Dec 06 Clayton Pioneer 2013

Last Ch Ente ance to r Clay ton P the ion 10th Annu eer al

Chris tmas Cook Cont ie est Entry Form Page

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

4

925.672.0500

‘Heart for Christmas’ display kicks off a season of goodwill TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

JULIE PIERCE

MAYOR’S CORNER

Change coming to City Hall As my turn as your mayor rotates to a close, I want to thank you all for your responses to my columns. It’s always fun to hear from you. One of my colleagues will be writing in this space for the next issue.

We are so fortunate in Clayton to have a fantastic city staff who keep our town operating “in the black” and on sound financial footing despite the economy and the state’s best attempts to derail us. Our City Manager, Gary Napper, leads a great team, mentoring and coaching each to their best performance. They do their utmost to underestimate revenues and overestimate expenses, then pinch every penny as far as it can go. We truly appreciate their dedication!

This month, we are looking at some transitions within our small staff.

Our long-time Finance Manager,

See Mayor page 5

Jules Bianchi Photography

CLAYTON ‘LIGHTMEISTER’ JEFFREY HOLMES WAS LOOKING FOR A BIGGER REASON than simple entertainment to construct a dazzling musical light display at his family home in Clayton. He didn’t need to look further than Katie-Grace Groebner, 11, who is waiting for a heart-lung transplant. The holiday display is free, but Holmes is asking for donations to two charities that support organ transplants and provide support for children with terminal illness.

At 5 p.m. on Dec. 6, the Holmes family’s two story Colonial on Pine Lane will light up the night sky with a dazzling display of thousands of Christmas lights programmed to “dance” to music as Jeffrey Holmes pulls the switch on what was originally meant to be a simple gift to his mom.

The 22-year-old Holmes is no stranger to drama and lights. When he was just 16, his first musical light display won the 2007 Clayton Pioneer’s Home Decorating Contest. Two years later, the whole downtown lit up at Christmas time with Holmes’ dazzling light and music show at the Clayton Community Church – all drama, all colorful and all entertaining.

But, in March when Holmes started planning this latest display, he wanted something more. A family friend, Katie Grace Groebner, suffers from pulmonary hypertension and is awaiting a heart-lung transplant. Katie Grace was the inspiration Holmes needed for “A Heart for Christmas.”

The show became an outreach— an opportunity to focus attention on and

See Holiday

Events page 2

No criminal charges in Morgan Fire Clayton woman works to Contra Costa District Attorney Mark Peterson announced last week that he will not be filing criminal charges in the Morgan Fire.

The Sept. 9 fire started when the grandson of the owner of the mercury mines on Morgan Territory Road was target shooting on what was designated as a rifle range on the family’s private property. “There is no evidence the fire was intentionally started,” said Peterson in a state-

ment issued Nov. 27.

He further determined that there was “no evidence that the use of the involved rifle or ammunition in that area was in violation of state law.

According to Peterson’s report, a steel projectile fired from the rifle hit a rock and sparked a fire in dry grass.

That fire was quickly extinguished, but sparked a bigger “spot fire” 1000 feet away in a pine grove. It was this spot fire that raged out of control.

The fire burned 3,111 acres on Mt. Diablo and North Peak and burned for five days at an estimated cost of $5.3 million.

“We are fully aware of the tremendous harm to property and the environment caused by the fire,” states Peterson. “However, in the final analysis, the key legal question

See Morgan

Fire page 9

CVCHS football and community rally around teens struck by tragedy DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

Every teenager wants a car. But for Sammy King, 18, and her two younger siblings, a car is more than just a ride to visit friends, see a movie or go on a road trip.

The King family’s story reads like something out of Dickens. Three children, ages 11-18, whose father died a few years ago, just recently lost their mother to cancer. In a final, ignominious blow, the family car was then repossessed.

Through the tragedies, eldest sister Sammy strove to keep her and her siblings lives stable, in the area where they attended school and have friends.

“There was no question we had to

DESPITE HARDSHIP, the Bennett family hangs together and enjoys the good times. From left, Stephanie 12, Gabe, 17, mom Dawn, Nicole, 14 and Nate, 10 (front).

What’s Inside Behind the Badge . . . . . . . . .6 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

stay here, whatever it takes,” she said.

