2012_Clayton_Pioneer_1221 by Pioneer Publishers

hristmas and MerryaC H ppy New Year

to all of you from all of us

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

925.672.0500

Tragedy sends shock waves around the world PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

Even though Clayton is more than 3,000 miles away from Newtown, Conn., most residents here felt the horror from back there last Friday like a kick in the gut. Parents, teachers, grandparents,

business people and even journalist fought hard to stay on course after hearing of the mass shooting that left 28 people dead – 20 of them first graders. “It’s just unbelievable,” said Mt. Diablo Elementary School Principal Irene Keenan soon after seeing her students off

campus last Friday afternoon. “Schools should be – are – safe, but in this case, they weren’t.” Keenan was still reeling, having received the news in bits and pieces. But she said all her staff was as devastated as the rest of the country, but perhaps more so because they work daily to make

Mount Diablo a safe and happy place for its students. She, like the rest of the site administrators in the Mount Diablo Unified School District, received notice from Supt. Steven Lawrence’s office almost immediately after school, reiterating the district’s already tight

security measures. Keenan said that although no parents took their students out of class after learning about the massacre on the other side of the country, she did receive several worried phone calls. “Parents just wanted reassurance.” In Mt. Diablo schools, fairly

stringent security is in place: visitors are required to check in at school offices, and volunteers must be fingerprinted. Still, even the tight “buzz-in” system that Sandy Hook Elementary used couldn’t stop the deranged killer,

See Tragedy, page 4

Eighth grader’s lens captures memorable images of historic CVCHS football season JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

JULIE PIERCE

MAYOR’S CORNER

Burning up over fire station closure It is with great frustration that we learned Clayton’s only Fire Station, Station 11, is to be among the first four sacrificial stations as the Contra Costa Fire District struggles to meet their budget after the defeat of Measure Q last month. Former Mayor Howard Geller testified at the first hearing and we all wrote and spoke to our Supervisors about the serious impacts closing our only station would

CLAYTON EIGHTH GRADER JASON ROGERS has been a fixture on the sidelines of Clayton Valley football games the past two years with camera equipment in tow. The Diablo View Middle School student has compiled an unprecedented record of the Eagles’ historic 2012 season.

See Mayor, page 8

Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Charter high School

New businesses spark new hope for downtown TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

JOHN CANESA AND BRIEN CENNA HAVE BEEN WORKING at a frantic pace get Canesa’s Brooklyn Deli open by January. Even the kids have been put to work. Daniel Cenna helps take up the old flooring.

Canesa’s Brooklyn Deli is back in town. The popular deli, which used to share space with Cup O Joe on Main Street plans to re-open it’s doors in early January in the space recently vacated by Hair by Jim “We’re baaaack,” crowed John Canesa who has been working as a supervisor at the Plate & Vine in the Concord Hilton since closing the Main Street location in November 2011. The menu is the same, the

only thing different will be the decor. “It’s gonna look like a New York subway station,” he said before correcting himself with a laugh. “Nah, I mean a New

The three-year long felony embezzlement saga for former insurance broker and one-time city councilman Joe Medrano should have come to an end at his sentence hearing on Dec. 12.

Instead, it has been postponed until Dec. 31. A tardy defense attorney left the exasperated judge less than half an hour to hear arguments from prosecutor Sherron

Lee and defense attorney Kenneth Moyal. Additionally, there were supporting documents missing from Medrano’s written statement. Medrano was convicted on Oct. 11 of embezzling $159,630

See Medrano, page 3

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Community Calendar . . . . . .15 Design and Décor . . . . . . . .17 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5

LEGACY OF A MAGICAL SEASON

York train station.” The new place will have counter seating inside and picnic tables outside.

It started in the heat of the summer when Jason photographed and videoed

See Canesa’s, page 9

See Lens, page 13

Local bakers bring plenty of sugar and spice to Pioneer Christmas Cookie Contest

Sentencing delayed for Joe Medrano TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

“Jason is unbelievable! The most unselfish and reliable kid I have ever met!” Clayton Valley Charter High School head football coach Tim Murphy wasn’t talking about one of his champion Eagles players or even a student at the Concord school. Instead he was describing an unassuming Diablo View Middle School student, Jason Rogers. The Clayton eighth grader has never played organized football but has been observing the Clayton Valley program the past three years while his older brother Justin Rogers has been playing for the Eagles and performing quite well. Justin has been a first team All-Diablo Valley Athletic League center during his sophomore and junior years. Rather than just being a fan in the stands, Jason Rogers started photographing and videotaping Clayton Valley games last year. They were so well received that when Murphy took over the coaching reins in the spring word quickly got to him about this budding Bud Greenspan in his midst.

THE JUDGES WORKED HARD TO CHOOSE the best of the best of 30 entries in the Pioneer Christmas Cookie Contest, Dec. 13. Clockwise, Nicole Hackett, Chief Chris Thorsen, Molly DeSeelhorst, Linda Wyner, Bob Rodenburg and Olivia Yoshii. Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . . . .19 Holiday Guide . . . . . . . . . .10 Obituary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .17 PHMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . . .7 Police Activity Report . . . . . . .9 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

As darkness and a bitter cold descended on the town on Dec. 13, local bakers busied themselves in their warm kitchens, mixing and measuring ingredients to sweeten the night for the Clayton Pioneer’s Ninth Annual Christmas Cookie Contest at the Clayton Community Library. This year saw some of the best of the best recipes ever entered, not to mention the biggest turnout in the history of the event. With the judging table creaking and groaning under the weight of 30 delectable holiday treats, the six judges, including

See Cookie, page 18 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Sports Shorts . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

Around Town French team helps Foster a Dream

New chief gets pinned by wife was to serve as Oakley’s chief of police. Thorsen lives in Walnut Creek with Ann, an accountant,

and their daughter who is a junior at CVCHS. They also have a son at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo.

Olivia Rapicavoli enlists in Army Reserve

Peacock Creek ladies take tea at holiday party

Windermere Lynne French & Associates team members Angelique Booth, managing Broker; Stacy Hengemihle, Buyer’s Agent; and Lynne French, Realtor/Owner, spent the afternoon of Dec. 8 supporting Foster A Dream’s 10th annual “Winter Wonderland.” This event celebrates and rewards foster parents in the Bay Area and treats foster children to a “dreamland” filled with lights, toys, portraits with Santa, cookie decorating and games for all ages.

Ann Thorsen pins the new police chief ’s badge on husband Chris Thorsen as he takes the oath of office at the Dec. 4 City Council meeting. Chief Thorsen’s first day of duty was Nov. 30. He comes to Clayton from a 26-year career with the Contra Costa County Sheriff ’s Department where one of his most recent assignments

Casey Adams City swears in new councilmembers receives scholastic honors

Councilmembers Julie Pierce, Howard Geller and Jim Diaz tookthe oath of office at the Dec. 4 council meeting. Pierce is returning to the council for a sixth term; Geller for a second and Diaz will be serving his first term. The council elected Pierce as mayor and Stratford as vice-mayor. Stratford is in his second term on the council.

CVCHS senior Casey Adams was recognized for superior academic achievement by the National Society of High School Scholars. The NSHSS encourages members of the organization to apply their unique talents, vision, and potential for the betterment of themselves and the world and provides scholarship opportunities for deserving young people.

The ladies of Peacock Creek know how to throw a party. For the second year in a row, the neighborhood group gathered for Holiday Tea. This year, the event was on Dec. 10 at the beautifully decorated home of Lynne Ellyn. The tables were lavishly set with white satin and red roses with bone china and sterling silver. An antique red glass goblet sat at each place. Pictured are Lynne Ellyn, center; from left Gail O’Brien, Camelia Vlasache, Terri Swanson, Eileen Weiler, Judy Roberts, Terry Chisolm, Amal Shihabi, Theresa Jordan, Toni Hegemier, Susan Kennedy, Susie Dawes, Laura Villano, Peggy Payne, Rosie Straka, Kahni Horton, Wendy Vance, Jeanine Blatter. Photo courtesy Lynne Ellyn.

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Olivia Rapicavoli, Clayton resident and 2011 CSF graduate of Berean Christian High School, Walnut Creek recently graduated from Army basic combat training at Fort Sill, Okla. She has started Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at the Military Intelligence School at Fort Huachuca, Ariz. After completing Military Occupational Training (MOS) Olivia will return to her Army reserve unit where she will continue her college education. Serving in the military has been Olivia’s desire since high school and she considers it an honor to serve her country in this capacity.

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December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Bay Area Crisis Nursery thrives with volunteer help JOHN JACKSON Clayton Pioneer

When the Smith family lost everything in a flood on the East Coast, they headed west at the invitation of a friend. They simply wanted to start anew after a life and family-altering crisis. Upon arriving in the Bay Area, the unemployed mother and father ended up in an East Bay shelter with their 2-yearold boy, hoping for a warm place to sleep and shower. The mother was also expecting their second child. They deeply wanted to dig out of the poverty they now found themselves in, but daily survival with their little one seemed a near overwhelming task in itself. It was at this desperate point that the Smith family discovered the Bay Area Crisis Nursery (BACN) in Concord. The BACN is a residential care facility for young families that operates to give support and care to children, age birth to 5, during times of stress, crisis or emergency. The clients often bring their children in for 48hour visits as a result of homelessness, domestic violence,

medical emergencies or substance abuse problems. Others find help from the center to attend to family business, search for employment or hunt for family housing. At times of the year such as holidays, the BACN is always busy.

planned” and that Medrano has not taken any steps to compensate the victim. In 2009 iPass Corporation sent two separate checks for $79,815 each to Medrano to pay the company’s Workers Compensation premiums. Instead of forwarding the money to Travelers Insurance, Medrano kept it in lieu of fees and commissions he said the company owed him

$619,000

iPass’ loss when they discovered the theft. “We were forced to play the role of chump,” said David DeMordaunt, an attorney for Travelers who spoke at the sentencing. “We were left holding the bag,” He said Medrano has not shown any contrition or willingness to pay restitution. Restitution was clearly a big issue for the judge, who twice asked the defense if Medrano intended to pay back the money. Moyal said Medrano plans to make restitution, but did not

offer any specifics. The judge said he was “troubled” by Medrano’s written statement. “He just doesn’t seem to get it,” he said. “The problem is he still feels justified in taking the money. He presents himself as an innocent victim.” The defense is asking for probation, arguing that Medrano has been punished enough. He was forced to step down as a city councilman and vice-mayor after his conviction and his

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insurance license was revoked by the Department of Insurance. “He’s lost his very profitable business, his political career is over, and his reputation is tarnished,” said Moyal. “He’s on Google forever.” The judge said he would review the missing documents before imposing final sentence on Dec. 31, but cautioned Medrano to “put his affairs in order be prepared to surrender that day.”

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for work he did on their Directors and Officers Liability Insurance earlier in the year. After discovering inconsistencies in Medrano’s proposal, however, iPass placed the D&O insurance with another company and fired Medrano. It was later that iPass sent the Workers Compensation premiums to Medrano who kept the money and allowed iPass’ Workers Compensation policy to lapse. Because Travelers was the underwriter, they covered

SOL

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the care of the child and family is evident throughout the entire home-like center. Each age group has their own room to sleep in at night. The rooms are spotless and adorably decorated, each furnished with a rocking chair in case one of the children

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The nursery uses each unique situation as an opportunity to focus on the best interest of the child and his or her safety. “Our whole goal is to prevent child abuse before it happens,” says Program Manager Tamille Davis. This detailed attention to

‘MIRACLE MAKEOVER’ The Bay Area Crisis Nursery was created by Sister Ann Weltz in 1981. “I had worked at a crisis nursery during the summer,” she says. “I saw what it could do for families, and saw what it could do to keep kids safe. And then I started this one.” Twenty-five years later, the Mendocino Drive facility was in disrepair and needed a facelift. That’s when the BACN completed what Sister Ann calls a Miracle Makeover. “On Sept. 11, 2006, they bulldozed the entire building in 14 minutes. And 21 days later on that same exact spot, we admitted the first child to the brand new facility.”

