AUG 05 Clayton Pioneer 2005 by Pioneer Publishers

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August 5, 2005

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Police Chief Peterson gets a sweet sendoff JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Over 100 friends, family and colleagues came to Oakhurst Country Club last Friday evening to toast him and to roast him. They came to say goodbye to their beloved police chief who retires after seven years as leader and mentor of the Clayton Police force and a career in law enforcement that spans some 35 years. The man known for his wry and dry sense of humor and his engaging smile, Pete Peterson, who shies away from the limelight, was the man of the hour. Peterson’s farewell dinner drew a diverse crowd of well wishers from city staff, police officer’s associations and dignitaries to former colleagues from the Oakland Police Department and police chiefs from nearby cities. Peterson’s sisters from Oregon and Vancouver flew in for the special occasion. Peterson was recognized for his many contributions to law enforcement and especially for helping mold the Clayton Police Department which now boasts a healthy balance of youthful energy and experience. The Chief was also praised for his community policing program which has gained national recognition. However, along with the praise came the zingers, one liners and a roasting that drew roars of laughter from guests and made the shy and low-keyed chief blush; like his transition from fighting crime and corruption on the streets of Oakland to one of his first assignments in Clayton –

See Peterson, page A3

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

CHIEF PETERSON, known far and wide for his sweet tooth is honored with a plate of Krispy Kreme donuts for dessert at his retirement dinner.

Clayton woman named League president TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

KARRIE CONNORS

What’s inside SECTION A Around Town . . . . . . . . . .A2 Mayor’s Corner . . . . . . . . . .A4 Directory of Advertisers . .A5 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . .A5 Letters to the Editor . . . . .A6 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .A7 Crossword Puzzle . . . . . . .A7 Music Notes . . . . . . . . . . . .A8 Sharing History . . . . . . . . .A9 Your Health . . . . . . . . . . .A10 Just My Opinion . . . . . . . .A10 Shape Up . . . . . . . . . . . . .A11 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . .A12 Church News . . . . . . . . . .A13 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . .A14 Food For Thought . . . . . .A15 SECTION B Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . . . .B1 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B2 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B5 Community Calendar . . . . .B6 Dining Around . . . . . . . . . .B7

Clayton’s Karrie Connors was recently named president of the Diablo Valley Chapter of the League of Women Voters. A lifelong political and social activist, Connors was drawn to membership in the League two years ago because they “advocate for issues that I’m passionate about, like affordable housing and homelessness.” “I went to one meeting and I was hooked,” said Connors. She

was impressed with the issues covered by the non-partisan organization and the overall quality of the information presented. The primary function of the LWV, explains Connors is education and advocacy. “They present both sides of an issue in a very balanced manner,” she said. “Then they get involved in advocacy, adjudicating issues that are important to the public.” Currently, the League is working with Contra Costa cities to support affordable housing measures and to

address some of the issues around homelessness. “You’d be surprised at how many homeless people there are in Contra Costa County, particularly in East County,” said Connors. In addition to her involvement in homelessness issues through the League, she also sits on the advisory board of the Homeless Summit, which, working through the Interfaith Council of Contra Costa County, administers a program to provide temporary shelter for homeless families and seniors

during the winter months. She also volunteers with Habitat for Humanity. In 2000, Connors took a three-year sabbatical from work to reevaluate her personal and professional goals. She spent the time traveling and ramping up her volunteer and community service work, serving with Caring Hands, which provides community outreach to senior citizens, and as the chair of the St. Bonaventure’s Social Justice Committee. She also increased her work with organizations

addressing housing and homelessness. But this period was not all work and no play for this trim dynamo who spent one winter skiing in Switzerland and has traveled extensively throughout Europe. Connors is also an avid snowboarder and golfer. “Keeps me busy and out of trouble,” she says with a chuckle. In 2004, with her money running low and a brand new

See Connors, page A4

Affordable housing condo sets off media buzz TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Twice in as many months Clayton has hit the network news stations big time. First, the bocce ball issue provided some light fare for Bay Area news programs as well as a tongue in cheek “Trouble-T. It rhymes with B and that stands for Bocce” article in the San Francisco Chronicle. And just last week, a flyer sent out by the City of Clayton offering a 1,075 square foot, three bedroom, two bath home in Clayton for as low as $87,500 set off a media buzz that had city officials scrambling to answer over 600 calls in one day, jammed five phone lines in the city offices and landed Assistant to the City Manager

Laura Hoffmeister on KTVUTV and KCBS radio. The condo is the first of three affordable housing units required of Lemke Development as a condition of their 24 home Diablo Pointe subdivision on Seminary Hill. Lemke purchased the Marsh Creek Park Villa condo for about $500,000 and will sell it at a bargain price to a qualified low to moderate-income buyer in compliance with the city’s affordable housing mandate. The affordable housing law is not new. California enacted its Housing Element Law in 1969 and cities have been challenged to meet their affordable housing quotas ever since. So, why now

See Housing, page A4

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

MARGIE SHAFER OF KCBS RADIO QUIZZES LAURA HOFFMEISTER on the affordable housing unit while the KTVU-TV news truck waits in the background.

Page A2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

August 5, 2005

Around Town Jeff Barbano to wed Mary Giacomini next month in San Francisco

Meghan Pardi makes Dean’s List Meghan Pardi just completed her sophomore year at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles where her 3.62 grade point average landed her on the Dean’s List for the Spring 2005 semester. She is majoring in sociology. It was a busy year for the Clayton woman. She also earned her second letter on the women’s water polo team. The team placed fifth in the NCAA National Collegiate Women’s Water Polo Championship in Ann Arbor, Michigan this past spring. Meghan achieved a second National Scholar Athlete Award and will again serve on the LMU student Athletic commission.

MEGHAN PARDI

Giulia Padoan arrives late Giulia Arianna Padoan was determined to wait for Grandma and Grandpa to arrive before making her grand entrance. Despite being a week overdue, Giulia waited out her mom’s two “Prego” pizzas and many walks on the Clayton trails, until grandparents arrived from Italy. Grandma and Grandpa arrived on Wednesday, July 20 and at exactly this minute, mom’s labor contractions started. Giulia arrived four hours later. Good timing. Giulia weighed 8 lbs. 10 oz. and she was 20” tall. She joins her parents Sebastiano and Nicole

Quincy joins Miller family Quincy Autumn Miller recently made her presence known to the Miller family of Clayton. Parents Jennifer and Edward and grandmother Donna Morris welcomed baby Quincy on June 28. She weighed in at 10 lbs, 5 oz and she was 21 and onequarter inches long. Quincy joins her two older sisters, Celeste, age 10 and Jasmine, age 6.

Meghan is the daughter of Roxanne and Herc Pardi of Clayton.

Bauers take the Pioneer on their Congo mission

Nick and Cathy Paris celebrate new grandson

JEFF BARBANO AND MARY GIACOMINI

Jeff Barbano and Mary Giacomini will share wedding vows on September 10 at St. Peter and Paul Church in San Francisco followed by a reception at Marines Memorial Club. Jeff is a 1993 graduate of Clayton Valley High School. Mary graduated Fortuna High School in Loleta, California in 1995 and

Santa Clara University in 1999. The couple met while working in the sales and marketing department of the Columbus Salame Company in South San Francisco. They were engaged last summer. The groom’s parents are Lea and Mark Barbano of Clayton and the bride’s parents are Walt and Becky Giacomini of Loleta.

Padoan and brother Stefano, 3 ½ and sister Sofia, 2 in their Julpun Loop home in Clayton.

Diana Bauer and her husband Ray recently traveled to the Congo for a short-term mission and spent time at a hospital in Kolwezi where Ray and Dr. Peniel Kasongo performed 59 operations. The Bauers took time form their busy schedule to pose with a copy of the Clayton Pioneer. From left. Dr. Jim Shaw, Dr. Kasongo, Diana and Ray Bauer.

Kirkwood, Concord - 3 bedrooms, 2 bath home with vaulted ceilings, wood Laminated floors and bookshelves in the family room and fresh paint inside. Outside enjoy the landscaped yards and swimming pool, RV parking and more.

Chapel Hills, Concord - This 3 Bedroom, 2 baths home is light bright and airy. You will find a stain glass entry door, family room with cathedral ceiling, living room with marble fireplace, updated baths and more.

Concord, Houses or Horses - This secluded rustic Spanish style home on a palatial 1.59 acre lot. This 2 bedroom, 1 bath home with huge loft that spans the upper floor, basement w/2 bedrooms, 2 baths and kitchen set up. You will also find a guest studio/apt., zoned for 3 horses and fruit trees on this property. Just 10 minutes from Bart. $1,300,000

Stranahan, Clayton - Newer single-family home located near downtown, walking trails and schools. This 3 bedroom 2-½ baths home has laminate flooring, ceiling fans in all the bedrooms, and wood blinds throughout. Beautiful landscaped yards.

$629,980

$632,980

$679,980

Nick and Cathy Paris have a new grandson. Enrique Viton was born in Seattle on July 9. He is the first child for parents Nichol Paris and Fernando Viton. Nicol is a 1993 graduate of CVHS and now works at Microsoft along with Fernando. Enrique was 19 ¼ inches long and weighed 7 lbs., 8 ozs.

Clayton/Concord Border - Seeing is believing this home sits on .41-acre flat lot with 2 bedrooms and 2 remodeled baths. Inside you will find newer carpeting, large kitchen, indoor laundry and a wood burning stove. $620,000

Jeffry Ranch, Clayton - Updated Rancher with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths with RV parking and beautiful large yard. Inside you will find newer Pergo flooring, custom paint, ceramic tile throughout, ceiling fans, custom built ins and more.

$829,980

Regency Woods, Clayton - Beautiful single story home on cul-de-sac. Numerous upgrades & indoor laundry. Over 2000 sq. ft. with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 sparkling baths. Gorgeous yard with swimming pool.

$769,980 Eagle Peak, Clayton - Sought after area 5 bedroom, 3 ½ bath home sits on private view lot overlooking the valley and Delta. One bedroom and bath located on the main floor, 3 fireplaces and granite kitchen.

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REE ging F s r e f of Sta Lynne rofessional 's ited P her listing d e r c c ll A with a

August 5, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Obituary

Rudolf F. Wagner

RUDOLF F. WAGNER Dec. 21, 1930-July 1, 2005

Graduate School to study for a master’s degree in International Relations. He also applied for a research assistantship and was awarded a position with Political Science Professor Ernst Haas. Professor Haas’ secretary was Rudy’s future wife, Sandra. Rudy earned his master’s degree in 1957. He and Adora Lazaro, and her "All Loving Care" services, have enabled us to take a "timeout" and find some time for ourselves. She and her providers have given specialized and caring attention to our disabled son. Adora does indeed, provide "loving care." - Bud and Kim Modersbach Alamo, C A

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Peterson, from page A1 to find a missing Emu. The Emu incident was so memorable that Planning Commission member Ed Hartley and his wife Cecilia surprised Peterson with a stuffed, life-sized Emu, named Emeril which the Chief gratefully received and then handed over to his wife Carol. Throughout the evening the Chief was given his food of choice…sweets and other memorabilia from his days on the Clayton force. Even the dinner menu reflected Peterson’s witty rhetoric: “The Chief ’s Cop Cutlets: tough, stringy and a little grizzled, but really good.” Dessert was none other than platters of Krispy Kreme donuts, the chief ’s greatest weakness. There was a hilarious skit from Clayton Keystone Cops starring City Manager Gary Napper, Mayor Gregg Manning, Cecilia Hartley and Debbie Mullins who led the guests in an Ode to Chief Peterson “Oh can’t you see, Clayton belongs to thee, How our poor hearts ache with every step you take. There were proclamations with a zillion wherases, a bench dedicated to Pete on the proposed Bocce Ball Courts in Clayton;

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there was Dee Munk’s beautiful quilt with seven birdhouses to represent Peterson’s seven years in Clayton and 28 stars for his service to Oakland, there was a glass vase presented to Pete’s wife Carol, inscribed “to the incredible woman behind our chief;” and kudos like; “he’s one of the classiest guys I know,” “teacher, mentor and disciplinarian,” “humble” and “quality individual.” And despite the emotional farewell last Friday, Pete’s reign as chief is not quite over. As some guests joked about our new “Renta-Cop,” Peterson has contracted with the city to be the interim chief until a new one is hired.

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Peterson with Emeril Emu.

For more party pictures, turn to page B8

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call for a free assessment 925.672.0752 fax: 925.672.2694 mobile: 9 25.457.0954 web: alllovingcare.com P.O. Box 688, Clayton, CA

whose members were undergraduates majoring in fields such as political science, economics, business and journalism whose study would lead them into overseas work such as diplomacy, banking, export/ import and the like. Cal’s Epsilon Chapter had been founded on the Berkeley campus in 1923 but went dormant in 1972 in the atmosphere created by the Vietnam War years. About two years ago, Rudy decided that it was time to put DPE Epsilon Chapter back on the Berkeley campus. With the blessing of the founding Alpha Chapter at Georgetown University, the backing and help of some of his fraternity brothers, and his own boundless enthusiasm and energy, he got the job done. Rudy was so very proud of his role in returning this foreign service fraternity/sorority to Cal after 31 years. Rudy and Sandra, his wife of 47 years, moved to Walnut Creek from Berkeley in 1962 and then moved to Clayton in 1999. Their sons are Michael W. Wagner and Philip N. Wagner. A graveside burial service took place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 20, at Lakeside Memorial Lawn, in Folsom, CA.

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‘Rudy died suddenly and most unexpectedly on Friday, July 1, from a massive coronary while he was working in his garden in Clayton. He was born on December 21, 1930, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His family moved to Portland, Oregon in the 1940’s where he attended high school and Reed College. He graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. In 1951 Rudy enlisted in the Air Force. Posted to Germany and later France, and as a staff sergeant in military intelligence speaking German, French, and some Russian, his job was to interview German nationals who were returning home after having been interned in prisoner-of-war camps. Rudy was accepted into the University of California

Sandra were married in Berkeley in 1958. Rudy had hoped to join the United States Information Agency in an overseas post. This being the height of the Cold War, however, when it was found that he had relatives living in the Eastern Zone of Germany, his application was denied. He worked briefly in an internship with the International Division of Bank of America, went on to an advertising position with Beckmann Instruments in Richmond, California, and then to a position as advertising manager with Systron-Donner Corporation in Concord, California. He went out on his own as an independent electronics industry advertising sales representative, retiring in 1999. Rudy loved good food, good wine, and his beloved Jaguar convertible. He loved watching and attending baseball and football games with his two sons. He was a devoted “Old Blue,” and had far too many articles of clothing with a variety of “Cal” logos all over them. As a student at Cal, Rudy joined Delta Phi Epsilon, a professional interest fraternity

Page A3

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Page A4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

August 5, 2005

Ground squirrels are destructive

GREGG MANNING

MAYOR’S CORNER If you have walked Clayton’s Trails and open space in the last couple of weeks, you know the abundance of late rain and early warm weather has produced more than just a bumper crop of grass. It has given us an abundance of ground squirrels. I am talking about ground squirrels in Pied Piper summoning proportions. They seem to be everywhere. Sadly, ground squirrels are not beneficial to the city’s landscaping and are weakening creekside banks and infrastructure with their tunneling. The dollar-a day cost of the Landscape

Maintenance District that we hope voters will pass on the November ballot will allow the District to address the problem, as the situation requires and not as we presently do. Currently we can only deal with the issue annually because we are on a fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30. At this time of year, we have both the ground squirrels and the money at the same time. There simply are not enough funds to address the situation more frequently than on an annual basis. The district is dealing with the ground squirrel problem as I write this. We expect the situation to be mitigated by the time this issue of the Pioneer is in your mailbox. If you are aware of an area where there is still a problem, use the city’s Web site, www.ci.clayton.ca.us, to inform the Maintenance Department. The Web site is the best tool to communicate landscape issues to the City. It’s a wonderful way to report problems immediately and

Connors, from page A1 lease on life, it was time to consider employment options. With her very successful track record in telecommunications, she was a natural fit for a position with Qwest Communications as a Global Accounts Director where she directly oversees the largest 30 accounts in the Silicon Valley. Connors, 39, grew up in Clayton, attending Mt. Diablo Elementary and Pine Hollow Middle School and graduating from Clayton Valley High School in 1983. She attended DVC before transferring to Sacramento State College where, in 1988, this high achiever received her Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in economics and political science. Soon after graduation, Connors began her very successful career in telecommunications marketing and sales, racking up one profes-

sional award after another while employed by MCI/ WorldCom. She recently purchased the Cardinet Glen home she grew up in when her parents retired and moved to Orinda. Connors has recently taken on a brand new challenge. The vibrant, energetic single woman has a new baby—an Australian Cattle Dog puppy—her first. “I was one of five kids,” she explains, “and the family dog was always someone else’s responsibility.” She’s currently enrolled the pooch in puppy school and is slowly introducing him to the concepts of good manners and obedience to commands. “Socks, shoes, anything loose,” she laughs, “and he grabs it and bolts out the door.” Connors will serve as the League’s president until June 2007.

the staff checks it every day. When you go on the site you will see a list of topics below the mountain scene at the top. Click on City Maintenance then on Report a Problem. Also on the Web site is a schedule for solid waste, green waste and recycling pickups and a schedule of street sweeping. REPORT STREETLIGHT PROBLEMS ON THE WEB SITE There is also a menu item under Maintenance for Street Lighting Info, which I want to discuss in a little more detail. While walking down Easley drive the other day, I noticed three different lights on during the day. This is a problem not only because it’s a waste of energy and your tax dollars, but also it shortens the life of the bulb and increases the expense of the Street Lighting District. The Council has just reauthorized the continuation of the Street Lighting Fee for the current fiscal

year, which is barely enough to cover the costs to run the district. To raise the fee would require a special election, the costs of which would eat up the additional revenue for several years. When I saw the incorrectly operating lights, I noted the light pole number, the number of the closest house and the nearest cross street. Then I went on the Web site, clicked City Services and then City Maintenance and then Street Lighting Info. I then clicked on Residential Streetlights and on the sheets that appeared, located the pole numbers and Voila! They were all PG&E streetlights. I then back clicked to the previous page and on Report Problem to PG&E, and reported each light separately rather than as a group. It will be interesting to see how long it takes PG&E to fix the lights. Once you become familiar with the city’s Web site you will have no problem getting information to the city and to PG&E.

