See Inside
East Bay Regional Parks Activity Guide
Assisted living, retail shops proposed for Main Street
www.claytonpioneer.com
HowARd GelleR
MAYOR’S CORNER
IT’S YOUR PAPER August 12, 2016
925.672.0500
TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Relay for Life a moving fundraiser for cancer research
The Relay for Life will kick off for the sixth time in Clayton at 10 a.m. Aug. 13 at Mt. Diablo Elementary School. Participants and donors from all over the Bay Area join together to make this one of the most successful relays in the state. This 24-hour walk concedes cancer never sleeps and neither will each team, as they walk to stomp out cancer in our lifetimes. The walk takes on a celebratory atmosphere as walkers cheer on those who have conquered a personal battle. Bands play all day long, there’s food to buy and many incredible baskets to win. The mood turns more somber in the evening as luminaries are lit, remembering those who lost their battle. Everyone’s life is impacted in some by way Rendering courtesy Pacific Union land cancer. The event ends at 10 a.m. A FTER TWO YEARS OF MARKETING THE VACANT LOT IN THE TOWN CENTER, the city has struck a deal with Pacific Union Aug. 14. Join the community for an land Investors who is also buying the adjacent church property. Pacific Union will combine the two parcels and proposes a senior assisted living facility and 10,500 sq. ft. of retail space fronting Main Street.
See Mayor page 6
CBCA brings national attention to Clayton with KCBS Rib Cookoff
CBCA member and recently KCBS certified judge Wendy Moore was surprised how difficult judging can be. Judges award points based on very strict rules set by KCBS, disqualifying any that don’t meet the exacting standards. “It’s unbelievably intense,”
Moore said. There were at least four winners in three categories in both the amateur and professional division for each ribs, chicken and pulled pork. Clayton based Bad Dads headed by Alan Bender walked away with the Grand Champion prize.
The team from Grocery Outlet in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center won second prize of $250 in the amateur rib division. Owners Darrell and Tami Smith promptly donated the check back to the CBCA. An estimated 3500-4000 people turned out to munch on ribs provided by Bonehead Texas BBQ and Sloe Hand BBQ. Much to the disappointment of many, rib sales by contestants was prohibited by the health department. Event chair, Rory Richmond said attendance surpassed projections. “We had food for 1500 and ran out of everything.” Next up for the CBCA is the annual Oktoberfest, Oct. 1-2. The CBCA mounts the community events as fundraisers. Profits are returned to the community in the form of grants, donations and scholarships. For membership information, go to www.claytoncbca.org or call the office at (925) 672-2272.
Gentlepeople, start your engines, er, pedals. The 13th Annual Labor Day Derby and Custom Car Show is fast approaching. The Sat., Sept. 3 event is produced by Clayton
Community Church with the support of local vendors and merchants. This combined event draws hundreds of kids and classic cars downtown for some low-
speed races down Main and friendly competition in the Custom Car Show. The soapbox-like Derby will start at 9 a.m. at the clock on Main Street. The partici-
TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
What started out as a modest membership drive in the backyard of the Clayton Club six years ago, this year moved out onto Main Street and into the big leagues. The Clayton Business and Community Association’s Annual Rib Cook-off last Saturday boasted 48 entries judged by professional judges certified by the Kansas City Barbeque Society. Several locals who attended the KCBS all-day judging certification class in May were among the judges that awarded cash prizes to winners for the best chicken, the best pulled pork and the best ribs. Other judges traveled from Oakley, Clovis and Southern California.
What’s Inside
Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Community Calendar . . . . .15
Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
School News . . . . . . . . . . . .8
MAIN STREET WAS WALL TO WALL RIBS AND CHICKEN last Saturday as 48 BBQ hopefuls vied for cash prizes and bragging rights in the CBCA Rib Cook off. Clayton teens Patrick Cogo and Jack Clough sampled a few of the offerings, grateful not to be vegetarians.
At long last, Clayton is on the way to seeing some commercial action in the Town Center. A Danville developer is literally doubling down on downtown with the purchase of two parcels on Main Street owned by the city of Clayton and Clayton Community Church. Pacific Union Land Investors, LLC has signed an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) with the city of Clayton to purchase its 1.67 acres on Main Street for $1.65 million. At the same time, Pacific Union has signed a Letter of Intent to buy Clayton Community Church’s adjacent parcel — approximately 0.8 acre. The two parcels combined will be the site of a 90-unit senior residential facility and about 10,500 sq. ft. of commercial space fronting Main Street. While not exactly the bustling “Sonoma-like” retail center many had hoped for, the project will bring up to eight storefronts for small businesses
See Main St., page 18
Ipsen ready to medal in Rio
Photo courtesy of the Ipsen Family
Clayton’s Kristian Ipsen (right) and fellow American diver Sam Dorman enjoyed being part of the USA team marching in the Parade of Nations in Maracana Stadium at the opening Ceremonies of the Rio olympics last Friday. Ipsen was participating in his second opening Ceremonies and is competing in the three-meter springboard looking to medal for the second time. He won bronze in 3M synchro four years in london and anticipated going to Rio in the same event with dorman as his partner before the USA diving coaching staff placed them with separate partners a couple months before the US olympic Trials. The de la Salle High and Stanford grad competes this coming Monday (preliminaries) and Tuesday (semi-finals and finals) in the 3M springboard. Ipsen will have to overcome the favored Chinese and Russian divers to get on the podium.
Labor Day Derby and Car Show back for 13th year pating children, ages 7 to 14, will be divided into three age categories and will each race twice. The best combined times will be awarded trophies. No driving experience neces-
sary. The custom made little soapbox-type cars, all sponsored by local merchants, are provided free to the kids.
See Derby, page 9
Postal Customer ECRWSS
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190
Around Town
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 12, 2016
Clayton author to appear at La Veranda Scouts clean up in Yosemite Chloe Laube will offer a peek at her five-star novella, “Dream On, Dancing Queen,” 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, at La Veranda Cafe in Clayton. The event will feature wine tasting and nibbles. Laube was born in Oakland and graduated from UC Berkeley. She worked at Alameda County Social Services for 33 years as a field worker, supervisor and program manager. The 1991 fire scared her out of the Oakland hills, and she discovered Clayton. It was love at first sight. Her book tells the story of gullible Cara Farrar, who sets sail with best friend Josie Wong on a Mediterranean
CHLOE LAUBE
cruise. Cara falls hard for dashing Italian dance host Nick, but Josie is suspicious. Is Nick for real or an exploitive gigolo? Nick follows Cara to Clayton, and they begin a life filled with passion and pasta. But Nick’s angry outbursts tear at Cara’s heart. She is scared and wonders if Josie was right. “If you like Hitchcock endings, you’ll love this one,” Laube says of her debut work. “After 23 years here, it was fun to work a bit of Clayton’s charm into the book,” she adds. “I would have done more, but it was hard to keep up with Cara and Nick. Maybe next time.”
Kops for Kids Benefit Tourney
Contra Costa Kops for Kids will hold the 18th Annual Golf Classic at Oakhurst Country Club on Aug. 29, 2016. Contra Costa Kops for Kids is a group of active and retired police officers who work to help prevent violence, drug abuse, and juvenile delinquency in Contra Costa County. All proceeds from the Kops for Kids Golf Classic will go to support youth programs in Contra Costa County. The cost for attending the Golf Classic is $175 per golfer or $675 for a foursome. The general public is welcome. For more information on the 2016 Contra Costa Kops for Kids Golf Classic presented by USS POSCO Industries, please visit www.contracostakopsforkids.org, or call (925) 827-1998.
Clayton Troop 262 Scouts and their families helped beautify Wawona Campground in Yosemite on July 24. The troop wrapped up their camping and hiking trip to Yosemite by
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
Library’s bot put to the test
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1127 Peacock Creek Dr – Clayton
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407 Wawona Ln. – Clayton
(925) 567-6170 jenstojanovich@yahoo.com
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Diane and Bill Hayes Realtor-Associate
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provided by Better Homes Realty
homesbydianehayes.com ADDRESS
PRICE
219 Mt. Wilson Place . . . . . . $935,000 5863 Pine Hollow Rd . . . . . . $675,000 1013 Mitchell Canyon Rd. . . $690,000 9 Long Creek Circle . . . . . . . $415,000 1189 Shell Lane . . . . . . . . . . $540,000 1025 Panadero Way . . . . . . $710,000 90 Kelok Ct . . . . . . . . . . . . . $799,950
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Clayton Market Update
Rarely Available Single Story in Eagle Peak at Oakhurst Country Club! 3 bedrooms plus a den, 2 baths, approx. 2505sf & 3 car garage! Open & inviting floor plan. Large low maintenance lot! $849,000
PE ND I NG
5472 Roundtree Pl. #E–Concord
Clayton Residents
SF
BED/BATH SALE DATE ADDRESS
. . . . .2694 . . . . . .5/2.5 . . . . . .8/2/16 . . . . .2338 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .7/29/16 . . . . .1450 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .7/28/16 . . . . .966 . . . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . .7/28/16 . . . . .1709 . . . . . .3/3 . . . . . . .7/26/16 . . . . .1646 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .7/22/16 . . . . .2237 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .7/21/16
Sharp Updated Single Story on a Court! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2010sf & inside laundry. Granite kitchen, engineered hardwood floors, crown moulding, deco paint & new carpet are just some of the many upgrades! Private low maintenance lot features “Heavenly Greens” lawn & Mt. Diablo views! $759,000
Spectacular Custom Home tucked away in an irreplaceable setting backing to open space @ the top of Davis Ridge! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3305sf & 3 car garage! Private Oasis lot is approx. .56 acres! $1,095,000
$519,000
Broker-Associate
Spectacular "Serenade model" in Falcon Ridge at Oakhurst Country Club 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, plus den. 2843sf with an attached 3 car garage. 4th bedroom can be bonus room. Gourmet kitchen opens to family room with upgraded river rock faced fireplace. Huge lot offers trellis covered patio and built in BBQ. $899,000
5799 Pepperridge Wy – Concord
Chaparral Springs at Oakhurst Country Club! Popular “Manzanita” model featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1355sf with inside laundry & 2 car garage! Walk to downtown!
Jennifer Stojanovich
8015 Kelok Way – Clayton
8 Malibu Court – Clayton
201 Prospector Pl. – Clayton
George Vujnovich,
Cal BRE #01222762
in a little over three hours, filling the trailer with ashes and charred pieces of wood. That brought the group total to 78 service hours for the 26 participants.
Christopher Wong, vice president of the Robotics Club at Northgate High School, came to the Clayton Library to test out the library’s Lego Mindstorms robotics kit. The toy, which is owned by the county library, is part of the library’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math) Summer Reading Program. USS-POSCO INDUSTRIES PRESENTS CONTRA COSTA KOPS FOR Wong spent a couple of KIDS WITH A CHECK FOR $5,000 to support the upcoming hours piecing together and test18th Annual Kops for Kids Golf Classic on Aug. 29 From ing the device and then providleft larry lewis, Vice President of Contra Costa Kops for ed the Teen Services librarian Kids, dan lawrence, retired Chief from the Clayton Police with several ideas to use the bot department, Chuck Blazer, detective for the Pittsburg Police in fun relays, such as rolling BRIAN WASEEM, left, controls the lego Mindstorms toy under department and Chairman of the 18th Annual Kops for balls and carrying items with its the guidance of Christopher wong at the Clayton library. Kids Golf Classic, Yeoung Tae Yoo and larry Sutherland controllable arms. from USS-PoSCo Industries.
Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell since 1979
Cal BRE #01446062
completing a service project of cleaning out the fire pits at the campground’s three loops. Equipped with buckets, shovels, gloves and plenty of scout spirit, the volunteers finished
5450 Concord Blvd., – Concord
Fabulous Upper Unit on the Concord/ Clayton Border! Sleek & Modern design & finishes highlight this versatile unit! Updated Kitchen with slab quartz counters & stainless steel appliances! Family room features vaulted ceilings & gas fireplace with custom rustic mantle! Rare inside laundry hook-up! $249,000
SOLD
1157 Fair Weather Cir. – Concord 1189 Shell Lane, Clayton
$713,000
$540,000
5536 Pennsylvania Blvd. Concord $570,000
PRICE
250 Bigelow St . . . . . . . . . . . $889,000 4825 Morgan Territory Rd . . $817,000 175 Mountaire Pkwy . . . . . . $673,500 208 Mountaire Pkwy . . . . . . $780,000 27 Petar Ct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $764,000 317 Windmill Canyon Pl. . . . $750,000
SF
. . . . .2325 . . . . .2141 . . . . .2154 . . . . .2325 . . . . .2010 . . . . .2053
BED/BATH SALE DATE
. . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .7/18/16 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .7/14/16 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .7/13/16 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .7/13/16 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .7/8/16 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . .7/8/16
August 12, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Summer Stage wraps up with Broadway review
CTC Summer Stage Class of 2016 finished their three-week intensive with back to back performances of “A Trip down Broadway, Jr.”
Pioneer travels
Matthew Jeffrey Williams of Clayton was awarded the Boy Scouts of America’s Eagle Scout rank on Aug. 6 at the Court of Honor at St. Bonaventure’s Church. Matthew has a long record of service in the community including improvements to the grounds at St. Bonaventure’s. His Eagle Scout project was to replace the wooden headers along a gravel footpath. Matthew is a 2016 graduate of De La Salle High School and the son of Elizabeth Williams of Clayton.
GRAND CANYON AND THE SOUTHWEST Quincy and Ryan Miller of Clayton took a weeklong tour of the Southwest with their family this summer. Highlights of their trip included Grand Canyon, Four Corners, Mesa Verde, a ride on the Durango & Silverton Railroad, Petrified Forest, and nightly thunderstorms. Quincy was excited to tour the Cliff Palace cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park since it was featured in her Social Studies book last year.
le
$569,000
Antioch
$475,000
Diablo Estates — Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with hardwood floors and crown molding. Family room with wood beamed ceiling and built in book shelves, living room with fireplace, updated kitchen and inside laundry room. Great yard with fruit trees, RV parking and patio.
Daybreak — This stunning home features 4 bedrooms + Loft and 3 full baths. Beautiful Laminate floors. Spacious Master Suite with private bath. Large backyard with canvass patio cover that converts to outside room when sides are rolled down. Close to shopping, schools and freeway access. Nancy Donofrio (925) 998-7705 NDonofrio@windermere.com Cal BRE#01353299
Sam Small goes big in Times Square
MATTHEW WILLIAMS
ce
Pri
$595,000
Pittsburg
$289,000
Garaventa Oaks — Priced to sell 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in desirable neighborhood. Family room with cathedral ceiling, wet bar and fireplace. Updated, eat in kitchen with garden window and stainless appliances. Formal living and inside laundry rooms. Call for more info.
Walk Downtown — 3 spacious bedrooms PLUS finished basement currently used as Master bedroom! Charming home with inviting front porch, fireplace in LR, hardwood floors, sunny eat in kitchen and indoor laundry room. Lovely backyard with patio & detached 1 car garage Heather Gray (925) 765-3822 RealEstatebyHeather.com Cal BRE#01329100
Lynne & Sylvia offer free staging on ALL LISTINGS
At the Gazebo in The Grove Set up chairs and blankets on the lawn after 4 p.m.
Aug. 13 Diamond Dave
Clayton favorite returns playing the greatest hits of our time.
Clayton resident Sam Small will appear on the Jumbotron in New York City’s Times Square on Sat., Sept. 17 as part of the National Down Syndrome Society’s Times Square Video presentation for its 22nd annual Buddy Walk. The video highlights children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome and promotes the value, acceptance, and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Four-year-old Sam attends a mainstream preschool with typically developing peers, loves sports, is a big fan of any sort of motor vehicle. His mom, Cathleen Small is the medical outreach coordinator and legislative advocate for Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area.
g
Concord
6 to 8:30 p.m.
50s/60s tribute to cruisin' cars, sock-hops, beach parties and Rockn-Roll.
din
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Sat.
Aug. 27 Hot Rods Band
The Pioneer wants to know about your anniversaries, weddings, engagements, births, awards and milestones. Please send a short description of your event, a high-resolution photo and your contact info to editor@claytonpioneer.com
Sa
CTC is swinging into action for their fall production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” a family friendly musical for all ages Oct. 13-29 at Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St. For ticket info go to claytontheatrecompany.com.