TWO BOYS DO SOME FUN “HOUSECLEANING” as a part of their playtime at the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. The children at the BACN are given a warm family environment while parents are given the time to deal with the stresses of life.

Medrano, from page 1 from a former client. After an eight-day trial, the jury returned the verdict in less than three hours. San Mateo County prosecutor Sherron Lee is asking for the maximum sentence of four years – three for embezzlement and an additional one year because the amount was “excessive.” She said the crime was “sophisticated and well-

The result of that “miracle” today is a warm, child-friendly environment where volunteers and staff can nurture kids while their parents handle stressful situations. “This is a safe place for families to bring their kids,” says Sister Ann. “It’s a place where they can be sure they’re well taken care of. They don’t have to worry about it; they can take care of what’s causing the problem or the crisis. They can get the break they need to get themselves together to go on raising their kids.” The most commonly heard phrase around the BACN is, “We could not operate this place without our volunteers.” A virtual army of volunteers carries a huge load of work at the center, filling all types of positions and covering the critical three-hour shifts in the nursery each day with the children. “They are wonderful,” says Sister Ann of the volunteers. Around this holiday season, Sister Ann is certainly not the only one who feels that way.

has a difficult time sleeping. When new arrivals are checked in, the intake process is meticulous – including a bath, diaper change, bruise check, measure and fresh set of clothes. The kitchen is beautifully furnished and well-stocked with food for the children. Each meal is freshly prepared by the staff and volunteers of the nursery. The volunteers of the BACN are all fingerprinted and carefully screened.

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Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

Newtown tragedy, from page 1

Tamara Steiner

The Circle of Peace statue in the park seemed a fitting place to remember the children who died in the tragic shooting in Newtown last week.

who broke through the entry windows. “During times of tragedy it is paramount that site administrators and other staff members are highly visible in order to reassure parents that our schools are safe places,” Lawrence told his principals, adding that schools should ensure visitors wear badges, asking teachers to meet children at the classroom doors, then lock them after everyone has entered. He encouraged volunteer “parent patrols,” complete with walkie-talkies, to communicate with the school office. In addition, principals should continually review the site safety plan. That is of particular interest to newly sworn-in MDUSD board member Brian Lawrence, himself a father of three young kids. “When I was on the site council at Monte Gardens, we worked hard to get an emergency plan in place,” he said. “And we need to

keep improving it.” He is also a big proponent of using social media to get information out to parents and the community, and says one of his first objectives as a board member will to help establish MDUSD Twitter and Facebook pages.”It’s a way to disseminate information, and knock down false rumors.” Still, one of the hardest things parents and educators face in the coming months is convincing kids that they are safe at their school. “What do I say to my fourth grader so that she’s not paranoid to sit in her classroom every day?” asks Concord parent George Giatzis, who has three kids in MDUSD schools. To that end, the district suggests having teachers and parents review the California Department of Education’s website, w w w. c d e . c a . g o v / l s / s s / cp/tragedy.asp, which offers

LEIGH KLOCK

some good tips on helping children deal with all sorts of stress. Pioneer columnist Dr. Stephanie Ho, PhD, LCSW, recommends an online resource from parenting expert Dr. Laura Markham of Aha! Parenting: w w w. a h a p a r e n t i n g . c o m / _blog/Parenting_Blog/post/ How_To_Talk_with_Kids_ about_Tragedies_Like_School_S hooting. Most tips include reassuring kids that events like the Sandy Hook shooting are very rare, and they will be safe, and not to overwhelm them with media images of the tragedy. Still, while the television talk shows and local media have been full of therapists offering good guidance, Mount Diablo’s Keenan has probably the simplest advice for parents: “Tell your kids what you think they should know. Trust your instincts.”

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December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

AND

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

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

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There will be no Clayton Counts Down this year, the city announced earlier this month. Attendance to the free family event has been dropping off the past few years but the costs have not. The 2010 census data reveal show fewer than 1,200 school age children in Clayton and there has been a significant drop in the underfive age group. The event simply got too expensive and benefitted too few, explained

R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers

PIONEER INFO

Directory of Advertisers

City cancels New Years Eve event; plans something new

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

Page 5

Mayor Julie Pierce. The city is exploring ideas for a different kind of familyfocused event, Pierce said. “Perhaps an early concert in the fall with a pot luck in the park would be fun .” “Planning is still fluid,” she said. “So, if anyone has any ideas or wants to help, let me know.”

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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.

Dentistry

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 250 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter in a Word document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.

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Boy Scouts to ‘tree-cycle’ Christmas trees on Jan. 6 On Sunday, Jan. 6, Boy Scout Troop 484 will conduct its annual Treecycling event in Clayton, picking up Christmas trees for recycling as they have done for nearly 20 years. Unique to this

STEPHEN CUFF, BRINLEY OWEN AND MATTHEW LINDHOLM unload trees during a previous Treecycling event. Allied Waste brings chippers to the drop-off site the following week to recycle the trees.

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event, residents can show their support by making donations directly to the troop. The Scouts have fun during the tree collection and use the money for troop activities throughout the year such as for summer camp and kayaking in Monterey. The troop performs several service projects for Clayton such as volunteering at the Art and Wine Festival, Library Book Move and Oktoberfest. Donate directly to the scouts as they pick up trees or mail a check payable to: BSA Troop 484, 807 Savignon Court, Clayton, CA 94517. Please do not leave a check or any cash on the tree itself. For more information, contact Ken Frey at 323-1524 or kjfrey1701@yahoo.com.

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Hospice of the East Bay Help needed at Hospice of the East Bay Concord Thrift Shoppe located at 5350 Clayton Road, Concord. 674-9072. For information contact Carmen Siems, volunteer coordinator at 887-5678 or carmens@hospiceeastbay.org.

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Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter for two hours per month from 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays or Sundays. Call the museum at 672-0240 and leave your name. Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Minimum age 13. Minimum commitment is 6 months. Some training provided. Contact: Arlene at 673-9777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com.

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Kindness Do the Right Thing

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

Obituary

Charter High campus will be a busy place Michael Joseph Urso with construction over long holiday break July 31, 1944 – December 1, 2012

Michael Joseph Urso, 68 of Concord, died on Dec. 1, after a long illness. He was surrounded by his family. Michael was born in New Britain, Conn., on July 31, 1944, the third child of Helen and Frank Urso. After graduating high school, he joined the Air Force and served overseas until

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ending in Germany with the rank of staff sergeant. He worked as a grocery manager for Food Mart Corp. where he met Patricia McCluskey. The couple wed in September of 1975. In 1992, he moved with his family to Concord. There he worked for Valent Corporation as a facilities manager while starting his own cleaning company. He enjoyed watching his children participate in sports and music activities and spending time outdoors with his family. He is survived by his wife Patricia (Pat), son Brendan, daughter Janice and a large, extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents Helen and Frank, his daughter Brittany Mary Urso and his in-laws Thomas and Pauline McCluskey.

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One of the most significant things Clayton Valley Charter High School did in planning its first year as a charter school – outside the policies and programs of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District – was to come up with a new school schedule. One feature of this school year was a mid-August start date that allowed the first semester to be completed before the traditional holiday break, which was expanded to three weeks from Dec. 22 through Jan. 13. For this year at least the Concord campus won’t be quiet during that break period as several major MDUSD-funded Measure C projects are scheduled so that students coming back to school in 2013 will find several new features. Red lockers, two new chemistry labs, new black artificial turf in Gonsalves Stadium and, hopefully, a new scoreboard in Dan Della Gymnasium are expected additions. Although the Charter Governing Board and administration now runs the school and provides its own contract maintenance, the facilities are all owned by MDUSD. As such the school is still benefitting from the many programs funded through Measure C, a $348 million General Obligation Bond measure passed by the voters in June 2010. The first and most visible result of Measure C was the installation of solar panels at all MDUSD sites. Clayton Valley and the other five high schools in the district were each able to choose sitespecific projects of over $6 million. Some of those will be in full use come the new year at CVCHS. Artificial turf went into the stadium in 2004, a year after field lights were installed at the school, which opened in 1958. The turf is used by CVCHS football, soccer, lacrosse and

track and field teams. Additional youth sports groups – CVAA Falcons football, Diablo FC soccer and St. Bonaventure CYO track and field – also make use of the turf. CVCHS Operations Director Pat Middendorf says that at least three physical education classes are on the field and surrounding running track every class period of the day. The new turf installation is scheduled to be done by Jan. 14. During the construction period the school’s soccer teams will move all their games to the opposing team’s home field. RED AND BLACK The turf is the latest version of FieldTurf. In concert with the student body, CVCHS officials decided not to install the traditional green turf everyone is used to seeing but rather black turf. The field is permanently lined for both football, lacrosse and soccer. MDUSD negotiated an eight-year warranty (four is the norm) and hopes that with some TLC the turf will last longer than that. The black surface is 3 percent warmer than green but the FieldTurf material tends to absorb heat below the surface rather than reflect it. Middendorf says that the turf installation is expected to go smoothly as the base and drainage for the original installation has held up very well and it’s mainly a matter of tearing out the old and rolling in the new without too much other work anticipated. Middendorf noted that giving students a voice in choosing the color of the turf and lockers helps “empower the student body.” The school had 2,250 lockers – not nearly all functional. All exterior lockers are being permanently removed. There will be 2,000 fully functional lockers painted red (another student choice) when the second semester begins, more than enough to handle the 1,850 students currently enrolled and sufficient to

MIKE DUNN PHOTO WHEN CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER STUDENTS RETURN from the holiday break they’ll see 2000 fully functional red lockers in the educational wings of the school.

handle the 2,000-student capacity CVCHS is prepared to accept for the 2013-14 school year. Two chemistry labs are completed and will be fully stocked and operational after the holidays. Pending installation issues, the scoreboard for the Della Gym should also be up and running in January. Measure C projects will continue during the school year, including improvements to the inadequate security system (originally funded outside MDUSD), outdoor lighting, a new school marquee and major technology upgrades in every classroom – along with a laptop for every teacher. The school has already purchased an LCD projector and document reader for every teacher. MORE PROJECTS THIS SUMMER

Once school ends in May there will be more outdoor projects with additional bleachers being added at either end of the home side of Gonsalves Stadium along with a new snack shack. The existing snack building will be used for storage. A much larger cement walkway

will be installed to make it more user-friendly to get from the school grounds and parking lots to the stadium. A new artificial running track will go in along with improvements to the gymnasium locker rooms and multiuse room. There was a certain amount of pushback from segments of the public about Measure C continuing to fund projects at Clayton Valley along with newly-closed sites at Glenbrook Middle School and Holbrook Elementary. The district board and staff were adamant that all facilities receive equity in applying the Measure C funds. Pete Pederson, a retired MDUSD administrator who runs the Measure C effort on a part-time basis, and his staff were very complimentary last week when talking about CVCHS Executive Director Dave Linzey and Middendorf working with Measure C staff to get all CVCHS wants and needs met as soon as possible. Clayton resident Jay Bedecarre is on the Citizens Bond Oversight Committee for 2010 Measure C as he also was on 2002 Measure C and 1989 Measure A.

