APR 26_Clayton_Pioneer_2013

THIS

WEEK

END

Clayto Cleans n Up April 27, 9 a

City H .m. all Co BBQ u rty lunch for vo ard lunte at 11 ers :30

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

April 26, 2013

0500

CBCA Art and Wine festival kicks off a bubbly summer Local artists find their inspiration in people and places of Clayton

JULIE PIERCE

MAYOR’S CORNER

DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

Clayton welcomes new Community Development Director

This year’s Clayton Art and Wine Festival, coming May 4 and 5, offers local families and out of town visitors alike exactly what its name says: art and wine.

But those in the know – from Mayor Julie Pierce to local vendors to savvy residents – will tell you there’s more to the Art and Wine than an afternoon of chardonnay, watercolors and sunscreen.

Now on its 18th year, the festival offers a place for locals to shop and stroll, but also to reconnect – and benefit their community – by doing so.

On behalf of everyone at City Hall, I welcome our new Community Development Director, Charles “Charlie” Mullen, who joined our city staff on Monday as the number-one candidate.

With a master’s degree in urban planning, Charlie comes to us from Lathrop, where he was the Principal Planner.

As the only planner in that department, he handled all current, advanced and counter-planning activities, so he is well-acquainted with keeping all the

See Mayor, page 7 Jason Rogers

Art is wonderful, wine makes it even more so, and benefitting the community while doing both puts the cork on the bottle! Local artisan Frank Quadrato, along with host, the Clayton Business and Community Association, invites you to join them at the Clayton Art and Wine Festival over the weekend of May 4-5.

City mourns passing of former police chief

OVER A BARREL Frank Quadrato loves a good crate of Cabernet. A barrel, and occasionally, of course, a glass. Quadrato, whose

See Art & Wine, page 6

Diablo View named state Distinguished School PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

The state of California last week confirmed what hundreds of students, teachers and staff already know: Diablo View Middle School is pretty cool.

The school was one of 13 middle and high schools in Contra Costa County named as a California Distinguished School by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, awarded because of their “strong commitment and innovative approaches to improving student-academic achievement.”

It’s a trait that DVMS Principal Patti Bannister is already aware of. “To be a strong school, it takes a village – students, teachers, staff and parents.”

She said that two of the school’s sig-

nature practices stood out as helping it receive the award.

“We have a very strong technology component that we integrate into many different curriculums,” Bannister says.

“All out teachers have iPads – bought by the parent/faculty club – that help students learn in a way they are familiar with. It really helps make science and other subjects relevant.”

In addition, she said, new technology has enabled students to actually make their own movies and presentations, something that doesn’t happen at every middle school.

She also said that the members of the site visit committee were inspired by the community-wide support for the “Do the Right Thing” initiative. “It is apparent how that program defines the

culture at the school,” she said. “People were impressed how all the schools in Clayton have adopted it, and the support they get from the community.”

Parents agree that there is a lot of collaboration between teachers, students, staff and parents. “DVMS has a

See School, page 4

Maddie Webster

PRINCIPAL PATTI BANNISTER (RIGHT) & VICE PRINCIPAL CHRIS CLAUSEN helped boost Diablo View Middle School to another California Distinguished School honor

FRED ALBRECHT

After a courageous 23-year struggle with heart disease, Fred Albrecht, former Police Chief of Clayton from 1983 to 1991, passed away with family by his side April 15, 2013. He leaves behind his loving companion of 33 years, Patty, son Steven, daughters Lisa and Linda and son-in-law, Bob. Fred had his first heart attack while chief in 1990, and retired from the police department in 1991. In 1994 he and Patty went on an adventure and moved to Phoenix, where he became director of Surveillance at Harrah’s Casino. They moved to Lake Tahoe in 1996, and Fred became director of Security at the Hyatt Regency in Incline Village. A year later, missing Clayton, they moved back where they have resided the last 16 years.

See Albrecht, page 4

Street paving project underway

The going will be smoother on a number of city streets when the city completes a $1.4 million street rehabilitation project by the end of May. Included in the project are the parking lots at City Hall, the library and Lydia Lane Park. For a list and schedule of street resurfacing, go to the city of Clayton website, www.ci.clayton.ca.us.

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Community Calendar . . . . .14 CVCHS Reporter . . . . . . . .17 Design and Décor . . . . . . . .18

How great is your

Mom?

Mom . . . she’s your biggest cheerleader and your staunchest supporter. She’s always there, orchestrating the day, getting dinner, finding lost socks, heading off disaster – often against some pretty tough odds.

And in between, she can always find time for a laugh and a snuggle.

Here is your chance to tell the world just how great your mom is.

Write the winning essay telling us why your mom should be crowned the Clayton Pioneer’s “Great Mom” and treat her to a giant gift package including dinner out, theater tickets, beauty products and spa days – everything she needs to feel pampered, pretty and appreciated.

Contestants must be a resident of our circulation area (if you get the Pioneer in your mailbox or in your driveway, you are in our circulation area) between the ages of 6 and 18.

Essays must be typewritten or neatly printed and at least 200 words but no longer than 350 words. Make sure your name, address, phone number and age are on your essay. Photo of the winner and mom will appear in the May 10 issue of the Clayton Pioneer.

Email your essay to tamara@claytonpioneer.com; or mail or drop it off at the Pioneer office at 6200 H Center St., Clayton. Deadline to enter is 5 p.m., April 29.

Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5 Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . .16 Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Food for Thought . . . . . . . .17 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .15 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 PHMS Reporter . . . . . . . . .17 Parenting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Speaking of Sports . . . . . . .11 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sports Shorts . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

April 26, 2013

Around Town City Council recognizes library volunteers

Students honored by city for Doing the Right Thing Eight local students stood before the City Council last week to receive accolades and certificates recognizing them for their outstanding self-discipline as part of the community-wide Do The Right Thing program.

around her aren’t making the best choices.”

Rulon Adams was nominated by his teacher, Mrs. Grispo.

“Rulon challenges himself. He plays fair and encourages others to follow.”

Finally, four CVCHS seniors received recognition for showing outstanding self-discipline.

Nominated by head coach Bruce Fister were Adeyemi “Yemi” Fashola and Cesar Luengas.

CAROL WOLF AND YOLA LIANG ARE FLANKED BY MAYOR JULIE PIERCE (far left) and Library Foundation Joyce Atkinson. Wolf and Liang were recognized at City Council last week as Library Volunteers of the Year

Two tireless women were honored by the city of Clayton last week, along with a cadre of other volunteers, for their service to the Clayton Community Library.

Carol Wolfe and Yola Liang were named 2013 Volunteers of the Year by the Clayton Library Foundation and presented with certificates by the city of Clayton.

Wolf has been part of the library since its inception, said Foundation president Joyce Atkinson. She hosted the initial organizational meeting in her living room, said Atkinson.

Wolf ’s service to the library began in 1995 and since then, she has worked 725 volunteer hours.

Yola Liang also began working for the library as a volunteer in 1995. She has put in over 600 hours.

The two women work as a

team shelving, sorting and keeping things in order. “They are self starters,” said Atkinson, and willing to do anything they can to help.

The Clayton Library leads the system in volunteerism, said Mayor Julie Pierce, with over 9000 hours of donated labor in 2012 alone.

Atkinson estimates the monetary value of the donated labor at over $187,000.

The Foundation sponsors two used book sales each year. It also mounts the Creekside Arts Festival in March. In 2012, the Foundation donated over $43,000 to the library for volunteer support, materials and education.

In recognition of these efforts, Mayor Julie Pierce proclaimed the week of April 21-27 Clayton Community Library Volunteer Week.

6024 High St., Clayton

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

BACK ROW: MAYOR JULIE PIERCE, DVMS STUDENTS WYATT YORK and Madison Webster; CVCHS students Gillian Reimann, Cesar Luengas, Devyn Wiesendanger and Adeyemi Fashola. In front are MDES students Rulon Adams and Jordan Webster.

Mayor Julie Pierce presented each certificate individually while the student’s teacher or principal spoke briefly on why each student was nominated.

While each student was recognized for their own special qualities, one theme was consistent throughout – the students are exemplary both in and outside of school. The Do The Right Thing even when no one is looking and they set a good example for other students.

Receiving awards from Mt. Diablo Elementary School were Jordan Webster and Rulon Adams.

“No one works harder” than Jordan, said her teacher, Mrs. Blazer; “Even when others

Not to be outdone by her sister, Jordan, Diablo View Middle School student Madison Webster was described by principal Patti Bannister as quiet, self sufficient and tireless.

“Madison never makes excuses, even when she has one,” said Mrs. Bannister.

Also from DVMS was Wyatt York who was nominated by teacher Mrs. Ploetz. “Wyatt gives 110 percent every day. He is always on task and ready to learn, even when the other kids are quite as ready. He has a gentle way of getting others to pay attention.” She said others have described him as an “island of self assurance in a sea of chaos.”

“He’s not the usual guy you see on the football field,” said Coach Fister of the slight-built Cesar. “But he has the biggest heart.”

This late in the school year, many seniors are in the throes of serious “senioritis,” said the coach.

“But not Cesar,” he said.

“He’s leaving a legacy and going out the right way.”

Fister lauded Yemi’s attendance record during his CVCHS career. “He’s never been late or tardy,” said Fister who said Yemi is popular with the underclassmen. “They follow him around like he’s a rock star and he shows those kids what it’s like to be a man.”

1171 Shell Lane, Clayton

‘Sup Around Town?

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

Please attach your photos to the email as JPEG files between between 3MB and 6MB and include a caption to identify people in your photos.

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CVCHS seniors Gillian Reimann and Devyn Wiesendanger are both members of the Link Crew, a program designed to help freshmen make the transition to high school. Link Crew head, Kat Marzel, recognized both young women for their contribution to the program.

“Gillian is that steady person in the background – her face is always there, working with the freshmen” said Ms. Marzel.

“Every time I walk by the group, she’s saying something interesting.”

Devyn Wiesendanger is “the little engine that could” said Ms. Marzel who described her as “outgoing” and “a leader.” In addition to being senior class president, Devyn holds down a job outside of school in the ROP program. She plans on a career in the army.

The DTRT program emphasizes six character traits over a year’s time; Responsibility, Respect, Kindness, Self-discipline, Integrity and Courage.

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April 26, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Teenage ‘Renaissance Man’ has sparked a powerful interest in science and art PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

Cameron Mira, Clayton’s resident 17-year-old Leonardo Da Vinci, is a familiar outdoor sight some nights near his home off Marsh Creek Road where the lightning from his latest tesla coils project brightens the night sky in colorful bursts.

an interactive experience that will appeal to fans of the BBC series Dr. Who. For those unfamiliar with TARDIS Tesla, it is an interactive electric performance game developed by Cameron that uses two large tesla coils, a replica TARDIS (the blue police box time machine in Dr. Who), and sonic screwdriver TV remotes.

SEVENTEEN-YEAR-OLD CAMERON MIRA, a self proclaimed “mad scientist & artist,” shows off one of his high-voltage inventions

But that original Renaissance Man didn’t have to worry about knocking out the neighbor’s wi-fi.

“Yeah, a couple of times we’ve lost wi-fi because of the project,” says Cameron. “I just have to remember to turn off the router before.”

With a brain like Cameron’s, there’s no question he’ll be able to remember small details like that. Known as CameronDAX, he is a self-proclaimed “mad scientist” with a passion for art and music, and he is quickly making a name for himself at Maker Faires – conventions of scientific and robotic inventions – throughout California.

His latest project is TARDIS Tesla #8, which he hope will be

Two players (or “companions,” in Dr. Who-speak) demonstrate their ability to use a sonic screwdriver to gain access to the TARDIS. It is the latest in many artmeets-science projects and games the DVC student has created, and he is currently looking for donations to help fund it so that it will be complete by the San Mateo Makers Faire in May. “I think that it’s important to be interactive,” he says. “You can look at something, or you can experience it by actually being a part of it. That’s why I enjoy creating games.”

Cameron’s mom, Carla, doesn’t think it’s odd that while most 17-year-olds are picking out senior ball tuxes and playing

“Halo,” her son spends his time creating sophisticated high-voltage gaming installations.