Housing, from page A1 is there such frenzy over this tiny condo in this tiny town? The answer is simple. . .because of the tiny price. In a real estate market where the median home price is over $800,000, “a condo for $87,500 is a pretty big deal,” says KTVU-TV news reporter Gasia Mikaelian. But, there’s a catch. In order to qualify for a family of three to buy the home at the $87,500 price, their income must not be more than $37,250. A family of three making $59,600 can purchase the home for about $149,000 and if the household income is $88,800, the purchase price is approximately $328,500. Different income requirements apply for different household sizes. So, who will get the house?

The City has yet to fine-tune the screening criteria, says Hoffmeister. But, those who live or work in Clayton will definitely be given “bonus points.” Regardless of who gets the house at what income level, the buyer cannot turn around and sell the house at the current market rate and pocket a huge profit. “The unit must stay in the affordable housing stream,” explains Councilwoman Julie Pierce. The home will have a 55year deed restriction, which allows for only a nominal annual appreciation and can only be resold under the affordable housing requirements. “The object is to get the first time buyer started, not to create huge profits,” said Pierce.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Classified FOR RENT Office space, about 300 sq. ft. Other half of office has a tenant who is out of the state half the month. DSL available. 685-4523.

FOR SALE Steinway Grand Piano. Signed by John H. Steinway. Give yourself or your child a fine Instrument that will last a lifetime. Excellent Condition. $39,900. Located in Clayton. Call 925-524-0719. Email: Steinway B (6’8”) Grand Piano

ties. $150/night, $950/week. Call Kevin Parker @ (925) 383-9430 or www.vrconnection.com/ parkerpaw

House Cleaning. Respectful, honorable lady with good listening and communication skills would love to clean your castle. Over 30 years experience. No teams, I do all the work. Outstanding references. I bring my own equipment. I look forward to your call. 925-813-4835.

Cozy cabin in South Lake Tahoe. 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 1 car garage. Great for a family or 2 couples. 10 minutes to Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake, casinos, skiing, and hiking. Please call Mike Risso @ (925) 890-4623.

VACATION RENTAL Cabin in Blue Lake Springs (Arnold, CA). Sleeps 6, fully remodeled, quiet, use of recreation facili-

claridgem1@aol.com Garage Sale. August 6, 63 Weatherly Drive, Clayton. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Please no early birds. Teaching supplies and elementary curriculum for sale. Packaged in categories - i.e. "Math" and "Geography." Mostly $20 - $25 a box.

FOUND Motorcycle helmet and a set of keys on June 26 at about 6:30 a.m. at the intersection of Clayton Rd and Marsh Creek Rd. Please call 925673-0317.

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Full time landscaper/maintenance worker (1), part time morning and evening restaurant servers (2), morning and evening banquet servers (2), morning fitness employee (1). Flexible hours and golf privileges. Fax resume to (925) 672-0148, or email gm@oakhurstcc.com; or apply in person at 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

1-800-WE NEED YOU 1-800-936-3339

SERVICES Perennial Garden Design by Nicole Hackett AKA The Garden Girl. Personal consultations regarding plant choices, placement, identification, fertilizing and maintenance. Spring is just around the corner. Call or email for information and pricing. 925-673-1746 (leave message) GardenGirl94517@aol.com

ROBERT SMITH SPCB LICENSE #FR28650 “Ask for Robert Smith” “I’ll give you a discount”

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925-757-5890 FAX: 925-778-7907

2515 WEST TENTH STREET ANTIOCH, CA. 94509 www.weneedyou.com

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Page A5

PIONEER INFO

Directory of Advertisers

HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517 or call the office with your credit card information. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance.

Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 A Clayton Window Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-1049 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 Alise Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 All Loving Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0752 American Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .939-4800 Apronstrings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-7621 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6622 Benton, Mureleen - American Express . . . . . . . .685-4523 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Café Santee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-3320 CCR Insurance and Financial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6324 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Clarissa Bridal Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .930-0214 Clark Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5890 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4664 Clayton Home Inspection Services . . . . . . . . . . .672-9405 Clayton Mind & Body Connections . . . . . . . . . . .673-0686 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . .672-4848 Clip n' Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-9355 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Concord Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9530 Crocker Insurance Agency - Sam Totah . . . . . . .941-1536 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Diablo Car Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .691-4529 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Dryclean USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5653 Eagles Peak Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-0435 Elysium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1333 Englund's Tea Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8327 ESI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .969-1477 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Coldwell Banker Real Estate . . .672-8787 Help You Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 Home Equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9737 Hot Basil Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288-0000 Hudak, Jim - Pianist and Composer . . . . . . . . . .673-7293 Instant Imprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9815 Integrity Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-493-5437x402 Ken Ewing Painting and Decorating . . . . . . . . . .586-1882 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Landman Consulting Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8817 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .939-7920 Law Office of Richard Littorno . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Lerner Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-1130 Maverick's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-5600 Maximum Carpet Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-3800 Mazzei Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5600 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 Merrigan, Deanna - Mt. Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . .673-9990 Morningside Horse Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3632 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . .280-8563 Mountain Mike's Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4965 Neptune Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-5100 Northgate Gardening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-8711 Northshore Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .439-3333 Oakhurst County Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Pasos de Mt. Diablo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4467 Pavilion Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6868 Petar Guest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2841 Pro-Tech Heating and Air Conditioning . . . . . . . .673-3776 R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0207 Residential Pacific Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Sellers, Nicole - Diablo Funding . . . . . . . .227-0100 x 128 Skip's Happy Hammer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9433 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 St. John's Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8855 Stone Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-2094 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 The James Gang . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .974-7678 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . .686-4747 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Intero Real Estate Services .672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Velocity Sports Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .363-0066 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Walcutt, Bill - Prudential Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .437-5535 We The People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246-0370 Williams, Mike - Rath Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-5363 Zandonella's Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-1700

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 Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages 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 to tamara@claytonpioneer.com

Advertise in the Pioneer It works. Call today to place your ad in the next issue. 672-0500

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BURK

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Page A6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Letters to the Editor Desktop vs. laptop, another perspective Dear Editor: Last issue’s Tech Talk offered some fairly specific advice about buying a computer for a college bound student. In my experience, there’s usually more than just one answer, whether it be desktop vs. laptop or Windows vs. Mac or the useful life of whatever computer you get. The best piece of advice I can add is what I often have told my computer science students, “there can be more than one right answer.” Desktop or laptop, Windows or Mac, the “best” answer can depend considerably upon your circumstances. Here are my thoughts on some of Mr. Claney’s other answers. First amongst those circumstances is what is happening at the university or college your student will be attending. Not only what does the institution support, but what are current students using. When your aspiring scholar is writing that paper at

midnight that’s due the next morning, computer support for a printer problem is going to be from the person in the next dorm room, not the college. Check out as best you can what the computer “culture” is on that campus. Generally, private colleges and the UC system have tended to have more of a Mac presence than the CSU system, which is weighted far more towards Windows. And even if the institution is geared one way, individual schools or departments might go against the grain, so check out what’s happening in your academic area. Another circumstance is the now almost ubiquitous Internet access on campuses (wired or wireless), making a laptop more in demand. Even sans Internet, a small laptop is still very useful for taking notes in class or the library. Given the laptop’s higher risk of damage or theft, consider something close to an entry-level system. Windows based laptops as low as $700 and Apple has iBooks for $900. You can work

up from there as budget and circumstance allow. With some TLC there’s no reason why such a computer can’t last for most or all of their undergraduate careers. There will still be that desire for the latest and greatest, but even today’s lower end systems have more than enough horsepower and capacity for the real needs of a college education. Clayton Smith Chair, Dept. of Computer Networking Technology Los Medanos College

Should golf course be a smoke-free zone? Dear Editor: Your article about this year’s fire season that appeared in the July 15 issue should certainly serve as an important wake up call to Clayton residents, especially to residents living in and around the Oakhurst golf course where another fire hazard often exists. The minority of golfers smoking carelessly while playing at Oakhurst continues to create

an obvious fire hazard when they toss lit cigarette and cigar butts on the course. This thoughtless habit also creates unsightly litter. During the fire season, players who smoke outside while at Oakhurst must behave more responsibly. It doesn’t take much for a wayward and still lit cigarette butt tossed on the course to spark a fire this time of year. Add a few gusts of dry seasonal winds and the blaze could spread quickly to threaten nearby homes, families, pets, and property. To anyone who smokes while playing golf at Oakhurst, please be careful. If you’re a nonsmoker playing at Oakhurst and you a see a smoker behaving carelessly, please speak up! Remind the smoker of the fire hazard being created. If the problem continues unabated, then the Oakhurst golf course should become a nonsmoking facility during the local fire season. Thank you for also bringing this matter to the community’s attention during the 2005 fire season.

the sounds of barking dogs and meowing cats. Tails are wagging, razors are buzzing and fur is flyOn a good day, Grace’s office ing. Clayton resident Graciela on Clayton Road is bustling with Carson loves every aspect of her dog and cat grooming business and is celebrating more than two years as owner of Clip n’ Clean on Clayton Road in Concord. “It’s a wonderful job,” she says. Clip n’ Clean is a full service pet GRACE CARSON AND “TURBO”

grooming salon that also offers self serve tubs. Grace and her talented staff welcome all types of breeds and pets of all sizes and shapes. Several staff members have more than 20 years in the grooming business. Grace, herself, has been a groomer for over 10 years and worked at Clip n’ Clean for a couple of years before she purchased the business. She smiles when she talks about the friendly atmosphere in the office and how they work and relate as a family. “We’re friends as well as colleagues,” she says. And that’s the type of atmosphere that keeps loyal customers coming back for more. “Some

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travel from as far away as Cordelia and Vacaville to get the service that they want for their pets. “We even have other groomers refer business to us,” Grace says. “Casey got the best haircut of her life,” says happy customer Ted Sudderth of Com Unity in Clayton. Casey suffers from seizures and Ted is careful about who he entrusts his cherished pet to. “I wouldn’t go anyplace else,” he says. “Casey is so happy when she’s there,” he adds. Other customers agree and have been taking their pets to Clip n’ Clean for almost 30 years. See their ad on page B5

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August 5, 2005

* Information and display restrictions may apply in some markets because of local rules and regulations. **The interest rate may change after consummation. Negative amortization may occur.

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August 5, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Purchase or Refinance contact

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Page A7

What is included in a home sale? When previewing a home you’re interested in buying, it’s easy to fall prey to the notion that what you see is what you get. To avoid disappointment, or a disagreement with the seller, make sure you understand what is and what is not included in the sale before you make the purchase. It’s helpful to understand the difference between real property and personal property. Real property refers to the land and anything that is permanently attached to it, such as a house, trees, shrubs and a fence. Personal property is movable— things that are not permanently attached to real property. Furniture, clothing, art work and potted plants are examples of personal property. A fixture is an item of personal property that is attached to the real property and is therefore treated as real property such as plumbing and light fixtures. Fixtures typically transfer to the buyer with the real property unless they are specifically excluded from the sale. Personal property, however, is not usually included in a home sale. Buyers sometimes assume that an item of personal property is included in the sale because it appears to be a fixture — that is, it looks like it’s permanently attached. For example, a microwave oven can appear to be built-in when it is actually only set into an opening in a cabinet. If it’s not permanently attached and the sellers are not including it in the sale, it is the seller’s personal property. A decorative mirror hung on a hook, like a piece of artwork, is personal property. Even though the mirror might at first glance appear to be a fixture, it’s

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LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ESTATE

not unless it’s permanently attached to the wall. The attachment issue is critical. A toilet is personal property when it’s sitting on display at a home renovation store. It becomes a fixture and part of the real property when it is permanently installed in someone’s house. Your purchase contract should include clauses that describe what is and what is not included in the sale. Built-in appliances, window coverings, plumbing and light fixtures and tacked down carpets are usually included as part of the real property. Freestanding appliances are not part of the real property. So unless the seller specifically includes them, they are not included. Sometimes sellers want to exclude items that are permanently attached to the property, such as a dining room chandelier. As long as you agree to this and it’s written into the purchase agreement, the seller can take the fixture with him when he moves. Buyers often request items of personal property such as a washer and dryer or refrigerator.

If the sellers agree to this as part of your negotiation, it should be written into the purchase contract. The purchase contract is a legally binding document. If the sellers offer to leave items of personal property that you don’t want like an old freezer, make sure your contract includes a clause stating that personal property and debris will be removed by the time of closing. Buyers of new homes need to be extra careful. Homes in new home developments are usually pre-sold before they are constructed. The buyers make their purchase decisions based on a seeing a model home. The model home may look very different from the home they’re buying. Model homes are often enhanced with upgraded finishes and designer furniture. You may fall in love with a model

that has granite counter tops and marble bathrooms. However, the quality finishes in

“Buyers sometimes assume that an item of personal property is included in the sale because it appears to be a fixture - that is, it looks like it's permanently attached.” Lynne French the model home may only be available for an additional price. For any real estate needs or questions contact Lynne at: Phone (925) 6728787 or E-mail: Lynne@LynneFrench.com

Glasbergen Chuckles

This is the last crossword puzzle in this series. If you are a crossword buff and want to see more puzzles, please call the office at 672-0500 or email tamara@claytonpioneer and make your wishes known.

