2012_Clayton_Pioneer_1109 by Pioneer Publishers

It’s your paper www.claytonpioneer.com

november 9, 2012

925.672.0500

Pierce and Geller re-elected to council; Diaz leading Liberman Newcomer and veteran candidate duke it out for third council seat

HOWARD GeLLeR

Mayor’S cornEr

Enjoy the Clayton of both present and past during holiday season It’s hard to believe another year has almost gone by. The votes are counted and we will soon see how the results will affect our local, state and federal governments. We can now concentrate on the holiday season. With Thanksgiving fast approaching and Christmas and New Year’s not too far behind, you will want to mark your calendar for some of Clayton’s great holiday events. Dec. 1 is our annual caroling and tree lighting event. Starting at 6 p.m. at the Grove Park with caroling, Santa will lead a parade down Main Street to Oak Street to light our town’s Christmas tree. Dec. 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is our annual Tea with Mrs. Claus and Santa at Endeavor

See Mayor, page 9

TaMara STeiner Clayton Pioneer

Tamara Steiner photo

thE four canDiDatES for city council gathered at the home of incumbent Julie Pierce Tuesday for election night countdown. From left, Jim Diaz, Howard Geller, Julie Pierce and Kevin Liberman. In early results, Pierce had a commanding lead with Geller close behind. At press time, Diaz was leading Liberman by a narrow 131 votes.

Wright’s legacy will touch generations to come Peggy SPear Clayton Pioneer

Dorothy Tudder Wright had two regrets when she was 8 years old: “1. I was not born 100 years ago so that I could have been part of the Wild West (or better yet been Annie Oakley). “2. I wasn’t born a boy.” Luckily for the East Bay, Dorothy was neither of those things. Although she is remembered as a great hostess, a wonderful musician and a devoted mother and grandmother, it was because of where she lived that she touched the most people. When Dorothy died on Oct. 29 at age 92, the longtime Clayton resident left a legacy of historical preservation and stewardship – along with decades of memories – for those who love her former property, Mt. Diablo’s Wright Canyon and Curry Creek Park. She sold the popular picnic area to Save Mount Diablo in 2002. “I want the public to continue be able to ride and walk up to the mountain, and my property will allow it,” she told SMD back then. “I want Morgan Territory’s rural nature to remain.” SMD’s Seth Adams said that the group had been familiar with the Wright property for

ple would come from Walnut Creek to picnic, hike and camp and Martin’s grandpa would come down on Saturdays and charge them two bits a car, his only real source of cash during the Depression.” A swimming pool was added in 1933. The Park was well used until 1938 when Sylvester suffered a stroke and then closed the picnic grounds. He died in 1941 and the remaining 110 acres were put on the market.

years – an oak-studded 70-acre parcel in lower Curry Canyon. Not only was it a beautiful piece of land, but the history of the parcel made it especially alluring. From the 1940s, Dorothy and Martin Wright operated the family picnic and camping spot, and many longtime East Bay residents remember going there for overnight camping trips. The property was near Martin’s ancestral home. Swedish immigrant Peter Olofson and his wife Clarissa – Martin Wright’s grandparents – home-

steaded in the Mitchell Canyon area in the later 1800s and early 1900s, and are remembered today in the name of Olofson Ridge near Tenderfoot Flat. In December 1895, their sons Sylvester and Alfred bought land along Curry Creek. Sylvester and wife Louise Fake Olofson moved there to farm and ranch, and in the 1920s and 30s operated a picnic grounds on the property. Families arrived on weekends and in the summer, for 25 cents a group. According to Dorothy, “peo-

Love and war That’s when true love and war intervened. Martin Wright, who grew up on Oakland, spent summers at his family’s’ beloved property. Even after he met and began dating Dorothy Tudder at Roosevelt High School in East Oakland, he juggled his time with her with trips back to the ranch. He was class president and she was editor-in-chief of the newspaper, The Roosevelt Crimson. Still, neither could afford to go to college at first, so they both worked to save money. Finally he went to the UC Davis in 1939 and Dorothy started at UC Berkeley in 1940. When Pearl Harbor was bombed, Martin joined the Navy, and he and Dorothy married secretly, since it was against the rules during his officer train-

What’s Inside

Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Community Calendar . . . . . .14 CVCHS Reporter . . . . . . . . . .7 Design and Dé cor . . . . . . . .13 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5

Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . . .6 Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . .8 From the Chief . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Photo courtesy of SMD

SMD ExEcutivE DirEctor ron Brown with Dorothy wright at the mouth of Wright Canyon on Morgan Territory Rd. In 2001, SMD acquired Wright’s 70 acre ranch, adjacent to Curry Creek Park which Wright and her husband operated for 33 years. Wright died Oct. 29 at the age of 92.

Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

ing. He went overseas to the South Pacific, while Dorothy eventually became Personnel Manager over Women at Standard Oil in Richmond, helping

See Wright, page 18

Early returns on Tuesday virtually assured re-election of the two incumbents to the City Council, but the race for the third seat was too close to call. At press time, with early mail-in ballots and the polling place results in, it was certain that Julie Pierce would return to the council for a sixth term with 3173 votes counted. Howard Geller, running for a second term, was close behind Pierce with 2687 votes. Veteran candidate Jim Diaz took a slim 131 vote lead over newcomer Kevin Liberman. Joseph Medrano was also on the ballot but disqualified from serving when he was convicted on Oct. 11 of embezzling $159,000 from a former client. By law, he was removed from the City Council on that date and prohibited from holding public office. The verdict came too late, however, to remove his name from the ballot, and despite his conviction, he had 629 votes in the early count. The new council will choose a mayor at the regular council meeting on Dec. 4. Traditionally, the office rotates between the council members based on seniority. Pierce is next in line for mayor.

league champion Eagles top seed in north coast Section playoffs

Mike Dunn photo

Clayton Valley Charter high SChool won its first league football championship since 2008 and capped the Diablo Valley athletic league season with a 62-6 win over long-time Concord rivals Mt. Diablo at gonsalves Stadium. the eagles will bring a nine-game winning streak into the north Coast Section playoffs next Friday as the no. 1 seed in Division ii. they will host the winner of the livermore at Dublin openinground game played this Friday. See story on Page 10.

Holiday Guide ..........16 Mind Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Obituary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .15

Pioneer Photo Album . . . . . .6 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . . .8

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Club News CLAYTON VALLEY GARDEN CLUB Six Clayton Valley Garden Club members joined Anna Wendorf, museum docent and landscape designer, on Oct. 28 to spruce up the Clayton Museum garden in preparation for winter. Volunteers worked on a long list of tasks on the unseasonably warm Sunday morning. Work included plantings along Main Street in the museum’s Historical/Streetscape section of the garden, replacing some natives and pruning and thinning existing growth. The garden is open to the public 365 days a year and serves as an extension of the museum’s exhibit space. Each year, up to 2000 visitors visit the museum and its garden. More improvements are planned for the spring

November 9, 2012

Around Town ‘Missing Link’ dedication

INGELA NIELSEN, STEVE LANE, Linda Karp, Jerry Smith and Valerie Austin prepare the Clayton Museum’s garden for winter.

of 2013. Come see and smell the flowers and learn something new. The Clayton Valley Garden Club and Clayton Historical Society are

always looking for quality members, volunteers and donors to help beautify and educate the community. For more information, go to claytonvalleygardenclub.org and claytonhistory.org.

Last week, Save Mount Diablo, Clayton city officials and neighbors gathered on the hillside below the new Diablo Estates subdivision to tour Lot 25, the “missing link” that now connects Mt. Diablo State Park with the city of Clayton. SMD’s newest preserve is five acres of woodland and canyon below the old Claretian Seminary site, including 500 feet along Mt. Diablo Creek. The property was once the site of the caretaker’s home. The old seminary property has been developed into 24 luxury homes with the last remaining lot donated to Save Mount Diablo as open space preservation.

FORMER MAYOR PETE LAURENCE, Councilwoman Julie Pierce, SMD Seth Adams, Clayton Community Development Director David Woltering and Planning Commissioner Sandy Johnson celebrate the dedication of Lot 25.

Fundraiser brings Katie Grace closer to life saving transplant

On Oct. 26, the Katie’s Dream fundraiser at Centre Concord exceeded all expectations by raising nearly $70,000 compared to the goal of $50,000 sought for Katie Grace Groebner’s heart and lung transplant. The house was packed with 360 guests who bid on the live and silent auctions, dined and listened to music by Stevie Keys All Star Band with guest Ross Valory of Journey.

Christmas songs by the Mt. Diablo Elementary School Choir

See Santa Claus in person!

FREE hot apple cider & donut holes provided by CBCA and served by Clayton Community Church (on Main St.)

Meet at the Gazebo and bring your flashlight hosted by the Clayton Business & Community Association

672-2272

4370 Kearsarge Court, Concord Desirable Lime Ridge!

Katie’s cousin, Donnie Schwartz (left), was the auctioneer for Katie’s Dream event. Joining the party also were Aselyn Schwartz; Katie’s father, John; sister, Savanah; mother, Kathy and Katie Grace

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

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

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

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

3793 Crow Canyon Road Cobblestone! Desirable Ground Level End Unit. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 966sf, inside laundry & an attached 1 car garage! Cozy backyard. Conveniently located $299,000

3108 Coyote Circle Immaculate “Winter” model!

PE ND I N G 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

baths, approx. 2,032sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Kitchen with slab granite counters open to spacious family room with upgraded fireplace and slider to yard. Formal dining room or den. Walk to Mt. Diablo $539,900

411 Joree Lane

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

georgevujnovich.com

Better Homes DRE#00933393

Stunning Unit in immaculate condition!

PE ND IN G

(925)

672-4433

6160 Center St., Suite E, Clayton 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

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

PE ND IN G 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

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

PRICE

BED/BATH

SALE DATE

38 Jalalon Place ..................$411,500 . . . .1939 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .10/26/12 1121 Easley Drive................$415,000 . . . .2116 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .10/24/12 602 Golden Eagle Place......$705,000 . . . .2854 . . . . .4/3 . . . . . .10/23/12 9 Weatherly Drive ................$540,000 . . . .2032 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .10/18/12 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

November 9, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Around Town

Offering All-Season

Windermere Real Estate’s Clayton office donates a day of service to Boys & Girls Club of Diablo Valley Last month, agents and staff from Lynne French’s Windermere Diablo Realty

office spent a day sprucing up the Boys and Girls Club of Diablo Valley.

