PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
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Editor’s Corner
Pioneer office hit by vandals Sometime during the night of August 3 or the early morning hours of August 4 vandals smashed the front window of the Pioneer office at 6200 F Marsh Creek Road. The damage was discovered around 8 a.m. when Julie Dunn of Lynne French Real Estate opened their office next door. As Julie pushed their door open, the shattered glass in our front door fell to the floor. From the way the glass shattered, we guess it was hit by a hammer in two or three places. At any rate, it was a destructive and senseless act, and we are REALLY MAD. We are just one of scores of victims of the stupid, destructive violence and vandalism that has been plaguing our community for months. The same night our window was smashed, vandals slashed Ed Moresi's (Ed's Mudville Grill) and his next door neighbor's tires in Dana Hills; and the same night a car belonging to one of Ed's employees had its tires slashed in Lower Easley. In the past couple of months, we have seen not only slashed tires, but car windows smashed out, vehicles sprayed with fire extinguishers and 17 American flags stolen from downtown. This isn't funny and it isn't acceptable. Council member Pete Laurence is offering a $1000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever stole the flags after the July 4 Celebration (see page 5). This is
See Vandals, page 7
August 20, 2004
925.672.0500
Village Market sues insurance company
Michael Carson is an officer with the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Department and his wife Graciela (Grace) owns Clip n' Clean pet groomers in
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer VILLAGE MARKET OWNER, SAM SANDHU, left, talks with Contra Costa County Vector Control Technician, Steve Fisher about the extermination efforts at the downtown store.
Sam Sandhu claims Farmers Insurance has acted in bad faith TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Since an early morning fire destroyed the upstairs rooms of the Village Market on January 16, owner Sam Sandhu has been waiting for the insurance company to pay off on the claim. In a lawsuit filed July 20,
Sandhu charges that Farmers Insurance has acted in bad faith by stonewalling the process. He claims that Farmers has repeatedly refused to proceed with his "examination under oath," or to accept documentation substantiating the claim and has continually made unreasonable demands for more time for processing. Sandhu claims that Farmers hopes that by "sitting idly by," they could claim that he failed to provide them with sufficient information to settle the claim. His
suit further asserts that their actions have damaged his reputation in the community. He is suing for $1,000,000. The insurance money is not the only thing Sandhu is waiting for. Contra Costa Consolidated Fire has not completed their report either. Chief Fire Investigator Randy Champion explains that, with 135 cases on his desk, "this fire is a priority, but not as high a priority as a fire with injuries or a fatality. And," he continues, "it's an ongoing investigation with multiple
agencies and attorneys involved, all of which increase the time needed to complete the report." According to Sandhu, Champion told him in April that the fire did not look like an accident, and that he suspected arson. Because of the ongoing investigation, Champion was unable to comment. Without a final report from the fire department, or a completed investigation by the
See Market, page 7
Concord. They have two children, six-year-old, Michael Junior and eight-year-old Cassandra. Like most Claytonians, they lead busy lives. However, they make time for their passion…Peruvian horses. The Carsons own a small
ranch in Diablo Downs in Clayton where they share living space with Blue, their Rottweiller, and three horses, Cara Linda (“Beautiful Face”), Maya Magica and Suspiro R.L.S (“Breathless”). As a family,
See Carson, page 7
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
MICHAEL AND GRACIELA with their two children Cassandra and Michael Jr. and horses Maya and Cara
Juror back to work after three months on Helzer trial TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
RHONDA BASORE
Former Planning Commissioner, Jim Diaz will share the ballot with the incumbents in a race for three seats on the Clayton City Council in November. Julie Pierce, Bill Walcutt and Gregg Manning have all filed papers to run on November 2.
Jim Diaz has been a resident of Clayton for 25 years and served on the planning commission from 1997 to 1999. He served on a special committee to select the police chief in 1999 and as Commanding Officer of the Clayton Police Department's Reserve Division from 1991 to 1996. An active member of the CBCA and a member of the board of directors of the United Way of the Bay Area, he holds a BS and BA degree from the University of Redlands in Southern California. Diaz is married with three grown children.
The Carson family rides together…Peruvian style JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES
Like most of us, Rhonda Basore had been summoned for jury duty before. And, like most of us, work and family were higher on the list than civic duty, so each time, she requested a postponement. But, when the summons came in the mail last April, she didn't call for a postponement. Her government position as Clayton's City Clerk guaranteed that her
regular salary would continue while she was out, and her kids were older. Duty called and this was a good time. So, when Basore reported to the courthouse in Martinez on April 5, she was prepared to serve. And serve, she did. The 40-something mother of three was one of the ten women and two men (whittled down from 500) impaneled in the Justin Helzer murder trial, a high profile and intense three part trial stretching over more than three
months. Justin Helzer was on trial for the brutal and gruesome murders of five people unlucky enough to end up in the sights of self proclaimed "The Children of Thunder," a twisted trio of Justin Helzer, his charismatic older brother Taylor and their roommate Dawn Godman. Their plan to save the world from Satan by spreading peace, joy and love was to be financed by extortion, prostitution, pornography and anything else
that might bring a little money their way. Taylor Helzer and Dawn Godman had already pled guilty to the murders. Taylor was awaiting sentencing and Godman was serving 38 years to life, having traded a possible death sentence for her testimony against the brothers. Justin Helzer was pleading not guilty by reason of insanity. This was no ordinary, garden variety murder trial. First,
See Juror, page 7
Gregg Manning has been active in civic affairs since he moved to Clayton 25 years ago, first volunteering with the Fourth of July Committee and serving as parade chairman for two years. He is currently vice mayor and has served as mayor. He has served on the city's Financial Committee and on the Planning Commission. Manning holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Babson College in Massachusetts and is a Certified Financial Planner. He is married and has one daughter.
Julie Pierce has been a resident of Clayton for the past 20 years and is our city's current Mayor. She has been a councilmember since 1992 and is recognized for her leadership on the Contra Costa Transportation Authority and as chair for the Shaping Our Future Committee. Pierce cochaired the effort to build the new Clayton Community Gym and has been instrumental in negotiating local transportation and land use measures. She is married and has two children.
B i l l Walcutt has lived in Clayton for 22 years. He has served on the City Council as a council member and mayor, and has sat on the Planning Commission. He is also a past Vice President and Treasurer of the Dana Hills Homeowners Association. He holds a BS in Criminal Justice Administration and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from San Diego State University. He’s married with two grown children.
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
Around Town Alana donates found cash
DAN STEINHOFF, engineer; Keld Laustsen,firefighter; Alana Briegleb and Captain Dave George When Alana Talbot Briegleb, age 11, found cash totalling $163 laying on the ground in her front yard in Oakhurst, her first thought was to call the neighbors to see if they had lost any money. When no one in her neighborhood knew about the money, she turned it over to Officer Tim Marchute of the Clayton Police Department and waited to see if anyone else might claim it. For 90 days she waited, thinking about all the things she could do with that amount of money. But
when it came time to pick up the money from the police department, Alana decided to give $100 to the Clayton Fire Department for its Bikes for Tykes program. "It wasn't right to keep it," she said. She donated the money to the fire fighters “because they've been working really hard." And what did she do with the remaining $63? "I bought fishing gear so my dad and I can spend time together and I bought my mom an ice cream cone."
De La Salle student, Matt Hudkins of Clayton has been named a recipient of the Renssaelaer Polytecnic Institute Medal. The Rensselaer Medal, the oldest prize of its kind in the United States, is awarded by more than 2,000 secondary schools throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia. To be honored with the Rensselaer Medal, a student must be a
PATRICK SULLIVAN
MATT HUDKINS
member of the junior class and the high school's single most promising science and math student. Each medallist who is accepted and subsequently enrolls at Rensselaer receives a four-year, $60,000 scholarship.
Clayton girls attend summer science camp
Sullivan heads to Rochester Patrick Sullivan, son of Cheryl and Gary Sullivan of Oakhurst, will be attending the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York. The 2004 graduate of De La Salle High School will major in computer engineering.
Cichurski family brings Spencer Grayson home
Hudkins receives science and math medal
LAUREN OSBORNE CASEY LEEDOM
AND
Local students, Casey Leedom and Lauren Osborn from Diablo View Middle School, were selected to get a preview of college life while learning that math and science can be fun. They
attended Tech Trek Science Camp for Girls, a summer program for eighth grade girls sponsored by American Association of University Women of California (AAUW-CA). The students lived on the campus of Mills College for a week this summer. They attended classes taught by middle school teachers featuring hands on experiments. Women who are professionals in the fields of math, science and technology were guest presenters. AAUW volunteers served as camp directors, nurses and chaperones. Students are nominated by teachers to attend the science, math and technology camp. The local Clayton branch of AAUW provides the funding for the students to attend and makes the final selection of "campers."
Oakhurst parents, Kevin and Karen Cichurski, welcomed a new baby son on July 19. Born at 33 weeks, tiny Spencer Grayson weighed in at only three pounds, fifteen ounces and stretched to 17 ½ inches on tiptoe. Spencer spent the first few weeks in the hospital, but came home on Thursday, August 13, at five pounds, four ounces. Spencer joins his 2 1/2 year old sister, Alexandra.
SPENCER GRAYSON Cichurski, home at last
City honors Jeffrey Quinn The Clayton City Council proclaimed August 4 as Jeffrey E. Quinn day in Clayton. Quinn was honored at The August 3 City Council Meeting where Mayor Julie Pierce presented Quinn and his wife, Kerry and daughter, Madison with the proclamation. Master Sergeant
in the United States Air Force, Quinn served in Iraq from March to July of this year in the area of aero-repair maintenance on the C-5 Galaxy. Quinn also oversaw and managed U.S. and coalition aircraft flows. Quinn is stationed at Travis Air Force Base until early next year.
JEFFREY QUINN, along with his wife Kerry and daughter Madison, accept proclamation from Mayor Julie Pierce.
Don't forget to mail or drop by my office with your entry form for the
New York City Giveaway! Deadline for entries is
August 31st
Black Diamond @ Oakhurst - Spectacular design in this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Summit model. Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. Community pool and spa. $569,980
Eagle Peak @ Oakhurst - Prime location at the end of cul de sac. 4 bedroom 2 baths with nearly 3,000 sq. ft. of living space. Beautiful landscaped backyard with breathtaking views. $825,000
Windmill Canyon - Located on a cul de sac, this 4 bedroom home has hardwood flooring throughout. Outside you will find private landscaped yards. $709,980
Windmill Canyon - 3 bedroom updated single story, beautiful landscaped yards with sports court and large RV/Boat parking. $589,980
Dana Hills - Beautifully maintained home that backs up to greenbelt with dramatic view of Mt. Diablo. 5 bedrooms with one bed and bath located on the main level, spacious master suite. $729,980
Jeffrey Ranch - Tri level with 4 bedrooms, quality features throughout, updated kitchen and newer roof. Beautiful landscaped yards with in-ground pool and deck. $649,980
August 20, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Around Town... Meghan Pardi makes dean’s list at Loyola
Knights Siegel serves on Grand Jury honor Tryon
FRED SIEGEL
Fred Siegel, 34-year resident of Clayton, has been impaneled on the 2004-2005
Contra Costa County Grand Jury. Siegel is returning from last year's grand jury. The grand jury has watchdog responsibilities to ensure that county governmental units are serving the best interests of county citizens, reports Grand Jury Foreperson, Antonio Medrano. He encourages Contra Costa residents who are 18 years and older and have lived in the county for one year to apply for the grand jury. Contact Medrano at (925) 646-2345.
MEGHAN PARDI Clayton resident Meghan Pardi is attending Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. She just completed her Freshman year and was on the Dean's List first and second semester. She is majoring in sociology. Meghan lettered on the women's water polo team. The LMU Polo Team (26-5) played in the NCAA Final Four which was held at Stanford University. LMU beat Stanford 5-4 in the Semifinals and lost to USC 10-8 in the final championship game. Meghan achieved the National Scholar Athlete Award and was selected by her teammates to the LMU Student Athletic Commission.
Claire Tryon, long time Knight of Columbus, was honored at a recent Concord Council meeting. Tryon received a "Special Achievement Award" in recognition of his exemplary works as 2003/04 Youth Chairman for the Oakland Diocese Chapter.
TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER Co-Publishers TAMARA S TEINER Editor J ILL B EDECARRE Assistant Editor and Display Advertising J IM Z EWAN , Sports K AREN L AIBLE , Church News P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Assoc.
Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance.
LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” You can also e-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com
MATT’S TUTORING-All levels, all ages. Also SAT prep. $25.00 /hr. 672-8681
FOR RENT
SERVICES BABYSITTER NEEDED. Peacock Creek family needs babysitter for 2 children, ages 5 & 8. 2-3 weeknights starting at 6:30 for 23 hours. CDL required. Also needs to have some availability on weekends. Salary negotiable based on experience. (925) 673-0733.
PALM DESERT VACATION RENTAL. Marriott Desert Springs Villas. Studio unit available December 25-January 1. Sleeps four. king size bed, queen sofa bed. 1 bath, small refrigerator, microwave, coffeemaker. Pools and spas; golf and tennis available. $125 per night. Call Joanne, 673-9515.
PRIVATE TUTOR. Credentialed Elementary school teacher with experience and references to tutor students K-6 in areas of need: Reading, Math, English as a second language, etc. Contact Tammi (925) 524-0069.
Help Wanted Fantastic Sams (new salon). Cuts, color, perms, free education, flex hours, fun atmosphere. Base plus commission. Great Concord location. Call Sherri, (925) 6828580.
Directory of Advertisers
CLAIRE TYRON receives award from Jack Kavanagh
HOW TO PLACE AN AD P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580
Classified
Abbey Carpets 686-9901 ACME Auto Repair 685-8495 Aegis Senior Living 692-5838 Aircloud Wireless Internet 260-4119 Alise Interior 672-7701 Apronstrings Pet Sitting 798-7621 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm 672-6622 Benton, Mureleen - American Express 685-4523 Burkin Electric 672-1519 CCMT- Contra Costa Musical Theatre 943-7469 Call, J. Richard - Mortgage Broker 937-2300 Central Self Storage 685-2222 Clayton Community Church 673-9060 Clayton Fitness and Tanning 672-2010 Clayton Flowers 682-4664 Clayton Hair Works 672-1500 Clayton Saddlery 672-6100 Clayton Valley Bowl 689-4631 Clayton Valley Shell 672-3900 Clip 'n Clean 676-9355 Computers USA 672-9989 ComUnity Lending 672-5363 Concord Feed 825-9530 Country Dog Boutique 672-6100 Cruise Adventures Unlimited 935-7447 Diamond Terrace 524-5100 Dianne Davis Piano Studio 673-5677 Doman Window Washing 207-8745 East County Glass 1-800-664-4527 Fantastic Sams 682-8580 Fasquelle, Henry, Piano Studio 672-2237 Flannery,Patty - Coldwell Banker Real Estate 210-7480 Fleury's Floor Covering, Inc. 676-1010 French, Lynne - Coldwell Banker Real Estate 672-8787 Graham Family Photo 680-1333 Gregory,Cynthia - Permanent Solution 672-8990 Help You Sell 680-4950 Holy Cross Lutheran Church 686-2000 HomEquity 672-1119 IMC 673-2200 Instant Imprints 825-9815 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty 939-7920 La Veranda Restaurant 524-0011 Linguini's 672-6868 Lyone Construction 827-1520 Main Street Aesthetics 673-8969 Mavericks 602-5600 Mazzei Auto 757-5600 Mike's Auto Body 689-1739 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital 672-1100 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services 280-8563 Nolen, Janet - Custom Artwork 437-1650 Network Service Center (NSC) 672-5009 Norman Joyal Construction 693-0059 Nu Image Painting 672-1777 Ouimet Funeral Home 682-4242 Pacific Coast Electric 429-2123 Pro Home Systems 937-3300 Pro Tech Heating and Air Conditioning 673-3776 R&M Pool, Patio & Garden 672-0207 Robin's Ranches 672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria 947-6105 Smith Barney Citigroup-Gavidia, Frank 930-3872 Smith Bernal Roofing 216-6461 St. John's Episcopal Church 672-8855 Straight Line Imports 335-9801 T&K Images 524-0010 The Dog Smoothies & Sausages 673-5415 The Hauling Company 216-6461 The Maids 798-6243 The Marble Shop 439-6910 Tipperary Construction 216-2679 TLC Pet Grooming 672-2547 Toys, Games and More 673-8634 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance 686-4747 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Remax Real Estate 672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance 672-2300 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty 672-4433 Walcutt, Bill - Prudential Realty 437-5535 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 287-6921 Wine Thieves 672-4003 Wood Rose Academy 825-4644 Young, Susan - All Natural Nails 963-0893 Ygnacio Valley Christian School 798-3131 Ygnacio Valley Mini Storage 689-3238 Zandonella's Restaurant 432-1700
GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517 Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
Tel: (925) 672-4433 Fax: (925) 672-4424
georgevujnovich.com Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty
ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
140 Inverness Way 119 Forest Hill Dr 3025 Windmill Canyon 715 Acorn Drive 508 Myrick Ct 961 Oak Street 928 Kenston Dr 182 Mt. Wilson Wy 10 Mt. Hamilton Ct 226 Stranahan Cir 1518 N. El Camino Dr
$1,200,000 $1,150,000 $650,000 $910,000 $615,000 $700,000 $851,500 $751,000 $599,500 $529,950 $707,250
08/11/04 08/10/04 08/07/04 08/06/04 08/06/04 08/04/04 08/04/04 07/30/04 07/30/04 07/29/04 07/26/04
4,100 3,911 2,053 2,542 1,792 2,468 3,061 2,692 1,740 1,650 1,720
BED/BATH
5/3.5 5/3.5 4/2 3/2.5 3/2.5 5/2 5/4 5/3 4/2 3/2.5 4/3
ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
813 Chert Place 3805 Coyote Cir 905 Condor Pl 1518 N El Camino Dr 3805 Coyote Cir 813 Chert Pl 905 Condor Pl 21 Herriman Ct 41 Fleming Ct 42 Eastbrook Ct 5019 Keller Ridge Dr
$540,000 $400,000 $395,000 $707,250 $400,000 $540,000 $395,000 $799,000 $750,000 $565,000 $560,000
07/23/04 07/23/04 07/20/04 07/26/04 07/23/04 07/23/04 07/20/04 07/20/04 07/16/04 07/16/04 07/15/04
1,749 1,014 1,026 1,720 1,014 1,749 1,026 2,222 2,324 1,720 1,631
BED/BATH
3/2.5 2/2 2/2 4/3 2/2 3/2.5 2/2 4/2.5 4/2.5 4/3 3/2.5
ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
455 Obsidian Way 101 Samuel Ct 212 Mountaire Pkwy 963 Kenston Dr 3057 Windmill Canyon 8016 Kelok Way 1543 N. Mitchell Cyn 145 Mt. Etna Dr 400 Wawona Ln 1216 Buckeye Terrace 8042 Kelok Way
$860,000 $660,000 $745,000 $599,000 $615,000 $765,000 $699,900 $460,000 $805,000 $530,000 $875,000
07/14/04 07/12/04 07/09/04 07/09/04 07/09/04 07/09/04 07/09/04 07/08/04 07/07/04 07/07/04 07/02/04
2,981 2,325 2,960 2,191 1,816 2,237 2,037 1,442 2,966 1,710 2,894
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed
BED/BATH
4/2.5 4/2.5 5/3 3/2 3/2 3/2 4/2 3/2 4/3 3/2.5 4/3
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
The Van Fleet-B Bronson
Family
Personal Service Make s the D ifference Featured H ome
Absolutely Gorgeous detached home in desirable Clayton! This home has everything including: 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ updated baths, and 1,663 square feet of living space. The front entry is maple and this wonderful tile kitchen is just beautiful. You'll enjoy this open floor plan with dining area off the kitchen. The bedrooms have mirrored closet doors and laundry area is located inside. The front, back and side yards are beautifully landscaped with fruit trees, strawberry garden, pond, fountain, hot tub and dog run. Home backs to open space, creeks and trails and has an easy walk to historic downtown Clayton. $549,900
J o s i e V a n F l e e t -B Bronson For superior service and a successful real estate transaction in Clayton or surrounding communities, call Josie, a 20-year Clayton resident and area specialist — The Van Fleet-Bronson Team. Specializing in: Property Management Loans/Refinancing Real Estate Sales - Residential and Investment 2003/2004 Better Business Honor Roll Ranked #56 worldwide of 90,000 RE/MAX Realtors 2004 Heritage Registry of Who’s Who Member, Concord Chamber of Commerce Member, Oakhurst Country Club
Properties A vailable Beautiful One Story Home in Great Neighborhood! Enjoy all that this lovely home in Antioch has to offer including: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,930 square feet of living space, recessed lighting, den, living room, family room with tiled fireplace, dining area, beam ceilings, beautiful spacious tile kitchen and with plenty of cabinets, new floor, island and breakfast nook. The stained glass stays in the master bedroom suite. There's cultured marble and double vanities in both baths and sunken oval tub in the spacious master bathroom. Slider in master bedroom takes you to the private, serene yard with large hot tub, gazebo and Delta views. Nicely landscaped front and back yards, finished 3 car garage with free standing storage cabinets that stay. $489,000
RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Suite D Clayton, CA 94517
925-672-4333 www.CallTheVanFleetTeam.com We l ove r eferrals
Enjoy a wonderful dinner at The Fox and The Fiddle, downtown Clayton, when you refer a successful buyer or seller to Van Fleet-Bronson, RE/MAX Real Estate.