“He’s been wowing us since he was 2,” she says, recalling the time when, as a toddler, he used a screwdriver to completely dismantle a toy metal truck. Twice.

Or the time, at age 6, he rigged a toy phone to his parents VCR to make the phone ring. Or, at 10, he put some screws and guitar wire into a piece of driftwood and electrified it, making a homemade instrument.

Just normal activities for Cameron.

Carla Mira credits Cameron’s scientific and artistic inclinations – as well as that of his 8year-old brother Skylar – to the fact that she has home-schooled them. “Being home-schooled gave them the opportunity to follow their passions, and truly develop them at their own speed and level,” she says.

She took Cameron on frequent trips to local science centers and technology museums, and let him develop his passion “in his own way.”

Cameron graduated high school early, and after finishing at DVC he wants to pursue a degree in art, at either California College for the Arts in Oakland or the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

“My ultimate dream is to work for Pixar, so I feel like an art degree will help the most,” he says.

He credits his love of art to his mother, a local artist, and to the fact that he was never told anything he did was “bad art.”

“Every kid starts out an artist, but it gets beat out of them over time,” he says. “It’s sad.”

He likes to mentor Skylar when he needs it – and he rue-

Pamper Mom with the gift of

fully says that isn’t often – and also teaches at Oakland’s Hacker Scouts, the non-profit organization that focuses on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) education for young kids.

And he spends his nights coming up with fun high voltage science experiments that would even astound “The Doctor.”

For more information on Cameron and his projects, or to donate, visit http://camdax.dyndnsfree.com/index.php.

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Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Albrecht, from page 1 Fred had a 31-year career in law enforcement and was an Army veteran. He held a Masters Pin in pistol marksmanship.

Claytonians remember Fred as an avid fisherman and hunter, and Patty recalls the days of dove hunting up in the hills before Oakhurst was built. Many more remember Fred as the chief BBQ-meister at Clayton’s first “Round-Up,” where he generously doled out repeat portions of sirloin butts.

Most notably, Fred was honored and recognized in solving two cold-case murders, in San Bernardino and in Grand Junction, Colo. The latter was a mother-daughter homicide in the 1970s. This double murder, which haunted Fred for years, was only solved because of Fred’s diligence and quick think-

April 26, 2013

Healthcare call center to open in Concord

ing and evidence he meticulously collected at the scene – amazingly well preserved for DNA matching. Fred will truly rest in peace knowing justice has been served, and the murderer is now serving two life sentences.

A memorial service for Fred will be held on May 10 in San Bernardino, where he grew up and started his career in law enforcement.

Fred’s favorite causes were the Warrior Project [P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675] and the Fisher House Foundation [111 Rockville Pike, Ste. 420, Rockville, MD 20850, www.fisherhouse.org].

Fisher House helps the families of wounded servicemen and women with the cost of visiting their loved ones in the hospital such as airfare, hotel, etc.

A donation to either organization would honor Fred’s memory.

PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

The city of Concord is again stretching its economic muscles and showing signs of recovery as it adds another coveted enterprise to its business landscape.

Recently, the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors awarded a health insurance call center – and its more than 200 new jobs – to the city , edging out neighbors Pittsburg and Antioch, and the cross-county city of Richmond.

There was some fear the call center would leave Contra Costa altogether, but the board finally came to an agreement with Covered California, the group overseeing state’s implementation of the federal Affordable Care Act, in March. The state plans to open three call centers in California by the end of the year.

Call center employees will help the public with questions concerning their coverage under affordable care act.

“This is a great boon for the county, and for Concord in particular,” says Concord’s Economic Development and Housing manager John Montagh. “It will attract new jobs, and continue to show the strong economy that is being created here in central Contra Costa.”

It’s a sentiment obviously shared by county officials.

“I’m very pleased that Contra Costa County was selected by the State for the location of one

of three call centers in California,” says Supervisor Karen Mitchoff. She says that the Board of Supervisors selected the best site – Concord – based on the lowest cost to the state and at no cost to the county.

“The best news is how many new jobs – 214 – will be created and located here in Contra Costa,” she says.

People interested in applying can call the Contra Costa County Human Resources Department at 925-335-1700 or apply online at www.cccounty.us/hr [click on the “Job Opportunities” link, and select exchange customer

Dana Hills greenbelt gets new water-saving irrigation

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A block-long greenbelt between Mt. Duncan Dr. and Mountaire Parkway in the Dana Hills subdivision has been outfitted with a new irrigation system focused on efficiency and water conservation.

The project, which was going on simultaneously with street work in the area by the city of Clayton, includes five times as many sprinklers as the previous system. The new install provides for fuller, more efficient lawn coverage and eliminates water on the walkway that runs through the greenbelt. The Dana Hills Homeowners Association funded the project.

School, from page 1 great staff,” says parent Lynette Woods. “They are always ready to raise the bar and challenge students, and the students really respond.”

She said that as a seventh and eighth grader, her son Connor was enrolled in a partial home-school situation with DVMS, and that the staff went

service agent I or II]. Already close to 5,000 people have applied, according to the county.

The call center will be located in 30,000 square feet of office space at 2500 Bates Ave., part of the former Comcast building.

The call center is just the latest in new businesses opening their doors in Concord.

Recently, WCS Lending leased out 24,000 square feet of office space on Grant Street in downtown Concord, and Concord Honda relocated to its new, larger location in the three-acre site of the old Expo Design Center on Concord Avenue.

“out of their way” to design a curriculum for him. He is now a junior at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Her youngest, daughter Alexa, is a sixth grader at DVMS. “It’s easy to see that the teachers really care about the students.”

This is the second time the

school has been honored as a Distinguished School, having been named one back in 2007, Bannister said.

Distinguished Schools must meet a variety of eligibility criteria, and they must provide an in-depth description of two Signature Practices that their staff members believe have contributed to the success of their students.

April 26, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

CVHS Class of 2003 planning 10-year reunion P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA

AND

R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers

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

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

PIONEER INFO

A 10-year reunion for Clayton Valley class of 2003 is tentatively set for Friday, Oct. 18 at Scott’s Garden in Walnut Creek.

The reunion committee is calling for early reservations says committee member Meghan Pardi.

“We need $75 per person ($150 per couple) so we can give a deposit to Scott’s Garden.”

To reserve a place, make a check payable to “Reunion 2003” and mail to Reunion, 3 Weatherly Dr., Clayton, CA 94517.

Enclose an e-mail address with the check to receive a receipt and details on the event.

If the committee doesn’t receive enough early reservations to assure the deposit, the event will be cancelled and reservation money will be

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

CONTACT US

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.

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

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.

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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Classified CHILDCARE/ PRESCHOOL Clayton Community School at Mt. Diablo Elementary offers school age childcare 6:45 a.m. to 6:15 p.m.; Preschool 9 to 11:30 a.m. Mon. – Fri. Call 672-0388 for details. Summer Program enrollment now.

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GARDEN SERVICES Flower Gardening by Nicole Hackett. Perennial, ornamental, rose & container care. Keep your garden in flowers this year with monthly fertilizing & pruning visits. Email for consult or details.

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HELP WANTED Computer Tech Growing business has position for onsite pro computer tech in Contra Costa County. Must have experience in Windows and Mac OS, network repair and troubleshooting. ComputersUSA! 672-9989.

IN-HOME CARE Clayton residents, call for free trial offer. May, June, July.

Quality care, 24/7. Contra Costa In-Home Care: Keeping you in your home is our goal and yours.

Appointments: Sharon 822-7101.

OPEN HOUSE Join us for a Toastmasters Open House. Guest Speaker and Distinguished Toastmaster: Brendan James Murphy. Monday, April 29, 7 p.m. Montecito, 4756 Clayton Rd, Concord. Email contact-400@toastmastersclubs.org or go to 400.toastmastersclubs.org.

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WANTED

Our amenities include:

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care Private and Companion Studios Restaurant-style Dining Sun-filled Courtyards and Private Patios Professional and Caring Staff 24 hours a day Scheduled Transportation & Concierge Service Life Enriching Activities Housekeeping and Laundry Services

Call Juliana today for complimentary lunch, tour and ask about our move-in specials.

Come join Mazzei Realty!

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

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

VOLUNTEERS Help Fight Hunger Anna Chan – AKA: The Lemon Lady needs your help! Weekly commitment appreciated. For more info and contact numbers, go to thelemonlady.blogspot.com.

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.

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.

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

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Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Min age 13.

Min commitment 6 mo. Training provided. Contact: Arlene at 6739777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com.

Page 5

Directory of Advertisers Auto Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Beauty and Pampering Bella Mia Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-7792 Business Services Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . . .672-8717 Village Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7344 Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 Iron Horse Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .595-3951 Steffan Smith Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0497 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Memo's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0395 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737, ext. 205 Events CBCA – Art and Wine Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2272 City of Clayton – Concerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7300 Oakhurst Community Garage Sale – Joe Dajani .672-3000 Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9090 Financial and Insurance Services Held, Chris – Morgan Stanley Smith Barney . . . .930-3815 Littorno, Richard – Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Mingham, Pete – Guild Mortgage Company . . . .906-8166 Prosperitas Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7700 Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Groceries Doorstep Farmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .349-4568 Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Contra Costa Water District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .688-8320 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Flooring City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-8220 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Optometry Foresight Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4100 Pet Services Cat Hospital of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2287 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Pittsburg Pet Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodie's Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Howard, Don – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . .408-3184 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . . .567-6170 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Kali Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276-0845 Levity Fitness Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2995 Senior Services Courtyards at Pine Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-3900 Diablo Senior Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-2936 Montecito – Oakmont Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . .852-6702 Services, Other ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 Tat It Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5674 Travel Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840

Integrity Do the Right Thing

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Nick Zefeldt nominated for 2013 Contra Costa Teacher of the Year

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Reach

Clayton native Nick Zefeldt – who spent his own school years at Clayton Valley High, Diablo View Middle and Mt. Diablo Elementary School – is now one of 20 educators nominated for the 2013 Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year award.

After getting his teaching credential and master’s degree in education with a focus on curriculum development from the Cal State University East Bay Concord campus, Zefeldt landed his first job in 2007 at brand new Live Oak in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. The school now has 1,120 students and 45 teachers. Zefeldt is in his sixth year teaching at the school.

“Nick is an amazing educator who truly connects with each individual student,” said Nadine Rosenzweig, Live Oak Elementary School principal. “He is held in the highest regard by our staff and parent community.”

Zefeldt jokes that he cringes when he sees his young countenance (“just shy of 23”) in the staff picture from his first school year hanging in the office. Six years later Zefeldt is not exactly an elder statesman but his stature is such that he spends two days a week teaching his colleagues in the brave new world of instructional technology. At times he’s even called into the district office in Danville to work with principals from the other 34 schools as they endeavor to implement the technology program that Zefeldt has brought to Live Oak. The first three days of each week Zefeldt, 29, is in his fifthgrade classroom with his 31 students, teaching them their core classes. He taught third grade in his first three years at Live Oak. Zefeldt went to UC Santa Cruz following his 2001 graduation from Clayton Valley High, not knowing what career path he was going to pursue. After college he went on a 10-week backpacking trip to Central America before returning to help coach

Photo courtesy SRVSD

Nick Zefeldt spent his school life in Clayton from first grade at MDES through his college years. Now he’s teaching fifth graders like his student Niharika Alapati at Live Oak Elementary in San Ramon. His work in using technology in the classroom has garnered the newlywed Zefeldt a Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year nomination.

the Dana Hills Swim Team, where he trained from 5-yearsold to 18. The educator parents of a Dana Hills swimmer encouraged him to consider teaching since they noticed how good he was working with children on the team.

TEACHING IN THE BLOOD His mom Cecilia is a former teacher (she now works in administration at Cal State East Bay) so he certainly had a role model in the home. His dad Jim now has a bookkeeping business but previously setup up computer networks for U.S. Steel. In the ‘80s and early ‘90s he’d bring home the earliest PCs such as a dual floppy disk computer that Nick and younger brother Mat (now a college professor in Minnesota) would “play” with, instilling an interest in computers and technology that Nick Zefeldt is now passing on to his students and fellow educators.