Each year, Windermere Real Estate, as part of the Windermere Foundation, devotes one workday to making a positive change in the neighborhoods they serve through projects and volunteerism. This year, nearly 50 agents from local Windermere offices spent Oct. 19 painting and doing repairs at the Martinez center. Lynne French, owner of the Clayton office was on hand to help with the project. “It was a unique and wonderful experiStaff from Lynne French’s Windermere office devoted their ence this year. With such a annual service day to the Boys and Girls Club of Diablo Valley. large group of agents and staff, From left: Greg Courtney, John Silvester, Julie Dunn, many organizations couldn’t Angelique Booth, Nancy D’onofrio, Marybeth Cook, Kelly find a fit for us. We were so McDougall, Inge Yarborough, Bonnie Manolas, Lynne French, pleased to learn we would be Mike Davis, Stacy Hengemihle and Oma Talley. working with the Boys & Girls

Giants fans revel in Series sweep

Private Riding Lessons Birthday Parties Camp

Club. To see the kid’s faces as they walked into the club all freshly painted and cleaned up… It’s something none of us will forget. That’s what service means to us: building our communities, making them better.” The Boys and Girls Club has been in Martinez since 1955 and reaches over 1,000 youth age 6-18 through its various programs. The club provides a fun and educational experience where young people are supported, both emotionally and academically

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

Thanksgiving Camp Nov 19-21, 9 am to 3 pm

Holiday Camp

JUST LISTED!

COMING SOON

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

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

PENDING

Limited camp size.

$300. Per-day rate available

Dec 26-28 and Jan 2-4

with advance notice

www.EarthquakeArabians.com 3141 Morgan Territory Rd., Clayton

FREE GAS Visit us at ClaytonValleyShell.com for more promotions

Ed’s Mudville Grill was rocking and rolling with screaming and excited San Francisco Giants fans as the team won the World Series on Oct. 28, 4-3 and swept the series in four games. “That was really exciting,” said Moresi watching his crew pour beer and scramble to get orders out. “To see the enthusiasm of all our guests here tonight was just special. You can’t make that stuff up, it just happened. It was just really neat.” he said. “The business man in me would have liked a few extra games,” he laughed. “It was so much fun. Every one was so excited there was so much energy. It was all positive,” said Ed’s staffer Alana Bryant. After the game ended, within minutes the Mike Dunn photo restaurant was quiet as happy fans headed on LORI SULLIVAN AND PATTY GRANT both of Clayton home with thoughts the next day’s Victory Parade whooped it up at Ed’s when the Giants swept the World Series on Oct. 28. in San Francisco.

$199,000 0 Wanda Way, Martinez 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!

Training & Riding Instruction

925.360.7454

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

Clayton Valley Shell Full Service Auto Care

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

Corner of Clayton Road & Kirker Pass Road

(925) 672-3900 *Offer good at Clayton Valley Shell only and may not be combined. Expires 11/22/12. Must present coupon at time of work estimate.

1938/1944 Holly Creek Pl., 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.

1595 Lower Trail Ride, Clayton $100,000 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.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please help us fill our bin for the Contra Costa Food Bank and support those in need. Drop non-perishable food items to our office before December 13th. Needed Items: (Pasta, Peanut Butter, Canned Goods, Rice & Grains).

263 Mountaire Circle, Clayton $589,000 Dana Hills – Single story 4BD/2BA rancher with lots of light and open floor concept. High end laminate flooring in living room, dining room and family room. Gorgeous views of Mount Diablo.

Shelly Gwynn , (925) 207-3069 www.ShellysHomes.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 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.

November 9, 2012

City of Concord launches new digital neighborhood site On Halloween, the city of Concord officially launched Nextdoor.com, a social network program described as “Neighborhood Watch gone digital.” The city hopes the program will strengthen neighborhood connections and encourage communication between residents. Representatives from Concord Police and Nextdoor were downtown in Concord on Halloween while kids were trick-ortreating to introduce the program and answer questions. Nextdoor.com makes it easy for neighbors to communicate on issues ranging from crime prevention to finding a plumber or asking for help to find a lost pet or locating a babysitter. Each Nextdoor.com website is password protected and available only to people living in that neighborhood. Members must verify when they sign up that they live in the neighborhood before they can join. The program, developed in Menlo Park, has been launched in more than two dozen California cities. Brent Bamberger of Orinda says “We’ve seen lost pets get returned in minutes, and ping pong tables found new homes in a matter of posts; and a heightened sense of security throughout the neighborhood when a recent crime wave hit.” To date, three Concord neighborhoods have joined the network, and several others are in process. “There are many advantages to using Nextdoor.com,” says Sgt. Russ Norris. “It’s like a Neighborhood Watch program gone digital.” The goal of the program is to get neighbors talking “to reduce blight,

nuisance issues and crime. When neighbors know each other, they look out for each other. Nextdoor.com makes it easier for neighbors to meet, create watch groups, report sus-

Mike Dunn photo

MDES students hit by car on way to school Two girls, 6 and 9, escaped with minor injuries on Oct. 30 when they were hit by a van on their way to school. The girls had just been dropped off by their mother at Mitchell Canyon Rd. and Four Oaks Lane when they darted across the street in front of a van headed north on Mitchell Canyon. The girls were not in the crosswalk and the accident

Realtor®, DRE#01370548

925.212.5593

925.932.7329

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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

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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

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

appeared unavoidable said Clayton officer Sgt. Jason Shaw, who was parked on Mitchell Canyon and witnessed the incident. “It doesn’t appear that the driver was speeding and all witness accounts are consistent with what I saw.” The girls were taken to the hospital where they were treated for minor injuries and released.

STEPHANIE LOPEZ

Realtor®, DRE#01874255

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

For more information, visit www.Nextdoor.com or contact Sgt. Norris, (925) 671-3311, ext. 4328.

AURORA HARKNESS AND SAMANTHA TIER BOTH OF CONCORD prepare to work the tables for treats at Todos Santos Square on Halloween. The event was sponsored by the Todos Santos Business Association, Concord Police Department and Nextdoor.com a new social media site that connects people in their neighborhoods.

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.

picious activity, and prevent crime before it happens.”

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

November 9, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Body found behind Safeway probable suicide

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA

AND

The body of a white male, estimated to be in his mid-forties, was found dead in Westwood Park on Monday, Nov. 5, from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. A handgun was found with the body and police say there was no evidence of foul play. He was found around 10:30 a.m. by two Clayton women who were walking the trail. He was slumped against a tree next

R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers

TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Nicci Shipstead, Pam Wiesendanger, Mike Dunn

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

to the parking lot behind Safeway. They initially thought he was sleeping, but when they returned to the trail after breakfast, they saw that he had blood on his arm and called police. The man had been living with a girlfriend in Kirkwood Village which is across the creek from Westwood Park. At press time, his identity was being withheld pending notification of his parents who live out of state.

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 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

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

reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.

CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send Church News to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com

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

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on our Website are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 250 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter in a Word document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.

Copa Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-2202

Classified

Iron Horse Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .595-3951 Ken Mitolo Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2460

FOR SALE Double pedestal, solid oak, roll top desk. Excellent condition. 60” wide, 31” deep, 51” tall. Will deliver anywhere in Bay Area for free. Will consider all reasonable offers. Call 408-315-5594.

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

HOMES Are Selling & Prices Starting Back UP!

TOWN CENTER COMMERCIAL LOT

KNOWLEDGE SERVICE INTEGRITY RESULTS

$595,000!

DRE#00344166

This .638 Acre lot at 6070 Center St. in Town Center is For Sale at a great price. Put your own 2story 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!

Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144

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Varsity head girls’ lacrosse coach at CVCHS (spring 2013 season). Submit electronic resume with coaching experience and three references to gregory.fister@claytonvalley.o rg or bring paper copy application to CVCHS.

Steffan Smith Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0497 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dentistry Perfect Smiles Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . .889-9212 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Financial and Insurance Services Held, Chris - Morgan Stanley Smith Barney . . . .930-3815

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Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Prosperitas Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7700 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-877-8328 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals

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

Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Home and Garden Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Flooring City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-8220 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920

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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.

Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334

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Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329

Hospice of the East Bay Help needed at Hospice of the East Bay Concord Thrift Shoppe located at 5350 Clayton Road, Concord. 6749072. For information contact Carmen Siems, volunteer coordinator at 887-5678 or carmens@hospiceeastbay.org.

Optometry Foresight Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4100 Pet Services Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Peace of Mind Pet Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9781 Pet Suites Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodie’s Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services French, Lynne - Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Klock, Leigh - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Laurence, Pete - RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Mazzei, Matt -Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Kali Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276-0845 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737, ext. 205 Senior Services 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

Clayton Historical Society Museum The Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter for two hours per month from 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays or Sundays. Call the museum at 672-0240 and leave your name.

Specialty Stores HobbyTown USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-3802 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Holiday Guide Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Blessed Brides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1200 Contra Costa County Fair . . . . . . . . . .contracostafair.com

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

Recycle this paper

Jennifer Leischer Interior Design . . . . . . . . . . . . .270-9955 Memo’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0395 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323

Kindness Do the Right Thing

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 9, 2012

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Q. My family is going to be moving soon. We have a dog and a cat. I am worried about how they will adjust to the move. Any suggestions? A. Moving is an adjustment for humans but it is also difficult for pets. We are responsible for easing the transition and keeping the pet safe. I went to the “Pet Realty Network” and got some suggestions: 1. Keep the pets separated from all the chaos of moving day. If your pet isn’t already comfortable with a crate it would be a good idea to get one and get them accustomed to it. Make it sturdy and well ventilated. Put them each in one in a quiet well-ventilated place. If you don’t use a crate, still find a quiet place such as a bathroom and put their toys or treats in there with them. 2. Find a veterinarian in your new area and ask if there are any local concerns like Lyme disease or any vaccinations or medications your pet may require. If you are moving to another

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS country, carry an updated rabies vaccination and health certificate. It is important to contact the Agriculture Department or embassy to obtain specific information about bringing a pet into the country. 3. Make sure your pet is wearing a sturdy collar with an identification tag, labeled with your current contact information. It should include your cell phone number and destination location. 4. Keep at least one week’s worth of food and medication with you in case of an emer-

gency. Ask your current vet for an extra prescription before you move. Purchase an extra supply of special food in case you can’t find it right away in your new area. 5. If you are moving far enough away that you will be getting a new vet, get a current copy of your pat’s medical records and vaccinations. Keep your current vet’s contact information handy in case of an emergency or in case a new vet needs more information. 6. Prepare a first aid kit. Being prepared and knowing basic first aid could save your pet’s life. Supplies should include: gauze to wrap wounds or to muzzle your pet, adhesive tape for bandages, non-stick bandages, towels and hydrogen peroxide (3 percent). 7. If you are traveling in a car a crate is ideal. A restraining harness is also good. For cats a well ventilated carrier is best. Don’t leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. Try to keep your pet on its current eating schedule.