Better Than New! This is an absolutely lovely, 2 bedroom and 2 bath patio home in Concord with 966 square feet of living space. The sellers have taken such wonderful care of this darling home. The kitchen and baths are in perfect condition. Enjoy the spacious living room, dining area, new linoleum floor and the open floor plan that's light and airy. This home has a refreshing cross breeze. Corian counter tops in both baths, mirrored closet doors, central heat and air with 2 ceiling fans, master bedroom has a slider to the beautiful back yard patio. $325,000
SALE ING PEND
Pending Properties 991 Almaden Court 375 Grovewood Loop 1345 Columbia Street 5324 Olive Drive 2037 Sierra Rd #7
3120 Lone Tree Way 3601 Hemingway Drive 2068 Oakridge Lane
Wonderful Cosmetic Fixer! Upgrade yourself and reap the benefits of this 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathroom in Martinez with living room, family room, dual paned windows, alarm system, new tile entry, new shower enclosure in master bath, sliding glass door off the master bedroom takes you to the gazebo. Front and back yard with swimming pool. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity. $459,000
SALE ING PEND
Coming Soon 157 Kilburn Street 2045 Rapallo Way 4845 Wolf Way
Concord sales on the Clayton side of town Address
1615 Ayers Rd
Price
$575,000
Sale Date
SF
Bed/Bath
Address
7/12/2004
1,848
3&2
1544 Bailey Rd
Price
Sale Date
SF
Bed/Bath
$279,000
7/21/2004
915
2&2
1533 Parkwood Pl
265,000
7/19/2004 1,088
2&1.5
3770 Willow Creek Rd
675,000
7/20/2004
1888
4&2
4825 Joelle Drive
428,000
7/28/2004
1,248
3&2
1281 Pine Creek Way
285,000
7/27/2004
1240
3&1.5
4148 Wilson Lane
539,500
7/22/2004
1,656
4&2
5480 Roundtree Dr
266,000
7/23/2004
914
2&1.5
1804 Alicante Ct
452,000
8/4/2004
1,657
3&2
1455 Latour Lane
280,000
7/20/2004
904
2&1
5276 Phillips Ct
489,000
8/6/2004
1,432
3&2
4048 Kimberly Place
398,000
7/19/2004
1244
3&1
1723 Tennyson Dr
515,000
7/19/2004
1,400
3&2
5454 New York
495,000
7/16/2004
1437
4&2
1180 Mardon Ct
600,000
7/14/2004
2,075
4&2.5
4420 Corkwood Ct
594,000
7/16/2004
2130
5&2.5
4638 Lincoln Dr
552,500
8/4/2004
1,798
4&2.5
3641 Clayton Rd
290,000
7/21/2004
1020
3&2
5502 Nebraska Drive
475,000
7/27/2004
1,500
3&4.5
729 Santa Paula Ct
600,000
7/20/2004
1876
4&2
4807 Geneva Ave
462,950
7/23/2004
1,248
3&2
1515 Schenone Ct
300,000
7/15/2004
1070
3&2
4816 Wolf Way
415,000
7/13/2004
1,564
3&2.5
4131 Pickwick Dr
440,000
7/16/2004
1302
4&2
1201 Krona Lane
640,000
7/28/2004
1,866
4&2.5
4805 Clayton Rd
295,000
7/23/2004
896
2&2
4148 Wilson Lane
536,500
7/22/2004
1,656
4&2
5412 Hiddenwood Ct
900,000
7/23/2004
2797
5&3
5128 Black Oak
427,000
7/21/2004
1,103
3&2
5413 Paso Del Rio
550,000
7/21/2004
1629
3&2
5460 Concord Blvd
275,000
7/22/2004
902
2&1
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
August 20, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Police Blotter WEEK ENDING AUG 5 The dates and times shown indicate when the incident was reported to the Police Department. ACCIDENTS 8/02, 3:54 p.m. Eagle Peak Avenue and Keller Ridge Traffic accident. No injuries. 8/03, 4:58 a.m. Marsh Creek Road and Regency Drive Traffic
accident. No injuries. 8/03, 5:51 a.m. Marsh Creek Road and Diablo Parkway. Traffic accident. Injuries. 8/04, 4:37 p.m. Clayton Road. Traffic accident. No injuries. ARRESTS 8/1. 11:38 p.m. Clayton Road and Oak Street. A Clayton male, 22, was stopped for speeding. He was arrested for driving under the influence after failing a field sobriety
La Veranda Café
Northern Italian Cuisine in downtown Clayton Fresh soups, salads, antipasti, pizza and pasta Dinner and lunch daily Brunch on Sunday Children’s menu and take out service available
For reservations call
test with a blood alcohol level over .08. He was transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 8/4, 9:37 p.m. Regency Drive. After responding to a call regarding a large group of juveniles in possession of alcohol, a Clayton male, 19, and two other Clayton males, both 17, were arrested. The nineteenyear-old male was transported to Concord Police Department for booking and the seventeen-year-old males were released to designated drivers to be taken home. BURGLARIES/THEFTS 8/1, 1:56 a.m. Clayton Road. Vehicle theft. 8/1, 1:40 p.m. Mt. Etna and Mt. Dell. Vehicle theft. 8/3, 10:57 a.m. Clayton Road. Grand theft. 8/4, 4:23 p.m. Semillon Circle. Burglary residential. 8/2, 9:11 a.m. Black Diamond Trail and Clayton Road. Grand theft. 8/5, 8 a.m. Keller Ridge Drive. Petty theft. WEEK ENDING AUG. 12 ACCIDENTS 8/07, 11:49 p.m. Clayton Road and Mt. Zion. TrafficaAccident with injuries. ARRESTS 8/06, 12:10 a.m., Kirker Pass Road and Olive Drive. A Clayton male, 41, was contacted in an area
(925) 524-0011 6201 CENTER ST. CLAYTON
where there have been numerous complaints of transients loitering. He was found to have an outstanding arrest warrant for the possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 8/10, 3:06 a.m. Clayton Road. An Oakland male, 45, was observed leaving a store with items that were not paid for. He was arrested and transported to the Martinez Detention Facility for booking. 8/10, 7:02 p.m. Alexander Place and Lydia Lane. After responding to a report of a vehicle driving recklessly in the area, four males were contacted. A 17 and a 19-year-old were Clayton males. A 16 and 17year old were Concord males. The two 17 year olds and the 19 year old were arrested for being in possession of alcohol and a controlled substance. They were released with signed promise to appear. The sixteen year old was released without incident. BURGLARIES AND THEFTS 8/9, 8:57 a.m. Keller Ridge Drive. Vehicle burglary. 8/10, 12:35 a.m. Alicante Court and Concord Blvd. Vehicle theft. 8/10, 9:56 a.m. Frank Place. Vehicle Theft. 8/10, 2:30 p.m. Chardonnay. Petty Theft. 8/11. 11 a.m. Hamburg Circle. Petty Theft.(08/12/04 - 1024 hrs.)
Councilman p osts $1,000 R eward
Monday thru Saturday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
5443 Clayton Road next to Blockbuster
“Serving the Local Community”
The Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA) invites you to enjoy an Oktoberfest weekend Sat. Oct. 2 from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Sun. Oct. 3 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. in downtown Clayton. Enjoy the large Biergarten tent and relax with a mug of premium German beer or glass of fine wine. Dance to the music of The Internationals, a band that has played at the Munich Oktoberfest. Try the delicious Bavarian food and shop on Main Street among the
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many art vendors. There will be a Kinderland with rides, rock climbing, face painting and a Pumpkin Patch. 4-H children will display their prized animals. Win a trip for two to Germany in the raffle. Admission and parking are free. The CBCA is a non-profit organization that supports youth athletics, scout troops, police reserves, the Clayton Library, town beautification, youth scholarships and other worthwhile causes in and around the City of Clayton.
Please excuse our asphalt A $500,000 street maintenance project on selected Clayton streets is set to begin August 25 and will last about five days. The streets that will be effected are: Oakhurst Drive, Eagle Peak Avenue, Eagle Peak Place, Brandywine Place, Forest Hill Drive, Inverness Way, Indian Wells Way, Peacock Creek Drive, Lone Pine Court, Joscolo View, Pebble Beach Drive, Silverado Court, Torrey Pines Place, Ohlone Heights, Herriman Drive, No. Mitchell Canyon Road, Diablo Parkway, El
673-7350
Insurance Management Corporation
Oktoberfest comes to town
$500,000 road improvements to begin.
Clayton Councilman Pete Laurence is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals who stole the American flags from downtown Clayton on July 6. If you have any information, please call the Clayton Police at
672-4003
Page 5
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Portal Drive, No. El Camino Drive, Atchison Stage Road, Bridlewood Court, and Main Street. Striping, where applicable, will follow in one to two weeks. Overlayment of pavement begins August 27 for three to four days on Easley Drive and Mountaire Parkway. Manhole raising will follow one to two weeks later. “The City apologizes in advance for any inconvenience during this maintenance work” says City Manager Gary Napper. He asked that Claytonians keep in mind that the half million dollars is being spent to improve our infrastructure. “Please excuse our asphalt!” he says.
Pfister asks for blood donations Jason Pfister, 2002 graduate of Clayton Valley High School, has just completed his introductory training as a Red Cross Volunteer and has been providing Donor C a r e services for the Pleasant Hill center. Jason JASON PFISTER is appealing to every healthy person over 17 who weighs at least 110 pounds to donate blood. Call 1-800-GIVE LIFE to make your appointment.
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Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
Artichokes... The incredible, edible thistle! The spring artichoke harvest is winding down, but the fall harvest will soon be here. Castroville, the self-styled “Artichoke Center of the World,” and other California locales produce nearly all of the country’s prickly but sublime “pincushions.” Food historians trace the artichoke back to Sicily, or ancient Carthage (now Tunisia) in the Mediterranean, while others remain convinced it came out of the Middle East. The name is most likely of Arabic origin, al-qarshuf, while the Italians refer to the vegetable as carciofo and the French, artichaut. Artichoke cultivation spread north from Sicily and reached Tuscany in the mid-15th Century. It is claimed that Catherine de Medici introduced the vegetable to the French court when she became the teenage bride of Henry II. In the 16th Century, it was scandalous for women to eat artichokes. They were thought to possess aphrodisiac properties and were reserved for men, but Catherine defied popular convention and ate them openly in court. One other historical anecdote of interest was the “mafia” connection in importing California artichokes to New York in the 1920s. Ciro Terranova, the self-styled “Artichoke King,” purchased all the product coming from California and made a 30 to 40 percent profit by terrorizing distributors, produce mer-
chants, and even the growers themselves. The ensuing “artichoke wars” led Mayor La Guardia to declare the sale, display and possession of artichokes in New York illegal. However, La Guardia loved the vegetable so much that he lifted the ban after only one week. In folk medicine, artichokes are believed to have diuretic and deodorizing properties. In Turkey, artichoke derivatives are used to detoxify the liver and treat hepatitis. They are high in fiber, vitamins and phytonutrients. Interestingly, one antioxidant compound, cynarin, convinces the taste buds that a sweet taste lingers. Wine and artichokes are actually contraindicated because of cynarin. Wait a half hour before imbibing to allow the palate to clear. The artichoke is actually a flower head that has not budded. The fibrous outer leaves (bracts) protect the bristly inner thistle (“choke”) and luscious “heart.” The peeled stem in immature and just ripe artichokes is also quite tasty. The small artichokes from farther down the stem can be as small as two to three inches, or weigh up to 2¼ pounds! The round or “globe” artichoke is most popular, and I can’t wait to find those that are flattened and dimpled on top as they seem to have a large creamy heart. I’m fond of “frost-kissed” artichokes, too, as they have a wonderfully sweet flavor. The simplest way to eat an artichoke is to remove the bracts (leaves) one at a time,
dipping the fleshy end in a vinaigrette or flavored mayonnaise, and pull the bract through your front teeth, removing the flesh. When you get to the tall, thin leaves, pull them off to reveal the thistle.
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
Cut that away and clear away the fibrous base until you get to the heart or bottom. Cut this up for dipping, or reserve for salads or cooked dishes.
WARM ARTICHOKE DIP 1 small glass jar or can of artichoke hearts (in water) drained and chopped ¾ c mayonnaise ¾ c sour cream ¼ c minced onion ½ tsp thyme 1-2 cloves garlic, minced 1 c grated Parmesan cheese 1 c buttered breadcrumbs Mix together all ingredients except breadcrumbs. Spread into 8x8 or 9x9 glass baking dish and top with breadcrumbs. Bake at 325°F for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly. Serve
Save Hair there clothes to buy. Save onon thethe hair...there areare stillstill clothes to buy. Parents, your kids don’t get graded on style in school, but it helps to send them off looking their best. At Fantastic Sams, kids can get their hair tipped, spiked, or styled anyway they want.
CONCORD / CLAYTON 5100 Clayton Rd A-13 925.682.8580 M– F 10 – 7 • Sat. 9 – 5
Adult Cut
at
y to nR d
P er rk
Ki
Includes: Shampoo and Cut Limit one person per coupon. Not Valid with other specials. Long hair extra. Valid only at participating locations. Expires: 09/17/04
e Tr
C la
Ygnacio Valle y
d
vd
7
95
Bl
$
located in the Vineyard Shopping Center near K-Mart & Albertson's
R
s Rd as
•
Sun.10 – 4
warm with tortilla chips (or the new baked pita chips I just saw at Costco this week). STUFFED ARTICHOKES 3 large or 4 medium artichokes ½ lb prosciutto, diced 3 c seasoned breadcrumbs ½ c each Parmesan and Romano cheese, grated ½ c green onions, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 Tbsp parsley, minced ½ tsp salt ½ tsp cayenne pepper ¼ to ½ c virgin olive oil
CITY OF CLAYTON IS NOW ACCEPTING COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION APPLICATIONS FOR 2004-2006 Appointments currently held by: Barbara Dwyer, Sebastian Jacobs, Linda Smith,Natalie Harley, student member Will expire June 30, 2004. The two-year terms are from July 1, 2004 until June 30, 2006 Requirements and Responsibilities: 1. The stipend for Community Services Commissioners is $75 per month (when a meeting is held); the alternate and student members are volunteer positions. 2. The applicant must be a resident of Clayton. 3. The Community Services Commission meets the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m., and from time to time may have more than one meeting a month. 4. Applicants should demonstrate service and dedication to the community. 5. The Community Services Commission is an advisory body to the City Council, is responsible for recommending user fees and policies for use of City facilities and sponsored community activities. 6. The Community Services Commission also helps coordinate the Fourth of July celebration; Clayton Clean Up Days; and New Years Eve celebration. How to Apply: In person: Clayton City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail By mail: Call City offices at 925/673-7300 E-mail: contact rbasore@ci.clayton.ca.us City's web site: www.ci.clayton.ca.us (under blue tab) Return the completed application to the City Clerk.
Clean and trim the top and barbs, remove woody outer leaves and trim stem so the artichoke sits on its base. Gently pull open at center and trim out the choke. Combine remaining ingredients and press stuffing between leaves and in the center. Add 1 inch of water to a medium deep skillet or stovetop casserole dish just large enough to hold artichokes. Pour generous amount of olive oil over each artichoke. Bring water to a boil, cover, reduce heat and steam artichokes for 20-35 minutes or until the stem end pierces easily with a knife. Serve warm with extra olive oil for dipping.
Just over the hill on the beautiful Delta View Golf Course, enjoy Italian dining at its finest. Lunch $9.45 Dinner $11.65
5
95
Includes: Shampoo and Cut Limit one person per coupon. Not Valid with other specials. Valid only at participating locations. CP082004 Expires: 09/17/04
CP082004
Most salons independently owned and operated, ©2004 FS Concepts, Inc. www.fantasticsams.com
Lunch $9.15 Dinner $11.45
2222 Golf Club Road, Pittsburg (925) 432-1700
Linda Wyner is an attorney in Walnut Creek by day, and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com
•Banquet Rooms •Off-site Catering
WHAT’S THE MEANING OF LIFE? Why am I not fulfilled? How do I deal with guilt? Can I ever forgive?
Kid’s Cut
$
Lunch $10.45 Dinner $12.65
You’re invited to share a dinner and discuss the answers to these questions and more at Clayton Community Church. You’ll find a safe and relaxing atmosphere in which to explore your questions of faith. It’s a party for everyone — atheists, agnostics, people exploring spiritual questions, those with little or no faith background, and those who want to brush up on the basics. We’ll meet for 12 weeks, but there’s no pressure
to attend every weekly dinner — it’s okay to just come and take a look.