Everyone, from extended family to friends to complete strangers off the street stepped forward. A friend opened her home as a place for Sammy to live and helps her with rides to school at DVC, while extended family offered homes to her younger siblings. A trust fund was started to help cover the children’s expenses. And the Clayton Valley Charter High School football team – on which Sammy’s 16year old brother Jacob plays – reached out as well, with the whole team showing up for their mother’s funeral service and offering both moral and financial support.

“Our community has been crazy

See King,

Bennet families,

Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Community Calendar . . . . .16 Concord City Beat . . . . . . . .8 Design and Décor . . . . . . . .19 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5 Fashion over 50 . . . . . . . . .18 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

give parolees a 2nd Chance

page 14

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

COLLETTE CARROLL CELEBRATES THE REALIZATION OF A DREAM with the opening of 2nd Chance Boutique, a small shop in Concord that will fund transitional housing for parolees recently released from prison. Alton “Coach” McSween (left) and James McCartney were instrumental in completing the boutique.

PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

San Quentin prison doesn’t seem like the type of place to find your passion, but don’t tell that to Collette Carroll. Not only did the Clayton woman fall in love with her husband Roland Peck while the two were volunteer singers at the prison more than 14 years ago, she found her lifelong goal: helping the men incarcerated there make a smooth and healthy transition back “out” when the time came.

Carroll and Peck started the California Reentry Institute, a program both inside and out of the prison, that assists ex-convicts with their transi-

Holiday Shopping Guide . . .10 Letter to the Editor . . . . . . . .6 Mind Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .17 Pine Hollow Reporter . . . . . .9 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

tion back to society. And late last month, another one of Carroll’s dreams was realized when she opened the 2nd Chance Boutique, a new and gently-used clothing and accessory store that supports CRI and the soonto-open Roland’s Place, a home for recent parolees enrolled in CRI. “This is like a dream come true for me,” Carroll says from behind the counter at the bustling boutique, located at the corner of Clayton and Dekinger Roads, near Safeway.

The only blemish on the accomplishment is that Peck wasn’t there to see her success; he passed away two years ago.

Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Sports Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Sports Shorts . . . . . . . . . . .13 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Voyage of the Eagle . . . . . . .9 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . . .7

See 2nd

Chance page 8

Like us on

Facebook

Postal Customer ECRWSS PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

Holiday Events, from page 1 raise funds for children suffering from terminal illness. So, Holmes paired up with the Children’s Organ Transplant Association and the Ronald McDonald House Care Mobile. After using 10 percent to help offset the electricity bill, donations will be split equally between the two organizations.

“A Heart for Christmas” musical light show has more than 30,000 lights that “dance” to music, but the display doesn’t stop at just lights. Set over the entire one-acre family property, the display includes laser shows, snowmen and snow machines. On Dec. 15, the CVCHS chorus will give a holiday concert.

“This has been a true collaboration of love,” says Holmes, who had help from his sister Jules Bianchi, a photographer and volunteers from 14 families.

The display is free for everyone, but Holmes recommends groups of 20 or more make a reservation online where they can request hot cocoa or a photo with Santa (nominal donation).

The display opens Dec. 6 at the Holmes’ home, 1185 Pine Lane (east of town off Marsh Creek Rd.) and will run every night from 5 until 9 p.m.

Mon.-Thurs., and 5-11 p.m.

Fri., Sat. and Sun. through Dec. 31. Rain cancels. For reservations or more information, call (925) 276-0708 or go to AHeartForChristmas.com.

Mr. Christmas For the 33rd year, “Mr. Christmas” will celebrate the holiday season with the traditional light display at 5208 Olive Dr. in Concord. The lights go on at dusk and the display is free, although Mr. Christmas gratefully accepts donations to help with the PG&E bill. To learn about Mr. Christmas, see the movie at mrchristmasmovie.com

Tree Lighting

Clayton: Starting at 4 p.m., sleigh bells jingle and the fun begins with the downtown carriage rides sponsored by the Dynamic Realtor Group, the Moresi Family and P2C Foundation. At 6 p.m., the MDE School chorus will begin the CBCA Tree Lighting Festivities with Christmas music at the Gazebo where Santa will arrive to lead the “parade” down Main Street for the annual tree lighting. More info on page 11.

Concord: The clip-clop sound of horse-drawn carriages will also ring through downtown Concord when the festivities begin at 4 p.m. at Todos Santos Plaza. At 5, the music starts, followed by the Mayor’s Sing Along and the lighting of the official tree.