8. Prepare your new home for pets. They are often frightened and confused in new surroundings. When you arrive, immediately set out all the familiar and necessary things your pet will need: food , water, medications, bed, litter box, toys etc. Be cautious of narrow gaps behind or between appliances where your pet might try to hide. Keep external doors and windows closed when your pet is unsupervised. If your old home is nearby, your pet might try to find a way back there. Make sure the new owners have your contact information and a photo of your pet. 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.

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THE

CHIEF

Everyone has heard the comment: “Time flies when you’re having fun!” Well, I have to say that the past seven years serving the Clayton community as your Police Chief, has flown by in the blink of an eye. As many of you may already know, I recently announced my retirement after 40 years of a career in law enforcement. During the past seven years, I have encountered many challenges and successes. One of the many experiences that I have enjoyed was writing the monthly “From the Chief ” column for the Clayton Pioneer. For each article, I tried to be informative as well as provide answers to questions about issues of the day. My articles have covered a wide spectrum of issues, such as Halloween Safety, dog leash laws, identity theft, soliciting laws, provisional driver’s licenses, identifying when it is too old for seniors to drive, and many other subjects. For my last article, I would like to

provide you with what I consider to be the top ten signs that indicated to me that it was finally time to retire from law enforcement in the 21st century. They are: You are about to call the dispatcher and advise that there have been shots fired. Turns out it was just your

knees and back cracking as you get out of bed. The new officer wants to know if the chicken in the sandwich you bought him is organic and free range. Back in the day it was a couple of hard charging homicide detectives that went out, found the suspect and

brought him in for questioning. These days it’s Facebook, GPS, Tweets, and fusion centers. You’ve been on the job longer than Andy Griffith. The tech guy talks your ear

See Chief page 9

Pioneer Photo Album Kim Hill built this 20 foot arachnid for Halloween and then left it up to hubby Doug to figure out how to get it on the roof of their Molluk Way garage. “It stops traffic,” says Doug. “It’s pretty awesome, if I do say so myself.” In keeping with our motto, “It’s Your Paper,” the Pioneer is proud to spotlight our reader’s photos. Send in your cute pets, funny kids, great landscapes, favorite sites in town or whatever makes your heart beat a little faster. Email your photo in a hi-resolution jpeg or tiff format to album@claytonpioneer.com with a description of the photo, where and when it was taken and a little about why you like it. Include your name and phone number. Then look for it in the next Pioneer.

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FASHION OVER 50 Where did they come from? How long have they been there? You know what I’m talking about – those nasty brown spots on the back of your hands, on your arms, or even your face. (I have one on my right eyelid.) We call them age spots, but the medical term is hyperpigmentation, and getting rid of

them takes patience and perseverance. Sure you can have the spots burned off with liquid nitrogen or zapped with a laser, but to stay on top of the little buggers, you need a plan that includes exfoliating the damaged skin and protecting new skin from sun damage. Luckily, there are many promising products available that can help get rid of age spots. Here is a list of recommended products that you may want to consider: MAC Spot On Targeted Skin Brightening System ($38). This product has an array of skin lighteners including Lumiskin, a

peptide that inhibits skin pigmentation, several forms of Vitamin C, niacinamide and botanicals. E’shee Intensive Brightening Serum ($119). This product works best on a localized area like a patch or dark spot rather than lightening the overall skin tone. Sevani Rapid Renewal Resurfacing Cream ($120) Exfoliation is essential for taking down hyperpigmentation and here the job is done with sugars and fruit acids. With brighteners and moisturizing ingredients, this is a great multi-tasker. NIA Rapid Depigmentation Serum ($75) This serum’s main

ingredient is Vitamin C, which normalizes pigment production while increasing collagen and providing antioxidant protection. After 12 weeks, users saw a 21percent improvement in skin tone and a 23 percent progression in radiance. Some of these products are available at www.truthinaging.com. I’ve ordered the MAC Spot On System and will let you know how it works. Obviously, another important part of this treatment is sunscreen. Don’t forget to put it on the back of your hands, even in winter. 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.

November 9, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 7

CV Robotics Club outpaces NASA teams at first tournament Meyer, whose classroom is right next door. In addition to Carrasco and Bucher the competition team at San Ramon included seniors Anthony Solhtalab and Carlos Silva and juniors Joshua Reynoso, Sam Ritzo, Joseph Camaddo and David Tejeda. “We learned many things being there 12 hours. We’re brainstorming now on how to correct our flaws, tweak our design within the competition guidelines and strengthen our entry for next time. We are ecstatic about how well we did in this competition and now the only thing holding us back is lack of funding [for more advanced

One of the primary goals of the new administration at Clayton Valley Charter High School this year is to get more students to be more active and engaged in extracurricular activities. The school’s Robotics Club, which got off the ground officially last year, is a major beneficiary of this new emphasis on campus and has already reaped some of the benefits with their showing at the first Vex Robotics Tournament of the year. Clayton Valley Robotics participated in its first-ever Vex event at the end of October at Dougherty Valley High School in San Ramon. The initial tournament can be termed nothing short of a major success as Clayton Valley finished 13th out of the 40 schools entered as they advanced to the quarterfinals, beating four of the six teams in San Ramon sponsored by NASA! The Robotics Club at Clayton

Valley got its start two years ago by a trio of then sophomores – Jeremy Bucher, Jacob Reynolds and Matt Vonnegut. Reynolds went to Diablo Valley College after his junior year and Vonnegut is no longer in the club. Bucher, on the other hand, is club president during his senior year and chief cheerleader for the club as well. “Our club is composed of brilliant young minds who love the hands-on experience with technology that Robotics Club provides,” Bucher says without a hint of shyness. He adds, “Technology is one of the major defining characteristics of the future and the ones who will shape that future are the students of today. Robotics Club allows students to stop only hearing about innovation and start innovating. Members of the club have the opportunity to take the knowledge from the classroom and apply it in a competitive and fun environment.” Drawn mainly from students in the Clayton Valley Engineering Academy, the club has grown

substantially this year and is now meeting twice a week after school. Bucher heads the competition team that builds and competes in Vex Tournaments while junior Gonzalo Carrasco leads Team 2 which is divided up into small groups of four that build small robots and compete against each other in interclub challenges. Reinforcing an unfortunate stereotype about math and science students, only three females are currently in the club – Nneoma Nwosu, Veronica Staneck and Celine Jusuf. The club decided to compete with Vex robots because they are among the least expensive. Robot kits can easily run up to $30,000. Chevron donated two Vex kits to the club last year at a cost of about $1,500 each. John Ouimet, who teaches in the Engineering Academy and also instructs auto technology at Clayton Valley Charter, is the club advisor. Since Ouimet splits his time with auto shop activities the club also has received guidance from wood shop teacher Paul

Drug use shreds Red Ribbon Week message Ever since I have been in school, Red Ribbon Week has been a regular part of the yearly routine. In elementary and middle school, Red Ribbon Week wasn’t much more than pinning a crimson ribbon to my chest and receiving a complimentary lollipop as a result. Both grade schools I attended kept me quite sheltered from harms such as drug abuse and violence, and as a result, programs like the Red Ribbon Week campaign had little impact on me. I had always been told to “say no to drugs!” However, the concept was difficult for me to grasp considering I had never been exposed to any drug, alcohol, or tobacco abuse before. However, now that I am in high school, these issues are more prevalent than in previous years. With age comes freedom, and this is very much the case with chemical abuse. Even though Clayton Valley Charter High School does an excellent job with managing drug and alcohol use on campus, it is simply impossible to prevent it completely. However, when I looked across the field during my first period class on that foggy Wednesday morning and saw a few students passing a joint, it only struck me with feelings of disappointment. Never before had the message

ROBBIE PARKER

CVHS REPORTER of Red Ribbon Week been so clear to me. CVCHS participated in Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23 to 31, as a part of the National Family Partnership’s ongoing Red Ribbon Campaign. On Oct. 24, students wore red in support of the school’s effort to provide awareness and education on the prevention of drug, alcohol and tobacco use. In their classes, students were recommended to sign a pledge promising to live a healthy drug-free lifestyle. The campus was decorated with posters with the slogan, “The Best Me is Drug Free.” Since its creation in 1985, the Red Ribbon Campaign has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. It started with tragic killing of Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Enrique Camarena, a 37-year-old man who joined

the force to make a difference in the world. He was sent undercover to investigate a large drug cartel in Mexico, but on Feb. 7, 1985, was abducted and murdered before meeting his wife for lunch. The death of Camarena sparked emotion in thousands in communities across the country. Supporters everywhere voluntarily began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of awareness. It represented their commitment to raise responsiveness to the damage caused by drugs in America. In 1988, NFP sponsored the very first National Red Ribbon Celebration. Today, the symbolic red ribbon serves as a catalyst to educate kids and teens and encourage involvement in drug prevention activities. Schools nationwide take part in this movement every year. Seeing students using drugs on MY campus during a commemorative week such as this is like a blatant and unashamed slap in the face, not only to CVCHS, but to the family and friends of deceased DEA Agent Enrique Camarena. It’s no great shock that drug abuse has the potential to destroy one’s life, but it appears that it degrades one’s deference as well. Robbie Parker is a freshman at Clayton Valley High School. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com

Century. The Robotics Foundation is committed to promoting technology and related student and professional advancement so that one day these programs become accessible to all students and all schools in all communities. To learn more about the competitions visit robotevents.com. Like so many things, the Clayton Valley Robotics Club can use additional resources so that they can purchase advanced parts for the competition team and additional materials so that more students can participate. Interested parties can contact Ouimet on campus or email the club at Claytonvalleyroboticsclub@gmail.com.