Live Oak has one MacBook for every two students in third through fifth grades. Zefeldt also uses a smart board and doc camera in his instruction. “When I was young the Internet didn’t exist as it does today. Now with Google you’re three clicks away from answering any question. We

Art & Wine, from pg 1 of course, a glass. Quadrato, whose Restoration Barrel Design booth will be at the festival, has turned his love for wine into both an art form and a profit center. Using the wood from the crates and barrels he gets from local wineries, and corks donated from local merchants like Ed Moresi, he and his wife Lisa create everything from clocks and wine racks to chairs and tables,

Push

Pull Lift

many still carrying the names of local wineries.

Quadrato first began designing waterfalls made from wine barrels as a way to make money to help his son buy an old truck to restore.

“We made $3,500 and bought the truck,” he says. Parts were needed next, and so they made a few more. Not long after, on friends’ urging, Quadrato

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need to prepare students for the future and whatever that technological reality will be,” he says.

“We can’t keep waiting for the classroom of the future.

We’re in the classroom of the future now and we need to unlock it to work for both teachers and students,” he adds.

INSPIRATIONS FROM HIS PAST He recalled some teachers who were inspirations along his educational path. From Diablo View he mentioned Shawn Wells and Russ Rackow, and while at CVHS he cited his teachers and coaches (water polo and swimming, respectively) Jim Morgan and Matt Chamberlain, along with Kip Penovich (“he taught me that education is the student’s responsibility”) and Theresa Young (his English teacher “who taught me how to give voice in my writing”).

There are more than 7,900 teachers educating approximately 169,000 students in Contra Costa County’s public schools. A committee this month will whittle down the 20 district winners to five finalists for the Teacher of the Year Award. Classroom observations, interviews and a speech presentation will be used to make the final selection, which

entered the festival and his products became a hit.

Quadrato’s children are all grown now, but he continues to create. His work has shown at the Clayton Art and Wine Festival and Oktoberfest, as well as down the road at a Lafayette event, but Quadrato prefers the Clayton show, populated by his friends and neighbors.

“Our community is down there to have a good time and to shop and buy stuff,” he says.

“And then we have a barbecue at our house afterwards.”

Clayton Mayor Julie Pierce says that in addition to having a good time, attendees of the festival are benefitting Clayton with every dollar they spend.

In past years, the festival, sponsored by the Clayton Business and Community Association, has made over $100,000, which it turns right back around via grants to the civic activities.

Pierce listed college scholarships for local students, the gazebo in The Grove, and the benches that line Main and Center Streets as just a few of the benefits the CBCA has donated from the proceeds.

“It’s the community giving back to the community,” says Pierce, “and we’re having a good time at the same time.”

PHOTO FINISHES Don Kent’s love for the area can be seen through the lens of his camera. Kent has travelled the country, first in the military, and following that during his career in telecommunications.

will be awarded Sept. 26.

Cindy Egan (Secondary School Teacher of the Year) and Zefeldt (Elementary School Teacher of the Year) are representing San Ramon Valley in the TOY program. “Cindy and Nick both represent what is truly amazing about education,” said Superintendent Mary Shelton.

“We are proud of what they do every day to engage and make a difference in the lives of their students.” They are tops this year among 1,500 teachers in the district.

Zefeldt summed up his role at Live Oak: “We’re really cutting edge; at the tip of the spear. I’m able to combine my passion for technology and gadgets and pass it down educating the new generation.”

The Crossings to host nonprofit fair Many local nonprofit organizations will be on hand at The Crossings Non Profit & Volunteer Fair on Sunday, May 19.

Residents can find out about a variety of programs and services that need volunteers. Some of the diverse groups attending will be the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association, The Gardens at Heather Farms, the Monument Crisis Center, Concord Police Volunteers and Alzeimer’s Association. Each group will have information on how to get involved on a volunteer basis.

The Fair is hosted by The Crossings Homeowners Association, and will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Crossings’ Clubhouse, 4456 South Larwin Ave., Concord. (The development is located off Cowell Road just north of Ygnacio Valley Road – where the smokestack used to be.) Entry is free to exhibitors and to the public. For more information contact Keith Patterson at kcp.concord@gmail.com.

He’s seen many places, but it’s Clayton that captured his heart.

“We got to know a lot of the community,” he said, when he and his wife, an elementary school teacher, came to the area from St. Louis in 2001. “We became friends with teachers, community people, vendors, the people of Clayton. We like the small townfeel and what it offers.”

His perspective on the area can be seen at the Art and Wine Festival at his booth, Don Kent Photography.

The first year he entered, in 2004, was daunting.

“When you put your wares out for display, you don’t know how people will react,” he said.

But that first year, he was pleasantly surprised to find he was welcomed by festival organizers and other vendors alike.

Although his images span the world, from the Napa Wine country, Yosemite National Park, to as far away as Australia, Kent says he especially enjoys shooting the trails of Mt. Diablo and even downtown Clayton.

“Even the mundane shots, like the Clocktower, remind me of Norman Rockwell, a little bit,” he says.

That feeling, he said, carries over to the festival. “You see everybody out with the dogs and kids – you see everybody you know.”

“But you also listen, and you hear everybody talk about what a great town Clayton is.”

See Art and Wine Festival ad on page 4 for more information.

April 26, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 7

Closing date delays are frustrating, but not rare LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS Q. My husband and I are selling our house, and we have been frustrated by some delays in our closing date.

Why does this happen?

A. Closing delays often have to do with the buyer’s new home loan. For example, lenders require that buyers have a homeowner’s insurance policy in effect at closing. If this critical item is overlooked, closing will have to be postponed until the buyers have their insurance in place.

A closing could be late if the funding check from the buyer’s lender isn’t issued on time. This can happen if you don’t sign you loan documents promptly – a situation over which you have control. A circumstance over which you have a little control is a delay due to lender backlog. This will occur when there’s a lot of refi-

nancing and/or busy real estate market. If you know the lender is busy, try to get all your loan related paperwork in early.

Sometimes work on the property needs to be completed before the closing can take place. For example, if the lender requires that the termite work be done and the work is delayed for some reason, your closing will have to be postponed. If you’re buying a new construction and the completion date is held up, your closing will be delayed.

Sometimes the lender imposes last minute additional requirements, such as review appraisal of the property or a further explanation of a credit defect. When your loan is approved, be sure to ask if there are any loan conditions that must be met before closing. If there are, get these resolved as soon as possible.

When two home sales are closing concurrently, a delay in one can cause a delay in the other.

This can happen if you’re buying a home from a seller who’s buying

another home. If the seller listed his home contingent upon a simultaneous close with the home he’s purchasing and that closing is delayed, then your closing will also be delayed.

Closing can’t take place without the buyer’s money for down payment and closing costs. Buyers often have money wired from various accounts. If wire orders aren’t placed early enough or if wire routing instructions aren’t correct, closing will be delayed.

The first thing to do when you hear that your closing isn’t going as scheduled is to stay calm. Be sure that your agent informs all other parties involved in the transaction that there is an unavoidable delay. Get a written extension of the closing if it will be postponed for longer than 24 hours. The last thing you should do, no matter how frustrated you may feel, is call the loan processor directly to complain. Let your loan agent handle the problem if it’s related to your new loan.

Ideally, buyers shouldn’t take

Travis Credit Union Receives Federal WISH and IDEA Grant Funds to Assist First-Time Homebuyers Travis Credit Union announced today that the credit union will receive 2013 grants from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) to help those with low to moderate incomes buy their first homes. Buyers must live within Travis’ 12-county service area.

Eligible first-time homebuyers may apply for up to $15,000 in matching grant funds to be used for the down payment and closing costs. Under the WISH Program, FHLB will provide matching grants through Travis Credit Union up to $3 for every dollar contributed by the homebuyer toward a home purchase.

The program is designed to help working households in highcost areas purchase homes.

Additionally, Travis Credit union works with the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of San Francisco to offer the Individual Development and Empowerment Account (IDEA) program to low and moderate-income households.

FHLB sets aside a portion of its annual Affordable Housing Pro-

gram contribution to provide matching grants through Travis Credit Union for down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers who have saved under Individual Development Account (IDA) or Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) programs. This program provides up to $15,000 for each household, matching up to $3 for each $1 saved by the homebuyer.

“The recent recession has hit communities hard all across Northern and Central California, but its impact has been especially harsh for those who were already struggling to make ends meet,” said Patsy Van Ouwerkerk, president and CEO of Travis Credit Union.

“These grants are designed to provide low and moderateincome individuals and families the chance of realizing their dream of homeownership. Even in this challenging economic climate, with these grants, I believe we can help these families achieve their financial goals.”

Travis Credit Union is one of

Mayor, from page 1 plates spinning. Previous to his work in Lathrop, Charlie was Planning Director in Red Bluff and Senior Planner in San Ramon.

We also want to thank our interim Community Development Director, Ken Craig, who did a great job of keeping everything in planning on track and offered valuable fresh perspectives during his three months with us.

BUDGET TIME At this time of year, we start planning next year’s city budget.

Our very conservative budgeting traditionally underestimates revenues and overestimates expenses in a lean $3.7million general fund budget to run the city. It is part of staff ’s daily mission to keep operational expenses down.

To that end, we’ve researched the cost-benefit that might occur by upgrading our HVAC systems at city hall and the library. Unfortunately, necessary upgrade costs would greatly outweigh the minor

energy efficiencies we would achieve.

Likewise, at the request of many citizens, we looked again at the expense to install more efficient pumps at the Clayton fountain so the geysers might be run more frequently. Most of the pumps are already energyefficient and the pay-back period of more efficient pumps would be over 40 years with a much less life-expectancy – not a wise investment. Additionally, even with more efficient pumps, the cost to run the fountain daily would still be nearly $100,000 per year. That’s certainly not in the budget you voted on. So, the geysers on the fountain will continue to be run on specified holidays and special-event weekends only. Residents may have them run on other occasions for a fee of $300 per weekend.

For the past five years there have been no merit or cost-ofliving increases for city staff and they have taken 11 unpaid furlough days (equivalent to a 4.3 percent pay cut) each year to

only five credit unions in California to receive grant funds for the WISH and IDEA programs this year.

To apply for the program, call the Travis real estate department at (888)-698-0000.

FREE SEMINAR To help the first-time buyer navigate the home-buying process, Travis Credit Union will offer a free seminar from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 27.

Preparation for home ownership begins long before the purchase actually takes place.

This seminar covers pre-purchase issues such as budgeting, determining how much house is affordable, saving for a down payment and other costs, credit reports, debt-to-income ratios, as well as the mortgage lending process.

The seminar will be held at Centre Concord, located at 5298 Clayton Road in Concord. To reserve your spot, call 707-449-4000 or 800877-8328.

help keep our budget balanced.

Clayton is one of very few cities that has never drawn on its general fund reserves ($5.2 million) to fill budget gaps or pay ongoing costs during this troubling recession. We have judiciously kept that fund, as intended, in reserve for one-time emergency expenses.

So far, we are cautiously optimistic that the economy is somewhat in recovery. A couple new businesses have opened in downtown and interest in developing empty lots is stirring.

Home sale prices are rising which will help strengthen property tax returns to our city coffers. Hopefully, those increases in revenue will keep pace with dramatic 10 to 20 percent increases in costs the city is charged by other agencies next fiscal year for sewer, various insurance coverage, etc. It’s always a tight balancing act. We are grateful residents understand and appreciate our need to continue to be frugal, just like you are doing.

As always, you can contact me by email at JPierce@ci.clayton.ca.us. Let me know what you think!

possession of their new homes until the sale has closed. Whenever possible, postpone the move until the last-minute problem has been sorted out. In busy real estate markets, it may not be possible to reschedule professional movers late in the game. As a last resort, the buyer can ask the seller for permission to occupy the property before the closing and, if the seller is agreeable, an addendum should be drawn up indicating the terms and conditions under which the buyer can move in early. An interim occupancy agreement should also be signed by the buyer and seller, and the buyer’s personal property and liability insurance should be in effect as of the date of occupancy.