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In his last official act as mayor of Clayton, Howard Geller recognized seven local students for showing exemplary respect to teachers and fellow students during the past two months. Mt. Diablo Elementary students Campbell McGee and Aaron Woodling were both presented to the Council by their teachers. “Campbell is respectful to everyone; she’s just the all around perfect kid,” said teacher Mrs. Buchanan. Mrs. Vogensen noted that Aaron is “quick to say thank you. He thanks the kids and even thanks me when I give him homework and tests.” Diablo View Middle School, Principal Patti Bannister nominated Taylor Thompson, 8th grade, and Brian Nimr, 7th grade. “Taylor shows respect to everyone and has even earned the respect of her peers,” she said. “That’s a big accomplishment in junior high school. She’s just a good person – such a presence.” Brian Nimr was equally lauded by his principal. “He always has a wonderful smile and has such a sense of humor; just an outstanding Do the Right Thing student.” Three students were nominated for recognition from Clayton Valley Charter High School. Teacher Neil McChesney intro-

Steve Pierce

STUDENTS RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR RESPECTFUL ATTITUDES: (front row) MDES students Campbell McGee and Aaron Woodling; (back) MDES students Brian Nimr, Taylor Thompson; Mayor Howard Geller and CVCHS students Adrian Lopez, Jarrett Diehle and Bianca Rubalcalva.

duced Jarrett Diehle. McChesney said “respect is exemplified by someone who earns respect himself – that is Jarrett.” Teacher Kat Marzel presented Bianca Rubalcava and Adrian Lopez. Bianca, a member of the Public Service Academy, is “a super citizen in training, widely appreciated on campus.”

Adrian was a member of the Link Crew, the team of seniors that help the freshmen transition from middle school to high school. “He was a tireless worker, there first in the morning and the last to leave at night. He was always asking “what can I do to help.” The student recognitions are part of the Do the Right Thing

program, a community-wide initiative designed to promote strong character and values. Every other month, one of six character traits is emphasized by teachers and principals, parents, community leaders and police. The other five traits are Responsibility, Kindness, Self-discipline, Integrity and Courage.

December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 7

FLEX

Is the ‘No Fail’ policy a failure? While the semester comes to a close and students begin to stress over finals, many Clayton Valley teachers have found themselves in a bit of a dilemma. As with every school year, teachers have some students in their classes with very low grades who are failing; this year, however, teachers aren’t allowed to let their students fail. With the opening of Clayton Valley as a charter school, the administration implemented two new policies that are supposed to prevent students from failing. These policies are being put to the test while semester grades are finalized. The first is a “No Zero” policy that means that a student cannot get a zero on an assignment. The second is simply known as a “No Fail” policy, and ties in directly with the first one. Hypothetically, if students are doing all of their work then they should be learning from it and nobody

ALEX SHIMBERG TEEN SPEAK should have under 50 percent in a class. Basically, this means that a student is not allowed to skip any assignments. Every assignment must at least be attempted, and if there are multiple missing assignments from the same student then there are progressive levels of punishment set up that are intended to be used until the work is completed. First, the student is supposed to stay after school and, if the work still isn’t complete, Saturday School is assigned. If

the student doesn’t show up to Saturday School, then he or she gets assigned more Saturday School. During the process, students may also be referred to the Dean of Students. Some teachers have been letting students get away with not doing their assignments and now those students must face the consequences. For many students, however, it is too much work to complete in too little time, meaning that some students are in danger of getting a grade that teachers aren’t even allowed to give them. This “No Zero” policy is good in theory, but nearly impossible to implement. Students can be assigned Saturday School for an entire year, but that still will not deter them from skipping their assignments. The harsh truth is that for some kids, school isn’t a priority, and no matter what measures are taken, they will not do their schoolwork.

G? SPENDI&N

Ultimately, it’s unfair that teachers are being blamed for something that is often beyond their control. Teachers may do all that they legally can to adhere to the new policies but in the end the students are the ones that have to complete the assignments. Unless you tie students to their chairs and physically force them to do their work, there is no way to guarantee that students will finish their assignments. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, the staff at Clayton Valley has been learning this lesson the hard way.

Alex Shimberg is a senior at CVCHS and co-editor of the school newspaper, The Talon. He will major in international relations in college and plans on a career in politics. He lives in Concord with his parents and sister. Send comments to alex@claytonpioneer.com

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JENNIFER HOEHN PHMS REPORTER Pine Hollow Middle School is committed to serving the community and helping those in need. This year the students contributed 2,357 pounds of food during Pine Hollow’s annual Canned Food Drive. They donated the non-perishable food items to the MDUSD Food Pantry and the Solano/Contra Costa County Food Bank, helping feed 130,000 people. One student, Trevor Loria, donated about 800 pounds of food. He and his family did this by going to various stores, like Safeway and Costco. They used numerous coupons, which enabled them to buy a great deal of food. The Leadership class collected canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, nuts, rice,

PINE HOLLOW STUDENTS SORT THE MORE THAN 2,300 POUNDS of food collected for the MDUSD Food Pantry and the Contra Costa/Solano Food Banks during the school’s annual canned food drive.

pasta and more. Basically anything that doesn’t spoil easily, and will keep for long periods of time. They also sorted, counted and dropped off all of the food. Henna Hamidi, an eighth grader who was one of the leaders of the Food Drive, said that it “felt good knowing I was making a difference

in someone’s life.” We can all agree that it is very rewarding and gratifying to support others for a good cause. With the efforts of the Leadership class and all of the accommodating students and teachers, our school donated more food than we did last year. Hopefully next year we will bring in even

more, and help reduce hunger in our community. Jennifer Hoehn is in the eighth grade at Pine Hollow Middle School. Her interests are writing and illustration. She also enjoys playing the piano, and has a Glitter Tattoo business with her family. Email her at jennifer@claytonpioneer.com

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Buyers are embracing Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 8 and Windows RT, as vendors sold more than 40 million copies the first week of release, according to Microsoft. “We’re off to a good start for the new operating system with most professional and business community buyers opting for the more expensive ‘pro’ version of the software,” Microsoft states. “The consumer public is opting in greater numbers for the lighter, less expensive Windows RT version.” It seems that “touch” is going to be big with most users but there are issues you must address before you buy. As I mentioned in previous articles, Windows 8 and RT are different. Yes, they look and work the same, but RT does not support legacy applications. Legacy applications are those you purchased for Windows XP, Vista or 7. But I digress. “If you have touch input hardware that isn’t specifically

designed for Windows 8, but is compliant with Windows 7 certification, you will experience touch responsiveness at least as

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK good as it was on Windows 7,” Microsoft states. “Because Windows 8 touch requires a higher degree of responsiveness and precision, Windows 8-certified touch PCs provide a much better experience typing on the onscreen keyboard and using certain controls than on Windows 7-certified PCs. For example, touch screens that support fewer than five simultaneous

touch points cannot enable certain Windows 8 features and applications.” The latest versions of Windows support new touch screen technology. Currently touch screens are very expensive, thus keeping the prices high. The monitor industry has just released touch screens based upon a new metal mesh technology and over the next six months this will help increase supply and reduce overall prices from the mid-$400s to mid$200s. An alternative to touch screen is touch pad. The pad is a representation of your monitor and has special technology built in that allows it to work with Windows. Or, you can be oldfashioned and just use your mouse. According to Microsoft’s support page, they are ending support and updates for Windows XP on April 8, 2014, or just over a year before XP descends to “end of life.” So, you do have some time to upgrade your enterprise to Win-

dows 7 or 8. But why wait? Upgrade now. Microsoft is offering a special upgrade price to Windows 8 Pro for only $39.99 (regular price is $179.99). This version supports your old legacy applications. Sale ends in January 2013 so get going. If you really want to do it yourself and save try this link: http://windows.microsoft.com /en-US/windows/home. Or, if you decide to purchase the software from a retail store and install it yourself be sure it is the version 8 Pro and not version RT. If the sales agent doesn’t know the difference, bolt for the exit. Both support touch technology but both do not support legacy applications. And if you run into trouble, call your local computer expert for help. William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to will@claytonpioneer.com.

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As the year comes to a close I begin thinking of transformations, past and future. Am I truly living up to my full potential and if not, how do I get there? I think that means its time for self-reflection, to understand who you truly are by taking stock of all that has been experienced and learned throughout the year. As you begin to separate the wheat from the chaff, the lessons learned are truly valuable. Every year I discover new opportunities await me as I look at life with a transformed and renewed vision. That transformation

becomes my vehicle for moving beyond ego, moving beyond fear, moving beyond barriers. Knowledge is power. Before you make your New Year’s resolutions take the time for a little self discovery, know your facts before formulating a plan. Expose and dispose of common misconception by removing misconceptions and uncertainty to build a strong plan.

amounts of vitamins and minerals the body will readily uptake. The body’s absorption ratio increases tenfold because it must filter less through nonvaluable material as you digest. Also the various array of color, texture, taste and smell open the palate up to new experiences and more satisfying taste experiences. The body craves less because it is satisfied more.

Myth: To lose fat, you need to take diet pills. Fact: You can lose fat without taking diet pills. “Miracle fat burners” that are extensively advertised in informercials and other advertisements are quick fixes that many times cause other complications, such as anxiety, irregular heartbeat and blood clots, just to name just a few. Also fat burners consistently tamper with the bodies natural ability to burn fat and calories at rest.

Myth: It to complicated to figure out how to eat right. Fact: Eating right and regularly takes practice and time. Learning how your body responds to what you give it is essential in true transformations. It is not rocket science when you make the correct choice. Balance can be achieved by blending the bad things you love with the good things you must learn to love. Don’t give up what you love to get anywhere. Moderation is always the key. Food is you ally, not your enemy.

Myth: Foods that are good for you taste bad. Fact: Most fresh, organic food contains more numerous

Myth: Once you reach a certain age you can’t get into shape.

Fact: Move it or lose it. The factors which determine your success are up to you. Age is self-imposed boundary. Physical and mental fitness can boost your performance at any age. Taking care of yourself, at any age, simply increases the quality of your life. Myth: To make a change I have to wait I am all ready. Fact: Don’t wait until you’re “ready.” Make a change now. Transformation can occur at anytime and it begins the minute you decide to take control and make a change. If you wait for everything to be perfect, you will wait forever. Now is never to soon and if you fall off the plan, just get right back on. After all, energy, strength, renewed health, and decreased body fat is all you need for Christmas – besides your two front teeth. Ilima Heuerman holds multiple fitness certifications. She trains at Levity Fitness studio in Clayton. Email Ilima at IlimaHeuerman@levityfitness.com

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Mayor, from page 1 have on emergency response times and the safety of our community. Supervisor Karen Mitchoff has been very supportive of our need for real answers and facts. We want to be assured that your lives and property in Clayton are as important as anywhere else in the District.