Page A8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

August 5, 2005

Recording with a legend–part 3 In April, Jim Hudak went to Vermont to begin recording his next album with Will Ackerman, founder of Windham Hill Records, at Will’s Imaginary Road Studios. This is the third of a four-part series highlighting Jim’s week of recording in Vermont. In my last column, I noted that after our first day in the studio, setting up and getting the piano sound we wanted, we ended up with only one edited, completed song. The second day was more fruitful. One of the main reasons I enlisted the services of Will Ackerman to produce this record is his proven track record. Will has produced dozens of records that have sold millions of copies. He’s able to draw out and capture a certain emotional content in the music of artists with whom he works. There’s an almost indefinable quality Will wants in any given song, and he falls back on using the words “real,” honest,” and “creative,” to describe what moves him and what he finds acceptable or not in a piece of

trudged back to my hotel room. I decided to give the five songs a quick listening on my headphones, just to see how the music sounded from a different source than the big speaker playback system at the studio. What I heard was both delightful and mortifying. The music itself sounded fine. The piano sound was rich and deep, and in perfect tune. But those mysterious noises I referred to earlier really showed up while listening with the headphones. There were two types of noises, one from an occasionally squeaky piano sustainpedal, and the other from a source I couldn’t determine. This was annoying to say the least. These sessions were costing thousands of dollars, and I was ending up with seemingly unusable music. The next day, Wednesday, we brought in a piano technician who worked on the sustain pedal and eliminated the squeaks it was making. We also called Will’s chief engineer, Corin Nelson, to help us sort out the other strange noises

JIM HUDAK

MUSIC NOTES recorded music. By mid-day on Tuesday, our second full day of recording, we’d hit our stride. Other than a few occasional mysterious noises that would crop up here and there during our sessions, we forged ahead. We had five songs recorded and edited by the end of the day. This doesn’t include mixing and mastering, which are separate processes that come later, but the raw recordings and editing of five songs were finished by the end of the day Tuesday. Exhausted, I scrounged up some dinner in Brattleboro, where I was staying, and

Sponsors race to support downtown Derby As race day draws near for the Second Annual Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby, local businesses are racing to show their support. “Our local business community has shown its commitment to the families of Clayton through their support of many activities over the years” says committee co-chair, Mike Calamusa. “It’s no surprise that they see a wonderful opportunity with the Labor Day Derby also. It’s with the generous financial support of our sponsors that enables the Derby to provide ‘Community Cars’ for all kids to race, all day long,” says Calamusa. This year, the Derby has added another half dozen cars to the lineup. “We can now accommodate 150 kids on Derby Day,” he said. The “Derby” is presented by Clayton Community Church in association with many local merchants. For the second year, the Title Sponsor is IMC (Insurance Management Corporation). Associate Presenting Sponsorship is provided by The Clayton Pioneer and DRIVE! Media and a growing list of new and returning Associate Sponsors include All Bright Electric; Better Homes Realty, the Clayton Business and Community Association; Century 21 Realty; CF Brennan Co; Clayton Sales

and Marketing; Divorce For Men Only; Englunds Café and Catering Service; Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm; Mike Rose Autobody; Skipolini’s Pizza; They Grow So Fast; West Coast Muffler, CCC’s Mens’ Group and Ed’s Mudville Grill. New sponsors this year include American First Real Estate, Alain Pinel

Realtors, Milani and Associates Engineering, Blue Chip Muffler, Greater Bay Area Termite and Diablo Realty. Other exciting “Derby Day” festivities include a free inflatable play area, special Pitt Stop Pizza Package and Derby Dog Deal by Skipolini’s and The Livery, Hot Rod Heroes “real race car” display and autograph

ProTech moves to Brentwood In an effort to keep their prices affordable and continue to provide the same quality service to their clients, Pro-Tech Heating and Air Conditioning has announced a move to Brentwood at the end of August. They will continue to serve Clayton as in the past. “Nothing will change, other than our address,” said Sheri Dickson, co-owner. “Our phone number will remain the same, and our technicians and staff will be here to assist you.”

we were getting on occasion. Corin listened closely to our recorded tracks, and then we went to the piano where he had me play “live.” He immediately identified the noises as my fingernails, lightly clicking against the piano keys as I played! This was unbelievable to me, as I’ve made dozens of piano recordings in the past without ever encountering this problem. But the fact that we were using six extremely high end, sensitive microphones for the sessions caused the slightest sounds to be picked up. The fact is, to the average listener, the fingernail noises were barely perceptible, if at all. With the available technology we were able to eliminate the worst of the pops and clicks caused by the fingernails. Three days of recording and not much to show for it. But the best was yet to come. With the remaining three days, we really made up for lost time, as we shall see in the next column. Jim Hudak’s Music Notes column appears regularly in the Clayton Pioneer. Contact him at jimmydak@pacbell.net.

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session, free snow cones and bottled water and strolling musicians. Topping off the nostalgic feel of the day is the Antique and Classic Car Show. There is room for about 100 cars and exhibitors will receive a free Tshirt and fully stuffed goody bag. To participate in the Second Annual Great Labor Day Derby, call: Dave Fletcher, 6727956 to enter the Classic Car Show; Chuck Bidondo, 6729708 to enter the race (ages 717); or Mike Calamusa, 2122950 for sponsorships.

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Page A9

CVHS student discovers new frontier in D.C. NICOLE KRUP Special to the Pioneer

CVHS student, Nicole Krup was recently selected to participate in the Students to Leaders Program, educational workshops for high school juniors and seniors, sponsored by the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF). Nicole spent four days in Washington D.C. where she and the other students met with journalists, lobbyists and government leaders. The students got a first hand look at the inner workings of government and public policy. Here, Nicole shares some of her observations of the trip with Pioneer readers.

Stepping off of American Airlines flight 1992 in Reagan International Airport, the first observation that registered in my mind was the intensity of the energy that seemed to be wafting on the air. The second sensation was the humidity. From that first perception I knew that Washington D.C. was going to be my new frontier. As in a bizarre reversal of wagon trains and homesteading I forged my way eastward on a four day trek through the wilderness of marble monuments and brownstone behemoths deeper into the heart of the nation’s capital. Saturday evening’s featured activity was a private dinner hosted at the 4-H conference

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center in Chevy Chase, Maryland where our group would be staying. Over plates of seasoned chicken, rice, and vegetables, we became acquainted with our fellow aspiring politicians and diplomats. Despite our common heritage, we were anything but a homogenous group. Hailing from New NICOLE KRUP York, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Ohio, Arizona, and Nevada, the other students and I wasted no time in instructing one another in the proper use and pronunciation of our favorite and disparate slang terms and sharing the names of the obscure Italian hamlets that our families had left for the land of opportunity. Following a dessert of Tiramisu and seasonal fruit, Dr. Peter Vellon of the John D. Calandra Italian American Institute led a discussion of Italian Americana, and thus launched us into our ensuing

exploration of the meaning of being an Italian American leader in the United States today. Sunday morning found us adventurers deep in the deciduous forests of West Virginia, taking part in outdoor teambuilding activities as well as testing our own personal character in the form of crossing a classic ropes course high-wire and zip-line. Any unsettled stomachs were promptly quelled by a beautiful nighttime tour of the numerous monuments of Washington D.C. and a picnic dinner on the Potomac. Monday was a revelation of the eclectic and numerous career opportunities in Washington, as the other students and I met with lobbyists and local industry leaders. Our group was led on a mile-long hike through the Pentagon, after which we visited the ultra-modern Italian embassy to meet with Alberto Galluccio, First Counselor, and taste authentic gelato. Tuesday we met with congressmen Bill Pascrell of New Jersey and John Mica of Florida, as well as U.S. Congressional Chief of Staff Tony Caligiuri,

Congressional Legislative Director Chris Bernardini, and The Hill columnist, Andrew Glass. All speakers lent us insight into the complex workings of Capitol Hill and the value of our cultural heritage. The day culmi-

nated in a three-course dinner at Maggiano’s restaurant, sending myself and my friends home with full minds, full stomachs, and a desire to fulfill our own potential by leading our great country into the future.

School News

MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY

Parent packets for grades K5 will be available for pickup Aug. 15-19, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the school office at 5880 Mt. Zion Drive. They will not be mailed. Included in the packet will be all required school forms, details and schedule for Prep Day, information on student pictures, (which will be taken on Prep Day). Prep Day for grades 1 through 5 will be held Aug. 26. Orientation day for Kindergarten will be held Sept. 6. School pictures for Kindergarten students will be taken later in September. Information will be updated and posted on the school web site: www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/ mountdiabloelementary/

CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

Keep up to date on Clayton Valley High School by subscribing to the award-winning campus newspaper, The Talon. Subscriptions to The Talon also make great gifts to out-of-town grandparents or to recent CVHS graduates heading off to college. To order, send a check for $20 payable to CVHS Talon to The Talon, Clayton Valley High School, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord, CA 94521. For information about advertising in the paper, write to cvtalon@yahoo.com.

Send school news to the Pioneer at info@claytonpioneer.com

An interest in collecting stamps led to long career Michael Drum, 65, didn’t need to worry about snow, sleet and hail, but as Clayton’s Postmaster from 1980-2004, he had to make sure that all residents received their daily mail. Looking back on his life Drum remembers, “I had a great interest in stamp collecting as a child that probably got me started off with things. And I worked my way up through my 39 years in the postal services and saw huge changes along the way.” Born in Oakland, Drum was a letter carrier from early 1965 until 1971 when he became a manager in the processing plant in Oakland. “I worked the midnight to 8 a.m. shift on the truck docks there. My dock covered incoming mail from San Francisco Airport where it would come off the trucks for distribution with primarily first class and air mail.” While holding that position, Drum was drafted in the army, serving from late 1965 until Dec. 1967. His postal service years continued to accumulate while he was in the military. Upon returning to the area and willing to transfer to various postal stations, Drum was able to gain experience and eventually become a superintendent. “I had many different titles, but they basically all were the same job description and pay. I liked it though when I was called superintendent,” smiles Drum. Then in 1973 Drum had the

opportunity to become a route examiner. “That’s where I would take a look at the carrier’s route. I would count the mail and then walk, drive, ride with the carrier and count the number of stops they made, how much time it would take to get from different points of delivery along the route, etc. With that data, routes could be analyzed and adjusted accordingly and eventually I was able to do that work too.”

MICHAEL DRUM

Automation in the postal services flourished and in 1979 Drum was selected to be a Managerial Coordinator for the additional four-digit zip code system added to the existing zip codes. Also, Drum was involved in the assignment of the barcode numbers for parts of the East Bay. “Computers in the 1980’s

really automated our services. But technology today is so advanced that your letter carrier never touches your mail until they are in front of your house. All letters are automated and put in a complete sequence of the carrier’s route,” beams Drum knowing that he has had a personal hand in helping this along in the area. “One time carriers were sorting 20 feet of mail of letters per day every morning. That’s 1,000 pieces of mail per foot. Now automation is taking care of most of that for us.” In 1980, Drum was promoted to Postmaster of Clayton. “I was still working on the bar code project, so it was literally 51 weeks before I walked into the office to sit down as Postmaster here in Clayton.” Drum shares that at times being Postmaster was quite frustrating. “I had to keep convincing my superiors that we were growing and outgrowing our staffing needs and we needed more space. I also kept asking for new route adjustments, as some of my carriers were overwhelmed and delivering mail sometimes until 10 p.m. But I was told that I needed route inspections and they wouldn’t let me do them. In time though it all came together and it was a great accomplishment to see the new post office open to meet the increased population and mail volume of Clayton.”

COLLEEN ELWY

SHARING HISTORY In 2001 programs were introduced so that route adjustments could be made completely through the computer and Clayton was the first office to use this new program. Since Drum had experience with this, he was asked to train other postmasters. “Suddenly I was a ‘guru’ of route inspections,” laughs Drum. “My boss asked me to go to various post offices to share the data I knew. During the week before I retired in 2004, I finished up an adjustment package in Orinda. I told the postmaster there, ‘I would like to stay around, but I think it’s time to enjoy my own life now.” “It was a fitting time to leave actually,” says Drum. “I was ready to retire and I think I went out when I was at my best. That’s a good time to go out…when you are right at the top.” If you are a senior living in Clayton, or know of a senior that would like to share their life story with the Clayton Pioneer readers, please contact Colleen Elwy at 672-9565 or at colleensbyline@aol.com.

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Page A10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Chiropractic care can help you feel younger DR. STEVEN MOON

YOUR HEALTH

WHY WOULD I GO TO A CHIROPRACTOR? I FEEL OK. You can get great life changing benefits from Chiropractic, even if you are not in pain. Thousands of your friends and acquaintances will tell you, and new scientific research proves that Chiropractic works great for spinal and nervous system problems such as low back or leg pain, headaches and neck pain. However the benefits of Chiropractic go far beyond just pain relief. As we age we may notice that it is harder to get up in the mornings. Our joints may seem stiffer and our energy is not as great as it once was. You may have tried all the latest cure fads like

Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Shark Cartilage, vitamins, herbs, diet pills, etc., with limited success. Are you satisfied with “I guess I am just getting old?” I am not! I don’t have a problem with getting older; I just don’t want to get old. SO WHY AM I FEELING OLD AND ACHY? The answer may be that you have spinal or joint misalignments that are jamming and restricting your joint motion. This puts extra stress and pressure points on your joints. It prematurely ages your joints causing arthritis and permanent degeneration. Here is an unknown secret; IT DOES NOT HURT WHILE IT GETS WORSE AND WORSE. You can’t tell. You just might notice that it is getting harder to get up, harder to move, and you can’t

turn your neck and body like you used to. When there is enough permanent damage your pain button is finally pushed, and then it hurts. (Ouch!) That’s when most people reach for the pain pills. Good old pain meds that cover up the pain without fixing the problem and the joints just keep getting worse. It’s just like turning off the fire alarm without putting out the fire. Hmmm. You know, maybe that’s not a very good idea. Maybe it would be better to FIX the problem and STOP the premature aging of our joints. If we could somehow realign the joints and get rid of those abnormal joint pressure points, we could stop the permanent damage from getting worse. In fact, it takes a lot more of our body’s energy when we have abnormal posture and improper motion, so if we

can normalize posture and motion we can have more energy for life. You may wonder why no one ever thought of that before. Well, Chiropractic does just that, safely, without the risks of medications, injections or surgery. (You did know that even Tylenol and aspirin have side effects didn’t you?) Millions of happy Chiropractic patients attest to the effectiveness of modern Chiropractic treatments. In Part II we will discuss how Chiropractic work—theories, methods, and the future of your health.

August 5, 2005

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Retaliation not an answer to road rage Some common sense advice for the lovelorn and troubled Dear Judith, As I was driving my son to his friend’s house in Martinez the other day, I was literally forced off the freeway by another car. The driver just drove off, while I was visibly shaking from a near miss situation. I contacted the CHP to report what happened, and even gave a description of the vehicle. They haven’t helped me at all. I was thinking of purchasing pepper spray to use in retaliation the next time. Reina

Dear Reina, Well I can certainly feel for you and your upsetting ordeal, especially with your son there with you. Nothing is worse than road rage, and unfortunately there are lots of angry motorists out there who seem to get an adrenaline high from this. But, even assuming you could catch up to the rager, retaliation is not the right way to handle this situation. If you are caught in someone’s rage, pull off the road and call the police. Let’s hope this won’t happen to you or your family again. Dear Judith, Hey there. Well I think I am really being tested. I walked out of my house last week to go to work, and discovered that my ‘93 Lumina had been stolen. I ran back into the house to get my son, who found out his car had been broken into and his stereo had been stolen. I could just scream. My car isn’t worth anything. I’ll probably only get $1,000 from insurance and will now have to start making car payments. It’s not fair. If there is a lesson here, I don’t want to learn it. Give me a break please. Pam in Clayton

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Dear Pam, Good grief, what a drag. Hopefully your son’s insurance will cover his loss. As for you—what a terrible inconvenience. Look at the blue book value for your car, and see if it’s worth more than you think. As hard as it is right now, try to see past the obvious frustration. Yes your mode of transportation is no more; but now is the time to find something nice and cute! To heck with those jerks that disrupted your life. Close the door behind you and

Dear Judith, I am a divorced mother of a 10-year boy. He was born with several health issues, that I have had to deal with alone. Due to this we have become good pals, and I am totally devoted to him. Yet I feel something is missing in my life. My friends seem to think I need a man. Maybe I need to get involved in women’s group or a social cause. I know I need to make some changes. Any ideas? Linda

Dear Linda, First of all let me applaud you for shouldering the care of your son alone, and becoming such a close little unit together. Being a single parent is hard enough. Having a child that needs medical attention on top of that can be stressful too. I really don’t think introducing a man into

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your life is the right road to take at this point. There are so many wonderful groups and associations and churches that will welcome you with open arms. You will be able to utilize your caring nature and, at the same time will meet wonderful people. Try one on for size. It may be your missing piece. Judith Hall, married and the mother of three teenagers, has been a Clayton resident for 12 years. She has been involved in many aspects of the Clayton community, is ready with a helping hand, and always willing to listen with an open heart. Email your problem or second opinion to opinion@claytonpioneer.com.

