEO of the Northern California Blood Region of the Red Cross, recently asked her what she wants to do with her life, she said, “To be the president of the Red Cross.”

Meyer says, “I’m hoping to some day report to her.”

To donate, you must be 17 and meet weight/health requirements. The drive will run from 1:30-7:30 p.m. at the Diablo View Middle School Multiuse Room, 300 Diablo View Lane. Call 1-800-733-2767 or visit www.redcross.org for more information. For appointments, use the sponsor code MOLLY.

December 23, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 15 Photos by Steve Pierce

Christmas Never Tasted So Good!

BY LINDA WYNER

Santa made his anticipated appearance at the 10th Annual Clayton Pioneer Christmas Cookie Contest and Judging Party at the Clayton Library last week.

While local trio Vintage provided live music, six of Santa’s distinguished tasting elves judged nearly 20 entries from the junior, teen and master baker categories, munching in time to “Jingle Bells” and “Rudolph.”

Little bakers-in-training turned naked sugar cookies into jeweled crowns and snow-capped mountain peaks with white frosting and colored sprinkles.

This year, perhaps more so than in the past, there were lots of unique cookies and many bakers said they had adapted a published recipe. It was wonderful to find folks willing to place their own signature on their baking—adding new flavors or decorating the cookies in special ways to truly make them their own. It’s a wonderful way to develop heirloom recipes to be passed down generation to generation.

As good as all the cookies were, there had to be winners because it was, after all, a contest. The elves labored hard to find teeny tiny differences that placed some cookies apart from the others. The judging results and recipes are below. We think you’ll find them as tasty as Santa did.

Merry Christmas!

Master Baker Division First Place: Tamara Aszklar Raspberry Shortbread Yum Yums

1 c sugar 1 c butter 1 c shortening 2 tsp baking powder 4 ½ c flour, sifted 2 eggs, well beaten 1 tsp vanilla extract Raspberry jam (homemade is best) Pinch of salt

Reduce mixer speed to low and add flour mixture. Beat until combined.

Drain raisins and discard soaking liquid. Add raisins and the white chocolate to the dough. Mix to combine.

Whisk together the sanding sugar with the remaining ½ tsp cinnamon.

Scoop 2 Tbsp dough and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Shape into a ball.

Roll the ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture again to coat completely.

Transfer dough balls to the prepared cookie sheets, spacing about 2” apart.

Bake until just set and starting to crack, 18 to 20 minutes.

Third Place: Dory Willer Grandma Dory’s Snickerdoodle Peanut Butter Delight Cookies ½ c chopped dry roasted peanuts ½ c granulated white sugar 1 ½ Tbsp cinnamon ½ c creamy peanut butter ½ c powdered sugar 1 roll Pillsbury refrigerated peanut butter cookie dough Preheat oven to 375 °F. Mix chopped peanuts, granulated sugar and 1 Tbsp cinnamon in a small bowl.

In another bowl, mix powdered sugar and ½ Tbsp cinnamon into the peanut butter. Shape mixture into 24 small balls. Place on wax paper and refrigerate until ready to use.

Cut the roll of cookie dough into 12 slices and cut each slice in half. Roll each half slice between the palms of your hands to make 24 balls.

Using the heel of your hand, flatten a cookie dough ball, place a peanut butter ball in the center and shape the cookie dough around the peanut butter ball. Roll between the palms of your hands to create a ball that completely covers the peanut butter ball and is smooth on all sides.

Roll the combined ball into the sugar/cinnamon/chopped peanut mixture, slightly pressing sugar and chopped peanuts into it.

Place on an ungreased cookie sheet.

With the bottom of a heavy glass, tamp down on the cookie ball twice to slightly flatten. With a teaspoon, spread a little of the sugar/cinnamon/chopped peanut mixture on top, slightly pressing the topping into the cookie.

Bake 9 minutes or until golden. Cool for one minute then remove to wire rack to cool.

Junior Baker (ages 6-12)

First Place: Molly DeSeelhorst Martha Stewart’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Cream butter, shortening and sugar until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla. Add sifted flour, salt and baking powder.

Refrigerate dough for ½ hour before rolling and cutting.

Preheat oven to 350 °F. Roll out dough on a floured board to desired thickness. Cut out with a cookie cutter. On half of the cookies, cut a smaller middle hole with a smaller cookie cutter. Bake until golden brown, about 1015 minutes.

