2012_Clayton_Pioneer_1026 by Pioneer Publishers

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

October 26, 2012

925.672.0500

Band on the Run: CVCHS musicians play through town in ‘March-A-Thon’ HOWARD GELLER

MAYOR’S CORNER

Community keeps ‘doing the right thing’ Clayton has had more than its share of news media coverage this pre-election season. One would think with a presidential election and the numerous state and local issues facing us, our small town would be abuzz with those pending decisions. With the official written resignation of Clayton Councilman Joe Medrano at the last City Council meeting, hopefully our community can now focus on the issues concerning our city, state and presidential elections. IN OTHER NEWS Doing Right: For the past four years, the city council has

See Mayor, page 12 Photo by band parent Donna Price

Medrano guilty, faces four years in prison TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

City Councilman Joseph Medrano’s 20-month descent from businessman, vice-mayor and philanthropist to convicted felon headed for prison ended on Oct. 11 when a San Mateo County jury found him guilty of embezzling $160,000 from a former client.

IT WAS RIVER CITY ALL OVER AGAIN LAST WEEK WHEN THE CVCHS MARCHING BAND TOOK TO THE STREETS OF CLAYTON to raise money for the school’s music program. The band marched through the neighborhoods, stopping to fulfill requests, finally parading through Ed’s Mudville Grill before finishing up at The Grove to get some well deserved kudos from the mayor. Pictured from left: Jared Suasin, Madison Curtis, Sohnjay Reeve, Erik Ortiz and Max Susanto. VICKI ANDERSON Special to the Pioneer

It wasn’t quite 76 trombones, but it sure sounded like it when the Clayton Valley Charter High School marching band took to the streets of Clayton in its first March-A-Thon. CVHS Music Director Joseph Scott, 85 student musicians and 15 chaperones marched off from Endeavor Hall on the morning of Saturday, Oct. 13,

After eight days of testimony, the jury took just a little over two hours to find him guilty of one count of embezzlement with the enhancement of “excessive taking.” He faces four years in state prison. Councilman Dave Shuey, who testified as a character witness for Medrano, said he was saddened by the verdict but

See Medrano, page 6

playing as they went. Residents, who had received word of the March-A-Thon via door hangers earlier in the week, were invited to request a song played just for them in a “Lawn Concert.” The idea for the March-AThon came from Scott and the Music Boosters Board last June. Scott wanted a fundraiser that involved the students and reached out to Clayton, wanting to share with the community the

strong talent that is thriving in the school’s music program. He said he also wanted to encourage incoming students to continue with music as they enter high school. “Plus, our musicians benefit from each and every opportunity to play to a live audience,” he said. Since more than 100 people strolling through the streets of Clayton – most with large instruments in their hands – could

pose a bit of a safety issue, members of the Clayton Police Department stepped in to help direct traffic and enjoy a little music at the same time. Parent volunteers also helped with street crossings, held up signs asking for donations and directed traffic. One parent, Nia Jusuf, prepared lunch for everyone, including the police officers.

See Band, page 4

Ghost Walk scares up haunts from the past PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer

JOSEPH MEDRANO

playing through the Farmers Market, serenading around the library and CVS Pharmacy, and performing to an upbeat crowd at Diamond Terrace, where enthusiastic residents danced on the sidewalks. Saxophones and trumpets, piccolos and sousaphones, brass and woodwinds – all helped along by an accomplished drum line – then marched into Easley Estates and made their way through the neighborhoods,

Darkness falls. Squeals of delight from trick-or-treaters that can be mistaken for far off screams of terror echo through the streets. Leaves rustle in the breeze. It is difficult not to look over one’s shoulder to make sure no one is following. It’s the perfect setting for the 32nd annual Ghost Walk in Clayton. Led by Richard Taylor, setting the mood for the macabre in his undertaker’s top hat and cape, curious residents and visitors walk through Clayton as Taylor tells of deadly accidents and fights and the spirits that still linger. This includes the story of Granny Norton’s deadly horse and buggy accident coming

down the hill from Nortonville (now part of Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve) into Clayton and Taylor’s favorite – the Ghost of the Growler. Warning: The ghosts of these tragedies have been known to put in an appearance on Halloween. Taylor’s first walk was actually a field trip for his class at Clayton Community School, called “Clayton Past and Present.” His walk fell on Halloween and he had enough scary stories to place him in demand the next year. And the next. And the next. Crowds grew into the hundreds. Many people return each year to hear the lore and any new stories Richard scares up during the year. “There are always stories popping up,” Taylor says.

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Car Tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Community Calendar . . . . . .14

Each walker breathes a sigh of relief as they collect their “I Survived the Ghost Walk” certificates at the end of the chilling tour.

When not tracking down local ghosts and goblins, Taylor writes and illustrates books. He is currently working on “River-

Mike Dunn photo

RICHARD TAYLOR WILL LEAD HIS 32ND ANNUAL Ghost Walk through Clayton on Halloween Night.

Design and Décor . . . . . . . . .9 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5 DVMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . .7 Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . . .9 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Hikers Haven . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Holiday Guide . . . . . . . . . .16 Letter to the Editor . . . . . . . .13 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .17

town Memories,” a collection of memories from his days at Antioch High School. He previously penned “Ghosts and Other Celebrities of Clayton.” Taylor is passionate about hosting the walk, commenting that there is interest in the walk and good support from the city and the police department. “I’ll do it until I can’t walk anymore; then, I’ll do it from a wheelchair.” Taylor invites all to join him for the Ghost Walk and frightening fun. He assures guests that “we’re not alone in Clayton on Halloween night.” Gather for the Ghost Walk at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 31 at Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Walk starts at 8 p.m. Bring a flashlight. Costumes are optional.

Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sports Shorts . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 26, 2012

Around Town City lauds Clayton kids for “Responsibility”

Spirits high for Clayton Bikes anniversary Bikes and kids were flying high in the Clayton Bikes parking lot at the Clayton Station last Sunday when the store celebrated its 30th anniversary with a BBQ. At least 200 kids of all ages and sizes were jumping the bike ramp, grabbing some air, sliding on the rail and chowing down on hot dogs and soda. Watching the kids on their bikes was John Kramer, one of the store’s owners. “When you’re a teenager, 10, 12 or 13 years old, it’s easy to sit around and not do too much,” Kramer said. “You got high definition

Mike Dunn

ALLYN MOISE GRABS SOME AIR during the Clayton Bikes anniversary celebration at their Clayton Station store last week.

TV and you got video games. What we do here is try to get

L SPECIA

10% Off ton for Clay only s t residen

these kids on their bikes and stay active. It really helps with combating childhood obesity.” Kramer said. “These kids are very dedicated to their bikes and it’s really impressive. Hopefully they can take that dedication into adulthood,” he added.

Five Clayton students received kudos from the city of Clayton for showing extraordinary responsibility as part of the community-wide Do The Right Thing program. Nominated by their teachers or principals, the students were each presented a Certificate of Recognition by Mayor Howard Geller. From Mt. Diablo Elementary, first-graders Damion Clark and Stephanie Vojtenyi were introduced by teacher Kerry Hill. “There is a lot of responsibility given to our first-graders,” said Mrs. Hill. “The students are required to keep homework records, to follow instructions and keep their desks clean among other things.” Damion, she said, has the added responsibility of managing his “life-threatening” allergies. “He always knows where his epipen is, knows how to use it and has taught the other students to use it, too.”

FIVE STUDENTS WERE HONORED at the Oct. 16 City Council Meeting as part of the DTRT initiative. Back row: Bryden Connel, Lauren Valory, Tyler Llacuna, Mayor Howard Geller; Front: Damion Clark and Stephanie Vojtenyi.

Principal Patti Bannister nominated DVMS students Bryden Connel and Tyler Llacuna. “We believe in the idea of teaching students to be good citizens, to give back to the community,” Mrs. Bannister said. Clayton Valley Charter High School senior Lauren Valory was chosen for the recognition by her teacher Pat Marzel for her work with incoming freshmen as a commissioner of the school’s

Remodeling Specialist Kitchens Bathrooms Windows Mouldings Decks Siding Painting interior & exterior

50 years for Chris and Tony Romano Chris and Tony Romano marked their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 6. Their celebration began with Mass at St. Bonaventure’s where they renewed their vows and finished with a family gathering. Chris worked for the Clayton Police Department for 28 years before retiring in 2003. Tony was a criminal investigator with the IRS for 25 years before finishing his career with the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. Chris and Tony have three children and four grandchildren.

We accept credit cards. Kevin Schmidt, Clayton Resident Family Owned and Operated license 962284

925-822-5144 738 Bloching Circle, Clayton

“High marks for Kevin Schmidt and his crew at Diablo View Construction. They made our kitchen remodel a painless experience. They finished in the time allotted and did a beautiful job. We couldn't be more pleased with the results”

– Jim and Marilyn Callaghan, Clayton, CA

DiabloViewConstruction.com 158 Regency Drive Regency Woods Classic Single Story Rancher! Backing to open space. 4 bedrooms, 2.5

4370 Kearsarge Court, Concord Desirable Lime Ridge!

DTRT Link Crew. Describing Lauren as “amazing” and “service oriented,” Mrs. Marzel said “she just keeps doing bigger and bigger.” Lauren is captain of the lacrosse team, a member of the Public Service Academy and the Senior Women’s Club and is now coordinating a fundraiser for Katie-Grace Groebner who suffers from pulmonary hypertension. Do the Right Thing is a community-wide character initiative involving Mt. Diablo Elementary School, Diablo View Middle School, Clayton Valley Charter High School, the city of Clayton, the Clayton Police Department and the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA). The initiative focuses on developing a community culture that is built on good character. By focusing on six common character traits throughout the school year the community as a whole is able to rally around the same trait at the same time. These students were recognized for showing Responsibility.” The other five traits, which rotate in emphasis throughout the year, are Respect, Kindness, Self-discipline, Integrity and Courage.

GEORGE VUJNOVICH Broker Helping friends, neighbors & newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979

baths, approx. 2,032sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Walk to Mt. Diablo! COMING SOON

411 Joree Lane Stunning Unit in immaculate condition!

End of court location. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath, approx. 1,814sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Kitchen features laminate wood floors, cherry wood cabinets & newer all black appliances. Spacious family room with laminate wood floors and a brick wood burning fireplace. Separate formal living room. Large master suite. Private wooded lot offers a brick patio, deck with spa and large aggregate patio. Community tennis courts & park. $499,000

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

georgevujnovich.com

Better Homes DRE#00933393

35 Massolo Dr. #A, Pleasant Hill Quaint “Quietwood” Condo.

PE ND I N G Built in 2004. 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, approx. 1892sf, inside laundry & 2 car attached garage! Granite kitchen with Stainless Steel appliances. Family room with fireplace. Updated master bath with oversized tub. Cozy balcony has views of open space! Excellent location near, shopping & dining. $479,000

3108 Coyote Circle Immaculate “Winter” model!

P EN DI NG

Excellent commute & shopping location! Highly desirable one story, ground level unit! 2 bedrooms, 2 updated baths, approx. 973sf with inside laundry! Across from pool & club house! $150,000

Jennifer Stojanovich Broker-Associate Lifelong Concord/Clayton Resident.

(925) 567-6170 jenstojanovich@yahoo.com Ranked Top 10 Agents for Better Homes Realty

www.jenniferstojanovich.com

Don Howard at the rear of the complex in a tranquil setting. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1595sf with inside laundry and 2 car attached garage! Upgraded carpet and flooring. Living room shares a two way fireplace with family room. Separate dining area. Spacious master with views of hills. Cozy patio looks out to hills. Walk to community pool & spa! $319,000

Realtor-Associate Clayton Resident

(925) 408-3184 Donald.kent.howard@gmail.com

donhoward.ccartoday.com

(925)

672-4433

6160 Center St., Suite E, Clayton

Clayton Market Update provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS

PRICE

BED/BATH

SALE DATE

5801 Caulfield Drive ............$1,330,000 . .2623 . . . . .5/3 . . . . . .10/15/12 408 Grenache Circle............$650,000 . . . .2391 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .10/12/12 48 Tule Court .......................$450,000 . . . .1939 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . .10/8/12 34 Long Creek Circle...........$248,000 . . . .966 . . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . .10/5/12 408 Diablo Creek Pl.............$620,000 . . . .2050 . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .10/5/12 1 Long Creek Circle.............$170,000 . . . .1378 . . . . .2/2.5 . . . . . .10/3/12 1412 Greystone Lane ..........$421,000 . . . .1474 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . .10/1/12 1052 Pebble Beach Dr ........$764,000 . . . .3620 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .9/28/12 21 El Molino Drive ...............$460,000 . . . .1648 . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .9/28/12 906 Diablo Downs ...............$750,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .9/28/12 5591 Redondo Court ...........$508,000 . . . .2321 . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . .9/27/12 1233 Buckeye Terrace .........$440,000 . . . .1911 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . .9/25/12 5550 Southbrook Drive ........$520,000 . . . .2233 . . . . .5/2.5 . . . . . .9/25/12

October 26, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Candidates say funding, communication top issues for MDUSD DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

Election season has descended on us once again. Fliers entreating us to support or deny countless measures and propositions are dumped in our mailboxes daily, and our commutes are enlivened by the colorful variety of campaign signs with a never-ending stream of candidate names. In an effort to make your decisions easier, at least with respect to the four candidates vying for the two seats open on the Mt. Diablo Unified School District Board of Directors, we did some of the research for you. With input from local community members, including CVCHS Executive Director David Linzey and parents Sherry Hamilton and Kelly Tuohey, we compiled a series of questions focused on issues relating directly to families in the Concord and Clayton area. We then posed these questions to incumbent Sherry Whitmarsh and challengers Barbara Oaks, Debra Mason and Brian Lawrence, and printed their responses below (edited only for space). While each of the candidates wrote about a need for greater communication between district administrators, school officials and parents, their views on how to fix the troubled MDUSD school system varied greatly. Here’s what they had to say. What do you see as the biggest issue affecting Clayton Valley schools that you’ll address if elected to the MDUSD Board? Sherry Whitmarsh – One of the biggest issues that exist in

SHERRY WHITMARSH

BARBARA OAKS

DEBRA MASON

BRIAN LAWRENCE

our schools is the state budget crisis. MDUSD needs to allow its schools to make educational decisions at the school site level. MDUSD is a very diverse district and what works at one school may not work at others. Barbara Oaks – I see the biggest issue at this time is to work with administration of Clayton Valley Charter High School so that the children will have a smooth transition to the charter school. We need to work together to be certain that the curriculum offered by the charter school and MDUSD is in alignment. Debra Mason – What I hear from the Clayton residents is that there is a distrust of and feeling that the district office is far removed from what is happening in local schools. I think the schools should reflect their neighborhood and the district should be responsive to the concerns and desires of the parents. Brian Lawrence – The biggest issue facing the Clayton area schools is the same one for all of the schools in Mt. Diablo – funding. We need to make sure that we spend our limited dollars in the most efficient manner possible to ensure the best education for our students.