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Page A11

Hands on style at Dryclean USA JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Many Clayton and Concord residents know Anoop and Manjit Cheema. They see them at sports events at Clayton Valley High School. They see them on the sidelines at local soccer games cheering their son and daughter on. And they are definitely seen at DryClean USA, a business they’ve owned for the past 15 years. That’s because they believe in a “hands on” approach to the business and to their hundreds of loyal customers. “We oversee every aspect of the business,” says Manjit. I personally inspect wedding gowns, carpets and clothing,” she adds. Anoop explains that all work is done on the premises and that’s how they are able to provide a top quality product and excellent customer service. They are now expanding their business to include pick up and delivery service. “We provide the bags and the nametags and cus-

tomers just have to pick up the phone and call us to start our new service,” says Manjit. “We love this community and wanted to make our service more convenient,” says Anoop. Getting started in the dry cleaning and laundry business wasn’t easy for the Cheemas. Fifteen years ago, Manjit was employed in the banking industry and Anoop worked with IBM. They wanted something better for their family and decided to start a dry cleaning business. They lived in Fremont but loved the Clayton Station location, which was just getting started. The only stores in the center were Walgreens and Safeway and the Cheemas decided to break grown and build DryClean USA. Manjit was 8-months pregnant with her son and Anoop decided to stay on with IBM in San Jose until the new business took off. The couple moved into an apartment in Concord and for three years, Manjit ran the

Anoop and Manjit Cheema in their Clayton Station store. drycleaning business and Anoop commuted to his job in San Jose. Anoop’s mom traveled from India to lend a hand. After three years, Anoop joined Manjit on site at the business and DryClean USA continued to prosper. Today, DryClean USA is thriving and so is the Cheema family. Manjit’s and Annop’s son

Harjan, is a sophomore at Clayton Valley High School and plays competitive soccer with the Diablo Valley Soccer Club. His team recently traveled to Florida and captured second place in the National Soccer competition. Their daughter, Gagan is a CVHS junior and also plays competitive soccer with DVSC.

Women and men-Viv’ La Différence PART 2 OF 2 CONTINUED FROM LAST ISSUE I also hear lots of requests for “long, lean muscles.” All actual muscle tissue is by definition lean, so I won’t bother with that part of the request. Despite many rumors to the contrary, no form of exercise will change the shape of a muscle. The only way to do so is with surgery. Unless someone has a flexibility issue, exercise-related soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments) cannot significantly change structural dimensions, whether it’s length or anything else. If forced, these structures may lengthen some, but this will make them weak and susceptible to injury. Permanently stretching a ligament — the tissue that con-

NEIL SIMS

SHAPE UP nects bone to bone — is obviously undesirable. It’s not so obvious that this might apply to muscles and tendons (which connect muscle to bone) as well. If it’s not structural, what we call a flexibility dysfunction with

these structures is, in scientific terms, a length-to-tension ratio problem. Length-to-tension ratio sounds complicated, but it’s actually pretty simple. If there is too much overlap in the muscle fibers, they cannot pull by each other any further, and force production stops very quickly. Thus, they end up not being able to produce as much force. Try stomping your foot down, starting with it an inch off of the ground, and then again starting with it at knee height. The longer distance clearly allows for more force production. But with muscle fibers, too much distance is also not good. If there’s not enough overlap, they can’t get enough of a hold-

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ing point to pull with, and force production is also reduced. It’s like trying to climb a ladder with just your fingertips grasping the bottom rung. So you have to understand what is a useful level of flexibility and what is not. I see this all the time in clients who have overdone some form of flexibility routine. There are important structural and functional differences in women as well. A woman’s pelvis is different than a man, which is great for childbearing, but also contributes to women being up to five times more susceptible to knee injuries. Ladies have a more noticeable physiological response to their hormonal changes, both monthly and over a lifetime. The body should be given the chance to deal with these changes, particularly at the onset (first three days) of menstruation, without the added stress of exercise. (As an aside, men also have one week a month where they are physiologically weaker.) The endocrine system (hormonal balance, etc.) of women is also more drastically affected by low levels of body fat, with anything below 12 percent body fat having possible detrimental effects on their menstruation, etc. So there you have it, ladies. I hope this helps give you a clearer understanding of what you’re doing when you exercise, eat and stretch. Know when your body needs to rest. Use challenging weight when you lift. And don’t try to look like the emaciated model in French

Neil Sims is a performance coach at Velocity Sports. He has more than ten years experience training athletes from beginner to Olympic level. Neil has a Masters of Science degree in Physiology. You can contact him at 925-363-0066.

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Page A12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Club News ROTARY CLUB The Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise awarded Past President and Club Secretary Chuck Graham Centennial Rotarian of the Year at their recent end of term celebration. Outgoing President Dr. Al Martin, DDS presented the award. Chuck is a second generation Rotarian, the son

On July 22nd, the Rotary Clubs of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise , Concord, and Concord Diablo sponsored a fund raising golf tournament at Diablo Creek Golf Course. The proceeds from the tournament benefit the 1st Tee Program, a non-profit organization, at Diablo Creek Golf Course. The 1st Tee Program impacts the lives of underprivileged and underserved young people by providing learning facilities and educational programs that promote character development and life enhancing values through the game of golf. Over 100 Rotarians and guests participated in the event, raising more $8,000 to benefit the 1st Tee Program. CLAYTON VALLEY GARDEN CLUB Club members designed and maintain the Butterfly Habitat at the Clayton Library as well as Daffodil Hill at the entrance to town. They hold monthly meetings on the second Wed. of

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Rotarian of the Year Chuck Graham and outgoing president, Al Martin. of a Pittsburg Rotary Club past President. He joined the Rotary Club of Antioch in 1971 and became President there in 1976-77. In 1988 Chuck moved to the Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise, serving there as President in 1995-96 and is the current Club Secretary. Chuck has served Rotary in many capacities but this was his first award as Rotarian of the Year. Chuck, a Professional Photographer, does public relations photography in Concord. For the last two years, he traveled to Zambia, Africa to photograph the International Vision Volunteers (IVV), a Rotary Ophthalmologist Team, to help with their recognition and fund raising efforts. Chuck is the Director of Public Relations for IVV. Warren Taylor was recently elected president of the Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotary Club. Warren and his wife Jan live in Concord. Warren is a Certified Public Accountant and has been a member of Rotary since 1994. Warren took office on July 1and his major goals will be to grow the membership and continue to focus on community and international projects. The Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotary club has 47 WARREN TAYLOR members, and is the only service organization located in Clayton. The club meets every Thursday morning at 7 a.m. at the Oakhurst Country Club. The club has received many awards as a medium sized club in district 5160. The Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise is involved in many community service activities. Recent projects include sponsoring the “Every 15 minutes” program at both Clayton Valley and Concord High School, a $5000 Community Grant for the Barbara Milliff We Care Center, Student Leadership Training Camp in the Trinity Alps, Business Training Camp for high school students, Assistance with Grad-Night activities to name a few.

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The incoming board of the Clayton Valley Garden Club, left to right: Mitzi Schenke (Secretary), Peggy Arundell (Program Chairman), Carla Thompson (Treasurer), Marcia Hart (Co-President) and JoAnne Caspar (Co-President). the month at Diamond Terrace at 7 p.m. Anyone who enjoys gardens and flowers is welcome to attend. Each month’s brief business meeting is followed by an informative program. KIWANIS CLUB “Serving the children of the world is the Kiwanis motto. Kiwanis members recently served lunch to the children of We Care center at their annual client appreciation day. The Walnut Creek Kiwanis club has been working with the We Care center for many years. We Care helps developmentally challenged children prepare emotionally and physically for the journey of life. The Walnut Creek Kiwanis club is a group of men and women whose primary purpose is to help children and have fun. The club is 33 members strong with an age range of 23 to 80 + years old. Applications for membership are currently being accepted. Members will be out pounding nails on Saturday, Aug, 13 for Habitat for Humanity on Court St. Martinez from 8am to 3pm. For more information please call Sam Totah, 925-9411536.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Page A13

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This coming Monday, August 8, 16 members of Clayton Community Church are embarking on the journey of a lifetime. They’ll spend more than 16 hours on a plane traveling from Oakland to Washington D.C to Vienna and finally to the city of Kharkov in Eastern Ukraine. Sightseeing is on the agenda, but, for these sixteen local women this trip is no vacation. Clayton resident Merry Pelletier talks about the trip as a “calling from God” and a “short term mission” to help and serve underprivileged people. “We specifically asked for an assignment that involves children,” says group coordinator Chris Boone and so the team will work mostly with orphans in Kharkov during the two-week mission. They will lead a week-long bible vacation school at the orphanage and teach oral hygiene and English. The seed for the mission was planted last December when Ron Putnam of Slavic Christian Ministries visited Clayton Community Church. Pelletier actually met Putnam three years ago and at that time felt connected to his cause. “He touched my heart and I immediately wanted to support him,” she says. She explained that Putnam and his ministry are a part of Clayton Community Church’s Benevolence program, which supports charitable organizations.

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

Coordinator Chris Boone and Merry Pelletier join a team of 17 from Clayton Community Church on a mission to the Ukraine.

When Merry found out that Chris was forming a team at Clayton Community Church she jumped in. “I’m going,” she said. Boone is a veteran of mission work having been to Guatemala, Belize, Belgium and Mexico. She has a strategic plan to prepare for all aspects of the mission trip. Once the team is set, Chris has meetings twice a month and leads the group through a series of exercises, prayer, song, worship and discussions about the practical side of their trip. As she gets to know group members, she assigns specific jobs. “Everyone has something to do,” she says. Anyone who wants to join the team is accepted. “It wasn’t that you looked at who they are and what they had, it was God who was calling,” says Pelletier. “God seems to bring the balance there,” Chris adds.

St. Bonnie’s campers on jungle safari St. Bonaventure became the Serengeti of Africa during the week of July 18-22. At “Kingdom of the SON” Bible Camp, over 290 campers, 150 teen counselors and 60 adults went on Safari with Jesus. The week consisted of parables that Jesus told, skits, crafts, games, music and pure “jungle” fun.

The daily lessons focused on the Our Father and teen counselors served as “guides” on the jungle adventure. Campers ranged in ages from 3 through grade 6. Campers and volunteer leaders brought food for the St. Bonaventure Food Pantry; socks, pajamas and girl’s hair

Church News

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The current team has a diverse list of talents from dental hygiene, music and art to experience with bible school and they will bring those talents to the orphanage in Kharkov where they will create arts and crafts projects and teach the Lord’s Prayer. On the last day they will take the older girls shopping. During the second week, the team will spend time in the countryside visiting churches and conducting drama and music classes. Patty Robinson, wife of Clayton Community Church’s pastor Shawn Robinson will preach mid week to a congregation of 800 and Pelletier will preach the following Sunday. The team’s visit will take them to impoverished areas where the average monthly income is $50. The trip itself costs about $40,000 and fundraising efforts

were very successful, explains Merry and Chris. Members wrote individual appeal letters for financial and spiritual help. The team sold Christmas wreaths and valentines. “Chris and I never doubted that we could raise the money,” says Merry The 16 women will stay in two apartments and a hotel and take day trips to the orphanage. Their contact for arrangements once they arrive in Kharkov is Ron Putnam and his ministry. And what happens when the team returns to the United States and to their church and family? Chris hopes that every member has a life changing experience. Merry hopes to make one new friend and that her heart for prayer grows. “I’ve never been to a third world country and it’s easy for me to pray for people and things that I see,” she says. When they return to the states they will stay in San Francisco for two nights for what Chris describes as a debriefing. “It’s like reverse cultural shock.” She explains that the team needs time to get used to the change and to prepare for questions like “How was your trip?” which can prove overwhelming after a mission experience like the one to the Ukraine. After the debriefing, the team will be bussed directly to Clayton Community Church’s 9 a.m. service on Sunday, August 21 at Diablo View Middle School.When asked if anything special is planned for that service, Chris responded, “I think we’ll just walk in and pray with them.”

SAINT JOHN’S EPISCOPAL “Caring for the needs of others,” is part of what Saint John’s is all about. In what has become a tradition and a central outreach effort of our church, Saint John’s Episcopal Parish is again sponsoring it’s annual community outreach project providing backpack kits for homeless youth returning to school in central Contra Costa County. We kick off this effort Aug. 7, just in time for the backto-school sales just beginning in the Saint John’s parish members Corky stores. Community Frances, Germaine Bennison, Neal members are most McCauley and Nathan Limpus recently welcome to participate prepared supper for folks in need at the in this program, and Concord Family Homeless Shelter. we welcome all who wish to donate and our coordinators will fill in where the need is greatest. Contact Saint John’s. Stop by, phone, or contact us via our Web site: www.saintjohnsparish.org. BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON The Baha’is of Clayton are inviting everyone to a talk and fellowship about steps towards a more ecologically centered life. The speaker is John Steere, an environmental planner whose 19-year career spans the public, private, and non-profit sectors of conservation and He is the co-author of the award winning “Restoring the Estuary” and numerous articles on habitat partnerships. He works currently as a senior project manager with an environmental consulting firm. Mr. Steere is the founder of East Bay Citizens for Creek Restoration and serves on the

ornaments for the Bay Area Crisis Nursery; adult socks, shampoo, toothpaste and pots and pans for St. Anthony’s Homeless Shelter; and baggies, nuts and towels for the Lindsay Wildlife Museum. On the final day efforts raised over $1,000 to help St. Mary’s Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya.

boards of the Livable Berkeley, Octave Alliance, and Partners for Parks. Date: the talk will be Aug 5, 7:30 p.m. For more information and directions call (925) 672-6686. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH We’ve got some great summer camps coming up for kids. Brochures are available at the church office or call 673-9060. Aug. 8-12, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. is basketball camp for grades 4 -8 graders at Clayton Valley High School. Cost is $75. The second annual Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby will be Sat., Sept. 3. See ad and story in this issue. To sign up, pick up a registration form at the church office (6055 Main St.) or contact Mike Fossan at 6721646. CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Sun. services are held at 10 a.m. during the summer along with Sunday school. Childcare is provided. Church offices are open Mon.through Fri. at 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton, 94517, 672-4848, www.cvpresby.org. New member class Aug. 7 after worship 11-2 p.m. Childcare and lunch provided. Contact Rev. Mooney tmoondog@aol.com Senior Pastor Patricia Plymale preaches Aug. 7, Associate Pastor Tim Mooney preaches Aug. 14 and Aug. 28. Parish associate Pastor Ray Campton preaches Aug. 21. CONCORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Our mission statement is “Seeking God, serving the community, and supporting each other”. Concord United Methodist Church wants to be more responsive in order to serve our community better. We are conducting a survey to accomplish these objectives. We appreciate all our neighbors who are willing to answer the questions in the six-question survey. If you are interested in completing a survey, look on our Web site at www.concordumc.org. Concord UMC, 1645 West Street, Concord, Ca, 94521. ETERNAL LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sun. school and Bible study at 10 a.m. Worship service begins at 11:15 a.m. Eternal Life Lutheran Church, 5554 Clayton Rd., Suite 1B, in Concord. Please call 524-0295, or email EternalLife@wels.net for more information.

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ST. BONAVENTURE PARISH Come to an all day workshop on social justice on Sept. 10, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., conducted by Jack Jezreel, the JustFaith Founder. Jack is a particularly engaging speaker, who will describe Christian social justice teaching in understandable terms and will challenge and inspire you to live according to the Gospel. $10 donation. St. Bonaventure Parish, 5562 Clayton Road, 925 279-2568 (daytime) dennis.wasco@nextel.com.