When cool, spread jam on the solid cookies and top with a cutout cookie. Drizzle with icing (1 ½ tsp butter, 1 c sifted confectioner’s sugar, 2 to 4 Tbsp milk and ½ tsp vanilla extract), then sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar.

Second Place: Peggy Hooper Chewy Chocolate Raisin Cookies Makes about 2 dozen 1 c golden raisins, coarsely chopped ½ c brandy 1 ½ c all-purpose flour 3 Tbsp Dutch-process cocoa powder 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon ¾ tsp baking soda ½ tsp coarse salt 1 stick unsalted butter, softened ½ c packed light-brown sugar ½ c honey 6 oz white chocolate chips or slab cut into ½” pieces ½ c fine sanding or granulated sugar Bring raisins and brandy to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from the heat and let stand for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, cocoa, 1 tsp cinnamon, the baking soda and salt.

Preheat the oven to 325 °F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Beat the butter and brown sugar with a mixture on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add honey and beat until creamy.

Second Place: Alexis Wakefield Epic Caramel Filled Cookies 2 ½ c flour ¾ c unsweetened cocoa 1 tsp baking soda 1 c sugar 1 c brown sugar 1 c butter, softened 2 tsp vanilla 2 eggs 1 c chopped pecans, divided 48 Rolo caramels, unwrapped 1 Tbsp sugar Preheat oven to 375 °F. In a small bowl, combine the flour, cocoa and baking soda.

In a large bowl, beat the brown sugar, butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and eggs and beat well. Add the flour mixture and blend well. Stir in ½ c pecans.

For each cookie, use floured hands to shape about 1 Tbsp dough around one caramel candy, covering it completely.

In a small bowl, combine the remaining ½ c pecans and 1 Tbsp sugar. Please one side of each cookie ball into the pecan mixture.

Place each cookie nut-side-up 2” apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 7-10 minutes or until set and slightly cracked. Cool 2 minutes then remove from the baking sheet to a cooling rack.

Third Place: Jenny Linderman Peppermint Christmas Cookies 2 c confectioner’s sugar 2 Tbsp light corn syrup 1 ½ Tbsp softened butter 2 tsp milk 1 tsp peppermint extract 8 oz chopped semi-sweet chocolate 2 tsp shortening Mix together all ingredients except chocolate and shortening until smooth. Chill 30 minutes.

Dust mixture with confectioner’s sugar and roll out to ¼” thick.

Cut into shapes and freeze until hard.

Melt chocolate and shortening in the microwave in 20 second increments. Let cool to room temperature.

Dip cookies into the melted chocolate and decorate as desired.

Chill until set.

Teen Baker

(ages 13-19) Although there was only one entry in the Teen Baker division, this mouth watering goodie garnered three Perfect Tens.

First Place: Maddie Simbirdi Peppermint Kisses Makes about 4 dozen 1 c blanched slivered almonds 3 Tbsp + ½ c (1 stick) unsalted butter 1 ¾ c all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking soda ¼ tsp salt 1 ¼ c sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 bag (1 lb) candy cane-flavored Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped Preheat oven to 375 °F.

1 ½ c crunchy peanut butter 1 c packed light-sugar brown ½ c (1 stick) softened unsalted butter 1 large egg 1 ½ c all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1 c Reese’s peanut butter cups cut into small pieces Sanding sugar (a little coarser version of regular sugar) Preheat oven to 350 °F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat peanut butter, sugar and butter until smooth. Beat in the egg. Gradually add flour mixture, mixing to combine. Fold in Reese’s peanut butter cup pieces.

Pinch off dough by the tablespoonful. Roll or scoop into balls.

Place 2” apart on the prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to make a criss-cross pattern and flatten to a ½” thickness. Sprinkle with sanding sugar.

Bake cookies, rotating half-way through, until lightly golden, 1822 minutes. Cool cookies on a wire rack

In a mini-chopper or food processor, pulse almonds until finely ground. Add 3 Tbsp of the butter. Pulse until combined and fairly smooth.

In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt. In a large bowl, beat the almond mixture and remaining ½ c butter with an electric mixer. Add 1 cup of the sugar and beat until smooth. Add egg and vanilla and mix well. On low, beat in the flour mixture.

Form a heaping teaspoon of dough into a ball. Roll the ball in the remaining ¼ c sugar and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough and sugar.