Following a contentious fight with the MDUSD Board of Education, Clayton Valley Charter High School’s petition was finally approved by the Contra Costa County Board of Education. What is your opinion on the handling of the petition by district, and your plan for working with the charter officials in the future?

sons I am running for the board is because of the way the board responded to the staff and families from Clayton Valley High School who wanted a charter school. I think the way information was put out there ended up positioning one school against another and that helps no one. Lawrence – The district should have been more transparent and forthcoming with sharing information with the public and the Charter committee. We need to focus on what is best for students, not political power struggles. I welcome the invitation from the Clayton City Council to work together with the MDUSD Board.

about how to spend the money is made at the school site level with approval occurring at the board of education level. Oaks – I prefer Prop. 30 because funding would be immediate and would prevent further cuts occurring this year. Mason – I am in favor of Prop. 30. I think it will provide funds faster to the local schools and it is a five year plan, at the end of which time it can be evaluated and perhaps brought back to voters. Lawrence – I support Prop. 30 because if it does not pass, we are looking at a $14 million budget gap and 11 school furlough days.

There has been a steady decrease in the amount of money afforded local schools by the state. What are your positions on Propositions 30 and 38? Which proposition do you prefer to pass, if any, and why?

How in a time of increasingly limited resources do you intend to balance the varying needs of the 36,000+ MDUSD students, ensuring that each family, regardless of its place in the socio-economic spectrum, gets a quality education from the district?

Whitmarsh – The financials reviewed by the CCC Board of Education were different than the financials reviewed by the MDUSD Board of Education. Going forward I would like to see innovative learning models shared between MDUSD and CVCHS. I would also like to see site visits to classrooms where active learning is occurring so that everyone can become better at educating students. Oaks – I found the process distressing because the issue of finances seemed to have first priority and the education and needs of students were secondary. I plan on working with the administration of CVCHS in a respectful relationship to ensure success of the MDUSD students who will and do attend the charter school. Mason – One of the rea-

Whitmarsh – I support Prop. 30 and Prop. 38. Prop 30 does not increase funding but it allows funding to stay at the current level. Prop 38 increases funding in early childhood through 12th grade. Decisions

Whitmarsh – I believe the MDUSD Board should set the policy and the school sites should make the determination about their students. Our district office is there to support

JUST LISTED!

COMING SOON

$679,000 505 Mt. Davidson Court, Clayton Dana Hills – On a court backing Mt. Diablo this 5BD/3BA offers expanded rooms inc. master suite, family & formal dining w/gas fireplaces. Downstairs bed & full updated bath. Patio w/fountain & yard w/ waterfall.

1 El Portal Place, Clayton $599,000 Regency Meadows – 5BD/2.5BA has fantastic court location & large lot with boat parking. Beautiful entry way, updated kitchen with granite & spacious master. Sizeable fenced pool area. Mt. Diablo out your door!

$618,000 5229 Keller Ridge Drive, Clayton Falcon Ridge – 5BD/3BA in sought-after neighborhood has great curb appeal and a large lot. This twostory 2,894 sq. ft. home backs to open space to give you extra privacy. Enjoy fabulous open floor plan.

$100,000 1595 Lower Trail Ride, Clayton Concord Trail Ride – Just over an acre with building pad and utilities, this beautiful lot is fenced and surrounded by mature pine trees. Ride your horses right onto the mountain & enjoy the tranquility.

0 Wanda Way, Martinez $199,000 Alhambra Valley – Level .69 acre parcel is located in an upscale area and offers panoramic views and lots of privacy. Building pad, utilities at street, ready to go – sewer, city water. Build your dream home!

3077 Lakemont Drive, San Ramon $499,900 Canyon Lakemont – Clean, spacious 3BD/2BA unit offers upper level loft & an updated kitchen. Great views from the balcony. Near to golf course & amenities are great. A must see!

our schools to ensure that students are getting the best education possible. Oaks – It is the responsibility of the district and the board of education to make certain that all students are recipients of the educational basics through conservative spending and closely monitored fiscal management. Funding that is earmarked for specific student populations should be spent for supplemental materials, supplies and other instructional supports, subject to monitoring, to make sure these funds are being appropriately used for the intended purpose. Mason – I think this district is too big for a one-size-fits-all or a cookie-cutter approach. The local schools should be able to develop partnerships and resources that will help them achieve whatever goals the district decides to focus on. Lawrence – In order to improve, we must attract and retain great principals, teachers and staff. Currently, Mt. Diablo has difficulty with recruitment because of the negative perception of the district; many of the teachers at CVHS did not feel like the district listened to their concerns and that was one of the drivers behind the charter conversion. Let’s change this by becoming a district that truly values employees and students. Parents are crying over increasingly crowded classrooms and limited supplies. Administrators say the MDUSD administrative offices are cut nearly to the bone. But if more budget cuts are necessary, what areas would you target?

See MDUSD, page 4

1938/1944 Holly Creek Place, Concord Call For Specialty Pricing – Buy one or both ½ acre sites adjacent to private Holly Creek neighborhood. Build 2 high-end spec homes or one personal dream home! Lots are roughly graded, have drainage & shared well. Zoned SFR & horses allowed.

1043 Bismarck Terrrace, Brentwood $449,000 Summerset III – Beautifully appointed & expanded 2BD/2.5BA on premium golf course lot @ end of court. Living room w/access to pavilion-style covered patio & views. 55+ community living.

John Silvester, (925) 980-2896

Inge Yarborough, (925) 766-6896

www.JSilvester.withWRE.com

www.IngeYarborough.withWRE.com

Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else* *Statistics based on Clayton & Concord closed by sales volume (8/11 – 8/12). Data by Trendgraphix

"Like" us on

Clayton Resident & Broker Owner

DRE#01122025

- Windermere Clayton!

Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

We are moving to better serve you across the street

October 26, 2012

‘Lemon Lady’ needs your fruit for hunger effort With the local food pantries stretched to the max, Anna Chan is hoping to pick up the slack by picking up fruit from backyard trees that would otherwise go unharvested. “I know with certainty most people who own fruit trees have

5441 Clayton Road Clayton Station Shopping Center I Friday, Nov. 9: The current branch at 5442 Ygnacio Valley Road will close permanently at 5:30 p.m.

I Saturday, Nov. 10: ATM available at new location at 5441 Clayton Road

I Monday, Nov. 12:

Closed in observance of Veterans Day

I Tuesday, Nov. 13: New branch location at 5441 Clayton Road opens at 10 a.m.

Band, from page 1 Certainly the audiences appreciated the moving concert. There were big smiles from everyone who heard the band play, but none bigger than the little girl whose parents requested “Happy Birthday” for her sixth birthday. Perhaps the highlight for the band came when Ed Moresi of Ed’s Mudville Grill flagged down Clayton Police Chief Dan Lawrence and asked to have the band march through his restaurant. All 85 students marched single-file through Ed’s, playing “Big C” to a crowd of surprised and cheering patrons. The day ended at the park gazebo, where the band was congratulated by Mayor Howard Geller. It performed a final few tunes to a nice-size crowd, many of whom called out “one more” and “play longer” as the event ended. Tired but happy young musicians were enthusiastic about the street concert, and said they looked forward to doing it again. “It is great to see the people of the community come out to watch us,” said assistant Drum Major Zach Kopowski. Staff writer Peggy contributed to this story.

Spear

no idea that hunger is right around the corner from them,” Chan says. “And those oranges, lemons, tangerines that might just drop and rot on the ground will be wonderful to feed children who are poor.” Chan has been recognized locally and nationally as the “Lemon Lady” for her efforts on behalf of the hungry. She and her volunteers have hauled, harvested and redistributed hundreds of thousands of pounds of produce from Clayton, Concord and the surrounding area. She hasn’t missed a day of collecting in the nearly four years since she noticed, on a short drive around town, how much fruit was going to waste in people’s backyards. The harvesting season for persimmons, pomegranates and citrus fruits is coming up and Chan is looking for volunteers to help

Whitmarsh – Unfortunately if more budget cuts occur, there will be an increase in furlough days. I would also support looking into a parcel tax to see if MDUSD could raise funds that would be used for programs supported by parents and the community. Oaks – I would look at expenditures in the areas of consultant fees, temporary contracts, special programs, professional development, and any other areas which do not directly affect the classroom. Mason – A couple of areas that come to mind are the possi-

Realtor®, DRE#01370548

925.212.5593

925.932.7329

1248 Oak Knoll Drive

Prestigious Montecito luxury home! 5 bedrooms 3 baths with full downstairs suite! Glorious finishes and chef's kitchen (SubZero and more!). Offered at $679,000

www.3506DaviCt.com

SOLD

Click www.traviscu.org

Federally insured by NCUA. Everyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Contra Costa or Alameda, part of our 12-county area, is eligible to join. Certain requirements may apply.

3510 Alberti Court

Almost new! Pristine 3 bedroom 2.5 bath plus huge upstairs bonus! Fantastic location convenient to shopping, entertainment, and transit routes! Offered at $269,000

3399 St. Mary's Road

Gorgeous 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home with vaulted ceilings upstairs and down! Fabulous courtyard & lush landscape. spectacular double shower in master suite! Offered at $290,000

112 Mt. Whitney Way Prime Lafayette location - downtown & 10++ schools just steps from your front door! 3 bedrooms 2 baths - gorgeous custom kitchen! Soaring plank ceilings & huge master suite! Offered at $760,000

SOLD

Just call, click or stop by today: Call (800) 877-8328

ble sale of Willow Creek and doing all professional development for teachers on Wednesdays, the early dismissal day. I would also like to look at the millions of dollars that are coming in from energy savings from the solar project to see how they are being allocated. Lawrence – We can cut more bureaucracy and we should absolutely do that before we even begin to think about making cuts that impact the classroom. School districts should always be looking to cut waste and duplication, not just during a budget crisis.

STEPHANIE LOPEZ

Realtor®, DRE#01874255

Clayton Branch Manager Brad Slaughter and his staﬀ look forward to serving you at this new location.

her collect fruit and distribute 1000 fliers before Thanksgiving. “This is the time of year when families are looking for service projects to feed the hungry,” Chan explains. “One little flier can equal thousands of pounds of donated fruit.” Chan and her volunteers can harvest or pick up donated fruit to deliver to local hunger relief agencies. To help, contact AnnaAndAva@gmail.com; (925) 672-1988 or (510) 406-1625.

MDUSD, from page 3

LEIGH KLOCK

Over the upcoming Veterans Day holiday weekend, we’ll be relocating our Clayton Branch to 5441 Clayton Road, near the Safeway in the Clayton Station Shopping Center just across the street from its current location. This move will provide our members with an oﬃce that’s easier to ﬁnd, with brighter work spaces and greater access.

ANNA CHAN

We have buyers! This is the lovely single level Clayton home you have been waiting for! Updated and fresh inside and out! Large bedrooms, formal living & dining rooms, family room. Approx .25 acre lot and great view of Mt. Diablo! Offered at $589,500

Call if you have a golf course or single level home!

I N S P I R E D R E A L E S TAT E

www.myDynamicRealtors.com

October 26, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Notice of change in polling place for Nov. 6 election P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA

AND

Since the sample ballots were mailed for the Nov. 6 Presidential General Election, there has been a change to a polling location in the following city and precinct:

R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers

TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design

Page 5

Directory of Advertisers Auto Clayton Auto Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-1000 Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Beauty and Pampering Bella Mia Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-7792 Business Services Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . . .672-8717

P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor

OLD POLLING PLACE Voting Precinct 171 Engineer – Garage 1129 Discovery Way Concord, CA 94521

J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Nicci Shipstead, Pam Wiesendanger, Mike Dunn

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

NEW POLLING PLACE Voting Precinct 171 Crystyl Ranch HOA - Clubhouse 5301 Crystyl Ranch Dr Concord, CA 94521

Chiropractor Coflin Chiropractic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0500 Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-1519

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

Send Classified Ads to classified@claytonpioneer.com

CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word Non-profit: $24 for first 30 words, $.20 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.

Voters affected will receive a change notification postcard in the mail. Polling places are also listed on the election’s website at www.cocovote.us. For more information call (925) 335-7800 to speak to a member of the election staff.

Copa Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-2202 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 Iron Horse Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .595-3951 Ken Mitolo Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2460 Steffan Smith Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0497 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dentistry

Classified

Perfect Smiles Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . .889-9212 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440

PETS Munchkin is a five-month old grey tabby looking for a forever home. Shots in progress. Cautious kitty; likes to play fetch. Call Cat Hospital of Clayton 672-2287.

SERVICES 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.

Cheyenne Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .566-8226

Book Greg Fogg of My Evergreen Soul now for your holiday parties, wedding receptions, other occasions. Live violin music from classical to jazz and contemporary. Solo violin or duo with guitar. Reasonable rates. 826-8222 or bikerfogg1@gmail.com. Clayton Community School at Mount Diablo Elementary School offers school-age childcare. 6:45 a.m. – 6:15 p.m. Preschool 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Monday thru Friday. Call 6720388 for details.

W es Co t C nv oa eni st en Sa t ilin g

Getting you out and about. Local mom, active in the community offering non-medical and practical help: shopping, errands, salon, doctor visits. Transportation included. Seniors About Town, Terri Gerow at 330-5090.

Memo’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0395

Video tape transfer to DVD. Can convert several tape formats (VHS, miniDV, VHS-C, 8mm). These make great holiday gifts. Only $15 per tape; 4 for $50. Call Tony at 524-2616.

Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . .800-949-3276

Election Geller, Howard - Clayton . . . . .councilmangeller@aol.com Longshore, Carol - Concord . . . . . .clongshr@astound.net Events Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737, ext. 217 Financial and Insurance Services Held, Chris - Morgan Stanley Smith Barney . . . .930-3815 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Prosperitas Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7700

HELP WANTED City of Clayton Office Assistant/Code Enforcement Officer (salary range: $38,352-$46,608 plus benefits): City of Clayton seeks a highly motivated, multi-tasking, self starter with excellent computer and customer service skills. Under general direction, provides a variety of technical and field functions regarding the city’s Business License Program; enforcement of municipal land use codes; coordinates city park and facility rentals. High School Graduate. Government experience preferred. Closes 5 p.m. Nov. 9, 2012. For details and application, visit www.ci.clayton.ca.us or call 925-673-7300.

Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-877-8328 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Flooring City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-8220 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Optometry

Rodie’s Seeking part-time Administrative Assistant. Strong math, computer and phone communication skills required. Must be able to work Thursdays and Fridays, eight hours each. Email resume to nicole@rodiesfeed.com. No phone calls please.

Grand Princess sails an array of cruises from the City by the Bay Sail from the City by the Bay to destinations both near and far. Head west to Hawaii, north to Alaska, south to Mexico or sample other California cities along the coast. Whichever cruise destination entices you. †

15-day Hawaiian Islands

7-day California Coastal

2013 Departure Dates: Oct 4, 26; Nov 10, 25; Dec 20 2014 Departure Dates: Jan 4, 19; Feb 3, 18; Mar 22; Apr 13, 28

2013 Departure Dates: Sep 27; Oct 19 2014 Departure Dates: Mar 15; Apr 6

Seeking Sales Associate, part time, 2-3 days, weekdays or weekend. Apply in person (no phone calls please.). Rodie’s Feed and Pet Supply, 8863 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton. 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.