While the safety of our citizens is constantly our primary concern, the closure of this station is particularly frustrating because the city, through its state-terminated Redevelopment Agency, contributed the land specifically in that location, plus some construction funds,

to ensure that all of Clayton would have adequate response times. Sadly, the closure of Station 11 reverses that purpose. Stay tuned. CALDECOTT TUNNEL UPDATE On to better news. I serve as your representative on the Contra Costa Transportation Authority, which manages the half-cent sales tax for local transportation projects. Our countywide sales tax dollars are leveraged nearly 3 to 1, allowing us to maximize the benefit to our residents. One of the projects that many of us will use extensively is the new fourth bore of the Caldecott Tunnel – the scheduled opening is less than a year away. I toured the tunnel early in the construction and it’s an amazing project. The new tunnel will allow for balanced traffic in both commute and non-commute directions, with the number of tunnel lanes matching those on either side of it in both directions. You can take a virtual tour on the Caltrans website at www.caldecotttunnel.org. There are some spec-

tacular photos there. The project is still slightly ahead of schedule and under the original budget. We are working hard to keep it that way! The Clayton Historical Society Museum will be hosting a display of the photographs later this spring as well. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR! Just a reminder that our annual Clayton Counts Down New Year’s Eve party for young families has been canceled due to declining attendance. We are planning an alternate event for the late summer/early fall that will include family members of all ages. If you would like to help us plan that event, please let me know soon. Thanks to the Girl Scouts who have already stepped up to help! I’m hoping many of our veteran volunteers will help with the new event. I’m wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe new year! As always, you can contact me by email at Julie_Pierce@comcast.net. Let me know what you think

December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 9

Unique properties deserve a fair appraisal LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS Q. We will be selling a property that our realtor calls “non conforming” for the neighborhood. It happens to be in the middle of a subdivision of newer homes. Though older, our property is expanded to a much larger size than the others in the neighborhood. It is also on a double lot. It was practically rebuilt with very rich upgrades. It is also gated. How can we arrive at a true value for sale? A. Unusual properties definitely pose a valuation challenge. It would be relatively easy to establish market value if it was one of the other homes in your subdivision. Appraisers deter-

mine market value by comparing the property in question with three similar properties in the neighborhood that have sold and closed within the last six months. In our current market there are plenty of closed sales within the last six months. But for a truly unique property, finding comparables to use can be taxing. Before putting your property on the market I would recommend you get a professional appraisal. The cost could be in the $400 to $800 range. It is well worth it so you have documentation to support your price. Ask your realtor or your loan broker for recommendations. From what you are telling me your home could be considered an estate. The appraiser could go to the nearest upscale area and find comps there. They might look for areas with a similar school district. Schools affect the value of an area. Also, value-added benefits such as expensive upgrades and awesome land-

scaping help improve the value of a property. The appraiser might have to go back further than the normal six months then adjust for the increase of the market since then. In the current market where there is low inventory, a buyer might waive the appraisal and pay the additional funds if it doesn’t appraise for the offering price. This happens especially when there are multiple offers. Some buyers are making cash offers these days so they don’t need an appraisal to get a loan. However, they often still want to make sure the property is worth what they are paying. So they would want it to appraise. Q. Our family will be putting our house up for sale next month. We want to have a garage sale to get rid of years of stuff. Do you have any tips on conducting a garage sale? A. A garage sale, like many things in life, takes more time

and energy than you might expect. Start planning well before you make the preparations for selling the house, such as staging and cleaning. Sometimes the neighbors want to join you so you can have a blockwide event. This could generate more shoppers. Double check your items so you don’t end up selling things that you want to keep. Decide if things are worth selling or not. If it is really junk toss it out, don’t sell it. Lay out your items by category, displayed neatly so customers don’t have to dig through boxes. Put removable price stickers on the items. Remember, garage sales are supposed to be bargains, so be objective and don’t over-price. Keep a calculator handy. Keep a tally of what you sold and don’t lose sight of the cash box. Advertise the sale on Internet sites such as Craig’s List (www.craigslist.com); create a flyer and post it at local businesses and posts around town

the week before the sale; borrow sandwich board signs with arrows from a local realtor and fly balloons on them the day of the sale. Saturdays and Sundays will generate the most traffic. Whether you are religious or not, pray for good weather. Start your garage sale as early as 8 a.m. and be prepared for early birds. Now that the garage sale is over and you sold all the treasures you could part with, donate or throw away the rest. This is

the time to start preparing your home for sale. 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 925-672-8787, email Lynne@LynneFrench.com, or stop in at 6200 Center Street in Clayton.

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Book Review

www.ClaytonChiropracticCenter.com

Historical thriller teaches lessons for today

SUNNY SOLOMON

FOR

THE

BOOKS

For those of you who like your reading beefy, in other words, more than 400 pages, and likewise find Matthew Pearl’s take on mystery and history captivating, you are going to like “The Technologists.” Pearl has become a master of the historical thriller as evidenced by “The Dante Club,” “The Poe Shadow,” and “The Last Dickens.” “The Technologists” takes us back to 1868 Boston in a science thriller that fits nicely in today’s culture of questioning science, vis-à-vis global warming. In true thriller style, “The Technologists” begins with two near-cataclysmic events. Late one night, for no clear reason,

all the instruments of ships entering Boston Harbor begin to malfunction, causing shipwrecks and flaming death and destruction. Not long after, a second equally inexplicable event occurs in the very center of Boston’s world of commerce, with explosions of melting glass. Speculation runs rampant among the city’s industrial leaders and its police. Is it the work of saboteurs, or has the intrusion of science into the 19th century finally caused God to strike back? Reminiscent of Pearl’s earlier work, his latest novel “The Dante Club,” also involves one of America’s most prestigious universities, MIT. The story takes place just as the university prepares for its first commencement. MIT is a center of learning whose very existence

has been met with opposition from backers of Harvard, the longstanding paragon of gentlemen’s education, from men of the cloth who believe the world of science opposes God, and from laborers who fear the new world of technology will put them out of work. A most diverse group of MIT students band together to prove by scientific methods (and a fair amount of good old sleuthing) that the blame for the disasters is not science or technology, but a crazed individual with his own agenda. P e a r l ’ s unearthing of MIT’s background is a feast for history buffs. Every reader on the alert for smart, engaging female characters will cheer for the first female student, Ellen Swallow. Pearl’s characters run the gamut from a common machinist Civil War veteran, to the son of a wealthy industrialist. If wealth and prestige separate them, they

Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’

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from page 1 Canesa will keep his night job at the Plate & Vine and the deli will be staffed by family members – his brother, father, wife and mom who “makes our legendary meatballs,” said John. Canesa hopes to be open by early or mid-January, pending all health department approvals. The deli isn’t the only new business coming to town. Damien De la Rosa, owner of The Harvest Market in Walnut Creek has signed a lease on the corner space in Flora Square. According to Councilman Howard Geller, who was instrumental in bringing the restaurant to town, the family restaurant will feature healthy, upscale Mexican food and will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Geller expects De la Rosa to be open sometime in the spring. De la Rosa was not available for comment. “It’s happening,” said Geller. “Just proves Clayton is waking up and on its way.”

are equally drawn to each other by their belief in science and its offspring, technology. Mens et Manus (Mind and Hand) is MIT’s motto and, depending on who is reading it, the words represent either hope for the future or fear of that same future. Pearl does not shortchange the reader on some very fastpaced action, unexpected twists, and even an historically based romance. But what most intrigues me is that 144 years after MIT’s founders fought for the right to open its doors to men and women, many of the same nay-saying voices of the past continue to be heard. Are the fears of skilled laborers of the 19th century so different from those of the 20th and 21st century? some of today’s clergy continue to despair of Darwin and would close down certain avenues of study. Pearl’s historical thriller seems not limited to history.

Police Activity for two weeks ending Dec. 13, 2012

ed for DUI after being stopped for a Vehicle Code violation.

ACCIDENTS:

Dec. 10, 4:29 a.m. 5400 blk Clayton Rd. A 27-year-old Clayton male was arrested on a warrant after being contacted by officers.

None. ARRESTS: Dec. 2, 3:57 a.m. 5400 blk Clayton Rd. A 30-year-old Concord male was arrested on a warrant after being contacted by officers. Dec. 6, 8:10 a.m. 1100 blk. Easley Dr. A 27-year-old Discovery Bay male was arrested on a warrant after being stopped for a Vehicle Code violation. Dec. 6, 9:58 p.m. N. Mitchell Canyon Rd./Clayton Rd. A 23-year-old Concord female was arrested for DUI after being stopped for Vehicle Code violations. Dec. 9, 2:30 a.m. Oakhurst Dr./Yolanda Cr. A 32-year-old Antioch male was arrest-

Dec. 11, 2:47 a.m. 5400 blk Clayton Rd. A 19-year-old Concord male was arrested for petty theft after being contacted by officers. Dec. 13, 1:57 a.m. Clayton Rd/Duncan Dr. A 26-year-old Clayton male was arrested for DUI after being stopped for Vehicle Code violations. BURGLARIES/THEFTS: Dec. 4, Nottingham Pl. Grand Theft. Dec. 11, Clayton Rd. Petty Theft.

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Cegielski Jewelers Walk into this little jewelry store tucked away off Clayton Road and the artistry of Anna Cegielski is everywhere. Elegant platinum, gold and silver, sparkling diamonds, sapphires, rubies and luscious pearls are all worked into spectacular one-ofa-kind pieces that will make that special person's heart sing this Christmas. Customize a piece of jewelry in your collection or design something new for your loved one. Visit this little store for gifts that are sure to become the next treasured family heirloom. Festive gift wrapping included. See our Holiday Guide ad for store location and hours.

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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.

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December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

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are so many ways to work this trend, but for the freshest take for a daytime party, team an opulent piece with a sleek separate like a crisp white shirt or a soft knit. You can also dress from the waist up with cool collars, ruffles and embellished fabrics – in other words, let your blouse do the talking. Pair a statement blouse with sleek black satin or leather pants. A supersized cocktail ring is all you need to complete the look. After dark, the tuxedo is just as cool as it was in 1966 when Yves St. Laurent first

introduced it. The updated version has ledge shoulders and lean pants. For another modern look, step out in a tailored jumpsuit – a style solution for effortless dressing. Sleek, sharp and linear jewelry works best with paired-back tailoring. Add a hard-case clutch and you’re ready to go. There are two distinct holiday make-up trends this year. The smokey, shimmery eye paired with light lips or the deep red lips balanced with a light eye. Shimmer is in, so long as you don’t overdo it. Get the right amount of glow with Laura Mercier Face Illuminator ($42). To keep your make-up looking fresh all night, primer is the key. Again, Laura Mercier makes a great primer. Be sure you use it on your eyes before you apply shadow. Carry oil blotting papers if you tend to get greasy. MAC has some good ones. At the end of the evening, make a stylish exit with embellished heels and soles. Look for mirrored heels, glitter soles or chain and stud details. If you prefer the more feminine touches, ruffle-trimming and bows abound. For a

night of dancing, a pair of gold-tipped velvet flats may be just right. As much as the holidays can be major stress inducers, don’t let choosing the right outfit be cause for alarm. When in doubt, try dressing with a little old Hollywood glamour in mind. Remember, you’re better off being overdressed for a holiday party than under-dressed. It’s more respectful to the host.

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Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

Sports Smiles return to Clayton Valley football players days after 27-24 Regional Bowl Game loss ends successful season JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Clayton Valley Charter’s glorious football season came to a close in Stockton two weeks ago when the Eagles lost a 27-24 decision to Oakdale in the firstever Division II State Regional Bowl Game. The following day coach Tim Murphy texted his players to tell them to be proud of what they had accomplished with the school’s initial North Coast Section football title. He told them the Bowl Game was like “extra credit” and something that wasn’t even on the radar when the team got together last spring for the first time with the new coach. But it wasn’t until a few more days had passed that Murphy saw the proud, confident smiles return to the faces of the players who won a school record-tying 12 straight games and went undefeated in the Diablo Valley Athletic League. “We had our championship ring-fitting today and it was a good day,” Murphy said last Thursday. After losing the Bowl Game in the waning moments while Cal Hi NCS Player of the Year Joe Protheroe was on the sidelines with an injured ankle, Clayton Valley’s most famous football alumnus, Sam Williams, a nineyear Oakland Raider, asked Murphy if he could address the disappointed team. Williams told the boys they were “the best team to ever play at Clayton Valley.” That covers 54 seasons of varsity football. Among the estimated 2000 fans at packed Lincoln High in Stockton supporting Clayton Valley that evening was Dominic DeMartini, who held the school rushing record since 1994 until Protheroe shattered the mark this season while amassing about 3000 yards on the ground. As a team, CVCHS missed the all-time California state season record for rushing by less than the length of a football field. The Eagles rushed for 5,469 yards narrowly behind Vacaville’s 5,549 from 2011, which had surpassed the previous record held by Murphy’s 1999 Ygnacio Valley High squad.

Jason Rogers photo

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER’S SUCCESS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD this fall was largely credited to the incredible offensive output by the team having the highest scoring average among all Division I high schools in California. Coach Tim Murphy worked equally hard to implement his defensive philosophy of swarming to the ball. No fewer than six Eagles, clockwise from left, Jesse Medrano (42), Yemi Fashola (88), Griffin Bentley (75), Vance Peoples (57), Dylan Jue (22) and Spencer Wraa (2), tackled a Mt. Diablo player in a DVAL game making his coach smile.