Lynne French is a real estate broker in Clayton. Email your questions to lynne@lynnefrench.com, or call her at (925) 672-8787.

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Other restrictions apply including brochure terms and cancellation/change fees. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. CST#: 2020955-50.

Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Diablo Senior Homes Residential Care Home for Seniors

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Today, if one hears the name of artist Claude Monet, what comes to mind is a picture of a Japanese bridge crossing a garden pond filled with water lilies, not the selfserving, ego-driven man depicted in Stephanie Cowell’s novel Claude and Camille.

(Broadway; April 2011) Just as Monet was compelled to create a telling light in his paintings, Cowell seeks to turn a realistic, yet sympathetic light on the life of Claude Monet and his relationship with Camille Doncieux, his model, mistress and wife.

The biographical novel can be a tricky endeavor for the best of writers, but judging from the “Historical Notes” included at the end of the book and Cowell’s strong narrative, Claude and Camille is not only a rich and rewarding novel of the tortuous love between Claude and Camille, but also a most enlightening history of the Impressionist movement. For those of us who were in the Bay Area between April and July of 1986 and lucky enough to have attended the “New Painting Impressionism 1874-1886” exhibit at the de Young Memorial Museum, this novel will make you wish for a second visit.

The story begins with a mystery. The year is 1908, the place, Giverny, and Monet is reading a letter from Camille’s sister Annette, accusing him of being responsible for Camille’s death in 1879. From brief moments in Giverny toward the end of Monet’s life, the story runs swiftly back to his time as a young artist — a life which, in the last half of the 19th century, is not nearly as romantic as depicted in his 1865 Luncheon on the Grass. In reality, young Monet, Renoir, Pissaro, Bazille and Manet, are perfect images of the starving

FOR

THE

BOOKS

artist. If not supported by their families or patrons, they took jobs where they could find them, often sharing apartments, meals and debts. Monet had scant help from his father and refused almost all other work, regardless of obligations. Claude and Camille also offers an intimate introduction to a group of young and

“Hi Tamara: We want to let you know how much we enjoy the Clayton Pioneer. It really makes us feel connected to the community.

When we take the mail out of our mailbox and the Clayton Pioneer is there, it's the first thing we read. Thanks for a great publication.”

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I traveled to Seattle recently and was amazed at the number of mobile devices travelers were using. At the airport I decided to walk around and do an informal survey of those people using a device vs. those not. I was stunned. In one cluster of 14 people, they were all wired and actively using mobile.

While this is not a scientific survey, it appeared to me as I walked around that three out of

it is obvious that the general population is embracing these devices at an amazing pace. I wondered about the mountains of data streams that were in use; Version and AT&T would be proud. Then, I broke out my Nokia smartphone and read an article on Google Glass.

Glass is a new device created

by Google and its partners, as a wearable computer link. Glass is the latest in mobile computing and should be on sale later this year. A few other companies are also making similar eyeglasses or watches and one could expect adoption will be as great as with the current trend in smartphones. It seems the revolution of mobile devices will continue

four people were using smartphones, tablets, laptops or other devices to do work, play games and do other stuff I had no idea of. I figured that many of those that didn’t have devices in their laps or hands had them stashed away in their carry-ons.

What to make of it all? Well,

unabated and Glass will be a game changer. Just what we need, another gadget.

Glass gives you a tiny computer screen over your right eye, a tiny earpiece that transmits sound through your skull, a miniature transmission device to link your Glass to a cell phone,

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seascapes of his youth.

Cowell succeeds in depicting two equally flawed characters with enough honesty and empathy that the reader, always with the foreknowledge of Monet’s ultimate success, cares deeply. Claude and Camille is best read with a book of Monet’s paintings nearby.

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.’

The Glass is half-full in this wired world

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unrecognized artists whose work we know today like the backs of our hands.

From the moment Monet first sees Camille until he meets her several years later, we know a great love story is about to begin. She is very young, beautiful and headstrong. She looks for a means to escape her family’s expectations and almost immediately recognizes Monet as her way out.

Theirs is a relationship with only brief respites from upheaval. Monet paints most successfully when outside and by himself, but Camille is plagued by periods of deep depression. When money is scarcest, Monet will abandon Camille to the care of her sister or friends or herself while he returns to Le Havre and the

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the Internet, and well, who knows, plus an always-on camera.

According to ZDNet, a geek publication, “…Glass is very much different from all of these technologies. While it is at the end of the day a mobile technology platform just like a smart phone or a tablet, it differs in that it is an “always-on” technology that has one particular feature that the others do not – and that’s the issue…”

So, the future is here, and it’s a little weird. Just like the character “Geordi,” an engineer on the TV series “Star Trek: The Next Generation” who had to use a visor to improve his vision, people will be walking around with Glass always on, always looking up what is in front of them, and talking (presumably) to themselves. “With Glass, because the device is being worn, and there’s no indication of when it is being used, one has to assume that the wearer is recording everyone all of the time,” says ZDNet. Will a market for “AntiGlass” pop up, similar to antivirus programs for computers? Could the Glass development be the start of “shields,” systems like those used in space movies? Well, life imitates fiction so, we’ll see. Shields-up, red alert!

William Claney is a professional computer consultant and technical writer. Will is the CEO of CUSA (ComputersUSA!) an IT repair and support center located in the Clayton Station shopping center. He is available for comments: 925-672-9989 and says, “retirement is overrated.”

April 26, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Stability ball enhances your yoga workout for balance, flexibility A yoga ball is a very helpful tool in personal fitness. This following workout shows a variety of yoga-based poses done using a stability ball to provide support in helping you improve balance and flexibility. The stability ball is a great way to get extra

support for moves that require endurance and flexibility and it also adds a balance challenge to some poses.

Do this workout anytime as often as you like for better balance and flexibility.

The size of the ball makes a difference and you may want to use a smaller ball for some

movements. Take your time with these moves and use extra support when needed. Always avoid any exercises that cause pain or aggravate any injuries and, of course, check with your doctor if you have any medical conditions.

1) Squats with the Ball Stand and place the hands on the ball. Squat down, keeping the knees behind the toes, and roll the ball out, stretching through the arms and chest.

Inhale and straighten the knees while rolling the ball back in.

Repeat for eight to10 reps.

2) Upward Facing Dog and Downward Facing Dog From the squats above, come down to your knees and lean onto the ball, rolling forward until your hips are centered on the ball, legs straight.

Press hands into the ball inhale as you push the chest up and straighten the arms, looking up.

Exhale and roll forward, placing hands on the floor pushing the body up into an inverted v position, arms and legs straight and heels pressing into the floor.

Position the ball so that your chest and upper thighs are supported. Inhale and move back into Up-dog, alternating each for five to eight reps.

3) Spinal Rotation Sit on the ball and extend the legs, feet flexed, and arms out to the sides. Sitting tall and keeping the back straight, rotate the torso to the right and reach the arm out and towards the right foot. Rotate back to center and then to the left, reaching for the toes. Continue rotating, concentrating on lengthening the spine.

Repeat for eight to10 reps on each side.

4) Warrior I to Warrior II and Side Angle Get into a lunge position on

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the ball, right leg forward the left leg straight out behind you, foot flat. Square the hips forward and sweep arms overhead and slightly back. Hold for fourto-six breaths and then lower the arms and turn the body to the side, stretching through the arms. Hold for four to six breaths. From there, take the right arm down and place the hand on the floor while stretching the left arm straight up.

Hold for four to six breaths.

Repeat the series on the other side.

5) Child’s Pose From the above exercise, sit back on the heels and roll the ball out, relaxing the head and stretching through the chest.

Shift the hips to the right and gently roll the ball to the left the stretch through the back, repeating on the other side. Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds.

Ilima Heuerman holds multiple fitness certifications. She trains at Levity Fitness studio in Clayton. Email Ilima at IlimaHeuerman@levityfitness.com

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In parenting, everything is routine steffansmith61@yahoo.com In the midst of all the hustle and bustle of life in today’s fast-paced world, the presence of routines in a child’s daily life can help to offer him predictability and calm. This predictability and calm then helps to establish good emotional health for a child as he travels from infancy to adulthood.

An infant soon learns that his crying will bring his parent to him and that he will then be fed, diapered, played with and put back to bed. The constant repetition of this routine brings about trust and predictability for the infant regarding his world. The infant who has learned to trust in his caregiver and in the predictability of routines can then become a secure and confident toddler. This confident toddler is then empowered to travel further and further away from the security of his parent’s arms and to happily explore his world.

DARCIE AZZOLINI PAIVA POCKET PARENTING As the toddler becomes a 2-year-old, having predictability in his world, as well as the setting up of boundaries by his parents, is of particular importance. The 2-year-old is all about wanting to get control of his world. He has very little inner self control at this time, however, and is not capable of “being in charge.” It is, therefore, important for the parent to step up to the plate and to be consistent and predictable in their expectations of the child. The offering of choices

to the 2-year-old throughout his day (“Do you want to wear the red shirt or the blue shirt?” etc.) can go a long way in helping the child to feel more independent.

The nightly task of putting children to bed can be particularly challenging for parents.

The setting up of a bedtime routine can help to smooth out this process for everyone. Dan S. Sweeney, Ph.D. offered the following suggestions in his “Sleep Challenges” seminar: Set specific bedtimes and be consistent in following: Establish a consistent routine ( e.g. brush teeth, say “Good night” to family members, listen to story, etc.); Supervise the routine; Avoid stimulating activities and media prior to bedtime; Have children only sleep in their beds – no toys, no books; Avoid discussing topics at bedtime that will encourage excitement ( an up-coming trip

to Disneyland) or that may cause anxiety (parent traveling out of town); Establish specific wake up times.

The routine of a family sitting down together for meal time is also of great importance for children, as it helps to establish in them a sense of belonging and of self-worth.

The family table enables children to feel acknowledged, as their thoughts and ideas are listened to by their parents and siblings. Respect for the thoughts of others will hopefully evolve as the children learn the art of conversation.

It can be difficult being a kid in this fast-paced world.

Let’s give our children the extra support and nurturing that routines can provide. It will be worth the effort.

Darcie Azzolini is Director of Developmental Services at We Care Services in Concord.

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Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

April 26, 2013

Sports Clayton Valley Charter baseball, spring teams in home stretch before post-season NCS playoffs JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

League and section championships are up for grabs as spring season moves into May and the conclusion of the 2012-13 high school sports calendar.

Clayton Valley Charter High School teams are in the home stretch seeking top performances.

BOYS GOLF Jen Moore has lots of experience coaching Clayton Valley golf but until this spring it was all with the girls program. The ceramics and art teacher is now also in charge of the boys team.

She inherited a young team, even more so after senior Wyatt Dane took a job in lieu of playing this spring. The top returning Eagles are juniors Kevin Cuff and Eric Carlson along with sophomores Ryan Stickney and Liam Calkins.

New to varsity are freshmen Tyler Duncan, Marcellus Medrano and Tyler Blazer along with soph Jesse Ladd.

In recent matches Cuff and Calkins were low scorers for CVCHS with Ladd, Stickney and Medrano next in line.

The Diablo Valley Athletic League Championships are hosted by Northgate next Monday.

Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Charter baseball

Clayton Valley Charter baseball was third in the 16-team Crown Classic during spring break, winning three of four games. They currently are ranked eighth in the East Bay and winners of 12 of their first 15 games. The team includes, kneeling from left, Herc Pardi, John Ballard, Graham Pimm, Eddie Juarez, Garrett Nelson, Ethan Utler, Mark Peterson; standing, Dave Leal, Matt Bucci, Grant Meylan, Tanner Wraa, Clayton Nodal, Riley Smith, Ryan Snyder, Ryan Williams, Gabe Taylor, Jesse Medrano, Josh Ballard, Casey Coakley, Brady Formoso, Austin Cannedy and Matt Kavanaugh.

BOYS LACROSSE Coming off four straight DVAL championships coach Matt Hill’s team

Scott Anderson

Coach Shaun Guest is hoping junior Sara Abele will help lead his Eagle swimmers with her swims in the 200 individual medley and 100 breaststroke. Abele was second team all-DVAL a year ago in swimming and last fall was second team all-NCS in water polo.

is led by Clayton Martin and Dakohta Cramer while newcomer Marc Jalbert has also been a key performer. The Eagles recently went through a stretch of eight losses in nine games but is 3-1 in DVAL play as they are chasing Piedmont for the top spot.