THE DINNER
IS
F REE
AND THE EXPERIENCE IS INVALUABLE !
Starting FRIDAY, September 10th, 2004 6:00 PM -- 8:00 PM (dinner included)
6055 Main Street, Clayton Let us know you’re coming:
673-9 9060 e-mail alpha@claytoncc.com or call our office at 925-6
August 20, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Blue ribbon committee grapples with maintenance standards LINDA PINDER Blue Ribbon Committee and Clayton Community Services Commission Special to the Pioneer
Several months ago, the Clayton City Council established a committee of citizens to take a close look at the policies and operations of the City's Landscape Maintenance District. Clayton voters established the District in 1997 to maintain the City's landscaping and associated facilities. Specifically, the District is responsible for repair, removal and replacement of plants and for the health and
beauty of the landscaping. The maintenance and servicing of the landscaping and associated facilities include the repair, removal or replacement of plants and trees, irrigation and the furnishing of water, trimming, spraying, fertilizing and treating for disease or injury and the removal of trimmings, rubbish, debris and other solid waste. The District will expire in 2007 unless the voters renew it. Last November, in response to citizen's concerns, the City Council appointed a Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee to review and evaluate the operations and funding of the
District. The City also charged the Committee with crafting a strategic plan for the long term and to come up with recommended landscape maintenance standards. The Committee has reviewed the current maintenance standards for the city's landscaping and found them seriously inadequate and is recommending stepped up maintenance levels. Below is a table comparing the current maintenance standards with the new standards recommended by The Committee. As the comparison clearly shows, there is a significant difference between the existing maintenance standards
and those proposed by the Committee. And it will come as no surprise that there will also be a significant increase in the cost to implement the proposed standards. The Committee is currently "fine tuning" their evaluation of the standards and are in the process of preparing the cost estimates. We welcome input from the citizens of Clayton in helping to define what the landscape maintenance standards should be. We invite all interested parties to attend our next meeting, on Monday, Aug. 23 at 7 p.m. in the meeting room at the Clayton Community Library.
Current Standard
Proposed Standard
Mowing of turf/lawn areas
Once every 2 weeks
Every week
Shrub trimming
Once every 18 months
3 times each year
Tree trimming
Crape myrtles and oleanders annually; everything else, as needed for safety
Annually; with extra trimming as needed to trim trees away from walkways and signs within 1 month of request; stake up all tress within 1 month of request
Fertilize
Lawn/turf annually, other areas not at all
All areas 2 times a year
Irrigation repairs
As needed and available
Check complete system 4 times a year; adjust controllers once each month; repair any broken water lines within 72 hours of request; provide irrigation system upgrades over time as funding allows.
Landscape replacement
Spring planting of annuals at Fountain and downtown raised planters. No funds for regular landscape replacement
Plant annuals 3 times a year in District flower beds; weed and cleanup beds and planters once a month
Weed abatement
Spot spray weeds every two months
Spray pre-emergent in all landscape areas 2 times a year; spot spray landscape areas every 6 weeks; pull any weeds over 1 foot every 6 weeks.
Trails
Weeds cut down once in late spring or early summer; no trail repairs done
Spray pre-emergent along trails 2 times a year; spray 'Round-up' along trails 2 times a year; complete trail repair and inspection once a year; periodic trail repair and inspection 3 times per year; cut down weeds along sides of trails 2 times a year.
Open space fire abatement
Cut down weeds/grass once each year in late spring or early summer
Cut down weeds/grass 2 times a year 30 feet from fence lines, and along major trails and creeks.
Market, from page 1 insurance company, he can't move forward, Sandhu said. "No one can live without income," laments Sandhu. "I have to take a loan on my house to pay the bills. I am the victim and I'm being treated badly." Marcus Merchasin, Sandhu's attorney, says that indications of problems with the insurance company first surfaced when Sam returned from a month long visit to India that began the week following the fire. Sandhu had scheduled the trip to return his mother's ashes to India months before the fire and had cleared the trip with the insurance company before leav-
ing. When he returned, he was apparently criticized for "hiding out in India,” said Merchasin. "There has been "murky, innuendo type stuff coming from the insurance company and investigators of the kind that would have made Senator McCarthy proud. Sam is an honorable, dignified man. He's done nothing in life but work and take care of his family. He deserves better." Since the fire, the store has been broken into three times. Until recently, there were still hundreds of bottles of unopened liquor and wine and cartons of cigarettes left in the store, mak-
Juror, from page 1 the crimes were extraordinarily brutal and gruesome, and second, it was to proceed through three phases with the same jury. The first phase was to determine if Helzer was guilty of the murders. If the jury found him guilty, then the trial would proceed to the sanity phase. If the jury found he was sane, then the same jury would decide whether he should get the death penalty or life in prison. The jury deliberated for less than one day before finding Helzer guilty of the murders as well as of kidnapping, robbery, extortion and drug possession. Then, deliberating for two days, they found him legally sane. Basore recalls her deep concern at being impaneled on this jury. "When I got selected, I wondered how on earth I would be able to make a decision this big," she said. But, her fears were somewhat calmed by the judge's instructions. "We got a list of rules, very black and white. It made it much easier." During the sanity phase, the jurors had to distinguish between mentally insane and legally insane. They heard from psychiatrists and pondered test results, but the tests presented by both sides con-
firmed that Helzer was legally sane. The sanity phase really lacked a defense, said Basore. "I kept wanting them to give me something. When I heard ‘the defense rests,' I thought there would be more. I wondered why we never saw Taylor." It was clear to the jury that Helzer knew what he was doing was wrong and therefore, was legally sane, making him eligible for the death penalty. Basore, a lively, straightforward woman with a ready smile and a strong sense of duty, was now called upon to make the ultimate decision–should this man live or die. She had gone into the trial with a completely open mind about the death penalty. She had no particular bent one way or the other. "I told the attorneys in my interview that it would all depend on the evidence and the circumstances," she said. Witnesses spoke of mitigating factors in Helzer's history. He was from a good home, had a solid Mormon upbringing, showed respect and had never before been in trouble. However true those things were, there were still five people dead and Basore had been
ing the boarded up building an attractive target for burglars. Additionally, because of the perishables left in the coolers and deli case, the store was overrun by rats. "The insurance company told me not move anything after the fire, to just leave it the way it was," said Sandhu. He has since cleaned out the store and hired an exterminator, incurring more out of pocket expense. The County Health Department now says that everything left in the store, including unopened bottles of wine, shelving, deli cases and coolers must be destroyed. Contra Costa County Vector Control Technician Steve Fisher explains that most of the metal
fixtures are corroded with rust likely contaminated by rat urine and droppings. They cannot be sterilized and reused. Bill Greenspan, the public adjuster hired by Sandhu in January, can't understand the delays. "I was the adjuster on the Santana Row Fire (in San Jose in August 2002). That was a $130 million loss and it was settled in 14 months even though they never knew the cause and origin." Damage estimates in the Village Market range from $250,000 to $409,000. Farmers Insurance declined to comment on pending litigation, according to Mary Flynn, spokesperson for Farmers.
sitting in the courtroom for three months with the surviving family members. "It happened over days," said Basore. "It wasn't just a spur of the moment thing. He didn't just react in a moment of anger and shoot someone. He thought about it and went back and cut them up." In a highly charged and very emotional decision, the jury recommended the death penalty. Why was this such a tearful conclusion? It was all the stress coming out, she explained. It was seeing the family members every day during the trial and not wanting to show emotion. It's hard to look at that stuff (photos of the mutilated bodies) and not react. "The whole three months was so surreal," said Basore, "like I was in a different world." The trial also took a toll on her family. Stretching over most of the summer, vacation plans went by the wayside and much of the summertime parenting chores were picked up by husband Duane. But the heaviest burden for Basore was in not being able to talk about her experience. "It was so intense and all consuming and then at the end of the day, I went home and couldn't talk about it." It was hard also on her three children, Kyle, 19, Sean, 16 and Amber, 13. "I'd come home and the kids could see I was upset and had been
crying, and I couldn't tell them what was going on." She did, however, take Sean and Amber to court with her for one day. She picked a day where she was pretty sure there wouldn't be any gruesome pictures or testimony. "Sean loved it and Amber was bored to death," she laughed. "But it was good for them to see how the system works." She has high praise for both the attorneys and the judge. "We were all treated so respectfully and professionally. And there was so much evidence and things to prepare on both sides. I can see why it took four years to get to trial." Basore is now back to work in her position as Clayton's City Clerk. For the first few weeks of the trial, she tried going in to her office in the evenings and on weekends to catch up, but the strain just became too much. "I needed to focus on the trial and I just couldn't do both." Asked if her encounter with the judicial system was mostly positive or mostly negative, she replies with an unqualified, "positive!" "I was amazed to see how the process works. We are so lucky to have this system. I really want to tell people that if they have the opportunity to sit on a jury they'll be amazed; they'll be proud to be Americans.”
Page 7
Carson, from page 1 they ride, show and breed going and has no fear," he adds. Peruvian Pasos. Michael Grace remembers riding in the explains that the Paso exhibits Clayton 4th of July Parade and the "100 percent natural gait" holding four-month-old that every purebred Peruvian Cassandra on her hip. inherits. The four-beat lateral "Cassandra was able to sit on a gait is considered the most saddle when she was two years comfortable ride in the world. old," he adds. "It's a 400-year-old breed Even though young Michael and has only been in the United States for about 40 or 50 years," says Michael. While the Peruvian Paso horse has its own legendary lore, Michael and Grace have a story that reads like a tender tale of romance. Graciela was one of six siblings raised on a ranch in a small town called Chacracerro, near Lima, Peru. Michael grew up in the Bay Area on a ranch in PERUVIAN Paso, Suspiro Clayton and had his first horse at the age of nine. Junior talks more about riding His parents became interested his dirt bike, he also likes to in the Peruvian horse and began ride horses with the family. breeding and training at their "We ride several times a week," ranch. says Grace. The Peruvian Paso horse All of their horses are 100 was always a part of Grace's percent Peruvian. Michael life. Since her family had no car plans to breed, Suspiro, the when she was young, she trav- young black Paso with both eled around town by horse and Maya and Cara. Michael and learned to ride at an early age. Grace handle the training and Her father, Silvano Taipe, was the whole family pitches in to well known for his expertise in help with grooming, feeding breeding and showing Peruvian and cleaning the stables. Paso horses. In the mid '70s, The Peruvian tradition is Silvano came to the United evident throughout their States to work and settled in Southwestern-style home. Calistoga where he ran his own Walls are lined with photos of ranch. The first horse he Grace's father and Michael in trained, Suspiro, was a United competition as well as works of States Champion. art showing the Peruvian Paso Michael's parents eventually in all its beauty. On shelves sit hired Silvano as a trainer at Peruvian pots, glassware and their ranch. Michael became an historical artifacts. Peruvian expert rider and , as a teenager, saddles are stored in the family earned back-to-back titles of room. They are works of art, high point National U.S. hand-carved with intricate Champion. details. Draped over one of the Grace and Michael met saddles is a 100 year-old black when Grace's father brought "pellon" or saddle blanket. her to the United States for a "Everything on the saddle better life and to get an educa- has a purpose," says Michael tion. She stayed at the ranch referring to the history of the while attending Los Medanos Peruvian horse and the conCollege. At the same time, quistadors in the 16th century. Michael was attending Los The leather tailpiece and coverMedanos Police Academy. The ings were used to keep brush matchmaking began long from injuring the horse's backbefore Grace arrived in the side; triangular stirrups were states. Michael was shown pho- used to carry water or a candle tographs of Grace and there in the desert. Leather eyepieces was talk about them getting with silver clasps drape majestogether. tically around the horse's head. He was smitten the first "They were used to cover the time he saw her, however horse's eyes at nighttime or to Grace resisted his attempts to calm a fearful horse," explains court her. She was shy, home- Grace. sick and trying to concentrate Traditional Peruvian riding on her education. " I thought of garb is all white with ponchos, Michael as a brother," she straw hat, scarf, boots and a smiled. They finally began to belt. Rider's clothing is intendate and after two years, tionally kept simple to place Michael won her over. The cou- emphasis on the horse and the ple married in 1992 and their rider's ability. wedding reception took place Along with its unmistakable on the Carson Ranch. gait, the Peruvian horse is Peruvian horses, which known for its 'Brio', a special were an integral part of combination of spirit, strength Michael's and Grace's lives and gentleness. When the growing up, are now the main Carson family gets together in focus of their family time their traditional white garb ridtogether. They breed, train, ing their Paso horses there's an show and care for their horses unspoken respect….owner for as a family. Daughter horse, horse for owner. Michael Cassandra has already earned a talks about their relationship junior class honorable mention with each other and with their ribbon and is hoping to ride horses as "natural." "Riding Maya at a competition in Napa keeps us together, it's wholeat the end of this month. some," he says. "People I know "Cassandra is a natural,' says who grew up with horses, grew her dad. "She's calm and easy up better."
Vandals, from page 1 twice the $500 value of the flags, but that isn't the point. If the jerks know there is a "bounty" on this kind of behavior, it may make stealing and smashing a little more risky and a lot less fun. $1000 is a good chunk of change. As we sweep up glass and wait for the glass company to come nail a piece of plywood over our front door, we're mad as hell and we're scrambling up on Pete's bandwagon. We are offering $500 (also a pretty
good chunk of change) for information leading to the arrest of whoever smashed in our front window. And we encourage others who have been victims of this kind of destructive, stupid idiocy to do the same. If you have any information about our smashed window or the stolen flags (or any other acts of vandalism), call the Clayton Police at 673-7350. Tamara Steiner Editor and Publisher
Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
Contingency offer can cause deal to fall apart One reason home sellers like contingency-free offers is that they minimize the opportunities for a sale to fall apart. A contingency is a condition of a purchase contract. It must be satisfied before the sale can go through. If a contingency can’t be satisfied, the person who benefits from the contingency can usually withdraw from the contract without penalty. Most, but not all, contingencies in a typical home purchase contract benefit buyers. The most common buyer contingencies are for financing, inspections and for the sale of another property. If the buyers’ offer includes a financing contingency but they can’t get financing, they can withdraw from the contract. In this case, their deposit, or “good faith” money, is usually returned. In today’s sophisticated real estate marketplace, deals rarely fall apart because the buyers can’t get financing. Most buy-
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ESTATE
ers are pre-qualified or preapproved before they shop for a home. Occasionally, a home doesn’t appraise for the purchase price, but it’s rare that willing buyers and sellers can’t find a way to make the deal work. However, if the buyers’ ability to complete the purchase is dependent on the sale of anoth-
er property, there’s a higher chance that the transaction will fail. For this reason, many sellers won’t accept this kind of offer. But if they do, the contract usually includes a release clause that allows the sellers to continue to offer their property for sale to other buyers until the contingency is lifted. Buyers who are having difficulty finding a home to buy should make certain that their agent exposes them to listings that have a sale pending with a release clause. If you make an offer that’s acceptable to the sellers, and the first buyers can’t perform because their home isn’t sold, your offer will go into primary position and the first buyers will have to withdraw. The biggest reason that home sales fall apart these days is because of defects discovered during the buyers’ inspections of the property. An inspection contingency gives the buyers
permission to inspect the property to their satisfaction. When defects are discovered that the buyers are unwilling to correct at their own expense, the purchase contract becomes subject to negotiation. In this situation, the buyers usually present the sellers with a set of conditions under which they will remove their inspection contingency and close the sale. This may involve a price reduction or a commitment from the sellers to correct some or all of the defects. If the sellers agree, the deal stays together. If they don’t, and the buyers and sellers can’t come to an agreement, the deal is off. The house goes back on the market. A contingency that benefits the sellers can also result in an aborted transaction. For instance, if the sellers condition their sale on their ability to purchase another property, they can withdraw from the sale if they are unable to find a suit-
able replacement property. Most buyers would be reluctant to accept such a provision because there’s no guarantee that the sellers will perform. Buyers who do agree to such a contingency would be wise to include a provision in the contract that allows them to withdraw from the contract if they find another property to buy. Sometimes deals fall apart for reasons that are not covered by contract contingencies. For example, a buyer might get
cold feet and decide not to proceed with the purchase. In this case, before withdrawing, you should seek advice from a knowledgeable real estate attorney. Lynne French is a realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions contact her at: Phone (925) 6728787 or E-mail: Lynne@LynneFrench.com
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In a new age of credit, spend wisely Fifty years ago, debt was rare. Your parents most likely paid cash for their first homes and cars with family and friends as their financial backers. That was then, debt is now. Today, debt and instant credit are part of our everyday vocabulary. Americans are carrying a total of $683 billion in credit card debt alone according to a recent MSN Money report. That is not the amount charged every month but rather the outstanding unpaid balances on which people pay interest. THE CASE FOR CREDIT In today’s modern economy consumers are using credit cards as a form of payment for just about everything, from paying your rent to purchasing gas, groceries and fast food. There are many reasons for this trend, first and foremost it’s convenient. Not having to carry cash with you wherever you go is often an easier and safer way to make purchases. Using cards can also be rewarding if you have aligned your card spending with an attractive rewards program that pays you back (perhaps with a cash rebate or with double rewards points) for your purchases. Credit cards also help to establish a history of financial responsibility and are often mandatory for certain situations, such as booking a hotel room or renting a car - they are a modern necessity. Those who don’t have any credit cards at all can be denied a loan or credit when they really need it. But knowing that credit cards are now an integral part of our modern financial lives also begs the question - how many credit cards should you have? A good start would be to have far less then the Guinness Book of World Record holder, Walter Cavanagh who has 1,397 individual valid credit cards. Typically, you should consider holding approximately three to six credit cards, but unfortunately there is no magic number. Every person has his/her unique financial situation and individual credit card needs, depending on their spending habits and lifestyle, business needs and more. SPENDING WISELY FACTORS TO CONSIDER Simplicity: Make sure you can keep track of the credit cards you have and pay them on time. Owning fewer cards may make it easier to have control over your total debt load. You should think twice about having numerous credit cards for individual retail stores and gas stations. These stores often accept the credit cards you already own. Plus, retail and gas sta-
tion cards tend to charge a higher interest rate than other cards. Better Credit Rating: The common misconception is that in order to build a good credit rating you need to have more cards with higher credit limits. But having too many cards with high credit limits or having high unpaid balances can actually limit your access to car or mortgage loans. Reduce Temptation: The more credit cards you have, the easier it is to over spend and get into debt problems. Rewards: Building rewards through loyalty programs with a few choice cards can build more valuable redemption opportunities than if collected on fewer cards. You can redeem points for airline miles, hotels rooms, and gifts. MANAGING YOUR CREDIT CARDS AND DEBT Regardless of how many credit cards you have it is important to use them responsibly. To help, here are some strategic steps for opening and managing credit card accounts: Step 1: Know Your Cards: Before you sign up for a card, ask yourself some key questions, such as: Does your credit card have an annual fee? Are there grace periods? What are the penalties if you are late or miss a payment? How valuable is the rewards program for the things that are most important
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FINANCIAL SENSE to you? Then find out exactly what your credit limit and interest rates are for your credit cards. Step 2: Pay In Full. A good strategy is to have credit cards for convenience and pay the balance each month in full. If you are unable to pay in full each month, make sure to pay more than the minimum each month. Another option is to use a charge card, which is payable in full each month. This can help you stay on budget and, because you pay it off each month, there’s no interest charges. Step 3: Keep Your Credit Spending in Check. A good rule of thumb to keep your spending in check is to make sure your credit card payments will not total more than 15 to 20 percent of your current income, after
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housing costs. Step 4: Canceling a Card. If you need to cancel a card do not simply cut it up. You must notify your credit card company that you want to cancel otherwise the card will remain on your credit report. Step 5: Seek Help. A qualified financial advisor can help you create and manage a comprehensive financial plan to help you reduce your debt, use credit cards responsibly and reach your long term goals. Mureleen Benton is a Certified Financial Planner. Call her with questions at 685-4523
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Back to school
Tips to help take the stress out of tests (WMS) — Say the word “test” to one of the millions of high school students entering their junior or senior year and that can only mean one thing — college entrance exams. More than 60 percent of high school seniors continue on to college, up significantly from 20 years ago. But this rite of passage can rest heavily on the American College Test (ACT) and SAT scores, as the competition to get into one of the 3,000 colleges across the nation grows fiercer each year. Standardized tests can be intimidating. Anxiety and stress can provide distractions, which often significantly impact a test’s outcome. Preparation and planning are critical for success so that’s why it’s important to keep stress at a minimum when studying for these exams. “College preparation, par-
ticularly test-taking, can be an anxious time for students, but it doesn’t have to be,” says Joyce E. Smith, executive director of the National Association for College Admission Counseling. “With proper guidance from parents, counselors and others involved in the student’s academic life, the path to college can be a lot less angst-ridden than expected. Remember that standardized tests are only one of many factors — such as grades in college prep courses, overall grade point average and class rank — that are considered by admissions offices.” Taking the stress out of tests can be simple. Students can try these helpful tips: Prepare early. Taking challenging courses in high school is one of the best ways to pre-
pare for the exams. Read, read, read. Everything from newspapers to magazines to books will strengthen your reading comprehension and vocabulary. Read for at least 15 minutes a day. Practice. Take the practice
test in the materials received from the companies that produce the SAT or ACT. You can also find tests online or in books (check your guidance office or school library). Don’t load-up. Cramming can cause additional anxiety. Get enough sleep, eat well and be rest assured that you are ready. Bring the right tools. Set out everything you need the night before the test, including your No. 2 pencil. A selfadvancing mechanical pencil with No. 2 lead that requires no clicking can minimize trips to the pencil sharpener and keep you focused on the job at hand.