Matthew Williams awarded Eagle Scout
BRITISH COLUMBIA The Butticcii Family headed north to British Columbia in July. While there, they visited the British Columbia Parliament and the museum across the street that features a fully intact infant Wooly Mammoth.
Concord
More than 40 young thespians completed Clayton Theatre Company’s Summer Stage program last month. The threeweek intensive emphasized acting, singing and dancing for musicals and culminated in a 50-minute performance of “A Trip Down Broadway, Jr.” The show was adapted from the original full length production by CTC’s managing director, Roxanne Pardi and camp director LaTonya Watts. The full cast presented two performances, both of which were sold out. The kids learned audition techniques and will take home a professional resume and headshot.
Concerts in the Grove
Concord
$369,000
Antioch
$479,000
Ygnacio Highlands — Charming 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath townhome just minutes from shopping and schools. Large, open kitchen, family room with brick fireplace and inside laundry room. Light and bright unit with hardwood floors, a private patio and a detached 2 car garage.
Regency Woods — Popular 4 bedroom + den floor plan on over a quarter acre lot. Updated kitchen, distressed wood flooring, new carpet & fresh paint. Large entertainers yard with partial views of mountains, spa, outdoor bbq & huge deck. 3 large, storage sheds and RV/boat parking. Kelly McDougall (925) 787-0448 KellyMcDougall.com Cal BRE#01156462
Sept. 10 East Bay Mudd
Back by popular demand, a 10piece Soul, Funk & R & B dance band
2016 Wed. Night Classic Car and Concert Schedule
6-8 p.m
Aug. 17 Car Show, only Aug. 31 Car Show, only
For information go to www.cityofclayton.org
ed
uc
d Re
Brentwood
$1,099,000
Trilogy at the Vineyards — 2,751 sq ft, Rafael model with upgrades galore. 2 bedrooms + office & 2.5 baths. 18 foot ceilings, plantation shutters, dark hardwood flooring and central vac. Nearly 1/3 acre property with outdoor kitchen, covered patio and 2.5 car garage on a cul-de-sac. Absolutely stunning!
Clayton
$619,000
Stranahan — Open, light filled floor plan including 3 beds adn 2.5 baths. Large kitchen w/island and breakfast bar plus dining room. Family room w/wood burning fireplace. Oversized bedrooms. New landscape with large lawn area & patio. Backs to small park. Kelly McDougall (925) 787-0448 KellyMcDougall.com Cal BRE#01156462
Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else* *Statistics based on Clayton/Concord and Contra Costa County Closed sales by volume (1/2014-12/31/2014). Data by Maxebrdi
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- Windermere Clayton!
Local author spins tales of historic Clayton
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
JENNIFER GLADDING-BUTTICCI Special to the Pioneer
Something bubbled up at the local Cup O’ Jo coffeehouse, and it came with a side of intrigue. Clayton resident Ellis Byrd spent many months there mixing together a book of mystery, perhaps some skepticism and good-old fashioned tales. “Legends and Lore of Clayton California, Folklore Stories” is now published, and the fun, exciting read quickly sold out at the Clayton Museum. Byrd has already published paranormal books, such as “What the Hell Was That?/The Trials and Tribulations of an English Ghost
Hunter in America,” and been involved in “My Ghost Story,” a cable TV show which premiered in 2010 and ran for six seasons. He also published “Never Trust a $20 Motel/Stories from the Road,” with unusual tales about snakes, bugs, lacking door locks and even smashed back windows. If anything, the man has run into interesting stories. The Clayton book includes ghosts, local legends, Miwok folklore, UFO accounts, poltergeists and one Bigfoot story. The Pioneer Inn/Clayton Hotel (1860s) sports stories of visitors having been touched by unseen spirits. The building currently houses a modern-day church. There is some great history and a little curiosity
www.LeighKlockHomes.com COMING SOON
This beautifully updated Dana Hills home with ideal end of court location boasts a desirable floor plan with 5 bedrooms and 3 baths, including one full bath and bedroom on first level. This home also offers a fabulous oversized lot with Mt. Diablo views, detached office/bonus room, and 3 car garage. Call for details.
SOLD
Keller Ridge Beauty 4 bedroom 2.5 baths. Gourmet kitchen with granite counters. Court location with pool and spa. Adjacent to open space. Offered at $849,000
about the death at the inn when a fire started that spread through town. The Eagle Saloon/Clayton Club (1873) always draws attention due to its history and possible hauntings. After all, the saloon has been serving patrons who love to drink and spin tales since 1873. The Keller House (1920s) is said to have Native American remains under it, with possible hauntings associated. Many locals have claimed that native ghosts may still be around. Moresi’s Chophouse (1857), formerly La Cocotte, appears to carry the sad tale of a young girl’s demise from a stray bullet. The building still has a blood stain that will not wash away, apparently covered by a rug. And odd occurrences
Pending Multiple Offers
925.212.5593
Beautiful Turn Key 4 bed, 2.5 bath, 2106 sq ft home in Bay Point. Chef's kitchen with granite, gas range, pendant lighting, spa-inspired master bath updated 2015. Offered at $469,000 www.1034SaintRaphaelDr.com
SOLD
Custom Alamo home with Craftsman style detailing, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2,481 sq ft of living space, hardwood floors throughout and gourmet kitchen. Offered at $975,000
Leigh Klock, Realtor CalBRE# 01874255
Senior Real Estate Specialist Accredited Staging Professional
Leigh@LeighKlock.com
Hollie Guillory Delivers You’ll Love it Guaranteed
If you purchase your next home with Hollie Guillory, move in, and if you don’t absolutely love it, Hollie will re-sell it for FREE*. I’m confident that working with me you’ll find the Perfect Home for you. That’s why I’m willing to work for FREE* if your new home isn’t everything you expected it to be. It’s Guaranteed. *For up to six months after close. There may be an obligation to pay a buyer’s agent commission and other closing costs, but you will pay Hollie nothing!
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August 12, 2016
occur today in the building – perhaps suggesting a ghost. Morgan Territory brings tales of Joaquin Murrieta, the Robin Hood of El Dorado, who perhaps buried treasure in the hills and ended up a legend of a man without a head. There are reports of seeing his ghost in the area. He was part of the five Joaquins responsible for cattle rustling, robberies and gold rush era murders. After death, his head was on display in a San Francisco saloon called the Gold Nugget until the earthquake of 1906. Clayton’s old town charm can still be touched, felt and perhaps sensed. One might stop for a moment, look down Main Street and imagine what Clayton was like 150 years ago. Horses and buggies, gun fights, ranches and an old town that miraculously had some buildings survive a mighty big fire. We can sit in buildings that have been here for that many years and imagine what happened there. Is that cold chill just a breeze or is it something more? “Legends and Lore of Clayton” Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer can be found at the Clayton Muse- ELMER GOMEZ (LEFT) JOINED ELLIS BYRD for a book signing at um, the Royal Rooster or online at the museum. Gomez was the original owner of one of the Amazon. A portion of the proceeds haunted houses mentioned in Byrd’s book. benefit the museum.
Relay for Life participants walk for cancer research PAT MIDDENDORF Special to the Pioneer
Nancy Salmon has a simple reason for joining Clayton’s 24hour Relay for Life: “We can’t stop until cancer is gone.” The teams walk all night to signify that cancer never sleeps, and they will not sleep either until this disease is eradicated and will never again end the life of a loved one. The event runs 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, to 10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 14, at Mt. Diablo Elementary School. The 13 Clayton teams have raised $108,000 in a few short months to help rid the world of this heinous disease, but they say, “That is not enough.” This will be 2nd Lt. Alex Treshler’s fifth year walking in the Clayton Relay. He is a 24hour walker who completes 25-30 miles each year with a 40-pound pack on his back. Although he will be going into active duty on Aug. 21, Treshler is spending his precious remaining time helping a cause that is so important to his family and to our community. Clayton Mayor Howard Gellar and Mt. Diablo Unified
School District superintendent Nellie Meyers will launch the celebration with brief remarks. Hero of Hope speaker Liana Meyers and Luminary Master of Ceremonies Karen Zaitz will describe how cancer has touched their lives and so many others. The real party begins when the 13 teams take to the track for the next 24 hours. They will sell food and dozens of fun items at their booths, while walkers record every lap with a bead on a lanyard from the Campers for a Cure Team. Visitors can also bid on 40 amazing raffle baskets. Participants can enjoy beach ball laps, water balloon chaos, glow stick laps and many other exciting, heartfelt moments. Maris Degener will lead a yoga session at 11 a.m. Popular DJ and MC Terry Newberry will be back for his sixth relay, bringing an ensemble of outstanding entertainment throughout the 24 hours. At 11:30 a.m., the band 5 by 5 takes the stage, followed by Fat Lizzy at 1:30 p.m. and Dan DeShara at 3 p.m. The gourmet food truck arrives at 4 p.m., and the band
E-regulars takes the stage at 4:30 p.m. The raffle closes at 7 p.m., and the winners are announced. The event takes on a more somber mood with the Luminaria Ceremony at 8:30 p.m. Mechele Fong fills the air with song as the track is lit up with decorated luminaria bags dedicated to all of the loved ones who have lost their battles to cancer. Anyone can purchase these bags for $10 at registration that day. The Luminaria Ceremony concludes with “A Thousand Winds,” sung by Don Richardson. The song, written as a tribute to Richardson’s father who died of cancer, is inspired by Martha Frye’s poem, “Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep.” The event slows down with a movie at 10 p.m., and the music plays low for the many walkers who don’t quit throughout the night. Things pick up the next morning with a wakeup lap and donuts at 7:30 a.m. The Fight Back Ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m., featuring cancer survivor Mike Fossan.
Guest Editorial
Help keep Clayton beautiful and minimize trash downtown
As a long-time resident of downtown Clayton, I’ve had the opportunity to watch the city grow and change for the better. From the growing popularity of the farmers market on Saturday mornings to the outdoor movies on Friday nights, I’ve witnessed many great additions to community life. Anyone who has been to a concert at the community park or played in a bocce league at the new Ipsen Family Bocce Courts will tell you that the popularity of our town is growing by leaps and bounds. A walk downtown on a summer night has become a
pleasant experience indeed. And there are lots of people enjoying all that our downtown has to offer. While this story is, for the most part, a positive one, there is one aspect of the downtown’s popularity that I’ve watched with growing concern. Those who walk through downtown regularly will notice an increase in trash and litter throughout the downtown corridor. Paper, food wrappers and empty plastic bottles are found in every corner of town during the week, not to mention the cigarette butts near the planter boxes. While I used to attribute
this problem to the concerts in the park and other group events, I’m noticing trash in the park on a regular basis. After giving it some thought, I decided this was an opportunity to reach out to the rest of the community and ask for help. I know we all care about our town Next time you think of it, remind your family and friends who visit to use the numerous trash and recycling cans throughout downtown. Ask them to help us keep Clayton beautiful and clean so we all can enjoy this special place. Jon Lopez Clayton resident
August 12, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 5
Higher density requirement heads for city approval TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
The City Council is expected to approve an amendment to the General Plan which will increase the required units per acre on parcels zoned Multi-family High Density from 15.1-20 units per acre to a flat 20. The change affects the six parcels next to the Town Center at High Streets and Old Marsh Creek Road, the old fire station parcel on Clayton Road and the adjacent lot that fronts onto Mitchell Canyon Road. The new density requirements will dramatically alter a condo development proposed for High Street and Marsh Creek Road. It was originally at 60 units, but developer Bill Jordan says many more units are being planned to comply with the new ordinance. “We are still working out the look of it all,” he said. The project on High Street
will move forward first, with the two parcels on Marsh Creek Road to follow later. The council approved the first reading of the Amendment and ordinances at the July 19 meeting. A second reading and approval is set for Aug. 16. State law requires that local governments have a general plan which includes a housing element that provides for existing and projected housing needs at all income levels. The Association of Bay Area Governments’ Regional Housing Needs Allocation for 2014-2023 assigns 141 affordable housing units to Clayton. Fifty-one must be for extremely low and very low income buyers, 25 for low income, 31 for moderate income and 34 for above moderate income. To meet the required 141 number, the city’s Inclusionary Housing Ordinance requires developers to set aside 10 per-
cent of the total units in the project with more than 10 units for affordable housing or to opt for one of three alternatives: construction of affordable units at another site, payment to the city of an “in-lieu” fee or dedicate land suitable for residential units to the city. As an incentive for developers to build more affordable housing, the law provides for a density bonus to increase the total units allowed in a project by 35 percent. According to Community Development director Mindy Gentry, the General Plan amendment and the ordinances will bring the city in compliance with state law. Failure to pass could result in heavy lawsuits and penalties.
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To read the city’s full Housing Element, go to http://ci.clayton.ca.us and click on the Government tab.
Three council seats up for grabs in November election
Are voters getting weary of seemingly endless, contentious, high octane political noise? If interest in the three open City Council seats is any indication, it would appear so. As of press time, three candidates have announced their intention to run in Nov. Julie Pierce will be seeking a seventh term and Jim Diaz will run for a second term. Third in the lineup is planning commissioner Tuija Catalano. Howard Geller will not run for a third term. If no one else steps forward before Aug. 17, the three will automatically take their
TUIJA CATALANO
JIM DIAZ
seat on the council. But, if you are a registered voter and Clayton resident, there is still time to pick up nomination papers from the Clayton City Clerk at City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton.
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Petitions must be filed in person with the city clerk and may include a 250 word statement. Election Day is Nov. 8. Polls will be open between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
New railroad exhibit tracks down Clayton Valley history STEVEN LANE Clayton Historical Society
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The Bay Point and Clayton (BP&C) Railroad Co. is making a return trip to the Clayton Historical Society Museum in the form of a new, updated exhibit opening Aug. 28. Unlike a 2013 railroad exhibit that included a broad view of multiple themes, this year’s exhibit will focus specifically on two small local railroad companies. It will interpret the once bucolic Clayton Valley landscapes the railroads rolled through, along with the changes and events that occurred in the area from 1907 to the present. BP&C was a little-known, nine-mile, private shortline railroad. Incorporated Aug. 29, 1906, by the Cowell Portland Cement Co., it hauled company shipments, provided common-carrier revenue service and passenger timetable service between Clyde and Bay Point (later Port Chicago/today’s Military
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Ocean Terminal Concord). The train traveled through the greater Clayton Valley alongside Mt. Diablo Creek, including today’s Concord Naval Weapons Station property proposed for parkland development by the East Bay Regional Park District. It also went to the former company town and community of Cowell, at the base of the Lime Ridge hills. Cowell was once the site of the largest Portland Cement manufacturing plant in the United States. Today all that remains is the road name, a smokestack monument, a water tank and a firehouse structure. The Cowell Portland Cement Co., producers of Mt. Diablo cement, had its own company-lettered and numbered subsidiary railroads: the standard-gauge Cowell Portland Cement Co. (CPC Co) RR and a unique, 42-inch narrowgauge limestone quarry railroad. They also had steam shovels on rails and a traction railroad. Images of operations in the Lime Ridge quarries still exist, as well as some rare images of cement plant railroad operations, plant machinery and equipment prior to it being
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USING THE POWER OF IMAGINATION, the Bay Point and Clayton Railroad stops by the Clayton Museum for a new exhibit opening Aug. 28.
auctioned and scrapped to make way for the Walnut Way housing subdivision – today’s Walnut Country/The Crossings. On Sunday, April 2, 1939, the Northern California Railroad Club hosted a rare “Steam and Juice” excursion to the Cowell Portland Cement Plant. Sacramento Northern (electric railway before BART) railcars were pulled on nine miles of BP&C track, under BP&C
CLAYTON DOG PARK Being more than 140 years old in “dog years” (that’s 20 years to you and me), the K-9 Coalition is in need of “new puppies” to aid in management of this free public park off east Marsh Creek Road. Help is also needed with weed abatement and the periodic spreading of wood chips. Under the terms of its creation, this is not a city-managed park although the city does provide plastic bags and empties the trash
sultation and needs assessment to personalized tours, right through to weighing the options, reviewing the contract and moving in. The staff is eager to share their knowledge and provide expert guidance on what to look for and questions to ask. At the same time, they are sensitive to the deep emotional aspects involved in caring for a loved one as she or he ages. To help better understand this process, Baca became a certified administrator with the state Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing. She is continuously receiving additional training and can provide clients with current Title 22 regulations. In addition to helping find the right home for your loved
cans. Please support our fourlegged friends by contacting the Clayton K-9 Coalition to help at 925-672-9710 or www.claytondogpark.org. In 1995, the Clayton Community Services Commission conducted a survey that listed interest in a potential off-leash dog park. With 61 percent support for such a park, in 2000 the city granted approval of the current dog park site, agreeing to install fencing, benches, a table and waste receptacles in exchange for volunteer maintenance of the site. In June 2005, a group of local residents (the Clayton K9 Coalition) raised funds to
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at 7 p.m. Sept. 1 at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Suggested donation is $5 per adult. “Rolling Through the Clayton Valley – A Look Back 110 Years after Incorporation” opens 2 p.m. Aug. 28. It runs through December and includes a railroad gift shop. The Clayton Museum is at 6101 Main St., Clayton. Admission is free.