North Coast Section playoffs begin May 14-15 as the Eagles hope to reach the playoffs for the fifth straight year.

TRACK AND FIELD New coach Darren Newell’s track and field squads will have a busy May with league, area and State meets. The CVCHS girls are four-time defending DVAL champions led by junior standout Sarah Holt, who excels in sprints, relays and the triple jump.

Boys relay team of Parker Ewing, John Ballard, Brad Lovick and Alex Hernandez, has been strong this year while Danny Condon has been a distance race stalwart.

The DVAL meet is May 8-10 followed by the NCS Area Meet May 18, Meet of Champions May 24-25 and then the CIF State Meet in Fresno May 31-June 1.

SWIMMING AND DIVING Shaun Guest took over the swimming and diving program this year and is hoping his Eagles will be ready to outpoint College Park and Northgate for league honors. The DVAL Meet is at College Park May 10-11 with NCS a week later at Concord Community Pool.

His boys team features returning swimmers Jake Frigard (200 IM, 100 Fly), Jordan Tate (100 and 200 free), Jack Brown (50 free, 100 breast), Matt Vanderstraeten (100 free, 100 breast) and Nick Bazan (100 back) while the girls are led by Sara Abele (200 IM, 100 breast), Bailey Rogers (100 back, 100 free) Making an impact are newcomers Anthony Vines (50 Free, 100 Fly), Ryan Levy (100 Fly, 50 Free, 200 IM), Abbie Kubota (50 free, 100 fly), Alina Weigelt (500 and 200 free) and transfer Taylor Thorson (50 and 100 free, 100 fly).

BASEBALL Casey Coakley returns this year as the head coach for the Eagles after spending four years at Los Medanos College. During Coakley’s two-year

stint in charge of CVHS baseball he led his alma mater to the NCS playoff semi-finals twice in 2007 and 2008. The Eagles have reached NCS every year since the 1990s and that won’t change this season as Clayton Valley is currently ranked eighth in the East Bay, although they are second fiddle to the CV softball team that is fifth.

Last year’s DVAL MVP Ryan Snyder seems intent on repeating with an 8-1 record pitching and .400 batting average as he holds down third base when not pitching. First-team all-leaguers Josh Ballard and Eddie Juarez are also enjoying excellent seasons.

Jesse Medrano, John Ballard and Garrett Nelson also had all-DVAL laurels a year ago and are helping the Eagles again this year. Other key contributors are Graham Pimm, Austin Cannedy, Tanner Wraa, Grant Meylan and Ethan Utler.

Clayton Valley took third in the prestigious 16-team Crown Classic.

They are battling College Park for top spot in DVAL. The new league format finds teams playing a home and home series each week. NCS playoffs start May 21.

Area alumni busy with college sports this spring JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

A trio of women athletes from the area has been balancing college studies with spring sports across the United States.

Photo courtesy University of Chicago

MEGAN TANG University of Chicago tennis

Megan Tang, a sophomore from Clayton Valley High, has been named University Athletic Association Athlete of the Week three times this year for the University of Chicago tennis team.

Most recently, Tang went 3-0 at both No. 1 singles and No. 1 doubles to lead the Maroons to their fifthstraight Midwest Invitational title.

UChicago defeated Gustavus Adolphus College 9-0, Case Western Reserve University 8-1 and Washington University-St. Louis 6-3.

So far this season, Tang owns a 242 record in singles and a 17-4 mark in doubles with a variety of partners. The sophomore has a 14-match win streak in singles and a nine-match win streak in doubles.

Last year as a freshman she was a first-team all-league selection in both singles and doubles as the team made history by reaching the championship match of the NCAA Division III tournament before losing to five-time champion Williams College of Massachusetts. Then last fall Tang took fifth place at the 2012 USTA/ITA Division III National Championships.

At Clayton Valley Tang was firstteam all-Diablo Valley Athletic League as a sophomore but then concentrated

on tennis through Oakhurst Country Club her last two years of high school.

Senior Amanda Moore, another CVHS grad, is wrapping up a four-year career on the Minnesota State University Moorhead Dragons softball team.

Her coach, Kelsey Fehl, says, “Amanda

Photo courtesy University of Minnesota Moorhead

AMANDA MOORE, University of Minnesota Moorhead softball

has been a solid starter for us for four years. She brings a lot of experience and leadership to our young team.”

In over 400 college at bats Moore is hitting over .280 with a school record 20 home runs and approaching 100 RBI. She is the only upper classman in the lineup this season. Fehl adds, “We have always been able to count on her to be solid defensively and give us a boost on offense. She holds the career record for home runs at MSUM and we hope she adds to that this year.”

At Clayton Valley Moore helped the Eagles to the 2009 DVAL championship and North Coast Section quarterfinals as a senior while garnering a host of post-season honors and setting school batting records.

A little closer to home, Erika Cremeen, a 2011 Berean Christian High grad, is in her sophomore season for the George Fox University Bruins in Newberg, Oregon. She earned allDVAL mention her last two years at Berean before matriculating to George Fox, which has one of the Northwest’s most successful small-college sports programs.

The outfielder is the only player on the Bruins without an error this year as she’s appeared in half the team’s 40

Photo courtesy George Fox University

ERIKA CREMEEN George Fox University softball

games to date.

Sports Information departments at George Fox University, University of Chicago and Minnesota State University Moorhead contributed to this story.

April 26, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

Sports

Teamwork leading Warriors back to playoffs

TYLER LEHMAN

SPEAKING

OF

SPORTS

“Let’s Go WARRIORS!!”

When one watches a game at Oracle Arena, the walls seem to shake as the rabid crowd screams for the Warriors, whether it be on a fast break or a vicious slamdunk that came off of a steal.

Warrior fans are one of the greatest fan bases in basketball, sticking with the Oakland basketball team through thick and thin.

This year the Warriors are finally

giving back to their fans with a trip to the playoffs, for the first time since 2007.

The Warriors great success can be attributed to many things this season, but it all starts with head coach Mark Jackson. Jackson was hired two years ago by the Warriors front office, and he’s changed the culture of how the Warriors are playing basketball. In the last two years of Coach Don Nelson’s tenure from 2008 to 2010, the team had much more of an “I” mentality it seemed. The Warriors as a whole would play rather lazy defense, and then at the offensive end settle for jump shots almost the entire game.

Jackson has changed this outlook though, with his schemes the Warriors play defense hard. As a whole they are still a very offensive oriented team, but the extra push and

effort on defense gives them enough to close out games. Jackson has tweaked the mindset of the Warriors team, but credit must be given to the players as well for their great performances over the regular season.

The Warriors bench has been outstanding for them this year, and as for the starters, David Lee and Stephen Curry have been a two-man wrecking crew. It was just last year that the Warriors traded away their leading scorer Monta Ellis to the Milwaukee Bucks, and some questioned the trade. What this trade created was an opportunity for Curry to become the offensive star of the team, and he indeed lived up to that.

Curry has been averaging 23 points per game and 6.9 assists per game this season. He’s doing a great job of scoring, as well as getting the ball to his teammates for

easy, high-percentage, shots. It would be ignorant to say it has just been Curry leading the Warriors playoff push, and although he’s been a key part in it, credit also has to go to All-Star David Lee. Lee averaged 11.2 rebounds per game and is a double-double machine. He’s been working great with center Andrew Bogut, who came over in the Ellis trade, and together they are two big men who pose a very big scoring threat.

The Warriors have also been greatly helped by their depth this year, with solid players like Harrison Barnes and Jarrett Jack coming off the bench. It’s the unity of the Warriors that makes them great, and it’s their teamwork that will carry them deep into the post-season.

Email your comments or questions to Tyler@claytonpioneer.com.

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Sports Shorts SUMMER BASEBALL CAMP AT CLAYTON VALLEY Clayton Valley Charter High School coach Casey Coakley has put together a staff of current CVCHS coaches and players as well as Eagle alumni to provide baseball instruction to youngsters 6-13 years of age at the school. Summer baseball school sessions will be held June 17-20, June 24-27 and July 1-3. Each daily session runs 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Fee is $120 for one week with discounts for multiple weeks. To reserve a baseball school spot or to get more information email casey.coakley@claytonvalley.org.

27TH CLAYTON CLASSIC GOLF COMING UP MAY 20 The 27th annual Clayton Classic Golf Tournament at Oakhurst Country Club on Monday, May 20, still has openings for sponsors and golfers.

Registration begins at 10 a.m. with a noon shotgun start and dinner following the tournament, reports the sponsoring Clayton Business and Community Association.

For more information, visit claytoncbca.org or call (925) 672-2272.

OAKHURST ORCAS SIGNUPS STILL ACCEPTED FOR SWIM SEASON

Head coach Jasmine Millan is still accepting registrations for

DIABLO FC U9-U18 COMPETITIVE SOCCER TEAMS WELCOME PLAYERS

the Oakhurst Country Club recreation summer swim team, which began evening practices this week. For more information email coach Millan at swimcoach@oakhurstcc.com or visit oakhurstorcas.com.

CONCORD CUP XX MARKS MILESTONE MAY 18-19 Concord Cup will celebrate its 20th edition on the May 1819 weekend. The tournament began in 1994 and is co-presented by the Concord AYSO, Diablo FC and MDSA youth soccer organizations. The city of Concord co-sponsors Concord Cup. Over 100 girls and boys teams in the U10 through U19 age groups take part. For more information visit concordcup.com.

CLAYTON VALLEY HALL OF FAME TICKETS AVAILABLE Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame will hold its third induction ceremony on Saturday, May 18, at Centre Concord. This year’s class of honorees comes from the 1960s through ‘90s. Tickets for the dinner and induction at $50 are available through Clayton Valley Charter High School website (claytonvalley.org, click on Web Store) or by sending a check to CVHS Hall of Fame, P.O. Box 842, Clayton, CA 94517.

Diablo FC is now aligned with the San Jose Earthquakes and is encouraging boys and girls in the U9 through U18 age groups to visit the club website to get information on a player evaluation for the 2013-14 competitive season. Players who missed tryouts can register today at diablofc.org and the appropriate age group coach will contact the player about an evaluation.

FOOTBALL, CHEER SIGNUPS OPEN FOR CLAYTON VALLEY FALCONS Registration is open for Clayton Valley Youth football and cheer. Football is open for ages 7-14 while cheer accepts ages 514. The next in-person registration days for the CVAA Falcons are Sunday, April 28, 1-3 p.m. and Wednesday, May 15, 6-8 p.m. at Mountain Mike’s Pizza

by Clayton Bowl. The season starts July 29. For more information and online registration visit CVAAFalcons.com.

CVCHS ACCEPTING COACHING APPLICATIONS FOR 2013-14 SCHOOL YEAR

Athletic Director Greg Fister says that Clayton Valley Charter High School is seeking credentialed teachers who have high school sports coaching experience. The school is specifically accepting varsity boys soccer coaching applications. All applicants can email a resume to Human Resources Director

Amber Lineweaver (amber.lineweaver@claytonvalley.org) with three references and coaching experience or bring that information to the school and leave in athletic director box in the main office.

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Summer will be a busy time for All Out Sports League programs through Clayton Community Gym. Adult volleyball and summer leagues for youth volleyball (8-16 years-old), t-ball (3-5 year-olds) and basketball (416 year-olds) will all be offered in June and July. There are different deadlines for each program. For complete information, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

EARLY BIRD DEADLINE APRIL 30 FOR CLAYTON VALLEY FOOTBALL CAMP North Coast Section champion Clayton Valley Charter High School hosts its Future Champions Full-Pad Youth Football Camp June 24-27 at the Concord school. Camp Director Michael Dominquez and Eagles head coach Tim Murphy explain that the camp has individual and group instruction and team competition with fundamentals and techniques of football taught by the CVCHS staff. A $25 discount is offered for registrations by April 30. To register email coach.dmngz@gmail.com or call (925) 381-5143 for an application.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

April 26, 2013

Sports

Clayton Valley HS Hall of Fame honorees sport glossy credentials FREE ESTIMATES

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Four teams which reached the highest levels of play along with a quintet of athletes who amassed 30 varsity letters are among the inductees in the Class of 2013 for the Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame. This third class for the hall is the first to include athletes from the 1980s and 90s.