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 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 Recreation and Fitness Blaze Volleyball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .alloutsportsleague.com Castle Rock Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .933-3701 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Kali Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276-0845 Senior Services Courtyards at Pine Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-3900

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED 10-day Mexico 2013 Departure Dates: Sep 17 2014 Departure Dates: Mar 5

10-day Alaska Inside Passage 2013 Departure Dates: May 10, 20, 30; Jun 9, 19, 29; Jul 9, 19, 29; Aug 8, 18, 28; Sep 7

Art Clayton Valley Art Collaborative (CVAC) is looking for computer savvy individual for specific projects. Appreciation for art and creative people necessary. CVAC collaborates with wide range of community organizations, individuals and businesses in East Bay. Contact Candace Bass at 673-7036 or kndbass@aol.com. Help Fight Hunger Anna Chan – go to thelemonlady.blogspot.com. Hospice of the East Bay 887-5678 or carmens@hospiceeastbay.org.

Clayton Station Shopping Ctr. 5439 Clayton Rd., Ste. F, Clayton

(925) 672-9840

The Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter. 672-0240 Clayton Community Library 673-9777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com.

Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Montecito - Oakmont Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . .852-6702 Services, Other Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840 Holiday Guide Jennifer Leischer Interior Design . . . . . . . . . . . . .270-9955 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323

Respect Do the Right Thing

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

It figures that owning makes more cents than renting

Father and Daughter Owned & Operated

T HE H OUSE

Make early reservations for

P IPIAN

Holiday dining & catering,

F INE D INING

and get

Like us on Facebook

Don’t miss out on our unique & delicious desserts

Vegetarian, vegan friendly & gluten free

(valid for 10 people or more)

Adelio and Ivalina

(925) 914-0395 2118 Mt. Diablo St., Concord

memoscuisine.com

For reservations

Now

10% off

ls ke ay o a r Ka onda s on M to 11 pm 8 pm

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

Oct. 26, 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Desert Moon Nov. 2, 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Whiskey River Karaoke Mon. & Wed. nights

Open Mic Thur. nights, 8-11 pm

www.claytonclubsaloon.com Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 11/8/12

2 for the price of 1

Cheyenne Electric Inc. • Residential & commercial

Insured and Bonded License #624336

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS Q. I am deciding if I would be better off financially by renting or buying a home. How do I do the calculation? A. It is really simple. If you bought a $500,000 home your property tax would be around $6,500 a year. This is totally tax deductible. If your payment was $2,500 a month the majority of your payment at first is interest. Let’s say $2,300. That is $27,600 a year. Adding $6,500 and $27,600 equals $34,100 total deduction. If your taxable income is $75,000 you would pay tax on: $75,000 minus $34,100, or $40,900. If you have a 28 percent income tax rate your tax would be $11,452 instead of $21,000 for $75,000. If you divide the savings over 12 months, $21,000 minus $11,452 equals $9,548; $9,548 divided by 12 months is a $795.66 a month savings. It would make your effective payment $1,704.34.

Most rents these days are higher than this in our area. A couple of other things you should consider: In the first year many of your closing costs are also deductible. The other factor is appreciation of value. You will keep paying the same payment when your property value increases over the years. I guess this is part of the reason that home ownership is the American dream. Q. Our family wants to sell our house. We don’t want to buy another home for some time. I am worried about capital gains. Do we have to roll over our gain into a more expensive house to defer the capital gains? A. The law you are referring to was in place until 1997. That year a new and better exemption for capital gains became the law. If you meet certain criteria, $250,000 for a single person or $500,000 for a couple, you may be exempt from taxation. Here are the criteria: 1. You have lived in the home as your principal residence for two out of the last five years;

566-8226 Check us out at

Yelp.com

CheyenneElectricInc.com

Farm and ranch operators around Marsh Creek Road and Morgan Territory Road are eligible to apply for a cost-share program through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. The Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) assists eligible individuals or entities by cost-sharing on practices that address a wide range of natural resource concerns and provides opportunities to improve soil, water, plant, ani-

mal, air and related resources on agricultural land and non-industrial private forestland. Practices such as micro-irrigation, cover crops, pest and nutrient management can be cost-shared on crop lands that have been irrigated at least two out of the last five years.. Applications can be submitted throughout the year. Deadline to apply for funding for 2013 is Nov. 16. For additional information,

Medrano, from page 1 Duette® Architella® Honeycomb Shades

SAVE $100* OR MORE

with qualifying purchases of Hunter Douglas window fashions.

Pirouette® Window Shadings

Dress Up Your Home for the Holidays. Save September 15 — December 15 on select Hunter Douglas window fashions.* ’Tis the season for you and your guests to celebrate in style.

Full-Service Design Firm Interiors Panache

6160 Center St years of design experience • Design consultations • 21 Clayton CA – model homes, commercial • Custom draperies kirsten@interiorspanache.com & residential • Major furniture brands carol@interiorspanache.com • Clayton resident for 15 years at a discount 925-672-7920

6160 Center St, Clayton CA kirsten@interiorspanache.com

www.interiorspanache.com

925-672-7920

carol@interiorspanache.com

www.interiorspanache.com

2. You have not sold or exchanged a primary residence during the preceding two years; 3. You meet what the IRS calls “unforeseen circumstances,” such as job loss, divorce, or family medical emergency. The way you calculate gain, start with what you paid for the property originally. Add your costs of purchase, your cost of current sale and cost of improvements over the years. Improvements such as repairs or cosmetic additions such as new carpet and paint don’t count. For instance if you paid $300,000 in 1990 and sold this year for $500,000 the initial gain would be $200,000. If costs of purchase were $3,000, costs of sale were $18,000, and cost of improvements (such as a new deck, landscaping and kitchen expansion) was $70,000, that equals $91,000. You would add $91,000 to the $200,000 gain, so your total base would be $291,000. Now, subtract $291,000 from $500,000 for a total gain of $209,000. This is well within the exemption for even a single owner. You don’t have to buy again to

Conservation program may help area farmers and ranchers

installation, remodel, repair and troubleshooting • Emergency repairs 24/7 • Free estimates Owned by Mike Henry & Bob Breland

October 26, 2012

* Manufacturer’s rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/15/12 – 12/15/12. Ask a sales representative for information on qualifying purchases. All rebates will be issued in U.S. dollars, in the form of an American Express® Prepaid Reward Card. This rebate offer may not be combined with any other Hunter Douglas offer or promotion. © 2012 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.

31806

No charge for

measures or sample check outs

not really surprised. “If a case has gone to trial, the DA feels pretty strongly about it,” said Shuey who is an attorney. “This is a real unfortunate thing,” he said of his friend’s conviction. “I think Joe believed he had a contract and had a right to keep the money.” A convicted felon cannot serve in elected office. By law, Medrano’s seat was immediately vacated leaving the City Council to determine how to replace him. Since the election is less than 30 days away, Councilwoman Julie Pierce says it would be logical to simply wait for the election results. Medrano’s name will still

appear on the ballot, but, even if elected, he cannot serve. With Medrano out, the candidate field drops to four - incumbents Julie Pierce and Howard Geller and challengers Jim Diaz and Kevin Liberman. In a statement to the City Council, Medrano said he was “surprised and disappointed by the verdict,” and plans to appeal. For nine years, iPass was Medrano’s largest client, funneling over $12 million in premiums through Medrano’s firm. In June of 2009, a management change at iPass brought new eyes to the relationship. The new CFO took issue with incon-

Cruise Adventures Unlimited Serving all cruise lines since 1987

You are invited

eligible producers are encouraged to contact their local NRCS Service Center. Service center locations and more information on the programs can be found at www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov. NRCS has provided leadership in a partnership effort to help America’s private land owners and managers conserve natural resources since 1935. Contact Hilary Phillips, District Conservationist, at (925) 672-4577, ext. 102.

sistencies in Medrano’s proposal for renewal of the company’s Directors and Officers (D&O) policy. He fired Medrano and moved the D&O coverage to a new broker. Later, when iPass sent him the premiums for its Workers Compensation policy, Medrano kept the $160,000 premium money instead of sending it to the carrier. He claimed that a verbal contract with the outgoing CFO entitled him to a commission on the D&O renewal even though the coverage was placed through the new broker. Medrano has been a major contributor to civic and school events and an outspoken proponent of the charter school conversion. He was a sponsor of the Labor Day Derby and donated the scoreboards to the Clayton Community Gym. Reaction to the verdict has been strong. “I feel sad for Joe’s family and for Joe too, as he has given gener-

receive this and you can do this again every two years. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions, contact her at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

Volunteer or donate to help make ‘Christmas for Everyone’ Christmas for Everyone (CFE) is a non-profit volunteer organization serving people in need during the Christmas season in Contra Costa County. Your help is needed to provide a full Christmas Day so no one spends the holiday alone or in need. Each guest receives a new gift and gently-used clothing. A traditional Christmas meal is served with all the trimmings. Upon request, food and gifts are delivered to the home-bound. Last year, CFE had more than 4,000 people attend this event. This year, organizers are asking for help from the public. With the changing of the seasons, it is a perfect time to go through your closets and donate gently used clothing you no longer wear. The Clayton Pioneer office will be a drop-off point for your donations of clothing, money and toys. Or, you can contact Howard Geller at (925) 3234913 and to arrange for pick up. To volunteer to help CFE prior to or on Christmas day, call (925) 2282233 or e-mail twc98perez@comcast.net.

ously to our community for many years,” Pierce said. “While we frequently disagreed on issues, it’s still sad to see his public career end this way.” “It’s hard to reconcile the Joe I know with this verdict,” Shuey said. “All the good he has done will fall by the wayside because of this.” The maximum penalty for embezzlement with an enhancement for the “excessive taking” of more than $65,000 is four years in state prison. If he files an appeal, he could ask for a stay of the sentence, said San Mateo District Attorney Steven Wagstaffe. “This is granted sometimes, but not always,” he said. “It depends whether the defense proves to the trial court that there is an issue on appeal that is close. I do not see that in this case.” Sentencing is set for Dec. 12. Until then, Medrano remains free on his own recognizance.

UTOPIC GARDENS

to enjoy two special presentations:

etg at Carp r ta tin S

sq.ft. $ 1.99

Tilineg at

Start

ft. .49 sq.

Lamin ate Start ing

by Brent Dixon, Naturalist

99 ¢ sq.fatt .

Monday, November 5, 2012

Hurry ! This Sale Ends Nov. 15

RSVP to jennifer@cautravel.com or 925-935-7447

Abbey Carpet & Floor 1170 Burnett Ave., Ste. E, Concord

Alaska Cruisetours and History of Alaska

Flooring & Interiors

925-686-9901

Contra Costa Floors Showroom hours: M-F 9-5 Sat 10-4

6:15-7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts 1601 Civic Dr,Walnut Creek

Owners Valerie O’Connell (Clayton resident, 30 years) & daughter Colleen O’Connell

CST 2074362-40

Admission is complimentary but reservations are required

(925) 935-7447

Creative Landscapes

925-524-0055 DESIGN & INSTALLATION

1610 Locust St., Walnut Creek

LIC. NO. 898331 Fully Insured

www.cruiseadventuresunlimited.com

www.UtopicGardens.com

October 26, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

DVMS raises $250 for district food pantry

Page 7

Thanksgiving Camps www.CastleRockArabians.com

Everyday hundreds of people go hungry. With the economy struggling, many food banks, including the Mount Diablo Unified School District’s Food Pantry, are in need of more food to restock their shelves. To help meet this demand, the Diablo View Middle School Service Learning students organized a movie night on Oct. 17 and collected a $4 donation for the MDUSD food pantry. About $250 was raised through ticket sales for the movie. When asked what she hoped that her students take away from

SAMANTHA TUOHEY

DVMS REPORTER this project, Service Learning class teacher Ms. Rush replied, “That by pulling together, working as a team, and asking for

guidance, they can make the impossible possible.” There are probably not very many children in Clayton who go hungry on a regular basis, but in the last year more than 500 students from our district needed the food pantry’s services. The district food pantry collects and buys food to put together boxes with enough food for three to four days for a family of four. All of the food that comes into the food pantry is checked for expiration dates, sorted and boxed by volunteers. Donations can be dropped off at the MDUSD District

Office, 1936 Carlotta Drive, Concord. Some needed items are peanut butter, rice, canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, pasta, pasta sauce, and other nonperishable foods. For more information on how to donate food or just about the district’s Food Pantry in general, contact district employee Elsa Dalpiaz at 925-687-0363, ext. 3095. Samantha Tuohey is in the seventh grade at Diablo View Middle School and plans to be a writer someday. Email your story ideas, comments and questions to Samantha@claytonpioneer.com.

Don’t let college interviews haunt you

Thanksgiving Week Mon., Tues. & Wed. Nov. 19, 20 & 21 Fri. and Sat. Nov. 23 & 24.

1 day $120 2 days $200 3 days $270

Love Designe?r Eyewear

r the See us fo yles latest st

Dr. Jeanette Hochstatter

ALEX SHIMBERG TeenSpeak

Of all the things to fear during the Halloween season, a college interview should not be one of them. Although these interviews are often optional, they are a great way to show early interest in a college and also get to know more about the school of your choice. After going through three college interviews in the span of two weeks I have a few tips that I can give to any student interested in taking up the challenge. What to Wear: I suggest dressing up as if you are going to church or to a nice restaurant. You don’t want to be too fancy, but you still need to look nice. For my interviews I wore a collared grey dress shirt with black dress pants, and black dress

shoes. Hopefully, you can find something at home and won’t have to invest in a whole new outfit just for a few college interviews. Arrive on Time: Although these may seem obvious, it’s amazing how many stories there are about teenagers who missed their interview and because of that didn’t get accepted into that college. As with any important event, you should give yourself at least 10-20 minutes of leeway time in case there is traffic or something else occurs that may cause the drive to take longer than it typically should. Parents: Unless it is specifically stated otherwise, you shouldn’t bring your parent into a college interview. The interviewer will want to see your independence and bringing mom and dad with you could start the inter-

Early orientation set for Nov. 13 for CVCHS incoming freshmen class If your child will be a freshman at Clayton Valley Charter High School next year, join David Linzey, CVCHS’s executive director, for an early orientation meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 13 in the school gym. Linzey encourages parents to join the school in supporting their vision: “We will prepare all of our students to become first class citizens with a world class education and empower them with the 21st century skills that will lead to admissions to the university and

career of their choice.” He will introduce the school board members, administrative team, academic counselors and academy leaders. Applications and other key information for admission will be available. CVCHS is focused on offering rigorous academic programs that prepare students for college while also offering guidance programs, athletics and arts programs that prepare them for life in general.

For more information, go to claytonvalley.org.

view off on a very bad note. The Handshake: It’s a good idea to start the interview off with a firm handshake. Be sure to make strong eye contact with the interviewer while you are introducing yourself and also throughout the course of the interview. Current Events: It is crucial to be up to date with current events when conducting a college interview, especially with the more prestigious colleges. During one of my interviews I was asked about the ongoing civil war in Libya. It’s a good idea to watch the news or read the newspaper during the week of your interview to be sure that you are up to date with both local and global events. The “Why do you want to go to this college?” question: This question is almost certainly going to come up at some point. In order to properly answer it you will need to have done some research on the college. You should try to come up with at least three reasons why the college is a good fit for you. Make sure you are enthusiastic while expressing your interest for the college.