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Page 9
A pun just for fun Mahatma Gandhi, as you know, walked barefoot most of the time, which produced an impressive set of calluses on his feet. He also ate very little, which made him rather
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
Hikers’ Haven
Morgan Territory Regional Preserve – Highland Ridge Trail Welcome back to what I like to call my little slice of nature, allowing me to share all my outdoor experiences with you readers. With that said, this week I’d like to
shaded picnic tables and restroom facilities. Continue on as you gently switch back and forth while gaining elevation as you rise to Highland Ridge. Once again I was astounded to find not one other person on the trail during this entire hike. I felt like the park was all mine, so if it is solitude you are looking for, this is definitely the place to find it. Standing atop Highland Ridge gives you the opportunity to see for miles in every direction. My favorite view is the westward direction with a series of trails leading away towards Mount Diablo Photo courtesy Kevin Parker standing in the GNARLY TREE near the top of the distance—really Highland Ridge Trail an entirely different view of focus on Morgan Territory Diablo compared to what you Regional Preserve. This see everyday while in expanse of land, named for Clayton. Highland Ridge Jeremiah Morgan, boasts over Trail heads due west as you 90 species of wildflowers and make many ascents and views of Mount Diablo to the descents along the ridge. This west, Mount St. Helena to the portion of trail produces fannorth and an abundance of tastic views from both sides of deer and raptors. the ridge and you slowly lose From the trailhead, begin elevation heading towards hiking south on the meander- Mount Diablo. ing Highland Ridge Trail At the next trail junction, along Morgan Territory Road head north on Raven Trail and for a few hundred yards begin a wonderful descent before rolling away and up that drops you back into the into the grassy covered hills of valley below. Even though gold. The network of trails this section of the descent is found on this hike is very con- somewhat abrupt, the well ducive to both large hiking maintained trails will aide groups and bicyclists due to you in safe navigation. This the wide nature of the trails. part of the hike was definitely Stay on Highland Ridge Trail my favorite because of the as you pass “Morgan many ravines and clusters of Backpack Camp” which has trees that can be seen sur-
rounding this trail. You are faced with two options as you stand at the Fox/Raven Trail junction: Stay on Raven Trail and continue down to the valley floor below and then hike back up to Highland Trail or take Fox Trail, which is a shortcut that meets up with Raven Trail just below the Highland Junction. Both are equally beautiful, but on this particular day I was looking for some late afternoon “leg burn”, so I chose Raven Trail. Raven Trail dives into a thicket of trees and brush for about a one half mile until you reach a major creek crossing. However, at this time of year, as you can guess, the creek was dry as a bone. Stay on Raven Trail as you once again ascend towards Highland Trail and don’t forget to enjoy the shade that follows you all the
way back up to the next trail junction. Now that you are on the Highland Ridge Trail, and have completed the loop, follow the trail towards the staging area. Note the signs along parts of this trail that read “No entry permitted, area closed due to Land Bank”. Basically this means the EBRPD has acquired this land for public
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Getting There: Follow Marsh Creek Road out of Clayton and turn right on Morgan Territory Road. Follow Morgan Territory for 7.2 miles until you reach a small gravel parking area. You will see an access gate marked “Highland ridge Trail.” There are no facilities available.
For comments on this article, or suggestions for future hikes, contact Kevin at kaypee@sbcglobal.net
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use, and will open it to the general public in the future. What does that mean for you and me? More opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors in new and unexplored areas. No maps were available at the trailhead, but if you continue on Morgan Territory Road for another two miles, you can get a map at the Regional Preserve Staging Area. Get out there and enjoy!
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New markets open up for songwriters New marketing and exposure opportunities await songwriters these days. While songwriting remains a difficult, competitive profession, previously unknown avenues now exist for writers who manage to place their music into situations needing songs. Let’s explore a few. As a kid, growing up in Portland, Ore., there were only four television stations, and FM radio was virtually non-existent. Today, there are more than 100 cable TV stations readily available, and many more are on satellite and DirecTV systems. All of these stations contain programming where lots of music is needed. There are dozens of FM radio stations in any large metropolitan area, and AM radio stations are still plentiful. Add in the rapidly expanding number of Internet radio stations, subscription driven satellite radio networks and thousands of public and college radio stations, and
suddenly a whole new world of possible “air-play” exists for songwriters. It’s not just “hit songs” that are played on television and radio. Snippets and pieces of music are almost always used in commercials, public service announcements and as theme music for all types of programming, from sports to soap operas to movies. A wise music industry veteran recently suggested that the best thing an up and coming songwriter can do is hook up with a fledgling independent film company. You might not make much, if any, money at first, but you’ll gain two other extremely valuable commodities: experience and exposure. As we say in the music business, “Keep working. Always working.” There are also opportunities in children’s music, novelty songs, Broadway and independently produced plays and the-
JIM HUDAK MUSIC NOTES ater, and yes, writing “hit songs.” Any of these can produce income. As I’ve noted before, songwriting income typically comes in two ways: mechanical royalties and performance royalties. Mechanical royalties are payments you receive when your music is sold on a CD or a piece of sheet music. Performance royalties occur when your music is played publicly. Radio, television, concerts and background
music services are among the most common sources for public performance. We can add a third possible income source into today’s songwriting market. A “work for hire,” as its name implies, involves the creation of songs for an agreed upon fee. This type of arrangement has become more commonplace lately, particularly when smaller ad agencies or independent film companies want music at a flat fee, without further, possibly costly financial obligations, down the road. Since many young or unknown songwriters are eager to get any income or exposure they can, many of them jump at the chance to write songs as works for hire. Many vehicles exist for our music. With some talent, imagination and persistence, truly determined songwriters can generate solid income at their craft. Jim Hudak’s Music Notes column
Page 11
Olympic Watch Mark your calendars for August 26 –27 for what promises to be stellar performances by the 2 0 0 4 Olympic U.S. Synchronized Swimming team with our ERIN DOBRATZ very own Clayton star, 21-year-old Erin Dobratz. The technical routine to the music
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PG&E Conservation tips The current heat wave has already produced three consecutive days of record setting electricity usage by Californians as air conditioners work to keep residents cool. With today’s temperatures expected to remain high, PG&E has joined the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), the agency responsible for managing the states’ power grid, to urge customers to conserve electricity. Conservation efforts play a key role in helping the CAISO balance the demand for energy with the available supply. One of the biggest users of electricity during the summer is the air conditioner, which can account for up to 40 percent of usage at home. There are several steps customers can take to conserve energy, and save money at the same time. Pacific Gas and Electric Company is committed to helping its customers with conservation this summer and offers the following top 10 tips: Home Energy Savings Checklist: Set thermostat at 78 degrees or higher when at home (health permitting) Set thermostat at 85 degrees or off when away from home (health permitting) Provide shading for your air conditioning condenser Ventilate rather than refrigerate: Try a fan rather than air conditioning for cooling (health permitting) Close curtains and shades during the heat of the day Use major appliances and home office equipment after 7:00 p.m. Unplug or recycle the old, second refrigerator Replace incandescent bulbs
from the movie. “Drumline” will be performed on Thursday, August 26 and the free routine to music from “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is on Friday, August 27. We’re “going for the gold” says Dobratz. She is especially excited about the free routine and if the team does everything right, “we can win,”she says. Best of luck to the team and to Erin. Go USA!
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
Clayton Sports Dana Hills wins Concord Cup "City" swim meet JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
The Dana Hills Swim Team won the 2004 Concord "City" Swim Championship that was held earlier this month. . It was the 12th time in the last 13 years that DHST has won the title! Dana Hills was in a nip and tuck battle with Springwood for the title again this year. Springwood Swim Team was the last team other than DHST to win the championship when they took the title away from DHST in 2002. This year Springwood was actually just slightly ahead in points after the Friday evening Individual Medley (IM). On Saturday after another back and forth contest during the freestyle and butterfly events, DHST eventually broke through with a slight lead after the last events of the day, the medley relay team finals. Then on Sunday when the breaststroke and backstroke
events were held, it really came down again to the last several events of the day, the 15 - 18 girls and boys, 6 & under boys and 7 - 8 girls backstroke events along with the Freestyle relay team finals, to see who the winner would be. DHST scored enough points during the last backstroke events and the relays to stay ahead and win the championship by a total of 67 ½ points over rival Springwood in another great competitive contest. The DHST Girls and Boys 15 - 18 relay teams were particularly impressive winning both the girls and boys medley relay and freestyle relay events and breaking meet records in the process. (See page 14). In fact, the DHST 15 - 18 girls and boys combined for 140 points in individual events and 72 points (the maximum possible) in relay events for a total of 212 points for the team during the weekend. In addition to each of the
DHST relay team members, other noteworthy DHST swimmers included: Kara Kohler who scored 27 points to take the Mayor's High Point Award in the 13 - 14 Girls "A"
won the Mayor's Award High Point Winner in 15 - 18 Girls "A" Division. Megan Schussman won the Mayor’s Award High Point Winner for the 7 - 8 Girls "A" Division,
THIS YEAR'S CONCORD CUP MEET featured 10 lanes of competitive swimming bringing more local talent to the blocks. Division. She won the IM, breast and butterfly. Lindsay Kiyama, who scored 25 individual points taking first place and setting new meet records in both the IM and freestyle while taking second in the butterfly,
winning the IM, fly and free in her age group. James Magas and Ross Valory with 15 points each shared the 13 -14 Boys High Point Winner Terrapins Award in the "B" Division.
Oakhurst Country Club Swim Team (OCCST) had some good swims too. In particular Joel Jiannalone (see page 14) shared the Terrapins High Point Winner Award in the "B" Division, scoring 18 points. Concord Parks and Recreation awarded a plaque to the team that best exemplifies the "Spirit of Sportsmanship". This year the winner was Clayton's Oakhurst Country Club Swim Team! Team trophies were awarded to both the "A" & "B" divisions champions and 2nd and 3rd place teams. The Mayor of Concord, Helen Allen, was present to award individual high point trophies to all "A" division age group winners. She also awarded trophies to the outstanding "A" Division girls and boys relay teams, which this year were the Dana Hills Swim Team 15 -18 Girls and 15-18 Boys Freestyle Relay Teams. Julianne McLane of the Terrapins USS Swim Team and
a swimmer at the US Olympic Trials this year awarded the Terrapin trophies for the "B" division high point winners. The final team scores, points and finishes were: A Division Team, Points and Place Dana Hills -742, 1st Springwood - 674.5, 2nd Ygnacio Wood - 506, 3rd Forest Park - 487, 4th Vista Diablo - 450.5, 5th Walnut Country - 375, 6th Oakhurst CC - 242.5, 7th Gehringer Park - 195.5, 8th Bishop Estates - 181, 9th B Division Walnut Country- 391.5, 1st Ygnacio Wood - 328, 2nd Vista Diablo - 311.5, 3rd Springwood - 227, 4th Dana Hills - 221, 5th Oakhurst CC - 200.5, 6th Forest Park - 198, 7th Bishop Estates - 171.5, 8th Gehringer Park - 59, 9th
Galletti has strong presence at junior golf tourney JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
In 1948, the USGA started the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship to determine the
best junior golfer age 17 and younger in the United States and also to help junior golfers learn how to realize the most from the game, win or lose. Before 1964 the number of entries for the
Championship had soared so much that a handicap limit of 10 strokes was introduced. In 1996, the championship attracted a record 3,489 entries. Qualifying was conducted at 61 sites. Today the event is international in scope with golfers from South Korea, Canada, and other countries vying for the top spots. This year the U.S. Junior Amateur tournament was held at The Olympic Club in San Francisco July 19-24. The first two rounds of stroke play cut the field to 64 players and were followed by six rounds of match
play to determine the winner. A few local players who advanced to the top 64 to play in the match play rounds included Roberto Galletti, Jr., of Clayton, Jake Yount of Danville and Geoff Gonzalez of Diablo. Galletti, 16, attends and plays golf for De La Salle and also plays for the Oakhurst Country Club Golf Team in the Bay Cities League. Galletti got his opportunity for the U.S. Junior Amateur in June when he and two others qualified at the Fort Washington C. C. in Fresno. He came in second in that tournament. At
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ROBERTO GALLETTI earlier in the year. Galletti said "I felt I played pretty good at the U.S. Junior Championship. "And, I had a good caddie," he added. "I was driving pretty well and hitting the greens on my approach shots but" his opponent, "Candela was sinking some long putts." After the Florida Invitational where he also made the cut and Candela and Shiwan Kim did not, Galletti said he finished in the top 30 at that event too. According to one golf magazine, he is currently ranked 58th in the US among junior golfers.
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tournament at the H.P. Invitational at BayHill Country Club in Florida. To be eligible to play in a major AJGA event a junior golfer must win an AJGA tournament, which Galletti did
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the end of the first two rounds of stroke play at the Championship on The Olympic Club's par 70, 6,790-yard layout Galletti had shot 74-69 for a total of 143, which tied him for fourth overall at the time. Galletti also made it past the first round of match play but the next day, he lost his match 2and-1 to Juan Pablo Candela, the top junior golfer from Colombia. Candela had shot scores of 76-73 for a total of 149 in the first two rounds of stroke play but that didn't matter in the match play. In his match with Candela on Thursday Galletti was 2 up (and 1 under par) after 12 holes but he eventually lost on the 17th hole. It was a good run, especially since he made it into the top 32 amateur juniors in the world! Candela lost in the quarterfinals on Friday. It was Galletti's second time to play in the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship, which is known for its toughness mainly because of so many competitors. The only player to ever win consecutive championships was Tiger Woods (1991-93). Sihwan Kim, a Korean-born 15 year old, who now lives in Fullerton, won the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship this year. During the week of July 26 Galletti played in his first American Junior Golf Association (A.J.G.A). major
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
Clayton Sports Concord Cup City Meet Results
Medley Relays
During the individual events the first place through eighth place swimmers score points of 9, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 respectively. In the relay team events first place through eighth place scores points of 18, 14, 12, 10, 8, 6, 4, and 2 respectively. The following are the "top 8" (i.e. point-scoring) swimmers for Oakhurst Country Club and Dana Hills Swim Teams together with their respective finish at the Concord City Championship Meet in the A and B Divisions. Swimmers could swim in a maximum of three individual events in addition to relays. A "C" designates swimmers qualifying for County Championship Meet.