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amazing time as we celebrate, honor and remember those in the fight against this horrific disease.
steam locomotive power, to and from the cement plant. The event provided a memorable day for many railfans, with several beautiful photos surviving for us to view. Steve Lane, a 43-year Clayton resident and local railroad historian, will give an overview of the Bay Point and Clayton Railroad Co., the Cowell Portland Cement Co. Railroad and the Clayton Valley landscapes these railroads rolled through
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bring potable water to the park at a cost of $15,000. The Clayton Dog Park has been a huge success, offering pet owners a place to socialize their pets as well as their “owners.” With the benefit of various Eagle Scout projects, it now has several shade trellises and trees, plus new signage and a separate fenced area for smaller dogs.
PLANNING COMMISSION With two planning commissioners reaching the end of their term limits and a third not reapplying, the City Council interviewed more than a half dozen applicants and appointed three first-time commissioners: Carl Wolfe, Bassam Altwal and William Gall.
CLAYTON HISTORY Walking through the Clayton Road pedestrian tunnel aligns your footsteps to inhabitants of our past. The Miwok Indians lived here for thousands of years, adjacent to Diablo and Mitchell creeks with their abundance of steelhead trout and salmon. In 1912, the Keller Ranch, then known as “Casa del Sierra,” was built at this site. There were cattle, sheep and olive trees. The Keller barn used to be located near the Keller Ranch house and was used as a model for the Clayton Community Library. It is hoped someday the city will use the Keller Ranch area behind the library as a cultural center. Direct comments to Howard Geller at Hgeller@ci.clayton.ca.us.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517
TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor
Condos offer affordability and convenience
S TAFF W RITERS : Peggy Spear, Pamela Wiesendanger, Jay Bedecarré
C ORRESPONDENTS : Kara Navolio, John T. Miller We remember Jill Bedecarré
PIONEER INFO CONTACT US
Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 www.ClaytonPioneer.com
Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send School News to
schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com 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 resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have
priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters must be submitted via E-mail.
CIRCULATION as of Sept. 2014 Total circulation of the Clayton Pioneer is 5,500 to ZIP code 94517, all delivered by US Mail to homes, businesses and post office boxes. We cannot start or stop delivery to individual addresses. This must be done directly through the Post Office. The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,500 in Concord by carrier. Papers are delivered once a month on a Friday morning near the end of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please call us or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon.
SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.
lYNNe FReNCH
REAL ANSWERS
Q: Why would I buy a condo instead of a singlefamily home? A: They are an appealing way to enter the housing market if the cost of a single-family home is out of reach. Condos are especially popular among single homebuyers, empty nesters and first-time home buyers in high-priced housing markets. Some people, such as senior retirees and active young people, choose to buy a condo even if they could afford a single-family home. Unlike a house, condos offer a lifestyle that is free of yard work and exterior maintenance and repairs. Many condominium communities also offer amenities such as exercise rooms, tennis courts and swimming pools that buyers might be unable to afford if they purchased a single-family home.
Q: Is my garage important in getting my home ready for sale? A: As I have expressed before, staging is an important element in getting a home sold for top dollar in the least amount of time. Staging is a great way to be sure your home appeals to the masses. While staging spaces
within your home is crucial, many sellers often neglect one important area: the garage. Storage is one of the biggest benefits of a garage. Buyers consistently point to its usefulness as the main criteria used to rate a garage. A cluttered or unorganized garage can send the wrong message to a potential buyer, making it impossible to visualize all the space can offer. If you absolutely have to use some of the space for storage purposes, be sure to keep everything neat and organized. This can subconsciously imply that you take better than average care with your home. It may also lend a feeling of newness to the property. Getting your garage in top shape begins with removing all the junk that has collected over the years and organizing everything on clean shelves. Vacuum up any dirt and do away with spider webs and bugs. It is also important to make sure there is plenty of light. If there are windows in the garage, be sure to clean them. Make sure the batteries are fresh and everything is working properly with the garage door. Keeping your garage presentable can be the difference between getting a terrific offer and seeing buyers move on to a competing home. Taking the time to clean and organize will do wonders for making the space more appealing to potential buyers. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
Officer safety always a top concern
CHRIS weNzel
BEHIND
THE
BADGE
If you are watching the news lately, you know that there has been a dramatic increase in police officer fatalities. These are the unfortunate situations that occur in our professionl, as we all know that the job is inherently dangerous.
Men and woman in uniform do their best to perform professionally and are dedicated to providing service to their community with the hope that today will not be the day where conditions are life and death. This last month in Clayton, we had two incidents where the situation escalated to the point where officers had to restrain the subjects. Both times, the officers were slightly injured but both are back to duty. No two situations are the same and even in a place like Clayton, where the crime rate is very low, officers need to be vigilant. Complacency is dangerous in our profession. We need to determine quickly
what type of situation we are involved in and never let our guard down. As I have said in the past, we do the best we can with the resources we have. One thing is ingrained in all officers as they attend the police academy: “Your No. 1 goal is to come home at the end of a shift.” Otherwise, our department has been active but a bit slower than last month. We did see an increase in shoplifting crimes in the business community, but all in all it was business as usual. Phone scams are continuing, with the top five being PG&E delinquent bills, loanrelated scams, free vacations, political calls where surveys are
done gathering info in return for a prize and, lastly, the IRS saying you are delinquent in payment. If you are not sure if the call is legitimate, tell them you will call them back. Look up the organization they claim to be from, but don’t call back the number on your phone or the number they provide. If they say it impossible to call back, then hang up. If you have not requested information about a company or service, always be leery of calls from them.
Chris Wenzel is Chief of Police of Clayton. Send questions and comments to chris.wenzel@claytonpd.com or call (925) 673-7350
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Directory of Advertisers
Business Services
Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . .672-8717 Construction and Trades
Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700
Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144
Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 Italian Heritage Tile & Stone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9000 J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .872-3049
Mr. Fix-it Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0347 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dining and Entertainment
Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440
Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Education
Clayton Community School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0388 Events
Bradburn Dentistry – Health Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .info@bradburndentistry.com Clayton Community Church – Derby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.claytoncc.com Concerts in the Grove – City of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.cityofclayton.org Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . .800-949-3276 Financial, Insurance and Legal Services
Aragon, Al - Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-697-5000 Geraghty, Colleen – Prudential . . . . . . . . . . . . .305-0321
Littorno, Richard – The Law Office of . . . . . . . .432-4211
Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . .672-2300 Funerals
Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Health and Wellness
Harvest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-2305 Home and Garden
Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955
Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-5609 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243
Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055
Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services
The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Photography
Rochellez Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-677-4170 Real Estate and Mortgage Services
Bennett, Nancy – Keller Williams . . . . . . . . . . .606-8400
Clayton Fair Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-0324
French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . .672-8787 Guillory, Hollie – Alain Pinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-8729
Hayes, Diane and Bill – Better Homes Realty .890-4701 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593
Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . .305-9099
Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . .567-6170
Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness
Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301-7496
East Bay Regional Park District . . . . . . . .888-327-2757
MDSA - Soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .788-2923 Senior Services
All About Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-903-4947 Oakmont of Concord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .234-9576 Services, Other
ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029
Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . .682-4518 Travel
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August 12, 2016
Expanded freshman class brings CVCHS enrollment over 2,200 Clayton Valley Charter High School began is fifth year as a charter this week with a freshman class that includes about 150 more students than in the past couple of decades as CVCHS seeks to partially meet the demand of families wanting placement in the school. For the past several years, Clayton Valley Charter has had a lengthy waitlist of students wanting to get into the area’s only charter high school. In March, the CVCHS governing board greenlighted the administration’s request to increase enrollment “up to the capacity of the facilities,” citing a need for additional students to keep the charter’s budget balanced. This year’s student body is expected to number 2,200. Second-year principal Jeff Eben says the freshman class of 2020 will have between 600 and 650 students. Another class of this size will not happen until this 2020 group graduates. To meet this additional student count, the school freed up a half dozen classrooms that had been used for other purposes. Over the summer, they also made a number of technology enhancements for faculty and students. There had been some discussion about split lunch periods to accommodate the larger student body, but that idea was not implemented. The larger enrollment does not impact which division Clayton Valley Charter sports teams
are placed in the North Coast Section in 2016-17, even though it surpasses the 2,000 student threshold. Commissioner Gil Lemmon says NCS has adopted a new division placement policy in several sports that primarily take competitive factors into account when placing teams. The two-time State finalist CVCHS football team will be playing in the top NCS playoff division this fall against the likes of De La Salle, Monte Vista, Antioch and Pittsburg. In other sports such as cross country, tennis and soccer, enrollment will still be used for school placement. Lemmon said that CVCHS’s 2015-16 enrollment figure of 1,985 was used for this year’s placement. The school has moved to the new 12-school Diablo Athletic League this year, with its teams matched against the six other former Diablo Valley Athletic League schools it has been with for the past four years plus Miramonte, Las Lomas, Campolindo, Alhambra and Acalanes. Early this month, the school worked out an arrangement with the city of Concord to use parking spaces at the Daniel Boatwright Sports Fields below the Cal State East Bay Concord Campus near the corner of Alberta Way and Pine Hollow Road for additional student parking. Although the increased enrollment is primarily among non-driving freshmen, the school says the spaces will help keep surface street parking around the campus available for residents.
The school will pay the city $850 a month during the school year for the sublease. CVCHS will provide crossing guards across Ygnacio Valley Road each morning and afternoon, as well as monitor the parking area a minimum of three times daily. CVCHS also intends to use a supplemental parking lot at the rear of the school off Academy Road to accommodate parking demand for early A-period students, who typically have an earlier dismissal
For many District IV families, the season is changing from the fun-filled days of summer to the exciting adventures of back-to-school. The days are filled with anticipation as students get assigned new teachers and embark to new schools and classrooms. For most, this is a joyous time. But for some, it is wrought with stress and anxiety. School supplies and clothes can be a heavy financial burden and lead to difficult choices for local households. To lessen this strain, numerous public agencies and
non-profits are providing assistance and supplies. Volunteer & Emergency Services Team in Action (VESTIA) annually hosts Project Readyto-Learn, which provides backpacks full of supplies to Contra Costa County students in kindergarten through 12th grade. VESTIA was created in partnership with the Contra Costa Employment & Human Services Department VESTIA distributed more than 1,200 backpacks in 2015, with many going to the county’s foster youth. A similar effort occurs at
the Monument Crisis Center in Concord, where last year they distributed 1,400 backpacks during a large community event in mid-August. The Assistance League of Diablo Valley, another organization close to my heart, annually conducts Operation School Bell to provide new school clothes and uniforms to students. Since 1994, Operation School Bell has helped more than 50,000 children. Staff in my office has continually participated in Operation School Bell and they are looking forward to doing so again this year.
and to fulfill the school’s vision that every child lives in a world where they feel safe, loved and celebrated in a positive learning environment. Sarah Lovick, the Link Crew leaders and the school counselors host amazing activities at Freshman Transition Week. This group of dedicated staff and volunteers provides support and encouragement as the freshmen become proud Ugly Eagles. The transition to high school is key because freshmen are the largest at-risk population in schools. Consider these national statistics: • More students struggle in ninth grade than at any other grade.
• Most students who end up dropping out of high school fail at least 25 percent of their ninth-grade courses, while only 8 percent of high school graduates experienced the same difficulty. • Low attendance during the first 30 days of freshman year is a strong indicator that a student will drop out.
JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
schedule to spread out the afternoon traffic load. In June, the CVCHS board ratified a three-year contract with the Clayton Valley Education Association giving the teachers (and thus all school personnel) a three percent raise retroactive to the beginning of 2016. Long-time teacher Kipp Penovich has left the school and collaborative education codepartment chair Robin Soto is currently replacing him as the teacher’s union rep.
New principals taking over at Mt. Diablo, Highlands elementary schools
When students get dropped off for the first day of school Aug. 22 at Highlands and Mt. Diablo elementary schools they’ll be carrying backpacks and a certain amount of anxiety wondering what the new school year holds for them. Probably having their own amount on angst will be the new principals taking over each school after their summertime appointments. Dawn Edwards is the new principal at Mt. Diablo, replacing Clayton resident Irene Keenan who just retired after being in charge of the local school for the past six years. Edwards was a vice principal in the Oakley
Union School District before taking her current post in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. Ryan Sheehy has moved over from his vice principal’s job at Concord High to take over the top administrative duties at Highlands. Dr. Vicki Eversole was the previous principal there. The two local schools are among six MDUSD elementary schools with new principals. El Dorado Middle and College Park High also will have new principals for the 2015-16 school year, according to superintendent Dr. Nellie Meyer. -Jay Bedecarre
Groups help students, families gear up for school
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Schools
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
dAVId lINzeY VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE
Clayton Valley Charter High School is excited to begin another Back to School month, celebrating year five. We have observed an incredible transformation of the school and are fortunate for the teachers, coaches, counselors and parent volunteers who are an instrumental part of our community. CVCHS sponsors numerous events and activities for new and returning students. Each is designed to build a connection among students
KAReN MITCHoFF
COUNTY
SUPERVISOR
It’s inspiring to see local organizations meetings the needs of our community with such ingenuity, as even simple projects can have great impact.
Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to karen.mitchoff@bos.cccounty.us
CVCHS assists freshman in making key transitions
rather than wondering if they’re going to fit in. Link Crew’s main goal is to address the fundamental needs of every student in order to understand the social, extracurricular and academic climate of CVCHS. Over the four-day process, new students participate in academic and social orientation activities to promote student safety, a sense of wellness, better communication among peers and, more importantly, to encourage students to think about the path they will take during the next four years and beyond.
CVHCS offers a unique transition program that provides a structure to connect upperclassmen to underclassmen. It includes effective training and the necessary support to make the relationships David Linzey is executive direcmeaningful and allow new stu- tor of CVCHS. Contact him dents to focus on school, David.linzey@claytonvalley.org
August 12, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Senior year is no time to rest For seniors, the last year of high school is a monumental time. Many want to celebrate this milestone by taking it easy and skating through senior year. Unfortunately, they’ll need to scrap those plans if they intend to go straight into a four-year college. Senior year, especially the first semester, is brutal. In lISA SPeNCeR addition to regular schoolwork, COLLEGE BOUND seniors also have to apply for college – and that process entails an immense amount of where they want to go for college. Ideally, building the colwork. First, students must decide lege list should be done and
finalized before senior year begins. But I can tell you from experience with clients, that is not always the case. This can be a soul-searching and timeconsuming process, and those who wait until the last minute will not have the time to properly investigate and select appropriate colleges. Once the list is in good shape, students need to research the deadlines and requirements for each school. Take note of how many personal statements and supplemental essays will be needed. Check to see if you need letters
CVCHS welcomes new instrumental music director Lydia Lim will be directing the marching band, symphonic band and orchestra as well as competitive, audition-only, wind ensemble and jazz band at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Lim earned her bachelor’s of music and master’s in music education from USC. She most recently worked with the awardwinning Foothill High School music program in Pleasanton, where they became one of the most awarded and successful marching bands in the state. LYDIA LIM She has been working work with CVCHS’s marching band “Pirates of the over the summer, preparing a from Caribbean.” The Instrumental new field show featuring music Music Boosters have much
Derby, from page 1
Running concurrently with the Derby will be the Custom Car Show. Over 200 custom, retro, foreign, restored or rebuilt cars will be judged for a variety of trophies, which will be presented in a Parade of Winning Cars at 1 p.m. The
cars will be on display from 9 a.m. to noon. These free events usually draw over 2000 visitors to Clayton for fun activities, food, face painting and bouncy houses. This year there will also be a Sole Hope Project
more in store this year, including a benefit concert, dinner and live auction Oct. 7 and more local performance opportunities. The boosters are also raising funds for much-needed instruments as well as a spring trip to Boston for music students to attend educational clinics and perform at the acclaimed Berklee School of Music. The boosters have lofty goals and aspirations for the young, passionate musicians and look forward to sharing beautiful music with the community.