Relax: Remember to stay calm throughout the whole process. I can admit that I was very nervous at first, but as the interviews progressed I began to feel more and more relaxed and it made it much easier to answer the questions. Be yourself: The most important thing is to remain true to who you really are. It’s a lot easier to tell the truth than stumble over lies that attempt to portray you in a glorified fashion. As someone who has recently gone through the process, I can promise you that an interview is a very valuable use of your time, and something that every college-bound student should consider. Follow these guidelines and you will have nothing to worry about. Alex Shimberg is a senior at CVCHS and co-editor of the school newspaper, The Talon. He will major in international relations in college and plans on a career in politics. He lives in Concord with his parents and sister. Send comments to alex@claytonpioneer.com

925.672.4100 CLAYTON VALLEY CENTER Most insurance plans accepted

foresightoptometry.com

The UPS Store Independently owned and operated

Looking for a better Mailbox? Secure 24-hour access, plus it’s a real street address for all your deliveries.

3 MONTHS FREE mailbox services with a twelve-month agreement. Notary, Packaging, Fax and Copy Services are available too!

Clayton/Concord Location: Vineyard Shopping Center

Store Hours M-F 8-7 Sat 9-5

No Subcontractors

5100 Clayton Road Concord, CA 94523 ph: 925-689-6245

Installations by In-House Crew

On Sale through the Month of November

Ken Mitolo

Carpet • Vinyl • Hardwood Laminate • Ceramic Tile

CONSTRUCTION In stock: Carpet • Hardwood • Vinyl BATHROOMS KITCHENS DOORS WINDOWS

FIREPLACES MOLDINGS DECKS LIGHTING

ystem S g n i n a e l Dry C for Rent Host

2291 Via De Mercados, Ste E, Concord, CA CA Lic. #531028B

(925) 672-2460 Serving Clayton/Concord for 20+ years

925 680 8220

Mon - Fri 9-5 Sat 10-5 Sun closed

www.flooringcity.com

Bilingual Staff FREE Estimates FREE Sample Check Out

Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 26, 2012

It’s a brand new ecosystem with Windows 8 - and yes, you care

Contractors Lic #879423 Arborist Lic WE-7372A

What’s a computer ecosystem anyway and should you care? The geek news machine is all abuzz with the pending Windows 8 release due Oct. 26. Unlike so many Windows releases from DOS to Windows 7 that single out PCs and notebook computers, Microsoft is introducing a new paradigm that embraces all hardware like PCs, tablets, notebooks, smart phones and game machines. This time it is really different, and it’s about ecosystems. A computer ecosystem is a complex web of interrelated functions that encompasses everything about the computing experience. It’s about making the experience seamless across hardware platforms like how one uses the PC to the way “apps” are made and distributed.

HOMES Are Selling & Prices Starting Back UP!

TOWN CENTER COMMERCIAL LOT

This .638 Acre lot at 6070 Center St. in Town Center is For Sale at a great price. Put your own 2-story commercial building on it with Retail, offices and Condos now while costs are low to be ready for the Next Recovery! 2 small homes on it are rented as carriers to collect rents until you build!

KNOWLEDGE SERVICE INTEGRITY RESULTS

DRE#00344166

$595,000!

MLS#40581500 or Call Pete for more Info, (925) 890-6004!

YOUR HOME COULD BE HERE FOR BUYERS TO SEE! Pete Laurence,

Your e Hom e Her

This could be the time to sell if the market “softens” again after the upcoming California Election. Call PETE to discuss your options and to put Pete and his Years of Experience on YOUR Team. Whether we sell now or next year, let's put Your Home here, for all Clayton & Clayton Valley to know about!

Discover

the

Serving Clayton and ALL of C.C. County. Walnut Creek office

Difference

Amenities & Services

2 outstanding meals served daily Weekly housekeeping & fresh linens Concierge style service Chauffeured transportation daily On-call 24-hour professional staffing

Full program of diverse recreational and cultural offerings Full service beauty salon Community gardens for green thumbs Library and computer center

Spacious 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments with Rent and Services INCLUDED

fication. Anyone can build, distribute and promote crappy apps. Viruses find their way into your computer through these badly written apps and wide-open distribution systems. A tight distribution system and Microsoft certified apps will help eliminate these problems. HYBRID WINDOWS Microsoft has decided to bind Windows 8 to Windows 7, the previous version of the OS, in a hybrid approach to migrating to the new version. This hybrid will remain bundled with Windows 8 for a few years while the ecosystem is fully developed and deployed. I realize there is more to this story and in time I will deliver it. But for now, if you need computers for productivity, for business and most common uses like Internet, then Windows 8 is your ecosystem. 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.

Cell: (925) 890-6004

Enjoy a private residence with a wealth of services and amenities at your fingertips all for one low monthly rate.

LIVE TILES The first difference the typical user will notice is the look and feel of the desktop (Start screen). The Start screen is populated with live tiles. A tile is similar to an icon, except the tile can be interactive with the program it supports. The tile provides information about the current status of the application beneath it. For example, let’s say you have an email app like Google mail and you just received mail. The tile will update the number of new messages that are waiting for you. Simply look at the tile to instantly know how many new mail messages you have. Let’s say you have a news app like CNN. The tile will tell you what news stories are just in and give you a headline, all in real

APPLICATIONS (APPS) Applications, those programs you run, will be developed, deployed and delivered in a new way, similar to Apple’s Apps Store. Microsoft will support its own store, called Microsoft Store, that will cater to smart phones and PC-like computer platforms. Most apps will work the same under each platform, with the long-term goal to have them interchangeable between platforms and offered at very low cost. In the near future, the Microsoft store will be the only way to load apps and purchase software. The reason for this type of tight control over the apps is twofold: for security and then for consistency. The reason there are so many virus and malware problems with current versions of Microsoft Windows is the open nature of distribution and the lack of certi-

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK

Broker, Realtor, GRI

The Finest Retirement Living for Seniors 55+

time. Live tiles are resizeable as well. If you want more info on the tile, make it bigger; if you want less, make it smaller. Arrange or rearrange tiles as you like, say, with the most important ones at the top and least important on the bottom. Live tiles work the same on your PC, notebook, tablet, smart phone, Xbox and all other devices that adopt Windows 8. This is ecosystem.

Rates a s as $1, low 887*

The evolution of brake systems There seems to be some mystery about brake systems on cars. Since there are enough scares going on this season, let’s shed some light on brakes. There are three different types of brake systems. First is the nonassist type, not seen on modern vehicles. This system is made up of the master cylinder, pedal, brake lines, calipers and pads, or shoes. When you step on the brake pedal it pushes on the master cylinder, forcing fluid through the brake lines into the wheel cylinders or calipers, forcing the puck out against the pads or shoes, pinching the rotor causing friction and slowing the vehicle down. This system has no assistance so the pedal needs to be pushes down very hard and fast stops are very difficult to make. This system for braking is found on cars made before 1960. The second type of braking system is power-assisted. This system has the same components of the first system but with the addition of a booster. This booster may be vacuum or hydraulic. When you step on the brake pedal the booster adds more pressure to

GARY TAYLOR CAR TUNED the system. This allows less strain on the driver and better braking for the car. This type of system is on all modern vehicles. One problem with this system is that if the driver pushes too hard on the pedal, the wheels will lock up and the car will skid. This can lead to the driver losing control and crashing. The third type of braking system is antilock brakes. This system has the same components as the other two, but with the addition of wheel sensors and a computer. This system works the same as the others, but with one big difference. When the driver steps on the brake pedal the brake

FREE GAS Visit us at ClaytonValleyShell.com for more promotions

computer looks at the wheel sensors to see if all are turning at the same speed. If it finds one that is locked up or turning at a different speed it will take over the braking system. At this point the driver will feel a drop in the brake pedal and feel the pedal pulsing. In many cases this scares the driver, who will start pumping the brake pedal, thus overriding the antilock system. It is very difficult to just keep your foot on the pedal and let an unknown take over. In some vehicles the antilock brakes are tied into the traction control system. When the traction control module sees a wheel slipping or turning faster than the rest, it will apply a small amount of brake force to keep all the wheels turning at the same speed. Most of time the driver only knows this happened because a light on the dash has illuminated. Check with your mechanic if you have any questions about the brake system in your car. Gary Taylor is service manager at Clayton Valley Shell. Call him with questions at (925) 672-3900

$ 10 with A/C Check $ 15 with Oil Change $ 15 with Smog Check

Clayton Valley Shell Full Service Auto Care I live here too.

6401 Center Street, Clayton CA 94517 Call today for a personal tour and complimentary lunch

Complete Auto Repair foreign and domestic Free shuttle service for major repairs

(925) 524-5100 # TTY 711 diamondterrace.irmmanagement.com

*Rents are usually $2,106. Income limits apply.

Corner of Clayton Road & Kirker Pass Road

(925) 672-3900 *Offer good at Clayton Valley Shell only and may not be combined. Expires 11/08/12. Must present coupon at time of work estimate.

October 26, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 9

Don’t let your closet be a house of horrors

JUDITH MARSHALL

FASHION OVER 50 Every season, the runways are jam-packed with trend after trend. The key is to sift through what works and what doesn’t. In honor of the Halloween holiday lurking around the corner, here is my list of frightening trends you may want to avoid: The cape – Every few years,

designers try to re-introduce this look. I’m sorry, but for most women, it just doesn’t work – unless you’re Wonder Woman, of course. Head-to-toe black leather – This look may work for a dominatrix, but it’s safer to choose one leather piece – either a jacket or pants, but not both. Oversized coats – Bigger is not always better. If you’re small, you’ll look lost in this coat. If you’re a little bigger than you’d like, you’ll look a whole lot bigger. Stick with a classic trench in a buttery suede, leather or bright color. Mixing prints – Unless you’re a fashion expert, this trend can be daunting. Start slow with prints of the same

color scheme. Patterned pants – Printed slacks splashed with stripes, flowers and polka dots can instantly transport you back a few decades – and not in a good way. There’s a reason fancy p a n t s belong in the first grade. They also can make your thighs and bum look bigger. Instead, choose a solid color pant, perhaps in red, to make a c r i s p ,

vibrant statement. Ski-style sweaters – While these will definitely keep you warm, they will also add bulk. Layering thinner knits is more flattering. The dark side of makeup – Inky purple lips are not for everyone, nor are navy blue nails. Also beware of metallic eye shadow which can settle into creases and lines. The key to adapting any fashion trend is to be selective. Choose carefully. Not every trend is in your best interest. Live long and pester! Judith Marshall is the author of “Husbands May Come and Go but Friends are Forever.” Send comments to Judith.Marshall@att.net.

Know your carpets before pulling the rug out color scheme and coordinate with your existing furniture? How do you choose the right wall-to-wall carpeting for your home?

JENNIFER LEISCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR It’s time to replace the wallto-wall carpeting in your home, but how do you find a carpet that’s not going to look dirty? How do you find a carpet that will work with your current

COLOR AND PATTERN Just like paint, you need to determine if you want the carpet to make a statement, or become the backdrop of your living space. If your furniture and walls are neutral and you’re looking to make a statement, the same way you would use a decorative area rug, installing wall-towall carpeting with a pattern, stripe, floral or plaid, is a perfect solution. If you’re looking for a neu-

tral backdrop, a solid-colored carpet is best. Universal carpet colors that work best in most homes are the wheat colored tones; muted colors like gold, ivory and taupe, or a combination of all three. Carpeting with multicolored fibers appears to be solid, but has this really nice way of coordinating with all existing colors in your living space. These multicolored fibers also hide daily wear and tear. STYLE Carpeting falls into three basic groups; cut pile, loop pile, or cut-loop pile, and within these groups there are several variances, but let’s stick with the

basics for now. Cut pile is your basic. All fibers are cut at the same length, just like a freshly mowed lawn. Loop pile is what many call Berber, where the fibers are in loops, rather than cut. And cut-loop pile is a combination of the two. Flooring of any kind is hard to keep clean…period. If you have dark floors, your floor is getting dirty, you just can’t see it. And if you have light flooring, it’s not that it’s collecting more dirt, it’s just more noticeable. In my experience, multi-colored loop piles or cut-loop piles seem to hide daily wear and tear best.

Doug Van Wyck CLU ChFC, Agent Insurance Lic. # 0586396

6200 Center St. Ste. A Clayton, CA 94517

925-672-2300

Your good neighbor has a roadmap just for you. Does planning for your retirement leave you feeling a bit lost? I can get you headed in the right direction.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY.

See Carpets, page 12

VOTE

Carol Longshore Concord City Council 2012

3230 Fraser Rd., Antioch

$189,000

• History • Heritage • Day Care • Seniors • Smaller Government

3 Bedroom, 2 bath, 1,650 sq. ft.

2165 W. Park St., Stockton $50,000 Duplex.

1552 Alro Ct., Concord

$325,000 3 bedroom 2 bathroom, approx.1,367 sq. ft.

SOLD

Have a Happy Halloween Mazzei Realty welcomes Paula Johnstone to their team

PENDING

332 Colonial Way, Rio Vista

$160,000

2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,439 sq. ft.

Paula Johnstone Broker Associate

• Concord resident for over 60 years. • Mt. Diablo High School graduate before attending Diablo Valley College. • Co-founder of the Mt. Diablo High School Sports Hall of Fame, a volunteer for non-profit, Social Advocates for Youth, as well as a board member for the Concord Historical Society.

“I believe that a town without history is like a tree without roots. Concord has history.”

• Regular contributor to “The Concord Historian” and “The Concordian.”

DRE# 00797857

445 Fremont Peak Dr., Brentwood $635,470 6 bedroom, 4.5 bath, 4,902 sq. ft.

384 Wildrose Circle, Pinole 627 Carpino Ave, Pittsburg

With my deeply rooted and heartfelt experience over many years of service, I invite you to vote for me for Concord City Council on November 6th.

Matt Mazzei, Jr.

$104,900

Spacious Duplex! Each unit 2 bedroom/ 1 bathroom. Perfect investment property.

mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959

925-693-0757 (Main)

As a mother, grandmother and Concord senior citizen, my commitment is firm for daycare services for children, and activities for seniors as well as continuing to be a voice for the people who are frustrated by big government.

$239,900

3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, approx. 1,686 sq.ft.

925-381-8810 heypaula10@gmail.com

Broker/Owner DRE# 01881269

925-766-6745 mazzeirealty@yahoo.com

6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton

925-693-0752 (Fax)

Email: clongshr@astound.net Committee ID # 1350183

Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 26, 2012

Sports So much on the line Friday night for CVCHS football JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Clayton Valley Charter High School won its seventh consecutive football game last Friday in impressive 49-6 fashion over local rivals Concord High, setting up its most important nonplayoff game in at least five years when the Eagles host Northgate this Friday evening at Gonsalves Stadium. At stake is not only the Diablo Valley Athletic League championship but also a top seed heading into the North Coast Section playoffs where the Eagles will be taking part for the ninth time in the past decade. Clayton Valley last won a league title in 2008, the year the school was once again placed in the DVAL, reigniting its rivalry with Concord. In the five years the two nearby Concord schools have been back together in the DVAL the league game has usually been a lopsided affair. Only in 2008 when CV won 29-22 was it a close contest. The following year Concord started a threeyear winning streak over the Eagles with a 56-20 win only to have the Eagles win their NCS playoff matchup a month later 48-28. In the past two years Concord won by a combined 92-14 and went on to the NCS Division II championship game both years. Coach Tim Murphy’s wing gun offense has been setting and then eclipsing numerous Clayton Valley school records while scoring 49 or more points in seven straight games after losing its opener to Pittsburg 40-27. In that season opener CVCHS punted three teams and had a pass intercepted. In the seven games since

Mike Dunn photo

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER JUNIOR BEN DAVIS (16) BREAKS UP A PASS intended for Concord High receiver Bryan Muonekwu (88) as the Eagles won the rivalry game last Friday 49-6. Three other Eagle defenders, Jesse Medrano (42), Nick Oatley (15) and Tanner Wraa (18), were also in coverage.

then Clayton Valley has punted only one time with every game eventually having a running clock to keep down the final score. In addition the Eagles high tempo offense has had only one turnover in those games and that by the second team. Northgate is also undefeated in DVAL play and this week’s game will determine the league champion, regardless of results from the final week when the Broncos host Ygnacio Valley and

Sports Shorts MT. DIABLO WORLD CUP SOCCER CONCLUDES THIS WEEKEND

The three-week long Mt. Diablo World Cup tournament for under 10, 12 and 14 MDSA divisions concludes this Saturday and Sunday. The Cup culminates the AYSO fall soccer season for 60 teams with berths in the Area 2C tournament next month at stake for the top finishers in Sunday’s finals. The U12 weekend games are at Clayton Community Park, U10 at Mountain. View Elementary in Concord and the U14 games are split between Clayton Community and Pine Hollow Middle School. For details on the World Cup visit mdsoccer.org.