A Division, Individual Medley 8 & Under, Girls Schussman, Megan . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Ryle, Taylor . . . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
C
Boys White, Tanner . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .DHST Calkins, Ryan . . . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST Marr, Patrick . . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
11- 12, Girls Sweeney, Heather . . . . . .3rd . . . .OAK O'Brien, Erica . . . . . . . . .4th . . . .DHST
C C
Boys Adams, Kevin . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Brassil, Thomas . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
C
C
Boys Bode, Brent . . . . . . . . . .1st Walker, Jesse . . . . . . . . . .4th Ricks, Benjamin . . . . . . . .5th Magas, James . . . . . . . . .7th Mills, Chris . . . . . . . . . . .8th
. . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .OAK . . . .DHST . . . .DHST
15 - 18, Girls(none)
13 - 14 C C
Boys Pearson, Jon . . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .OAK Keane, Patrick . . . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST
C C
Boys Simmons, Harrison . . . . .5th . . . .DHST Calkins, Liam . . . . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST Vines, Anthony . . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK
15 - 18, Girls Kiyama, Lindsay . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Zeidler, Kayla . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
C C
7 - 8, Girls Schussman, Megan . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Shaw, Riley . . . . . . . . . . .6th . . . .OAK
Boys Zachan, Matt . . . . . . . . . .4th . . . .DHST Boessenecker, Danny . . .7th . . . .DHST Zewan, Matt . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
C C C
B Division, Individual Medley 8 & Under, Girls Shaw, Riley . . . . . . . . . . .1st . . . .OAK Anderson, Kimberly . . . . .5th . . . .DHST Boys (no event) 9 - 10, Girls Neal, Allie . . . . . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .OAK Hunziker, Peyton . . . . . . .4th . . . .OAK Murphy-Hopson, Devan . .7th . . . .OAK Boys Anderson, Derek . . . . . . .5th . . . .DHST
. . . .OAK . . . .DHST . . . .OAK . . . .OAK
Boys Adams, Kevin . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Anderson, Derek . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST
C C C C
Boys Zefeldt, Mat . . . . . . . . . .3rd Zewan, Matt . . . . . . . . . .4th Bowen, Kevin . . . . . . . . .5th Walker, Bryce . . . . . . . . .8th
. . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST
C C C C
. . . .OAK . . . .OAK . . . .OAK . . . .OAK
Boys Orozco, Marcelo . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST 9 - 10, Girls Raymond, Heather . . . . .2nd . . . .OAK Boys Pratt, Zachary . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .OAK 11 - 12, Girls Grove, Kelsie . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .OAK Young, Adrienne . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK Boys (none) 13 - 14, Girls (none) C
11 - 12, Girls Carrigan, Kelsey . . . . . . .5th . . . .DHST Pearson, Jessica . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK Polshuk, Hannah . . . . . . .8th . . . .OAK
Boys Mills, Chris . . . . . . . . . . .tied 1st .DHST Valory, Ross . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Magas, James . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .DHST Ricks, Benjamin . . . . . . . .8th . . . .OAK 15 - 18, Girls Lyons, Olivia . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST
Boys Rogers, Colton . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST Cooper, Nick . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
Boys Jiannalone, Joel . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .OAK Bowen, Scott . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST
lt Adu
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C
. . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST
7 - 8, Girls O'Bryan, Monique . . . . . .2nd Shamblin, Rachel . . . . . .3rd Dennis, Rachel . . . . . . . .6th Treppa, Lindsay . . . . . . .7th
C
C
15 - 18, Girls Kiyama, Lindsay . . . . . . .1st Zeidler, Kayla . . . . . . . . .2nd Farizell, Ashley . . . . . . . .7th Boessenecker, Sara . . . . .8th
6 & Under, Girls (none)
Boys (none) 9 - 10, Girls O'Connell, Kaitlyn . . . . . .2nd Goodspeed, Katie . . . . . .5th Palmer, Nicole . . . . . . . . .6th Hunziker, Taylor . . . . . . .7th
Keenan, Nick . . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
Boys Friedman, Anthony . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
6 & Under, Girls Cannedy, Alexis . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Dennis, Kimberly . . . . . . .4th . . . .OAK Ralston, Ellie . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK
Girls Kohler, Kara . . . . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Patterson, Katie . . . . . . .8th . . . .OAK
13 - 14, Girls Patterson, Katie . . . . . . .2nd . . . .OAK
B Division, Freestyle
Boys Jiannalone, Joel . . . . . . . .5th . . . .OAK
A Division, Freestyle
Boys Biel, Garrett . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
Katie; Loflin, Natalie; Winskill, Carolyn; 13-114 Boys DHST, 2:02.32 3rd, Langford, Kyle; Bode, Brent;Keane, Patrick; Farizell, Jared 15 - 18 Girls DHST,1:57.66,1st, Kiyama, Lindsay; Zeidler, Kayla; ) Bedecarre, Julie; Farizell, Ashley 15 -118 Boys DHST 1:42.86 1st Walker, Bryce; Zefeldt, Mat; Zachan, Matt; Zewan, Matt
Boys Pearson, Jon . . . . . . . . . .4th . . . .OAK Langford, Kyle . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
Boys Cooper, Nick . . . . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Nejad, Nathan . . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST 13 - 14, Girls Grove, Cassandra . . . . . .2nd . . . .OAK
9 - 10, Girls O'Connell, Kaitlyn . . . . . .1st . . . .OAK Stelzner, Jenna . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST Goodspeed, Katie . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST
11 - 12, Girls Marr, Marisa . . . . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST
Medley Relays (includes time, place and age of swimmers) 6 & Under Girls; OAK,1:56.85, 2nd; Kern, Katie; Ralston, Ellie; Dennis, Kimberly, Sheffield, Courtney; DHST 1:57.91,3rd Cannedy, Alexis; Parkhurst Annaliese; Weigelt, Alina; Hall, Emma 6 & Under Boys; OAK; 2:26.91, 4th Treppa, Chad; Ralston, Bill;) Delmonte, Dominic; Vines, Anthony 7 - 8 Girls DHST, 1:24.92,1st Schussman, Megan; Goodshaw, Katie; Goodspeed, Megan; Ryle, Taylor; OAK, 1:37.25, 5th, Shamblin, Rachel; Shaw, Riley; Roo, Clarice; Cullen, Kate 7 - 8 Boys DHST, 1:29.15 3rd White, Tanner; Marr, Patrick; Calkins, Ryan; Fryer, Michael 9 - 10 Girls OAK, 2:32.81, 2nd Boeger, Samantha; Hunziker, Taylor; O'Connell, Kaitlyn; Palmer, Nicole;
DHST, 2:33.53 3rd Stelzner, Jenna; Goodspeed, Katie; Reilly, Paige; Rost, Jessica 9-110 Boys DHST, 2:32.33,1st Adams, Kevin; Anderson, Derek; Brassil, Thomas; Keane, John; OAK, 3:27.23, 7th Ewing, Parker; Lloyd, Peter; Wraa, Spencer; Pratt, Zachary 11 - 12 Girls, OAK, 2:17.03, 3rd Pearson, Jessica; Stucker, Jenny; Polshuk, Hannah; Richman, Ashley; DHST 2:18.78 4th, Marr, Marisa; Carrigan, Kelsey; Carney, Megan; Schussman, Karen; 11-112 Boys DHST, 2:22.77, 4th Biel, Garrett; Rogers,Colton; Cooper, Nick; Sullivan, Brendan; OAK, 2:53.15 7th, Pratt, Cody; Ricks, Thomas; Loflin, Jack; Bredell, Stuart 13 - 14 Girls DHST, 2:08.62,3rd, Kohler, Kara ; Barber, Kirstie; Alamillo, Lindsay; Byers, Jessie; OAK, 2:19.96, 6th Grove, Cassandra; Patterson,
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Feestyle Relays 6 & Under Girls OAK, 1:43.18, 2nd, Collins, Kaylie; Ralston, Ellie; Dennis, Kimberly; Sheffield, Courtney; DHST,1:46.93,3rd Cannedy, Alexis; Parkhurst, Annaliese;Hall, Emma; Renner, Veronica 6 & under Boys DHST, 1:49.90, 3rd, Friedman, Anthony; Brown, Nicholas; Calkins, Liam; Simmons, Harrison; OAK, 2:05.41,5th Molale, Ryan;
A Division, Butterfly 6 & Under, Girls Dennis, Kimberly . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK Cannedy, Alexis . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
C
Boys White, Tanner . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST 9 - 10, Girls O'Connell, Kaitlyn . . . . . .2nd . . . .OAK Reilly, Paige . . . . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST Neal, Allie . . . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .OAK
C C
C
Boys Biel, Garrett . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST
C C
Boys (none) 15 - 18, Girls Kiyama, Lindsay . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST Brassil, Kelsey . . . . . . . .4th . . . .DHST Boessenecker, Sara . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
C C C
Boys Zachan, Matt . . . . . . . . . .1st Bowen, Kevin . . . . . . . . .2nd Peterson, Erik . . . . . . . . .4th Zefeldt, Mat . . . . . . . . . .6th
C C C C
B Division, Butterfly 6 & Under, Girls Sheffield, Courtney . . . . .1st Renner, Veronica . . . . . . .2nd Livingston, Jenna . . . . . .3rd Kern, Katie . . . . . . . . . . .6th
. . . .OAK . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .OAK
Boys Vines, Anthony . . . . . . . .1st . . . .OAK Hunziker, Dylan . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .OAK Bredell, Wyatt . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .OAK 7 - 8, Girls Roo, Clarice . . . . . . . . . . .2nd Treppa, Lindsay . . . . . . .3rd Hansen, Miranda . . . . . . .4th Haley, Megan . . . . . . . . .5th Poston, Sara Nicole . . . . .6th
. . . .OAK . . . .OAK . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST
B Division, Breaststroke
Boys (none)
Boys Hunziker, Dylan . . . . . . . .5th . . . .OAK
11 - 12, Girls Poston, Ashley . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST Grove, Kelsie . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .OAK
7 - 8, Girls Williams, Sarah . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
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11 - 12, Girls English, Lindsey . . . . . . .3rd . . . .OAK Boys Loflin, Jack . . . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK 13 - 14, Girls (none)
A Division, Breaststroke
Boys Magas, James . . . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST
6 & Under, Girls Hall, Emma . . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Ralston, Ellie . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK
15 - 18, Girls (none) Boys Jiannalone, Joel . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .OAK Marcic, Dean . . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .DHST Keenan, Nick . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
Boys Molale, Ryan . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .OAK Simmons, Harrison . . . . .4th . . . .DHST
A Division, Backstroke
7 - 8, Girls Anderson, Kimberly . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Shaw, Riley . . . . . . . . . . .4th . . . .OAK
6 & Under, Girls Cannedy, Alexis . . . . . . . .4th . . . .DHST
Boys Fryer, Michael . . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST 9 - 10, Girls Stelzner, Jenna . . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST
C
Boys Brassil, Thomas . . . . . . .4th . . . .DHST Keane, John . . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .DHST
C
11 - 12, Girls Stucker, Jenny . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .OAK Carrigan, Kelsey . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST
C
Boys Cooper, Nick . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST 13 - 14, Girls Kohler, Kara . . . . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Boys Keane, Patrick . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Langford, Kyle . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
C C
C C C C
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. . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .OAK . . . .OAK
7 - 8, Girls Fitzsimmons, Kasey . . . .1st Goodshaw, Katie . . . . . . .2nd Ryle, Taylor . . . . . . . . . . .3rd Brown, Gabriella . . . . . . .5th O'Bryan, Monique . . . . . .8th
. . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .OAK
C
9 - 10, Girls Stelzner, Jenna . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Boeger, Samantha . . . . . .5th . . . .OAK Goodspeed, Katie . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST
C
Boys Anderson, Derek . . . . . . .4th . . . .DHST
Boys Zewan, Matt . . . . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Boessenecker, Danny . . .5th . . . .DHST Cooper, Dave . . . . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST
LET'S GO BOWLING
Boys Simmons, Harrison . . . . .1st Calkins, Liam . . . . . . . . . .5th Ralston, Bill . . . . . . . . . .6th Delmonte, Dominic . . . . .8th
Boys Marr, Patrick . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
15 - 18, Girls Lyons, Olivia . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
11 - 12, Girls Marr, Marisa . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Polshuk, Hannah . . . . . . .4th . . . .OAK Pearson, Jessica . . . . . . .5th . . . .OAK Boys Biel, Garrett . . . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST Rogers, Colton . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
C C C C
13 - 14, Girls Patterson, Katie . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK Boys Pearson, Jon . . . . . . . . . .4th . . . .OAK Keane, Patrick . . . . . . . . .6th . . . .DHST
C C
15 - 18, Girls Zeidler, Kayla . . . . . . . . .1st Davis, Lindsey . . . . . . . . .6th Bedecarre, Julie . . . . . . .7th Langford, Kristen . . . . . .8th
. . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST
C C C C
Boys Walker, Bryce . . . . . . . . .2nd Zachan, Matt . . . . . . . . . .4th Boessenecker, Danny . . .6th Peterson, Erik . . . . . . . . .7th
. . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST
C C C C
B Division, Backstroke 6 & Under, Girls Sheffield, Courtney . . . . .4th . . . .OAK Hall, Emma . . . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .DHST Boys Treppa, Chad . . . . . . . . .4th . . . .OAK Molale, Ryan . . . . . . . . . .8th . . . .OAK
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Boys Haley, Ryan . . . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
15 - 18, Girls Cheng, Kimberly . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
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Circuit training
9 - 10, Girls Rogers, Bailey . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST
Boys (none)
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Boys Orozco, Marcelo . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
Boys Stelzner, Michael . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Bredell, Stuart . . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK
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6 & Under, Girls Ulinger, Ashley . . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
Boys Bowen, Scott . . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Galan, Fran . . . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .DHST
11 - 12, Girls Marr, Marisa . . . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST
. . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST . . . .DHST
Boys Parker, Robert . . . . . . . . .4th . . . .DHST LaMar, Alex . . . . . . . . . . .5th . . . .OAK
13 - 14, Girls Byers, Jessie . . . . . . . . . .4th . . . .DHST
Boys Adams, Kevin . . . . . . . . .2nd . . . .DHST Brassil, Thomas . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST Keane, John . . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .DHST
13 - 14, Girls Kohler, Kara . . . . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Loflin, Natalie . . . . . . . . .7th . . . .OAK
Polshuk, Hannah; Richman, Ashley; DHST, 2:04.40, 6th Marr, Marisa; Carrigan, Kelsey; Carney, Megan; Schussman, Karen; 11-112 Boys DHST, 2:04.25, 5th Biel, Garrett; Rogers, Colton; Cooper, Nick; Sullivan, Brendan 13 - 14 Girls DHST, 1:55.42, 3rd Kohler, Kara; Barber, Kirstie; Alamillo, Lindsay; Barber, Jade; OAK,1:59.17,6th Grove, Cassandra; Patterson, Katie; Loflin, Natalie; Winskill, Carolyn 13-114 Boys DHST,1:48.67, 4th Langford, Kyle; Bode, Brent; Keane, Patrick; Farizell, Jared 15 - 18 Girls DHST, 1:41.82,1st Kiyama, Lindsay, Zeidler, Kayla; Boessenecker, Sara; Farizell, Ashley 15-118 Boys DHST,1:29.99,1st Bowen, Kevin; Zefeldt, Mat; Zachan, Matt; Zewan, Matt
9 - 10, Girls (none)
Boys Calkins, Liam . . . . . . . . . .1st . . . .DHST 7 - 8, Girls Schussman, Megan . . . . .1st . . . .DHST Goodshaw, Katie . . . . . . .8th . . . .DHST
Ralston, Bill; Delmonte, Dominic;Vines, Anthony 7 - 8 Girls DHST, 1:12.36, 2nd, Schussman, Megan; Goodshaw, Katie; Goodspeed, Megan; Ryle, Taylor; OAK, 1:22.15, 5th O'Bryan, Monique; Shaw, Riley; Roo, Clarice; Cullen, Kate 7-88 Boys DHST, 1:13.54, 3rd, White, Tanner; Cannedy, Austin; Marr, Patrick; Newton, Carter 9 - 10 Girls OAK, 2:10.58, 2nd, Boeger, Samantha; Hunziker, Taylor; O'Connell, Kaitlyn; Palmer, Nicole; DHST, 2:15.33, 3rd Stelzner, Jenna; Goodspeed, Katie; Loyola, Kimberly; Rost, Jessica 9-110 Boys DHST, 2:17.00,2nd, Adams, Kevin; Anderson, Derek; Brassil, Thomas; Keane, John; OAK, 2:37.02, 8th, Ewing, Parker; Lloyd, Peter; Wraa, Spencer; Pratt, Zachary 11 - 12 Girls OAK, 2:02.54, 4th Pearson, Jessica; Stucker, Jenny;
7 - 8, Girls Lampo, Alexis . . . . . . . . .3rd . . . .DHST
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
Clayton Sports This month the Clayton Pioneer Spotlight's reflections step out of the norm and shine on joint athletes of the month for August. . . the athletes are swimmers following the exciting Concord Cup meet two weeks ago . . . it turns out there are more than just two of them! The first Athlete (Swimmer) of Month makes a big impact in and out of the pool according to Oakhurst Country Club Swim Team's Head Coach Kasey Harris. Joel Jiannalone,18, put up a strong showing at the Concord Cup meet worthy of the 15-18 boys high point award in the B Division. His hard work and dedication and constant improvement over the entire swim season makes this a tremendous achievement. “Not only is Joel a fast presence in the pool but he is helpful in every situation; he's well liked and is always the loudest voice while cheering the other swimmers. He has attended every practice and swim team event this season. It's hard to believe that this was Joel's first
Joel Jiannalone
DHST 15-18 Relay Team
Joel Jiannalone had many achievements on his first year on the Oakhurst swim team
Scott Bowen, Matt Zewan, Concord Mayor Helen Allen, Mat Zefeldt and Matt Zachan.
PIONEER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
year on the Oakhurst team! He has been a wonderful role model and has captured the hearts of all on the team," says Harris. Jiannalone is a graduate of Clayton Valley High School and will be leaving for the Navy to do search and rescue in the fall. The Oakhurst
The Rage of the Field Mice The topped shot, or hitting the ball thin, leaves us feeling rather "poopie," doesn't it? Well, you can just imagine what that cute little rodent thinks when this big white cannon ball is bearing down on him - not to mention the vapor trail it leaves; poor little guys.
the swing. At address, we bend forward from the hip joints and flex our knees slightly. This produces a forward tilt with our spine. Our weight is centered evenly between our feet, and that weight should be felt on the balls of our feet, not on our heels or toes. This set position produces a good balance to start our swing. Now, it's critical that we maintain this balanced spine angle in our swing until just after impact. At that point, because we are extending through the shot with
our arms straight out, the momentum of our body will pull us up into a full and balanced finish position. We say we lifted our heads up - No! We came out of our spine angle, either on the takeaway or just before impact. Stay down through your shots and then, just maybe, you won't be getting golf tips from field mice! Dave Gray is a teaching professional at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. E-mail your questions or comments to him at sports@claytonpioneer.com
team wishes him good luck and will certainly miss him. The joint Athlete of the Month is the Dana Hills Swim Team's 15-18 Boys Freestyle Relay team! DHST Head Coach, Karen Goodshaw nom-
inated the entire relay team for the award because of their recent record setting achievements. The relay team of Kevin Bowen, 18, Matt Zewan,17, Mat Zefeldt,17, and Matt Zachan,18, (yes, there are three "Mat(t) Z's" on this team) not only set a new team and meet record by over four seconds at Woodlands Invitational for the Boys 15-18 400 yard freestyle relay with a time of 3:21.05 (a record which had been in existence since 1982), they also set a new team and meet record at the Concord Cup Meet for the 200 yard freestyle relay with a time of 1:29.99 beating the old meet record of 1:31.86 by nearly two full seconds! In taking first place in Concord Cup meet and by breaking the record by so much, they also won the 2004 Mayor's Award for the Outstanding Boys' Relay. Bowen, Zewan and Zachan are 2004 graduates of CVHS and will be heading to universities at Santa Barbara, Cal Poly and Chico respectively this fall. Zefeldt will be a senior at CVHS next year. Zewan and Zefeldt are planning to swim for DHST again next season. The Clayton Pioneer spotlights a local youth athlete from our circulation area in the second issue each month and Rocco’s congratulates the athlete with a free pizza. If you are a coach or an administrator and would like to nominate a young person (under 20 years of age) for the Rocco's Athlete Spotlight, please send information to sports@claytonpioneer.com or fax to 672-6580. Deadline for our Sept. 24 issue is Monday, Sept. 13.