For more information, visit www.claytonbands.org.
of recommendation or a resume for any of the schools. Be sure to order test scores and have them sent to the colleges on your list, and have your school submit your transcripts. That is a lot to do, and you haven’t even begun to fill out applications for colleges, scholarships and financial aid. But don’t expect high school teachers to cut you some slack. To prevent overload, seniors should start filling out applications and brainstorming essays now, before school gets too crazy. Younger students can build a college list in junior year and start crafting essays in the late summer. Common App and UC applications open on Aug. 1, and their essay prompts come out even earlier. This gives students the chance to get a jump-start on the process. In previous years, the one thing you didn’t have to worry about at the beginning of 12th grade was the financial aid form because it wasn’t available until Jan. 1. But a new process has been implemented, and it will be live Oct. 1. Though this is great news in many ways, right now it means one more confusing application that will need to be filled out – ideally at the same time students are submitting college applications. My advice is to plan ahead. Do all you can in junior year and in the summer. And good luck to the Class of 2017.
Lisa Spencer is an independent college and career advisor and the owner of Next Phase. For more information, go to www.nextphase.net. You can reach her at lisa@next-phase.net or 925-726booth. Stop by to learn how 1209. this one small group of individuals is making a difference in lives in Africa by providing hand crafted shoes. The first 200 entrants in both the Derby and the Car Show will receive a good bag and free t-shirt. To pre-register for either event, go to: www.claytoncc.com and click on the Events page.
Captain Grammar Pants
Are you familiar with “the hoi polloi”? HoI PolloI (Greek, “the many”) is often (mistakenly) used to refer to the upper classes and, by extension, people acting above themselves or their stations in life. However, it really means the great unwashed masses or, in contemporary language, the 99 percent. It is considered a derogatory term. worse, because HoI means “the,” referring to “the hoi polloi” is akin to saying “the the many.” This problem should remind you of “au jus sauce” at restaurants. It is, however, accepted usage to use “hoi polloi” as a single unit, yet the hoi polloi will look askance at you if you say hoi polloi without the “the” in front.
Page 9
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Main Street, Clayton, CA
Free Family Fun
• Derby Races for Children Ages 7 to 14 • Free T-Shirts to First 200 Participants and Trophies to Winners
Classic Car Show Will Feature 200 Cars
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Sports
Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 12, 2016
Dana Hills wins another City Meet swim championship in historic 50th edition of summer classic at Concord pool JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
In the 50th year of the Concord City Swimming Championships both Clayton teams, Dana Hills and Oakhurst, enjoyed success at the three-day meet last weekend. The Otters captured their 24th championship in the past 25 years while the Orcas won another sportsmanship trophy, had their bestever A Division finish in fifth and also matched their highest City Meet team finish when they repeated as third in B Division. The final team tally saw Dana Hills amass 268.5 more points runner-up Forest Park Flyers from Concord with Walnut Country third in A Division scoring, the same 1-2-3 from a year ago. Oakhurst moved into fifth place as the fourth through sixth teams were separated by only 6.5 points. Forest Park took the B title with Dana Hills second and Oakhurst Country Club third, also a repeat of last year’s results. Dana Hills and Forest Park dominated top awards at the
50th City Meet with the Otters taking both best relay honors and six A Division high point swimmers. Forest Park had four high point athletes. Both Forest Park and DHST set three meet records with only seven meet standards broken this year. The Orcas repeated as Team Sportsmanship Award winners for the third year in a row. It is the sixth time since 2004 the Clayton club has earned that trophy. The rec swim season ends this weekend at the 56th annual Contra Costa County Meet at Acalanes High in Lafayette. Dana Hills has been in the top five of the last three county meets while Forest Park won the B Division in 2015.
ONLY 7 MEET RECORDS FALL Karlie Seastrand of Dana Hills set a city mark in the 11-12 butterfly beating her own record from the year before. Anthony Vines also bettered his own 1518 100 fly city mark. The third DHST record went to Sophia Miller in the 11-12 individual medley. A Division high-point win-
Photo courtesy oakhurst orcas
FIVE JUST MAY BE KAITLYN SHEFFIELD’S LUCKY NUMBER. The oakhurst swimmer took fifth in the 13-14 A division individual medley, backstroke and butterfly finals at the Concord City Meet last weekend as the orcas were fifth in A division and third in B division at the 50th edition of the meet.
Jay Bedecarre photo
DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM’S SIX AND UNDER BOYS WIN BOTH ITS RELAYS in the 50th Concord City Meet last weekend at Concord Community Pool. The youngest otters quartet, from left, Branden Fahey, Preston Marks, Gio Castaneda and Rhys d’Arcy were first in the 100 freestyle and medley relays. All four boys made it to the 25-yard free finals as well. Coach Heidi McMillan was pleased with her six and under group, which also included Cooper laSage, when they were relay winners at the prestigious woodlands Invitational last month.
ners for DHST were Rebecca Adent (6 and under girls), Karlie Seastrand (11-12 girls), Preston Marks (six and under boys), Colton Seastrand (9-10 boys), Joshua Ewert (11-12 boys) and Ryan Levy (15-18 boys). Levy was a high point swimmer for the fourth year in a row. Patrick MacDonald (six and under boys), Eric Catalano (9-10 boys) and Jaden Miller (14-14 boys) were Dana Hills B division high pointers. The Otters 13-14 girls medley relay of Paige Landstrom, Caela Hetherton, Logan Sherman and Isabella Samardzic and 15-18 boys free relay with Levy,
Vines, Sean Thomas and Shawn Broussard were named outstanding relays of the meet. As usual, the deep Otters team dominated City Meet relays by winning 13 of the 24 relays and taking five seconds with no Otter team lower than fourth. Relays score double points in the team scoring. Besides the six high point swimmers Dana Hills got first place A Division finishes from Vines, Abbie Kubota, Landstrom, Tyler Foley and Sophia Miller. Also placing in the top three in A Division finals were Cami McGee, Molly Boland, Stella Marks, Thomas, Avery
D’Arcy, Gabi Mancini, Samardzic, Braden Foley, Summer Claibourne, Clayton Seastrand, Thomas Borbely, Scott McMillan, Rhys D’Arcy, Camille Cline, Gio Castaneda, Abbey Keller, John Parker, Jerron Miller, Grant Whittlinger, Kai Parker, Kyle Hetherton and Logan Sherman. Toshio Longley, Jimmy Albert, Grace DeSeelhorst, Wyatt Parker, Catalano and MacDonald won B division finals. Jaden Miller, Nicholas Covaia, Jordan Frost, Madison Macpherson, Jemma Jacques, Jonathan Keller, Jake Coppa, Jasmine Jacques and Alayna
Cloven were top three in B finals for Dana Hills. Oakhurst’s Grace Smith was second and Halley Brown and Shane Jacoby third in A Division races for the Orcas. Coach Jasmine Castillo’s B Division third-place squad with Abby McCormick, Kiera Jarvis, Nolan Degener, Audrey Betz, Henry Smith and Christian O’Brien won championships. Brook Halliday, Carolyn Silva, Khloe Jarvis, Luke Taylor and Grayson McDonald were finalist runners-up and Chase Wilcox two a pair of thirds in finals.
Diablo FC teams keep busy near and far this summer
Photos courtesy diablo FC
DIABLO FC 05 PREMIER GIRLS ARE RANKED IN THE TOP 15 in the United States among under 11 teams as well as No. 2 in Northern California. They won the San Francisco evolution Cup and were runners-up in the California Cup in their most recent tournaments. Coach Miguel Gonzalez’ team includes, from left, Amanda Monohan, Courtney wagner, Indigo whitely, emily Beeson, lil Bailey, Jackie Bellamy, erika Upson, Alyssa Pringle, Juliannah Colchico and Grace dausses. Not pictured, Ananda walker, Gonzalez and assistant coach Kris Colchico.
THE NEWLY-FORMED DIABLO FC 2000 NPL GIRLS TEAM has vaulted all the way to No. 4 in National U16 girls rankings. They dominated the super group bracket in the US Club Soccer Regionals this summer, taking first with three wins and one draw. The 2000 girls allowed only one goal in four games as the defense and UC Berkeley commit goalkeeper Amanda zodikoff controlled the action. Coach zach Sullivan’s team lost the championship game in a penalty kick shootout to host davis legacy in the davis legacy College Showcase. diablo FC 2000 team includes, from left, Sophie Harrington, emily Kaleal, Marianna Giovannetti, Sophia Runte, Jenae Packard, Kylie Schneider, Samantha Götz, Stephenie Neys, zodikoff, Cassie Bizicki, Holly Gallagher, Jessie Verderame, Sullivan, Kylie zentner, Santana Merryfield and Katie Hollister. Not pictured are Katelyn Beasley, Colette Cardinale and Catie logan.
THE NEWLY-FORMED DIABLO FC 2003 NPL GIRLS TEAM started off with a championship in the third annual Jenna Betti Memorial Tournament. The team has a busy summer and fall schedule capped by the Surf Cup in San diego on the Thanksgiving weekend. diablo FC 2003 includes, front row from left, Kierra east, Kelly Adams, Megan Gherlone, Isabelle Barber, Hailey lopez; middle row, Rylie Velez, Kylee Gregory, Amaia espinal, Haley dunham, Izzy Brandt, Natalie Haro, Peyton wooten, Hannah Tealdi; back row, dena Betti (tournament director) and head coach Scott Alexander. Not pictured, Helena Ban, Gigi Betti and lilly Underwood.
DIABLO FC 2003 NPL BOYS traveled to the prestigious Surf Cup in San diego last weekend and won their U14 bracket before being blanked 2-0 by Juventus in the semi-finals Monday. Veteran coach Richard weiszmann is leading this Academy team. The diablo FC 03 boys include, from left, Sebastian Ramirez, Jacob oledan, Max Ramirez, Alex wohlford, Juanpablo Hernandez, Jonathan wence, Marco Friio, Bryce Raizes, Caden Crabtree, Marcus Stich, Isaac Morfin, Gabriel Perez, Iker Morales, Adrian Rodriquez, Kevin Murguia and weiszmann. Not pictured, Andre Vojtenyl and Julian Montes.
August 12, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com everything spirit for the Otters including cheering at meets, helping at socials and assisting coaches with the eight and under swimmers. “She was a great asset to our team both in and out of the pool,” McMillan added. Kelly, who won the Devil Mountain Pentathlon B Division 9-10 title several years ago, also has played fall AYSO soccer. She is planning on running cross country this fall at CVCHS and also is considering playing soccer and swimming in high school. She also enjoys reading, movies and taking bike rides around Dana Hills. Looking ahead Kelly wants to become a surgeon or veterinarian.
Athlete Spotlight
Emma Kelly
Age: 14 Team: Dana Hills
Like so many summer recreation swimmers Emma Kelly sets a goal each season of meeting the time standards to qualify for the annual season-ending Contra Costa County swim meet. A member of the Dana Hills Swim Team for the past eight years along with her twin siblings Ian and Devin, Kelly was never quite able to achieve that goal. That is, until early this month at the Blackhawk Last Chance Meet where she swam 35.76 in the 50-yard breaststroke, nearly one-half second under
Sport: Swimming
the 13-14 qualifying standard of 36.23 so she can compete at the 56th annual County Meet this Saturday at Acalanes High School in Lafayette three days after she starts her freshman year in the medical academy at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Otters head coach Heidi McMillan says, “Emma never misses workout and always works so hard. She has loved coaching the Otter pups, our learn-to-swim program for two-year-olds.” Kelly is a member of the DHST “spirit squad” which does
The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Emma and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
Clayton Valley Charter fall sports teams prepping for new league DAL tennis matches begin Sept. 22, girls volleyball Sept. 27 with water polo and cross counSix fall sports are starting up try league play starting Sept. 28. in the next week for Clayton Valley Charter and other local high BUSY FOOTBALL SEASON school teams competing for the Tim Murphy is in the first first time in the new Diablo Ath- week of practice in his fifth sealetic League. son at the helm of CVCHS Practice for CVCHS football football. The Ugly Eagles have began this week as the Ugly been in the State Bowl Game the Eagles prep for their opening past two years and this higher game Aug. 26 in Gonsalves Sta- profile has also come with a dium against Reed High of much tougher regular-season Sparks, NV. schedule in 2016, likely the All fall sports will be under- strongest a Clayton Valley footway with pre-season training by ball team has ever faced. Aug. 15. The new league offers After the game against lots of challenges and opportu- Reed the team travels to nities as the 12 teams have been Southern California for the split into two divisions based on Honor Bowl Sept. 3 in Mission competitive balance with the Viejo facing Helix High. They winners of each division earning automatic North Coast Section See Fall Sports, pg 17 placement. JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Jason Rogers photo
SENIOR RYAN FISCHER (69) will be counted on along with his fellow guard Jack Fouts to clear the way for backs in the run-oriented Clayton Valley Charter offense. An all-league guard last year, Fischer has added about 10 pounds this off-season as the eagles face their most ambitious ever football schedule beginning Aug. 26 hosting Reed High from Sparks, NV.
Clayton Valley Little League all-star teams wrap up play at District 4 play
BASEBALL 12 year olds: Carson Baker, Mason Bamberger, Joey Dern, Zander Friedman, Aiden Hopfner, Jeremy LaGrave, Zak Rath, Noah Robinow, Jack Skow, Scott Tomaszewicz, Drew Warner, Ian Wright; alternates-Ian Alexander, James Canclini. 11 year olds: Ryan Buddle, Ryan Cuddy, Cody DeMartini,
Jake Dern, Casey Forester, Dylan Gentile, Dane Jorgensen, Gabe Lauricella, Daniel Sanna, Colton Seastrand, Jake Solis, Dominic Vines, Ryan Ward; alternateCorbin Clifton. 10 year olds: Antonio Barragan, Tyler Brown, Jack Dress, Aiden Hendricks, Ben Hosler, Jackson Huffman, Nick Johnson, Nate Leuhs,
Owen Luedtke, Nate Mahoney, Joey Postlethwaite, Bennett Shuey, Cayne Terry; alternates-Landon Johnson, Derek Townsend.
SOFTBALL 11/12 year olds: Katelyn Anderson, Haley Brown, Makaella Cherepy, Grace Geisler, Sophia Miller, Taylor Nunez, Katie Pike, Ella Potts,
Natalie Pursche, Clarice Reinwald, Karlie Seastrand, Emily Storn, Julianna Vandal. 9/10 year olds: Cassidy Baker, Sofia Carmichael, Damia Glaze, Lydia Lo, Jessie Lovett, Gianna Orozco, Julia Pauline, Anja Perreira, Mikaela Pike, Molly Reynolds, Isabella Scolini, Layla Solis, Alyssa Teixeira.
Page 11
CV Little League alumnus Mike Miller plays for Boston Red Sox JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
His first experience didn’t last long but you can never take away the fact that Clayton Valley Little League and De La Salle High School grad Mike Miller made it to the major leagues and played for the Boston Red Sox just before the Major League Baseball All-Star game break. The Concord native was called up June 27 and was in at second base that evening against the Tampa Bay Rays in the eighth inning for a game the BoSox lost 13-7. In the ninth inning Miller got his first MLB at bat and grounded out to shortstop. He took over at second base the previous inning for former American League MVP and rookie of the year Dustin Pedroia. His journey from Clayton Valley Little League to the majors includes time at De La Salle, Cuesta College and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and then minor league stops at Lowell (MA), Greenville (SC), Salem (VA), Portland (ME), Surprise (AZ) and Pawtucket (RI). The infielder was with his AAA Pawtucket Red Sox on a bus ride to Rochester, NY June 26 when his manager Kevin Boles told him to check his email. The email contained information he had dreamed about since he was a young kid growing up in Concord. Miller recalls the moment. “We were on the bus to Rochester and our manager emailed me. He didn’t want to make a big commotion on the bus, so he told me to check my email and said ‘Keep it quiet. Don’t show a lot of emotion right now, but congratulations.’ And he sent me the itinerary for my flight [to meet up with the Red Sox]. It was cool to see.” The Red Sox had purchased his contract and he needed to get to St. Petersburg, Florida to join up with the “big club” for a three-game series against the Rays that started Monday night. Wasting no time Miller caught a “4:30 [a.m. ET] shuttle to the airport. Didn’t get any sleep with the calls and excitement, first time coming up here, just a whirlwind, but it was fun.” The versatile infielder was drafted in the ninth round of the 2012 MLB Draft after his senior season at Cal Poly. He was the Mustangs leading hitter at .354, topping the team in hits and runs and had a 14-game hitting streak for the 36-20 Mustangs. He was first-team all-Big West shortstop. He had batted .306 as a junior before his breakout senior season. At De La Salle he was second-team all-Bay Valley Athletic League as a 2007 senior batting
MIKE MILLER
.299 for the league and North Coast Section champion Spartans and coach Eric Borba. Miller wasn’t a heralded prospect coming up through the Red Sox minor leagues since beginning his professional career in 2012 at Lowell in the Class A short season. He had never been on the 40-man roster until his promotion to the Major Leagues. Miller was with the Red Sox for the three-game series against the Rays before being optioned back to Pawtucket on July 1, before he had a chance to play in legendary Fenway Park. On July 4 he was outrighted to Pawtucket and taken off the 40-man roster. He’s batting .251 in 53 games for Pawtucket this year playing at second, third and shortstop. “Dream come true,” said Miller. “Wasn’t expecting it at all. So to get the opportunity to come up and play at the highest level, it really is a dream come true. And to play with the guys in the clubhouse — I started my Red Sox career with [AL AllStar] Mookie Betts in Lowell, so it’s cool to catch up to some of those guys and see them a few years later is great.”