CLUB VOLLEYBALL TRYOUT AT CLAYTON GYM NOV. 10 All Out Sports is holding tryouts at Clayton Community Gym for Blaze girls volleyball club on Saturday, Nov. 10, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. for ages 10-18. The competitive volleyball program runs from January – June with Blaze teams playing in up to 10 tournaments throughout Northern California. Cost to tryout is $10 per player. Information and registration for tryouts can be found at alloutsportsleague.com. For more information on the Blaze program and tryout requirements contact coach Shauna at (510) 816-3362.

the Eagles close the regular season against visiting Mt. Diablo. Northgate passes a little more often than Clayton Valley but relies heavily on its balanced running attack with four runners having over 250 yards this year. The Eagles offense is a family affair with junior quarterback Mike Protheroe and his older brother Joe Protheroe leading the way. The QB has eight touchdown passes and 12 TDs rushing while triggering the

offense. His senior running back brother is one of the state’s top ball carriers with 20 rushing and one receiving touchdowns. Joe Protheroe, who transferred from Mt. Diablo after his freshman year, has nearly 1800 years rushing in eight games. For the first time Northern California will have a Regional Championship game in each division to determine the NorCal representative in the State Bowl Games in December. Murphy

DIABLO FC WINTER SOCCER ACADEMY NOW ACCEPTING PLAYERS

Diablo FC’s renowned 1annual Winter Soccer Academy, now in its 12th year, is taking signups for its 2013 session running on Mondays and Thursdays from 5-6 p.m. at Willow Pass Park in Concord from Jan. 7 through Feb. 21. Boys and girls 5-12 years of age in all skill levels can participate in Winter Academy getting professional coaching in a non-competitive environment. The year-round U8 Diablo FC Academy also begins its 2013 sessions with the Winter Academy. St. Mary’s College head coach Adam Cooper runs the Winter Academy. For more information on Winter Academy and U8 Soccer Academy visit diablofc.org.

WINTER YOUTH BASKETBALL, VOLLEYBALL LEAGUES OPEN AT CLAYTON GYM Registration for the popular winter youth basketball and volleyball leagues at Clayton Community Gym is now open. Basketball for girls and boys from 4-16 years of age begins Dec. 15 and player evaluation day is Nov. 23. Winter youth volleyball for ages 8-16 runs on Sundays 6-9 p.m. from Nov. 18 through Jan. 6. Registration is being taken online until Nov. 16 for volleyball and Nov. 20 for basketball at alloutsportsleague.com. Call 203-5626 for more info.

CVHS SEEKS 2013 HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame committee is accepting nominations for the 2013 induction class. This will be the

expects the NCS Division II champ will have a real shot at being in that game, making this Friday’s clash with Northgate so important for section playoff seeding and strength of schedule evaluations. The Eagles defense has had its best two games, holding College Park and Concord to one touchdown apiece, in the past two weeks. Even more impressively Clayton Valley held Minuteman star Olito Thompson to

his lowest rushing total in two years with just 35 yards on 10 carries. Thompson was averaging 180 yards a game with his only other game under 100 yards against Northgate. A year ago Thompson shredded the CV defense for a career high five touchdowns. Northgate has won the last two meetings between the schools in close 26-21 and 38-34 clashes. Kickoff Friday is at 7 p.m.

third class for the Hall, which began during the school’s 50th anniversary year in 2008. Individuals can nominate student athletes and coaches for the Hall of Fame. The requirement is that the nominee was a CVHS grad or coach in the years 1960-1999 who was allleague in at least one sport. Requests for a nomination form can be sent via e-mail to Dee Billeter at deebilleter@yahoo.com or Bill Nelson at mommanelson5@yahoo.com. Include a mailing address and an application form will be mailed to you. The induction takes place next May 18 at Centre Concord.

DIABLO FC U9-U11 COMPETITIVE SOCCER TRYOUTS IN JANUARY Diablo FC tryouts for the 2013 season for under 9 through under 11 competitive teams will be held in January. Boys and girls born between Aug. 1, 2002 and July 31, 2006 are invited to try out. Tryouts for boys and girls in the U12-U14 age groups will be in February. There is no charge to try out and players can pre-register today at diablofc.org.

10TH ANNUAL DIABLO FC CRAB FEED, DANCE & AUCTION FEB. 8 The 10th annual Crab Feed and Auction to support Diablo FC youth soccer programs is Friday, Feb. 8, at Centre Concord. Besides the crab feed dinner and fund-raising live and silent auctions, there will be dancing. Tickets are $50. To get more info or to buy tickets visit diablofc.org

Remodeling Windows/Doors Crown

Molding

Overhangs Decks

FREE ESTIMATES

Lawn & Plant Installation Paver Patio & Walkway Retaining Walls Drainage Low Voltage Lighting

Siding

Trim

Clayton Resident

FREE estimates

Specializing in

Bathrooms & Kitchens

925-672-9955 www.nicholslandscape.com Lic. 542812 Fully Insured

Boyce Nichols - Owner Clayton Resident

TipperaryConstruction.com

Tipperary Construction Inc. General Contractor,

license# 783799, B, HIC

October 26, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Sports Unsung heroes, weekend warriors wanted The Pioneer wants to tell your story The Clayton Pioneer is committed to giving the best coverage to everything Clayton. We get plenty of information from local high schools, sports leagues and clubs. What we don’t hear about so often are

from our neighbors who are competing below that radar screen. There are Claytonians who are participating in sports and recreational endeavors that we don’t normally hear about but we’d like to tell their stories too. If you are one of these local athletes – or even if you know of someone who is – please let

us know about it and perhaps we’ll find it something our readers would love to read about. Some area youth are going to schools other than Clayton Valley Charter or participating on a club sport team that we need to hear from. And we always love to report on college athletes from our area.

If you’re running, jumping, hiking, biking, swimming, skydiving, bowling, golfing or participating in any of dozens of other sports and recreational activities let us know.

Page 11

y e l l a V n o Clayt owl

5300 Clayton Rd, Concord, CA 925.689.4631

visit: claytonvalleybowl.com

Digital Thunder Glow Bowling 5 BIG DVD SCREENS Ask about High End Digital Private Parties FRI 4 pm - 6 pm (kids), 10 pm - 1 am, Sat 10 pm - 1 am

Give us a brief rundown and your contact information and we’ll be in touch with you. You can send an email to sports@claytonpioneer.com.

Nifty $1.50 Nights for everyone $1.50 games, Mon. through Thur. 9pm to midnight

Freaky Funday on Sundays

4th annual Save High School Sports 5K Fun Run raises funds, awareness JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation has quickly established a fall tradition in the area with its annual 5K Fun Run to help fund high school sports at the six public schools in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. This year’s edition early this month drew an estimated 1200

ABOUT 1200 RUNNERS TOOK in the fourth annual UMDAF Fun Run at Newhall Park earlier this month. The Clayton Valley Charter High School cross country team had 60 participants in the event including, from left, Connor McMurdo, Brandon Clement and Riley Travers.

PART

runners and walkers. UMDAF president Kevin Hennessy and event chair Jill Lawrence were still finalizing all the details but expected that the final tally would reveal $35,000$45,000 raised to go towards the annual $1.2 million needed to fund all athletic teams at Clayton Valley Charter, Concord, College Park, Mt. Diablo, Northgate and Ygnacio Valley high schools. This was accomplished in a time of economic challenge with Hennessy noting that fewer sponsors came forward this year and those that did provided fewer dollars than in the past. In spite of that he said, “We had one company who requested anonymity step up and sponsor a couple hundred student athletes who could not pay the registration fee.” UMDAF organizers had discussed adding a more competitive 10K run to the 5K fun run/walk this year. That was eventually tabled but is actively being examined for 2012, as is a slight change in the event weekend. This year’s run was won for the first time by a high school

5pm to midnight - $6 cover charge gets you $1-games, shoes, hotdogs, sodas & small beers.

T.G.I.F. Special every Friday 5pm to 7:30pm, $10 per person includes unlimited bowling, shoe rental & 50% off on all appetizers & pitchers of domestic beer

When it comes to investment advice, you need more than pie charts. You need a Financial Advisor who understands your specific life situation, and who can give you the sound guidance you need in an uncertain world. Chris is that Financial

Mike Dunn photo

CLAYTON VALLEY RUNNERS HAVE EMBRACED THE FUN of the annual UMDAF annual 5K run and this year’s group was no different. Wearing their red, white and blue colors from head to toe are, from left, Sarah Carrico, Shannon Hennessy, Shane Mann, Ben Linzey and Kyra Ortiz.

Advisor. With more than 10 years of experience, Chris is ready to work with you in areas including retirement planning, wealth management and all aspects of your financial goals. Meet with him, and take

student, Danny Stalters of Northgate, in 16:29. Former CVHS standout runner Nathanael Litwiller won the first three UMDAF runs with Stalters taking second in 2012. Among local runners Heather Heilberg of CVCHS was third in the girls 15-19 division while Claytonians Megan Tan and Michelle Howisey were

1-2 in women’s 20-29. Clayton also had the second-place runner in men’s 40-49 with CVCHS assistant cross country coach Paul Kommer and in the 50-59 division with Kevin Christensen. For a video of the meet and complete race results visit www.unitedmtdiabloathletics.org.

control of your financial future today.

Chris J. Held Assistant Vice President Financial Advisor 1333 N California Blvd. Ste 133 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 925 930-3815 chris.j.held@ms.com www.ms.com/fa/chris.held

DeLong sisters help Eagles defend DVAL golf tournament title, make Charter School history JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Senior McKenna DeLong and her sophomore sister Rachel Delong finished 1-2 at the Diablo Valley Athletic League golf tournament last week at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord as Clayton Valley Charter High School defended its league title with a 460 aggregate score, 13 shots lower than runner-up Northgate. In the process the team made history of sorts as the first league champion for the school since it became Clayton Valley Charter. The Eagles are headed back to the North Coast Section Division 1 Tournament of Champions meet next Monday in the Sonoma Wine Country at Windsor Golf Course. McKenna DeLong shot 73 to earn medalist honors by three strokes lower than younger sister Rachel DeLong at the DVAL meet. Completing the scoring for the Eagles were Danniele Biala, freshman Rebecca Walsh and sophomore Annie Park. Former Eagle golfer Hailee Espinoza finished fourth at

Are you ecstatic with your current Financial Advisor? Mike Dunn photo

SENIOR MCKENNA DELONG (right) was once again a medalist at the Diablo Valley Athletic League golf tournament last week at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Taking second was sister Rachel DeLong as Clayton Valley Charter High School defended its league title with a 460 score, 13 shots lower than runner-up Northgate.

DVAL shooting 83 for Ygnacio Valley to earn a berth in the NCS qualifying tournament as an individual. Another ex-Clayton Valley athlete Alex Baker was fifth at DVAL for Northgate. Coach Jennifer Moore will be taking her squad to the starstudded NCS Tournament of

Champions meet on Monday facing teams who will shoot under 400 on the tough Windsor course. McKenna DeLong was low scorer for the Eagles at NCS last year when she shot 89. The NCS winning score was 71. Only the Delong sisters among this year’s Eagles squad competed at 2011 NCS.

Introducing our Second-Opinion Service Here’s how it works: • We offer a complimentary, comprehensive one-hour financial overview. • We will discuss your values, your goals and your financial resources. • We will provide an objective assessment of what you have and what you’re doing. • We will tell you what we agree with and what changes we would recommend. • We will not attempt to sell you anything. Guaranteed. • You will learn something — and we’ll have some fun! 1026 Oak Street, Suite 200

Clayton, CA 94517

(925) 672-7700

www.ProsperitasWM.com

We are committed to serving the Clayton Community. Securities offered through Investors Capital Corp. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Investors Capital Advisory, 230 Broadway, Lynnfield, MA (800) 949-1422

Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Sports

Feel better

and fully enjoy life! View our “Getting Started” special on our website

Dig Pink volleyball event is a CV Win Win Win JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Dr. Dan Coflin, D.C.

5444 Clayton Rd., Suite B, Concord

www.ClaytonChiropracticCenter.com

We repair all major appliances, most major brands, and we’re local

35 years Experience Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer Clayton residents Office: (925) 672-2700 Cell: (925) 956-8605 State of California B.E.A.R

license #A44842

http://ApplianceRepairsbyBruce.com

baseball and softball academy

Kali Ball Training for baseball and softball hitting, pitching and speed & agility. Individual, buddy or team training available.

kaliball.com

contact: 925-276-0845

October 26, 2012

When Clayton Valley Charter High School girls volleyball coach Dave Hobson came up with the idea of hosting a Dig Pink fund-raising game during Breast Cancer Awareness Month he could only have dreamed that it would turn out as good as it did. The Eagles selected their Oct. 11 game against visiting Berean Christian to have a Dig Pink event, part of a nationwide effort by the Side-Out Foundation. Side-Out was established in 2004 to unite volleyball players and coaches and to have them work toward the common goal of furthering breast cancer awareness, education and patient services. With the assistance of corporate sponsors 100% of the funds raised at Dig Pink games are allocated to grants for medical research organizations and entities dedicated to providing compassionate support to breast cancer patients and their families. Hobson enlisted Berean to participate in the Dig Pink effort and since the visiting team hadn’t lost to Clayton Valley in seven years they probably thought they would have a road game victory while helping an important cause at the same time. Hobson, his players and their families solicited sponsors, encouraged ticket sales and prepared pink uniform shirts for the occasion. Berean added pink

shoelaces to their blue and gold uniforms. Hobson says, “I wanted to find something that could bring the program together for a united cause while teaching the student-athletes how rewarding it can be to do something for others. It ended up bringing so many parents in as well. We couldn’t have done it without their amazing dedication to this event. They were awesome.” Making the occasion more personal, Hobson explained that, “Each girl and coach (varsity and JV for both Berean and CV) played either in honor of or in memory of someone. Hearing all the names of people that the girls were playing for was very emotional.” The enthusiastic crowd in Dan Della Gymnasium was the biggest of the year and enjoyed special treats at the snack bar and a benefit raffle. Oh, and by the way, for the first time in seven years the Eagles defeated Berean. The home team took three straight sets 25-20, 25-22, 26-24. In the first match of the Diablo Valley Athletic League season last month Berean took a four-set victory over CVCHS. Catalina Buenrostro led the way with nine aces, 20 assists and seven digs while Megan Elms had 13 digs and three aces. Kayla Taylor contributed nine kills and three blocks. Hobson summed up the evening, “I just want to start off by thanking everyone that helped make the night such a success.