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THE DAVE GRAY GRAY ON GOLF I've topped a few drives in my time, and on one occasion, when walking up to my ball, I heard this little voice from the grass saying, "Hey, buddy, you need to maintain your spine angle a little longer." And, you know? He was right! There are many reasons we hit a shot thin or top it. They range from a fast, jerky takeaway to lifting our hands and arms too soon and not keeping our knees flexed until after impact. We find ourselves taking our eyes off the ball before impact because we want to see where it's going to land when, in fact, it hasn't even left the ground yet. But, the main reason we hit a shot thin is because we come out of our spine angle somewhere in
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Religion St. Bonaventure’s meets multi-cultural challenges St. Bonaventure Catholic Community, founded in 1957 with 300 families is now the largest Catholic parish in Concord, with 2800 registered families. For the past two years, the parish has been focused on raising the money to build several new facilities, including a school and learning center to accommodate the growing needs and population of the parish. St. Bonaventure is currently facing a new challenge. This challenge is how best to serve the area’s large Latino population within the context of the parish and the church. In 1985, the Concord Hispanic Ministry was formed by the Diocese of Oakland as a response to the emerging Spanish speaking community in the Concord area. At that time, none of the existing Concord parishes were prepared with the resources or personnel required to serve a Spanish speaking population. The Concord Hispanic Ministry was essentially a parish without a church building. In 1995, the Diocese purchased a small building on Chestnut Avenue, in Concord, to use for offices and meeting
spaces. This building became known as Casa Hispana. Up to this point, The Hispanic Ministry was served by a number of Spanish speaking priests who helped out part time. In 1996, Fr. Richard Mangini was named pastor of both St. Bonaventure and the Concord Hispanic Ministry. Fr. Mangini was the first pastor actually assigned by the Diocese to the Concord Hispanic Ministry. Under Fr. Mangini’s leadership and with the help of Deacon Mariano Preza and a strong leadership team, the Hispanic Ministry essentially provided all the services that are usually found in a “regular” parish: religious education, sacraments, social justice work and counseling. By 2003, the Spanish speaking population in the Concord area had grown so large that the program had become difficult to administer in its original form. Between two and three thousand people were attending Masses in Spanish each Sunday in Concord. In June of 2003, Concord Hispanic Ministry was disbanded and the responsibility for the ministries and services it provid-
ed were returned to the individual parishes of Concord. The challenge is now to serve the Latin population of the area on a parish basis rather than a regional basis. St. Bonaventure, as a parish, along with St. Francis of Assisi and Queen of All Saints, is hard at work trying to determine the best ways to “connect” with the several hundred Spanish-speaking families who are now an official part of the parish. An immediate and obvious challenge is simply the language issue. The clergy find themselves constantly dealing with the issues of language as they now celebrate not only the Spanish Mass each Sunday, but also assume the responsibility for large numbers of weddings, funerals, quincieneras (the celebration of a young girl’s fifteenth birthday), confessions, counseling sessions and “general” pastoral duties in the Spanish language. This often involves the preparation of multiple homilies in both Spanish and English on a single weekend. Both Fr. Mangini and Fr. David Lawrence are fluent in Spanish. Fr. Robert Rien, the newest member of the staff, will spend several weeks in Mexico
this fall learning the language. During this past year, committees have been developed at the parish to study the “connection” issues. The Pastoral Council now has Latino representation. A Multi-Cultural Task Force composed of pastoral staff members, several people from the Latino leadership and several people from the large and active Filipino group in the parish now meets to recommend where connections might be developed among the various cultures and then to help implement these connections and changes. A Latino Ministry Office is open on the parish grounds and signs in both English and Spanish will soon be seen throughout the property. The parish bulletin and banners used in the church are bilingual. Sr. Roberta Carson, director of family faith formation, is working with catechists from the Latino community to develop religious education classes to serve the needs of the Spanish speaking population. This fall, the parish plans to offer classes in conversational Spanish on site for anyone who would like to learn the basics of the language.
Local teens spend a week working in a homeless shelter in the Tenderloin Teens from St. Bonaventure Catholic Community recently spent a week working in the Tenderloin in San Francisco. Youth Ministry Director, Patty Collyer, shares some of her experiences from that week.
carpets were dirty, the elevators did not work, and the rooms were smaller than an average Clayton bedroom. There was only enough room for a bed and a dresser. There were shared
we were serving. Many shared stories of their struggles, expressed appreciation and shared wisdom with the teens while others sat in silence avoiding eye contact and conversation.
BY PATTY COLLYER Special to the Pioneer
I must admit that the thought of taking ten teens to spend a week working in San Francisco’s Tenderloin did cause some feelings of anxiety and apprehension. In my days of working in the financial district, I had learned that “people like us” did not venture into the Tenderloin. However, we felt called to do this so we prayed for God’s protection and guidance and off we went. I slept in the basement of St. Emydius School (along with 40 other young ladies) and the young men all slept in the basement of the gymnasium. This gave us the opportunity to experience what it would be like to live in a shelter—but we knew our situation was voluntary and temporary. THE FIRST DAY During our first day, after an orientation at St. Anthony’s, half of our group visited with the elderly at a drop-in center while the others delivered lunches (provided by the Salvation Army) to shut-ins living in single room occupancy (SRO) hotels. The paint was peeling, the floors and
ST. BONAVENTURE TEENS spent a week in a homeless shelter in the Tenderloin. Front row: Matt Flansbaum, Patti Collyer Back row: Michelle Emry, Anthony Knaapen, Dan Collyer, Paul Viscogliosi, Sam Warnken-Brill, Aracelli Smith, Shannon Collyer, Ashley Ernst, Natalie Centurioni, Angela Dib
bathrooms on each floor that were in great need of repair. These hotels offer the most affordable housing in San Francisco and still cost between $550-$1050 per month. The people receiving the lunches were very grateful and many enjoyed talking briefly with the teens. At our debriefing session that afternoon the teens could not get over the horrific living conditions at these hotels. DAY TWO On day two, we made 36 bag lunches and gave them to homeless people as we walked from Muni to St. Anthony’s. That day we worked in the dining room and had lunch with the people
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We were moved by the fact that many people offered to share part of their meal with us if we finished before they did. They did not want to waste anything or see us hungry. From that point on, we were greeted with warm smiles and kind words as we walked the streets of the Tenderloin. At one point, a young man ran across the street and pleaded with us to pray for him as he struggles to overcome his heroin addiction. His story of desperation and faith moved many of us to tears. We visited St. Boniface church which is right next to St. Anthony’s. As we entered, our eyes were drawn to the beautiful
mural on the ceiling and stained glass windows overhead. As we looked in awe, the silence was suddenly broken by the sound of sleeping homeless people who filled the pews in the back half of the church. It gave new meaning to “God’s house” being a true “sanctuary.” We couldn’t help but wonder how we would respond if our church’s pews were filled with sleeping homeless people. ALL ONE FAMILY We continued working at St. Anthony’s for the rest of the week. We came to love the staff (many of whom are in recovery and are getting “back on their feet”) as well as the guests we served. St. Anthony’s is a place that stresses the dignity of each human being and all are treated with love and respect. We came to realize that these people were “just like us” and were dealing with circumstances beyond their control. We truly are all part of the same family. SOME INTERESTING FACTS A person working full-time at a minimum wage job in San Francisco would bring home about $950. If that person lived in one of the SRO hotels that would leave almost no money for food, clothing or anything else. If minimum wage kept up with inflation, it would be over $15 an hour.These people are the working poor. There are only two public toilets (and no places to shower) to serve over 8,000 homeless peo-
Page 15
The situation is not all rosy, however. Not everyone is happy about the language accommodations that have to be made and there are cultural differences on both sides which are not fully understood or appreciated. The reality however, is that the Latino population of the area will continue to grow. Because Spanish speaking countries are historically Roman Catholic, the Catholic Church is particularly affected by immigration from these countries. Fr. Mangini feels that a simplistic approach is not the answer in this situation. Many might think that the “appropriate” solution would be for everyone in our Latino population to simply learn English. Spirituality, however, is not just a matter of language; it is a deeply ingrained part of people’s lives. Even those who speak English fluently often prefer to worship and to pray in their own languages and within their own cultural traditions. Additionally, the Latino population of this area comes from a variety of Latin American countries and each of these countries has its own cultures and traditions, which adds to the complexities. The word “connections” is very important to Fr. Mangini. It indicates a desire of the parish to forge bonds, not to subsume or assimilate one culture into another as the various populations of the parish learn ways to work, play and pray together.
ple who live at the shelter. While these two facilities are supposed to be “self-cleaning”, we found them to be pretty disgusting after they “self-cleaned.” The 20 blocks that make up the Tenderloin are bordered by Civic Center (the government building), Union Square (with Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom’s), luxury hotels and the financial district. These areas represent some of the greatest wealth in our nation surrounding some of the poorest people—a troubling paradox. Despite myths that homeless people want to live like that, we did not meet one person who wanted to be homeless or live in poverty.
Karen Laible RELIGION EDITOR The Pioneer wants to know what is happening in your parish, congregation, temple, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship. Tell us about your ministries, upcoming activities or notable members. Send your news items to Clayton Pioneer, PO Box 1246, Clayton 94517 or e-mail religion@claytonpioneer.com.
Church News BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON: All are invited to a talk on Sept. 3 at 7:30 p.m. entitled “The Message and Messenger of God—a Baha’i promise of Unity in Chaos,” presented by Dennis Pettyjohn. Born and raised in California, with a B.A. in Theology and an M.A. in Church Administration, Pettyjohn was a Baptist minister/pastor for about 10 years in California and Arizona. The gathering will take place at a private home in Clayton. For more info: 6726686. CHESTNUT AVENUE COMMUNITY CHURCH is holding a Diablo Valley Western Fair, Sept. 11, 2 to 9 p.m, 3525 Chestnut Ave., Concord, with games, food, demonstrations and a country DJ with dancing. Admission: Adults $5, Children (5-12) $3 and under 5-free. ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY. The parish encourages anyone who is recently divorced to attend a workshop designed to assist in coping with the stages of grief and moving forward toward healing at the Family Life Center in Concord on Sept. 25 and 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A $35 donation is requested. The weekend is offered as a service and outreach of The Catholic, Divorced, Widowed and Separated of Contra Costa County. For more info: Joe Gerhards, 682-3314 or Lanai Cline, 685-0497. ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL. Sun., Aug. 29, is the final day to drop off backpack donations for those who wish to participate in the Back-to-School Backpack Project. For more info: 672-8855.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
BRENDA BARNETTE AND PICASSO PAWS AND CLAWS
Traveling well with your pet Going on vacation? Your companion animal can be a great travel companion on a vacation. Preparing to move? Your furry friend will acclimate to a new home if he is with you. You will need to do some planning ahead to make it a safe journey for you and your four legged family members. Buckle up for safety is the first step for everyone in your car and this includes your animal passengers. I prefer traveling with my dogs and cats in the heavy duty plastic carriers which can be purchased in various sizes at most pet stores. I prefer the plastic to the wire crates for safety. It is too easy
ARF Animal Allstars coming Saint John’s Episcopal Church, in cooperation with Animal Rescue Foundation, will sponsor “Animal Allstars,” a four session learning experience for younger children about the human/animal bond. ARF educator Carole Mason, will lead this class in humane education, where children will learn about caring for and respecting their companion animal. The course runs four consecutive Sunday mornings, Sept. 12, 19, 26 and Oct 3, from 9-9:45 a.m. in Saint John’s Learning Center 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. On Oct. 3, participants are invited to join St. John’s at 10 a.m. for their annual observance of St. Francis Day. There is a $10 fee, and advance registration is required by Sept. 7. For more information, call St. John’s at 672-8855 or send e-mail to info@saintjohnsparish.org.
to get a foot or toe stuck in a wire crate causing injury and pain. Carriers provide security and should always be buckled with the seat belt or a specially designed carrier restraint. Select a crate that allows your dog or cat to stand up and turn around but one that is not too big. Too much space inside a crate can lead to injury during sudden stops or accidents. Put a towel inside for a comfy cushion. If car travel is new for your companion, take him or her for a few short rides to the park or around town before the trip. This will help your dog or cat become comfortable with auto travel. These practice runs will help you to determine if you will be traveling with a road warrior or a white-knuckle flyer. Food, Water and Exercise: If your dog isn’t accustomed to car travel, do not feed him for six to seven hours before the ride. Stick with your regular diet, giving his main meal at the end of the day’s road trip. Dry food is more convenient, if your pet is used to it. There are several types of clip-on water holders that can be attached inside of the carriers. Cats will need a litter box in their carrier. Use only a small amount of litter – she just needs to get the scratching sensation. When you need to stop you can walk the dog. You and your dog will know how often this needs to be. My older dog, Nota, who is somewhere between 18 and 21 years-old,
August 20, 2004
Ichabob is ARF’s Pet of the Month Ichabob is proof that great things come in small packages. This two-year-old Pomeranian/Spaniel mix is a tiny dog with a lot of love to share. He is very friendly, snuggly, enjoys grooming and is recommended for families with children four years old and above. Bring everyone who will live with Ichabob, including any canine family members, to meet him at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation,
needs to stop every two hours. I have other dogs who could easily wait four or more hours. Certification and Identification: Carry proof your dog or cat is current on all vaccinations, including rabies. If traveling over state lines, you will need a health certificate from your veterinarian issued within 10 days of traveling. Make sure your dog or cat is micro chipped and has current ID tags with a telephone number. NEVER leave your pet alone inside a car, even for a few minutes. Find restaurants with drive-through windows or bring someone with you on the trip to take meal shifts so your furry family member can stay in your air-conditioned car. Plan ahead where to stop and where to stay. Information on pet-friendly establishments can easily be found in book-
2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek during adoption hours 2 to 7 p.m. Thurs. and Fri. and noon to 5 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Also at ARF: Croissants with Kitties is a special time just for cat adoptions. Join us Sat., August 28, 10 a.m. to noon to meet the kitty of your dreams. Visit our Web site to learn more about adding a dog or cat to your family and enjoying life with companion animals. (925) 256-1ARF www.arf.net
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Brenda F. Barnette is the CEO of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She has been helping bring animals and people together to enrich each others’ lives for decades and can be reached at bbarnette@arf.net.
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Page 17
It happens...one day you are your parent It's finally happened. I have become my father. They told me this would happen one day. They, whom I scoffed at, are now having the last laugh, as I have become the scoffee. To those from a slightly older generation, you've probably already experienced the nightmare of becoming one's parent. But at 38, I still find it a bit shocking whenever I catch myself doing something I'd normally attribute to my father, and it never fails to make me shudder, if ever so slightly. We like to rinse our plastic milk containers before putting them in the recycling bin as the milk residue begins to smell after a week. It just so happened that I also had a couple of half-empty two liter bottles of tonic water that had gone flat. And then, inspiration struck. I'll kill two birds with one stone and save water in the process by using the old tonic water to rinse out the milk containers! Sheer genius. I should get a medal for my water saving efforts. No lie, I was actually very excited when I came up with this bombshell of an idea.
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I recently noticed for about the millionth time how many toys our kids have. And lo and behold my father's voice was heard loud and clear as I said, "There are more toys around
JOE ROMANO
SO ANYWAY... here then you could shake a stick at." Now what I'd really like to know is who came up with that one? I don't even know what that means. Was it some sort of primitive counting method? You shake the stick once for each object? Perhaps some proud elder actually broke the stick from counting too much; hence having more of something then you can shake a
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stick at. "Would you look at that. I've got more chamber pots then you can shake a stick at! And they said I'd never amount to anything. I've made it. Today I am a man!" Other sayings I've found myself uttering that came from Dear Old Dad: "Think something of it." (Play on "think nothing of it" when responding to a thank you. Get it? Ha, ha) "Don't let the door hit you in the a__ on the way out." (No, not an original but he's the first one I heard use it). "Always a pleasure." (Used as a form of good-bye). Well, you get the idea. ONE MAN’S JUNK... My father has always been a great one for saving stuff. Some might call it junk but to him, every piece of string, every castaway lug nut is an irreplaceable treasure. Actually, that's not true. He too thinks it's crap and yet it still occupies a space in his life. An exploration of his garage one recent weekend yielded the following partial list of "treasures": Strips of used aluminum foil bound together by bailing wire.
A box of string, all of varying lengths. (Which reminds me of another one of his sayings: "You never know when you're going to need a good piece of rope." Which is why I have 25-ft of nylon rope in the trunk of my car)
walking; tripping and climbing would be more accurate. In any event, here is a list of things that I found, treasures every one of them: Paper bag full of old baseball caps from places like Estes Park, Colorado and the San Diego Zoo. Broken socket wrench, assorted sockets. Letters. Tons of letters. My wife and I both figure one day we'll be famous and someone will want to publish them. Half empty cans of WD-40 Old computer whose only purpose now would be as a tornado proof paperweight. Hangers for more clothes then we'll ever own in our lives. Box of assorted broken objects waiting to be glued. Again, you get the idea.
“Like all good Italians, we love food. Perhaps love is not strong enough. A closer version of the truth would be to say we worship, adore, obsess over and, if it were possible, would stalk food.” Joe Romano
FOOD FOR THOUGHT My family is Italian. Like all good Italians, we love food. Perhaps love is not strong enough. A closer version of the truth would be to say we worship, adore, obsess over and if it were possible would stalk food. I now understand my father's incessant need to know what
Bag of old pennants from places like Estes Park, Colorado and the San Diego Zoo Box of old maps some for places that don't even exist anymore. That same day, I walked around my own garage. Well, in all honesty I can't really call it
we're eating if he happens to call at dinnertime or knows we dined out. I used to travel on business several times a year and my father would relish in the details of my daily meals, enjoying them even more because he knew that the company picked up the tab. (This one I understand.) To this day, my German/ Austrian wife of 13 years does not understand why, while on the phone with her sister discussing a recent dinner date, I'm yelling in the background for details on what they ordered. Nor does she understand why I get upset if I happen to not be present during the conversation and she forgets to obtain this vital information. And yet if I forget to check the results of the weekend luge competition, I'll find myself sleeping amongst my treasures. It's a good thing I was wise enough to hold on to that Duke's of Hazzard sleeping bag. Clayton resident, Joe Romano, is a family man, a free-lance writer for hire and the Pioneer’s “all around funny guy.” E-mail him at jromano01@yahoo.com
Keys to healthy living with diabetes There are 17 million people in the United States who have diabetes. Unfortunately, 5.9 million of them don't know it. That's why diabetes is often known as the "silent killer." Without a blood test or evident symptoms, it is quite difficult to detect if you are suffering from the disease or disorder. Diabetes comes in two types: Type 1 is a disease in which the body does not pro-
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duce any insulin, most often occurring in children and young adults. People with Type 1 diabetes must take daily insulin injections to stay alive. It accounts for 5 to 10 percent of diabetes. Type 2 is a metabolic disorder resulting from the body's inability to make enough, or properly use, insulin. It is the most common form of the disease. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90 to 95 percent of diabetes cases. A greater prevalence of obesity and sedentary lifestyles in this country is quickly pushing diabetes to epidemic proportions. As a result, exercise should be a major part of your general health program as a diabetic. A regular exercise program can help stabilize your blood sugar, reduce your need for insulin and medication, and keep your weight under control. Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, but exercise can lower it. Best of all, exercise helps you get more out of life. However, because of the risks associated with diabetes, a complete health evaluation by a health-care provider should precede any new exercise program. He or she may also be
able to recommend certain activities that are safe for your particular lifestyle. GET PHYSICAL In general, aerobic activities are some of the best ways to keep in shape and control the disease. Exercises like walking, jogging, biking or swimming can raise your pulse and make you breathe harder. You'll get maximum benefits if you participate in 30 minutes or more of an activity at least three times a week. In addition, strength training (weight lifting) can also help improve fitness and heart health. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS There may be some exercises you should avoid and health precautions you should heed. Here are some important pointers: If you become dizzy or lightheaded when exercising in an upright position, swimming or biking are better than hiking or jogging. If you have poor sensation in your feet, take special care to choose proper footwear and consider low-impact exercise (swimming, biking or rowing)
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rather than walking or jogging. ·Check your blood-sugar levels before and after workouts and every 20 to 30 minutes during prolonged exercise (Many activities burn 500 to 600 calories an hour). If your blood sugar is under 100 mg/dL, eat a snack containing 15 to 30 grams of carbohydrate before you exercise. If your blood sugar is excessive (over 250 mg/dL for people with type 2 diabetes; over 200 mg/dL for those with type 1), postpone exercise until you bring it down.