Watch local Olympians in Rio
NBC is having near wallto-wall coverage of the Olympic Games from Rio Aug. 3-21. Using its stable of broadcast and cable networks NBCUniversal will present 6,755 hours of programming for the Games.
Men’s 3-Meter Diving
Anticipated to be on NBC Monday, Aug. 15, 11:15 a.m. Preliminaries Tuesday, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. Semi-finals Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2 p.m. Medal finals
Synchronized Swimming
Scheduled for USA and NBC Sports Network Sunday, Aug. 14, 7 a.m. Duets Free Routine Monday, Aug. 15, 7 a.m. Duets Technical Routine Tuesday, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. Medal Free Routine finals Information subject to change. Be sure to verify all times and stations. NBCOlympics.com
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Sports
Devil Mountain Pentathlon rewards versatility in Clayton rec swimmers JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Local swimmers tuned up for the two big August endof-season meets by taking part in the 22nd annual Devil Mountain Pentathlon last month hosted in Clayton by Dana Hills Swim Team. The meet’s unique format had each athlete swimming five events with their cumulative time determining award winners in A and B divisions. Each summer the recreation swim community focuses for one weekend on Clayton. The 22nd annual Devil Mountain Pentathlon entertained over 1000 swimmers on 15 teams. Dana Hills ended up with 10 division winners while neighboring Oakhurst Country Club’s Emma Wilcox claimed the top place in the girls 13-14 B Division. A Division girls winners for the Otters were Cami McGee (9-10), Sophia Miller (11-12) and Paige Landstrom (13-14) while Preston Marks (six and under), Colton Seastrand (9-10), Joshua Ewert (11-12) and Ryan Levy (15-18) were boys champs. In the B Division Ian Meyer (six and under) and Aidan Moss (11-12) were Otter boys winning B titles and Ada Jeffress (7-8) took a girls crown. Concord teams Walnut Country and Ygnacio Wood were top finishers in the meet as host Dana Hills does not participate in the team scoring. Medal winners for Dana Hills and Oakhurst (Oakhurst swimmers noted OH, otherwise from Dana Hills):
Jay Bedecarre photo
HOST DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM CLAIMED 10 AGE DIVISION FIRST-PLACE MEDALS at the recent 22nd annual devil Mountain Pentathlon where over 1000 swimmers from 15 teams each swam five races with their total time determining the medals. Taking first for the otters were, front row from left, Ian Meyer (6 & under B division), Preston Marks (6 and under A), Ada Jeffress (7-8 B); back row, Aidan Moss (11-12 B), Paige landstrom (13-14 A), Ryan levy (15-18 A), Sophia Miller (11-12 A) and Colton Seastrand (9-10 A). Not pictured, Cami McGhee (9-10 A) and Joshua ewert (11-12 A).
9-10: 1. Cami McGee, 5. Brooke Koller (OH). 11-12: 1. Sophia Miller, 2. Karlie Seastrand, 5. Serafina Celetano, 6. Grace Smith (OH), 8. Haley Brown (OH). 13-14: 1. Paige Landstrom, 4. Caela Hetherton, 5. Logan Sherman, 7. Kaitlyn Sheffield (OH). 15-18: 2. Abbie Kubota, 4. Gabi Mancini, 8. Camille Cline.
GIRLS B DIVISION 6 & under: 5. Eva Kramer. GIRLS A DIVISION 7-8: 1. Ada Jeffress, 2. 6 & under: 2. Rebecca Kayla Long (OH). Adent. 9-10: 3. Dyllan John7-8: 5. Stella Marks, 6. Abbey Keller, 7. Madelyn son, 4. Emme Cademartori, 6. Lily LeSage. Cottam.
Sports Shorts
DIABLO FC FALL REC LEAGUE PROGRAM BEGINS SEPT. 6
11-12: 2. Kelsey Macaulay (OH). 13-14: 1. Emma Wilcox (OH), 3. Chloe Wigton, 7. Madison Caldwell. 15-18: 2. Haleigh Sherman, 5. Hannah Macaulay (OH), 6. Heidi Schau. BOYS A DIVISION 6 & under: 1. Preston Marks, 3. Cooper LeSage. 7-8: 3. Grant Whittlinger, 5. Alex Goldman, 6. Jacob Ceja, 7. Kai Parker. 9-10: 1. Colton Seastrand, 5. Tyler Brown (OH), 7. Will Miller. 11-12: 1. Joshua Ewert. 13-14: 3. John Parker.
15-18: 1. Ryan Levy, 2. Anthony Vines, 4. Sean Thomas, 7. Jerron Miller.
BOYS B DIVISION 6 & under: 1. Ian Meyer, 2. Landon Ottoboni (OH), 4. Dash Borbely, 7. Chase Kreutzinger. 7-8: 4. Wyatt Parker, 6. Jared Hubbard. 9-10: 3. Connor Velez, 4. Ethan Cline, 7. Trevor Long (OH). 11-12: 1. Aidan Moss, 4. Devin Kelly, 5. Justus Littlejohn. 13-14: 2. Dawson McDonald, 4. Keaton Curtis, 6. Jaden Miller, 8. Liam McAdam. 15-18: 3. Emran Solayman, 8. Leo Martinez.
the Aquanut’s homegrown 2012 and 2016 Olympian Mariya Koroleva, 2012 Olympian Szofi Kiss and collegiate alumnae. The show runs Sept. 1-4 at the Clarke Memorial Swim Center at Heather Farm Park. For more information and tickets visit aquanauts.com.
CLAYTON VALLEY JR. EAGLES ACCEPTING All skill levels are welcome to participate in the nine-week Diablo FC soccer fall recreation league in Concord. Players born LATE REGISTRATION FOR FOOTBALL, CHEER SEASONS CVAA Jr. Eagles are still taking last-minute registrations for between 2007 and 2012 will be grouped by age and skill levels to learn key fundamentals to being a successful soccer player with its fall football and cheer squads. Fall practice began earlier this sessions and games on Tuesdays and Saturdays from Sept. 6 - month. Visit their website cvaajreagles.com for more informaNov. 5. Diablo FC professional staff will be the instructors. To tion and to register. register go to diablofc.org or email questions to director of ST. BONAVENTURE CYO CROSS COUNTRY PRACTICE coaching Zach Sullivan at docdiablofc@gmail.com. SHUFFLE THE CARDS FOR CVCHS CASINO NIGHT FOOTBALL BENEFIT SEPT. 17
Clayton Valley Charter football is hosting its fifth annual Casino Night Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament and dinner on Saturday, Sept. 17, benefiting the Ugly Eagles football program. Prize money of up to $500 for first place will be offered for the tournament. Tickets for poker and dinner or dinner only are available now. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. with the poker tournament at 8 o’clock in Centre Concord. Dinner is catered by Lisa V and DJ Mike provides the music. Tickets available at claytonvalleyfootball.com. Call 984-9089 or email cvchsfootball@gmail.com for more information.
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REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES FALL, WINTER PROGRAMS
Fall and winter programs offered by All Out Sports Leagues in Clayton are taking registration now online. Open leagues include summer/fall adult softball, fall youth volleyball and fall/winter youth basketball leagues. For complete information on All Out Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.
WALNUT CREEK AQUANUTS PRESENT ANNUAL RIO-THEMED SHOW SEPT. 1-4
The athletes and coaches of the Walnut Creek Aquanuts synchronized swimming club will dazzle fans with their 47th annual Labor Day Weekend fall show Sept 1-4 celebrating this Summer Olympics, “Nuts about Rio: Faster, Higher, Stronger.” The fall show emphasizes the artistic side of synchronized swimming--complete with glittering costumes, stunning makeup and an amazing set—-and showcases not only Olympic athletes but also young athletes in their very first synchronized swimming performances. The show will depict athletic achievements in a variety of sports and feature
STARTS
MONDAY
St. Bonaventure CYO cross country is open to boys and girls in 2nd-8th grades in the St. Bonaventure attendance area. Cross country is a short, family-oriented season with practices Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5:30 p.m. in Newhall Park. The program is also looking for volunteer coaches. Parents are highly encouraged to run with their children at practices. Friday meets begin Sept. 23 with the Oakland Diocese meet Oct. 21. Contact St. Bonaventure CYO athletic director Joe Sullivan at 969-0207, email johnmercurio@astound.net or visit stbonaventurecyo.com for more info.
FORMER DE LA SALLE FOOTBALL PLAYER, WEST POINT GRAD DIES
A 21-year-old soldier who played football at De La Salle High School died after falling ill during his first day of U.S. Army Ranger School in Georgia late last month. Second Lt. Michael Parros died after being treated for hyponatremia, a condition in which the level of sodium in the blood is too low, according to Army officials at Fort Benning where he was in training. He had reported to Fort Benning for training after graduating from the U.S. Army Military Academy in May. He was a versatile football player at De La Salle in the 2010 and 2011 varsity seasons when the Spartans won backto-back state titles and were national champions in 2010. He played quarterback, wide receiver and defensive back for former head coach Bob Ladouceur and went on to play football, hockey and soccer at West Point. Ladouceur said Parros was a “great team player” who displayed leadership qualities that transcended football. “It’s definitely shocking and it’s heartbreaking,” Ladouceur said. “He had such a bright future ahead of him.”
See Shorts, page 13
August 12, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
Sports
CV High Hall of Fame coach Howard Marshall passes JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Howard Marshall made a lasting imprint on Clayton Valley High School girls basketball, coaching at the school for 13 years, the last
Like to talk Bay Area sports? How about writing about them for the Pioneer?
The Pioneer newspapers are looking for someone interested in writing a monthly column about Bay Area professional and college sports. This is the chance to give your opinions on Bay Area professional teams and the leagues they play in. For the past three years our readers have enjoyed our SportsTalk column with sports takes of Tyler Lehman. He started writing for us in 2013 about the Raiders, 49ers, Giants, A’s, Warriors and more while he was a student at Diablo Valley College. He transferred to San Francisco State and continued his column. He recently graduated and is starting his professional journalism career. We’re looking for someone who would like to follow in Tyler’s footsteps, giving us their take on local teams and national matters impacting pro and college sports. We don’t offer any monetary remuneration for the column but our sports editor Jay Bedecarre will give editing and style guidance and the published columns will certainly add to a writer’s portfolio. Anyone interested in this assignment should send a letter of interest and writing samples to sports@claytonpioneer.com. If a prospective writer has any questions they can address them to the same email address.
11 at the varsity level. He is the longest tenured head varsity girls basketball coach in the school’s nearly 60-year history. The CVHS Athletic Hall of Fame coach passed away at the age of 80 on July 11, 2016, in Pacific City, Oregon. He had the distinction of being the first CVHS basketball coach to take a team— boys or girls—to the North Coast Section championship game and the first to go to the Northern California Championships. He coached his Clayton Valley teams to 195 wins for a career .635 winning percentage. Marshall played basketball at Regis University in his native Colorado. He coached boys basketball at now defunct Pacifica High in West Pittsburg and Mt. Diablo High before stepping away for eight years “because it got to be real stressful. I started questioning my ability to coach.” Marshall had moved to a teaching position at Clayton Valley in 1980 when girls var-
HOWARD MARSHALL JAN. 24, 1936 — JULY 11, 2016
sity coach Roger Zino asked him to coach the junior varsity. Zino said, “I told him ‘Let’s get with it. You’re taking home all that knowledge. Let’s use it.’” Two years later Zino and Marshall swapped teams, starting his 11 years with the varsity Eagles. In four seasons from 1985
to 1988, his team won three league championships and was second once. The 1988 team was runner-up at NCS and went to the Northern California Championships. He was inducted to the CVHS Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010, the same year he was the presenter of his 1988 girls basketball team to the Hall. His son Steve was inducted into the CVHS Hall of Fame in 2008 as part of the 1977 State Champion wrestling team. Marshall spent most of his early life in Napa, graduating from Napa High and Napa Junior College. He attended Regis on a basketball scholarship, teaching and coaching there after graduation. He was married in 1958 to Jeanne Nielsen Marshall. In 1964, the family moved to Concord where he taught school in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District for 32 years (retiring in 1996), coaching boys and girls basketball for over 600 games and 25 years. He is survived by his wife
DLS looking for new basketball coach after surprise resignation of AJ Kuhle after only one season After taking his alma mater within one half of winning the CIF Open Division State basketball championship in March, AJ Kuhle announced last week that he is moving back to Colorado to be with his family. Kuhle took over the De La Salle High basketball program in the summer of 2015 after long-time coach Frank Allocco accepted the assistant head coaching position at the University of San Francisco. After graduating from DLS Kuhle played on the Air Force Academy’s Mountain West Conference championship team in 2003-04 and was an assistant coach at the Academy and at the University of Denver before returning to California.
Shorts, from page 12
“We want to thank AJ for last year and continuing the tradition of excellence,” Spartan athletic director Leo Lopoz said. “AJ is a tremendous coach, on and off the court, and we will miss him. We will begin the search for the next head coach immediately.” Lopoz said the remainder of the DLS coaching staff will handle offseason while a new coach is found. Kuhle was the fifth head coach of the Spartan basketball program. De La Salle went 30-3 in the 2015-16 season and lost to ESPN Super 25 national champion Chino Hills in the state championship game when the undefeated Huskies rallied to be overtake the Spartans.
FOOTBALL OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION
of 58 years Jeanne; four sons, Steve, Greg, Matt and Kent Marshall; brother, Ray Marshall, sister Elnora Allison, nine grandchildren and one great granddaughter. There will be a memorial Mass in the Chapel at St. Bonaventure Church in Con-
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SEEKING NOMINATIONS
Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame will induct its fifth class on Friday, May 19, 2017 at the Shadelands Art Center in Walnut Creek. The Hall of Fame committee is seeking nominees for that 2017 induction class. Nominees must be a CVHS grad from 1959-2006 and was allleague in at least one sport. Nomination forms can be picked up at the high school office during business hours. Contact Herc Pardi herc_pardi@hotmail.com or Dee Billeter deebilleter@yahoo.com with any questions. The committee will accept completed forms until Oct. 15.
TERRAPINS FALL CLINIC,
YEAR-ROUND PROGRAM TAKING SIGNUPS
The renowned Terrapins Swim Team will be hosting its annual Fall Stoke Improvement Program from Sept. 12 to Dec. 11 at Concord Community Pool. The program offers rec swimmers six-year-olds through high school the opportunity to train under the professional Terrapin staff for three months. Limited clinic registration is now being taken online at terrapinswim.com. The Terrapins year-round USA Swimming program is also accepting applications now for its fall season that begins Aug. 29. Call 680-8372 or visit terrapinswim.com for more info.