Not a Giant sacrifice to attend parade

Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Robotics Club

JUNIOR SAM RITZO IS MAKING FINAL ADJUSTMENTS ON THE CLAYTON VALLEY ROBOTICS CLUB entry at their first-ever Vex Robotics Tournament last month at Dougherty Valley High School in San Ramon. The rookie team from Clayton Valley Charter High School reached the quarterfinals from among a field of 40 schools. JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

parts],” Bucher explained. The club hopes to apply the lessons learned there for events next February at Northgate High in Walnut Creek and in Tracy. On the Vex Robotics website it says the “Robotics Education and Competition Foundation exists to connect students, mentors and schools in every community to a variety of successful and engaging technology-based programs. Our goal is to provide these programs with services, solutions and a community that allows them to flourish in a way that fosters the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for students to succeed in the 21st

SARA CHAVEZ

TEEN SPEAK For all of my childhood, I have held school as a very important aspect of my life. Both my parents and I value academic success, and regard attending school as a top priority. I am currently in my senior year of high school, and regardless of my early onset “senioritis,” this is still the case. However, I believe that many different experiences are necessary in becoming a well-rounded individual, and that rules can occasionally be broken with justification – which is why I do not regret my decision to forgo school on Halloween, and instead attend the San Francisco Giants’ World Series Victory Parade. I do feel slightly guilty over the money that the school loses. My absence alone would not

make much of an impact, but I know for a fact that many of my peers were also in San Francisco that day, and, added to the usual amount of sick students, that will be a larger-than-usual sum of money lost. I know that two years ago, when the Giants won the World Series in 2010, absences were a huge topic of discussion, as many schools in the area were hit with fairly dramatic money losses. However, being at the parade eased my conscience fairly quickly. There was an atmosphere of excitement in the city, as reportedly one million fans from all across the Bay Area gathered to cheer on their favorite baseball team. Many of those fans were of high school age or younger. But the all-ages audience made the atmosphere even more fun. Of course, there is also the issue of instructional time lost in a day. For many younger kids, the Halloween date made missing school easier, since it is usually a day of parties. However, there were no Halloween parties

being held in any of my classes, and I knew all along that I would be missing work. Although I may suffer when I am actually doing my make-up work, I do know that I am an independent learner, and having to play catch-up is a sacrifice that I am willing to make for this experience. Next year, I will be in college at this time of the year, and even if the Giants do win another ring, I will likely not be around to celebrate. Who knows when I will have the opportunity to experience this again? In my opinion, everything fell perfectly into place, with my favorite team winning during my senior year, arguably the most opportune year to miss school. And maybe I missed seeing some interesting costumes at school, but I wouldn’t have wanted to celebrate Halloween any other way. Sara Chavez is a senior at Clayton Valley High School. She hopes to pursue her passions of writing and dancing in college, as well as working toward a career as a school psychologist. Email her at sarachavez@claytonpioneer.com.

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Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 9, 2012

Herbs for the Holidays LINDA WYNER

FOOD

FOR

THOUGHT

Simon & Garfunkel notwithstanding, there’s a lot to be said for parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme this time of year. These herbs, along with bay leaf and sometimes oregano or marjoram, are the traditional aromatic seasonings for Thanksgiving dishes. What is an herb as opposed to a spice? In general, an herb is the leafy portion of a plant used either in dried or fresh form. Spices are harvested from other portions of the plant and are usually dried. Spices may come from berries (pepper), roots (actually rhizomes like ginger), seeds (nutmeg), flower buds (cloves) and the stamens of flowers (saffron).

Parsley is perhaps the most well-known herb used in America. Of the two forms typically used, flat leaf or Italian parsley is used more often in cooking since it has a stronger and less bitter flavor than its cousin, curly parsley. It’s long been used to flavor and garnish food, but in ancient times it was made into wreaths and worn to prevent intoxication. Parsley seed oil is a common modern ingredient in shampoo, soap, and men’s cologne. There are more than 500 varieties of sage, popularly used to season bread stuffing for turkey. Like most herbs, sage was viewed as to heal, to treat snake bites, eye problems, infections, memory loss and intestinal problems. It is naturally antibacterial and contains powerful anti-oxidants. Of these four herbs, perhaps rosemary has the longest pedigree of social, medicinal, and culinary applications. Some of the earliest references to rosemary associate the herb with the

remembrance of significant events, as when it was thrown into graves to remember the departed, used as a garland by students studying for exams, and worn by brides to show they would always remember their families. Its piney aroma is still used extensively in perfumes, bath oil, shampoos and even as an insect repellant. Rosemary oil and tinctures were prescribed to treat toothache, headache, gout, coughs, baldness, and indigestion. It was believed that burning rosemary could kill germs and protect against infectious disease. While whole sprigs of rosemary can be added to oil and vinegar to flavor condiments and marinades, usually it is finely chopped to enhance vegetables like tomatoes, spinach, peas and mushrooms, added to breads and cheeses, or used to flavor all natures of meat, particularly when roasting. Thyme is a member of the mint family and was used by the ancient Greeks to symbolize courage, a belief that persisted

into the Middle Ages when sprigs of thyme were used to decorate the scarves of knights to reflect their bravery in battle. Egyptian mummification practices included thyme in preserving solutions. There is considerable difference in using fresh herbs and dried herbs. While they can be interchangeable (dried herbs are more pungent than fresh, so when substituting use far less dried herb), there are noteworthy flavor and texture differences. While you might enjoy fresh parsley sprinkled on top of a bowl of pasta, freeze-dried parsley would be altogether too bitter, dry and crunchy. Infuse dried herbs in oils and they impart lovely flavor (and rehydrate in the oil too). Returning to the musical duo allusion, you might like to try this recipe:

SIMON & GARFUNKEL STUFFING 4 stalks celery, chopped 1 onion, chopped 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1/2 bunch fresh Italian parsley, chopped 6 leaves fresh sage, minced 2 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped and rubbed 1 to 2 tsp minced fresh rosemary 6-8 c bread cubes 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 4 Tbsp butter, melted 1 c vegetable broth (or more if needed to moisten) Salt and pepper Preheat large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil, butter, celery, onions and garlic.

Sauté, stirring occasionally, until onion is tender. Add the herbs and season generously with salt and pepper. Add the mixture to the bread cubes in a large bowl and stir in enough vegetable broth to moisten. Turn stuffing into an oiled casserole dish and bake at 350 °F for 30 minutes or until warmed through and dry and crispy on top.

Linda Wyner, a local attorney and foodie, owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@pansonfire.com

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JustFloorsConcord.com WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS As a meteorologist, I followed the path of Hurricane Sandy as it moved in a northerly direction from its genesis near Cuba. As a father I paid special attention to this storm as it approached the MidAtlantic states since my youngest son had just moved to New York City. It soon became obvious that Sandy was going to be a dangerous storm with respect to wind, rain and storm-surge potential. Typically, hurricanes lose strength as they move northward over cooler water. Sandy was actually strengthening as it moved northward as it merged with a cold trough of low pressure that originated in

central Canada. Hurricanes that move northward over the Atlantic are usually steered to the east by the jet stream and dissipate without making landfall. Not so with Sandy. Weather forecast models indicated that a strong high pressure system over the northern Atlantic would steer this cyclone toward the U.S., with landfall expected along the New Jersey coast. As it turned out, the computer models were accurate. The center of the storm crossed the New Jersey coastline about 150 miles south of New York City. The city avoided a direct hit as far as the wind and rain were concerned, but encountered a paralyzing storm surge that flooded subways and closed all three major airports. Hurricanes are large storms with winds that move in a counter-clockwise (cyclonic) direction around the center. Sandy approached the New Jersey coastline moving from east to west. This means that winds in the area north of the center of the storm were also moving from east to west, pushing ocean water toward

the coastline. Superstorm Sandy’s storm surge rode in toward New York City’s coastline on top of a oceanic tide that was higher than normal due to the presence of a full moon. Tidal gauge data from the Battery Station in Manhattan show the water level there was the highest ever recorded, reaching 13.88 feet above normal. That broke the official record set during a hurricane in 1821 by more than three and a half feet. Damage from Superstorm Sandy will likely be in the tens of billions of dollars, making the storm one of the most expensive disasters in U.S. history. Meteorologists and coastal

urban planners will study the causes and effects of this storm for years. My son said he was lucky he rented an apartment away from the shoreline, but has endured some nightmare commutes to work. He moved to New York just in time to experience Hurricane Sandy, one of the most unique storm events in recent history. I was able to watch the storm from my computer – he was able to see it out his window! Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

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As we watched the coverage of the devastation and destruction of Hurricane Sandy, our hearts filled with sadness for those who lost their businesses, their homes, and in some cases, their lives. We may also have felt the uncomfortable twinges of anxiety and fear as we reflect on what we might do if something like that happened to us. While we may not have to worry about hurricanes here in the Bay Area, we do live with the awareness and knowledge that a major earthquake could occur at any time. Whether helping our loved ones on the East Coast or preparing ourselves right here in Clayton, this seems like the opportune time to share some tips for coping after a major natural disaster. Dr. Judy Kuriansky, a clinical psychologist who has helped survivors after Hurricane Katrina and after earthquakes in Haiti and Japan, offers the following advice: 1) Accept a wide range of emotional reactions. Natural

disasters are out of our control, so it is normal to feel helpless and powerless. It can be very frustrating to not have anyone

STEPHANIE HO MIND MATTERS or anything to blame for the disaster, and often times, that frustration is misdirected at those closest to us. You may find yourself being more short and irritable with your loved ones. Acknowledge but do not hold onto feelings of “survivor guilt” if you did not suffer as much loss as others, or blame yourself

if you feel relieved that you did not suffer as much. 2) Connect with others. During times of threat and tragedy, pay attention to who you contact and who contacts you and acknowledge their importance. Having a network of people who you care about and vice versa is a demonstrated positive coping strategy during times of emergency. If you are not directly at risk, then please consider reaching out to those who are to offer support and help. 3) Grow from the experience. Research has shown that negative events can cause not only post-traumatic stress but also post-traumatic growth. After natural disasters, people often re-evaluate their priorities, find new meaning in their lives, and re-affirm how they want to do things differently in the future. 4) Get back to normal as soon as possible. Even if businesses and schools are closed, try to get yourself and your fam-

ily back on a routine as much as possible. 5) Be prepared for feelings to last. Even after the disaster dangers go away and the media attention fades, feelings can still linger and hang around. An argument, outburst, or breakdown a week later may be left over from the event. Noticing this connection may help diffuse and dissipate the intensity of those emotions. 6) Pay particular attention to your child’s reactions. Use the disaster as a teachable moment to explain about unexpected events and to ask about their thoughts and feelings. Reassure them of your presence and expect to spend extra time with them, especially in dark or unfamiliar settings. Stephanie T. Ho is a licensed psychologist. She has a private practice office in Walnut Creek and works at UC Berkeley. She can be reached at stephanie.ho.phd@gmail.com.

November 9, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Acetabulum and Mimosa are ARF’s Adoption Stars

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Acetabulum is a typical Shar Pei. He is social on his own terms and he really loves to explore his environment and take in all the sights, sounds, and smells of his surroundings. Acetabulum has a quirky side that comes out when he plays. It would be great to focus Acetabulum’s curiosity and attention to a stimulating activity like a Basic Manners training class or a vigorous hike in the hills. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60 percent 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.