Are you concerned about West Nile virus? Perhaps you're operating under the philosophy that "it won't happen to me" or "it's not in my backyard," but West Nile is a real threat. As of August 13, there have been 148 confirmed cases of West Nile in California and five fatalities. West Nile has been reported in 41 counties, including San Mateo. All age groups are susceptible to the virus. While it was previously believed that it primarily posed a threat to senior citizens, a number of states have been reporting cases of the virus in individuals in their 30s and 40s. Though many people infected with West Nile only experience flu-like symptoms, some may contract meningitis and lifelong polio-like symptoms, and some may die. Mosquito prevention is a nationwide concern and there are some simple steps you can take to limit the spread and impact of the disease. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Prevent new batches by draining birdbaths, flowerpots and any other items that may collect water. When spending time outdoors during mosquito season, use a topical insect repellent to keep potentially dangerous mosquitoes at bay. If possible, avoid the outdoors in the early morning hours and at dusk, times when mosquitoes are more likely to be out.
Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., AUG. 30 FOR THE SEPT. 10 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOING THROUGH SUMMER Produce Market @ Skipolini’s parking lot 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday Fresh produce for sale by local Smith family farm. ONGOING - SEPT. 26 Unfinished Quilts of the 30’s & 40’s @ Clayton Historical Society Museum 2-4 p.m. and by appointment. Everyday items from the 1930s and 1940s will also be on display including pictures, depression glass, clothing, toys and books. A finished “Lone Star” quilt from 1942 will be displayed. Clayton Historical Society Museum, 672-0240, 6101 Main Street, Clayton. ONGOING - AUG. 28 Bound for Books, Summer Reading Program @ Clayton Community Library Keep up your reading during the summer and win exciting prizes. See librarian for details. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. AUG. 20, 27, SEPT. 3, 10, 17 Digital Thunder Bowling @ Clayton Valley Bowl 4-6 p.m. Digital Thunder Bowling on Friday afternoons for kids includes music, lights and bumper lanes. 689-4631, Clayton Valley Bowl, 5300 Clayton Road, Concord. AUG. 2-ONGOING Art at the YMCA A brand new art program for all ages starts at the YMCA August 2, 2004. Monday- clay sculpture, Tuesday- painting, Wednesday- drawing for beginners, Thursday- advanced drawing, Friday- Children's books, writing illustrating and publishing. Pay by the month, Clayton residents: two classes per week $38, three classes per week $58, all classes $78. Nonresidents: two classes per week $45, three classes per week $69, all classes $93. All classes are held from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Clayton Community Gym, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. Classes run the month of August. For more information contact instructor Seth Ahonen at 889-1612 or 889-1600. AUG. 21 Olympian Don Bragg @ Diamond Terrace 3 p.m. Don Bragg, Olympic Gold Medal Pole Vaulter will speak at Diamond Terrace. Fun and mini-Olympian activities. AUG. 26 Tony Borders, Ventriloquist 10:30 -11:15 a.m. Stories and fun activities for children entering K through second grades. All ages welcome. No registration required. Free admission. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, 673-0659 AUG. 28 Rocky Run 2004 - Annual Motorcycle Poker Run, sponsored by the East Bay Chapter of the Iron Warriors Motorcycle Club Public safety organization of law enforcement officers and firefighters. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at McGuire Harley Davidson, 1425 Parkside Drive, Walnut Creek. Cost $15. Final destination is The Clayton Club Saloon in Clayton. Raffle, vendors, music, food. Fundraiser benefits The Wheelchair Foundation, National Community Empowerment Programs and Concerns of Police Survivors. All bikes welcome! Public welcome at The Clayton Club. AUG. 30 THRU FALL YMCA Adult and Youth programs @ Clayton Community Gym Adult programs include flag football (8/30), ultimate kickball (8/31), and volleyball (9/2). Youth sports programs include flag football (9/25), soccer (9/18) and cheerleading (9/25). Programs are eight weeks long with a two week end of season tournament. Sign up at www.mdrymca.org or call 8891625. Clayton Community Gym 700 Gym Court, Clayton. SEPT. 4 Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby On Main Street in Clayton Racing in downtown Clayton? Yep! It’s the Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby presented by Clayton Community Church and IMC. Join the community for a great
day of old fashioned soap box racing and classic cars, Saturday, Sept. 4 on Main Street Clayton. See kids ages 717 race a fleet of derby cars and help us begin a new Clayton tradition. For information check the church website, claytoncc.com or call Mike Fossan at 672-1646. SEPT. 8 After School Programs @ Clayton Community Gym 3-6 p.m., YMCA after school program for Diablo View Middle students. Homework help, sports and art activities. Fun, safe environment. Call Liz Travers for information at 889-1600. Clayton Community Gym, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. SEPTEMBER 11 Diablo Valley Western Fair @ Chestnut Avenue Community Church 2 p.m.to 9 p.m. A Tex-Mex Fair with games, food, demonstrations and a country DJ with dancing. Admission: Adults $5.00, Children (5-12) $3.00 and under 5-free. Chestnut Ave. Community Church, 3525 Chestnut Ave., Concord. SEPT. 12 Contra Costa Square Dance Workshop @ the Pacheco Community Center 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Sunday classes. Learn modern square dancing in a relaxed, friendly and fun atmosphere. No partner needed. $35 per person for 7 weeks. For information call Dick, 229-2192, Barbara, 689-2369, e-mail hiltonaud@aol.com Pacheco Community Center, 5800 Pacheco Blvd., north of Sun Valley Mall SEPT. 14, 21, 28 Patty Cakes Story Time @ Clayton Community Library 11-11:20 a.m. Story time for birth to 3 years, through October. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, 673-0659 SEPT. 16, 23, 30 Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library 11-11:25 a.m. Picture book time for 3 to 5 year olds, through October. Child may attend without parent. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, 673-0659 SEPT. 16 - OCT. 16 Seussical @ CTA Crossroads Theatre Seussical creates the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss as it has never been seen before. The Tony Awardwinning team of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty has created a score that includes pop, gospel, blues and R&B. This story, not just for kids, tells of the power of imagination, possibility and change. Opening Night: Saturday, Sept. 25, 8pm, Thursday Evenings, 8pm: Sept 30, Oct. 7, 14, Friday Evenings, 8pm: Oct. 1, 8, 15, Saturday Matinees, 2pm: Oct. 2, 9, 16, Saturday Evenings, 8pm: Oct. 2, 9, 16, Previews: Sept. 16, 17, 18, 24 all at 8pm, $22-$25 per person, Tickets at CTA Crossroads Theatre , (925) 944-0597 , www.ctacrossroads.org, CTA Crossroads Theatre, 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek SEPT. 19 Knights of Columbus Membership Drive @ St. Bonaventure Church. Membership drive will be held at the 7a.m., 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. masses. Members of the Knights will be present to answer questions about the Knights and their services to the community. The Knights of Columbus are a Fraternal group of Catholic men committed to serving the needs of the Concord and Clayton communities through the Concord Council. For information call Jack Kavanagh, 687-8039 or Sumner Peery at 827-0916. St. Bonaventure Church. 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. SEPT. 22 Back to School BBQ @ Clayton Community Gym 6:30 p.m. YMCA Community night at the Clayton Gym. Join your neighbors and classmates for hamburgers and hot dogs and games and activities on the field. Get the scoop on fall programs offered by the YMCA! Donations accepted. Call Liz Travers for information, 889-1600, Clayton Community Gym, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. SEPT. 22 Amelia Bedelia’s Fall Festival @ Clayton Community Library Wacky games, food art, a clown and more!, Registration required, call the library at 673-0659. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. OCT. 9 Pasta Dinner for World Youth Day
The Concord Council #6038, Knights of Columbus will hold a Pasta Dinner to raise funds for young adults who wish to attend World Youth Day 2005 to be held in Cologne Germany 8/11-21/2005. Dinner details to follow. For more information contact Claire Tryon 925-673-8564, or grey_eototo@msn.com.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS AUG. 26, SEPT. 2, 9, 16 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting 10 a.m., 5 & 6:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. Prospective members welcome. 800/326-8450 x2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. AUG. 26, SEPT. 2, 9, 16 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker.www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. SEPT. 10 AARP Mt. Diablo Chapter Baby Shower @ Pleasant Hill Senior Center 1:30 p.m. It’s time to knit or crochet (purchased new items also acceptable) for our baby shower to benefit the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Layette for New Born Project. All items will be donated to the Auxiliary and made into packages for needy mothers. For information call Fred Nelson, 451-1292. Pleasant Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill.
BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT AUG. 24, 31, SEPT. 7, 14, 21 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. AUG. 24, SEPT. 14, 28 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. Sept. 9 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton. SEPT. 7, 21 Clayton City Council Meeting@ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at the following locations: City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, Ohm’s Bulletin Board, 1028 Diablo St., Clayton, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton. AUG. 26, SEPT. 30 CBCA (CLAYTON BUSINESS & COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION) METING @ OAKHURST 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, Oakhurst Country Club, last non-holiday Thursday of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. Ed Hartley, President.
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION AUGUST 31 Prep Day @ Mt. Diablo Elementary School Teacher and room assignments distributed as follows: 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. for families with last names beginning with A-L only. 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. for last names M-Z only. 4:30 -p.m. - 6:30 p.m. for all families A-Z not able to come earlier. Information @ www.mdust.k12.ca.us/mountdiabloelementary. Mount Diablo Elementary.
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Belted Kingfisher seen hanging out at Diablo Creek Hello fellow bird watchers. Summer is quickly coming to an end and our nesting and migrating visitors have pretty much moved on. I had several reports of birds nesting in door wreaths, on windowsills and
wind chimes, I appreciate all of you who shared your experiences. I particularly enjoyed watching the Redtail Hawks behind Clayton City Hall around the 14th fairway at Oakhurst. Hopefully the par-
ent birds taught their young to hunt the ground squirrels which have taken over the Keller Ranch House. It would be one way to save the city a few dollars. I hope some of you had an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Green Herons, Belted Kingfishers or Phainopepla who were hanging out along Diablo Creek this summer. The Green Heron is about 16-22 inches tall, with a greenish back and a deep chestnut neck and yellow legs.When it gets excited it raises its crest and jerks its tail, which makes the bird look bigger and more frightening. This small wading bird usually prefers streams, swamps, lakes, ponds, or marshes. These birds use their long necks and long pointed bills for catching their prey in or near water. They feed on fish, frogs, crawfish, and other aquatic life. They may also feed on insects or mice. The Green Heron slowly stalks its prey or may crouch and wait for the food to come by. Another way they get their food is to rake the bottom of the shallow water with their
feet and stir up prey. Occasionally, the bird will perch on a post or tree and dive into the water after its prey. They have also been known to incorporate “tools” in their fishing. One Green Heron was spotted using a feather to attract small fish to the surface! Belted Kingfishers are unlikely to be confused with any other bird. Their huge bill,
BELTED KINGFISHER
large head with a shaggy crest and coloring are distinctive. They are 11 - 13 inches long, with a blue-gray head and upperparts contrasting with the white under parts. Both sexes have a white collar and broad
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band of blue-gray across the chest. Females have chestnut flanks (usually concealed below the folded wing) and a second chestnut band across the belly. The large head and bill contrast with the tiny legs and short tail, making Belted Kingfishers look top-heavy. Belted Kingfishers, as their name suggests, subsist mostly on fish. However, they occasionally consume other prey, including crayfish, shellfish, squid and terrestrial prey such as small birds, mammals, lizards, and insects. They have even been reported to eat berries when other food is unavailable. Belted Kingfishers typically sit at a waterside perch watching for suitable prey, usually small fish less than six inches in length. They make steep dives head first into the water. They may hover and plunge vertically from heights of up to 50 feet into the water, occasionally disappearing completely for a few seconds. They catch most fish within two feet of the surface. To stop the dive, they spread their wings under water. After catching a fish, they will beat their prey on a perch to immobilize it, then toss it into the air and swallow it head first. The Phainopepla is 7-7¾ inches, a bit larger than a sparrow, is a slender, elegant bird with a conspicuous crest, longish tail, and upright posture. Males are a glossy black, with two white wing patches that show only in flight. Females and juveniles are plain gray with pale wing patches. The Phainopepla is found mostly in southern California. However they are also found along the foothills of the Sierra Nevada range and in chaparral and oak woodland on the western side of the San Joaquin valley, like Clayton. The Phainopepla does not migrate, as a rule, but they do move around in search of better sources of berries. They leave the desert in the hottest parts of the summer moving north and along the southern coast. Although the Phainopepla is called a flycatcher, it eats mainly berries. Some of its favorites are Mistletoe, Elderberry, Poison oak, Juniper and Grape. They also like to eat insects usually by hawking, flying off one perch catching insects and then returning to the same perch. Until next column, Happy Bird Day. Cathie Gernhardt has lived in Clayton for the past 38 years. Bird watching is one of her greatest joys. She has taken classes at Wild Birds Unlimited and has frequently participated in local bird walks. You can email her at Cathie@claytonpioneer.com.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
A facial is a good excuse to get away from it all
CYNTHIA GREGORY
LOOKIN’ GOOD Are you caught up in the current makeover craze, but having trouble justifying your secret desire to skedaddle into the nearest day spa and indulge in a facial? Relax! There are many reasons to pamper yourself with the luxury of a facial; here are just a few.
Me, me, me Well actually, you. Yes, it's all about you. A facial is a good excuse to get away from it all, even if your friendly neighbor-
hood esthetician is just around the corner. Once you get into the facial sphere and strip away all the things your busy little brain thinks you should be doing, you might as well be on Venus. Think about it: an hour of you time. No irritable bosses, no phones, no errands, dogs, kids, or dry cleaning to pick up. An hour free and clear in your own private bliss zone. When was the last time you set aside time to recharge your own batteries and be pampered? The added bonus to a facial treatment is you go in as your regular self inside your regular skin, and you come out. . .you, only more fabulous because you look, and more importantly, feel sensational.
Face time Let's face it; you spend about two minutes on skincare a day, right? In the morning you're rushed, and at night you're bushed. Because we live in a crazy busy world, there are a million things that demand
our attention, but our skin is just there. It shows up everyday and hardly ever complains. It just does it job, keeping us wrapped up in a nice, neat package, keeping the good stuff in and the bad stuff out. It isn't even blatant about it when neglected, unlike hair that just keeps sprouting, all but demanding a trip to the stylist for a trim and a little color. Your amazing, hard-working skin sheds millions of cells every day and after time, if you don't help it out, it starts getting dull and loose. Worse yet, it begins broadcasting your life to the world. A periodic facial freshens and tones the skin, keeps your secrets and can help make you look like the god or goddess you truly are.
Regeneration and renewal A good facial stimulates cellular regeneration by dumping the old and singing a love song to the new. When cells turn over through stimulation like facial massage and cleansing
with ingredients that invigorate, it sends a clear message to the place where cells are born to giddy-up and get going with something fresh and new. And who doesn't like the look of fresh, new skin? Regular time spent in the care of a competent esthetician will keep your skin glowing and keep your friends wondering, "How does she do it? We keep getting older, but good grief! She's got an inside track on the fountain of youth!" There are ways to keep skin vital and youthful looking, but as they say, you can lead a filly to water. . . .
Beauty and the beast Did you know that the fastest growing segment of the skincare products market is for men? It's true. Girlfriends, our supreme secret is out. Psychological studies have actually shown that while physical beauty may not assure success, it doesn't hurt, either. Lawyers, doctors, sales executives and actors are taking their
looks seriously, getting manicures, facials, Botox treatments, and even nipped and tucked in the name of presenting a snappier image. I just saw Robert Redford's new movie, "The Clearing," and I was pleased to see that at last it looks like Bob has had some work done. Nothing dramatic, of course, because that would be a sin. Let's just say that Bob is sporting fewer of those puckery mouth wrinkles earned during rugged summers spent doing fabulous artsy actor things in the great outdoors. And lest you think that I'm just a mean old skin snob, market research bears out the long-held suspicion that men care as much about their skin, their hair, their image, as women do. It isn't about becoming a culture
of "Swans." It's about stepping out, looking good and feeling good about how you look. Face it. We weren't all born looking like Charlize Theron or Matt Damon. Problem skin warrants care, so too does stressed skin, aging skin, post-operative skin and plain old just me, me, me, skin. If you've never had a facial, you can't even imagine what you're missing. And if you don't remember the last time you surrendered to the pleasure of a facial, well my dear, all I can say is giddy on up! Cynthia Gregory holds a master's degree in fine arts and is a California licensed esthetician. She combines the surprising aspects of teaching English at Solano College and practicing esthetics at Permanent Solution, in downtown Clayton, and can be reached for comment at ceegregory@aol.com.
Ten rules for incoming freshmen So, it's your first day on that big, bad, scary high school campus. Now what? Will you blend in, or will you be taunted and held over a gross, silver trashcan? It's not that hard to start high school, some people even look forward to it. When you enter the campus it may seem huge, but it is a new horizon with more friends, interesting teachers, and sadly, the dreaded narks. However, by applying the following rules to your Freshman year, you will be a happy sophomore before you know it.
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Know Where Your Classes Are- Figure out where you are supposed to go before school starts and if you do happen to get lost, don't ask another student for directions or you may be looking for a non-existent elevator! Be Smart About ClothesA 'Freshmen Rules' shirt is never a good idea for the first day of school unless you love being duct taped to a tree or building. Bring Your Own LunchNot only will this give you time to actually eat during the lunch break, but it will save you money and prevent you from eating something unidentifiable. Don't Try to Sneak off Campus- Sneaking off campus isn't a good idea, especially during the first
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CYNTHIA WEST
STUDENT REPORTER
5
week of school. Anyway, who wants to have their parents called by the school to let them know that their 'child' missed one period or more? Get Involved- Get into a club or activity as soon as you can, anything from band to drama, a sport, or even chess club will work. Along with meeting older
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students who can be recruited to watch your back for the remainder of the year, you will have fun. Stay Away From the Student Parking Lot- Don't hang out in the student parking lot before or after school. It is meant for Juniors and Seniors with cars, which means it is probably not a smart place for you to be! Be Smart at Homecoming Rally- Have fun at the rally, but don't be the loudest one yelling, "Go home Seniors!" Get Good GradesFreshmen year will be the easiest year to get A's, so try hard. Even if people say colleges don't look at freshman year grades, they do!