Murphy says Oakdale was the “best team we played this year.” The Mustangs had five players on the field who had started 40 or more varsity games. The Regional Bowl winners earned a CIF DII State Championship Bowl Game berth opposite Southern California power Serra of Gardena. While discussing the final game Murphy didn’t dwell on the third-quarter injury to Protheroe. After he went off for treatment Clayton Valley continued a drive to a go-ahead touchdown and led 17-14. Protheroe then returned to play defense before the coaches realized his ankle wasn’t ready.

The staff tried to call timeout to make a substitution but Oakdale came up with a 70-yard touchdown pass on the first play after the kickoff and re-took a lead they would not relinquish. Late in the fourth quarter with Oakdale up 27-24 Clayton faced a fourth and nine near midfield. In seven other fourthdown plays this season they had a run a successful play to get a first down every time. Anticipating Oakdale setting up its defense against the pass Murphy called for a direct snap to fullback Jesse Medrano. The play fooled every Oakdale defender except one, who grabbed hold of

Medrano’s leg and didn’t let go until the officials, who also took the fake that had junior quarterback Mike Protheroe apparently starting a double reverse, saw that Medrano had the ball and whistled him down. Clayton Valley got one last gasp on offense but again a sole Oakdale defender made a tackle on a screen pass thwarting the Eagles’ last chance. Quarterback Protheroe had to sit out the game’s last play when the officials sent him to “cool off ” after an exchange with some Oakdale players. Murphy specified seniors Medrano and Logan Bangert for special recognition in their play

vs. Oakdale. The bittersweet ending also is the first step to the 2013 football season when Murphy realizes his Eagles won’t “be picked third or fourth in the DVAL.” He loses 21 seniors but “we have more returning starters than I’ve ever had,” including four of seven starting linemen and two of three defensive backs. He calls sophomore Jax Carter a David Tollefson-type defensive lineman, referring to his former Ygnacio Valley High player now with the Raiders. He also mentions Carter’s classmate Griffin Bentley, a lineman who had “the light bulb go on” by the

time of league season when he became a major force on the line. One of the biggest successes for Murphy during a season that saw the Clayton Valley offensive school record book nearly completely rewritten was how the swarming defense came together and helped cause nine games to end in a running clock because of the large advantage the Eagles had on the scoreboard. CVCHS was the highest scoring Division II team in the state this year. Murphy also lauded the freshman (fourth straight DVAL title) and junior varsity (second

See Smiles, page 15

Brazilian coach teaches soccer, mentors her Diablo FC girls JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

For the past eight years local youth soccer players have benefitted from the coaching, teaching and mentoring of Marcia Tafarel, better known as Tafa, who has been a key member of the Diablo Futbol Club coaching staff since 2005. This year Tafa coached the Diablo FC 03 under 9 girls team as well as the Diablo FC U8 Academy girls. Her Diablo FC 03 team completed its 2012 season with the NorCal State Cup Gold Division championship last month in Manteca. The 13 girls on the Diablo FC 03 roster are training with a coach who has experienced soccer at the highest level participating with the Brazilian World Cup and Olympic teams from 1990-1996. Diablo FC Director of Coaching Brian Voltattorni says, “Tafa has been one of our top youth coaches and has an amazing ability to empower young women to play at a higher level. She has a wealth of playing experience from her time play-

ing professionally in Brazil and representing her country at the World Cup and Olympics. Tafa draws on her passion and experience as a player and brings that passion and energy to the training field every day.” The team succeeded in the second round and quarterfinals of State Cup in Davis with three victories and a draw. In the second round they defeated Elk Grove Orange 3-0 and Mustang Fire 2-0 along with a 1-1 draw with North Bay Elite Blue 03. In the quarterfinals they outscored Placer United 03 White 4-2 with Sasha Chaloner, Chloe VaissetFauvel and Marisa Loera scoring the goals. This moved the local team into the semi-finals in Manteca where they shutout Mustang Matrix 1-0 with Isabella Brandt scoring the only goal. The championship match was against another area team, Heritage Wolfpack, and Tafa’s girls came away with a 2-1 victory as Chaloner tallied both goals. Vaisset-Fauvel, Isabelle Barber, Lily Underwood, Amaia Spinal and Natalie Haro were part of the Diablo FC U8 Acad-

emy before joining the under 9 competitive team in its first season last winter. The other team members are Alexiah Dubon, Kaia Ilagan-Evangelista, Natalie Oosterhouse, Emiko Tahara and Peyton Wooten. At the 14th annual Halloween Kick or Treat Classic the 03 girls honored their coach in the tournaments costume contest by all wearing blue and yellow Brazil national team uniforms. After coming to the Bay Area Tafa attended Las Positas College in Livermore, joining the soccer team. She was MVP for the Lady Hawks, Coast Conference Player of the Year, first team Nor/Cal State and Western Region Midfielder of the Year. Most importantly was she was the first All-America in women’s sports at Las Positas in the 16th year of the college. The humble, shy woman was also a star in the classroom at Las Positas with a 4.0 grade point average in sports medicine and ESL in the International Studies Department. Tafa first joined Diablo Valley Soccer Club in 2005 where a

Photo courtesy Diablo FC

DIABLO FC 03 GIRLS WON THE STATE DIVISION at the NorCal State Cup last month in Manteca. Coached by former Brazilian international player Tafa (standing left), the under 9 girls team won the championship match 2-0. The team includes, front row from left, Lily Underwood, Amaia Spinal, Marissa Loera, Chloe Vaisset-Fauvel; back row, coach Tafa, Isabella Brandt, Kaia Ilagan-Evangelista, Isabelle Barber, Natalie Haro, Emiko Tahara, Sasha Chaloner and Natalie Oosterhouse. Missing, Alexiah Dubon and Peyton Wooten.

fellow Brazilian international superstar, Sissi, was on the DVSC staff. DVSC and Mt. Diablo Soccer League combined

to form Diablo FC in 2008 and Tafa has remained on the coaching staff since then. “Tafa is a role model for

many of the young women in our club,” Voltattorni adds.

December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 13

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Sports Lens, from page 1 every team session. He was barely noticed yet was as omnipresent as any of the coaches or players. And his legacy will be remembered for decades to come in the images he captured that CVCHS players, parents and coaches will be sharing forever. The Eagles went all the way to the first ever State Regional Bowl Game two weeks ago in Stockton and, thanks to Jason Rogers, there is photographic and video evidence of every step of that history-making journey. “He filmed everything we did this year. He filmed practices, games, (summer) passing tourneys, pasta feeds and anything else we attended,” Murphy says. Team parent Tony Fuentes mentioned that the coach secured CVCHS logo gear for 14-year-old Jason and also got him equipment to make the game videotaping easier to do. He photographed daily practices for hours each day. For the weekly game he would download his video of the game in order for the coaches to have them ready for Saturday morning film sessions with the coaches and players. One Friday night after getting home from Napa, Jason had problems with the download so he stayed up until

baseball and softball academy

it was completed at 7 a.m. for the 9 a.m. film review. Team parent Lenore Nelson says, “It is not too often that a young person finds a passion and pursues it with the time and dedication that Jason has given to CVCHS football. His efforts have helped lead to the success this year. Clayton should be proud to get to know this young man.”

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Jason Rogers photo

PHOTOGRAPHY

Come next fall when Jason enters CVCHS he’ll be especially time-challenged if he wants to keep up his photography pursuits since he plans to follow in his brother’s footsteps and play football for the Ugly Eagles. He says science and art are his favorite school subjects. He is a Boy Scout who has enjoyed photographing his backpacking trips in the Sierras as well as the beautiful scenery around Mt. Diablo. As a scout he plans to complete hiking the entire 210-mile John Muir Trail, which passes through Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia national parks. Since Jason says he “loves to take pictures of outdoor scenery” the Trail seems like the ideal setting for him. He favors Canon digital

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL’S FOOTBALL SEASON came to an end in the State Regional Bowl Game earlier this month in Stockton when the Eagles lost 27-24 to Oakdale. Junior Garrett Nelson (6) makes an open field tackle of an Oakdale receiver with teammate Tanner Wraa (18).

camera and video equipment. Jason’s uncle Stu Jossey is a newspaper photographer in Manteca and Tracy who’s taken photos at many 49er and Raider games. He’s given his nephew tips on shooting sports action, an acquired talent. Jason uses Adobe Premiere Elements for editing on his PC. Last year he did a 12-minute season highlight film for the 2011 CVHS football team. He says his final video capturing the 2012 season will be 30 minutes in length. Proud parents, mom Julie Nelson, president of the local Weichert Realtors, and dad Jeff,

a manager with ClubCare, made sure their youngest son got to all of his assignments. This spring Jason will participate in his fifth year on the St. Bonaventure CYO track and field team (long jump, high jump, mile, 4x100 relay). He’s also looking ahead to high school football, track and photography classes. He’ll probably be able to give his fellow photo students some tips. Besides examples of Jason Rogers’ photography in this issue of the Pioneer, much more can be found at www.claytonvalleyfootball.com.

Local collegian earns All-America cross country honors but equally celebrates winning Battle of the Bands title JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Matt Day culminated his collegiate running career with a top finish in the NAIA Men’s Cross Country National Championships in Fort Vancouver, WA last month to earn AllAmerica honors, an achievement any athlete would celebrate. However when talking with the Westmont College senior he is just as anxious to discuss his band, The Riverside, which recently won the Santa Barbara Downtown Sound Battle of the Bands. A 21-year-old who will be graduating next May with a degree in religious studies, Day clocked a time of 25:09 to place 21st among the 309 finishers at the NAIA Nationals in the men’s 8,000-meter race. He is only the sixth Westmont male dating back to the first in 1966 to earn the All-America honor and the first since 2005. “Matt was very focused and determined,” said Westmont head coach Russell Smelley. “He decided he was going to be an All-American before the race, which is a good place to be if you don’t put too much pressure on yourself. At the start of the race, there is a big tree in the middle of the course. From the gun he cut through traffic and made a beeline for the right side of the tree. He broke in the top 25 and stayed there the whole race and securing 21st place in the last half mile.”. Day, who graduated from Berean Christian High School in 2009, is equally adapt in the classroom and earned both NAIA and Golden State Athletic Conference Scholar-Athlete awards for his combined efforts in cross country and academics. He carries a 3.7 grade point average. He’ll finish is college running next spring on the Westmont track and field team where he runs the 1500 and 5000 meter distance races. At the Golden State Conference Championships Westmont men’s and women’s cross country teams each finished in third

Photo courtesy Westmont College Sports Information

SENIOR MATT DAY OF CLAYTON capped his collegiate cross country career by being named to the all-America team with a 21st place finish at the NAIA National Championships in Washington. There were 309 finishers in the men’s 8,000-meter race. Day completed the course in a time of 25:09.

place with Day leading the Warriors as the third overall finisher. He placed at the CIF State Cross Country Championships for Berean in his junior and senior years. Day plays bass guitar and sings harmonies for The Riverside. “I’ve been playing bass for four and half years now. I am a self-taught bass player and I took two years of choir in high school,” Day explains. His bandmates are Jake Jeanson, Taylor Hallie and Trey Lindsley. “Jake and I have been playing music together for a year and a half. We started by playing pop rock but Jake came to love folk music this summer

and wanted to write folk songs instead. And that’s when The Riverside started. Taylor joined the band in the summer and Trey joined us at the beginning of the school year.” New Noise Music and the Santa Barbara Independent posted an article online asking bands in the Santa Barbara area to sign up for the third annual Downtown Sound Battle of the Bands. The band’s former manager and Jeanson signed up. Eventually there were over 200 entries so a new posting said there would be a vote with the top eight bands making the semi-finals. Realizing that the competition offered them a lot

of opportunities, the band mounted a campaign among their friends and Westmont classmates using Facebook and college outlets. They were voted into the top eight. Day explains, “There were two rounds of semi-finals, with four bands playing per round. The top two bands at each semi-final would advance to the finals. We brought in a big enough crowd to give us second place in our round.” The top four from the semi-finals then competed in the finals with the winner to be determined by a popular vote of the attendees plus the vote of six Independent-approved judges, who’s vote counted as 10. Day’s band heavily advertised the event and “we were surprised to see nearly 200 of our friends and Westmont students show up to watch us play! They made a great crowd, too. It was certainly a night to remember. We were beyond ecstatic when we found out that we won. We could not have done it without the support we received from our friends and fellow students, and also without our having put on a great show.” The Independent said that Jeanson “and his band of friends delivered a solid and sweet 30-minute set filled with tranquil folk orchestrations and four-part harmonies.” The band won $5000 worth of equipment including Ernie Ball electric guitar and bass guitar, tons of Ernie Ball strings, a photo shoot and press in the Santa Barbara Independent and a 12-hour recording session at Santa Barbara Sound Design, a professional recording studio that has worked with famous musicians, including the reggae band Rebelution. Day proudly says, “It was a great feat. We have already started working with Santa Barbara Sound design for our first album. It should be out sometime in the winter of 2013.” His parents, Mary and Teresa Day, moved to Clayton when