Page A14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

August 5, 2005

These hot Clayton days make us wish for shade

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

Oh Clayton, we need some shade. The summer’s hot sun is baking our homes and cars and is taking its toll. Rooms that face the west are always warmer than the rest of the house and I can’t believe how hot the leather seats on my car can get as the sun pounds through the windows. Natural shade would be appreciated—the kind provided by trees. Planting a tree now will do little to relieve the heat this year. But, think about next year and the years to come. Natural shade will help you save energy in your home, and make your yard and garden more enjoyable, and keep your car just a little more pleasant to sit in. There are five staple trees that come to mind when a potential tree planter comes in to ask questions and see what tree is right for them. Raywood Ash, Birch, Chinese Pistache, Redbud and the Chinese Evergree Elm are our five favorites. One of these selections will usually satisfy the needs of the planter. When installed in the right places, they are residential safe trees. While there are other Clayton safe

choices, these trees all have the desirable shape. They all have moderate growth, are proven growers in our area, and have a balance of flower, branch interest and fall color. Why reinvent the wheel—grow what grows well. The Raywood Ash is a moderate growing u-shaped tree that can reach up to 30-35 feet tall and 20 feet wide. This selection is great to block the afternoon sun, so consider planting on the west side of the home, 15-20 feet away from the house. This insures that the branches and leaves will not rub and fall on your roof, adding maintenance and possible pruning problems down the road. If planting in a series, place the trees 15 feet from each other, and consider staggering the plantings for interest. The Raywood Ash will need a tether staking for the first three years of life to promote a strong root set. This tree selection grows moderately fast, so there’s no need to break the bank to purchase one. Five gallon-sized trees are a great buy. You will pay around $30 and will see significant growth as soon as spring comes. The 15-gallon size tree is great for the planter that just can’t wait, it is often impressive and usually costs only about $80. Again, the spring following the planting is when you’ll begin to see the tree grow. The Raywood Ash is valued for it’s dark maroon fall color. Birch trees are some of the most recognizable trees around. Most homeowners love the white bark and weeping

branches. This tree has the tendency to become rooty, and is quite messy, but the masses love them. Try to install this selection away from your grass and make a point to deep root water weekly to encourage a deeper root system. The European White Birch can reach 35-40 feet tall and 15-20

root that eliminates the risk of future root problems. Spring blooming, purplish pink blossoms appear before the leaf. Heart shaped leaves follow. The range of heights and widths varies depending on selection. Three Oklahoma Redbuds planted encircling a west facing patio 10 feet form each other will provide late afternoon shade and vertical interest. These trees should be planted in the 15-gallon size. Young trees leave much to be desired. The Chinese Evergreen Elm is labeled as canopy tree for the homeowner looking for big shade. Reaching 30 feet tall and wide, this choice should be a single planting for newer residences. This tree can be the anchor for a large grass area, or the base to create woodland like setting. If the winter temperature deeps below 25 degrees, this tree will lose its leaves. Look for a 15-gallon when considering installing the Elm. “Drake” is a disease and pest resistant variety that is highly recommended. It is important to tether stake this selection. The canopy shape makes this tree top-heavy the first handful of years and the leaves add to the weight of the head. Plant some trees, make your neighborhood look lush. The years will go by fast, and you will get to enjoy the rewards of your planting.

tall and 20 feet wide, this tree selection would be classified as rounded. It produces fall color that will knock your socks off. Prepare to pay $80-$120 for a 15-gallon depending on the gender of the Chinese Pistache. The female selections will begin to berry during the late summer. Those berries turn

SPRING BLOOMING, purplish pink blossoms of the Redbud tree appear before the leaves of this desirable tree for patio, sidewalk and lawn planting.

feet wide. The graceful, natural shape of this tree makes it desirable to the eye. Planting these trees in threesomes is suppose to be lucky, so goes the old wives’ tale. This planting is great along the borders of your property. Use them to shield the home from the rising or set-

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ting sun. The Chinese Pistache is a popular and beautiful selection. This tree is awkward looking in its young years so a more mature selection is highly recommended because of the training that a young tree needs to make it look like a tree. Consider a 15-gallon size or

bigger if you have the budget. The Chinese Pistache is a great residential selection. Plant it along a patio, street or in a lawn. It’s slower growing during the first few years, but you’ll see more moderate growth after the tree has time to become established. Reaching 30 feet

orange/red in the fall. The male selection identified by name (Keith Davey) has more intense fall color and no berries. This variety is always more expensive, but worth it. Redbud trees are very safe patio, sidewalk and lawn plantings. They have a desirable tap-

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Page A15

Subtle leeks, the onion’s cousin One of the finest benefits of living in Northern California is our nearly year-round access to vegetables at their peak of freshness. Although typically a cool-weather plant that would dislike our recent spate of hot weather, leeks are still surprisingly fresh.

LINDA WYNER

FOOD

FOR

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Leeks have a venerable history in and around the Mediterranean Sea. They were first cultivated during the Bronze Age, some 6,000 years ago. The Greek physician Hippocrates favored them as a

cure for nosebleeds. They were thought to be beneficial for the throat, and the Roman emperor Nero reputedly ate them every day to strengthen his singing voice (and I thought he only played the violin). Shakespeare had Henry V wear a leek to identify his Welsh roots. The Romans brought leeks to the British Isles where they obtained status as the symbol of Wales. During a battle in 640 AD against the Saxons, the Welsh troops wore leeks in their hats to distinguish themselves on the battlefield. They won the battle and ever since leeks are worn as a badge to honor St. David, the patron saint of Wales. Today France, Belgium, and the Netherlands lead the world in leek production. Leeks are best purchased when about 1” to 1½” in diameter. They are grown in trenches with soil piled up around the lower part of the stalk to encourage a whiter base The long green leaves are generally discarded (but I will use them

Farm 51

when making a vegetable broth from trimmings). Since soil often gets into the leaves and between the rings, leeks need to

“Leeks have a variety of nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of Vitamin C, and some studies suggest that they contribute to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and higher HDL (good) cholesterol levels.” Linda Wyner be rinsed well before using. One way of doing this is to trim the leek just where it develops into the green leaves Slice lengthwise through the root, keeping the root attached. Run water through the layers which will stay intact because

Seth Ahonen

of the root. As part of the Allium group of veggies (and more distantly related to lilies), leeks and their cousins, the onion and garlic, have a variety of nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of Vitamin C, and some studies suggest that they contribute to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and higher HDL (good) cholesterol levels. They’ve been associated with reduced risks of colon and prostate cancer and with stabilizing blood sugar levels. On the downside, they contain oxalic acid, which can concentrate into crystals and cause problems in individuals with kidney or gallbladder disease. Leeks are sweeter and more delicate than onions or garlic. They lend a subtle flavor to dishes and go well with eggs in quiches and tarts, and are popular in soups I recently concocted a soup that is equally as good when served cool in summer as it will be hot on a brisk winter day. LEEK-POTATO-CARROT SOUP 4 leeks (1” in diameter), white part only 1 russet potato, coarsely cubed 1 carrot, peeled and thinly sliced 1 Tbsp butter 1 can chicken broth (or 2 cups homemade stock) 1 tsp marjoram ½-1 cup milk or half-and-half Melt butter in large saucepan. Clean and chop leeks and add to butter. Sauté until translucent but not brown. Add potato, carrot, broth and marjoram. Simmer until potato and carrot are very soft (about 30 minutes). Puree in food processor or blender until smooth and thick Add milk or cream to desired consistency and salt to taste. Serves two as a meal or four as a side dish.

Leeks are sweeter than onions and garlic LEEK AND EGG FRITTATA 3 Tbsp butter 1 Tbsp oil 2 medium potatoes, cubed and parboiled 1 cup sliced leeks (white part only) 1 Tbsp parsley, chopped 1 tsp marjoram, dried and crumbled 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 4 eggs 1/4 cup cream Heat 2 Tbsp butter with the oil in a large skillet. Add the potatoes and leeks and sauté until potatoes are lightly browned and tender. Transfer to a bowl and toss with parsley. Preheat oven broiler. Add remaining butter to skillet. Scramble eggs and cream and add potato mixture. Pour into skillet, top with the cheese and cook over low heat. When eggs are nearly set, place frittata under broiler until the top is lightly browned.

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Clayton

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4 Large bedrooms, 2 updated baths, approx 2325 sq.ft. Spacious formal living & dining room w/vaulted ceilings, family room w/wet bar, hardwood floor entry, updated eat-in kitchen w/tile counters & central heat/air. Spacious master suite, tile roof, new exterior paint & meticulously maintained yards!

182 Mt. Wilson Way

Clayton

$751,000

5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, approx 2,692 sq.ft. Lovely kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, gas stove, tile counters and garden window! Gas fireplace in family room, oak hardwood flr in entry, kitchen & eating area, wet bar & large laundry room with storage. Master Bedroom features views & private deck, lovely backyard with spa & gorgeous views!

1816 Yolanda Circle

Clayton

$610,000

3 Large Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,780 sq.ft. Gorgeous home inside & out! Spacious family room w/woodburning fireplace, dining room w/wood floors, new heat/air & new roof. Master Bedroom with French doors to private Trex patio deck, fruit trees & generous side & backyard with RV parking. Great Clayton Neighborhood!

102 Forest Hill Drive

Clayton

5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Gorgeous kitchen with granite counters, maple cabinets & island. Formal living w. fireplace & dining room, spacious family room w/fireplace. Open & bright throughout, inside laundry, 3 car garage, landscaped yards & Large master suite w/jacuzzi tub!

You Could Save $27,050! By selling your home with Help-U-Sell instead of with brokers who charge a 6% commission* (the savings are based on a home selling for $600,000).You can select from many fine real estate professionals.Why not choose one that will also save you money when you sell? *Commissions are negotiable and not set by law.

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LAMB AND LEEK SLOWCOOKED STEW 2 lbs. boneless stewing lamb 2 Tbsp olive oil 3 cups chopped leeks (white part only) 1 onion (diced) 4 carrots (sliced or in chunks) 1 Tbsp each dried rosemary, oregano and basil, crushed 1 – 15 oz can of chopped tomatoes 2 cups beef broth Approximately 2 cups water ¼ c tapioca 1 cup frozen peas, defrosted Place vegetables in bottom of crock pot. Heat oil and brown meat, transferring in batches. Sprinkle tapioca over the meat (it thickens the stew). Add tomatoes, herbs, and beef broth. Add enough water to just cover the ingredients. Cook 6-8 hours until meat is tender. Add peas during last half hour.

Visit our new office at 4918 Clayton Road

Page A16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

August 5, 2005

georgevujnovich.com

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EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

JUST LISTED! Gorgeous home located on a private court. 4 bedrooms, & huge bonus room, 3 baths, approx. 2,843sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Designer & decorator touches throughout! Upgraded flooring & window coverings. Formal living & dining rooms. Large family room with fireplace. Gourmet granite kitchen. 1st level bedroom & full bath. Spacious master suite. Large .22 acre lot is professionally landscaped with large lawn area, patio & wide array of flowers/ornamentals. $975,000

Fantastic "Nantucket " model backing to open space! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,600sf, rare 4 car garage & inside laundry. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded tile floors, counters, island, upgraded cabinets & pantry. Extended family room features a fireplace & recess for TV. Neutral carpet & décor throughout! Spacious master suite overlooks views of open space. Private lot backs to open space & features a sparkling inground pool with built-in elevated spa. $1,175,000

EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

Spectacular "Belvedere" model! backs to open space. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,911sf, inside laundry & rare 4 car garage with extensive custom built-in storage. Upgraded gleaming hardwood floors in entry, hall, living & dining rooms & kitchen. Downstairs bedroom or home office w/ private bath. Gourmet kitchen features granite counters, center island & pantry. Enormous great room with granite tile fireplace, full bar & custom built-in entertainment center. Master suite with jetted tub overlooks open space. Huge private level lot features a mini orchard, lush lawn, a spectacular array of flowers, paver patio & huge paved side yard with double gate! $1,199,000

EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

Immaculate "Nantucket" model facing open space! with views of hills, ridge & canyons. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,599sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Neutral carpet, décor & wood blinds throughout! Entry features upgraded double beveled glass front doors & upgraded tile floors. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded tile floors, counters, island, maple cabinets & pantry with frosted door. Expanded family room features fireplace with ceramic log insert & recess for TV. Spacious master suite. Rear yard offers a trellis covered random stone patio large lawn & play area. $1,095,000

ING D N PE

Dramatic former model ("Whitney") on a prime golf course view lot! 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,606sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Elaborate custom window coverings & light fixtures. Upgraded marble tile floors throughout main level. Downstairs bedroom or office with bath. Gourmet Corian kitchen. Family room with custom marble fireplace. Lavish master suite. Private lot with deck & extensive waterfall/pond feature & endless views of hills, golf course, valley & city. $1,119,500

CLAYTON

ING D N PE

Huge private level lot (.30 acres) at the end of a quiet court with 2/yr. new sparkling free-form pool with safety gate. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,005 sf, 2 car garage & inside laundry. Spacious and light-filled split level floor plan. Kitchen w/granite tile counters. Large patio/sun room with walls of windows. Formal living and dining rooms. Big family room with brick fireplace and granite tile wet bar. Large side yard for boat/RV parking. $799,900

CLAYTON

NG I D PEN

Single-story Mediterranean open floor plan. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,427sf , 3 car garage, inside laundry. Large kitchen, eat-in breakfast nook, pantry and wet bar. Family room with brick fireplace. Spacious Master Suite and bath. Quiet setting, level lot with mature landscaping & hot tub. $849,500

Lovely former model ("Shasta") on a prime golf course view lot! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,373sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Neutral décor throughout! Downstairs bedroom with full private bath. Gourmet kitchen. Family room with brick fireplace & custom cabinetry. Spacious master with jet tub. Private lot offers a relaxing spa & magnificent views of golf course, hills, valley & city. $1,150,000

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

ING D N PE

Rare Ridgeline View Lot! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,600sf, & 3 car garage. Maple hardwood floors in Entry, Kitchen & Family Rooms. Neutral carpet, décor & plantation shutters. Formal living and dining rooms. Gourmet kitchen w/upgraded appliances, granite counters/island & maple cabinets. Master Suite w/private deck. Large bonus room. Tropical landscaping w/beautiful palms, stamped concrete & custom waterfall. $1,275,000

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

NG I D PEN

Stunning "Nantucket" model in a quiet court setting! 4 bedrooms, den, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,820sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Neutral carpet, designer paint, plantation shutters & wood blinds throughout! Gourmet kitchen features tile counters, island & recipe desk with accent tile back splash, upgraded diagonal laid tile floors, upgraded "mocha" cabinets & pantry. Expanded family room offers a wood burning fireplace & TV recess. Spacious master suite with retreat/nursery/workout room. Large lot features colorful flowers, ornamentals, large lawn area & a trellis covered salt washed patio. $1,195,000

Mortgage Market Update Conforming $359,650 or less (no points)

Jumbo $359,651 and up (no points)

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . .5.25% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .5.375% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .5.625% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .5.75% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.375% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.875%

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . .5.375% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .5.375% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .5.75% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .5.875% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.375% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.0%

Clayton Market Update

Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS

PRICE

SALE DATE

170 Regency Drive 514 Hamburg Circle 6031 Golden Eagle Way 1200 Easley Drive 8013 Kelok Way 4701 Keller Ridge Dr 6011 Golden Eagle Wy 1824 Eagle Peak Ave 40 La Canada Court 9 Long Creek Circle 220 Condor Way 26 Mt. Wilson Way 5482 Tara Drive 7016 Molluk 474 Obsidian Way 1457 El Camino Drive 1735 Indian Wells Way 632 Mt. Olivet Court 540 Hamburg Circle 204 Fleming Drive 5780 Morgan Territory Road 112 Gold Rush Court 6023 Golden Eagle Way 200 Tumbleweed Court 4104 Coyote Circle 1851 Eagle Peak Avenue 1118 Peacock Creek Dr 7006 Molluk Way 1 El Portal Drive 1500 Haviland Court 988 Oak Street 355 Mt. Washington Way 238 Mountaire Circle 105 La Encinal Court 1142 Peacock Creek Dr. 8034 Kelok Way 122 Regency Drive

$860,000 $820,000 $960,000 $710,000 $920,000 $605,000 $815,000 $799,998 $827,000 $472,000 $689,000 $549,500 $640,000 $730,000 $1,075,000 $674,000 $675,000 $850,000 $850,000 $850,000 $1,405,000 $730,000 $829,000 $1,045,000 $482,000 $780,000 $1,350,000 $873,000 $775,000 $550,000 $788,500 $770,000 $925,000 $830,000 $1,350,000 $969,000 $786,000

7/21/05 7/20/05 7/20/05 7/14/05 7/13/05 7/12/05 7/7/05 7/6/05 7/1/05 7/1/05 6/30/05 6/28/05 6/24/05 6/24/05 6/23/05 6/23/05 6/23/05 6/23/05 6/23/05 6/22/05 6/22/05 6/17/05 6/17/05 6/16/05 6/15/05 6/8/05 6/3/05 6/2/05 6/1/05 6/1/05 6/1/05 5/31/05 5/31/05 5/31/05 5/27/05 5/27/05 5/27/05