Mayor, from page 1 worked hand-in-hand with our local schools on a program called, “Do The Right Thing.” The character traits for this program are Responsibility, Compassion, Self-Discipline, Honesty, Respect and Integrity. It has been my honor as Mayor of Clayton to present certificates to students exemplifying these traits. See Around Town for the latest recognitions.

It could be a virus, or it could just need a tune-up.

FINANCES LOOK GOOD After the final unaudited review of the City’s fiscal budget for 2011-2012, excess funds were identified in the amount of $131,796. Funds received from the redistribution of the now defunct Redevelopment Agency plus other windfalls were not expected and exceeded any unexpected deficits or shortfalls. These funds will be placed in our Trust and Agency Fund for future use. Our proposed budget for 2012-2013 showed a deficit of $199,725. This potential shortage could be reduced by the $131,796 excess from the 20112012 budget. This would then leave a shortage of $67,929. Looking into my crystal ball, it is my hope we will receive additional funds from the Redevelop-

Prevent problems caused by viruses and spyware with regular proactive maintenance.

SPORTS SOAR... I attended the United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation’s (UMDAF) annual 5K run fundraiser held at Newhall Park. All the high schools in the district participated. Without this foundation and the financial support it receives from the community, high school sports would have ceased. What a tragedy this would have been. Clayton Valley Charter High School Athletics Director Greg Fister sent me an email about how our teams are doing this year. In my 38 years in Clayton, I believe this is the best our school has fared in a long time. I want to pass on to you statements Mr. Fister made that I feel will give you the same warm feeling I had when I read them. Mr. Fister wrote, “The environment we have created this fall sports season at CVCHS is magnetic. Our athletes have bought into the vision of excellence in academics and in the athletic arena. The example our student athletes

Having so many people step up for such a worthy cause makes me proud to know you all. This was the most gratifying experience in my six years of coaching at Clayton Valley. Having so many people united and focused on this event was incredible. I’m really in awe of the extreme effort that went into this.“ The final tally wasn’t available but Hobson says, “It looks like we raised over $1,900 to donate towards helping fund breast cancer research. We were aiming high and going for $1,000. We ended up getting

nearly double that!” Recognizing a good thing when he sees it, Hobson is already planning on making Dig Pink an annual event. The coach, a school alumnus himself, sported a pink shirt, socks and headband to show support for his team and the cause. He concluded his impressions by saying, “I’m proud to be a part of the girls volleyball program. Watching so many wonderful things happening at our school these days has been inspiring. I’m happy we could be a part of that positive energy and direction.”

are setting for the winter and spring sports teams is wonderful. All sports teams are flourishing and there is so much momentum at CVCHS it would be a shame if anyone missed out on what we have going on.” Fister went on to state, “The communities of Clayton and Concord have been amazing in support of Clayton Valley Charter High School. What we have here is something special that transcends future generations. This is a legacy in the making and you can choose to be a part of it.”

Carpet,

…SO DOES MUSIC To top this off, this past weekend, the Clayton Valley Charter High School Marching Band made their first impact in some of the Clayton neighborhoods. The band ended their march in The Grove park before a crowd of cheering parents and Clayton residents. Seeing how our community embraced them is a feeling I won’t soon forget. I would like to close this column with a quote. “If you are to be, you must begin by assuming responsibility. You alone are responsible for every moment of your life, for every one of your acts.”– Antoine De Saint Exupery. Send your E-mails and comments to Councilmangeller@aol.com.

from page 9 WOOL VS. SYNTHETIC The main difference between wool and synthetic carpeting is the cost. Wool can cost twice as much as synthetic, if not more, per square yard. There is a different way of cleaning wool carpeting, but once you get into your cleaning rhythm, it’s no different than the required time to clean synthetic. Both types of carpets have the same range of color, pattern and cut. To begin your carpet search, start looking around. Visit the big box stores as well as the smaller, boutique, family-run businesses to learn about carpeting, see the colors and styles, and start budgeting. And by all means, before purchasing, make sure you take off your shoes and actually test the carpet with your feet. Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.

Irfan and crew are back at this location. Serving the community since 1991.

TOTAL DESKTOP CARE & SERVER WATCH Low cost, fixed fee services that monitor & maintain your network Call Mark 925.672.6029 or to minimize info@netsolutions-ca.com IT problems

ment Agency redistribution on an annual basis. With the economy beginning to improve, the financial picture for Clayton is looking brighter in the coming years.

Mike Dunn photo

NOT TO BE OUTDONE BY HIS PLAYERS, Clayton Valley Charter High School girls volleyball coach Dave Hobson came outfitted in pink shirt, socks and headband to show his support for the cause and his team at the recent Dig Pink benefit volleyball game. His wife, Clayton Valley Hall of Fame athlete and former CVHS volleyball coach Lisa Hobson (left) is amused by the getup.

686-1000

Oil change & tire rotation

FREE

.95 *

(5 qts.) and tire rotation

(*Most cars)

4746 Clayton Road (next to Jack in the Box)

Specializing in all your Painting Needs Exterior *Interior *Pressure Washing Cabinets

Smog Check

*Wood Staining/ Treatments* Contact us for a free quote

$20 OFF

17 years experience Family owned and operated, CLAYTON RESIDENT

Brake inspection, Check Engine Light Scan

ClaytonAutoSer viceConcord.com

10% off when you mention the Pioneer Phone 925.682.2202

Copapainting.com

Lic #822946

October 26, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Letter to the Editor

Please let our advertisers know you saw them in the Clayton Pioneer

Dogs need to face their fears – carefully

Suffer not the animals At the recent Oktoberfest, I heard this horrible yelp. Some guy stepped on a dog’s back, while the dog was resting. Reasonable people know most dogs don’t want to be at crowded events. It’s easy to discern they are hot, probably uncomfortable, with their pads subjected to sun-baked pavement. Anxieties are high for dogs with the combination of having to walk among crowds, amplified noises, being overheated, maybe thirsty, and known to be food-driven, their excitement surely heightens from aromas of the food court. hese circumstances can lead to dog fights with other dogs of the same mindset, or liability for the City and CBCA, if temptation overcomes a dog to grab food from a child’s hand, potentially leading to a sad ending for the animal. For people afraid of dogs, imagine their fear when walking by a pit bull or other aggressive breed, which, unfortunately, are seen at Clayton’s events. Conversely, pooches small enough to be cradled, don’t seem problematic. I hope the city will consider the welfare of the animals and prohibit them, with the exception of seeing-eye dogs, from Oktoberfest and the Art & Wine Festival. The money will still come in; sensible people will not protest these events, but will choose the interests of their beloved pets, as I do, and leave them home under a shade tree. - Patty Nelson

Page 13

SUE SKIFF

PET PALS Chronic fear in a dog is something that needs to be addressed for the sake of the dog’s mental health. Dogs can have fears of certain types of people, other dogs, loud noises, riding in a car, a raised hand, seemingly innocuous objects, specific places . . . the list goes on. Many people would advocate simply forcing these scared dogs to confront their fears, so that they can see that there really isn’t anything to be afraid of. To me, this is a recipe for disaster. Exposing your dog to whatever it’s afraid of is most likely going to increase your dog’s fear, not decrease it. Each time your dog is exposed to something that it is afraid of, it gets a chance to practice being fearful. And, as you know, “practice makes perfect.” Each time that your dog practices being fearful, its fear becomes strengthened. So eventually, your dog will be perfect at being afraid. However, the idea of exposure to the fear stimulus, in and of itself, is a good one.

The trick is to expose your dog to the fear stimulus in such a way that it is nonthreatening; and to reinforce your dog for being calm during the exposure. In this way, you can change your dog’s perception of the fearful stimulus from a negative perception to a positive one. How is this accomplished? Let’s take a dog that is fearful of fireworks. Get a recording of fireworks or something that sounds like fireworks. Then, play this recording, at such a low volume that your dog does not react to it, whenever you are providing your dog with something that it likes. You need to play it when you feed your dog, while you play with your dog, while you are giving your dog attention, and while you prepare to take your dog for a walk. The idea is to get your dog to associate the sound with things that are pleasurable. Gradually, and I do mean gradually, increase the volume when you play the recording. If, at any time, you see that your dog is showing fear when you play the recording, you need to turn it off, wait for your dog to calm down,

Amy and Mimosa are ARF’s Adoption Stars

and then try again at a much lower volume. Hopefully, you can increase the volume gradually enough to never see a fear reaction in your dog, until you are playing it at full volume, and your dog doesn’t react at all. VISUAL FEARS Most other fears in dogs are to visual stimuli. So instead of starting at a low volume and increasing it, you are going to use distance. Bring your dog close to an object that causes a fear response, but far enough away to not evoke that response. Give your dog lots of positives for being calm. Do this a few times, then move one step closer, and repeat the process. Gradually decrease the distance, making everything positive, as long as your dog remains calm. If your dog gets scared at any point, you need to get your dog away from the stimulus, and wait for it to calm down, before trying again at a distance that the dog can handle. If you address each fear in a systematic, positive way, as described above, you can gradually alleviate each and every chronic fear that your dog has. Your dog’s confidence will increase, and you will be able to expose your dog to a lot more new things. Sue Skiff is the author of “How to Have a Well-Behaved Dog,” and the owner/operator of Silver Lining Pet Services, a company which provides dog training and pet sitting services. Learn more at www.silverliningdogtrain.com or www.silverliningpetsitting.com. Email her at information@silverliningdogtrain.com

Open 7 days a week

10 Off

our Spooktakular Swedish Spicy Pumpkin 1-Hour MASSAGE

10 Off

Spicy Pumpkin Facial Peel

Call 925-680-7792 5439 E Clayton Rd., Clayton

www.thebellamiadayspa.com

“ Let Us Light Up Your Life” Residential

Commercial

Industrial

Serving Contra Costa since 1991 More than 35 years experience

All Work Done by Owner Bonded & Insured Lic.#C10-631523

Professional Installation of:

Ceiling Fans, Recessed & Track Lighting Kitchen or Bath Remodel Exterior/Security/Landscape Lighting Electrical Service Upgrade Complete Home Wiring - Old & New Spa Installation

www.BurkinElectric.net

Pittsburg Pet Resort,

home of

Extraordinary Care for your Pet

Exotic Pets Welcome!

James Burkin Sole Proprietor

FREE pickup & delivery Now Open Sundays, 10-5 Fully staffed & monitored 24/7

10% off Boarding & Grooming services with this ad Josie Van Fleet, Owner and Operator (925) 432-PETS (7387) 671 Willow Pass Road #6, Pittsburg

PetSuitesInn.com

Fall Lawn Restoration Special your Schedule ent today appointm

MIMOSA

AMY

Amy is a bright, social girl who needs an adopter who can provide her with activities where she can be the center of attention! While Amy can be a bit sensitive, she loves training and will likely be the star of her training class. Her new adopter is encouraged to provide Amy with the socialization, training, and environment she’ll need to remain confident and comfortable. A Basic Manners training class is highly recommended for Amy and her new adopter. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60%

off one 7-week dog training session. Mimosa is a darling little girl who is looking for a quiet/calm home. She loves receiving gentle pets and needs patient adopters who will give her time to adjust to a new family. The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 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.

Additional Services • Dethatching • Fertilization • Weed control • Overseeding Commercial & Residential

*Up to 2k sq. ft., above 2k sq. ft. is additional

Jared@DiabloLawnScape.com License # 958849

Richard A. Littorno LITTORNO LAW GROUP Assisted over 4,000 Families since 1979

Legal Services:

Living Trusts and Wills Tax & Estate Planning Probate & Trust Administration & Litigation Asset Protection Strategies Medi-Cal & VA Benefit Planning VA Accredited Attorney, Member of Academy of VA Pension Planners

Walnut Creek Office:

Pittsburg Office:

3100 Oak Road, #300 Walnut Creek CA 94597 Phone: (925) 937-4211 Richard@LittornoLaw.com

2211 Railroad Ave. Pittsburg CA 94565 Phone: (925) 432-4211 www.LittornoLaw.com

Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 26, 2012

Steffan Smith Construction

Installations – Repairs Toilets Faucets Water heaters Garbage disposals Clogged drains

Residential Remodeling and Renovation Specializing in Kitchens and Bathrooms

Your remodeling job is our priority from start to finish " Award rvation e s rts e A r P is " th ner for in w ! 2 n 1 e 20 ts kitch & Craf

Belfast Plumbing

General contractor with 25 years hands-on experience Clayton resident

Call for free estimate or advice (925) 914-0497 www.steffansmithconstruction.com

Credit Cards accepted: Visa, MasterCard, Discover

(925) 457-5423

www.belfastplumbing.com

License #B801149

License. 906211

Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. OCT. 31 FOR THE NOV. 9 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

IN CLAYTON Oct. 27 Farmers’ Market 8 a.m. – noon, Saturdays, Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown, pcfma.com/clayton. Nov. 4 Vet Clinic Free rabies shots for dogs. $9 rabies shots for cats. Other vaccines and nonemergency care available for pets. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Rodie’s Feed and Pet Supply, 8863 Marsh Creek Rd., Clayton. 672-4600.

HALLOWEEN Oct. 26, 27, 31 Cursi House of Screams Halloween horror. Fri. and Sat. 7:30 – 10 p.m. Halloween 7 – 9:30 p.m. 5625 Lewis Way, Concord. $1. cursihouseofscreams.com. Oct. 28 Pet Costume Contest Pictures and prizes. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Rodie’s Feed and Pet Supply, 8863 Marsh Creek Rd., Clayton. 672-4600. Oct. 31 Ghost Walk Walking tour of local downtown haunted folklore sites. Narrated by Richard Taylor. Rain or shine. Bring flashlight and umbrella, if needed; costumes optional. Starts at 8 p.m. from Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Free.

EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Thru Nov. 4 “She Stoops to Conquer” Oliver Goldsmith’s comedy of miscommunication and mistaken identities. Cue Productions Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. Oct. 12: $25 opening night gala. $10-$20. brownpapertickets.com. Thru Nov. 10 “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Brilliant celebration of music, color and words. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40-49. ccmt.org. Thru Nov. 17 “The Underpants” From the mind of Steve Martin comes a wild and crazy satire. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$53. centerrep.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 11 “Parts of the Whole” Concert by Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 16 - 17 “A Swingin’ Holiday” 19th season of Diablo Ballet begins with Latin flare and holiday cheer. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $22$52. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 18 Concert Diablo Symphony Orchestra with floutist Annie Wu. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

FUNDRAISERS Thru Nov. 18 Coat Drive Clayton Community Church and CVCHS Public Service Academy are collecting winter wear at the church to give to families in need in the Bay Area. 6055 Main St., Clayton. Contact Jayleen at coatdrive2012@gmail.com. Oct. 26 Katie’s Dream Dinner, live music, auction to raise funds for Katie Grace Groebner’s heart and lung transplant. 6:30 – 11 p.m. Centre Concord, 5294 Clayton Road, Concord. $100. cotaforkatiegraceg.com. Oct. 26-28 Fall and Holiday Boutique Auction Friday. Crafts and food items Saturday and Sunday. Sales benefit St. Bonaventure Food Pantry. Fri. 6 – 8 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sun. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. St. Bonaventure Hall, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Free admission. For more information, contact Linda at manzeck@sbcglobal.net. Nov. 2 - 3 Santa’s Smokestack Boutique Local crafters selling handmade items. Sponsored by Cowell Homeowners’ Association. Fri. 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Walnut Country Clubhouse (The Crossings), 4465 South Larwin Ave., Concord. Free admission. No strollers. For more information, call Lani Pryor 672-7097.