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SEEKING NEW MEMBERS
If you’ve ever thought you might want to learn more about football from the real inside the Contra Costa Football Officials CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE Association can teach you. CCFOA provides officials for local FALL BALL UNDERWAY high school and youth games along the I-680 and Hwy. 4 corriThe Clayton Valley Little League Fall Ball program is accept- dors. They are looking for new members for the upcoming fall ing boys and girls for baseball (8-12 years old) and softball (12 season. There is an all-day clinic this Sunday in preparation for and under). The three-month program starts this month with the new season. For more information visit ccfoa.com. practice and will include practices and games through October HAILEY PASCOE NAMED TO PATRIOT LEAGUE with a focus on fundamentals. For more information and to register visit cvll.org. ACADEMIC HONOR ROLL Freshman Hailey Pascoe, a 2015 graduate of Clayton Valley 3RD DIABLO FC POKER NIGHT FUNDRAISER SEPT. 9 Charter High School, was one of 11 Lehigh women’s basketball Local competitive soccer club Diablo FC will hold its 3rd players named to the Patriot League Academic Honor Roll annual fundraising Poker Night on Friday, Sept. 9. There will be announced by the league. The all-time leading scorer at Clayton dinner before gaming starts at Pleasant Hill Community Center. Valley, Pascoe earned a 3.4 GPA. She was also a member of the The poker tournament will have gift certificate prizes up to $600. Patriot League all-rookie team while starting 24 of the team’s 31 For more information or to sign up visit diablofc.org. games.
CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
cord on Saturday, Sept. 3. Mass will be at 11:30 a.m. with a potluck reception following in the church hall. Donations can be made to the ALS Foundation at Duke University or Oregon State University.
Clayton Pioneer wants to publish your sports news
Please let us know about your sports news, special events, fund raisers, tryouts, signups and accomplishments. Youth leagues, clubs, schools and adult programs are all welcome to send us a rundown on what you’re doing. Include all the necessary details (too much information is better than too little!) and your contact information. It’s as simple as sending an email to sports@claytonpioneer.com
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 12, 2016
WaistWatchers heaps on the musical fun
Performing Arts
his plays in a style that allows you to hear and see them in a new way. We’re placing this production in its original period but replanting it in a California seaside town – not exactly Santa Cruz, where I grew up, but with elements that are reminiscent of that incredible boardwalk environment.” Single tickets are $20-$84, with discounts available for seniors, youth, students, military families, persons age 30 and under and groups. Call 510-548-9666 or go to www.calshakes.org.
SAllY HoGARTY
STAGE STRUCK
If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, here’s the show for you. The national tour of “WaistWatchers The Musical” will help you laugh off a few pounds as four women (of a certain age) struggle through assorted body image issues and the relentless search for a positive self-image. This lighthearted musical tackles dieting, exercise, plastic surgery, sex over 40 and more with lots of humor and sensitivity. Not to mention infectious musical numbers and crazy workout choreography that will have you eating this show up. The four seasoned professionals “Zumba-ize” popular songs, turning them into tunes like “Botox Queen,” “I Hope I Lose It,” “The World’s Greatest Ice Cream” and “I Went to the Buffet Line.”
Michael Bush
“WAISTWATCHERS, THE MUSICAL” with Krissy Johnson, dionne Carole, Pam Jorgensen and eleonore Thomas runs through Aug. 28 at the del Valle Theatre.
The silliness continues through Aug. 28 at Walnut Creek’s Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd. Tickets are $45-65 for this 90 minutes (no intermission) of fun. For tickets, call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.Lesherartscenter.org.
david dierks
KEN SOLLAZZO AND SUSAN ENGLAND in a scene from the orinda Starlight Village Players production of “Aria’s.”
If you prefer outdoor entertainment, you have two options right here in Contra Costa County. California Shakespeare Theater presents George Bernard Shaw’s “You Never Can Tell” directed by Obie award-winner Lisa Peterson. Full of Shaw’s famous satirical wit, the show runs through Sept. 4 at the beautiful Bruns Amphitheatre, 100 California Shakespeare Theater Way, Orinda. “You Never Can Tell” examines turn-of-the-century social mores and family dynamics as Mrs. Clandon, a world-famous feminist author and lecturer, returns to a seaside resort after years abroad. Families are reunited after a fashion, “thoroughly modern” romance blooms and everyone learns not to judge people too quickly. “I call myself a Shaw geek,” says Peterson. “I’ve always loved the challenge of doing
The Orinda Starlight Village Players continue the romantic comedy “Aria’s” by Robert Merrill through Aug. 13 at the Orinda Community Center Park Amphitheatre, 28 Orinda Way. The show follows a widow (Susan England) trying to run the family restaurant and raise her young son (Akash Wason and Genevieve DiNatale alternate in the role). The renovation of businesses in another part of town plus the somewhat controversial death of her husband (Geotty Chapple) has the restaurant floundering until a lone businessman (Malcolm Cowler) enters and changes everyone’s lives. It’s a pleasant night under the stars, which you can see up close during intermission using one of two high-powered telescopes available. Call 925-5289225 for tickets.
THE ROSETTA STONE CAST. clockwise: Kassidy Grace Mayernik, Jamie Samantha lee, Cass Panuska, Jill wagoner, Alexis lane Jensen, Sarita Cannon, Harriet March Page, and Mark Alburger. outrageous opera at the lesher through Aug. 27.
Schindler Mahler Gropius Werfel” and John G. Bilotta and Jostein Stalheim’s “Rosetta’s Stone” as part of its Fresh Voices Festival of New Works. Alburger’s work was inspired by the beautiful Austro-American composersocialite Alma, her three husbands and nine lovers. Bilotta and Stalheim chronicle a professor’s descent into Alzheimer’s and its effect on his student. For more information, go to www.goat-hall.org and for tickets, call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org.
Two new “outrageous” operas receive their world premieres Aug. 12-13 and Aug. 2627 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center. Goat Hall Productions/San Francisco “Seussical the Musical, Jr.” Cabaret Opera presents Mark comes to life in a colorful, funAlburger’s “Alma Maria
filled production at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts. Characters such as Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and Gertrude McFuzz will transport you from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus and on to the invisible world of the Whos. Presented by Poison Apple Productions, the family-friendly show runs Aug. 1221. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is also the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@gmail.com
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CLAYTON COMMUNITY
HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR Saturday, August 27, 2016 / 10am—1pm 6123 Main Street, Clayton, CA
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5k Fun Run
Fluoride Treatments
Go to redcross.org with sponsor code: “Clayton” to make your appointment
Oral Hygiene Demonstrations
Oral Cancer Foundation
Blood Pressure Checks
Momentum Fitness
Diabetes Association Coflin Chiropractor Empower Nutrition
Run starts at 9am Pre-registration for first 75 entrants info@bradburndentistry.com
Refreshments Raffles & Prizes including a Sonic Care System & teeth whitening
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August 12, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Clayton Community Calendar
Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 9/8/16
PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. AUG. 31 FOR THE SEPT. 9 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
IN CLAYTON
Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Reservations required: eagleeyedesign@att.net.
Aug. 20 Arturo Sandoval
Aug. 13, 27, Sept. 10 Saturday Concerts in the Grove
Hike near the upper portion of White Canyon listening for birds of the evening, the common poorwill and local owls. 7 – 10:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Reservations required: blkittiwake@yahoo.com.
Aug. 26 “The David Bowie Concert Experience”
Aug. 17, 31 Wednesday Classic Cars
Hike looking for tarantulas. 4:30 – 7 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Online reservations required.
Saturdays, thru Sept. 24, except Sept. 3 Farmers’ Market
8 a.m. – 12 p.m. 6095 Main St., Clayton. pcfma.org. 6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. cityofclayton.org. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3. 6 – 8 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. cityofclayton.org.
Aug. 27 Wine Tasting and Book Signing
Clayton’s own Chloe Laube invites you for a peek at her novella, “Dream On, Dancing Queen.” 1 – 4 p.m. La Veranda Café, 6201 Center St., Clayton. Free admission; book $7. For more information, contact anncastellucci@hotmail.com.
Aug. 19 Common Poorwill Birdwalk
Aug. 27 Tarantula Walk
Aug. 28 The California Tarantula
Have a close encounter with these fascinating and harmless spiders. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Museum.
Sept. 10 Tarantula Walk
Sept. 3 Derby and Car Show
Mondays Off the Grid
Rotating lineup of food trucks. 5 – 9 p.m. 2151 Salvio Street. offthegridsf.com.
Tuesdays Farmers’ Market
Tuesdays year round, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
Thursdays Music and Market
Thursday night live music and farmers’ market. Music: Aug. 18, Project 4 Band; Aug. 25, Caravanserai; Sept. 1, PUSH; Sept. 8, Evolution. Market 4 – 8 p.m.; music 6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
3rd Sundays Antique Faire
Antiques, collectibles, handmade arts and crafts. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free admission. concordantiquefaire.com.
On Sale Now Concerts
The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road. livenation.com. Concert schedule for 2016: Aug. 13, Slipknot, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 19, Disturbed, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27, Outcry Tour, 6 p.m. Aug. 28, Snoop Dogg, 7 p.m. Sept. 4, Hot Summer Night Feat, 4 p.m. Sept. 10, Fifth Harmony, 7 p.m. Sept. 18, Daryl Hall and John Oates, 7 p.m.
Aug. 13 - 14 Japanese American Summer Festival
Japanese American Club’s annual event featuring Japanese food, Kendo and Judo demonstrations, Taiko drum performances, Japanese dance performance and flower arrangements. Sat. 1 – 9 p.m. Sun. 12 – 8:30 p.m. Japanese American Religious and Cultural Center, 3165 Treat Blvd., Concord. Free admission, parking at Ygnacio Valley High School. www.diablojaclub.com.
Hike looking for tarantulas. 5 – 7:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Online reservations required.
Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve programs are available for registration through ebparks.org. Parking fees may apply. For additional information, contact Black Diamond Visitor Center at (510) 544-2750 or bdvisit@ebparks.org.
Thru November Hazel-Atlas Mine Tours
Professional vocalist. 7:30 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $38-$48. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 4271611.
CHURCHES AND RELIGION
Aug. 17 Prayer Vigil
Pray together for peace. 7 – 8 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church in the Chapel, 1645 West St., Concord. concordumc.org.
FUNDRAISERS
Help monitor a small bat colony as the bats emerge from the hills to fly at night. 6:45 p.m. – 9:15 p.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines. Registration required.
Aug. 13 – 14 Relay For Life Clayton
Aug. 14 Bat Monitoring Aug. 20 Stories in Sand
Discover the stories told by the sandy hills of Black Diamond on a walk with great views of Mount Diablo. 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines.
Aug. 21 Beat the Heat Hike
Head out early on a strenuous, three-mile hike with fantastic views. 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines.
Aug. 28 Old-Fashioned Cemetery Picnic
Pack a picnic and hike to Rose Hill Cemetery to learn about the lives of the 19th century coal miners. 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Aug. 14 Mariachi Music
Performed by Mariachi Tapatio de San Jose with Grupo Folklorico Los Laureles. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $10-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Aug. 15 Chorale Auditions
Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org.
American Cancer Society fundraiser. Join a team or walk as an individual. Activities for participants and spectators. 10 a.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Sunday. Mt. Diablo Elementary School, 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton. Register at relayforlife.org/claytonca.
AT THE LIBRARY
The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call 673-0659. Aug. 17: College Planning Workshop, 6 p.m. Registration required. Aug. 18: Bubbles, 4 p.m. Registration required. Aug. 22, Sept. 12: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Sept. 12: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m. The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or 6465455. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug.
13, Sept. 10: AARP Free Tax Assistance, 10 a.m. 16: Teen Craft, 4 p.m. 18: Concord Library Book Club, 6:30 p.m. 22 – Sept. 5: Library Closed for Renovations
GOVERNMENT
1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council
7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission
7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
ON AND AROUND THE MOUNTAIN
Hike with great views and varied habitat. 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Aug. 27 Nonoy Zuniga
2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast
Docent-led walk through of restoration progress on former Masonic Temple. 1, 2 and 3 p.m. 1928 Clayton Road, Concord. Free; donations requested. concordhistorical.org.
Aug. 13 Little Giant Loop
Presented by Diablo Regional Arts Association. 5 and 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Learn about the mining history and geology at Black Diamond Mines. Guided, 90-minute tour; Saturdays and Sundays. Must be age 7 or older with parent. $5. For reservation and ticket information, go to ebparks.org.
Aug. 14 Concord Museum and Event Center
Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Event Calendar for more information.
Aug. 27 Mark O’Connor’s “Hot Swing”
Hilarious and heartwarming musical that is a culture clash for the ages. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. centerrep.org
Sept. 24 – 25 Skip Ipsen Memorial Bocce Tournament
IN CONCORD
Presented by West Coast Performing Arts. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Sept. 9 – Oct. 8 “It Shoulda Been You”
Clayton Community Church’s 13th Annual Labor Day event. Kids 7 – 14 race derby cars down Main Street. Car show and parade. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Main Street, Clayton. Free. Register for both events at claytoncc.com. Inaugural open bocce tournament in memory of Skip Ipsen. Sponsored by Clayton Business and Community Association. 12 – 6 p.m. Ipsen Family Bocce Park, 6000 Main St., Clayton. $400 per team. claytonbocce.org/event/ipsen.
Presented by Diablo Regional Arts Association. 5 and 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Prepare a song and bring sheet music to demonstrate vocal quality, technique and musicality to audition for Diablo Women’s Chorale. 6:15 p.m. Saint Matthew, 399 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. To schedule audition, call Nancy at 899-5050 or email diablowomenschorale@gmail.com. diablowomenschorale.org.
Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at claytonpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’
SUSAN SAPPINGToN
CLOTHES UP
Each person has unique physical attributes. You can enhance your individual features if you know how to choose clothes to match your eyes, skin tone and hair color. Buying a new dress may seem like a simple task. However, you may become frustrated when you see that the dress which looks stunning in the
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
store window doesn’t look good on you at all. It’s important to find the right clothes to make you look your best. Most people have certain clothes they like to wear more often. When you look in your closet, you may see the same color palette. Although you vow to add more interesting colors, you continue to be magnetized by the same colors. Some colors may simply look better on your skin tone, in pretty much the same manner that they also complement your eyes and hair color. People’s skin comes in many different shades, but there are only two undertones: warm and
cool. The undertones are what count in determining the right colors to suit you. To know yours, turn your hand over with the palm up. If the veins are blue or purple, you have a cool tone. If they appear green or have a yellow cast, then you have a warm tone. Knowing what color tone is right to go with your skin and hair can dramatically change your appearance. The right color can give you a flattering and healthy glow, while you can end up looking older when you choose the wrong color. Normally, red is used as the basis in identifying your color. Trying on some red suits can
Dark mood of ‘Lights Out’ doesn’t last past final credits
There are a lot of uses for black light: counterfeit money detection, criminology and art fraud to name a few. The newest one to add to the list would be to reveal Diana, the ghostly apparition that can only appear and do damage in the dark. With producing help from next-gen horror master James Wan, director David F. Sandberg gives us “Lights Out,” a too-brief window into the terror that lurks in the shadows. The two darkest places in the house are under the bed and in the closet. As children, we dread the dark and what we might find. There is nothing more frightening than something hiding there. In this movie, 10-year-old Martin (Gabriel Bateman) comes face-to-face with what we fear the most. He knows
something has been wrong with his mom for awhile, and it has only gotten worse since an accident involving his stepfather. Sophie (a nervous, aged Maria Bello) talks to herself often and has been neglecting Martin more and more. Martin’s lack of sleep due to Diana’s sudden appearances at night causes a social worker to come calling. As Martin’s older sister Rebecca (Teresa Palmer) and boyfriend Bret (Alexander DiPresia) get involved, it’s clear that something has to be done. However, Sophie will not admit that there is a problem. What little we get in the way of plot is typical of horror movies as of late. Something in a family’s past literally comes back to haunt them. There is typically an incident involving one or both parents when they
Fall Sports, from page 11
follow that will games against Canyon Springs of Nevada, James Logan of Union City and Deer Valley of Antioch. Concord and CVCHS have dominated Diablo Valley Athletic League football this decade and they are now placed with four tough teams that will make the league round-robin schedule much more difficult for the Minutemen and Eagles. They will play Miramonte, Las Lomas, Campolindo and Acalanes in addition to meeting up with one another Oct. 14 at Concord. League play begins Oct. 7 and runs for five consecutive weeks before the NCS playoffs get underway. Clayton Valley Charter will be in the NCS open division this fall facing the likes of Division I powerhouses De La Salle, Antioch, Monte Vista, Foothill and
August 12, 2016
Clothes look better when you know your personal colors
Pittsburg. Teams in NCS open division can be placed in lower divisions for the state playoffs. De La Salle’s senor class has reportedly been called its least talented in 25 years as the Spartans try to reach another State Bowl game. DLS ‘s non-league schedule includes a game against Antioch which features 2015 California Mr. Football Najee Harris, the No. 1 ranked running back recruit who verbally committed as a sophomore to national champion Alabama. The Panthers visit the Spartans Sept. 23. Games against nonNCS foes are Utah state champion East of Salt Lake City, Serra of San Mateo and Servite (with top-rated quarterback recruit Tyler Lytle) will host DLS in Anaheim. Six of the 12 teams in the
were young, and it gets passed on to the children. “Lights Out” is no exception. While the story may be a bit cliché, the execution is flawless. At a scant 81 minutes, “Lights Out” does not feel all that short. After long bouts of exposition and plot development, Sandberg draws out the tension whenever Diana grows near. Bits of light from a blinking neon sign or a cell phone are all that keep Rebecca and her family alive. The camera work frames the scenes to put the audience just out of harm’s way, but then quick cuts put Diana right in our faces. “Lights Out” did not have the lasting effect of films such as “Paranormal Activity” or “The Conjuring,” which stick around well into the night and even the next day. I assumed I would go
D-I NCS playoffs from last fall are on this year’s Spartans schedule including losing finalist Foothill when De La Salle won its 24th consecutive section championship. Justin Alumbaugh’s three years as head coach have yielded a 41-2 record and two State titles. Last year’s senior-packed team included top national recruits Devin Asiasi (Michigan) and Boss Tagaloa (UCLA). DIABLO ATHLETIC LEAGUE Fall Sports Division Alignments Football – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, CVCHS, Concord, Las Lomas, Miramonte. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, College Park, Mt. Diablo, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley. Boys & Girls Cross Country – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord,
help you identify your color profile. These include scarlet and orange reds that have traces of yellow. You have a warm color profile if you look good wearing clothes with warm-based reds.