2,324 2,391 2,854 2,188 2,542 1,595 2,315 2,467 2,427 966 1,710 1,378 1,436 1,816 3,008 1,582 1,749 2,694 2,554 2,032 3,519 1,889 2,315 2,306 1,026 2,053 4,100 2,743 2,424 1,256 2,131 1,919 2,489 2,390 4,100 2,843 2,010

BED/BATH 4/2 4/2 4/3 4/2 3/2 3/2 4/2 4/3 4/2 2/2 3/2 2/2 3/2 3/2 4/3 3/2 3/2 4/2 4/3 4/2 3/3 3/2 4/2 4/2 2/2 4/2 5/3 5/3 4/2 2/2 4/3 4/2 5/2 4/2 5/3 4/3 4/2

CLAYTON PIONEER August 5, 2005

Section B

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B1

Hike of the Week

Some days are too hot for dogs KEVIN PARKER

HIKER’S HAVEN Sugarloaf Open Space is a little known area that is tucked behind Rudgear Road and sprawls out over the hills adjacent to Highway 680. Prior to a little detective work, I didn’t even know this place existed, but for the many neighbors who live in and around this area, it is a great place for a quick afternoon hike into one of the last walnut orchards in the city. Operated by City of Walnut Creek, I was confident that dogs would be allowed and the “under voice command” rules would be in effect. As I pulled up to the main trailhead, I was not disappointed to find a handful of amenities including bathrooms, maps, camp facilities and plenty of shaded picnic benches. Due to the heat wave that settled over this area for the past couple weeks, I was prepared with a backpack full of sunscreen and more importantly water for both myself and the dogs. So we began hiking the Orchard Trail which is one of the half dozen or so trails that travel throughout the park. Trees are available for shade along the trails, but they are few and far between, which caused a bit of a problem considering

that the temperature was hovering around the 106° mark and I knew the dogs were hot. Normally a quick dip in a creek or local watering hole would have cooled them down, but not even the three bowls of water they slurped down could combat the heat. I sensed my nine year old golden retriever Cassidy was

getting over heated, so I decided to abort mission and get back to my car as quickly as possible. Back at the car, I gave the dogs whatever water I had left, even sacrificing my own because their thick coats of hair must have been the equivalent to a down parka on a hot day. So I high-tailed it back to Clayton, but realized along the

way something was seriously wrong with Cassidy. Upon arriving home, Luna, my black lab jumped out of the truck and was swimming in the pool within seconds. Cassidy on the other hand could not move, sit, stand or perform any other function, so I grabbed her, sprinted towards my pool and put her on the top step in hopes

of cooling her down. At this point, she didn’t even have enough energy to keep her head above water, so I performed my equivalent of a 911 scenario. I jumped in the pool, grabbed the dog, dashed to my car and sped down Clayton Road until I reached Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital, which I figured was my closest option. Without the immediate assistance of Dr. Marybeth Rymer and her staff, I believe Cassidy would have most likely perished, instead of sitting at my feet this very second with a

tennis ball in her mouth. I was told that Cassidy’s temperature was in the 110° range when I first arrived, so as you can guess the prognosis was less than favorable. Ultimately, with a few hours care at Monte Vista, 24 hours at the Emergency Pet Hospital on Monument, and a vet bill that will almost force me to get a second job, our oldest furry family member is going to be just fine. The moral to this story you might ask is as follows: Hot days with scorching heat are a recipe for disaster when it comes to dogs on the trail. Don’t get me wrong, I was pushing my maximum heat threshold, but fortunately was having a much easier time regulating water intake. So next time you think about taking out the dogs when the temperature is in the 100’s or see someone riding a bike while dragging a dog along on a leash, think about the story I have shared and save yourself enough money for a small vacation. Until next time, see you on the trail. For more information on this hike or other outdoor experiences, contact Kevin at hikershaven@comcast.net.

Sugarloaf Open Space Trailhead:

Take Youngs Valley Road off Rudgear Road (near 680 freeway) Trailhead is at the end of Youngs Valley Road Kevin Parker/Clayton Pioneer

z Difficulty: Moderate z Duration: 1.0 hour

View of Mt. Diablo from Sugarloaf Open Space, a little known area that is tucked behind Rudgear Road.

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Page B2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

August 5, 2005

Clayton Sports CVLL All Star Blue Team are District champions JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer

A wonderful story has emerged with the Clayton Valley Little League 10 and under All Stars (Blue) Team One, according to Manager Chris Snyder. The 10 year old All Star Blue Team One was just announced

Essayan and Neil Simmons attribute the Red Team’s strong play to the overall team effort. CVLL’s Blue Team, however, overcame some of the tough tournament competition and continued to advance through the tourney. Team 1 opened the tournament on June 29 with a complete

Walnut Creek to advance to the finals. They won 8 – 7 in extra innings! The come-from-behind victory was led by McHugh with his bases loaded triple, John Moore with his game tying hit, Coffey with his last inning triple and JT McGrane with his game winning single. Pitchers Formoso, Aldridge and Medrano

Blue Team on June 15 after the managers from the Minor A and Major divisions in Clayton Valley Little League picked players to represent the All Stars. A total of 26 players were chosen with 13 selected for Team One (Blue) and 13 for Team Two (Red). As it would turn out, both teams were very successful in the District 4 Tournament. The All Star Red Team’s season came to an end on Wednesday July 6 when they lost 13-3 to a strong Walnut Creek team. The Red team though showed a lot of heart throughout their run - going 2-2 in the District 4 tournament beating both Lafayette and Continental. The team included Joe Essayan, Matt Oelrich, Eric Dunkley, Eli Sawko, Taylor McCracken, Jared Storkan, Nathan Simmons, Sterling Pascal, Lyrica Langlois, Darren Torson, Sean Cremin, Jacob Falls and Chris Lopez. Coaches Craig Oelrich, Dave Dunkley, Mike Sawko, Phil

game shut out pitched by Brady Formoso. CVLL Blue beat Martinez #1 Team by a score of 10 – 0! Then Game two against Walnut Creek on July 5 was another shut out thrown by Shane Aldridge and Ryan Snyder, 5-0. Outstanding hits by Zach Newton and Devin McHugh made it a great start. Game three on July 7 saw a great comeback from the CVLL team as Ant Norris shut down the Martinez #2 team with his solid 3 innings and offensively Snyder, Jesse Medrano, Ben Coffey, Graham Pimm, Norris and Aldridge had the key hits to lead the 12 - 8 comeback win. After a loss to South Oakland (4-1) on July 9, the team had its back against the wall in the double elimination tournament; and, they would need to play games in South Oakland for the rest of the tournament. That meant that in their next game, a semi-final match up on Monday July 11, the team had to beat

kept the Blues in the game. In the finals which began Tuesday July 12, CVLL would meet host South Oakland. CV would have to beat them twice to win the tournament. And remember, South Oakland had already beaten CV once earlier. Needing a win, Ant Newton threw a 2 hitter giving up only one earned run. Key hits and RBIs came from Newton, Snyder, Coffey and Medrano. Runs scored by RJ Mazolewski, Pimm and Moore led to the big win and sent the Clayton All Stars into the final game. The Blues won in 4 innings under the mercy rule by a score of 13 - 2. The July 13 winner-take-all final pitted the same two teams against each other for the third time during the tourney. This time Ryan Snyder went out and threw a five inning gem and the CVLL Blue won the District 4 Championship by a 13-1 score. When all was done the South Oakland Team had only 3 hits,

Sports Shorts CONCORD CUP SWIM MEET The Concord Cup City Meet will be held at the Concord Community Pool on Cowell Road on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 5 -7. It begins in the evening on Friday and resumes on Saturday and Sunday each day at 9 a.m. Come see the excitement as our local teams the Oakhurst C.C Swim Team and the Dana Hills Swim Team compete for the coveted City Meet Concord Cup.

COUNTY SWIM MEET The annual County Swim Meet will be held August 13 – 14 at Acalanes High School those for those local recreational swim team swimmers who have County Meet qualifying times for the various

open to the public and runs four days – Tuesday through Friday from 8–10 a.m. with the participants having an opportunity to play in a short scramble on the course at the end of instruction on the Friday of each camp. Cost is $100 for members and $125 for non-members. Dates of the final individual camps are August 9-12 and August 23-26. Call the Oakhurst Proshop at 673-2813 for more information. Space is limited to 18 per camp

swimming events. The meet will include qualifying swimmers from our local teams as well as from other top swimmers across Contra Costa County and is the premier swimming event of the season each year in the county.

FINAL OAKHURST SUMMER JUNIOR GOLF CAMPS

one, and “closest to the pin” will also be held. Cost of $150 per golfer includes golf green fees, cart, door prize ticket, golf shirt, lunch, banquet dinner and auction immediately following the golf. Corporate sponsors, tee sponsors and raffle prize donor sponsorships are needed. Please call Les Garaventa, Jr., Coordinator of the tournament at 925-676-3400 for registration, sponsorships or for more information about this worthy cause.

Red Team and not allow another run to score. In the bottom of the fifth Ant Norris started off by getting on base after getting hit in the shoulder by a pitch. Pimm got on also. Snyder got a slash hit to load the bases. Aldridge hit a double down the first base line to score two. With one out, Ben Coffey hit a “seeing eye” single up the middle scoring Snyder. John Moore, who pinch run for Coffey, got to third and scored on a past ball to give the CV team the lead. McHugh shut the door in the final inning to get the win 6 – 5! Then the CV Blue All-Stars would face the District 53,

Northern Vallejo team on Monday July 25 and their bats never came alive. They lost big 11 – 2. With their backs to the wall again on Tuesday night July 26, the Blue All-Stars suffered their second loss in the tourney when they lost 4 – 0 to the same Davis team they beat on Sunday. Sadly, their bats were quiet for the second game in a row. Assisting Chris Snyder with the coaching, were Mike Formoso and Rick Medrano (with special assistance by Brian McHugh, Doug Aldridge, Kyle Coffey and Gordon Norris).

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14TH ANNUAL BOOKS & BALLS GOLF TOURNAMENT

Introduce your children to the enjoyable and lifelong sport of golf early in life! Oakhurst Country Club is offering junior golf camps for youth age 7 or 8 and up through the mid teens. The professional staff at Oakhurst will teach the rules of golf as well as golf etiquette, grip, alignment, stance, posture and basic swing mechanics with instruction and practice each day. Each camp is

The OFF season is when you train to Secure your spot IN season

they struck out seven times and had no earned runs. Michael Sprague contributed the biggest hit with a bases loaded double that cleared the bases. Later Aldridge would follow with another bases loaded triple and other key offensive contributors Norris, Newton, Pimm, Snyder, McHugh, Moore, Medrano and Formoso put the game away. By the end of the tournament, Snyder, Medrano and McHugh all hit over .400 with on base percentages over .570. Norris had 2 wins and defensively Mazolewski was perfect in the field. Manager Chris Snyder said, “Maybe for the first time in Clayton Valley Little League history, the 10 year old All Stars WON the District 4 Championship!” By taking the District 4 (Contra Costa-Alameda counties)Championship, the CVLL 10 & under Team One All-Stars advanced to a Northern California sectional tournament in Woodland where they started play on Saturday July 23 against the winners from District 3 (San Francisco – Marin), District 64 (Davis-Woodland-Vacaville, District 53 (Vallejo-Napa), and District 35 (Ft.Bragg-Santa Rosa-Windsor). With the temperature in Woodland touching the 104 degree mark at the start of the 1pm game on Saturday, the Blue team jumped out to a 5 – 0 lead against Novato North in the first inning. But after a series of walks and a few key hits by the Novato team the Blues found themselves behind in the bottom of the sixth down 5-6. JT McGrane got on first base and RJ Mazolewski went in to pinch run. Zach Newton hit a screamer past second base and ended up with a run scoring double. Ryan Snyder followed with a single to left and Newton advanced to third. Shane Aldridge then came up to the plate and hit a shot to right center and Newton scored the winning run in the 7-6 victory! On Sunday the CV Blue Team faced the District 64 team from Davis and found themselves behind 0 – 5 by the fourth inning. Devin McHugh came into the game to pitch in relief and he would throw the rest of the game

The Clayton Valley High School Parent Faculty Club is holding their annual fundraiser golf tournament on Monday, August 22 at Oakhurst Country Club to help fund their high school academic and sports programs. The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. with registration beginning at 11:30 a.m. Contests for “longest drive”, hole-in-

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August 5, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B3

Clayton Sports DVSC Black Pearl 90 takes second in the nation JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

“Awesome” and “great” were the first words out of the mouths of two local 14-yearold boys who recently returned from a trip to Florida. Garrett Biel, Harjan Cheema and their DVSC Black Pearl 90 teammates took second in the United States Club Soccer National Cup IV after losing the championship game to Bridge FA of Charleston, South Carolina 3-1. The Diablo Valley Soccer Club Black Pearl 90 under 14 boys team had won three straight games to reach the championship final. They

became the first team from central Contra Costa County to ever play in a National Championship game. “I had a great time going to Florida with the team. We gave good effort in the games,” Cheema said. Biel added, “Traveling to Florida to represent DVSC at Nationals was an awesome experience. The team was totally hyped for the tournament. Because this is the biggest tournament, I knew this was our chance to become one of the best teams in the nation. There were many college and national pool scouts at the games. This made me want to do my best and play hard every minute of every game.”

Both players talked about the heat and humidity in Florida. “When we arrived, the humidity was a shock. The next day our coach (John Badger) held a two-hour practice that helped us get used to the weather. Because most of our games were held after 8 p.m. we had plenty of time to bond as a team,” Biel explained. Northern Steel (of Pennsylvania) gained a 2-0 lead against DVSC by halftime of the first game. “We had a serious talk at halftime,” Cheema said. Biel added that “the team was very nervous for our firstever National tournament game. Then in the last 10 minutes we pulled it together, scored three goals and won 3-2. It was a very

exciting game.” The defense then took over with a pair of shutouts 2-0 over Roanoke Stars of Virginia and 1-0 over Ottawa Fury of Canada. Biel explains, “In the second game I felt great. It was the team’s best game. We dominated from the starting whistle. The team was on a roll, everyone had confidence and we realized that we could actually win this. The next day we played our first game in the afternoon heat. We defeated a tough team from Canada. The competitiveness of the games resulted in several injuries.” He went on to describe the championship match, “The game was a good battle. The boys put out good effort.”

Your pre-shot routine DAVE GRAY GRAY ON GOLF Webster’s dictionary defines the word routine as a “mechanical and sometimes monotonous performance of an established procedure.”

Now folks, if you’re down the middle with every drive, hit all the greens in regulation, and shoot three under par regularly, then I guess that could be considered monotonous. On the other hand, if you’re not satisfied with your scoring, then maybe you need to look at your pre-shot routine. Athletes (and by the way golfers are athletes) need an individualized system of relaxing and focusing your move before the actual act. Tennis

players bounce the ball before they serve. Football field-goal kickers have a precise step routine before kicking. In baseball, the batter grabs his crotch and then spits. (Hey, I’ve tried it— the spit does go further.) My point is that the procedure—the act of hitting thru the golf ball—needs a reliable, mental focus, before swinging. Now for me, my routine starts after I have selected the club. I get a few feet behind the ball, look at my target, and find a spot on the ground a few yards in front of the ball in line with the target. I walk up, address the ball, look one more time at my ground-spot, deep breathe, exhale and then swing. I’ve timed it. That takes 11 seconds. Now, that routine works great for me. But it may not work for you. Some folks take practice swings, stand over the

ball with swing thoughts, waggle, giggle, and fiddle. One factual tip, the longer you stand over the ball without moving, the greater the chance of hitting a bad shot. Our nerves bring tension. That tension tightens your grip. Then that tension creeps up your arms and into your shoulders. The only thing you’re going to hear from your golfing buddies say with that pre-shot routine is “Smooth move Ex-Lax”. So, experiment and find the procedure that will relax you before your performance. If that baseball thing works, go for it. Just make sure your parole officer isn’t watching and your back is to the wind. Dave Gray is a teaching professional at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. E-mail your questions or comments to him at sports@claytonpioneer.com

DVSC got off fast with a goal early for a 1-0 lead. Bridge FA is a new club that combined the top clubs in the Charleston, SC area to compete on the national level. Bridge rallied for two goals before halftime. In the second half the Black Pearl team put on tremendous pressure but came up short. Biel, who starts his freshman year at De La Salle High this month, described the team’s attitude after the championship game loss. “We were very upset but we knew that being the second best team in the nation was a great accomplishment and experience.” Clayton Valley High sophomore-to-be Cheema wraps up his feelings, “Now we have seen

“We were very upset but we knew that being the second best team in the nation was a great accomplishment and experience.” Garrett Biel, DVSC Black Pearl 90 team member some of the national teams. The boys and I are aware of the challenges outside of California. Now we plan to train hard and return to Nationals to claim our 1st place medals!”