BECKY FREDLUND CROSSWHITE CLASS OF 1994 In high school Fredlund was most recognizable for her exploits on the soccer field but she was a four-year letter winner in track and field as well. She earned all-league honors and was the Eagles team most valuable player all four years and also earned scholar athlete laurels four seasons.

As a freshman Fredlund led the Eagles to a Bay Valley Athletic League championship and was name dot the all-North Coast Section tournament team.

During her freshman season Fredlund was second-team allleague before garnering firstteam selection the next three years.

The Eagles track and field team was league champs her freshman, sophomore and senior years as she ran sprints and competed in the triple and long jumps. She capped her CVHS career as 1993-94 girls athlete of the year.

After graduating she was a four-year starter for UC Davis soccer earning all-league and west region honors three times as a defender. She was also a U.S. Futsal national champion for the East Bay magic in 1994.

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CARL MASSEY CLASS OF 1969 Massey was the quintessential three-sport athlete in the late 60s with seven letters covering football, basketball and baseball that earned him men’s athlete of the year in 1969 and also was an honorable mention pick of the all-decade DVAL teams in basketball and baseball.

He was the starting quarterback and punter for CV football his last junior and senior years.

On the basketball court he played on a co-championship team his sophomore season and got all-DVAL honors the next two years as well as team co-

Photo courtesy Clayton Valley High School

CARL MASSEY Class of 1969

MVP as a senior when he was first-team all-league.

As a shortstop he hit .375 as a junior and .393 his senior year for the Eagles and was first team all-league both times.

Massey went on to play four years of college basketball at Humboldt State twice named all-Far West Conference. He left as the school’s second all-time scorer and was named to the school all-decade team for the 1970s. In 2000 he was inducted to the Humboldt State Hall of Fame. He’s been a teach and coach in the El Dorado Union high School district for 37 years with his teams amassing a slew of championships in basketball and golf.

RON OLSON CLASS OF 1970 Olson will be honored posthumously but his records on the pitcher’s mound are likely to last forever.

He set a number of school records in freshman and junior varsity football and basketball but played only a single season (junior year basketball) while concentrating on baseball.

Despite missing most of his junior year due to a broken ankle Olson’s pitching exploits are almost too good to be true.

He was starting pitcher 17 times over three seasons for the Eagles and completed 16 of those games. His career wonlost record was 15-3 with two of the three losses coming after he came back late in the season after his broken ankle.

His soph season Olson had 70 strikeouts with his 6-0 record, 1.12 earned run average

and tied a DVAL record with 17 K’s versus Pleasant hill high. As a junior he was 2-2 with 38 strikeouts in 34 innings.

His senior year saw him give up 21 hits in 62.3 innings in DVAL while striking out 140 in 70 innings overall. His league record was 7-1, including four shutouts and four one-hitters.

He had a 0.00 league ERA and 0.19 overall, still among the top 20 in California prep history. He had 19 strikeouts in a game.

For his career he had 248 strikeouts and a 1.10 ERA. After his senior year he was all-league and all-East Bay first team, FitzPatrick Super sport of the Year and nominated for the California North-South Game.

He was drafted by the San Diego Padres in the 12th round.

Veteran sportswriter Charlie Zeno called him the “best pitcher in the history of Contra Costa County.”

SAM WILLIAMS CLASS OF 1998 Even though he was the CVHS athlete of the year in 1998 Williams has gained lots of notoriety since leaving Clayton Valley, playing nine years with the Oakland Raiders after the linebacker was drafted in the third round from Fresno State.

Williams was a two-year volleyball letterman and all-BVAL first team as a senior. After

Photo Tony Gonzales/Oakland Raiders

SAM WILLIAMS Class of 1998

being named Comeback Player of the Year as a junior Williams burst out as a senior on the football team. He was CVHS Mr. Defense, first-team allleague and all-Bay Area. He was also named to the Contra Costa

and San Francisco Metro all-star teams, Super Prep all-Far West Region and second team allstate by Cal-Hi Sports while leading his Eagles team to the 1997 NCS semi-finals and a 9-3 record, the school’s best in a decade.

His senior year stats included five sacks, five interceptions, 10 blocked passes, two blocked kicks and 138 total tackles, which earned him a scholarship to Fresno State.

He was 2002 team captain for the Bulldogs and seven years later was Raiders special teams captain.

JIM WYLES CLASS OF 1992 Wyles was a well-rounded student athlete at Clayton Valley that led to being a Grand Altair finalist and also under classman student of the year his freshman, sophomore and junior years. His athletic resume shows three years on varsity water polo and four years swimming.

His water polo career at CVHS included most inspirational award a s soph, top defensive player and team MVP his junior year and team MVP and captain as a senior. He earned first-team all-league honors his last two years. He set school records for assists and kick outs his senior season and was allNCS that year after being named first team all-NorCal the previous season.

For the swim team Wyles was a NCS finalist three years in the 100 butterfly capped for an NCS championship as a senior.

He was also second in the 200 individual medley in that year and helped the Eagles to the NCS 400 freestyle relay title. He was a three-time all-America as a junior and five times as senior, when he had the second fastest 100 fly high school time in the USA. He garnered prep scholar athlete awards as well.

He went on to a four-year career at University of Pacific in water polo and swimming. He was part of the first-ever UOP water polo team to reach the NCAA Tournament (1993 top four teams in America). Seventime Big West swimming champion (individual and relays). He won UOP and Big West Scholar Athlete awards too.

See Hall of Fame, pg. 13

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MDSA Phoenix rise to second in tournament Soccer tournament season is underway for AYSO teams and the MDSA Phoenix U10 girls have earned medals in their first two events.

Recently the Phoenix took second to PHMSA Voodoo in the Pleasant Hill SoccerFest after earlier finishing fourth in the AYSO Area 2C/2D Select Tournament. The Phoenix includes, front, Grace Turner; bottom row from left, Kelly Adams, Megan Gherlone, Sydney Sodergren, Ryan McNevin; back row, coach Chris Turner, Caleigh Olgeirson, Lauren Wickham, Bailey Kessinger, Lauren Luedtke and coach Chris McNevin. Not pictured, Lily Wilcox. Locally the tournament season culminates with Concord Cup XX May 18-19.

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April 26, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 13

Forget-Me-Not and Simone are ARF’s Stars charming companion.

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1-year-old Simone is a sweetie who loves to be petted softly. Though shy at first, once she settles in you will find her to be quite a

Hall of Fame, from pg 12

Photo courtesy Clayton Valley High School

1994 BOYS CROSS COUNTRY In the midst of a three-year run as undefeated Mountain Bay Athletic League champions, coach Ron Silveira’s 1994 boys cross country team took second at NCS to qualify for State CIF finals where they were fifth.

Mike Wojciechowski, Geoff Brigham, Justin Carter, Chris Clausen, Luke Leininger, Tony

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NCS and State CIF championships. The undefeated squad of Sarah Frieberg, Kelly Howisey, Louise Indrisie, Deborah and Jennifer Osteen, Marcella Villalobos and Heather Wallace, just a 14-year-old sophomore. At the state meet they won the Division III title with a combined time for the five runners 15 seconds faster than the DI titlists. The previous year and again in 1995 with largely the same team they were second at State after winning league and section. The girls also had a combined 3.953 grade point average. The team was so talented that their winning time in the Mt. SAC Invitational was faster than any other team —- boys or girls!

1977 BASEBALL TEAM

1977 BASEBALL Tom DiMercurio saw his team, nicknamed the Space Eagles, win the school’s first DVAL baseball championship in 16 years and then take the NCS Inland Valley Division title. Not only this team but coach DiMercurio is also being recognized with Hall of Fame induction this year. The team had a 20-7 overall record with offense from Tim Bruno, Gene Wall, Mitch Buich, Sean Lyons, Chris Vick and Dave Maxwell compiling a team batting average of .311 (a school record).

Dennis Quinlan was the ace of the pitching staff at 10-3.

Defensive standouts were Cory Whittaker, Matt Enemark, Bob Jordan, Randy Brown and Buich. They had comeback wins over De La Salle 14-13 and Alhambra 12-10 to win the NCS Inland Valley crown. They lost to Hayward in the Section finals.

Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process.

1998 GIRLS BASKETBALL Coach Al Ossello’s team were not only BVAL champs in 1999-98 but also went on to win the NCS title and advance to the Northern California Championships. Senior Melanie Turner, another Hall of Fame inductee this year, was a leader of this Eagles team. In the league championship game against Northgate she sank a shot from the free throw line —- her free throw line three-quarters of a court from the basket!

Munch and Jim Freeman also won the Division III at the Mt. SAC Invitational as Wojciechowski was the individual winner. John Millar, one of the two coaches being inducted to the Hall this year, assisted Silveira on both the boys and girls teams that year.

1994 GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY Few CVHS teams have ever achieved the heights of this group coached by Silveira. All they did was win the MBAL,

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com SF Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle presents

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Awards Gala & Dance Party

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Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. MAY 1 FOR THE MAY 10

IN CLAYTON Apr. 27 Clayton Cleans Up Honor Earth Day with a town spring cleaning. Help pick up trash, pull weeds and share in community spirit. Meet at City Hall at 9 a.m., rain or shine. T-shirt, gloves and garbage bags provided.

Barbecue at 11:30 a.m. Sponsored by the Clayton Pioneer and the city of Clayton with generous donations from Allied Waste, Travis Credit Union and many local merchants. 672-0500.

May 4, 5 Art and Wine Festival Arts, crafts, food, music, wine. Sat. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Main Street, Clayton. claytoncbca.org. 672-2272.

ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO

Ensemble Theatre, 1345 Locust St., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. diabloactors.com.

the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $23-$33. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Apr. 27 Come Together: The Beatles Concert Experience Live musical performance recreating the look, sound and history of The Beatles. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40-$45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 17 – June 22 “Sweet Charity” Meet Charity Hope Valentine, the girl who wants to be loved so much that she sings, dances, laughs and cries her way through romances. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $42-$57. centerrep.org. 943-7469.

Apr. 27 Devil Mountain Double Century Bike Ride Starts and ends in San Ramon, traveling through Mount Diablo and Morgan Territory Road. quackcyclists.com.

May 11 Concerts in the Grove 6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free.

Apr. 28 Chamber Music SF Corey Cerovsek Trio performs. 2:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Tickets on sale Apr. 28 at 12 a.m. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 11 Plant Sale Annual plant sale by Clayton Valley Garden Club. 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Endeavor Hall parking lot, 6008 Center St., Clayton. claytonvalleygardenclub.org.

Apr. 28 Ole Blue Eyes Swinging tribute to Frank Sinatra starring Jonathan Poretz. 3 p.m.

Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40$45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 11, 18 Farmers’ Market 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturdays. Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown Clayton. pcfma.com/clayton.

Apr. 29, June 24, July 29, Aug. 26 Mini Mondays Children aged 2-5 discover the natural world around them.

Children must be accompanied by adult. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Lindsay Wildlife Museum, 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. $15. wildlife-museum.org. 935-1978.

May 18, 19 Gardens Tour Clayton Historical Society’s annual gardens tour. Five homes. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Self-guided tour starts at Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St., Clayton. Tickets $25; $30 day of. claytonhistory.org.

May 20 Golf Tournament Clayton Classic. 27th Annual Clayton Business and Community Association tournament. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. unkted@aol.com or 672-2272.

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

ON THE MOUNTAIN Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Events Calendar for more information.

Apr. 28 Butterflies and Wildflowers Join two local naturalists in the hunt for butterflies and learn what plants attract them. 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Meet at end of Regency Drive, Clayton.

Apr. 28 Round the Mountain Hike Circle the park’s namesake peak, Mount Diablo. 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Meet at Juniper Camp trailhead.