See Matt Day, page 15

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

Sports

John Tsubota named new head coach of Dana Hills Otters Swim Team for 2013

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The 20-time Concord City Swim Meet Champion Dana Hills Swim Team announced last week that John Tsubota is the new head coach for the 2013 summer recreation season. He succeeds Serge Victor, who returned to coach the Otters the past two summer seasons as the team achieved several historic finishes. Board president Cathy Myers made the coaching announcement on behalf of the board of directors last week “following an exhaustive and careful coaching review process.” She added, “This process of selecting a new head coach came from hours of board discussion and included a careful and measured review of our DHST Mission Statement and our vision to continue the long standing tradition of excellence at Dana Hills.” Tsubota coached the Walnut Creek Swim Club for 16 years and has been involved with recreational swimming for over 25 years. He began his swimming career with Las Juntas Swim Team before competing at Pleasant Hill High School, the Aquabears, Diablo Valley College and Chico State in the butterfly, backstroke, individual medley and distance freestyle. He has been a physical education teacher at Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School in Moraga for the past 26 years, where he has coached a variety of sports. Tsubota brings a long history of success to the Otters including 12 consecutive firstplace finishes for WCSC at the Walnut Creek All-City Meet plus

many County Meet championship swimmers. The new coach says he’s “looking forward to ‘raising the bar’ with OtterNation and to maintain and continually develop a high quality swim program with an emphasis on building self-esteem, camaraderie, good sportsmanship and team spirit.” Tsubota is very familiar with the Dana Hills program as for many years DHST and Walnut Creek SC were members of the Contra Costa Swim League which disbanded last year. DHST joined the league in 1996 and won its only two league titles in 2009 and 2011. The two teams would also compete at invitational meets and the season-ending County Meet. Myers and the board said their new coach has “a strong track record of developing swimmers through skills assessment clinics, encouragement of swimmers of all abilities to have an equal opportunity to grow and develop a love for swimming and an emphasis on team building/camaraderie.” Tsubota has a “Work Hard/Play Hard” philosophy that includes technical and conditioning practice regimens with goal setting at swim meets along with a tradition of fun with many opportunities for swimmers and families to participate in social activities. The new coach lives with wife Valerie in Brentwood and has two sons, Evan and Scott. The board thanked Victor “for two amazing seasons with the Otters. Serge brought a level of professionalism to the team and helped our children develop their skills, swim technique and

Sports Shorts CLAYTON VALLEY FALCON CHEER HOLDS LAS VEGAS TRIP FUND RAISERS Clayton Valley Falcons cheer squads are raising $5000 so the 20 girls who have formed a Falcons National cheer squad can travel to Las Vegas Jan. 28 to compete in the JAMZ Nationals. A poker tournament will culminate the fund raisers on Sat., Jan. 12, before the girls compete in Las Vegas. For more information or to donate contact Paula Schiff (925) 321-6139 or email Pkschiff@pacbell.net SPEAKERS NAMED FOR HOT STOVE LEAGUE BASEBALL DINNER JAN. 11 Head coach Casey Coakley is reviving an old tradition with the Clayton Valley Charter High School Hot Stove Dinner on Friday, Jan. 11. This type of serves to whet the appetite of baseball fans in the cold winter months before spring training starts again. There will be lots of baseball talk with former Clayton Valley players who went on to college and professional careers including Bud Beemer, Matt and Scott Gorgen, Sam Ray and Bob Ralston. Door prizes, raffles and dinner Jan. 11 all benefit CVCHS Baseball and its scholarship fund. The event will be held from 6-9:30 p.m. at Shadelands Civic Arts Center, 111 N. Wiget Ln. at Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Walnut Creek. For more information and to buy tickets at $40 each email coach Coakley at Casey.Coakley@ClaytonValley.org. DIABLO FC WINTER SOCCER ACADEMY STARTS JAN. 7 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. 14. Boys and girls 5-12 years of age in all skill levels can participate in Winter Academy getting professional coaching in a noncompetitive environment. The year-round

Photo courtesy Dana Hills Swim Team

JOHN TSUBOTA has been selected as the new head coach for the Dana Hills Swim Team. He has been with the Walnut Creek Swim Team for the past 16 years and will be taking over the Otters next spring as they prepare for the 2013 recreation swim season.

grow as competitors in the pool. We wish him well in his future endeavors which include winter, spring and summer clinic programs at Oakhurst Country Club.” Victor led Dana Hills to its best-ever Contra Costa County Meet finishes with second-place awards in 2011 and 1995, during his first coaching stint with the team. Last summer, when the Otters had many swimmers in their “down year,” they were fifth at County Meet. Dana Hills has won 20 of the past 21 City Meets.

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. CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE BOYS, GIRLS REGISTRATION OPEN

Registration for Clayton Valley Little League is open for the spring 2013 season. Baseball programs for players ages four to 14 and softball for girls four to 14 are both open for registration. The CVLL program began in 1964 and includes a Challenger Division for players with physical and mental special needs. Players must reside within the CVLL boundaries. Go to cvll.org for complete information and to register. The online Clayton Valley Little League merchandise store is open in order to stock up on CVLL gear before the season or for holiday gifts at cvll.org. DIABLO FC U9-U12 COMPETITIVE SOCCER TRYOUTS JAN. 26-28 Diablo FC tryouts for the 2013 season for under 9 through under 12 boys competitive teams and U9-U11 girls will be held Jan. 2627-28 in Concord. Boys born between Aug. 1, 2001 and July 31, 2006 and girls born between Aug. 1, 2002 and July 31, 2006 are invited to try out. Tryouts for girls in the U12-U14 and boys U13-U14 age groups will be Feb. 2 and 4. There is no charge to try out and players can pre-register today at diablofc.org. BLAZE AAU BASKETBALL TRYOUTS DEC. 29 AT CLAYTON GYM The Blaze 2013 AAU basketball program at All Out Sports League is holding tryouts on Sat., Dec. 29, at Clayton Community Gym for boys nine through high school and girls 12-16. The 13U-15U girls tryouts are at 3 p.m. Boys tryouts will be held for seven age groups throughout the day. Blaze teams compete in tournaments from March through

Unsung heroes, weekend warriors wanted The Clayton Pioneer is committed to giving the best coverage to everything Clayton. We get plenty of information from local high schools, sports leagues and clubs. What we don’t hear about so often are from our neighbors who are competing below that radar screen. There are Claytonians who are participating in sports and recreational endeavors that we don’t normally hear about but we’d like to tell their stories too. If you know of someone – or even if you are that someone – let us know what you’re doing and perhaps we’ll find it something our readers would love to read about! Some area youth are going to schools other than Clayton Valley Charter or participating on a club sport team that we need to hear from. We always love to report on college athletes from our area. If you’re running, jumping, hiking, biking, swimming, skydiving, bowling, golfing or participating in any of dozens of other sports and recreational activities let us know. Give us a brief rundown and your contact information and we might be in touch with you. It’s as simple as sending an email to sports@claytonpioneer.com

July. Information and registration for tryouts can be found at alloutsportsleague.com. CLAYTON VALLEY 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 all-league 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. SPRING SIGNUPS FOR MT. DIABLO SOCCER TAKEN ONLINE Mt. Diablo Soccer is accepting applications for its spring program which begins in March. Players who participated in the fall season are charged only $50 for spring. Boys and girls 4 to 18 years of age can take part. Under 12 and older divisions in spring league are co-ed. Spring league ends in midMay and is generally less formal than fall with players getting the opportunity to play soccer without any post-season playoff pressure. Email any questions to spring@mdsoccer.org. Registration is being taken online at mdsoccer.org. 10TH ANNUAL DIABLO FC CRAB FEED & AUCTION FEB. 8 The 10th annual Crab Feed and Auction to support Diablo FC youth soccer programs is Friday, Feb. 8, at Centre Concord. Besides the crab feed dinner and fund-raising live and silent auctions, there will be dancing. Tickets are $50. To get more info or to buy tickets visit diablofc.org

December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Smiles, from page 12 straight league championship) team coaching staffs who implemented the unique offensive and defensive schemes he teaches. Running back Miles Harrison will be coming up from JVs to “go after Joe’s rushing records.” Murphy says the 180-pound Harrison already “looks like a running back” and will be featured in the offense along with Tanner Wraa, Mike Protheroe and Garrett Nelson. Players will be lifting weights during the winter and spring months before the twoweek period in late May when the team can practice without gear. In the summer they will be in a couple passing tourna-

ments and attend a camp. They open 2013 play Aug. 30 in Las Vegas against Desert Pines.

This will be the second out-ofstate football game for Clayton Valley after a trip to Reno in 2003. The NCS champions will have their Awards Night Jan. 16 on campus. Graduating sen-

Photo courtesy CVCHS football

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER FOOTBALL PLAYERS were able to purchase a North coast Section and DVAL championship ring to commemorate their history-making 2012 season.

iors Protheroe and Medrano are both involved in college football recruiting prior to the Feb. 6 National Letter of Intent Day. Murphy is with his third school as head coach and each time has won the school’s firstever section football championship. He said, “This year is as gratifying as any season I’ve had.” Murphy added that his wife Christy became friends with many of the parents who were so supportive of the team. “Sometimes when you try to sell something you believe in, you don’t really know how it will take. Here, both the kids and parents ‘got it’.” For many more photos and videos on the 2012 CVCHS Eagles football visit www.claytonvalleyfootball.com.

Page 15

Matt Day, from page 12 Matt was in seventh grade at Tabernacle Christian School in Concord. He has an older sister Melanie and younger sister Madeline. Two other women, Arlynn Sivil and Mercedes La Manna, lived with the Days and Matt considers them members of his family and “my sisters” as well. After graduation, Day plans on living in Santa Barbara for a few years. The thoughtful young man says, “Ideally, I’d like to continue playing music with The Riverside, do ministry with my church or even get an internship, if possible, and maybe get another job to make some money on the side. Ultimately, though, my future is in God’s hands, and wherever my Lord leads me, I will go.”

Photo courtesy The Riverside

Westmont College senior Matt Day, left, is part of The Riverside. The band won this fall’s Downtown Sound Santa Barbara Battle of the Band. Featured vocalist and song writer Jake Jeanson, center, and Taylor Hallie are also in the band along with Trey Lindsley, not pictured.

Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JAN. 2 FOR THE JAN. 11 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Dec. 21, 22 “Once Upon a Christmas” The Ballet Joyeux presents this holiday ballet featuring Santa, his elves and all the toys in the workshop. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20 for children under 12. $25 adults. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469. Dec. 22 “Adventures of the Christmas Tree” The forest animals and forest monsters each want the beautiful Christmas tree as a guest at their New Year’s Eve parties. Will there be a bitter war or a big party? 4:45 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Dec. 23 Holiday Concert Come celebrate the holidays with a magical evening of music and good cheer with the California Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $65. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Dec. 29 Comedy Show Political comedian Will Durst hosts a night of humor lampooning the events of 2012. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $22-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

FUNDRAISERS Thru Dec. 23 Christmas Tree Lot Boy Scout Troop 317 is selling Douglas, noble and grand fir Christmas trees, wreaths, mistletoe and tree stands. 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Dana Plaza, Concord Boulevard at Landana Drive, Concord. Contact Scoutmaster Ben Soleimanieh: bsatroop317@hotmail.com. Jan. 4 ARF Comedy Night An evening of laughter benefitting ARF’s lifesaving programs. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$60. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469. Jan. 5 ARF Stars to the Rescue XXII Performances by Tony Orlando, Rich Hebert and others benefitting ARF’s lifesaving programs. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45$250. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. claytonlibrary.org or 6730659. Wednesdays Book Buddies A volunteer will read stories for children 3 and older. 1-2 p.m. Jan. 7 CERT Emergency preparedness seminar. 7 p.m. Jan. 16 Wills and Trusts Workshop conducted by attorney Ivette Santaella. Presentation and time for questions and answers. 6 – 8 p.m. Registration required. ccclib.org or 673-0659.

GOVERNMENT 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, except Jan. 1 Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. POLITICAL COMEDIAN WILL DURST AND FRIENDS perform stand-up comedy, improv and loosely written sketches.

Jan. 17 – 19 Company C Contemporary Ballet The Company’s winter program brims with innovation, represented by three world premieres. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

CHURCHES AND RELIGION Dec. 22 O Holy Night A dramatic retelling of that holy night when Jesus was born in Bethlehem. 7 p.m. Crossroads Church, 5353 Concord Blvd., Concord. 798-5905.

2nd and 4th Tuesdays, except Dec. 25 Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group Meets 6 p.m. fourth Wednesday of the month, Montecito, 4756 Clayton Road, Concord. 692-5838. Claycord 4-H Meets 6:45 p.m. second Tuesday of the month, Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Road, Concord. Clayton Business and Community Association Meets 6:30 p.m. last Thursday of the month except holidays, Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton. Call Sue at 672-2272.

Clayton Valley Garden Club Meets 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, February through November. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. claytonvalleygardenclub.org. Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Meets 9:30 a.m. second Tuesday of the month except July and August, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. 672-9448. Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association Meets 6 p.m. first Saturday of the month for a potluck. Open to members and guests. CMDTRA, 1600 Trail Ride Road, Clayton. cmdtra.org or cmdtra@yahoo.com. Contra Costa Chess Club Meets 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Starbuck’s, 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. ccchess.com or contact Mike at 639-1987. Creekside Artists Guild Meets 7-8:30 p.m. second 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, 946-0469. 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 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. scrabbleassoc.com or call Mike at 639-1987. 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.

Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

Save the hugs and kisses for human friends

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that didn’t work, he would act like he was going to bite. I gave the client some tools to work with to teach the dog to be comfortable with handling by people. However, I became concerned when he talked about his grandchildren hugging the dog. Just the idea of a child’s face near the jaws of that shepherd made me extremely uncomfortable, and I told him so. Statistically, 44,000 people are bitten on the face by dogs every year in this country; that’s 77 percent of all dog bites. And, 60 percent of these facial bites are to children. Seventy-seven percent of dog bites are from dogs that are considered to be friendly, and are known by the victims.

Now, let’s put the two topics that I have discussed together. Someone hugs a dog. The dog feels confined by this strange (to the dog) behavior. It can’t get away. It decides to defend itself. What is the closest part of the human available to bite? Unfortunately, that would be the face. So I am going to caution you not to hug and kiss your dog. Show your dog affection by talking to it, petting it, giving it belly rubs, playing with it, etc. If you need someone to hug and kiss, find a human family member. And remember, don’t allow your children to hug and kiss the dog. You don’t want them to be part of that horrible statistic, and you don’t want your dog to be part of it, either.

There are a couple of instances where two dogs might approximate hugging. One is when they are fighting, or playfighting. The other is when one is mounting; either for sex, or to show dominance. Again, your attempts to show affection to your dog in this way can send confusing signals to your dog. Dogs can easily misinterpret the meaning of a hug. Also, many dogs feel confined by hugging, and will squirm to get away. Not exactly the reaction their people are looking for.

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I was recently working with a client whose German shepherd had issues about having its face and paws handled. The dog would try to get away, and if

Sue Skiff is the author of “How to Have a Well-Behaved Dog,” and the owner/operator of Silver Lining Pet Services, a company which provides dog training and pet sitting services. Learn more at www.silverliningdogtrain.com or www.silverliningpetsitting.com. Email her at information@silverliningdogtrain.com

Jane Campion and Orange Boy are ARF’s Adoption Stars cue 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.

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THE PUPPY IN THIS PICTURE is alarmed at this sudden invasion of his space. His ears are back, his eyes wide and he is leaning away from the boy.

JANE CAMPION

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.

Jane Campion is a spunky, fun-loving little lady. This 1-1/2-year-old is all set to have a good time and she can’t wait to find the right adopter who will join her on all of her adventures. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60 percent off one 7-week dog training session. 4-year-old OrangeBoy is calm, friendly, and playful. He enjoys sitting on laps and would thrive in a quiet home where he can get plenty of lap time. OrangeBoy’s adoption fee has been pre-paid for by a generous donor. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Res-

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ORANGE BOY

December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Finish your furniture with decorative paints

JENNIFER LEISCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR Kitchen or bathroom cabinets, a funky table you found at an antique faire, a wooden side chair with unique carvings you found at a garage sale, a wooden coat rack handed down from your grandparents – what do these things have in common? They are all perfect canvases for decorative painted finishes. Paint really should be everyone’s best friend when it comes to interior design. Of course we all know it’s foremost usage for interior walls or the exterior of a residence, but it’s also the magic remedy that brings a piece of furniture or cabinetry to life when a wood stain or clear coat has lived past its prime. The key to bringing a wooden piece of furniture or built in cabinetry back to life using paint is all in the prep work. Start by removing any decorative or functional hardware and then start sanding. I have to say, this is probably the most tedious part of the project, but so necessary. Take the time to sand down cracked or chipped existing paint or worn down stain to create a smooth surface. The better you sand your project, the better your foundation will be to add primer and eventually, a decorative finish. Once you’re satisfied with the sanding, apply a primer. Primer is like “white-out,” it covers most surface imperfections like discoloration. Using liberally with a paint brush, coat your project from head to toe. Get into the tiny nooks and

crannies of your project until all you see is a landscape of white. Depending on what your project is or what type of wood you’re working with, a second coat of primer might even be advised. And now, the fun begins, as you get to start painting. Fr inspiration, check out the many books, TV shows, or online howto ideas on how to “finish” a piece of furniture or built in cabinetry. A word of advice, don’t try and recreate the wheel. Look for photos of projects that are similar to yours and take notes on what has been done before. If you’re considering straight painting or something decorative using two or three colors, or more, create samples boards so you can practice the design. Straight painting is pretty basic; one color to cover your entire project. But something to think about with this one color is sheen. Most paint manufacturers have four basic sheens: Gloss, semi-gloss, satin and flat. Gloss and semi-gloss are good sheens

to use for projects where you’re looking to make a statement, or for cabinetry where occasional cleaning is necessary. Satin and flat I like to save for interior walls, not accessory pieces. Decorative painting is just that, decorative. If you’re looking to create a beautiful wash on cabinetry, play with two or three colors for a unique finish. Or, if you have a piece of furniture with carved molding or trim, use one color for the body and a contrasting color or two for the accents. Again, don’t reinvent the wheel here. Really do your homework, either online or with popular home magazines, and just being out and about with your camera phone in hand. Find examples of decorative painted objects that really appeal to you and your design aesthetic and start creating. 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

Pioneer Photo Album This photo of a swallowtail butterfly was taken on a beautiful morning in Clayton last May on the Mount Diablo Donner Canyon Waterfall Loop. It’s almost as if the butterfly were posing! I think this photo captures the essence of Clayton and our backyard gold mine. - Laura Cook Kelly The Pioneer is proud to spotlight our readers’ photos. Email your photo in a high-resolution format to tamara@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.

Page 17

Theatre

A.C.T. travels ‘4000 Miles’ A.C.T. opens its 2013 season on Jan. 17 with Amy Herzog’s comic drama, “4000 Miles.” This intergenerational tale of loss and love begins when 21-year-old Leo, dazed after a cross-country bike trip, unexpectedly arrives on the doorstep of his feisty 91-yearold grandmother Vera’s New York apartment. Sparks fly when Vera’s surprising political views collide with Leo’s carefree hippie lifestyle. But, when Leo’s old girlfriend shows up and he begins to reveal the mysterious events of his journey, Leo and Vera discover the fragile line between growing up and growing old. Called a “funny, moving, altogether wonderful drama” and “one of the best, bravest plays of the season,” “4000 Miles” was the recipient of two OBIE Awards, including Best New American Play. The A.C.T. production features screen, television and stage veteran Susan Blommaert (“The Good Wife,” “Boardwalk Empire”) and newcomer Reggie Gowland as Leo. “How wonderful to start the New Year with something so fresh and new,” says Artistic Director Carey Perloff. “‘4000 Miles’ is a beautifully written new play with an entire company new to A.C.T.” “4000 Miles” will run Jan. 17 through Feb. 10 at A.C.T.’s Geary Theater, 415 Geary Street, San Francisco. Buy tickets online at actsf.org, or call 415-749-2228.

SUSAN BLOMMAERT OPENS A.C.T.’S 2013 season as Vera in Amy Herzog’s intergenerational comedy drama, “4000 Miles”

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

Cookie, from page 1 Pioneer Food for Thought columnist Linda Wyner, new police chief Chris Thorsen, Rodie’s owner, Bob Rodenburg, Pioneer Garden Girl Nicole Hackett and junior judges Molly DeSeelhorst and Olivia Yoshii, went about their appointed rounds, dutifully tasting and retasting each and every cookie. Santiago and Joyce Martinez, two of the four singers from the local singing group Vintage, engaged the large crowd with Christmas carols, many of which were original compositions. Face painting, glitter tattoos, coloring and crafts kept the children busy during the judging until Santa delighted them with his arrival and a bag of candy canes. When was said and done, Judge Wyner announced the winners and runners-up. Taking the first place Master Baker honors for the third year in a row was Tamara Aszklar with Nonna’s Piccola Crostata. Savanha Groebner took first in the teen division with Hannah Propersi a close second. Nineteen young bakers, ages 6-12, entered the Junior Baker division. Annika Tuohey’s Peppermint Fudge Cookies claimed the first place honors with Ryan Ross’ Snowman Cookies in second place and Jenny Linderman’s Peppermint Truffle Cookies a close third. After the judging, the face-painted and glitter tattooed kids closed in on the sharing table where every cookie was a winner. Judges and bakers are already volunteering for the Pioneer’s 10th annual cookie contest, which coincides with celebrating the paper’s 10th anniversary in 2013. Here are the winning recipes that were provided so anyone can wow their families and friends this season. The rest of the winners and recipes will be on the Pioneer’s Facebook page and new Website soon. Stay tuned.

Master Baker Division Nonna’s Piccola Crostata Tamara Aszklar, Master Baker First Place ¾ stick butter (6 Tbsp) 3 Tbsp sugar 1 egg ½ tsp vanilla (Italian recommended) 4 tsp baking powder 1 c + 2 Tbsp flour Grated lemon peel Jam (plum, raspberry, etc.) Mix the dough ingredients (excluding the jam) together until they just hold together. Press into a disk, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare a mini muffin pan by lightly coating the cups with a little butter and dusting with flour to prevent sticking. Preheat oven to 350°F. Reserve about ¼ c of the dough for the lattice topping. Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll or press into small circles (about 3” across) and press into the prepared pan. Fill each dough cup with a small amount of jam. Roll out the remaining dough and cut into thin strips. Place two small strips on top of the jam, making an “x” pattern. Lightly pinch in the sides of the circles to form a tiny edge overhanging the jam and to attach the small strips to the sides of dough. Bake for 12 minutes, rotating the pan once during baking.