JeFF MellINGeR
SCREEN SHOTS
home and be wary of turning the lights off before bed. However, once home, I forgot I had even been scared an hour before. Movie theaters today always have ambient lighting, which is distracting during dark scenes. Perhaps “Lights Out” would be better watched in a fully dark living room. Good luck flipping the switches after that. B
Jeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. He lives in Concord. Email comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com. Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley. Girls Tennis – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, CVCHS, College Park, Concord, Ygnacio Valley. Girls Golf – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord, College Park, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley. Girls & Boys Water Polo – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, College Park, CVCHS, Concord, Ygnacio Valley, Hercules, Pinole Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent. Girls Volleyball – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.
CST #2033054-40
Page 16
You’ll never go wrong when you buy clothes in orange, watermelon, coral, yellow, dark leafy green and peacock blue. Fill your wardrobe with taupe, yellow and rose-gold, but never include cool blues in your selection. An easy way to determine if you have a cool color profile is to see if you look good in coolbased reds, such as fuchsia, cherry and raspberry. Cool-based reds contain bluish tints like the
colors found in peppermint, baby pink, cherry reds, evergreen, fuchsia violet and powder blue. It’s not surprising that cooltoned people look best when wearing clothes in cool colors like royal or navy blue, gray and black. If you are shopping for clothes, think of colors that remind you of water and the sky, but avoid clothes with yellow hues. In terms of metallic, silver is your thing. Next month, I will explain how to understand the color wheel. Let me help you choose your colors for fall. I am a personal stylist for both men and women. Book your appointment today. Susan Sappington is the Area Development Manager and Wardrobe Consultant for ETCETERA Clothing of New York. Send comments to susan@etcstyles.com.
Monsoon can bring lightning show to Sierra In a few days, we’ll be joining the grandkids for a weekend in the Sierra Nevada. I hope the daytime skies will be sunny for swimming and hiking. I won’t complain, however, if a surge of monsoon moisture produces a show of lightning and thunder for us to enjoy. Thunderstorms can develop in the mountains for a variety of reasons. The main ingredients include a moist air mass and an unstable atmosphere. In the late summer and early fall, the moist air mass most likely originates over the warm water on either side of northern Mexico. Atmospheric instability occurs when the monsoonal winds lift the moist air over the Sierra. A monsoon wind pattern develops when land masses heat up during the hottest months of the year. In response to the heat, lowpressure zones develop over the land surface and winds become on-shore. A significant amount of moisture can be transported inland if warm sea water borders the land and the jet stream aligns with the lower level winds. The largest and most famous monsoon is the South Asia monsoon. The warm Indian Ocean is the moisture source, and strong onshore winds deliver peri-
Ph:
WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS ods of rainfall to India, Pakistan and several other countries during the summer and fall. Monsoonal winds deliver a large percentage of annual rainfall in the South Asia countries. Agricultural harvests depend on ample monsoon season rains. However, extremely strong monsoons are responsible for devastating floods that can ravage the region. Closer to home, the North American monsoon affects northern Mexico and states from Texas to California. Both the Gulf of Mexico and Gulf of California contribute moist air that the monsoonal winds push northeastward toward the Sierra. The inland extent of monsoon rains depends on
See Weather, page 20
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August 12, 2016
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Page 17
Develop a strategy when buying dining room furnishings The dining room is a living space where family and friends gather for casual feasts or intimate, candlelit dinners. It’s a place to host a friendly poker game with your nearest and dearest, or a festive house party spread of jewelry and handbags. And it’s great for club meetings, homework or wrapping gifts. Whatever purpose a dining room serves, most likely there is a well-sized table that makes the room functional. It really is all about the table. When searching for a dining table, there are two important guidelines: table size/shape and dimensions of the room. Rectangular rooms usually support a rectangular or oblong tables, while square rooms accommodate square or round ones. While you’re searching for
one update you get all the features you may have missed with incremental updates. Think about each update on Tuesday (called patch Tuesday) that you may have not installed; now every patch or update will install. (Patches are fixes to software bugs or faulty features.) The Internet browser called Edge will get some needed features, like support for plug-ins. A plug-in is a supplementary program that works in your browser. “A browser plug-in (such as Macromedia Flash or Apple QuickTime) allows you to play certain multimedia files
the perfect table shape, don’t forget to account for the chairs that will flank the table. Chairs also come in all sorts of sizes and shapes, and the width and depth of a chair is equally important as it will take up space in the room too. You need to be able to walk around the table with the chairs pushed under the table, as well as when the chairs have been
pushed away from the table. Table leaves are always a great lengthening and enlarging accessory to consider. Some tables can be purchased in a set size, while others have the option to add two or three leaves from 12-20 inches. Some round tables can be turned into a racetrack shape, while others become larger in diameter as the leaves are attached to the perimeter. Always confirm that the leaves will not make the table so big that it won’t fit in the dining room. The chandelier is the last bit of business to consider when pulling a dining room together. While it’s important to coordinate table and chandelier shape and scale, height of the light fixture is the next measurement to keep in mind. Dining tables are 30 inches
high. It’s a practiced rule that the bottom of the chandelier is 30-36 inches off of the table. This ensures that you can see your neighbor across the table, as well as aesthetic positioning. Another good rule to keep in mind is that chandeliers above dining room tables should have a diameter of half to two-thirds the width of the table. This is a functional rule, as well as an aesthetic one. You certainly don’t want to hit your head as you stand or sit at the table, and a chandelier larger in width than the table would look out of proportion.
within your web browser,” according to the TechTerms website. Microsoft is now requiring plug-ins to be certified so they work correctly and are more secure so they won’t let malware invade your web surfing. In addition, Edge is now more battery efficient – meaning it won’t drain your laptop as fast as other browsers will. Cortana, the audio and visual assistant derived from the hugely famous Halo game, can now be a major part of your web searching. She will assist you to focus your web searches. She can even save web pages, book appoint-
ments, act as a reminder “nanny” and interact better with your existing apps. For tablet users, Ink is now part of your ability to annotate across different apps, if you have a stylus. And now some X-Box features are part of gaming. New tools for classrooms with better “group” sharing and better data protection with Windows Information Protection are all bundled free for existing Windows 10 users. If you missed the free upgrades to Windows 10, future upgrades will cost about $150 for the software and labor if you choose not to
do it yourself. Here’s a tip if you’ve ever had an app, browser or video freeze. Right mouse click on the Windows Start logo in the lower left of your screen. Then choose Task Manager. When the window opens, be sure it’s set to less details (default). Find the offending app in the list, highlight it, right click and choose End Task. Poof, it’s gone. Until next time, surf safely.
it organizations through each customer purchase. Every bag sold finances the planting, growing and harvesting of 10 trees in Haiti through their partners at Eden Projects. “The farmers market has helped us reach 4,350 trees planted in Haiti,” O’Brien says. “Thank you so much for all the support. It really is making a difference in the lives of those in need. Please keep it up, and spread the word.”
Cook onions in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring often, 15 to 20 minutes or until onions are caramel colored. Stir in remaining ingredients and
cook, stirring occasionally, 5 to 10 more minutes or until liquid has evaporated. Use this savory jam as a topping for beef or pork.
JeNNIFeR leISCHeR
DESIGN & DÉCOR
Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.
Windows 10 marks anniversary with roll-up upgrade Microsoft released Windows 10 about a year ago, and it has made history as the largest, most successful release of an operating system. It’s hard to imagine an operating system maturing so fast, but it has happened under the guidance of Satya Nadella, the current CEO of Microsoft. Congratulations should go both to the hightech company and those 350 million device users who have adopted and adapted to change so quickly. To celebrate their success, Microsoft is going the extra mile and introducing the Win-
wIll ClANeY
TECH TALK
dows 10 Anniversary Edition. It’s Windows 10 going forward into the future. Essentially, the anniversary edition is a roll-up of all previous upgrades. That means in
William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.
Mitchell Canyon Coffee new to farmers market DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee permeates the Clayton farmers market as Clayton’s own Mitchell Canyon Coffee Roasters joins the market with brewed coffee and whole coffee beans by the pound. It’s worth the wait as you watch them prepare your individual cup with the pour-over brewing method. Brody O’Brien founded Mitchell Canyon Coffee Roasters in 2014 and brought on Carson Cress soon after. With a passion for coffee and the world, they came up with new coffees and creative ideas. They roast their beans at Cup O’ Jo coffeehouse on Main Street in Clayton and offer coffees from around the
BRODY O’BRIEN HAS A PASSION FOR COFFEE and for the community. The local company roasts their beans at Cup o’ Jo and gives back with every bag.
world: Kenya, Uganda, ColumMitchell Canyon Coffee is bia, Ethiopia and more. Try dedicated to giving back to the their Hometown Espresso or community. One way they do Rock City dark roast. this is by supporting non-prof-
COFFEE ONION JAM 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced 6 T. oil ½ c. hot strong brewed coffee ¼ c. sugar ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper
Write Your Own Life Story with Memoir Coach Jill Morris
Leave your grandchildren a family history they will treasure.
Author and memoir coach Jill Morris leads 5-day memoir-writing workshops this summer in Lafayette and Walnut Creek for those who want to put their life stories down on paper.
Summer Classes Open for Registration
Aug. 22 - 26, 10 am - 2:30 pm, Walnut Creek Community Center
For further info, go to www.yourlifeyourwords.com
Enjoy mountain splendor during the dog days of summer Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
MIKe MARCHIANo
MOUNTAIN MIKE
As temperature peaked at more than 100 degrees for many days recently, the last remnants of small pools along creekbeds and ponds have dried up or shrunk to short-lived mud holes. Frogs and toads have completed their metamorphosis, and are hiding underground in the cool homes of ground squirrels
and gophers. Even on these exceedingly hot days, temperatures just 12-18 inches underground will be in the 50s. Larger bodies of water can sustain life for a little longer, but these watering holes will also dry up before late fall or early winter rains begin to refill them. Many aquatic insects and crustaceans will bury into drying mud and wait out this dry period. Others will fly to cooler and wetter locations. At this time of year, mammals and birds will trespass into neighborhoods that border open spaces looking for water and food in our backyards. But even during these dry, desert-like conditions, animals and plants adapt and survive. If you hike this time of year, you can’t help but notice the aroma of a bright green, yellow-flow-
CALIFORNIA FUSCHIA
ered plant emerging in the golden brown field of wild oats and other grasses. I am amazed every year to watch this parched landscape give birth to this sticky plant, nicknamed tar weed. With no visible means of moisture, this plant springs out of hard, cracked dry clay soil and adds its bright yellow flowers to the landscape. It also offers nourishment to hundreds of bees, bee-
August 12, 2016
tles, flies and butterflies – which in turn are the food for birds, rodents, reptiles and other arthropods. The food chain and the ecological relationships between all of these living creatures constantly add to the mystery of how all of these living things survive. This is also the time of the year to keep your eyes open for Mount Diablo’s gentle giant, the California tarantula. Male tarantulas are on the prowl, looking for several quick hook-ups. These 100 percent harmless creatures may look imposing but are nothing to fear. But please
watch where you are stepping. Also keep your eyes open for a small, fuzzy reddish orange ant running along the ground. This fast-moving little creature is a wingless female wasp. (The males have wings but no stinger.) Commonly called a velvet ant because of the fury appearance, the female wasp can be found looking for the nests of ground-dwelling bees and other wasps. She will lay eggs on their larva and parasitizes them. Another plant to look for when hiking is the later summer/early fall blooming California fuchsia. This bright red, tubular flower with dull greenish
blue stems and leaves is another drought-resistant plant with the amazing ability to grow out of dry rocky outcrops. Hummingbirds and numerous insects utilize it when so few other flowers are in bloom. It’s one more amazing gift from Mother Nature. Even as the temperatures rise and the season changes, the natural world has beauty and mystery to discover. Take the time to stop and look. Mike Marchiano is a naturalist with the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association. Contact him at mmarchiano@gmail.com
Sun-hardy Calylophus a natural for Clayton
NICole HACKeTT
GARDEN GIRL
Book Your Event Between Aug. 1 - Sept. 30
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SELECT FROM: FREE Room Rental
FREE Dessert Buffet FREE Soda On Beverage Station
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There’s a new groundcover in town called Calylophus, and it’s taking Clayton by storm. Pronounced kal-ee-LOWfus, the plant is sun and heat hardy, long-blooming and has low water needs. This Texas native comes from a harsh environment, therefore growing in our Clayton climate feels natural. The first time we spotted Calylophus growing locally was in the back acre of a fully exposed landscape off Pine Hollow Road. In the distance, we could see a sweeping groundcover of yellow flowers. It was planted along a pebble walkway besides gigantic salvia and a pile of daylily. Since it was unfamiliar, we approached this groundcover to see what it could be. The flowers were 2 inches wide and cup shaped. The color was a buttery yellow, and the leaves were very fine, almost fernlike. I was amazed that this groundcover could deal with both the relentless sun and the reflective heat generated from the pebbles. I have sought out Calylophus ever since that day. Calylophus Southern Bell and Calylophus drummondii are equally fabulous. They both
Nicole Hackett
THIS BRILLIANT PILE OF CALYLOPHUS creates a proud border along the lawn area of Fred and Judy Pueringer’s Clayton landscape.
are small-scale groundcovers reaching 2-4 inches tall and about 30 inches wide. Calylophus grows from a single root, making it an excellent plant for drip or netafim irrigation. Yellow flowers emerge once the heat arrives. They behave similar to lantana, blooming when it’s hot and resting during winter months. Calylophus would make an excellent addition to a dry creek application. Plant along the border of an area for some interest. Consider using a copper-colored Carex testacea to accent Calylophus. It would also look lovely when planted alongside the blue-flowering Veronica Georgia Blue or near a plush pile of gray-colored
Main Street, from page 1
and much-needed tax revenue to city coffers. “We hope to attract localserving tenants, including perhaps a wine tasting shop, ice cream parlor or other users that will … supplement the downtown experience,” said Chris Garwood, vice president of community and multi-family development for Pacific Union Land in an email to the Pioneer. The shops will be wide and shallow with glass storefronts. Behind them will be a 60-unit assisted living facility and a 30unit memory care unit. The two-story residential project should mean 100-110 residents at full occupancy, Garwood said. The long and tortured path to development of the 2.4 acres in the Town Center began in 2007 with the church’s surprise purchase of the 1.67-acre parcel from local developer Dick Buscaglia. A disgruntled Buscaglia sold the property to the church after the city denied his application for an office building because it didn’t conform to the Town Center Specific Plan (TCSP). The church already owned the adjacent parcel, where they maintained administrative offices in the old Pioneer Inn building. With the Buscaglia
acquisition, the church would have enough property to build a 42,000 sq. ft. complex with a sanctuary, community center, retail space and offices on the combined 2.4 acres. The community offered fierce resistance to an application for the project submitted to the city in 2009. Major objections were raised about congestion, traffic and the sheer size of the project. In 2012, CCC abandoned their plans for the downtown worship complex and bought 4.5 acres at the end of Pine Hollow Road next to Mt. Diablo Elementary School. In 2013, they sold the 1.67-acre parcel back to the city for $1 million. With Pacific Union’s purchase of their remaining parcel for $1.095 million, CCC pastor Shawn Robinson says he will move ahead with plans to build a scaled-down version of their “dream home” on the hill property. “We’ve been searching for a home for 20 years,” said an optimistic Robinson. “I think this is it, and it actually fits our budget.” The sale must be finalized by Sept. 15, after which Robinson will move ahead with the new church. Since 1996, the church has been holding Sunday services at Diablo View Middle School.
lamb’s ear. Calylophus looks awesome trickling over the side of a container. Consider surrounding Cordyline Electric Star with Calylophus. The dark bronze foliage of the Cordyline will contrast nicely with the bright yellow Calylophus. Calylophus has piles of bold color and works well with many plant combinations. It really is an excellent plant for any summer garden. It’s much more appealing than it looks in a nursery pot, so prepare to be thrilled. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. You can contact her with questions or comments by email at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
After buying back the 1.67 acres from CCC, the city began a vigorous effort to entice interest in commercial development. Despite concerted and enthusiastic marketing efforts by the real estate company, Transwestern Property Co. West, no one was interested. Broker Ed Del Beccaro contacted more than 650 retailers, and all had the same response. Not enough land, not enough traffic, not enough people. Hopes for a Trader Joe’s faded. “While most Claytonians enjoy the quaintness and nostalgia of our city, those same variables severely detract from its appeal and viability as a commercial retail market,” says city manager Gary Napper. “It’s often acknowledged that the business of Clayton is residential.” Under the terms of the ENA, Pacific Union has until Nov. 1 to finalize purchase terms and submit the Initial Application. “Change in title ownership is not accomplished by the ENA,” says Napper. “But that will occur when Pacific Union is ready to pull its approved building permits.” The project will then enter the public review process, which could take as long as two years before any actual construction can start. “The ENA provides the roadmap,” says Napper.