Spayed and neutered pets are healthier, happier, and don’t contribute to an already overwhelming pet overpopulation. As one of the many ways the Animal Rescue Foundation is helping to reduce the population of unwanted animals, ARF is pleased to offer free spay/neuter surgeries on Wednesday, Dec. 5 at their 2890 Mitchell Drive facility in Walnut Creek. Dogs and cats must between 17 weeks and 6 years of age, healthy, and current on rabies vaccinations. Puppies and kittens must weigh at least two pounds. Dogs must have their DHPP vaccination and cats must be current on the FVRCP vaccine. Proof of vaccinations will be required on the day of surgery. Space is limited, so be sure to book an appointment in advance by calling the Spay/Neuter Clinic at (925) 296-3125. Leave a message and an ARF representative will return your call within three business days.

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Chief, from page 6 off about the web apps on bluetooth-equipped blackberries. You nod politely and have no clue what the heck he’s talking about. All of the officers are young enough to be your grandchildren. Your idea of “roughing” the suspect up is to get him in the interview room and talk

about your sciatica non-stop for 45 minutes. You’re wondering when “friend” went from being a noun to a verb. You overheard a first-year cop talking about you: “That dude’s so old; he probably still listens to CD’s!” You’re the only employee on Medicare.

Mayor, from page 1 Hall. There will be lots of sweets for the kids and photo opportunities for parents. Dec. 31 is our annual Clayton Counts Down” New Year’s Eve program. This is an alcohol-free environment for families and their children sponsored by donors through the City of Clayton. It will feature kid activities, refreshments, food, games and prizes. This event takes place at the Clayton Community Gym from 5 to 8 p.m. Further details on these events, as well as others for the holiday season, will appear in future editions of the Clayton Pioneer. You can also check our City’s website: www.cityofclayton.org. HISTORIC CLAYTON If you have guests for the holidays, an interesting place to take them is the Joel Clayton

Historical Museum. There is lots of history for our small town that most will find fascinating. The building was built around 1860 and moved several times before it ended up at its present location in 1976. Joel Clayton’s home, a second smaller Oak Street home of the same vintage, the old town jail and an outhouse have all been moved and converted by the Clayton Historical Society members to create our museum. Furnished with artifacts acquired through donations depicting the history of the Mt. Diablo region from the early 1800s, you and your guests will get a true feeling of our community back in the days of yore. Although it was gold that brought the miners to California, it was the discovery of coal in the 1850s in the foothills of

Some of these signs are silly, and some are slightly true. I have had a great career especially my last seven years with the Clayton Police Department. However, I recognize that it is time for some else to lead the Clayton Police Department. As I write this article, the city’s recruitment process to locate the next chief is well under way. I am very certain that the “new guy” will be a great fit for the city and the department.

Although I will miss the excitement that a career in law enforcement brings, I will stay active and have more time to share with Sandy, my wife of 42 years. In the words of General Robert E. Lee, “I bid you all an affectionate farewell.”

Mt. Diablo that brought the miners to our region. It provided a cheap, readily available fuel not only for the foundries, but also for the mills, ferries, steamers and other developing industries. Though Clayton was not a mining town, it was centrally located to the mining towns of Somersville, Nortonville, Judsonville and Stewartville. Clayton provided the services and supplies for these miners. Clayton soon became the hub of activity and a bustling town. There was a General Store, school, hotel, taverns and churches. By 1868, with a population of 900, Clayton was one of the largest cities in Contra Costa County. By 1902, high mining cost and the advent of oil as an industry fuel drove most of the mines out of business. Nortonville and Somersville became ghost towns almost overnight. Clayton became a

quiet ranching community. The museum will be decorated for the holidays and their cases will be stuffed with unique gifts and Clayton memorabilia for you to purchase. Admission is free. However, you should check their website at www.claytonhistory.org for special holiday hours. My grandfather, a wise man 99 years old when he passed, said, “If you always tell the truth, you never have to remember what you said.” As always, email questions or comments to Councilmangeller@aol.com.

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November 9, 2012

Sports League champion Eagles top seed for NCS playoffs in league heading into the showdown clash. Three times the Eagles scored touchdowns to take leads and each time the Broncos tied the score. In the fourth quarter junior quarterback Mike Protheroe scored on a 27-yard run for a 27-21 Eagles lead after the conversion kick was blocked. Northgate took the ensuing kickoff 80 yards to the CVCHS fiveyard line, threatening to tie or take the lead. The defense stopped the Broncos near the goal line on fourth down and then drove 99 yards to ice the win and take the DVAL crown for the first time since 2008.

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

An incredible offensive output utilizing new coach Tim Murphy’s wing-gun offense rewrote the school record book and propelled Clayton Valley Charter, now the top scoring high school football team in California, to nine consecutive victories including an undefeated Diablo Valley Athletic League slate. The Eagles are the No. 1 seed in the North Coast Section playoffs, hosting their first NCS game next Friday, Nov. 16, at Gonsalves Stadium against the winner of this Friday’s first-round game between Dublin and Livermore. Based on past experience, carrying a high playoff seed bodes well for the Eagles. In 2008 Clayton Valley embraced its return to the DVAL by going undefeated through 10 regularseason games, got the No. 2 seed in the playoffs before losing the NCS championship game to No. 1 Cardinal Newman and finishing with a school record 12-1 record. In 2003 Clayton Valley was also the No. 2 seed and went to triple overtime before dropping a wild 3736 NCS finale to Las Lomas. The Eagles have been seeded no higher than fifth in their six other NCS appearances in the past decade and have made it to the semi-finals only once in those years (2004). This season began inauspiciously as the team adapted to the new offensive and defensive schemes introduced by the coaching staff. Perennial power

Mike Dunn photo

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DAVID LINZEY, center, is all smiles along with star running back Joe Protheroe, left, and his younger brother and quarterback Mike Protheroe after CVCHS completed an undefeated DVAL season with a 62-6 romp over Mt. Diablo at Gonsalves Stadium. The Eagles are No. 1 seed in the Division II football playoffs.

Pittsburg defeated CVCHS 4027 in the opener but since then the Eagles offense has never scored fewer than 41 points in a game and exceeded 54 six times while averaging 53.5 points per game. Despite its frenetic pace the Eagles offense has had only

one lost fumble and one pass interception while punting just three times in 10 games! Running back Joe Protheroe shattered the school mark for rushing yards with 2,091 yards heading into the playoffs. The previous record of 1,741 was set

in 1994 by Dominic DeMartini. The team established new marks for scoring (535 points in the season and 68 in a game), rushing yards in a game (547) and season (4,027) and total offense with nearly 5,100 yards before NCS play.

The league championship was decided two weeks ago when CV scored 20 unanswered points in the fourth quarter to defeat Northgate 41-21 after the teams were tied at 21 entering the last quarter. Both teams were undefeated

REGIONAL FINAL BECKONS This year California high school football has added Regional championship games for each division in Northern and Southern California to determine the teams for the CIF Bowl games in Carson Dec. 1415. With the Eagles as the top seed they will be well positioned to earn a berth in the Division II Regional final should they rack up three straight playoff wins and win the school’s first-ever section football title. With the No. 1 seed brings a bye this weekend. Murphy welcomes the time off “for a ton of reasons. The players can heal up from the long season and get ready for what we hope are five more weeks of games.” Murphy led Ygnacio Valley to its initial NCS crown in 1999 in the midst of a three-year run as league titlists. Murphy left YVHS in 2001 for a new position at Clovis East in the Central Valley reaching four Section championship games, winning two.

3 young Diablo FC teams reach finals of Halloween Kick or Treat Classic JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

For many years one of the area’s most anticipated soccer events, the 14th annual edition of the Halloween Kick or Treat Classic proved as popular as ever with 107 under nine through under 11 competitive teams taking part over the last weekend of October. The host Diablo FC ended up with three teams reaching the championship finals and its Diablo FC 03 boys winning the coveted costume contest in its division. Diablo FC 02 girls won three consecutive games to earn a spot in the U10 finals against Almaden Arsenal FA Elite 03.

In the championship match Diablo FC and Almaden tied 22 in regulation time and were scoreless in two golden goals overtime periods. Almaden then won the Broomsticks U10 title in a penalty kick shootout, denying Diablo FC 02 a win in the Kick or Treat finals for the second year in a row. The home team coached by Miguel Gonzalez defeated Mustang Stars 4-2 and Mill Valley Rockers U10 Red 2-1 in roundrobin play. Diablo FC 02 edged Tri Valley Blues 1-0 in the semifinals. In the U10 flight coach Steve Shott’s boys had strong offensive play while beating Mustang Strikers 6-2, Dublin United

Arsenal 5-1 and Mustang Hibernian 6-2 to setup up the finale against Mustang Roma, the first-place team in fall league gold division. Roma defeated Diablo FC 02 4-1 to claim the Bats division title after also winning the Kick or Treat U9 title a year ago. The third Diablo FC team to get into the championship finals was the U11 boys coached by St. Mary’s College head coach Adam Cooper. They started off the weekend on fire with a win of 7 – 0 over West Coast Wolves. Kyle Antonson and Ryan Giacobazzi scored goals while Juan Haro and Lincoln Adams netted twice each. An own goal completed the shutout

scoring. On Sunday morning Diablo FC 01 faced Milan FC in a tense game as each team battled to advance to the Vampires division championship. Milan scored first, but Diablo FC boys battled back. At halftime, Milan had a 2 -1 lead with Haro netting for the home team. Coaches James Quijano and Paul Bockenkamp, filling in for Cooper away on college duty, gave a stirring halftime talk and Diablo FC was able to tie the 33 game with goals by Cooper Pauline and Bryan Rodriguez. The final berth came down to

See Kick or Treat page 11

The 14th annual Halloween Kick or Treat Classic is renowned for its soccer and also a fabulous costume contest. The under nine boys division winners were from the host Diablo FC. Coached by Joel Cazarez, Diablo FC 03 includes, front row from left, Christian Nomellini, Kevin Murguia, Anthony Lozano, Jack Simpkins, Mauro Ruiz, Dominick Rodriguez; back row, AB Lozano-Garcia, Killian Pollock, Davin Fabrizio, Jonathan Wence, Juanpablo Hernandez and Cesar Garcia.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

Sports baseball and softball academy

Lauren Ipsen helps Carondelet golf to 4th place at Tournament of Champions JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Clayton junior Lauren Ipsen helped her Carondelet High School golf team to a fourthplace finish at the North Coast Section Tournament of Champions last week. Carondelet just missed out on moving on to the Northern California Championships as only the top three teams qualified for NorCal and the Cougars East Bay Athletic League rivals Foothill took the third and final berth. Ipsen shot 84 to finish tied for second on the team with Blake Haverty behind the Cougars’ low scorer sophomore Sabby Virtusio, who carded a 77 at the Windsor Golf Course. Rounding out the Carondelet scoring total of 417 strokes were Kelly Ransom (85) and Morgan Allen (87). Clayton Valley Charter was in the tournament as two-time Diablo Valley Athletic League champions. Sisters McKenna DeLong (88) and Rachel Delong

(93) were top TOC performers for the Eagles. Carondelet’s fourth-place finish completes a strong season for Coach Rick Eisenhour’s squad. The coach has been leading the Cougars golf program for 14 years and they reached the NorCal meet for the third time. In 2006 they were second at NCS and third at the NorCal Championships. Eisenhour is only losing one senior, Allen, off this year’s squad so he expects Ipsen and mates to be a strong contender next year. Carondelet was 11-3 in dual meets in the strong EBAL. In addition they posted their lowest ever tournament score with a 401 at the Freedom Tournament in Brentwood where they finished third behind the top two teams at the TOC, Mission San Jose and Justin-Siena. Ipsen shot 81 there to finish behind Virtusio (71) and Haverty (78). Earlier in the fall they were fourth at the Deer Valley Tournament in Antioch and third at Monarch Bay in San Leandro.