Hamburger Cookies Tammy Cerruti, Master Baker, Second Place 1 11oz. box of Nilla Wafers 1 bag (1 lb., 3.75 oz.) York Dark Chocolate Peppermint Patties 1 small jar of Karo syrup 1 jar (1.87 oz.) of sesame seeds 1 tube (4.25 oz.) Kelly Green Wilton Decorating icing 1 tube (4.25 oz.) Red Wilton Decorating icing Lay the 24 Nilla wafers out on a cookie sheet with the flat side up. Take your green frosting and apply a dime size amount on cookies. Take your York peppermint patties and place on top of green frosting pressing down a bit. Take red frosting and apply a dime size amount on top of peppermint patties. Take your Nilla cookies and brush a strip of Karo syrup on the round side of the cookies and sprinkle a little of the sesame seeds on top. Press down on top of the red frosting. You just made Hamburger Cookies!

White Chocolate Macadamia Cookies Priscilla Williams, Master Baker, Third Place 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour ¾ cups sugar ½ cup (1 stick) margarine or butter (softened) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 large egg 8 ounces white chocolate, Swiss confectionery bar or white baking bar (chopped) 1 jar (7 oz.) macadamia nuts (chopped) Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Into large bowl, measure first seven ingredients. With mixer at medium speed, beat ingredients until blended, occasionally scraping bowl with rubber spatula. With spoon, stir in white chocolate and macadamia nuts. Drop mixture by rounded teaspoons, about two inches apart, onto ungreased, large cookie sheet. Bake cookies 8 to 10 minutes, until lightly browned. With pancake turner, remove cookies to wire rack to cool. Repeat with remaining dough. Store cookies in tightly covered container.

Teen Baker Division Gram’s Pumpkin Bars Savanha Groebner, Teen Baker, First Place

Bars: 1 c flour 1 c sugar 1 c canned pumpkin ½ c vegetable oil 2 eggs 1 tsp baking soda ¼ tsp salt 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. nutmeg Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish or cake pan. Mix together ingredients in one bowl. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Cool. Blend frosting ingredients and spread over cooled bars. Cream Cheese Frosting: 4 oz cream cheese (softened) 1 1/3 c powdered sugar 1¼ c margarine ½ tsp vanilla 1. Blend frosting ingredients and spread over the cooled bars.

Junior Baker Division Peppermint Fudge Cookies Annika Tuohey, Junior Baker, First Place Adapted from Godiva Chocolates recipe 6 oz dark semi-sweet chocolate 1 c sugar 1 stick (1/4 lb) unsalted butter, softened 2 eggs 1 ½ c all-purpose flour ½ tsp salt 1 ½ c peppermint M&Ms Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease 2 baking sheets. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Let cool 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, cream the sugar, butter and eggs until smooth. Beat in the cooled chocolate. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until smooth. Stir in the candies.

Cover and chill until firm, about 1 hour. Drop rounded teaspoons of dough 2” apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are slightly firm when touched. Let cool for 5 minutes, then remove the cookies to a cooling rack.

Ryan’s Snowman Cookies Ryan Ross, Junior Baker, Second Place 1 cup butter 1 2/3 cups sugar 2 eggs 4 teaspoons vanilla 3 cups flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt Cream butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla. (Mixture will be runny.) Sift flour, baking powder and salt. Blend in dry ingredients. Put on a piece of plastic wrap and chill overnight. Roll out on floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out and arrange on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes at 375 degrees. Icing: 2 cups powdered sugar 4 teaspoons milk 4 teaspoons light corn syrup 1 teaspoon almond extract Mix ingredients together. Spread icing on cookie, making sure that the icing drips off the sides to look like the snowman is melting. Take 8 large marshmallows and put on a plate that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Put in the microwave for 20 seconds so that the marshmallows start to puff up a little bit. Spray cooking spray on your fingers and then put a marshmallow on each cookie, near the back of the cookie. Using decorating icing, put a face, arms and buttons on the snowman.

Peppermint Truffle Cookies Jenny Linderman, Junior Baker, Third Place 8 oz. bittersweet baking chocolate ½ cup (1 stick) butter 1 cup sugar, divided 1 egg ½ teaspoon McCormick Pure Peppermint Extract 2 cups flour 36 Ande’s mints Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Microwave chocolate and butter in large microwavable bowl on HIGH 1 to 2 minutes or until butter is melted. Let stand 10 minutes to cool slightly. Add ½ cup of the sugar, egg and peppermint extract. Beat with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Gradually beat in flour on low speed until well mixed. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Press a chocolate candy into the center of each ball, forming dough around the candy to completely enclose it. Roll in remaining ½ cup sugar to coat. Place 1 inch apart on greased baking sheets. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until cookies are set. Cook on baking sheets 5 minutes. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

December 21, 2012

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 19

Rains create soggy but spectacular waterfall hike

KEVIN PARKER

I’d seen the falls before, but never quite like when the seasonal rains from a three-punch storm left me wondering if hiking this route alone was a good idea after all. Nonetheless I found myself making my way up Donner Canyon Road on a brisk morning just before dawn. The creek’s roar was an early sign of heavy rains which left the trails muddy and river-like in most places. A quick detour on Hetherington Trail proved to be difficult as even this creek crossing – via bridge – was almost impassable. I stayed on trail, dropped down and over Donner Creek again with water flowing almost to my knees, but managed to make it to trail’s end at Donner Canyon Road. Once back on Donner Canyon Road, follow Cardinet Oaks Road at the junction as you once again drop down and over Donner Creek and then abruptly pick up elevation as you head uphill towards Falls Trail. Falls Trail is a well-cut and travelled single-track trail that begins a smooth and easy course as you head further up

Photo Scott Hein

HIKER’S HAVEN

Cascade Falls into Donner and Wild Oat Canyons. Footing on this trail is sturdy with mostly rock which made for easier navigation on a very wet and muddy day. Falls Trail quickly produced what I had come for, which was waterfalls and plenty of them. Hiking up this trail also proved to be a bonus because of the distant views of waterfalls rushing down the rugged canyon that were more spectacular with every step. Even small creek crossings were transformed into gushing water blasts that looked to be magically appearing through the foliage. A series of creek crossings continued to make trail navigation a careful science, as I paid particular attention to my footing. At times I stood creekside, paralyzed by beauty, water and fear, wondering if I needed help or rope or both to cross. Luckily two hiking poles, the biggest jump these 41-year-old legs could muster and a bit of luck saw me over each creek safely. Pick up Middle Trail past

the scenic waterfalls and begin the descent as you flank the

lower part of Meridian Ridge, making the hike out very enjoy-

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able. Rocks, open views, sage, class-6 rapids and some of the finest trails Mt. Diablo has to offer were all present along this trail. Middle Trail opens up and eventually connects into Meridian Ridge and Donner Canyon Road as you make the final push back to Regency Gate. I hadn’t really noticed it much before, but as the rain fell in sheets (almost the entire hike), I could hear the creeks change almost like the waterfall had an immediate effect. I found a new respect for water that day and also reminded myself that nothing beats hiking using the buddy system.

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

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 21, 2012

Colorful daisies brighten up winter landscapes NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL African Daisies have come along way the past few years. These plants were once found everywhere, including hardwarestore garden centers. They were hardy, easy to grow and longblooming. But with masses available, year after year, plant lovers became board, and wanted something new. Hybridizers started working to develop an African Daisy with more excitement. They created Arctotis, and this group of African Daisies are fantastic. They are easy to grow, longblooming perennials that begin to look good starting now, while

other perennials are taking their winter rest, and will bloom through June for most everyone in our Clayton Valley climate. Arctotis plants have icy-silver colored foliage, which resembles elongated oak leaves. In the ground this perennial gets very happy as the weather cools. The foliage begins to look like billowy pillows of gray. It is very assuring to have a perennial in the landscape that begins to thrive just as so many are starting to rest. Even now, in the middle of December, the Arctotis plant’s flowers are beginning to emerge. Thick, robust stems hide in the piles of foliage, and when ready they curl towards the light. Tight buds then give way to pronounced daisy shaped flowers that are about 2-inches wide. Arctotis is available in many colors, from hot oranges to soft pinks.

The slick, deep orange-colored Arctotis Pumpkin Pie is amazing in a garden bed or landscaped area. This perennial’s flower petals appears to have sheen on them, their color is so deep. Once in full bloom an Arctotis can have almost more flower than leaves. Pink Sugar is another Arctotis worth mentioning since its color combination is very unique. Only in nature can the colors of pink and orange go together so well. The flower petals of the Pink Sugar Arctotis begin as a golden orange close to the center, and as the color stretches to the tip of the petal, the color evolves to a distinct pink. This is surely one of the more desirable colors in the Arctotis family. Burgundy Arctotis is a nice installation for those who are attracted to the reds and blues

Plant Arctotis in areas where you would desire more winter and spring interest, perhaps where you may have lantana or verbena. The two would complement each other, having opposite bloom times. With the gray leaves of the Arctotis, use in a landscape to contrast other colors of leaves. Install with red or variegated phormium for some colorful foliage drama. When researching Arctotis some national websites will have this plant family classified as an annual. This may be true in the snowy or frosty region, but here in the Clayton Valley, Arctotis will thrive and last. It is a wonderful addition.

‘PINK SUGAR’ AFRICAN DAISY

of the landscape. There is a lot of lavender to this particular Arctotis. Cherry Frost is a deep red shade of Arctotis. It would look great planted around a red foliage smoke tree. Hearts and

Tarts is a newer Arctotis, the petals of this selection alternate from goldish-orange to deep pink and magenta. The bloom on this selection reminds me of the lantana that is called Irene.

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden and the 2012 president of the Clayton Valley Garden Club. Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

Kiwifruit – funny name, fuzzy fruit, fabulous taste! DEBRA J. MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market

Kiwifruit is over 700 years old but has only been available in the United States since the early 1960s. Kiwifruit is actually a berry that grows on treelike shrubs, which can reach as high as 25 feet; trellised much like grapevines. The Hayward, named after nurseryman Hayward Wright, is the principal kiwifruit variety grown in California. Each fruit is egg-shaped and about three inches long with a thin, fuzzy,

brown skin. The flesh is bright green and studded with tiny edible black seeds in a beautiful sunburst pattern. California pro-

vides 99 percent of the kiwifruit consumed in the United States. For the sweetest, fullest flavor, look for ones that are

plump and slightly soft to the touch like ripe peaches. Unripe fruit has a hard core and a tart astringent taste. Avoid shriveled or mushy fruit, or those with bruises or wet spots. Ripen kiwifruit at room temperature for three to five days. Speed up the ripening process by putting kiwifruit in a paper bag with an apple, banana, tomato, or pear. These all give off ethylene gas, which speeds up the ripening process. Ripe kiwifruit should keep in a refrigerator for two to three weeks. Peel kiwifruit with a veg-

yellow bell pepper 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 1 tblsp. lime juice 1 tblsp. vegetable oil 1/2 to 1 small jalapeno pepper, minced, seeds and veins removed 1/4 tsp. salt

etable peeler or a sharp stainless-steel paring knife. Cut off both ends first, as this will make peeling easier. To eat the kiwifruit with a spoon, cut it in half and scoop out the flesh. KIWI SALSA 3 to 4 California kiwifruit, peeled and diced (1 1/2 cups) 2 medium tangerines or 1 orange, peeled and diced 1 cup peeled and diced jicama 1/2 cup diced sweet red or

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix well and chill. Makes about 2 1/2 cups. Serve as a dip with tortilla chips, toasted pita bread triangles or warm tortillas.

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