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Don't Bother the Upper Classmen- This doesn't mean that you can't be friends with the Juniors and Seniors, you should be, just don't annoy them or call them constantly.
And last, but not least, while you ponder the rules above, pay special attention to rule #10:
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Don't Forget to Have Fun- Your Freshman year will be over before you know it!
Cynthia West is a junior at CVHS. E-mail her at cvhsnews@claytonpioneer.com
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(925) 935-7447 (925)
CST# 1009044-40
August 20, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Even very young children can communicate with simple sign language WHAT’S YOUR SIGN? Many parents, grandparents and other caregivers spend a great deal of time anxiously waiting for a child’s “first word.” But long before the intricate process of speaking words develops, a young child is capable of communicating using gestures and simple sign language. When a naturally curious infant or toddler is paired with an equally dedicated adult, young children can
meaning. For example, if I tap my head to tell you “hat,” and my parent interprets my sign as “hat,” it is mutually agreed upon. Therefore, it is communication. And very likely, my parent will gladly look around and find the hat!
JENNY ROSENQUIST engage in wonderfully rich and rewarding communicative interactions long before they can communicate in the “verbal” world. Sign language is a tool that many of us in the field use daily with our young clients who have communication delays and disorders. It serves a variety of purposes, but in the world of infants and toddlers, we use it as a method of communication to “bridge the gap” until their
verbal language is developed. It allows the languagedelayed child an avenue in which he can express himself, and empowers even very young children to actively communicate. We can teach the child the sign for juice, and at snack time that child can request his juice long before he would be able to say it. Several types of sign language systems exist, but we use SEE sign (Signed Exact
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TOTS
TO
TEENS
English) because these signs are often very visually descriptive of the word they convey. (For example, “cat” is signed by using your thumb and index finger to pull a whisker out from your nose to your cheek). Sign language is really just an elaborate and systematic use of gestures. These gestures are mutually agreed upon for
HOW YOUNG IS TOO YOUNG? Research shows that children as young as nine months can use signs and other gestures to communicate their wants and needs to their primary caregivers. Research into the use of sign language with infants and toddlers has shown that using these complex gestures will improve the speed in which a child can talk, stimulate their intellectual development, increase their self esteem and strengthen the parent-infant bond.
HOW DO I START? Infants and toddlers have all kinds of thoughts in their minds, just waiting for an avenue of expression. They’ve spent many months watching, learning, exploring and thinking. And they are ready to communicate through the use of gestures. An easy way to start is a fingerplay. How about The Itsy Bitsy Spider or Wheels on the Bus? If you’re interested in taking it further, there are lots of videos and books specifically designed to enhance the signed and gestural communication skills of the very young child. Jenny Rosenquist, MA, CCCSLPis a Speech-Language Pathologist and Director of Therapy Services for We Care Services for Children. She can be reached at (925) 691-7044
Marsh Creek/Morgan Territory Residents
This i s f or y ou!
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
August 20, 2004
Colorful Crape Myrtle blooms in profusion and puts on quite a show all over town emerge in spring. After leaf has come out give the plant its annual treatment of iron to keep its leaves green. Now lets get to the fun part of the Crape Myrtle. There are so many colors to delight in.
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
CRAPE MYRTLE TREES ARE IN BLOOM all over town.
Clayton is experiencing Crape Myrtle Mania! These hot weather bloomers have caught our eye with their pinks, reds, lavenders and white panicles of color. Lagerstroemia thrives in the heat. They are sold as multitrunk shrubs or trained as a tree. They tolerate a wide range of conditions, whether it is rich garden soil or poor slope dirt. Most varieties of Crape Myrtle have a showy fall color display and pol-
ished bark as the plant matures. You may enjoy a traditional or a dwarf selection depending on your application. Crape Myrtle has an upright habit and outward arching branches. They bloom on new wood and should be pruned late winter and early spring to improve that season’s flower production. A multi-purpose granular fertilizer should be applied as leaf begins to
WATERMELON RED The absolute most requested shade of Crape Myrtle is Watermelon Red. This selection grows 20-25 feet tall, is somewhat rounded in shape and makes an excellent border tree. Large, long lasting clusters of vivid red flowers appear once summer starts to heat up. The fall color of the Watermelon Red Crape Myrtle is golden yellow. Consider using an evergreen to support the Crape Myrtle. Phormium Amazing Red staggered between and forward of the Watermelon Red Crape Myrtle creates a low maintenance high impact combination. The Amazing Red reaches 4 feet tall and wide with its fan shaped clumps of burgundy bronze sword-like foliage. The vivid red blooms of the Myrtle pulls out the pink of the phormium, the golden fall color contrast with the dark blades. During the winter, while your Crape Myrtle is dormant, you still have the hardy foliage of the phormium. LAGERSTROMERIA TUSCARORA. If you are having a hard
time finding the Watermelon only 9 feet tall and 8 feet Red selection of Crape wide. This is a special introMyrtle for your property line duction featuring larger, garden, think about dark lavender flower trusses in summer, Lagerstromeria improved hardiTuscarora. This ness and fine option reaches peeling bark. roughly the This variety has same height and excellent fall width of color, from Wa t e r m e l o n orange-red to Red; the flower m a r o o n . display is coral Combine a pink through multi-trunk summer with an Zuni with iceexquisite berg florabunda orange-red NICOLE HACKETT roses and foliage color in GARDEN GIRL P r o v e n c e the fall. Lavender to Spectacular smooth, mottled, light cinna- calm a garden. All these mon brown bark adds year choices are Clayton proof round interest. Surrounded and beautiful. with the Amazing Red BRICK RED DYNAMITE Phormium, the Tuscarora A new-to-me variety of Crape Myrtle will accent, Crape Myrtle that’s very contrast and succeed. exciting is the bright brick CATAWBA AND ZUNI red Dynamite. Awesome to Catawba and Zuni are look at and reaching 15 feet both great purples in the tall and 12 feet wide this Crape Myrtle family. selection would make a great Gardens containing the gray secondary tree. Plant a hill foliage of lavenders and sage side or a large area with the welcome this introduction to Flowering Plum trees that bring the whole look togeth- have the pink blooms in er. Catawba reaches 15 feet spring and the hardy dark tall and wide, with a rounded purple leaf all summer long. shape. Long lasting clusters The dark foliage of the flowof dark purple crepe-like ering plum contrast with the flowers in summer, hand- Dynamite Crepe Myrtle cresome foliage, orange-red fall ates a punch in the yard. One may plant color and mildew resistant are this variety’s claim to Loropetalum Razzleberri as an evergreen to support the fame. Zuni on the other hand deciduous trees. The bronze makes a great multi-trunk red foliage maturing to green shrub. This selection reaches has a high interest even
“Look Who’s Selling Clayton!”
when not in bloom and early spring brings on bright pink explosions of color. Depending on the size of the planting area, consider a hardy ground cover such as Ceanothus Carmel Creeper. This evergreen woody ground cover takes harsh conditions, has a dark green foliage and true blue flower. GLENDORA WHITE Glendora White is another great Crape Myrtle selection. She displays large, long lasting clusters of snowy white crepe-like flowers in summer when few whites are in bloom. Reaching 25 feet tall and wide, making this Crape Myrtle a noble choice with a formal feel. It is great used as a lawn tree or as a pair in the front yard at the property line corners. The clean feel found with the white flower trusses lends itself to gardenias and roses, topiaries and hedges. Glendora White is a simple addition that makes a bold statement. Crape Myrtle creates gardens. These heat-loving wonders are easy to water, maintain and love. Plant one as an accent or in mass plantings. Stand back and enjoy. Be sure to add soil conditioner when installing any plant in our area. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her at with questions, comments or suggestions at GardenGirl94517@aol.com
visit us online at
HELP-U-SELL REAL ESTATE SERVICES helpusell.com 4918 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521 (925) 680-4950
522 Mt. Davidson Court
Clayton
We sold our home the first day of open house using Help-U-Sell! We were very pleased with the service & even saved over $36,100 in real estate commissions! We highly recommend using Help-U-Sell! S. Beinfest
We sold our home on 1816 Yolanda Circle in Clayton in 4 days using Help-U-Sell & saved over $27,600 in real estate commissions. This was by far the best real estate experience we have ever had! We are so happy with the results that we recommended Help-U-Sell to all our neighbors. J. Mann
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$685,000
25 Atchinson Stage Rd.
Clayton
d $36,110 aved Sold! Selllerr S
ng Pendin
ng Pendin
$699,000
5830 Del Trigo Lane
Clayton
$565,000
182 Mt. Wilson Way
Clayton
$751,000
4 Large bedrooms, 2 updated baths, approx 2325 sq.ft. Spacious formal living & dining room w/vaulted ceilings, family room w/wet bar, hardwood floor entry, updated eat-in kitchen w/tile counters & central heat/air. Spacious master suite, tile roof, new exterior paint & meticulously maintained yards!
Awake to Views of Mt. Diablo! 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Approx 2,549 sq. ft., Custom additions w/permits, new roof, pergo flrs, spacious family room w/brick fireplace & formal living & dining room w/bay windows, 3 sets of French doors, private landscaped backyard w/deck & RV parking too! Light & bright throughout!
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,659 sq.ft. Large .26 acre lot! Original hardwood flrs throughout, formal living rm w/fireplace, light & bright family rm & eat-in kitchen w/double oven. Central heat, vaulted ceilings, shutters/blinds throughout & large backyard with sparkling pool
5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, approx 2,692 sq.ft. Lovely kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, gas stove, tile counters and garden window! Gas fireplace in family room, oak hardwoood flr in entry, kitchen & eating area, wet bar & large laundry room with storage. Master Bedroom features views & private deck, lovely backyard with spa & gorgeous views!
035 d $9,0 aved Sold! Selllerr S
650! d $12,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S
050! d $13,0 aved Sold! Selllerr S
350! d $24,3 aved Sold! Selllerr S
10 Mount Hamilton Ct.
Clayton
$599,500
263 Stranahan Circle
Clayton
$460,000
19 Long Creek Circle
Clayton
$350,000
4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,740 sq.ft. Huge premium lot! Huge backyard with fruit trees galore (plum, almond & orange). Backs to greenbelt. No rear neighbors! View of Mt. Diablo! Newer roof, updated kitchen with breakfast nook & very quiet neighborhood close to schools!
3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,339 sq.ft. Built in 95', Desirable floor plan w/master downstairs accessing patio. Sparkling kitchen with tile counters & gas appliances, elegant living room w/marble gas fireplace & neutral like new carpet, paint & linoleum. Professionally landscaped front & backyards & desirable corner lot!
3 Bedrooms, 2 updated Baths, approx 1,075 sq.ft. Great Location in Clayton! Gorgeous Detached Town-Home with attached garage! Large front and back patio with trees! Hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen with white cabinets and granite tile counters & spacious family room for all your entertaining!
750! d $20,7 aved Sold! Selllerr S
d $5976! aved Sold! Selllerr S
s!! Sold in 4 day 50! 6 ,6 7 2 $ d ed v Selllerr Sa
1221 Buckeye Terrace
Clayton
$495,000
3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,639 sq.ft. Lovely home with decorator touches throughout! Spacious living/dining room combo with gleaming hardwood floors and double sided ceramic tile fireplace! Family room with custom tile and double sided ceramic tile fireplace, inside laundry room & lovely landscaped backyard with built-in BBQ, stamped cement & wired for a spa. Large Gourmet Kitchen with tile counters, gas stove, built-in microwave and dishwasher. Low Hoa Too!
1355 Shell Lane
Clayton
$420,000
3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,430 sq.ft. Built in 93' Patio home with Hot tub, large open kitchen, Spacious family room w/wood burning tile fireplace that opens to back patio. Newly landscaped beautiful back patio. Views of Mt. Diablo & large master suite with vaulted ceilings too! 2 car attached garage. 2 Story unit!
1816 Yolanda Circle
Clayton
$619,500
3 Large Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,780 sq.ft. Gorgeous home inside & out! Spacious family room w/woodburning fireplace, dining room w/wood floors, new heat/air & new roof. Master Bedroom with French doors to private Trex patio deck, fruit trees & generous side & backyard with RV parking. Great Clayton Neighborhood!
5839 Verna Way East
Clayton
$555,000
4 Bedrooms, 2 Updated Baths, approx 1,680 sq.ft. Huge .31 Lot with RV parking! Spacious family room w/brick wood burning fireplace & French doors off Dining room, new carpet, fresh paint in/out & tile entry. Some hardwood floors, spacious master suite, new heat/air & new roof/gutters.
d $9,158! aved Sold! Selllerr S
22 Mountaire Ct.
Clayton
$759,950
5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, approx 2960 sq.ft. Immaculate inside & out! Professionally landscaped front and backyard. Gorgeous gourmet kitchen with granite counter, bay window, breakfast nook & much more! New paint in and out, 3 car garage, new dual pane windows and custom built-ins throughout. Must See!
You Could Save $27,050! By selling your home with Help-U-Sell instead of with brokers who charge a 6% commission* (the savings are based on a home selling for $600,000).You can select from many fine real estate professionals.Why not choose one that will also save you money when you sell? *Commissions are negotiable and not set by law.
You’re Paying How Much To Sell Your Home?
LOW FEES HAPPY CUSTOMERS!
Visit our new office at 4918 Clayton Road
August 20, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
It's happening at
Áegis Senior Living
Antique Car Show "Diablo A's" will be showing their Model A Ford Car Collection at our Community
Sunday, August 22nd Noon to 2:00 p.m. Join us for some cool lemonade and an afternoon of fun and music with "Banjo Express"
4756 Clayton Road, Concord
925.692.5838
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
GEORGE VUJNOVICH,
August 20, 2004
Broker
(925) 672-4433
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517
EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
georgevujnovich.com NEW CONSTRUCTION CONCORD/ CLAYTON BORDER
CHAPARRAL SPRINGS AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
G DIN N E P
Superb "Lassen" model! 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,162sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry on quiet court. Bonus room/5th bedroom. Upgraded tile floors in entry, hall, bath & kitchen. Living room with vaulted ceiling & track lighting. Large formal dining room features crown molding, upgraded "wood" laminate floors & "French doors". Spacious family room features wet bar & upgraded brick fireplace with raised hearth. Gourmet kitchen boasts maple cabinets, tile counters, breakfast bar & island. Lavish master suite offers a two-way tile fireplace & jetted tub! Private lot features extensive use of exposed aggregate & brick including patio & pool backdrop with water feature. Freeform in-ground pool with separate in-ground spa. A must see! $875,000
Palatial Mediterranean Estate! Approx. 8,000sf, 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half baths, 2 bonus rooms, library, enormous family room, formal dining & living rooms, 3 fireplaces. Grand foyer features a dramatic spiral staircase. Gourmet kitchen boasts commercial grade stainless steel appliances. Exceptional attention to detail from the state of the art mechanical systems to the rustic Italian doors & cabinetry throughout! Premium view lot overlooks city to Delta. Situated on a huge-approx. .70 acre lot on a quiet cul-de-sac. $2.5 million
Just Listed! Wonderful "Willow" model! Carefree living at its best in the largest model! 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 1,745 sf with convenient upstairs inside laundry & 2 car attached garage. New paint & neutral dĂŠcor. Downstairs bedroom (or den) with full bath. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded tile counters, floors & an abundance of oak cabinets. Living room with vaulted ceiling & upgraded marble tile fireplace. Master suite overlooks wooded greenbelt with partial Mt. Diablo views. Rear yard features a large exposed aggregate patio with brick trim & relaxing spa. $499,000
FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
ING D N PE
Great single story "Moonlight" model! 3 bedrooms + den, 2 baths, approx. 2,237sf with inside laundry & 2 car garage with optional workshop/storage area. New designer paint & neutral carpet! Upgraded pleated window coverings & tile floors. Gourmet kitchen features tile floor, counters & island. Family room with river rock fireplace & tile floors. Den looks out to oak dotted hillside. Spacious master suite with a slider to flagstone patio with top-of-the-line spa! Very private and cozy yard features flagstone and custom stamped patios, lawn area, a wonderful assortment of vibrant flowers, ornamentals & a variety of maturing trees. $719,500
ING D N PE
Prime golf course view lot! Beautifully upgraded "Kirker" model backs to 5th fairway with course & hillside views. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,313sf. Gorgeous 18" tile floors throughout 1st level & all baths. Upgraded door trim, baseboards & window coverings. Gourmet kitchen features bull-nosed solid slab granite counters & island, plus eating area with upgraded light & slider to patio with views! Family room with marble tile fireplace & wet bar. Spacious master suite offers a bay window sitting nook. Rear yard with large trellis covered deck & patio with relaxing spa looking out to golf course & gently rolling hills. $724,500
ING D N PE
Sensational single story! "Champagne" model on a prime view lot overlooking valley to Delta & beyond! 3 bedrooms + den, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,542sf & 3 car garage. Gated courtyard entry features a fountain & pond. Beautifully upgraded inside & out! Interior upgrades include: 12" tile floors, neutral carpet, designer paint, door trim, central vacuum, window coverings & more! Den with upgraded French doors & closet with custom built-in cabinetry. Gourmet kitchen boasts granite tile counters, island, full back-splash & maple cabinets. Enormous master suite with jetted tub! Extensive use of river rock & brick in front & rear hardscape! Private lot features an in-ground freeform pool with built-in spa, waterfall, custom stamped patio, outdoor speakers, landscape lighting, a spectacular array of colorful flowers & panoramic views! $925,000
WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
G DIN N E P
Just Listed! Immaculate "Crandall" model! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,877sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Original model features: Cathedral ceilings in living room, all bedrooms & upstairs hallway, skylight in master bath & garden window in kitchen. Upgraded marble tile in entry. Living room with upgraded marble tile fireplace & wet bar. Gourmet kitchen with parquet wood floors & tile counters. Master suite overlooks oak dotted hill. Park-like rear yard boast mature landscape, large flat lawn area, custom exposed aggregate patio, very private & serene setting. Views of valley to Carquinez from top of hill $629,000
VINEYARD/HORSE PROPERTY
ING D N PE
Vinyard/horse property. Spectacular 4-year old, 1story, contemporary lodge-style home. 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, apx. 3,416sf, 3 car garage + rv & more parking. Enormous great room features a dramatic custom fireplace, 16" tile floors & soaring vaulted beam ceiling. Romantic master suite with fireplace, jetted tub & sitting patio with views. Apx. 1.00 acre lot boasts a vineyard & offers a shaded horse area surrounded by majestic Heritage oaks. An irreplaceable must see setting! $999,000