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Casey Adams Wendy’s High School Heisman Award state finalist JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Senior Casey Adams of Clayton Valley Charter High School is one of 20 scholar athletes in California selected as a finalist for the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. Across the United States 45,000 athletes were nominated for the award with 2,677 coming from California. Ten boys and 10 girls were recently announced as finalists from our state. The sponsors say, “These finalists embody the Heisman spirit of hard work and dedication through their outstanding achievements in athletics, academics and community/school leadership.” Students who apply are judged on their academic

achievements, athletic accomplishments, community-leadership and involvement in various extracurricular activities during grades nine through 11. Adams has been a four-year varsity water polo starter for coach Dennis Bledsoe. She helped the Eagles earn a No. 3 seed in the North Coast Section playoffs this fall and she figures to earn her third straight all-Diablo Valley Athletic League honor. If Adams is successful in advancing to the next level as a state winner she will be on her way to Wendy’s donating $2,000-$10,000 to CVCHS in her name. For more information on the High School Heisman program visit wendyshighschoolheisman.com.

had a pair of shutouts on Saturday to reach the semi-finals. They blanked Palo Alto Thunder 5-0 and Sagebrush SC Ice Dragons of Nevada 6-0. Coach Gonzalez’ team then was defeated 3-1 by Union City Premier TOPS 3-1 in the semis. UC Premier won the finals 6-0 later Sunday. Ironically, Union City defeated Diablo FC 01 in last year’s U10 Kick or Treat finals. Find complete results and costume contest photos at diablofc.org.

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Kick or Treat, from page 10 goal differential and Diablo FC was able to advance to the finals by one goal. The championship game was against their neighbor and rival Walnut Creek Arsenal. Walnut Creek came out strong and was up 2–0 at halftime. With about 10 minutes left in the game, Mika Parodi fired a long-range shot to draw Diablo FC within one but Arsenal held on for the championship. The U11 girls, Diablo FC 01,

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Clayton junior Lauren Ipsen shot 84 to help the Carondelet High School golf team to a fourth-place finish at the North Coast Section Tournament of Champions last week. Ipsen just finished her third year on varsity and her coach Rick Eisenhour expects the Cougars to have a strong team again next year as they seek to earn a berth in the Northern California Championships.

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November 9, 2012

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MDSA World Cup teams advance on to season-ending Area Cup this weekend JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

The fall AYSO soccer season for Mt. Diablo Soccer Association came to a close at the end of October for the majority of the 60 teams in the under 10 through U14 age groups with the conclusion of the fourth annual World Cup tournament. However, the top MDSA World Cup teams still have some more mountains to conquer as they

take part in the AYSO Area 2C Cup this weekend where the locals will compete against PHMSA, Concord, Richmond, Stockton and American Canyon region opponents. Each MDSA age group was divided into pool play for the first two World Cup weekends to determine seeding going into the quarterfinals on the final Saturday of the Cup. Of the eight teams who were seeded first (two age groups had a tie Photos courtesy MDSA

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Team Guatemala coached by Janelle Adams and Spencer Williams defeated Haiti in the finals of the under 10 girls MDSA World Cup. The teams played a scoreless game and two overtime periods before Guatemala prevailed in penalty kicks. Both finalists and third-place Ecuador earned a spot in this weekend’s Area 2C Cup. The team includes, front row from left, Kelly Adams, Katelyn Walling, Tristel Arugay, Lily Wilcox, Megan Shipstead; back row, coach Williams, Mia Peterson, Emma Williams, Kylie Nielsen, Caleigh Olgeirson, Emilee Fife and coach Adams.

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Team Fiji coached by Jerry Bascom and Andy Byde shut out Puerto Rico 4-0 in the finals of the U12 girls MDSA World Cup. The champs include, kneeling from left, Noelle Lucas, Abby Byde, Isabella Gonzales, Rachel Burnett, Lindsey Smith, Catherine Richard, Amelia Bascom; standing, Carly Lynch, Jewel Triggs, Anjali Byrne, Natalee Galdamez, Mariah Dilelio and coach Byde. Not pictured, coach Bascom.

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Ireland came up green with a win in the championship match of the MDSA World Cup to claim the U12 boys crown. The team coached by Richard Sielman and Troy Amerine barely made it out of pool play as the next to last seed but went all the way to win the age group finale 3-2 over Colombia in a tense, exciting match. Team Ireland was, front row from left, Max Lehman, Josh Dulong, Eric Zimmer, Grant Sielman, Damon Amerine; back row, coach Amerine, Kevin Olson, Luke Taylor, Chris Miller, Thomas Kearney, Ethan Pacak, Michael Perez and coach Sielman.

for most points in pool play) only one was able to claim the World Cup championship on the final weekend as each age group went from eight teams to a champion through the quarterfinals, semi-finals and final game. The lone team that not only finished atop pool play but also won the championship match was the U14 boys England coached by Chris Snyder, which defeated Italy 4-3 in the finals. Italy had also been second in pool play. The top three teams in U10 and U12 divisions were invited to play in the Area Cup this weekend along with the top two U14 girls and U14 boys winning team. The U10 Ghana boys coached by Kevin Ross ended up 15-1 including regular season and World Cup games. Their only loss came in the first round of World Cup to Bolivia 4-3 but then they ran off six straight victories including a narrow 3-2 decision over Cuba in the finals. In U10 girls Guatemala and Haiti battled through a scoreless game and two overtime period before Guatemala won in a penalty kick shootout.

World Cup top four teams (and coach): U10 Girls 1. Guatemala - Janelle Adams 2. Haiti - Karen Amos 3. Ecuador - Shane Velez 4. Morocco - Patricia King U10 Boys 1. Ghana - Kevin Ross 2. Cuba - Clark Colvis 3. Bolivia - Paula Crawford 4. Switzerland - Jesse Glaves U12 Girls 1. Fiji - Jerry Bascom 2. Puerto Rico - Josh Harkness 3. Finland - Robert Waller 4. Argentina - Marvin Davis U12 Boys 1. Ireland - Richard Sielman 2. Colombia - Greg Ballardo 3. Poland - Werner Menard 4. Spain - Lisa Mendelsohn U14 Girls 1. China - Ken Lopes 2. Cameroon - Ruben Izon 3. Paraguay - Anthony Campos 4. Nicaragua - Pete Villa U14 Boys 1. England - Chris Snyder 2. Italy - Charles Schoffstall 3. Chile - Joern Weigelt 4. Senegal - Andrew Jackman

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All Out Sports is holding tryouts at Clayton Community Gym for Blaze girls volleyball club this Saturday 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.

DIABLO FC WINTER SOCCER ACADEMY ACCEPTING PLAYERS Diablo FC’s renowned 12th annual Winter Soccer Academy is taking signups now 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 DEADLINES SOON

Registration for the popular winter youth basketball and volleyball leagues at Clayton Community Gym is closing soon. 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 next Friday, Nov. 16, for volleyball and Tuesday, Nov. 20, for basketball at alloutsportsleague.com. Call 203-5626 for more info.

Kohler and her Olympic Quad bronze medal teammates Adrienne Martelli and Megan Kalmoe joined five members of the USA gold medal women’s eight to defeat an international field. Kohler is currently training with her Cal crew team preparing for her junior season which begins in the spring.

CV OFFERS YOUTH BASEBALL SKILLS CLINIC NOV. 23 Clayton Valley Charter High school baseball coach Casey Coakley is offering a youth baseball skills clinic on Friday, Nov. 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Concord school on the Thanksgiving weekend. Coakley has returned to CVCHS as varsity coach and he will be running the clinic along with his players, who are favored to once again reach the NCS playoffs next spring. Girls and boys six to 14 years of age can sign up now by emailing coach Coakley casey.coakley@claytonvalley.org.

CV 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 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 TRYOUTS IN JANUARY Diablo FC tryouts for the 2013 season for under 9 through under 11 competitive teams will be held in late 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.

KARA KOHLER HELPS USA WOMEN’S EIGHT ROW TO

10TH ANNUAL DIABLO FC CRAB FEED & AUCTION FEB. 8

CHAMPIONSHIP

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

In the first major international meet since the Olympics Clayton’s Kara Kohler was part of the USRowing women’s team that won the featured Championship Eight race at the 48th Head of the Charles Regatta in Cambridge, MA, the world’s largest two-day rowing event.

November 9, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 13

Clayton teen hopes to break record with blood drive PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer

Her life was saved by generous blood and platelet donations after a tragic accident as a toddler. Now, Molly Avilez wants to give back. “I don’t want to stop. I want to do as much for the Red Cross as I can,” 16-yearold Molly says. The blood drive on Nov. 27 at Diablo View Middle School is Molly’s fifth such effort. Her blood drives with the American Red Cross traditionally collect double and nearly triple the average collection of 40 units for the Bay Area. Molly’s goal for this drive is 174 units to not only flood the blood banks, but beat the largest single-day collection in the region of 172 units.