Oct. 26 “A Real Man” Solo stage show written and performed by Mike Guido about his struggle and acceptance as he deals with his daughter’s severe autism. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 3 Stampede One-mile and three-mile run/walk to benefit Mount Diablo Elementary School. Activities, live music and food available after the walk. 9 a.m. MDES, 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton. $15. Registration required: mtdiabloelementary.mdusd.org. For more information, contact Rhonda Caldwell rhonda.cas@comcast.net.

Oct. 27 Lung Health Fair Vital information about lung health. Time for questions and free screenings. 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. John Muir Medical Center, 2540 East St., Concord. Register at johnmuirhealth.com/classes or call 9474447.

Nov. 10 Auction Old West two-bit auction, dessert raffle, prizes. 6 p.m. Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, Pleasant Hill. $50. Proceeds benefit Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista programs. Respond by Nov. 5 to Jan Townsend at 827-1050.

Oct. 27 Sierra Guitar Performance by Thibault Cauvin. 7:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469. Oct. 30 Hike Leader Workshop Learn about leading hikes in the parks and around Mount Diablo. 6 – 8 p.m. Save Mount Diablo, 1901 Olympic Blvd., Suite 320, Walnut Creek. Response required to George: gphillips@savemountdiablo.org or 947-3535. Nov. 1 – 18 “Status Update” A comedy with music about Internet addiction for the curious and the curiouser. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25-$35. centerrep.org. 943-7469. Nov. 2 – 17 “All in the Timing” Evening of comedy combining wit, intellect, satire and just plain fun. Diablo Actors’ Ensemble, 1345 Locust St., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. diabloactors.com. Nov. 4 Contra Costa Wind Symphony Celebrate election time and Veteran’s Day with an evening of patriotic music and vocal selections from Broadway. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 11 Concert Veteran’s Day Civic Remembrance Concert by the Walnut Creek Concert Band. 11 a.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Free. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

AT THE LIBRARY

Nov. 4, 7 Book Discussions Join discussions of 2012 Clayton Reads book, “One Amazing Thing.” Moderated by Karen Hansen-Smith. Nov. 4 at 2 p.m. Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. Nov. 15 Tell Your Own Story Make your own picture book for children ages 4 – 9. Registration required. 673-0659.

GOVERNMENT 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group Meets 6 p.m. fourth Wednesday of the month, Montecito, 4756 Clayton Road, Concord. 692-5838. Claycord 4-H Meets 6:45 p.m. second Tuesday of the month, Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Road, Concord. Clayton Business and Community Association Meets 6:30 p.m. last Thursday of the month except holidays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Call Sue at 672-2272. Clayton Valley Garden Club Meets 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, February through November. Nov. 14 speaker: Kerri Kemp Gardner from the Kellogg Company. Topic: It starts with the soil. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. claytonvalleygardenclub.org. Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. second Tuesday of the month except July and August, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. 672-9448. Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association Meets 6 p.m. first Saturday of the month for a potluck. Open to members and guests. CMDTRA, 1600 Trail Ride Road, Clayton. cmdtra.org or cmdtra@yahoo.com. Contra Costa Chess Club Meets 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck’s, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. ccchess.com or contact Mike at 639-1987. Creekside Artists Guild Meets 7-8:30 p.m. second Wed., Library Story Room, 6125 Clayton Road. All artforms and emerging/experienced artists welcome. Contact Arlene at nielsenjanc@aol.com, creeksideartists.org or call 673-9777. Diablo Valley Democratic Club Meets 7-9 p.m. third Wed. of the month, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Rd., Walnut Creek. dvdems.org, 946-0469.

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

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

Wednesdays Book Buddies A volunteer will read stories for children 3 and older. 1-2 p.m.

MOMS Club of Concord/Clayton Meeting dates vary. 331-0674, concordclaytonmomsclub@hotmail.com or concordclaytonmomsclub.webs.com.

Tuesdays thru Nov. 27 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. 11 a.m.

Oakhurst Business Network Meets 5 – 7 p.m. first Thursday of the month for social hour. Hosted hors d’oeuvres, cash bar. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Dr., Clayton. oakhurstcc.com.

Thursdays thru Nov. 15 Picture Book Time Story time for 3 to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. 11 a.m. Thru Nov. 6 Paws to Read Encourage children to read. Children in grades 1 – 5 read out loud to a dog. Sign up for maximum of four sessions. 4 p.m. or 4:35 p.m. Registration required.

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. claytonvalleyrotary.org or 566-8166. Scrabble Club Meets 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. second and fourth Saturdays of the month, Carl’s Jr. Restaurant, 1530 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. All ages and skill levels welcome. $3. scrabble-assoc.com or call Mike at 639-1987.

Thru Nov. 15 Clayton Reads While supplies last, pick up “One Amazing Thing” by Chitra Divakaruni. Read and pass along to another reader or back to the library.

Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista Meets 12:15 p.m. second, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month, September-June, Sizzler, 1353 Willow Pass Road, Concord. Contact Nicole at 692-2224.

Nov. 3 Ayurveda Diet Dietitian Chaitali Rede discusses integrating this age old nutrition wisdom from India into American lifestyle. 1 p.m.

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

Nov. 3 Yoga with Alandi Instructor Alandi Stec gives introduction to yoga and benefits. Practice for mixed levels. Bring yoga mat and loose clothing. 10:15 a.m.

Ygnacio Valley Republican Women Meets third Wednesday of the month, except June, July, August. 10 a.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. Reservations required. $25. Call Barbara Allen at 672-5061.

October 26, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 15

Chaparral Loop Trail is a jewel in Black Diamond Preserve

KEVIN PARKER

HIKER’S HAVEN What was once five thriving mining towns employing more than 900 miners in the late 1850s has been transformed into a 6,096-acre park better known as the present day Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. From the first point of entry into the park, obvious signs of old mine shafts, tailings, chambers and tunnels provide clues of an area rich in mining history. Abundant picnic areas, large shade trees, drinking water and even restrooms are located in

Kevin Parker

NOWHERE ARE CALIFORNIA’S GOLDEN HILLS MORE SPECTACULAR than in the Black Diamond Regional Preserve where you can hike through more than 150 years of local history and around the entrance of the park. Start the 3.5 mile hike at the staging area off Somersville Road in Antioch. Immediately pick up the Chaparral Loop Trail which begins as a gravel road, but quickly transforms into a well-used single-track trail that has worn a clear cut path over time into the sandstone rocks

found all around Black Diamond. Prepare for an abrupt elevation gain and pay special attention to your footing on this technical and somewhat demanding trail. Chaparral Loop Trail meets up with Ridge Trail and tops out, opening up views of the surrounding hillsides that, much to my surprise, had a lot of sand-

Club News

For more information on this hike or other outdoor experiences, contact Kevin at hikershaven@claytonpioneer.com.

STEVE LANE Special to the Pioneer

WIL BARNES, who lives in Clayton with daughter Julie Pierce, received a Rotary International’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

late 1990s, the Barnes family moved to Oregon. During his service, Wil generously supported The Rotary Foundation both with his time and money. He is a member of the Paul Harris Society, a major donor to Rotary, and currently is a Paul Harris Fellow with over $15,000 contributed. For more information on Concord Rotary, call 9307133 or go to www.concordcarotary.org.

Woman’s Club holds Holiday Boutique crafts and bake sale Shoppers can get a jump on the holidays by shopping at the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Annual Holiday Boutique Crafts and Bake Sale from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 17 and 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 18 at the Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. Kathleen Horvath, event chair, says there will be handmade crafts, baby and household items and holiday décor. The bake sale will feature candy, jams, breads, cookies and brownies. Proceeds benefit the club’s local charities and scholarships. Baked goods are also for sale at the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Boutique in November.

area, for a hike that takes about an hour and a half. Or you can take a quick trip up Lower Chaparral and spin yourself back into the trail maze as you make your way home – the long way. I stayed the course when it came to my trail routing, but the amazing thing about this area in particular is the many side trails to park highlights. Eureka Slope, Hazel Atlas Portal, Powder Magazine and Stope can all be explored within minutes of the trail. Rose Cemetery is nearby and offers the most unusual history of this park. This area of Black Diamond can be accessed from the Black Diamond trailhead on Clayton Rd. It does, however, add several miles and a few hundred feet of elevation – good for a long hike in cool weather. For more information visit www.ebparks.org. No fees were required during my visit. There are maps at the trailhead.

Budding effort pays off for CV Garden Club

Wil Barnes honored by Rotary The Rotary Club of Concord, on behalf of Rotary International, offers a huge salute and farewell to one of its cherished, distinguished members, Wilfred “Wil” Barnes. Barnes was honored this summer with a Lifetime Achievement and Membership Award for his exceptional service to Rotary International and the three clubs he was an active member in before retiring from the third, the Rotary Club of Concord. Barnes began his nearly half-century of Rotary service in 1966. He exemplifies what it truly means to be a Rotarian, seamlessly combining scholarly endeavors, family, faith, hard work, role model leadership and a sincere desire to help people, no matter how they came into his life. Barnes grew up in Montana, graduated in 1941 from Billings High School and served his country during WWII as a meteorologist and communications specialist in the Army Air Force with specialist training at Yale, Harvard and MIT. He went on to earn his PhD in mathematics, got married and had two daughters. Barnes joined the faculty at Washington State University until 1966 when he accepted a position at Iowa State University as head of the math department and joined his first Rotary Club. In the

stone rock exposure. The colors of rock were brilliant as a late October afternoon sun provided a fantastic picture show and some warmth. Continue on Chaparral Loop as you gradually descend into shade, dense sage and even Manzanita, all of which provide excellent trail scenery. The section of trail leading to the foot-

bridge includes some of the most scenic and solitary in this park. With no particular place to go, I chose Manhattan Canyon Trail and continued in an uphill direction until I reached Black Diamond Trail. That trail meanders through some excellent terrain as I made my way to the lower section of Manhattan Canyon. Exposed trail, technical and sandy at times, all provided the backdrop for the descent back to the staging area far below. This trail twists and turns, drops through natural obstacles with some sections of steps to help with navigation. Dense brush and panoramic views traded shifts until I reached the footbridge intersection. You can continue via Manhattan Canyon Trail or the final section of Chaparral Loop Trail. Both offer equal amounts of shade, challenging trails, even some cool spots to enjoy the view. Chaparral Loop will take you directly back to the staging

For more information, go to claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

Thanks to a community-wide effort nurtured by the Clayton Valley Garden Club, Daffodil Hill will be blooming again next spring. On Saturday, Oct. 13, 14 CVGC members, along with the supervision and “groundbreaking” help (quite literally) of Dan Johnston, a member of the city maintenance staff, planted nearly 500 daffodil bulbs around the Clayton monument sign/planter on Daffodil Hill. Clayton’s Daffodil Hill history dates back to the fall of 2000,

Garden Club members Peggy Arundell, Hailey Callaghan, Carin Kaplan, Chris Callaghan, Ingela Nielsen, Robb Kingsbury, Rory Richmond, Jan Rubiales, Patty Remoy and city maintenance crew member, Dan Johnston.

possibly even earlier, when several CVGC members approached the City of Clayton about the possibility of a mass-planting of daffodils (similar to that of “Daffodil Hill” in Volcano CA), in a high-profile area that would be seen and appreciated by the

Clayton community, its visitors and passers-by. The site at the corner of Marsh Creek Road and Clayton Road was offered to CVGC. That fall the CVGC dug into

See Budding, page 18

Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 26, 2012

Serving Northern California for Over 30 Years

Firewood

J. Designs

provides interior design services for projects of varying square footages, styles and budgets that reflect your personal style, your family’s needs, and the special character of your home. This holiday season, treat your home to the gifts of functional and practical design, with a sprinkling of stylish whimsy.

Specializing in Large Hazardous Trees Crane Service Tree & Stump Removal Pruning/Cabling

Waraner Bros. Tree Service was established in 1980 by Ed Waraner and has been serving the greater Northern California region for over 30 years. Ed is a certified arborist and licensed contractor. He completes each job to the highest standards. Waraner Bros. lives up to its motto: “A Shade Better.”

Ed Waraner FREE ESTIMATES

8861 Marsh Creek Rd, Clayton Bonded and Fully Insured

Residential Commercial

(925)831-2323 Cell:

(925) 250-0335

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE CCC Certified Fire abatement

Major Credit Cards Accepted

Lic. #642272 Certified Arborist WE-3386A

www.waranerbrostree.com

Pumpkins are for more than making funny faces DEBRA J. MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market

The Clayton Farmers Market closes its season this Saturday so don’t miss your chance to grab a pumpkin for Halloween. Choose a nice big one to

HOME SHOW Oakhurst Country Club

THURSDAY, NOV. 1 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Featuring fabulous ideas to spruce up your home for the holiday season! Learn from experts and meet interior designers, décor specialists, see beautiful tablescapes, holiday décor, menu presentation and so much more. Sample delicious hors d’oeuvres and taste exquisite wines (holiday case discounts will be available). COMPLIMENTARY TO ATTEND.

Questions? Contact our Private Events Office 925.672.9737 ext. 217 OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB | 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton, CA

carve into a jack o’ lantern or select smaller sugar pie pumpkins for cooking. Almost any kind of small pumpkin can be used for cooking, but ask your farmer what cooks the best. Small and sweet, with dark orange-colored flesh, the sugar pie pumpkin is perfect for pies, soups, muffins and breads. A medium-sized (4-pound) sugar pumpkin should yield around 11/2 cups of mashed pumpkin. This purée can be used in all your recipes calling for canned pumpkin.

ARE

BAKE AND PURÉE FRESH PUMPKIN Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the pumpkins in half and clean out the seeds and string. Cover a baking sheet with tin foil. Brush a little melted butter on the cut edges of the pumpkin. Place the sides cut side

YOU...

…in need of fresh ideas for your home decor? …thinking now is the time for new paint colors, inside and out, before your family arrives for Thanksgiving? …wanting to update your furniture and window treatments in your living room before your holiday party? …ready to move forward with your interior design projects? Call J. Designs to get started!

JENNIFER S. LEISCHER INTERIOR DESIGN 925.270.9955 WWW.J-DESIGNS.COM

down on the cookie sheet. Cook for about one hour or until the pumpkin is soft. Cool. Remove the pumpkin skin. Cut into pieces and put through a food processor until the mixture is smooth. Don’t toss those pumpkin seeds. Roast them and season them for a healthy, vitaminrich snack. ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS 2 cups pumpkin seeds 3 to 4 teaspoons melted butter or oil Salt to taste (try seasoned salt, garlic salt, or other herb blends for a different taste) Preheat oven to 300°F. Clean seeds. It’s ok to leave a little of the pulp or string on the seeds but remove the excess. Toss the pumpkin seeds with melted butter or oil and the seasonings. Spread to a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly golden brown. Drain on paper towels. The Clayton Farmers’ Market closes for the season on Saturday, Oct. 27, but the Concord market runs year around in Todos Santos Plaza every Tuesday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

October 26, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 17

Theatre Review

An amazing ‘Joseph’ puts a new spin on an old favorite TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Contra Costa Musical Theatre has hit it out of the park with its revival of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at the Lesher Theatre. Be forewarned: This is not your father’s Joseph. Director Jennifer Perry and Musical Director Sean Kana put new energy and a completely different spin on this old favorite with words and music by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Told entirely in song, this show is about music, lots of music; all kinds of music – rock, country, calypso – all delivered by extraordinary singers and musicians who clearly love every minute of what they’re doing – and make us love it, too. The show loosely follows the biblical story from Genesis. Joseph, the 12th son of Jacob, is clearly his father’s favorite and seems destined to become ruler.