August 12, 2016
Pets
eleNA BICKeR
ARF NOTES
As good pet guardians, we would never consider withholding food or water from our cats. But many people forget to provide Mittens with adequate exercise and stimulation. Cats may sleep a lot, but play is an important component of any pet’s health and wellbeing. The release of energy triggered by regular daily interactive play sessions helps Mittens de-stress and helps prevent behavior problems.
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
When the cat plays, everyone stays happy
Cats are subject to a variety of stressors, usually the result of perceived or real invasions of territory. Seeing a roaming cat outside that she can’t chase away, houseguests, adding a new resident (human or animal) or a trip to the veterinarian can all cause anxiety. A common response to stress is eliminating outside the litter box. Another response is redirected aggression – taking out frustration on another cat, the family dog or even guardians. Over time, stress can cause chronic medical problems. Regularly engaging Mittens in play helps alleviate stress and keeps her mentally and physically healthy.
FREE ESTIMATES Without appropriate outlets for a cat’s energy, she may attack ankles, play too roughly or interrupt people’s sleep. Several interactive play sessions per day, especially one timed shortly before bedtime, can help reduce or eliminate these behaviors. Create play sessions to mimic Mittens’ natural hunting behavior. Choose a wand toy or one that imitates the sound
Lucetta and Crystal are this month’s ARF stars
The adoption fee for kittens up to 6 months $125.
LUCETTA
One-year-old Lucetta is shy at first and may take a bit to warm up. Once she does, she becomes a lap dog, very sweet and polite. Lucetta has a positive history with other dogs. The adoption fee for dogs is $250 and includes a discount
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CRYSTAL
on the first six-week session of a manners class. Crystal is a 14-week-old adorable kitten who is looking for a home where she’ll get plenty of petting and playtime. She’s super sweet and will brighten up any home.
of flapping bird wings and make the toy soar around the room. Or, simulate mouse activity by sliding the end of the toy around on the floor in quick, jerky movements. Allow Mittens to pounce and catch the toy and bat it around, then jerk the toy away for her to chase some more. End the play session by allowing Mittens to capture the toy. Avoid laser lights, as it is important for the cat to enjoy the satisfaction of catching the toy as she would prey. Sessions should be long enough for Mittens to get tired – 15-20 minutes, depending on her age and activity level. About five minutes after the end of the session, feed Mittens canned cat food. This mimics the “reward” at the end of a real hunt. And don’t be surprised if Mittens takes a long nap after playing. Schedule several sessions at regular intervals during the day, preferably at times when Mittens is normally active. This allows the cat control over her environment, as she can predict and anticipate her interactive play time. Not only will Mittens have fun, she’ll love spending time with you, too.
Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & 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 inforElena Bicker is the Executive Director mation see our website, of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Founwww.arflife.org, or call (925) 256- dation. She can be reached at (925) 2561ARF (1273) 1ARF.
ACTIVE LISTING
•Lawn & Plant Installation
•Paver Patio & Walkway
•Retaining Walls •Drainage •Low Voltage Lighting
925-672-9955
www.nicholslandscape.com Lic. 542812 Fully Insured
Boyce Nichols - Owner Clayton Resident
925-250-0334 FREE ESTIMATES
Owners Dustin & Kim Waraner Contractors Lic #879423 Arborist Lic WE-7372A
www.waranertreeexperts.com
•229 El Pueblo Pl., Clayton Rent $4,200/mo.
5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2643 sq. ft.
Listing agent: Matt Mazzei
• 627 Carpino Ave., Pittsburg
$345,000
Duplex. Great rental property.
PENDING
Listing agent: Matt Mazzei
• 1662 Saint Lawrence Way, Pleasant Hill
$714,900
4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1211 sq. ft.
Listing agent: Matt Mazzei
• 22 San Carlos Pl., Pittsburg
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1348 sq.ft.
$339,000
Listing agent: Rula Masannat
SOLD
• 2678 Mayfair Ave., Concord
$416,000 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1192 sq.ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei
Matt Mazzei, Jr.,
Paula & Rod Johnstone
Rula Masannat
BRE# 01881269
DRE# 00797857
DRE# 01923757
Broker Associate
Broker/Owner 925-766-6745 matt@mazzeirealty.net
Paula 925-381-8810 Rod 925-286-5765
heypaula10@gmail.com
mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959
925-693-0757 (Main)
l
Sales Agent 415-310-2905 rulawithmazzei@yahoo.com
6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton
925-693-0752 (Fax)
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Club News
Museum flagpole spiffed up for 40th anniversary
Claycord 4-H
Youth ages five to 19 in Clayton and Concord are invited to join Claycord 4-H, a youth development organization offering kids a fun way to learn life skills, leadership and community service. Parents and interested children can attend a new parent’s information meeting from 7 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 30 at Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Road, Concord. Elected youth officers lead monthly general meetings. Club members may also choose to participate in one or more club projects. This year’s projects include poultry, rabbits, goats, sewing, beekeeping, shooting sports, beginning 4H, woodworking, baking, reptiles, pocket pets, hiking and leadership. Ownership of pets is not required to participate in the animal projects. In addition to these activities, there are cross-club and county-wide projects such as
August 12, 2016
FOR THE BEEKEEPING PROJECT, CLAYCORD 4-H MEMBERS (clockwise from left) Catherine wu, william wu, Amelia wu, Clara Brockman, Shea Gallagher, Sophie Brockman and Christian Flamino installed an educational landscape display at the County Fair in Antioch. They won first place for “let’s Keep Buzzing: A Bee Friendly Garden.” Parents in the background are lily wu and Tristan Gallagher.
Ingela Nielsen
JIM SEVEN, MICHAEL WENDORF AND JOHN RUBIALES take a break from their work restoring and repainting the Clayton camp project leadership and meeting of the year is Sept. 13. Museum flagpole.
veterinary science. Claycord 4-H meets on the second Tuesday of each month, September through June, at 6:45 p.m. at Farm Bureau Hall. The first club
Enrollment fee is $75 per youth. For more information, go to ca4h.org or contact Adrienne Busk at claycord@contracosta4h.org. Juliette Hirsch
Clayton Valley Garden Club Honors Waraner Tree Experts
The Clayton Valley Garden Club honored Waraner Tree Experts with a Business Commendation Certificate from the California Garden Clubs, Inc. in July. CVGC thanked Waraner for their generous donation of 20 yards of mulch for the CVGC Hoop House Project where members are growing plants for the Annual CVGC Plant Sale each May. CVGC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Ninety-five members from Concord and Clayton learn about plants and wildlife in gardens and participate in GRANDMOTHER DORTHY MARTIN AND DUSTIN AND KIM community projects and WARANER with sons ethan and wesley receive the Business events. Commendation Certificate from the diablo Foothills district The Clayton Valley Garden director of California Garden Clubs, Inc., Marlene Kinney, Club meets monthly. For more inforand the Clayton Valley Garden Club President, diane mation, go to claytonvalleygardenSelmer, in July. club.org.
Four volunteers repainted and refurbished the Clayton Museum’s 110 plus-year-old flagpole just in time for Flag Day and the 40th anniversary of its dedication on July 4. Clayton Historical Society board members Jim Seven, Michael Wendorf, John Rubiales and Steve Lane took on the project on June 11. The flagpole came from San Francisco about a year after the 1906 earthquake and fire. Several refugees from the quake were given a place to stay at the Olofson property (today’s Curry Creek area) for about a year. They then returned to rebuild their lives and homes in San Francisco. As a token of their appreciation, the refugees loaded the surviving flagpole onto a ferryboat. It crossed San Francisco Bay and was delivered to the Olofson’s primary residence in Oakland. The pole remained in Oakland for some time before being moved to the Olofson’s property in rural Clayton, where the pole was stored for many years.
Nancy E. Bennett
After discussions between Ray Olofson and Bob Hoyer, Clayton’s first mayor, the flagpole was donated to the Clayton Historical Society to be installed in front of the future museum building. Volunteers from the Consolidated Fire Department/Station 11 in Clayton helped move the flagpole to Station 11 and did some prep work. Hoyer finished the prep and restoration at his home. Hoyer spearheaded the museum’s flagpole installation and dedication committee, which dedicated the flagpole on the Fourth of July, 1976. Flags flown at the dedication came from and flew over our nation’s Capitol in Washington (U.S. flag) and our state Capitol (California Bear Flag). After the dedication, the flags were given to Ray Olofson as a gift of thanks for his donation. Steve Lane For more information on the Historical Society, go https://claytonhistory.sharepoint.com
1. Structural and mechanical
It might not be glamorous, but buyers are looking at big-ticket items like the age and condition of the roof, air conditioning and heating systems, water heater, electrical panel and pipes. Now, I’m not saying all have to be replaced, but if any of these components are on their last leg, you might seriously need to consider replacing them as these items could factor into the kind of financing the buyer is able to obtain as well as insurability of the property.
2. Exterior
How does the exterior of your home look? Is there any wood rot? When was the last time it was painted? Are there any stucco cracks that need attention? First impressions start from the outside, and the exterior will show up in photos across a multitude of websites, etc. This is definitely an area worth spending the money.
3. Landscaping
Speaking of the exterior, how does your landscaping look? Are the plantings overgrown, worn and wilted? What about the ground cover?
Coming Soon!
Are the planting beds in need of some fresh mulch, pine straw, rock, etc.? Are there any overgrown tree limbs hanging over the house or blocking the home’s view? For a relatively inexpensive investment, you can transform how your exterior looks by trimming back and freshening things up with new plants and landscaping.
4. Cosmetic
Let’s face it: buyers buy with their eyes, so now is the time to go through the interior in detail. Are there dents and dings on the walls, scratched moldings or worn paint? Now is the time to spruce up the inside with a fresh coat of paint. Pick light, neutral and on-trend colors. Choose a neutral palette that will transition well with any buyer’s furniture. Look at your light fixtures, ceiling fans and light switches — these are relatively inexpensive things to update and replace, yet they go a long way toward creating value. The front door? This is critical! Does it need a fresh coat of paint or new hardware? Consider adding a glass panel to create light that evokes a sunny and warm space.
5. Kitchen
This area is always huge with buyers. Even if the buyers barely know how to boil water, they always envision themselves in the kitchen cooking and entertaining or perhaps auditioning to be the next Food Network TV star surrounded by sleek appliances and cabinetry.
The Crossings Single-story home in desired community. Features 3 bed/2 bath, master suite, open concept kitchen & family room plus a living room for extra space. Renovations in progress.
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the strength and orientation of the jet stream above the moist air mass. The southern mountains of California typically form the northern boundary of monsoon-related rainfall in the state. Several times per year, however, a strong and persistent southwesterly jet stream will steer moisture into the Sierra Nevada and northern mountains of California. It takes a “perfect storm” of jet stream conditions to deliver monsoon moisture to the Bay Area. When that does happen, we can see fantastic lightning displays and beautiful sunsets from our backyards. Unlike its South Asian cousin, the North American monsoon is not a key factor in the economy of the area. It can occasionally cause environmental harm by producing flash floods and landslides, especially in Arizona, New Mexico and Southern California. Monsoon-related lightning strikes have been known to trigger forest fires in the mountains throughout the west. Monsoon season weather patterns impact economic and environmental conditions for several areas around the world. If we get a surge of monsoon moisture during our vacation in the Sierra, it will be a great opportunity for the grandkids to experience and understand this unique weather pattern. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist retired from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
Nancy sells more than 8 times as many homes as the average realtor, call today to learn how.
7 home fixes you must complete before selling The process of getting a property ready to put on the market can seem daunting enough. There’s clearing the clutter, endless amounts of cleaning, organizing and scrutinizing your property with a fine-tooth comb. What needs attention and what can you leave alone? Don’t ignore these seven areas.
Weather,
Here’s where you need to give them the look for less. Think new hardware on cabinets, adding or changing out a dated tile backsplash and updating appliances. Also, consider changing out counters — you might be able to find a reasonably price remnant of a granite slab.
6. Bathrooms
Simple and clean rules the day. Sprucing up your bathrooms to sell can be as simple as having the grout on the existing tile steam cleaned or regrouting where needed. Caulking, new plumbing and light fixtures along with mirrors can create value.
7. Flooring
What you walk on creates value. If you can only afford to make the investment in one significant part of your home, consider updating the flooring. There are a ton of low-cost options to choose from that include wood plank tiles and highly upgraded laminate flooring — think wide plank, light colored or hand-scraped styles. New flooring can totally transform the look of your space and give it the “wow” factor that buyers desire.
In undertaking for sale preparation, strike a delicate balance between what to fix and what to leave alone, but in the end, make the right improvements that will result in a faster sale for top dollar.
Cara Ameer is a broker associate and Realtor with Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. You can follow her on Facebook or Twitter.
Walnut Creek Tons of charm in this single-story Walnut Creek home. Features a 2 bed/1 bath main house and 1 bed/1bath cottage with kitchenette, crown molding, covered porch and a spacious yard.
2055 Altura Dr., Concord Bright and sunny single-story charmer!
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Features 4 bed/2bath, beautiful hardwood floors, spacious kitchen and an elevator!
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881 Brittany Ln., Concord Turn-Key Property!
4 bed/2.5 move in ready home ideally situated near the Walnut Creek border. Features updated kitchen & baths plus a HUGE back yard with endless possibilities.
OFFERED AT $600,000
674 Paso Nogal Rd., Pleasant Hill Retreat-like setting!
PEN
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This warm & inviting Pleasant Hill charmer over looks beautiful natural surroundings. Features 3 bed/2 bath, 1797 sq', expansive Trex deck, soaring cathedral ceilings and rich designer paint colors. A very special home!
Offered at $692,000
We helped over 51 families buy and sell homes again so far in 2016. How can we help you and your family today?
Nancy Bennett, Realtor @ Keller Williams Realty #1 Agent in Concord, #1 Team, Keller Williams East Bay #5 Team Nationally (U.S. & Canada) Keller Williams Agent Leadership Council, Mentor, Faculty Member and Community Sponsor
CalBRE #01399870
Nancy@BennettBetter.com
925.606.8400
BENNETTBETTER.COM