May 4, 11 Summit Wildflower Walk Walk on Mary Bowerman trail. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Meet at Lower Summit parking lot.

May 5 Butterflies and Wildflowers Join two local naturalists in the hunt for butterflies and learn what plants attract them. 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center.

May 5 Flowers and Rocks Hear about the geology of the mountain and how it influences the flowers. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Meet at parking area at Juniper Campground on Summit Road.

May 8, 15 Birds and Wildflowers Pleasant walk with little elevation in Mitchell Canyon area. 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Trailhead.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Thru May 12 “Pilgrims Musa and Sheri in the New World” Romantic comedy exploring the differences between American and Middle Eastern cultural values and expectations. Parental advisory. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$35. centerrep.org. 943-7469.

Apr. 26 – May 11 “Grace and Glorie” A story of pain and wisdom, heartbreak and comfort, comedy and acceptance set in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Diablo Actors’

calendar@claytonpioneer.com

May 2 - 26 “Salome” Butterfield 8 Theatre Company presents this one-act play telling the Biblical story of Salome. Cue Productions Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. $10-$20. b8company.com.

May 2 – 5 “Robin Hood” Join Robin Hood’s band of Merry Men as they try to outwit Prince John. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 3 Contra Costa Wind Symphony Tales and Legends: Baseball, Brubeck and Brazzissimo. 8 p.m.

Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 3, 4 Inside the Dancer’s Studio Diablo Ballet performance. Shadelands Art Center, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. $20-$38. diabloballet.org.

May 4, 5 California Symphony Trevino and the Fantastique! Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $65. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 9 Pacific Chamber Symphony Haydn and Beethoven. 10 a.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. Free. elcampaniltheatre.com.

May 9 Winds Across the Bay Youth Wind Ensemble’s 20th anniversary of encouraging the love and support of instrumental music. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12. lesherartscenter.org.

943-7469.

May 9 – 12 Company C Contemporary Ballet Spring 2013 program. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 11 Chamber Music SF Featuring pianist Garrick Ohisson. 2:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Tickets on sale May 11 at 12 a.m. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 11 Delta Moon Student Film Festival Dedicated exclusively to showcasing the top films produced by high school students in North America. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $6.50-$9. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 12 Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra French Connection. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469.

May 17, 18 “Alice in Wonderland” Presented by Contra Costa Ballet Foundation. Lesher Center for

May 19 Diablo Symphony Orchestra Gypsy Magic. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

CHURCHES & RELIGION May 3 Baha’i, interaction, fellowship and discussion. Topic: Science and Religion – Disagree or in Harmony. Speaker: 7:30 p.m. Free. For directions, call 672-6686.

FUNDRAISERS Apr. 28 Silent Auction Help fund Clayton Community Church’s trip with World Vision to Hamaundu, Zambia to help those in need. 6:30 p.m. Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. 673-9060.

May 4 Tapestry Spring concert. 7 p.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Free will donation accepted in support of Northern California and Northern Nevada chapter of Alzheimer’s Association. tapestryringersandsingers.org.

May 14 Concord High Jazz Ensemble Concert Proceeds go to the Concord High School Instrumental Music Program and the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

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

Tuesdays thru May 14 Patty Cakes Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver.

11 a.m.

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

Call in advance.

Thursdays thru May 16 Picture Book Time Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. 11 a.m.

May 6 Elder Law 1 p.m. Registration required.

May 13 Special Needs Trusts Workshop focusing on transition issues for special needs individuals, families and caregivers. Question and answer period. 6:30 p.m.

Registration requested.

The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. 646-5455.

May 6 Puppet Show Children ages 5 – 11. 7 p.m.

SCHOOLS Apr. 27 Comcast Cares Campus Clean Up CVCHS. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.,1101 Alberta Way, Concord.

Registration required: claytonvalley.org.

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

2nd and 4th Tuesdays, Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at claytonpioneer.com. Click on ‘Events’

April 26, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 15

Performing Arts

‘Alice’ again dances into Wonderland

Photo courtesy Contra Costa Ballet

Contra Costa Ballet will bring the classic story of “Alice in Wonderland” to the Lesher stage May 17 and 18. The cast includes dancers from the CC Ballet Company and professional guest artists.

Contra Costa Ballet will again present its popular version of “Alice in Wonderland,” directed by Robert Dekkers.

This imaginative collaboration features an original score by

critically acclaimed composer Daniel Berkman, costumes by Marlowe Bassett and Jan Berletti, lighting by David Robertson, and sets by Jane George.

Dekkers’ version explores a variety of Lewis Carroll’s original thematic elements, including Alice’s search for her own identity. This self-searching is what brings her to Wonderland in the

first place and what incites questions such as “Who are you?” from the eclectic mix of anthropomorphic characters she meets there.

Carroll was also an esteemed mathematician, and so the original story is filled with hidden references to mathematical concepts. Dekkers and Berkman explore these mathematical themes in a variety of ways as they built the choreography and new score for the play.

Victorian-inspired costumes

by Bassett, including her unique version of “steampunk” fashion for the Wonderland scenes, bring the diverse characters of this production to life. The production features the dancers of Contra Costa Ballet as well as professional guest artists Jackie McConnell, Tian Tan and Robert Dekkers.

Performances are Friday and Saturday, May 17 and 18 at the Hofmann Theatre at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek.

For more information and tickets, visit www.lesherartscenter.org or visit 925-943-SHOW (7469).

Comedy show to raise funds for Clayton Theatre Company Showtime comedian Monique Marvez, and local talent, Kyle Fitzgerald will appear June 14 and 15 at Endeavor Hall in Clayton to raise money for the fledgling Clayton Theatre Company’s first production this fall.

Marvez is a Latina writer and performer with a signature brand of humor captured in her very funny Showtime Special “Not Skinny; Not Blonde,” which debuted March 2013. She is also currently featured in “Snoop Dogg’s Bad Girls of Comedy” also on Showtime, and is developing a television series based on her life, among other projects.

Kyle Fitzgerald graduated from Clayton Valley High School with plans for a career in the NFL. But, instead of tackling large sweaty men, Kyle opted for a career in radio sales which led to Marvez and a feature role as an Internet sports commentator and stand up

MONIQUE MARVEZ

comic on “The Monique and The Man Show.”

Clayton Theatre Company, helmed by Clayton performer and teacher Roxanne Pardi and local choreographer La Tanya Watt, will open with a musical melodrama this fall.

For more information on Clayton Theatre Company visit the website at claytontheatrecompany.com or call (925) 222-9106.

Scandalous ‘Salome’ to be performed in Concord Next month, Butterfield 8 Theatre Company takes on Oscar Wilde and his rarely performed tragedy “Salome” – a scandalous production that was banned in Wilde’s native Britain for nearly 40 years.

Wilde’s 1891 one-act play, written in French and later translated by Wilde into English, might not be as famous as “The Importance of Being Earnest,” but it just might be more influential – and it’s certainly more scandalous. Rarely performed today, the play – from the Biblical legend which Wilde

spun into this tale of seduction and betrayal – still managed to inspire several movie adaptations and an opera by Richard Strauss.

In the story, Herod Antipas, who is obsessed with his stepdaughter Salome, foolishly promises her anything, if only she will dance for him and satisfy his unsuitable prurient interests. Salome, in turn, struggles with her own obsession with the imprisoned holy man, Jokanaan (John the Baptist).

The production is directed by company Artistic Director

John Butterfield. In this unique production, he says that Butterfield 8 will once again stretch the boundaries of their performance space by incorporating mask work and projected images.

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Center REP’s ‘Pilgrims’ is a sweet love story Should you take a chance on love? Do you make a safe, sensible match, or take a risk on an exciting someone who might – just might – be the one Great Romance of your life? That’s the theme of Center REP’s Off Center series finale, “Pilgrims Musa and Sheri in the New World.”

Written by Yussef El Guindi and directed by Michael Butler, this 2012 Steinberg Award Winner for New Play runs from April 27 – May 12 at the Lesher Center for the Arts at 1601 Civic Drive in Walnut Creek.

The play revolves around Musa, an Egyptian immigrant, and Sheri, a very quirky

Caucasian waitress, who must negotiate the twists and turns of not only love, but cultural expectations in their “new world.”

The play has been heralded in the press as “…a comic charmer…” and “…a Romeo and Juliet story – an Annie Hall story, a ‘West Side Story’ story, and a humane reminder that most of us are pilgrims of one kind or another in this big, complicated, rewarding land we share.”

HEROD ANTIPAS, TETRARCH OF JUDAEA and his wife Herodias ignore the chorus of Jews and Nazarenes (from left: Kathleen MacKay, Jake Breckinridge, Julian Christopher Geritz, Ali Arman, Clayton resident Nathalie Archangel, and Jean Butterfield) in Butterfield 8 Theatre Company’s production of Oscar Wilde’s Salome, previewing May 2 and running through May 26 at Cue Productions Live in Concord.

‘Robin Hood’ to swoop in for Fantasy Forum’s finale

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 925-943-SHOW or visit www.centerrep.org.

Photo courtesy CenterREP

CARL LUMBLY, DORIAN LOCKETT, Lena Hart, Rebecca Schweitzer, Gabriel Marin appear in “Pilgrims Musa and Sheri in the New World” at the Lesher Center April 27-May 12.

Walnut Creek-based Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble will present the final show in it’s 40th season, the classic tale “Robin Hood” May 2 – 5 in Walnut Creek.

This jaunty tale of the good robber’s efforts to outwit Prince John and the Sheriff – with the help of his merry men – is a heart-warming original family friendly musical that encourages audience participation from all ages.

For more than 30 years Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble is a nationally acclaimed non-profit organization of men and women who strive to entertain, educate and enrich families, and endeavor to present the highest form of family entertainment. The show feature original scripts, professional actors and affordable pricing. Many of Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble’s young audience members are able to sit right on the stage and interact directly with the performers.

For tickets and show times, call 925-943-SHOW(7469), visit www.leshercenter.org, or stop by the Lesher Center for the Arts Ticket Office, 1601 Civic Drive Walnut Creek or the Barnes & Noble ticket office at the Walnut Creek store.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

We’re here for you.

Need a dash of color?

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GARDEN GIRL Those of you who garden in the shade know how hard it is to incorporate brilliant color to the area. You probably haven’t met Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum; a punchy colored perennial that is Clayton Valley hardy, and ready to thrill you with months of color.

Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum is a garden gem. Its blazing orange flowers will delight growers from April through June.

Medium-green oaks shaped leaves have a fuzzy pile on each.

The leaves creating a fern-like mound that will be 14-18 inches wide. This mound holds sturdy stems that stand 18-24 inches tall and support Mrs. Bradshaw’s many orange flowers. Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum makes the perfect addition to garden and borders throughout our Clayton

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Valley landscapes. Although shade loving Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum will beds tolerate morning sun and afternoon shade with regular water.

This perennial is simple to grow, needing only a good start to make it happy. When installing Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum combine high nitrogen soil conditioner with the native soil at a 50-50 ratio. This will insure a good start of the plant.

Hand-water the first week after planning to thoroughly re-wet the new soil. If snail and slugs are a problem in your garden, put a pellet or two of bait beneath Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum leaves as a preventative.

Use the Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum in the garden as a companion to Brunnera macrophylla. The forget-me-not blue flowers will play well with the brilliant orange flower of this Geum. If you have a carpet of Ajuga, install some Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum to the area.

Lotus is excellent small-scale groundcover that would accessorize Mrs. Bradshaw’s Geum.

The Lotus is commonly called Parrots Beak. The flowers resemble small birds of paradise, and are found in the colors of orange, red and yellow.

If orange isn’t your color,

Geum comes in other bold shades. Blazing Sunset has a stunning double scarlet flower. The Blazing Sunset would work well combined with white flowering azalea shrubs and variegated Hosta. Borissii Geum has golden-orange flowers that are the shades of butter. Lady Stratheden Geum has double canary yellow flowers that make a nice companion with perennials that flower lavender or blue.

Geum plants are herbaceous perennials. They begin to grow during the earliest days of spring, bloom mid-spring through early summer and go to rest in the autumn. Geum plants

will set seed after they flower.