“I would be so excited to be the youngest blood drive sponsor and beat the record,” Molly says. Justin Mueller, director of Donor Resources Development for the Red Cross in Northern California, says, “She keeps raising the bar.” The Red Cross is prepared for 200 donors at Molly’s drive this month to insure appointments and walk-ins are accommodated. Eligibility testing is also available for future platelet donors. “Molly’s blood drive couldn’t have come at a better time,” Mueller says. There is a greater need for donors during the holidays and that is magnified by the affects of Hurricane Sandy. Three hundred blood drives were cancelled. Those numbers will only grow. Molly was crushed in an

accident as a child when she was backed over by the family vehicle. She lost more than 50 percent of her blood. Blood and platelet donations saved her life. She is eager to keep paying the gift forward. One blood donation can save up to three lives. Donors can prepare by including iron in their diet, being hydrated and bringing their ID to the drive. To donate, you must be 17 or older and meet weight/health requirements. The drive runs from 1:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. Call 800-7332767 or visit www.redcrossblood.org for more information. For appointments, use sponsor code MOLLY925.

FAMILY MEMBERS HELP MOLLY PAY THE GIFT OF LIFE-SAVING BLOOD DONATIONS FORWARd at her annual blood drives with the American Red Cross. Molly checks on her grandmother, Diane Avilez, during their donations at the January drive earlier this year.

Find a perfect holiday gift at the library

The Way We Were

Morgan Territory School In the late 1800s, just a little over two miles out Morgan Territory Road on a knoll next to Curry Creek Park, stood a little one-room schoolhouse. Morgan Territory settler

and rancher Jeremiah Morgan could neither read nor write. But, education was highly valued and schooling his offspring was very important. So, he donated some land and in 1888,

the Morgan Territory School opened. It was always a one room school and never employed more than one teacher. Its greatest enrollment was in 1870, when 32 students attended. But, it was always difficult finding a teacher willing to live so far out in the country and there were no rooms available to board a teacher. So, in 1947, the little school closed and the remaining 15 students rode a bus to Concord until Mt. Diablo Elementary School was completed later that year. The school building and land was given to the community for use as a meeting hall, but shortly after that, it was destroyed by fire and never rebuilt.

On the steps of the Morgan Territory School circa 1899 are, front row: Albert Morgan, unidentified, Lissy Morgan, Edith Olofson and Jerry Morgan; second row Bob Morgan, Sally Morgan, unidentified, Alice Morgan and Charlie Neary; standing in back was teacher Ellen Riley.

Let fireplaces wear a mantle of beauty embellished to create a visual centerpiece for your living space. So if the beloved family TV is not taking up this prime real estate, something fabulous and interesting has to go there…but what?

JENNIFER LEISCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR Fireplace mantels are more than “just a shelf.” They are the perfect place to hang a decorative mirror, provide a ledge for holiday stockings, offer a small perch for books and collectibles, and “the ultimate spot” for a flat screen TV. They can be adorned and

BOOKS As you all know, books are my go-to accessory for just about any living space. Just by stacking them on tables among framed photos, baubles and trinkets, books are an inexpensive way to add some décor. So instead of the paperback novels or extra large picture books, take your book décor one more step forward and dress your mantel with a collection of vintage leatherbound decorative books. Worn and distressed, English or for-

eign, found at an antique faire or purchased online, there’s something really nostalgic and cozy about having old or old-

looking books on a fireplace mantel.

See Mantels, page 14

On Saturday, Nov. 17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., The Library Foundation Board Members will be selling book bags for $10; Christmas ornaments for $12 or 2 for $20; red and blue T-shirts with the 94517 logo for $14 for adult shirts and $10 for children; and “Clayton Cooks…” a collection of favorite recipes, including some by local celebrities, at $5 per book at the Clayton Library. Other possible gift items include a Membership in the Clayton Community Library Foundation at $10 for an individual and $15 for a family, as well as several higher categories. Membership forms are available online and at the Library.

You may also honor someone special and “Buy a Brick,” which will be installed along the walkway. Cost is $55 for three lines of engraving, 20 characters per line. Forms are available at the Library or at www.claytonlibrary.org. Gift cards are available, too. Proceeds from the sale of all items are used to purchase new materials for the Clayton Community Library. All items are available in the lobby of the Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Monday and Wednesday, 1 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.

Salvation Army needs frozen turkeys for annual food basket drive The Salvation Army’s annual frozen turkey and food basket drive takes place Nov. 12 through Nov. 17. Drop off hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at The Salvation Army, 3950 Clayton Road, Concord. The number of families served last month tripled from 2005. The Salvation Army’s goal is to provide food baskets and frozen turkeys for every one of these families this year. Smaller frozen turkeys of 10 to 15 pounds fit the need best. Staples like peanut butter, canned meats, tuna and canned beans are helpful. Three options to help year

round are: 1) Make an electronic donation online at https://secure20.salvationarmy.org. Type “Concord, CA, Food Pantry 94521” in Specific Use box. 2): Send a check made out to: The Salvation Army, Concord, CA. Mail or drop off at The Salvation Army, 3950 Clayton Rd, Concord, CA 94521. 3) Donate food daily, Monday through Friday. There is always a need. For more information or to volunteer, contact Lauri Vint, social services director, at 676-6180, ext. 10 or Lauri.Vint@usw.salvationarmy.org.

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Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Mantels, from page 13 FOUND OBJECTS One of my most-favorite hobbies is antique shopping, and also where I find all of my “found” decorative objects. When I’m out and about, shopping for a designated mantel area, I look for big, interesting pieces. Old garden pieces are great for a mantle because they’re usually rusted and distressed, and of good size. Old distressed mirrors, empty decorative frames, baubles and urns are also great finds. I like to use the firebox opening as a good scale for

when I’m shopping for something decorative. The main item that will grace the mantel has to be at least the same size of the firebox opening, if not bigger. And then I like to flank this particular objet d’art with items of varying size and texture, until the mantel has a very organic and collected feel. LIGHTING Illuminate your mantle with a pair of candlestick lamps, hardwired sconces, recessed mini-light fixtures showering the shelf, or a collection of

candles – whatever you deem appropriate for the design of your living space and the scale of your mantel. Regardless of the fireplace location in a living space (dead center of the living room, used as a backdrop in a dining room, tucked away in the corner) a fireplace mantel has this unique way of commanding attention, so don’t resist. Give in and create a story on your mantel using an interesting mix of eclectic finds. 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

November 9, 2012

Festival Opera production explores the faces of affliction in “About Face” What began as a tragedy became the dramatic theme for Festival Opera’s production, About Face — an opera experience. In 2007, the beautiful and talented Bay Area soprano Heidi Moss was stricken with Bell’s palsy, resulting in permanent facial paralysis, a double tragedy for a very public performer. Heidi struggled but rose above her affliction, continued her successful opera career and became a spokesperson for facial paralysis. Act One explores the psychological effects of affliction,

acceptance and compassion with a multimedia experience that blends classic opera and creative screen projections. The production incorporates classic opera arias from “La Traviata” and “Rigoletto” with a new work, “Mister Merrick,” based on the life of the so-called “Elephant Man.” Act Two features a performance of the contemporary chamber opera “The Face on

the Barroom Floor” by Henry Mollicone. This imaginative story tells two tales, separated by a century, of a femme fatale, and mysteriously links the characters of both tales with a surprising twist of fate. “About Face — an opera experience” will have two performances at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek on Wednesday, Dec. 5, at 4 and 8 p.m. For ticket information, go to festivalopera.org.

Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. NOV. 14 FOR THE NOV. 23 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com Dec. 2 Classical Guitar Holiday Concert

IN CLAYTON Nov. 12 AAUW General Meeting Clayton branch of American Association of University Women general meeting with Gay Gerlack presenting fashion show of jackets, coats and wraps made with little to no sewing. 7:30 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. claytonaauw.org.

Dec. 1 Annual Caroling and Tree Lighting Downtown festivities. 6 p.m. Grove Park to Main and Oak Streets, Clayton. Free. Clayton Business and Community Association 6722272.

EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Thru Nov. 10 “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”

Performance by Marten Falk. 2:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 3 Hospice Tree of Lights Annual ceremony. 5:30 p.m. John Muir Medical Center parking lot, East Street and Almond Avenue, Concord. Donations accepted. Hospice of the East Bay. 887-5678.

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.

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

Nov. 12 - 17 Food Drive

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.

Evening of comedy combining wit, intellect, satire and just plain fun. Diablo Actors’ Ensemble, 1345 Locust St., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. diabloactors.com.

Frozen turkey and food basket drive. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Bring frozen turkeys and canned goods to The Salvation Army, 3950 Clayton Road, Concord. For more information or to volunteer, contact Lauri Vint, social services director, at 676-6180, ext. 10 or Lauri.Vint@usw.salvationarmy.org.

Meets 9:30 a.m. second Tuesday of the month except July and August, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. 672-9448.

Thru Nov. 17 “The Underpants”

Nov. 17, 18 Holiday Boutique

Brilliant celebration of music, color and words. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40-49. ccmt.org.

Thru Nov. 17 “All in the Timing”

Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association

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.

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club annual holiday crafts and bake sale. Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sun. 1 – 4 p.m. Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

Thru Nov. 18 “Status Update”

Nov. 27 Blood Drive Molly’s “Pay It Forward” blood drive. 1:30 – 7:30 p.m. Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. redcrossblood.org, sponsor code MOLLY925.

Nov. 11 Concert

Nov. 30 Holiday Fair

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. 12 Stroke Support Group Speaker Lindsay Visocchi will discuss California Relay Telephone Services. 7 – 9 p.m. Concord Room at John Muir Medical Center, 2540 East St., Concord. Free. Contact Ann Dzuna 376-6218.

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 flautist Annie Wu. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 27 Annual Holiday Concert Performed by Walnut Creek Concert Band. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$17. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 Story of the Nutcracker Contra Costa Ballet’s hour-long narrated version of the holiday classic is perfect for children. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $23-$33. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 1 Sing-a-bration, The World Tour Musical extravaganza featuring award-winning Diablo Vista Chorus. 2:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17.75. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

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

Holiday gift and craft fair featuring handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, baked goods and more. Sponsored by Concord Parks and Recreation 50 and Better Program. 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle, Concord. Free admission. 6713320.

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

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

Tuesdays thru Nov. 27 Patty Cakes

Nov. 16 - 17 “A Swingin’ Holiday”

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

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.

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.

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club

Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. 11 a.m.

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. 15 Clayton Reads

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

Diablo Valley Democratic Club Meets 7-9 p.m. third Wednesday of the month, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road., Walnut Creek. dvdems.org, 9460469.

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.

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

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.

Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise

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

Nov. 15 Tell Your Own Story Make your own picture book for children ages 4 – 9. Registration required. 673-0659.

Nov. 17 Gift Sale Book bags, ornaments, shirts, gift cards and more on sale in time for holiday giving by Library Foundation. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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.

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 6391987.

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

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

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.

November 9, 2012

Clayton Pioneer â&#x20AC;˘ www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 15

Theatre

Dukakis back at A.C.T. in new interpretation of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Elektraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Jeff Ellingson photo

OLYMPIA DUKAKIS as the fiercely partisan Chorus Leader in Carey Perloffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sweeping production of Sophoclesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Greek tragedy Elektra â&#x20AC;&#x201C; featuring a speciallycommissioned new translation by London playwright Timberlake Wertenbaker.

Direct from its sold-out premiere in Los Angeles, American Conservatory Theater will bring A.C.T. Artistic Director Carey

Perloff â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sweeping production of Sophoclesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Greek tragedy Elektra â&#x20AC;&#x201C; featuring Academy Award winner Olympia Dukakis, reuniting the team that brought Bay Area audiences the 1995 critically acclaimed, smashhit production of Euripidesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hecuba.â&#x20AC;? Clocking in at an intense 90 minutes, this new interpretation of the timeless Greek tragedy is a fast-paced thriller â&#x20AC;&#x201C; of epic proportions. Love and revenge take center stage in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Elektra.â&#x20AC;? After her father, King Agamemnon, is murdered by her mother and her motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lover, Elektra is consumed by grief and fiercely intent on revenge. Every day, she prays to the gods that her exiled brother, Orestes, might return to help her avenge their fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s death, and every night, the silence of the gods drives her closer to madness. As Sophoclesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; iconic tragedy depicts humanity in its most extreme behavior, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Elektraâ&#x20AC;? engages the audience as judge and jury â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a stark reminder that we are all witnesses to our shared history. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Elektraâ&#x20AC;? performs a limited

run through November 18 at A.C.T.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Geary Theater, 415 Geary Street, San Francisco.

Tradition continues with CenterREPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A Christmas Carolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

FOR

THE

BOOKS

Young Michael is a little in love with Gisella Marrosi, second daughter of the neighboring family; he holds up Gisellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brother, Joe, as a hero. The Marrosi family is loud and happy and Italian, and the Kohler family is swept into the embrace of their collective joy. The wonderful thing about a child as narrator is that elements of a story appear without context, and therefore are not fully understandable. As a boy, Michael is exposed to pieces of what will create his life story, parts that he does not fathom but that will form the basis of the man he will become. He does not understand the cruel conditions of the patients at the State Home, he merely describes them and leaves it up to the reader to know. He does

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ringing in Christmasâ&#x20AC;?

Saturday, December 1

Appetizers and wine at 6:00 Dinner, dessert, entertainment follow Live music, gift basket & quilt raffle & â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tree Farm Boutiqueâ&#x20AC;? Tickets must be purchased in advance. Rosemary Francis, Chair: 925-818-3911

Reserved seating, $40 per person All proceeds benefit St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish

St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Rd, Clayton

Christmas just wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be Christmas without the redemptive tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. Hailed by critics as â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;ŚTHE â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Christmas Carolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to see in the Bay Area,â&#x20AC;? CenterREPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Christmas Carolâ&#x20AC;? comes back to the Lesher Center for its fifteenth year, with Bay Area favorite Mark Anderson Phillips

Making sense of a troubled Sonoma childhood

CYNTHIA GREGORY

St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish presents

Social Evening & Fundraiser

Book Review

As any good coming-of-age novel, Peter Kahleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Passage of the Kissing Peopleâ&#x20AC;? (74th Street Productions) walks between two worlds. When 50-year-old Michael Kohler is called to Sonoma County from Seattle to build stained glass windows for an Episcopal church, he finds the project stirs memories that he had successfully buried for years. Michael returns to the Valley of the Moon for the first time in decades, and confronts the truth of what drove his family from Sonoma all those years ago. Michael is just a boy when his father takes a job at the Sonoma State Home for the Feeble Minded in the early 1950s. His family lives in pastoral Sonoma, where the land is comprised mainly of ranches and farms: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sonoma is a word with a grand sound to it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all open vowels and nasal consonants. It can be murmured with passion, but it also shouts well. Sonoma tastes of hot dust and toasted grass. It blazes with light. The sky in Sonoma is a dark blue force that twists the branches of the oak trees like the limbs of the cerebral palsy patients at the old State Home. Sonoma holds the sound of quail calling in the long golden dusk. . . â&#x20AC;?

Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased online at act-sf.org or by calling 415-749-2228.

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

not say that Joe Marrosi is bipolar; he describes Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manic behavior as it escalates to a crescendo and how the local police are called to haul Joe to â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Home,â&#x20AC;? where he will be medicated into a stupor. While in a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world little sense is made of the adult structures around them, superstitions loom large; a lucky charm carries great meaning. Before the Kohler familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sudden exodus from Sonoma, Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father loses the talisman from his keychain and accidents begin to stack up. In a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way, Michael wants to make things better, and so takes Mama Marrosiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lucky talisman, a brooch of two people kissing. He doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think about it, he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t plan it. He finds the piece of jewelry between the cushions of the sofa, and pockets it. Bad things continue to happen, culminating with the Kohler familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exile from the Valley of the Moon. Years later, a grown Michael returns to Sonoma and pulls together the fragments of his lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story, where he can finally make sense of it all. Cynthia Gregory writes book reviews, award-winning short stories and a blog. Visit her at www.twogirlstakeonlove.com or write cgregory111@gmail.com

as the miserly, joyless Scrooge. Director Scott Denison directs the ensemble of new faces and old pros, from the tragically doomed Jacob Marley to the incurably optimistic Tiny Tim. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Christmas Carolâ&#x20AC;? is Charles Dickensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; enduring and inspiring tale of Ebenezer Scroogeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transformation and redemption after meeting a series of ghosts one Christmas Eve. Theatergoers of all ages will enjoy this traditional holiday treat which opens Dec. 8 with 16 performances. Tickets are expected to sell out fast. To buy tickets, which start at $41, call (925) 943-7469. Center REPertory Company, the resident professional theatre company of the Lesher Center for the Arts (LCA), celebrates its 46th Subscription Season of high-quality theatrical productions during 2012/2013.

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Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 9, 2012

Bridal Gowns Bridesmaid & Flower Girl Dresses Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses Prom & Special Occasion gowns Quinceanera Gowns Now offering

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Tuxedo Rentals & Gown Preservation

8861 Marsh Creek Rd, Clayton Bonded and Fully Insured CCC Certified Fire abatement

Candlelight, bubbly help create festive holiday parties NINA VOSS Special to the Pioneer

Lic. #642272 Certified Arborist WE-3386A

www.waranerbrostree.com ARE

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!

Creating a memorable holiday celebration can be simple and fun. Whether you are hosting an intimate dinner party or a house full or party-goers, make your soiree one not to be missed. Ambiance is key. Set the mood by dimming the lights in your home ( after all, don’t we all look better in candlelight?). Lots of votives and white candles are an easy addition to transform any home for the holidays. Fill vases and hurricane glasses with fresh cranberries

peppers and cutting into long rectangles or short wedges. Add a few variations to create your very own Grilled Cheese Bar.

Pioneer Guide to Holiday Shopping

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

Abbey Carpet & Floor: There is nothing

The UPS Store

Independently owned and operated

Holiday Hours: M-F 8-7, Sat. 9-5 Open Sunday Dec. 9 & 16, 10 - 3 Our friendly staff will help you get your gifts packaged and delivered on time, safe & sound. Notary, Stamps, Postal, Copy & Fax Services also available.

Clayton/Concord Location: Vineyard Shopping Center, (next to Lucky) 5100 Clayton Rd, Concord, 925-689-6245

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that brightens up your home for the holidays more than new floor covering. Imagine walking into your home and seeing new carpet, wood, tile or vinyl on your floors. We have an outstanding selection of all types of flooring to choose from. Even Santa will be surprised at how beautiful your home can look!

Blessed Brides is a mother- daughter- owned business, which opened April 1, 2011. We are a women's bridal and formal wear store for average and above-average-sized women. Our idea is that anyone who walks in can try on a dress and have it be an enjoyable experience. Our

November 17 & 18 Hours: Sat. 10-5pm, Sun. 10-3pm

Fall Faire Holiday Shopping Arts and Crafts Commercial Vendors Gourmet Food Trucks by Off the Grid of San Francisco

and a few sprigs of fresh evergreen and place around the living room and dining areas. Pick an upbeat, festive playlist during cocktails and swanky lounge tunes for dinner – whatever you choose, remember that music makes the party. Tidy your home using decorative baskets, which make it easy to consolidate clutter, and close rooms “off limits” to the party. Forget the chips and dip. Arrange cheeses, salami, mini pickles, olives and gourmet crackers on platters. Amp up an average grilled cheese by spreading pesto on crusty rosemary sourdough bread, adding smoked gouda and roasted red

boutique offers designer wedding gowns, mother-ofthe-bride, bridesmaid and prom dresses.

Fall Faire at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds Kick off the holiday season at the annual Fall Faire at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds on Nov. 17 and 18 with gift shopping and fun feasting. There is something for everyone on the holiday list. Unique gifts and crafts from vendors and local businesses give shoppers a chance to purchase quality hand-made holiday items and a variety of jewelry, clothing, woodworking and novelties. Gourmet Food Trucks are a new addition this year, rolling in to feed the famished.

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. Got packages to mail? Pressed for time? Stop by The UPS Store in the Vineyard Shopping Center and let owner Tricia Tamura and her knowledgeable staff help get your gifts delivered safely and on time. They also assist with copies, FAXing, Notary Services, Passport photos, Mailboxes, Document Services and Binding.

Free Parking Tickets: Adults: $3 Children (12 and under): Free Ride the bus and save $1 on admission

See Parties, page 17

We are Ivalina and Adelio, the father-daughter team that has owned and operated Memo’s since 2003. We are passionate about the restaurant and very proud of the distinct, unique dishes we offer our guests. Our deep appreciation for exceptional quality is noticeable in every thing we do. Every dish is made from scratch of the freshest ingredients. We look forward to serving you for special events, holidays and anytime you feel like stopping in for a great dinner.

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.”

Father and Daughter Owned & Operated T HE H OUSE

Holiday Special

P IPIAN

10% off

at the Fairgrounds in

Antioch

Always create a signature cocktail – there are so many to

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(valid for 10 people or more)

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Adelio and Ivalina