Pioneers win ‘Battle of the Summer’ Major Tournament then the Walnut Creek Bulldawgs 5-4, the Burlingame Blue team 22-0, an 8-3 loss to Star Sports and a 6-2 victory over the North Bay Extreme in the semi-final game. In the championship game, the Pioneers showcased their talent and savvy baseball sense in their fourth game of the day as they soundly defeated the same number two ranked Star Sports team that had beat them earlier in the day, with a 8-6 victory, executing bunts, steals and squeeze plays, together with outstanding defense. Pat Keane pitched six gutsy innings keeping the opposition in check before turning the ball over to Julian Thornton who faced the minimum three hitters in the seventh inning, striking out two to

TIM BRUNO Special to the Pioneer

The Clayton Valley Pioneers baseball team of 14 year olds won their fourth tournament title of the summer, July 9-10 in Dixon. The USSSA 14 and under Major Division is the toughest and most competitive division for that age group. The Pioneers beat several talented clubs and were 5-1 overall in the tournament. The sole loss came at the hands of the second ranked team in Northern California, Star Sports. The Pioneers then beat them in the championship game 8-6, qualifying the Pioneers team for an USSSA World Series berth. En route to the championship game, the boys from Clayton Valley beat a talented Martinez Vikings team 2-1,

See Pioneers, page B4

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CV softball majors team places second in District 4 Tournament PAMELA SAVRE Special to the Pioneer

The Clayton Valley Little League Softball Majors All Star team just finished a record season, coming in second place in the 2005 California District 4 All Star Tournament. The All Stars played against the top teams from District 4 — Antioch West, Martinez, PinoleHercules, East County, Antioch East as well as Pittsburg. The CV team lost their first game against Martinez 5-15. Then, coming out of the loser’s bracket, it was do or die for CV. The team fought hard and took out Walnut Creek 8-5. Facing Martinez for a second time, CV won 10-5. CV then beat the tough Pinole-Hercules All Star team 11-9, allowing the team to proceed to the final championship game against Antioch West on July 8. After a hard battle, CV lost to Antioch West and

Front row: Kari McHenry, Janelle Partida, Avery Van Horn, Christa Castello, Laura Savre, Allison Eberhart; Middle row: Coach Dave Cooney, Dallas Cooney, Marissa Hobson, Lindsey English, Kristin Hardesty, Sara Bostwick, Heather Gale; Back row: Manager Rick Hardesty, Coaches Mike English, Gary Eberhart and Gary Boswell.

took second place. The team’s strong pitching by Dallas Cooney and Laura

Pioneers, from page B3

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record the save and secure the victory for the Pioneers. Timely hitting by Kevin O’Connell, Michael Leal, Thornton and Keane who drove in crucial runs for the local squad.

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Other leading hitters for The Pioneers included Vince Bruno 10-18 .555 with a double and two home runs, his ninth and tenth of the season. Mitchell Wilhite also had a home run, his seventh of the

Savre and exceptional team effort by all the other players enabled the team to season. Johnny Doig, and Andrew Gartner turned in additional outstanding pitching performances together with Keane and Thornton. The Pioneers tournament record is now an astounding 20-3. They played their final event July 16-17 in Huntington Beach, California.

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Clayton’s own

College Entrance Examination for Football Players 1. What language is spoken in France? 2. Would you ask William Shakespeare to: (a) build a bridge (b) sail the ocean (c) lead an army (d) WRITE A PLAY 3. What religion is the Pope? (Check only one) (a) Jewish (b) CATHOLIC (c) Hindu (d) Swedish (e) Agnostic 4. Metric conversion. How many feet in 0.0 meters? 5. What time is it when the big hand is on the 12 and the little hand is on the 1? 6. How many commandments was Moses given? (Approximate) 7. What are people in America’s far north called? (a) Westerners (b) Southerners (C) NORTHERNERS 8 Spell — CAT, DOG, PIG 9. Six kings of England have been called George, the last one being George the Sixth. Name the previous five.

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August 5, 2005

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Wide World of (Doggie) Sports JULIE BOND

PAWS

AND

CLAWS

While we humans may view play as a recreational activity or hobby, play to a dog is much more important. Through play, dogs occupy themselves, develop coordination and strength, and learn about their environment. Play is essential to a dog’s development both physically and mentally. As a dog owner, you can utilize this need to play and make it the basis for teaching your dog the fundamentals of obedience training. But what can you do once you and your dog are ready to move past basic obedience work? Getting

involved in sports such as agility and flyball are a great way to provide a healthy, active dog with a physical and mental challenge beyond basic obedience and can be useful for dogs who have become bored with other forms of dog training. Many dog sports are also appealing to owners because both pure and mixed breed dogs can master them. Even people who have no intention of competing formally with their dogs find that these sports engender confidence in their dogs and allow them to “blow off steam” in a constructive, rather than destructive, manner. GETTING READY FOR SPORTS So, how should you prepare yourself and your dog to participate in a canine sport? First, establish a daily routine with your dog, which incorporates specific play times. This way your dog will not drive you crazy trying to

Sage is ARF’s Adoption Star “Sage” is a 5-month-old shepherd mix who was out of time at a public shelter when The ARF Rescue Patrol™ saved him and brought him back to ARF. Sage is a snuggly, happy puppy. He loves everyone he meets and will be a constant companion to his new family. He is recommended for families with children ages 10 and above. Bring everyone who will live with Sage – including any canine family members – to meet him at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Would you like to be part of

the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our Web site, www.art.net, or call (925) 2561ARF.

engage you in Frisbee play, for example, while you are getting ready for work. Between play sessions, specific sports equipment such as Frisbees, retrieving barbells, etc. should be stored where your dog cannot see them. GET A PHYSICAL Like humans, all dogs, regardless of breed, age, or abilities, should be examined by a veterinarian prior to beginning any vigorous athletic activity. Some dogs may be prone to hereditary or developmental bone problems that will limit the amount of stressful exercise they can tolerate. You will also want to get your dog into shape and prepare him to participate in the sport you’ve chosen. Just as you would not begin a three-mile run without warming up first, you cannot expect your dog to be ready for a new sport without physically preparing him. You can warm your dog up with a vigorous walk or trot before you begin training in any new sport. If you are interested in having your dog participate in agility, for example, it will also be important for you, the owner, to be in good physical shape. Keep in mind that you will be trotting alongside your dog, guiding him through the steps needed to complete any agility course. TAKE IT EASY It is also important to remember that your dog will naturally want to please you, so you don’t want to push him too hard. Instead, allow him to develop his abilities and hone his innate skills. It is more important for your dog to have a good time with the sport you have chosen, socialize, and get some exercise, than be pushed to achieve the highest jumps, fastest retrieves, or best catches. By keeping your dog mentally alert through play and exercise, you will allow him to hone his skills and develop his potential. However, not all sports and games are suitable for

all dogs, so it is important to determine which activities best suit your dog and you. CONSIDER THE BREED So how do you choose the right sport? First, consider your dog’s breed. There are more than 400 different dog breeds all of whom can be subdivided into categories based on their innate abilities (herding, tracking, hunting, etc.). If you select appropriate games and sports for your dog based on its particular abilities and individual preferences, you will discover that you have greater success and your dog will be a more enthusiastic partner. So let’s take a look at the different breed categories first: Sporting Dog: Members of this group thrive on high intensity athletic activities. Retrievers, Setters, and Spaniels, for example, excel at retrieving games such as fetch and hide and seek, and are excellent swimmers. These natural abilities combined with their desire to please create an ideal agility or flyball participant, as well as the perfect jogging partner. Herding Dogs: Members of this group, such as Collies and Shepherds, often excel at agility, for example, due to their innate athletic abilities and the fact that they were originally bred for endurance, stamina, and grace. Their natural herding tendencies and unique jumping style often make them stand-outs in Frisbee competitions as well. Working Dogs: Representative members of this group are Rottweilers, Huskies, and Newfoundlands. These dogs are quick learners who can readily master almost any sport, including those such as carting, mushing or sledding, which require strength and endurance. However, use caution when working with some of these breeds. While you want them to

have a good time, you must be careful not to encourage their natural, protective instincts. Terriers: All of the terriers, large or small, are renowned for their self-confidence and high activity levels. They enjoy the challenges that many sports provide and are often fearless competitors. The sport you choose for your terrier will depend a great deal on his individual personality and physical prowess. Toy Breeds: While these smaller breeds such as the Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Pomeranian are bright and agile, care must be taken to modify the equipment used in the typical agility course, for example, to meet their size restrictions. For a lot of the toy breeds, joint problems are common and prevent them from enjoying many of the more vigorous athletic activities. BE AWARE OF PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS In summary, while almost any breed of dog can be taught to participate in one of the many canine sports, not all dogs will excel. In addition, some breeds have a tendency to develop skeletal problems and should not be pushed to exercise strenuously. For example, dogs with shortened muzzles and flat noses, such as Pugs and Bulldogs, often find most sports too stressful as allout exercise makes it difficult for them to breathe, especially during warm weather. CONSIDER PERSONALITY Finally, you will need to assess your own dog’s personality and temperament when choosing a sport. In general, all dogs can be described as dominant, selfassured, timid, or even fearful. One dog may exhibit all of these personality traits depending on the situation. As a rule, dominant dogs are the hardest to train; they chal-

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lenge authority and require a firm hand and consistency in training methods. It’s fine for these dogs to engage in competitive games and sports as long as you define when the game begins and ends and what your expectations are. Self-assured dogs readily welcome new experiences but will also require a firm hand as they too test boundaries and challenge their owners. Timid dogs require experienced trainers in order to realize their potential. Consistency is still the key, combined with a gentle, but firm tone. Don’t be misled by a timid or shy dog; he is often very good at manipulating you in order to achieve his goals. Taking on a sport together will strengthen the bond between you and your shy dog and help him to gain selfconfidence. Fearful dogs often find competitions that challenge them alone (without direct interaction with other dogs) to be confidence boosting. For example, seeking, retrieving, and agility are all individualized sports. Next time around, we will look in depth at some of the more popular canine sports such as Frisbee competition, flyball, and agility. Julie Bond is an animal behaviorist. Address your pet questions to her at P.O. Box 21552, Concord, CA, or you can e-mail her at K9Freud@aol.com.

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WHERE: Sebastiani Vineyards and Winery in Sonoma, CA WHEN: August 4-7, 2005 DESCRIPTION: Second Annual Sebastiani Canine Festival. Sebastiani has always been known for its dog-friendly atmosphere and this event celebrates their love of everything dog. There will be dog displays, doggie indulgences, and dog paraphernalia and daily dog films. There will also be good food and great wines. Everyone who attends will receive a souvenir Sebastiani doggie bag. HOW TO GET THERE: This four-day event will be held at the Hospitality Center located at 389 Fourth Street East in Sonoma. you can visit www.sebastiani.com for more details or call them at 707-9333230. POINTERS: Don’t forget that it can get very warm in Sonoma. Plan on packing water and water bowls for your dogs, sunscreen for yourself and your fair-skinned pooches and an extra leash just in case. Make sure your dog is wearing current ID tags and is up-to-date on the required vaccinations.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

August 5, 2005

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., AUGUST 8 FOR THE AUGUST 19 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOING Art at the YMCA @ Clayton Community Gym Art programs at the YMCA - sculpture, painting, drawing for beginners, advanced drawing.and Children's books, writing illustrating and publishing. For information contact instructor Seth Ahonen at 889-1612 or 889-1600. Clayton Community Gym, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. ONGOING THROUGH SUMMER Summer Programs from Civic Arts Education (CAE) in Walnut Creek CAE offers a wide variety of classes for adults and children. Why not sign up for a music, dance, theater, jewelry or art class for you or your children? It's the perfect time to try something new or brush up on old skills. Theme birthday parties available too. Classes are offered in two Walnut Creek locations: the Shadelands campus at 111 N. Wiget Lane (at Ygnacio Valley) and Civic Park at 1313 Civic Drive. For information on any of CAE's classes, call (925) 943-5846 or go on-line to www.arts-ed.org. ONGOING THROUGH NOV. 16 WWII Memorabilia @ Clayton Historical Society Museum The newest special exhibit at the Clayton Historical Society Museum is WWII, Red, White Blue. Artifacts and memorabilia from all walks of life during the war years will be displayed. Local veterans are well represented in this exhibit which honors the men and women who served and the families who joined in the war effort on the home front. Clayton Historical Society Museum, 6101 Main Street, Clayton. The Museum is open Sunday and Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. JUNE 11 - AUGUST 20 Reading Program @ Clayton Community Library Dragons Dreams and Daring Deeds. Read and win exciting prizes. See librarian for details. 673-0659, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. AUG. 1-19 End of summer Theatre Camp @ Civic Arts Education, Walnut Creek For children 10-15 years old, the program is three weeks of intensive study in voice training, choreography, audition techniques, acting, and more, culminating in a performance of "Dreamers" on August 20. New York based actress/playwright Caroline Altman returns this summer to teach the program. Her new musical, "Dreamers," is the story of a girl who prefers the creativity and magic of her dreams to the real world. She meets a chorus of personable sheep, the tooth Fairy, the Sandman, the frightful DreamThief, the Black Sheep, an elf who fell off Santa's sleigh, Peter pan, and more. For registration information call (925) 943-5846. Civic Arts Education, 111 N Wiget Lane in Walnut Creek. AUG. 9 Story Time Adventures @ Clayton Community Library 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. for children kindergarten through second grade. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. AUG. 6 Matt Galvin Memorial Ranch Day @ Contra Costa Fairgrounds, Antioch 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. bar-b-que tri-tip/chicken dinner, 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. dance, featuring the band Crossman Connection. Adults $20, children 12 and under $10. Purchase tickets at the Winners Circle, Antioch and Clayton, The Clayton Club and Rodies Feed Store, Clayton. Tickets can also be purchased at the fairgrounds. All proceeds benefit the Matt Galvin Scholarship Fund. For questions or donations please call 925-672-4907 or 925-408-4940. AUG. 10, AUG. 17 Summer Fun @ Clayton Historical Society Museum 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. for 8 to 12 year-olds. Play a game the Native Americans played or make a toy children played with 100 years ago. Refreshments will be served. No charge but space is limited so please register right away. Pick up registration forms outside the Museum at 6101 Main St., Clayton. For more information call Louise at 672-4778 AUG. 10 Clayton Garden Club @ Bancroft Gardens 7 p.m. We will be meeting for a guided tour of the Ruth Bancroft Gardens. Cost is $7. Parking is limited, please carpool. Any questions, contact Joann Casper at 672-7680. 1500 Bancroft Rd. Walnut Creek. AUG. 11, 18 Puppets, Puppets, Puppets @ the Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Session I Aug. 11, make a hand puppet. Session II, Aug. 18, make a marionette. Kindergarten through second grades. Registration required. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. AUG. 12 AARP @ Pleasant Hill Senior Center 1:30 p.m. Marilynn Collin, Patient Volunteer Program Manager of Hospice