Bake cookies for 12 minutes. Remove from oven; press a candy Kiss into the center of each cookie. Cool 2 minutes on pans, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 23, 2011

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Our massage therapy and spa body treatments are of the highest quality and are customized to your personal health and beauty needs. We specialize in professional skin care providing facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, microdermabrasion, cellulite treatments, airbrush tanning and body wraps. Bella Mia is in the Clayton Station next to Travel to Go. 680-7792.

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The Royal Rooster “Loyal local shoppers are so important to our business,” says owner Sara Skow. .

Every year, this delightful little gift and home decor shop on Diablo Street in quaint downtown Clayton offers a closeby alternative to the crowded malls.

Themed trees throughout the store make a stunning display and there is a wide variety of new merchandise for the holiday season.

The Royal Rooster carries a large selection of jewelry, fragrances, handbags, Vera Bradley, seasonal decor, candles, furniture, greeting cards and gourmet food with complimentary gift basket design and gift wrap.

Clayton Furniture There’s no tlace like home for the holidays, and Clayton Furniture has everything to make that home comfy, cozy and inviting.

One of the oldest furniture businesses in Contra Costa, the store has been continuously family owned and operated since 1988. Clayton Furniture’s success is built on service, integrity and value.

Visit their spacious showroom with displays presenting traditional, everyday furniture balanced with unique imports and domestic treasures. For those who have more in mind than what is on display, Clayton Furniture offers catalog ordering with short one to two week deliveries.

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The UPS Store Do you have packages that need to be mailed? Pressed for time? Stop by The UPS Store in the Vineyard Shopping Center and let owner Tricia Tamura and her knowledgeable staff help you get your gifts delivered safely and on time. Working seamlessly with the US Postal service, they can offer you options on how to ship your gifts.

The UPS Store can save you the hassle of long lines and multiple stops. Besides packing and shipping, they can assist you with copies, FAXing, Notary Services, Passport photos, Mailboxes and Document Services & Binding.

Stop by or call and let The UPS Store help you make your holiday season more enjoyable. Ample parking available.

Offers good through 12/31/2011 with this coupon

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Airport service to Oakland, San Jose, SFO daily.

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Divine Elements This year, give the perfect holiday de-stressor to yourself or someone you love.

Divine Elements is the ultimate destination for relaxation and therapeutic massage. Therapists are expertly trained in several massage modalities, including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Prenatal, Reflexology and Hot Stone Massage, as well as many other spa treatments. Massage can help eliminate daily stresses, leaving one feeling rejuvenated and balanced. Take the first step towards the best in relaxation and pampering at Divine Elements. Call and book an appointment today at (925) 3499490.

Ghost Golf Remember miniature golf in Concord? Well its back and it’s a totally unique and one-of-a-kind INDOOR course called Ghost Golf.

Created by Clayton residents Daryn & Janice Coleman, Ghost Golf is mini golf in a spooky old graveyard where you’ll experience a “show” at each of the nine spooktacular holes. Ever wanted to sit in a coffin? Have your exclusive, private party here and you will be eating pizza at our Sarcophagus Table while sitting on Coffin Couches that are made from real coffins! Ghost Golf is scary fun for the whole family.

1913 Salvio St., (925) 521-1913. Open year round.

A & H Limousine Service has been owned and operated by Clayton resident, Sanjay Behal since 2005. A & H offers 24-hour service to all Bay Area airports at no extra charge.

Limos, party buses, Hummer Limos, sedans and mini-vans are available. Experienced drivers will take you to on wine tours, to proms, birthday parties or a night out in San Francisco. Get to holiday parties, concerts, weddings or any special event in style. Seniors can take a 10 percent discount for any roundtrip booking. Please call (925) 200-2824 or email AH4LIMO@gmail.com Postal Annex It’s time to wrap and mail your Christmas packages to those far-off loved ones. Turn this annual chore into pure pleasure at the Postal Annex counter in the Clayton Station.

They will package your treasures for safe delivery while you browse the assorted gift items for stocking stuffers.

And while you are celebrating, sadly the identity thieves are plotting. Rent a mailbox to keep your mail and personal information safe and out of harm’s way. Open a mailbox now that any mail carrier can deliver to and receive three months free on a one-year rental with this ad. Postal Annex also offers services including notary, shredding, copying, passport photo and key cutting. Visit today at 5433 Clayton Rd K, in the Clayton Station Shopping Center or call 673-5246.

December 23, 2011

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 17

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Service’s website. There is not enough mail to support six days of delivery. Saturday was chosen for the cut because it has the lowest volume and one-third of businesses are closed.