Resentful of their father’s attention and jealous of the “coat of many colors” bestowed on Joseph by his adoring father, the brothers sell Joseph into slavery and tell Jacob his favorite son is dead. Joseph, a real looker, is blessed with the gift of prophesy – he can interpret dreams. His extraordinary looks and his gift get him both into and out of hot water. First, he is promoted to head servant in the wealthy Potiphar’s household. But then, just as life i s

looking pretty good, Potiphar’s slutty wife takes a liking to the young man. She makes a pass and when hubby finds out, he throws Joseph in the clink. There Joseph meets up with two former servants of the Pharaoh of Egypt. They have been having some pretty weird dreams. They tell Joseph and he predicts seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. Joseph’s prediction makes its way to the Pharaoh who, armed with the knowledge, prepares well. The grateful ruler promotes Joseph to second in command. And, of course, what goes around comes around. Back home, the famine has the brothers starving and facing certain doom. Hoping for food and relief, they head to Egypt where they run into their successful brother who takes pity on them and returns to Jacob and the family farm. Ok, so there are the basics. Now, forget about plot and logic. When the lights come up, put your expectations aside and just go with the fun, even when

style and context seem at loggerheads. Like when the brothers tell Jacob about the death of his favorite son – the news is delivered hoedown-style in a kneeslapping “One More Angel in Heaven.” “Heehaw? Whaaa-aat?” you think. But it’s funny as heck and really darn good country. And later, when Vince Perry as the Pharaoh appears in rhinestone bellbottoms to sing “Song of the Pharaoh,” Perry’s deep baritone and gyrating hips bring Elvis right back into the building. It makes no sense, but it works. And, it’s hysterical. As the narrator, Estelle Fernandez has a stunning voice and makes a real connection with the role. Her full engagement with all the characters and with the story makes it possible to believe the preposterous – or want to anyway. The characters are all well defined and the entire cast is strong. But the show is, after all, about Joseph. And Tim Homsley in the title role is not just cute, adorable and funny; he is an extraordinary performer. When he sings of dreaming big and tells us “Any Dream Will

Do,” he claims Joseph for his own – and we forget all about Donny Osmond. “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” plays at the

Lovable Mickey heads up cast of favorites in “Disney on Ice” If you missed “Disney on Ice” at the Oracle Arena in Oakland last week, you have two more chances to catch the show in San Jose or Sacramento. Join the celebration as 65 of Disney’s unforgettable characters from 18 beloved stories come to life in “Disney On Ice” celebrates “100 Years of Magic!” There are no kids too young or grownups so old that they can’t all smile at the antics of the one and only Mickey Mouse, the irresistible Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio and all the Disney

St. John’s Parish presents

“Ringing in Christmas”

Unmentionable laughs in new Steve Martin comedy From the mind of Steve Martin, the renowned comic actor and author of “Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” comes “The Underpants,” a wild and crazy satire performed by Center REPertory Company in Walnut Creek. Martin’s comedic story reflects on our fascination with fame, our reliance on gender roles and our obsession with sex. Louise and Theo’s conservative existence

is shattered when Louise’s bloomers fall down in public. When two admirers show up to rent a room and woo her in secret, Louise discovers that her wardrobe malfunction has made her the center of attention in a story bursting at the seams with surprise, scandal and sexy underwear. “The Underpants” runs Oct. 19 through Nov. 17 at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut

Book Review

‘Boxcar’ beginning is a new hit in children’s lit SUNNY SOLOMON FOR THE BOOKS Do you remember Gertrude Chandler Warner’s book “The Boxcar Children?” Remembering it because you bought it for your kids or grandkids doesn’t count. Although initially published in 1924, it was the wildly popular 1942 edition I remember reading in Miss Bennett’s third grade classroom at Joaquin Miller School in Oakland. How wickedly wonderful to think guilt-free of living on your own with no parents. That book, with its silhouette illustrations by L. Kate Deal, is embedded in my memory. When offered the chance to review the prequel, “The Boxcar Children Beginning” (Albert Whitman & Company) I jumped at it, especially because its author is Newbery Medal winner Patricia MacLachlan (“Sarah, Plain and Tall.”) MacLachlan is a master at chapter books for early readers. But does the book need a prequel? The subject of prequels runs hot and heavy with readers who either love knowing how this or that protagonist came by their

traits, or those who’d just as soon the original be left alone. “Beginning” is a stand-alone tale, successfully describing the Aldens’ farm life in rural Connecticut. The reader learns, from a series of random events occurring on the farm, how the children – Henry, Jessie, Violet and Benny – are almost hardwired to respond imaginatively and with an innate sense of cooperation; so that when they are told of their parents’ death in an automobile accident, the idea of them surviving on their own is entirely believable. The enthusiasm of young readers for the original book was singularly different from that of their parents, teachers and librarians. Gertrude Warner insisted that the Alden children’s ability to survive on their own was exactly the reason young readers loved the story, although of great concern to parents and teachers. MacLachlan’s prequel is the perfect balm for such concerns. I have a feeling that kids couldn’t care less about why Henry, Jessie, Violet and Benny are able to live without parents, and it’s really adults who need the reassurance that parents are, in fact, necessary, at least as teachers and models of resourcefulness, kindness and self-confidence. MacLachlan did her home-

work in writing a tale that carefully foreshadows events and responses to those events in the original story. Children will find MacLachlan’s story believable and a strong enticement to find out what happens to these children when they set off on their own rather than wait to see if they will be sent to an orphanage. Violet’s ability to sew, Benny’s wish for a dog, Jessie’s gift for list-making and Henry’s resourcefulness are all imaginatively described in “Beginning.” Many of the foreshadowing events in “Beginning” revolve around a family whose car breaks down in a snowdrift and who are welcomed into the Alden household until the car can be repaired. I was puzzled by the author’s decision to give the family an ethnic identity. Had the story been set anywhere beside rural Connecticut, it would not have appeared so contrived; as if remaking history to look more racially inclusive than it really was. But this small intrusion of modern sensibilities is a very minor complaint about an otherwise welcome addition to children’s literature. Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’

Lesher Center through Nov. 10. For show times and ticket information, call the box office at (925) 943SHOW or go online to LesherArtsCenter.org.

Princesses. Exciting moments from “The Lion King,” “Mulan,” Disney/Pixar’s “Finding Nemo,” “The Incredibles,” and “Toy Story” films come together in a skating spectacular filled with magical Disney moments you’ll remember forever. “Disney on Ice” will be at the HP Pavilion in San Jose through Oct. 28 and at the Power Balance Pavilion in Sacramento Nov. 1-4. Purchase tickets and review showtimes at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at (800) 745-3000.

Saturday, December 1

Social Evening & Fundraiser Appetizers and wine at 6:00 Dinner, dessert, entertainment follow Live music, gift basket & quilt raffle & “Tree Farm Boutique”

Creek. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Center REP’s website at www.centerrep.org or call (925) 943.SHOW (7469), or visit the box office at 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Rosemary Francis, Chair: 925-818-3911

Reserved seating, $40 per person All proceeds benefit St. John’s Parish

St. John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Rd, Clayton

New Memory Care Environment New All Inclusive Prices New Administration! CourtYards at Pine Creek encourages and supports independence while offering assisted living services personalized to meet individual needs. We offer Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care, Hospice Care and Respite services. Our belief is that our residents deserve the very best personalized care possible at an affordable rate.

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Exceptional Memory Care Private and Semi-private Studios Restaurant-style Dining Sun-filled courtyards and patios Professional and caring staff 24 hours a day Scheduled transportation & concierge service Stimulating Activities Housekeeping and Laundry Services

and so much more. Call Susan today for details on this exceptional offer!

(925) 798-3900 1081 Mohr Lane Concord www.courtyardsatpinecreek.com

Lic #075601529

Page 18

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Shrubs and trees make good bones

Offering All-Season Training & Riding Instruction Private Riding Lessons Birthday Parties Camp

CAMPS INCLUDE

NICOLE HACKETT

Horseback riding Horse games Horse painting Horsemanship Free camp T-shirt

GARDEN GIRL Foundation plants create the bones, or skeleton, of a landscape. These bones are what accent our lawn areas, windows, walkways, fences and property lines. Nurseries are filled with plants, and their promises printed on tags. Unfortunately these info tags come from growers both near and far. It is hard for the home gardener and some landscapers to know what’s what while staring at rows of plants along an aisle. Trees are one of the most obvious foundation installations one can make, and the most important. It costs far more in money and time to have to remove the wrong tree, so install the right one the first time. Five great trees for our Clayton Valley area are the Chinese Pistache Keith Davy, Arbutus Marina, Raywood Ash, Crape Myrtle and Chitalpa. All of these trees are terrific performers. Depending on the listed selection you can expect fall color, privacy, shade and flowers, as well as being heat loving, clay soil tolerant and water-wise. Heights of these selections vary from 12 to 35 feet so ask questions, rather than relying on tags or the Internet. Shrubs are important bones to our landscapes. Many shrubs will survive in our Clayton Valley climate, but what will thrive? Several come to mind. Some are evergreen and others deciduous. Evergreen shrubs to consider for full-to all-afternoon

Thanksgiving Camp Nov 19, 20 & 21, 9 am to 3 pm $300. Limited camp size. Per-day rate available with advance notice

www.EarthquakeArabians.com 925.360.7454

3141 Morgan Territory Rd., Clayton

“Onofre is as professional as you can get, always on time, great explanations, and the work speaks for itself. I would definitely recommend Iron Horse Concrete to my family and friends.” - Kim Waraner, Waraner Tree Experts

Hardscapes Masonry Restoration Interlocking Pavers Drainage & Grading Footings & Retaining Walls

Onofre Gomez, owner, lic. #964834

ConcreteByIronhorse.com

Family owned & operated since 1981

sun are loropetalum, westringia, euonymus, polygala, coprosma and luecandendron. Morning suns-to-shade evergreens to consider are cestrum, choysia, carpenteria, hebe, gardenia, daphne and southern indicastyle azaleas. Depending on their mature sizes this will dictate where to plant them. Deciduous shrubs that love our Clayton Valley climate are the spirea, weigela, vibrunum, continus and itea. All of these shrubs are excellent, proven plants that can live up to everything promised. Many of the listed shrubs will mature to various sizes depending on the selection, so again, ask. It is a more solid way to find out what you need to

rock-hard clay with a gas-powered auger, pick axes (and other digging implements more suitable for mining than gardening) in a civic beautification effort to get numerous daffodil bulbs, some irises, and a few other plants into the ground before the winter rains. Unfortunately, the plants suffered from lack of irrigation and a drought, but the bulbs bloomed each year up to 2007, when plans for major improvements to Daffodil Hill – funded by the City of Clayton and the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA) – were put into motion. Prior to the start of the new improvements, the CVGC dug up most of the bulbs to sell at their annual Spring Plant Sale, and for planting in other locations around town, such as the muse-

Our passion is pets.

Prizes for cutest, scariest, funniest and more

Founder & promoter for the past 5 years of the Concerts in the Grove Park Series

28-year member & twice president of the Clayton Business & Community Association (CBCA)

Clayton Valley Charter High School advocate

Founder & chair of the Clayton Art & Wine Festival

C.E.R.T. trained (Certified Emergency Response Team)

Clayton Cleans Up volunteer

Clayton Counts Down volunteer

4th of July volunteer

Oktoberfest volunteer

Rib Cook-Off judge

Chili Cook-Off judge

Co-chaired CBCA community golf tournaments

38-year Clayton resident

Semi-retired real estate professional with the time to serve the Clayton community

10 am to 12 pm

Rabies Shot Clinic Sunday, Nov. 4 10 am – 2 pm Free for dogs

10% Off

Seniors 55+ receive 10% off every Tuesday. Excludes Elk Grove Milling barrels & sale items.

$9 rabies shots for cats

NEW - NOW IN STOCK

1.99

10.99

Pro Pac

Organic Oscar

Dog Treats

Tearless Dog Shampoos

Starting at

10.99

Starting at

41.99

The Missing Link

Teckelklub

Essential supplements for your bird, cat or dog

Fleece-lined Waterproof Dog Rain Jackets

Open 7 days

(925) 672-4600

Mon - Fri 10 to 6

Sat 9 to 6

Sun 10 to 4

8863 Marsh Creek Rd. in Clayton

www.rodiesfeed.com

um garden and the community library. Both these sites continue to be voluntarily maintained by the CVGC. Fast-forward to the fall of 2012. Daffodil Hill and the Clayton Road median improvements are nearly complete and bulb planting season has arrived. Daffodil Hill co-designers Nicole Hackett, CVGC President, and Steve Lane, CVGC Vice President, drafted a proposal to City Manager Gary Napper and City Maintenance Supervisor John Johnston, and informed Mayor Geller and the city council that the club would be willing and able to donate, plant and maintain the daffodil bulbs on Daffodil Hill for years to come. The club’s proposal was wellreceived, and the city manager’s approval for daffodil bulb plant-

During the winter months while your trees haven’t any leaves it is always a great idea to have some visual support provided by an evergreen Installing good bones to your landscape will make dressing up the rest of the yard easy and beautiful. The time to plant is now, so get busy. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden and the 2012 president of the Clayton Valley Garden Club. Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

ing and their care was granted on Sept. 24. The CVGC looks forward to caring for and enjoying the beautiful yellow blooms of nearly 500 daffodils next spring, and those that multiply each spring thereafter – a gift that will keep-on giving year after year to the Clayton community. In addition to the CVGC’s efforts, the City of Clayton, the CBCA, Mary Ann Lawrence, Shannon Seven and Stockbridge Construction all helped in the 2012 Daffodil Hill Improvements, ensuring that daffodils will indeed bloom next spring. The Clayton Valley Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month (except December and January) at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center Street, Clayton. Visit their website for more info at www.claytonvalleygardenclub.org.

“COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY”

SUNDAY

Oct. 28

know about your considered plant material. When looking at shrubs to consider creating the skeleton of your landscape think of the appeal it will provide for your home. If you have a large lawn, looks at plant material with variegated or fancy-colored foliage. When planting against an old, faded fence, choose a shrub whose color will stand off of the fences rather than blend. When planting near a foundation of a home, contrast the foliage and flower color of the plant material with the color of the house. Deciduous trees need to be planted with evergreen plant material, so keep that in mind.

Budding, from page 15

Pet Costume Contest

Senior Tuesdays

October 26, 2012

EXPERIENCE COUNTS Current Mayor of Clayton Accessible City Council member for the past 4 years Represented Clayton on local and regional committees Understands the issues facing Clayton Ad paid for by Howard Geller for City Council Supporters, CouncilmanGeller@aol.com