The following spring it is a welcome sight to see if any other Geum has re-seeded in the garden bed.

Geum looks better the longer it has been planted in your garden. The first year, you’ll like them, by the second year you’ll love them.

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Contact her with questions or comments at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

Spark up your spring with simple accessories

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staple that fits you well. Here are some suggestions: Rethink your white shirt – While your classic buttondown is always a go-to piece, this season’s boxy cuts are something new to try. Wear them with black for a graphic contrast.

Embrace summer black – No longer taboo, black works with everything in your wardrobe.

Know less is more – A sleek LBD and sculptural gold cuff is all you need for the most modern after-dark look.

Add interest with color – Give a monochrome look an instant lift with a vibrant accessory. A cherry red bag or lemon yellow shoes work with all the basics.

Amp up your denim look – Try a sporty leather tee, embellished bomber jacket or printed heels (printed flats work, too).

Take a risk with red lip color – Spring is no longer the season of just pale lips.

Incorporate lace – Used as an accent or the main attrac-

tion, lace isn’t just for the very young, especially in black or when paired with leather.

Dare to go sheer – The sheer blouse was the undisputed star of the designer shows.

Layer it over a silk and lace camisole or choose a more demure style with sheer sleeves.

Have an arm party – Pile

JUDITH MARSHALL

FASHION OVER 50 season’s color – Each year Pantone declares a color of the season and this year’s color is a lush emerald green. To avoid looking like you just marched in the St. Patrick’s Day parade, tone it down by pairing one piece with taupe, khaki or grey.

Any of these options will give you an easy spring wardrobe fix.

Live long and pester! on bracelets, watches, bangles and cuffs. It’s one way of making a statement without saying a word.

Select a piece in this

Judith Marshall is the author of “Husbands May Come and Go but Friends are Forever.” Send comments to Judith.Marshall@att.net.

April 26, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 17

Students artists wow with their work at CVCHS Art Expo

ROBBIE PARKER

CVCHS REPORTER As parents and students enjoyed a catered dinner at the Clayton Valley Charter High School Art Expo and Open

JESSIE GAMM

school has ever seen.

Photos, paintings, sculptures of metal and even paper – all created by talented teens –encompassed the space on Thursday, April 11. The area was crowded with display hangers, colorful canvases, and tables packed with unique and phenomenal works of art. The visual art was accompanied by the smooth tunes of other teen artists, the Clayton Valley Jazz Band.

Art is one of the most powerful forms of self-expression.

Whether it is photography, painting, drawing, sculpting or even directing, anyone can be

KIANA MASON

House, they may or may not have been aware that beyond the multi-use room doors were some of the most exciting art projects and installations the

REBECCA REEDER

involved in the arts. For the teenager, art is especially influential and potent. It grants the originality and inspiration that many young students desire.

With all of that raw creativity and youthful talent under one roof, the amount of success of the annual CVCHS Art Expo is not surprising.

After many of the attendees had the opportunity to browse the exhibits, Executive Director Dave Lindsey took the microphone in hand and praised the excellence of the student art. “It looks like these students are professionals already,” Lindsey said, prior to announcing the names of the winners.

The art, judged in five categories, consisted of a wide array of unique media. Alaina Campbell took home first in video with her entry “Iridescent.” Mason Biddle earned first place with “Panda Samurai” in graphic arts. “Lady in Beads” landed Rebecca Reeder first in the mixed media category. The winning sculpture, dubbed “Untitled,” was crafted by the trio of Daniel Jenson, Jason Lamph and Riley Tulis.

Eleni Berg’s “Warmth” rose to the top as best drawing and Jessie Gamm painted her way to first with “Colors of the Wind.”

Kianna Mason’s photo “For the Love of Color” received top prize in photography.

Throughout the event, vol-

Photos by Jason Rogers

The impressive and unique “Dita” by Angie Escobedo attracts onlookers at the CVCHS Art Expo with its dark lines and pastel colors. unteers from the CVCHS Arts Academy sold raffle tickets to raise money for the arts department. Katie Nolan, the art teacher at CVCHS, and Elizabeth Abbot, the coordinator of the Clayton Arts Academy at the school, offered many fabulous prizes as part of

the fundraiser.

“We are trying to buy new grids so that we can have a better looking show next year,” Ms. Nolan explained when asked where the funds would be directed. At the end of the event, she also remarked that what she wanted viewers to

absorb from the show was “to remember the caliber of talent we have here at the school.”

Robbie Parker is a freshman at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com

Heading to high school can be harrowing JENNIFER HOEHN PHMS REPORTER As you might expect, the eighth graders at Pine Hollow Middle School are all talking about moving up a grade. For many students, going into high school can be a very scary experience. You once again become the youngest students and that can be difficult.

Personally, I am not as intimidated by high school. I enjoy new experiences and accept challenges. My only problem is that I am going to Northgate.

Don’t get me wrong, Northgate is a great school, and the students are given a great education. However, I would say that

99 percent of the eighth graders currently at Pine Hollow are going to attend Clayton Valley Charter High School. I, on the other hand, am the 1 percent that is not.

So despite not having a single friend with me, I am looking forward to high school. New annoying people, new annoying classes; it will be great. Well, one more year closer to freedom, right?

My gal pal Grace Gius also had a nice philosophy regarding the upcoming school year. She said, “I think being at the bottom of the ‘food chain’ will be an intimidating experience, but I am excited to move up academically.” Much like Grace, many of the eighth graders feel the change will be nerve-wracking, but they are enthusiastic nonetheless.

I expect much more homework and studying will come my way. I will just have to push

myself harder and accept the fact that I will be stressed at times. With this in mind, I hope to do well over the next four years.

I also expect to be treated differently, though I’m not sure in what way. I am hoping that there will be less bullying since the high school students are older, so theoretically should be more mature. However, everyone pathologically hates the freshman from what I hear. If it’s anything like middle school, I expect there will be some teasing or making fun of for the people my age. Again, the people in high school have had time to mature and I believe that will show in the overall attitude of the school.

I asked Marinela Villanueva, a sophomore at Northgate, about her experiences in high school and if she had any advice for the incoming freshman.

“One thing I didn’t expect was

to have lots of students in other grades in my class. Like, last year, I had juniors and seniors in my classes. Don’t be intimidated. If you have classes with them, make friends with them.

The workload is the same for me. In English, there are a lot

more essays, but that’s pretty much it. Just have fun.”

Hopefully, high school will be full of fun experiences and won’t be too stressful. All in all, I am looking forward to this new chapter in my life. Good luck to all of the eighth graders!

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Jennifer Hoehn is in the eighth grade at Pine Hollow Middle School.

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It’s fine as a complement to dips and for lending crunch to tuna salad, but celery is really a powerhouse veggie that deserves to be on a stage of its own.

Originally a wild European marsh plant called smallage, celery was used for centuries as a medicinal plant to “purify the blood.” There’s some truth to that because the potassium and sodium in celery is an effective diuretic. It’s an important ingredient in Chinese herbal medicine. King Tut was buried with a wild celery garland and winners of athletic events in ancient Greece were given a bunch of celery, much like flowers are given today.

Celery was introduced to the U.S. by Dutch farmers outside

Kalamazoo, Michigan in the mid-1800s. Today, about two billion pounds are grown every year, most of it here in California with Michigan ranking only fourth in production. If you’re ever in Portage, MI, stop by the Celery Flats Interpretive Center to see how one small vegetable created an entire community of people.

One cup yields 40 percent of your daily requirement for vitamin K and some scientists claim that at 10 calories per stalk, celery requires more calories to digest, making it a perfect “diet” food.

The ancient Greeks and Romans used celery to flavor food, and even today it’s a staple in an aromatic trio with onions and carrots in the French mire-

poix and Italian sofrito as a flavor foundation for sauces, stews, soups and stocks. You’ll often see it garnishing a Bloody Mary, a tomato juice-based cocktail (it’s said that it was first used to stir the drink when a swizzle stick wasn’t available), or served with blue cheese dressing to calm the fire of

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Buffalo wings.

When you were a kid maybe you got to eat “ants on a log” (peanut butter filled celery dotted with raisins). It was one of the eight original vegetables in a V-8 juice. In the late 1800s, it saved the skin of a creative New York City chef when he ran out

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Page 18

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

April 26, 2013

Green isn’t just a color in home design DESIGN & DÉCOR

From a design perspective, there are many things you can do to incorporate environmentally friendly products into your designs. From recycled hardwood floors to repurposing that old chest of drawers, here’s a few ideas to bring the “Green” lifestyle into your home.

April is the perfect month to celebrate all things “Green.”

With Earth Day taking place this past Monday and today being Arbor Day, if you plant a tree or organize a plan for your family to recycle more, you’re doing small, but important deeds to keep our environment thriving.

• If you’re thinking about painting the exterior of your home or an interior space, consider choosing a Low or No VOC paint. Fewer toxins in the atmosphere is a good thing, at any level. “Green” paints are a big deal for paint manufacturer’s these days as everyone wants to be a little more environmentally

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of lettuce: he tossed chopped apple, celery and walnuts with mayonnaise and called it “Waldorf Salad.”

Here’s a healthy spring soup you can enjoy with all the beautiful veggies and herbs hitting the produce stands these days: BROCCOLI AND CELERY SOUP Serves 6 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 4 stalks celery, diced 2 to 4 garlic cloves, to taste, minced

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spaces. Or the dining table with the golden oak finish (that you can’t stand), consider refinishing it to the color that works best with the rest of your dining room décor. And if you don’t have a chair hanging around, or a table that needs a second life, head over to the Alameda Antique Faire to find your own treasures. For more information, visit www.alamedapointantiquesfaire.com/index.php

FURNITURE CAN BE STYLISH, FUNCTIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTALLY friendly all at the same time. When designing your home, keep a clear vision of your design aesthetic, buy locally, and consider “Green” products when you have a choice.

taking the extra step to research the products you are using to remodel your home is an easy one.

I’ve talked about repurposing furniture in a few of my arti-

Celery, from page 17

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friendly. So take an extra step when choosing your paint base and ask for the Low or No VOC product.

• Using reclaimed lumber for floors, case goods, or decorative arts and crafts is a great way to “upcycle.”

What is upcycle? Upcycling is taking something that you would otherwise throw out and finding a way to make it into something else. If you’re in the market for new hardwood floors, or just need lumber to create something new, don’t cut down a tree; consider the reclaimed hardwoods instead.

• Purchasing tile or carpet that has recycled content is a great way to show your spirit for eco-friendly living.

There are many beautiful tile designs that use bits of glass or stone or ceramic tiles that have been ground down, just like cement. And I love the fact that some carpet lines actually use plastic soda bottles to cut pile carpet! Again,

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2 lbs. broccoli crowns, chopped 6 oz. russet potatoes, peeled and diced 2 qts. water or vegetable stock Bouquet garni (bay leaf, a Parmesan rind, thyme and parsley sprigs) 1 cup spinach leaves (tightly packed) Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh herbs (parsley, tarragon, chives), for garnish Optional garnishes (olive oil

If you’re remodeling any living space within your home, before hauling demolished materials to the dumps, consider recycling. For more information, visit www.calrecycle.ca.gov/RCP/Co nstruction.asp.

Swapping out your existing light bulbs for the energy efficient Dairy Queen-looking swirl

cles, but this month, it’s most important. The chair your grandmother gave you that’s sitting in your garage? Consider having it reupholstered so it can be used in one of your living

Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com

drizzle, plain yogurt swirl, freshly grated Parmesan cheese) Heat a large, heavy soup pot over medium heat and add oil then the onion and celery.

Cook, stirring, until tender without browning, about 5 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Add the broccoli, potatoes, water or stock and bouquet garni and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat, cover and simmer 30 minutes. Remove the bouquet garni. Stir in the spinach and let sit for a minute off the heat.

Using a hand blender, or in

batches in a regular blender, purée the soup. Return to the pot and heat through, stirring.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Serve, topping each bowl with a sprinkle of chopped herbs and other garnishes of your choice.

Recipe from Martha Rose Shulman, New York Times.

Linda Wyner, a local attorney and foodie, owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton.

Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@pansonfire.com