Under the proposal, post offices would remain open, their post office boxes serviced and express mail would still be delivered seven days a week.

If a processing center is closed, first class mail would be slowed by one day.

Clayton resident and office administrator for State Farm Insurance Hildy Van Wyck said she is a big user of the post office, for personal and business mail.

“There’s still nothing like getting a real card in your hand,” she said after purchasing 240 stamps to send Christmas cards.

Although the insurance business has many regulations requiring sending paper documents to customers, Van Wyck said Saturday delivery is desirable, but not essential, if it keeps the U.S. Postal Service afloat.

“I like that compromise,” she said.

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your experience, there is a full bar and wine list with over 70 wines by the bottle.

Moresi’s Chophouse brings people together to celebrate, to socialize and enjoy the full dining experience. 6115 Main Street, downtown. (925) 672-1333.

Nothing speaks “love” quite as sweetly as that special bond between horse and rider. Earthquake Arabians prides itself on promoting and strengthening the Arabian horse influence on today’s youth and adult rider. At the same, Earthquake Arabians helps the rider build confidence, self-esteem, pride and the understanding of the responsibilities involved with horses whether it is the rider’s first time in the saddle or they dream of competing at the National level.

The Earthquake Arabians staff is dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals. Individual instruction gives each rider an opportunity to advance at their own pace and create individual goals for successful riding.

Earthquake Arabians also offers fun-filled “Horsin’ Around” camps and birthday parties. Their lessons, camps and parties make memories that last a lifetime. www.earthquakearabians.com

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Post Office, from page 1 postal spokesperson, Bay Valley District.

The Postal Service is funded entirely by revenue from sales of products and services, not taxpayer funds. It has been implementing major cost-cutting measures since 2006 and is looking at more than just eliminating Saturday service.

Also on the table is the proposed closure and consolidation of “underused” post offices and mail processing facilities. In a statement on Dec. 13, the Postal Service agreed to delay any consolidations or closures until May 1, 2012.

“The Postal Service literally will not survive unless comprehensive, legislative and administrative reforms are undertaken,” Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine told ABC News at a November news conference. Collins was a part of a bipartisan group of Senators that proposed a plan to save the Postal Service. (See sidebar.)

But closure of a small city’s only post office, as in Clayton, raises other questions and would require evaluation of its impact on the community and its employees, Ruiz said.

“We cannot close (a postal facility) purely for economic reasons,” he said.

Clayton postmaster Johnnie Johnson promises it is business as usual until any decisions are made.

Clayton is not on the current list of locations being studied for closure.

Johnson is confident in the location’s solvency even though Clayton’s operating budget for October, the final month of the latest fiscal year, showed a loss.

“I don’t foresee this post office closing,” Johnson said. Our revenue is…greater than $1.5 million per year.”

In a letter to customers, Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe blamed an inflexible and outdated business model for the Postal Service’s steep financial losses, while the executive summary of the proposed changes cited online activity previously handled by mail as the reason for a drop in the volume of mail from 213 billion pieces in 2007 to 177 billion in 2009.

Cancelling Saturday delivery would save approximately $3 billion per year, according to the Postal

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Page 18

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 23, 2011

Book Review Est.1972

Smith & Bernal

Unwrap a clever murder mystery this holiday

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May the suggestion to read L. C. Tyler’s “The Herring in The Library” be the jolliest gift you receive this holiday. Tired of trimming the tree, hanging the garlands, or watching “It’s a Wonderful Life” for the umpteenth time? Run, don’t walk, to your favorite bookstore, library or online store, and buy, borrow or download “The Herring in The Library.”

If you’re not already a fan of L. C. Tyler, here’s a bit of background: He’s a Brit, he’s a funny man, and he writes very comic mysteries. That’s enough for now and enough for me after reading #3 in his Elsie and Ethelred series to recommend it. All four, and soon five, books in this series have the word herring in their titles. Yes, as in “red herring.” Tyler is funny and blessedly not terribly subtle, which only adds to the pleasure.

Ethelred is a crime writer and Elsie is his agent. They go back a long way. Ethelred has been invited to dine with an old college chum, now part of the landed and titled aristocracy.

Elsie accompanies Ethelred to the manor house, which is necessarily large, with many rooms.

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when it comes to keeping him in print, but she is his nemesis when sorting through the clues.