and Palliative Care of Contra Costa, will present "Hospice Myths and Marvels." Learn about the many misconceptions that still surround hospice and the wondrous experiences volunteers report working with patients at end of life. Come listen to this informative talk. Refreshments provided. Pleasant Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. AUG. 13 Sistaz N Motion Business Mixer/Luncheon in Richmond 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Sistaz N Motion is a grassroots organization helping women become self-sufficient in the business community. Our organization helps women start their own business on a shoestring budget. Sistaz N Motion is committed to helping women and families from all walks of life obtain the knowledge, training, skills, equipment, and exposure to the business community needed in order to become successful entrepreneurs. 974 Carlson Blvd., Richmond, California. For more information please visit our website: <br"http://sistaznmotion.tripod.com<br><br> AUG. 16 Spirit of the Rainforest 1 p.m. Wildlife Associates, a non-profit organization known nationally for their exciting and dynamic animal programs. Learn about animals from the rainforest.673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. AUG. 17, SEPT. 24 Volunteer training @ The Lindsay Wildlife Museum, Walnut Creek August 6:30 p.m., Sept. 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek is seeking volunteers to help children and adults learn about wildlife and all the animals that are permanent residents of the museum--hawks, owls, mountain lion, gray fox, ravens, snakes, and many more. Volunteer hours are flexible. Orientation classes are free, but pre-registration is strongly suggested. Please call (925) 2544773 for more information. AUG. 21 Military Appreciation Day @ the Pittsburg Yacht Club 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Local military families are invited to spend the day at the beautiful Pittsburg Yacht Club for lunch and boat rides. Free balloons for the kids. For more information or reservations call Craig at 383-5800 or Don at 672-4709. Pittsburg Yacht Club, 3 Marina Blvd., Pittsburg. SEPT. 3 Second Annual Clayton Community Labor Day Soap Box Derby. Take a thrill ride down Main Street, flying in a home-built soap box car as the City of Clayton and Clayton Community Church celebrates it's 2nd Annual Clayton Community Great Labor Day Soap Box Derby. To sign up, pick up a registration form at the church office or contact Mike Fossan at 672-1646. SEPT. 13 Art of Retirement Classes @ Loma Vista Adult Center 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. The five-week course costs $16 for people 55+. Topics include how to keep the money you have, activities in retirement, health in retirement, travel, long-term-care insurance, happiness in retirement, volunteering vs. working part-time, and more. Upon completion students should know themselves better in light of their quest for a successful, meaningful retirement. For more information on the class, please call instructor George Fulmore at (925) 686-6916. Loma Vista Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Ave. in Concord. Call (925) 937-1530 for registration information.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS AUG. 9, 16, 23, 30 Kiwanis Club of Walnut Creek 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Meetings every Tues. All are invited to check us out and be our guest for lunch. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust St., Walnut Creek. for more information call Sam Totah, 941-1536. AUG. 10, 17, 24 Concord Soroptimist Meeting Women at their best working to help other women. Business, professional people or people interested in providing service to the community are invited to luncheon meetings at Marie Calender’s the second and fourth Wednesday of each month and at The Left Bank the third Wednesday of the month.Call Gloria Utley at 672-0508, email at gloutley@aol.com. or Jo Harlow, 827-9676. for information. AUG. 11, 18, 25 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker.www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. AUG. 11, 18, 25 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau

10 a.m.and 5:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. 800/326-8450 x 2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. AUG. 9, 23 Clayton Valley Woman’s Club @ Holy Cross Lutheran Church 9:30 a.m. Regular monthly meets held the second and fourth Tues. of the month. Anyone interested in joining the woman’s club please contact Shirley Boyd, President at 672-1163. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. AUG. 11 Women's Connection Luncheon @ Oakhurst Country Club 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. "Feeling fit, looking fine" is the theme. Deanna Vanderkous, personal trainer and co-owner of Step It Up Studios, shows us how to get in shape and stay fit. Our featured speaker is Lee Jones a businesswoman who served in the military, assigned to a General in Transport Headquarters. She tells us how she learned "It Will All Work Out". Cost is $16.00 inclusive. Please call Rose by August 5 at (925) 798-6778 to make Reservations. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr, Clayton. AUG. 25 CBCA (Clayton Business & Community Association) Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, last non-holiday Thursday of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. John Rubiales, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT AUG. 9, 16, 23, 30 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. AUG. 16 Clayton City Council Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at the following locations: City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, Ohm's Bulletin Board, 1028 Diablo St., Clayton, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton. AUG. 9, 23 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. AUG. 11 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton.

Highlighted Events HISTORICAL EVENT AT THE CLAYTON MUSEUM The Clayton Museum is hosting a special event for children aged 8 to 12 on Wednesday Aug. 10 and Wed, Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Children can play a game the Native Americans played or make a toy children played with 100 years ago. Refreshments will be served. The event is free but space is limited. Registration forms are available outside the museum at 6101 Main St. in Clayton. For more information call Louise at 672-4778. ROCKY RUN Rocky Run featuring the Iron Warriors Motorcycle Club is set for Saturday, Aug. 27. The run which features members of the East Bay Chapter of the Iron Warriors Motorcycle Club begins at McGuire’s Harley Davidson dealership in Walnut Creek and ends at the Clayton Club in Clayton. The event will include lunch, vendors and music. The Iron Warriors is a national, non-profit organization comprised of active and retired law enforcement officers and firefighters. One of the primary goals of the Club is to support community-based charities.

Calendar Sponsorship Available Sponsor the Clayton Pioneer’s Community Calendar and be the only ad on this page. Call (925) 672-0500 for details.

August 5, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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New Lunch Menu from $6.95 Kids Menu, $3.95 Hours: Mon. – Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. 1508 Kirker Pass Rd. Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. behind Shell Station Banquet facilities available

La Veranda Café

Northern Italian Cuisine in downtown Clayton Fresh soups, salads, antipasti, pizza and pasta Dinner and lunch daily Brunch on Sunday Children’s menu and take out service available

For reservations call (925) 524-0011 6201 CENTER ST. CLAYTON

Thai cuisine

Indian cuisine curries, tandooris freshly baked breads

fresh soup and salads pad thai, pad kemo chicken sate

Hot Basil Café

Enjoy both Indian and Thai Cuisine Open 7 days a week Lunch: Dinner:

Mon. - Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sun. - Thu. 5-9 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 5-9:30 p.m.

790 D Oak Grove Road At the corner of Oak Grove Road and Treat Blvd.

925-288-0000 All menu items available for take-out

Let us cater your next special event

american contemporary bistro in downtown Clayton

E lysium “Elysium is a bit of heaven in the suburbs”

Dinner Tue - Sat, 5 p.m. closed Monday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sunday Brunch

-San Francisco Chronicle, 2/18/2005

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672-11333

for reservations

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6115 Main Street Clayton, CA email: e lysium_restaurant@sbcglobal.net

Why wait? Why fight traffic and wait hours for a table when a short, 15 minute drive over the hill will bring you to your new favorite restaurant? Fine Italian dining on the beautiful Delta View Golf Course 2222 Golf Club Road, Pittsburg (925) 432-1700 From Clayton, take Kirker Pass over the hill Turn left on Leland to Golf Club Road

• Banquet Rooms • Off-site Catering

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672-6868

Page B7

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Dining Around At the corner of Center and Marsh Creek Road in downtown Clayton is LA VERANDA CAFE, serving a Northern Italian menu of pasta, pizza, chicken, veal and fish, starting at $8.50 for Bruchetta with olive oil, fresh tomatoes, garlic and basil. Pasta dishes range from $9 for Penne All’arrabiata to $11.75 for Spaghettini Frutti di Mare. And if you haven’t had brunch at La Veranda, you are missing a real treat. The menu includes all the popular breakfast choices, Eggs Benedict and Florentine, omlettes and pancakes. A new twist on the tried and true Joe’s Special will leave you begging for more. All are served with potatoes, toast and fresh fruit. Brunch choices range from $5.50 for traditional meat and eggs with potatoes to $13.75 for Vitella Tre Funghi, tenderloins of veal in a three mushroom sauce.Additional brunch choices include fresh salads, Penne Con Scampi and Chicken Parmigiana. This is a perfect place for a lovely, quiet Sunday morning brunch and you are likely to run into friends and neighbors at this popular spot. La Veranda opens on Sunday at 10 a.m. and is open daily for lunch and dinner. If you're hungry and want healthy food, CAFÉ SANTE is the perfect place to be. Ideally located in Maverick's Sports Club on Clayton Road where parking is plentiful, Café Sante offers an inviting menu with delicious items made fresh while you wait. For breakfast try the breakfast burrito or grab a bagel or muffin before you head to work. And for lunch or dinner, Café Sante has some interesting menu items like the "Wrap it Up" caesar, veggie or deli style. There's salads and daily grill selections like chicken, ball-tip or salmon served as a sandwich or Caesar salad. If you're in the mood for something hot, try the home-made turkey chili, spinach lasagne or soups and stews. Café Sante has a coffee bar, kids menu and a successful catering business The casual ambiance makes this an inviting place to dine any time. And you will enjoy meeting owner Susan O'Toole who greets everyone with a smile and great service. Coming soon is Café Sante's Frozen Yogurt bar. Linguini’s is now the PAVILION BAR AND GRILL. New owner, Hamid Shahrodizadh has added specialty items from the grill to Linguini’s traditional Italian fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, gnocchi, tortellini and vongole. Grilled items include steaks, fish and veggies and range from $5.95 for an appetizer of cheese sticks to $19.95 for the New

York strip topped with sauteed mushrooms. Pizza lovers will all be happy with the new selections. Vegetarians can choose from three selections including the Mediterranean, topped with mozzarella, spinach, sun dried tomatoes, olives, garlic, Feta cheese and drizzled with a light olive oil. The Meat Lover’s Pizza is topped with enough pepperoni, sausage, beef and salami to put every meat lover in paradise. Pizzas come in small, medium, large and extra large sizes and range from $9.95 for a small classic cheese pizza to $22.95 for an extra large Super Combo. See ad this page for hours. ELYSIUM on Main Street also has a brand new menu with more choices and lower prices. Dishes range from “small plates,” featuring appetizers, soups and salads from $5 for Organic Field Greens with toasted hazelnuts, beets and champagne vinegar, to a Half Dozen Oysters on the Half Shell for $12. “Medium plates-good for tasting,” (try the Cornmeal Crusted Calamari Salad with spicy aioli for $7.50) are great for a light meal, or you can combine them with a smaller plate for a complete meal. “Large plates, good for an entree” include Halibut and a Five Spice Dusted Duck Breast for $15; or Flank Steak and Frites (simple as that) for $14 among other choices. Owner Greg Severn has also added a “Little Ones Only” menu and heartily welcomes families with children. See Elysium’s ad this page for hours. Are you ready for a relaxing afternoon with friends, enjoying a pot of tea and delectable treats in a beautiful full service tea room? ENGLUND'S TEA COTTAGE offers these amenities and more at their lovely tea room in the Clayton Station. Proprietors Sally Englund and Pamela Barnett want the tea cottage to be a place "where good friends gather." After you browse the gift shop and collectibles, enjoy lunch or high tea with tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, fresh fruit and dip and dessert. There's a beautiful muraled room perfect for bridal and baby showers, staff meetings and club gatherings. To book your party, call 672-8327. Lunch reservations are a must. Do you have a hunger for Thai food but your dining partner is holding out for Indian? Not a problem. If you have a hearty appetite and a slim budget, you'll want to head on over to MOUNTAIN MIKE'S for the "All you can eat lunch buffet"

Enjoy a small one item pizza

Free

with purchase of any large pizza

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Mondays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. With two locations to serve you, the popular pizza restaurant has all the pizza, garlic sticks and salad bar you can eat for lunch. Price is only $4.99, kids 6 & under, $1.15 and kids 7-12, $2.99. There's also an "All you can eat" pizza and salad bar every Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. for $5.99 for adults; kids 6 and under is only $1.15 and kids 7-12, $3.45. For fine dining and lovely atmosphere, downtown Clayton has two very fine dining establishments. For view and atmosphere you can’t do better than ZANDONELLA’S situated on the lovely Delta View Golf Course in Pittsburg. Zandonella’s is open Tue.Sun for lunch and dinner. This family friendly restaurant offers an extensive menu that covers every craving. From that perfect bowl of Spaghetti and Meatballs all the way to a succulent and perfectly roasted rack of lamb, you are sure to find

your favorite. All entrees include soup or salad, pasta and bread. The view is free. Call for reservations, 432-1700. A little more on the casual side and a great place to take the kids is ROCCO’S RISTORANTE at 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek. Voted the best pizza in the Bay Area by a Contra Costa Times Reader Poll, Rocco’s serves up a killer house specialty. The Dominator, piled high with pepperoni, salami, mushrooms, ham, linguica, sausage and onions, is not for the faint of heart. At $19.97, this large pizza will feed a small army. Rocco’s also has several choices of classic Italian pasta, homemade minestrone and several salads. All pasta dishes are served with fresh bread. Top your pasta dinner off with a glass of wine and you’re well fed and satisfied for well under $20 (tax and tip included.) Rocco’s opens every day at 11 a.m.

It’s always the right time for tea at

Englund's Tea Cottage “Where good friends gather...”

A beautiful full service tea room featuring… High tea. Delectable lunches. Fresh salads. Fresh baked scones and desserts. Special events. and Come our e brows and p o gift sh tibles c e l l o c

672-TEAS (8327) www.EnglundsTeaCottage.com 5433 L Clayton Road in Clayton Station now owned by Clayton resident, Susan O'Toole

OPEN Mon.Thur. 8 - 8 Fri. & Sat. 8-2

Located in

PHONE 4 2 9 3 3 2 0

Mavericks Spor ts Club

at 5294 Clayton Road in Concord,

Ask us about Catering.

Non-members welcome

$ $ $

5 4 3

Serving fresh fruit smoothies, espresso drinks, & a fresh & healthy variety of breakfast, lunch & dinner items for you & your family. $1.00 off any sandwich when you mention this ad

50% OFF

00 Off

X-Large

00 Off

Second Pizza Buy any large or

Large

00 Off

medium pizza at regular price and get 1/2 off second pizza of equal or lesser value

Medium

Mountain Mike’s Pizza Valid at participating stores only. Expires 12/31/05

ALL

YOU CAN EAT LUNCH BUFFET

Mountain Mike’s Pizza Valid at participating stores only. Expires 12/31/05

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Only $4.99 6 & under $1.15 kids 7-12 $2.99 5358 Clayton Rd. Concord

3501 Clayton Rd. Concord

(Next to Clayton Bowl)

(El Monte Shopping Center)

689-4965

676-9000

Fundraisers z Team Specials z Group Discounts z Parties

Page B8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

See story on Page 1 Pictured from top: 1. Pete and Carol Peterson, 2. Diana Errington, 3. Emcee Howard Geller, 4. Councilman Pete Laurence, 5. Susan Burdette, 6. Keystone Cop Debbie Mullins, 7. Planning Commissioner Keith Haydon and wife Cindy, 8. Dee Munk and Joan Manning, 9. Ed Hartley and Lou Gernhardt, 10. Gloria Utley and Jan Rubiales, 11. Clayton police officers Mario Guzman, Sean McNamara, Rich Enea, Jr., and Sergeant Emeritus, Rich Enea, 12. John Miller and Clayton Pioneer’s Jill Bedecarre, 13. Judi and Ted Sudderth, 14. Clayton Police Sergeant Tim O’Hara with Bob and Sharon Rodenberg, 15. Ron and Sandy Williamson, 16. Al and Renee Martin, 17. Councilwoman Julie Pierce and husband Steve, 18. Past City Manager Rich Hill and current City Manager Gary Napper.

August 5, 2005

More photos from the Chief ’s retirement party 2

When you u call Lynne French, be su ure to requ uest a free cop py of her special rep port “Home Buyers: How to Avoid Paying Too Mu uch.” This valu uable information can save you u preciou us time and money as you u prep pare to make you ur move.

(925) 672-8787 www.LynneFrench.com Lynne@LynneFrench.com 6200-E Center St. Clayton, CA 94517 1801 N. California Blvd. Walnut Creek, CA 94596

rom the city to the country, the East Bay Area is a place full of surprises. Just ask longtime resident and local real estate professional, Lynne French. For her, it provides the ideal setting for some of her favorite hobbies, which include golf, hiking, jogging and horseback riding. “I discover something new here every day,” Lynne says. “That’s why I take such great pride and joy in helping others make the most of their real estate opportunities in the East Bay Area.” With her straightforward determination and in-depth knowledge

of the local home market, Lynne has guided many East Bay residents to excellent results. She is backed by a team of skilled professionals, including her husband, Danny, a former general contractor, giving her unique insight into every aspect of your home. When it comes time to buy or sell a home in the East Bay area, Lynne French is the ultimate guide. Her experience, care and energy will make your move a complete success. Give her a call today and Discover the Possibilities in the local real estate market.