In addition to writing a game inside his mystery, Tyler lets the reader see the first chapters of Ehthelred’s next Master Thomas mystery, which takes place in Chaucerean times and is set apart in italics to lessen any confusion on the part of the reader. Deadlines and confusion abound in this smart and totally fun mystery.

Sunny Solomon heads up the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to "talk books."

“WINTER WONDERETTES” starring Diahanna Davidson, Laurie Hedstrom, Pam Khoury and Lisa Drummond, plays through Dec. 30 at the Campbell Theatre in downtown Martinez.

directed by Lois Grandi, “Wonderettes” plays Thurs-Sun. through Dec. 30 at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St.,

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For tickets, call (925) 7981300, or purchase online at willowstheatre.org.

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If you can squeeze just one more thing onto your holiday calendar this year, make time to see the “Winter Wonderettes” at the Willow Cabaret in Martinez.

The casual intimate venue is the perfect setting for this slightly corny little musical that celebrates the girl groups of the 50s and 60s with close harmonies and catchy arrangements of some new and some old favorite Christmas songs.

Four zany women, all employees of Harpers Hardware Store, are in charge of the annual Harper’s Hardware Holliday Happening Christmas party where traditionally, their employer dons a Santa suit to hand out the annual bonuses.

But, this year, Santa is a ‘noshow’ and things take an unexpected turn, leaving the four women on their own to improvise their way to a happy ending.

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the lord of the manor dies and the mystery ensues: which of the invited guests may have caused his death (even if it appears at first to be suicide)?

Might it have been the moneygrubbing wife, the cook or the gardener? What carries the narrative with humor and intelligence is the sleuthing on the part of Elsie and Ethelred. Tyler makes it easy for the reader to differentiate between the two, not just through their voices, but visually, with Ethelred’s take on the matter told in Times New Roman font and Elsie’s in what looks to be Cambria. Elsie may be Ethelred’s comrade in arms

Wander in to Harper’s Hardware and party with the ‘Wonderettes’

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about now you may feel like you are in familiar territory. No, this isn’t a Clue mystery book, but Tyler does have a bit of fun suggesting a game in a book.

(As a historical footnote, the game we know as Clue is called Cluedo in England, and before you wonder why they just didn’t use the word Clue, remember that the game was invented by a Brit to distract himself and his wife while waiting for the allclear siren during the Blitz.

Cluedo, a portmanteau of “clue” and “Ludo,” – Latin for “I play,” – is the original name.

Clue is just the colonial upstart.)

Between dinner and dessert,

JUDITH MARSHALL

FASHION OVER 50 Hopefully, you’re doing something for New Year’s Eve. I personally never miss the opportunity to dress up at this festive time of the year. The question is what to wear.

If you’re lucky, there’s no need to look beyond your closet for that little black dress.

With a few well-chosen accessories (a sparkly shoe and a colorful

clutch) you’ll look both classic and current. This year, it’s all about glamour. If you’re really daring, a fully sequined cocktail dress is a popular choice.

But if your dress is a statement, keep your accessories simple – maybe an oversized cocktail ring and diamond (or fake diamond) earrings.

If you prefer separates, nothing looks smarter than a pair of black crepe or satin pants coupled with a red smoking jacket. You can amp up this look with embellished flats or glittery platforms.

Once you’ve chosen your outfit, pay attention to your make-up. Stay away from dark lipstick. Your best lipstick bet is a shade closest to your natural lip color. And never outline your mouth with a dark liner.

A dab of lip gloss will make you look years younger.

Instead of playing up your lips, concentrate on your eyes as your feature attraction.

Choose an eye shadow

that will make your eyes pop.

For brown or hazel eyes, golds and lavenders are gorgeous.

Blue eyes look great with bluegray and lighter browns. Try an eye pencil instead of liquid liner. Soften the line with a QTip or your finger. And don’t line the inside of your eye. It will make your eye appear smaller. Be careful of shimmer. It can illuminate every line, wrinkle and pore. A little on the cheeks is fine. The main rule to remember is the heavier your make-up, the older you look.

When it comes to a holiday hairstyle, think soft. If you like an updo, be careful with the tendrils. They went out of style a decade ago. Please, no severe buns. Your hair should move. Unfussy is always good, but messy is never flattering.

Remember, the way we look gives us confidence. So take your time to look fabulous and go out and rock the world.

Wishing you a happy and healthy 2012!

Judith Marshall is the author of “Husbands May Come and Go but Friends are Forever,” available at the Royal Rooster in Clayton. Send comments to Judith.Marshall@att.net.