Clayton Pioneer Cookie Contest Dust off the rolling pin, dig through Great-aunt Emma’s recipe file and bake up a storm for the 10th annual Clayton Pioneer Christmas Cookie Contest. Judging party starts at 6:30 at the Clayton Library.

While the judges are doing their work, the musical Van Liew family will lead the caroling. There will be tables for face-painting and crafts. It’s rumored Santa will make an appearance. After the judging, everyone can sample all the entries and pick their own winners. Entries must be in by Dec. 10. Turn to page 4 for the entry form.

and get a photo with Santa (bring your own camera) at Endeavor Hall on Center St. in

Christmas Home Tour set to dazzle This holiday season, Clayton residents have the opportunity to view beautiful pottery from Italy, a collection of Santas and reindeer, a houseful of Christmas trees, a collection of Annalisse dolls, a gingerbread village and numerous antiques and collectables, all without leaving their hometown.

These can all be viewed in six area homes as the Clayton Historical Society hosts its fourth Annual Christmas Home Tour on Dec. 15, 2013 from noon to 7 p.m.

Tickets are $30 a person, benefitting the Clayton Museum.

The self guided tour begins at the Clayton Museum at 6101 Main Street, Clayton.

Each home on the tour features a different theme or decorating scheme. The Cerruti family is all about Italy, with pottery and showpieces from Italy, Mackenzie and Tiffany and a Christmas Tree in every room.

The Fitzgerald home features collections of Santas and reindeer, as well as an entire Santa’s workshop and a nutcracker collection.

The Huffords have traveled the world and lived in England and Indonesia. Their home fea-

Dessert with Mrs. Claus On Dec. 14, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. sugar will again be the main course at the annual CBCA Dessert with Mrs. Claus. Visit with Mrs. Claus

Mr. Christmas Light Display

325 Mount Palomar Pl. – Clayton

Clayton. The event is free, however donations are accepted. See ad on page 10.

PENDING PROPERTIES

tures collections from all over the world, including swans, Christmas cookie jars, tea pots, Santas and even Clayton Business & Community Association Christmas Trees. Refreshments will also be served.

The Kommer home lights up the skies with its array of twinkling lights, while the Faina home features multiple Christmas trees and an over-the-top Christmas Disney collection.

Finally, the Gonsalves home will feature a collection of Annalisse dolls, as well as a dining room “Winter Wonderland.”

The kitchen and living areas are decorated in gingerbread style.

Purchase tickets at claytonhistory.org or at the Clayton Museum on Main St. on the day of the event.

Helping friends, neighbors & newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979

204 Falcon Place – Clayton Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

6160 Center St., Suite E, Clayton

Better Homes DRE#00933393

Windmill Canyon at Oakhurst Country Club!

(925) 672-4433

Large Larson Model on a court with wooded, hillside and golf course views! 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, approx. 2467sf. 1st floor bedroom & full bath! Private low maintenance lot features a deck, patio & nice lawn area! $674,000

Dana Hills Rancher with Rare Find Custom Builders Option featuring In-Law unit! 5 bed-

helping Homeowners SUCCESSFULLY close their short sale transactions since 2007.

Concord

rooms, 3 full baths, approx. 3211sf on a HUGE approx. 27 acre lot with pool! $669,000

Short Sale Specialists

Desirable Roundtree Complex!

SOLD PROPERTIES 3065 Windmill Canyon Dr. – Clayton

Clayton Market Update

Sparkling & Updated 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath, approx. 973sf.

Updated kitchen with dining area. Bamboo floors throughout 1st level. Great location in complex. Walk to shopping, dining and transportation! $220,000

provided by Better Homes Realty ADDRESS

1230 Roanwood Way – Concord

Great Single Story “Augusta” model in Ironwood/Windmill Canyon!

Backing to open space. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1835sf on a private lot! $589,500

Desirable Dana Farms! 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,228sf on a HUGE approx. .30 acre lot! 1st floor master suite! $539,000

George Vujnovich

Jennifer Stojanovich

Broker

Broker-Associate

Clayton Resident

Lifelong Concord/Clayton Resident

(925) 672-4433 cell: (925) 348-5700 georgevujnovich@sbcglobal.net Cal BRE #00711036

www.georgevujnovich.com

(925) 567-6170 Cal BRE #01446062

PRICE

SF

3065 Windmill Canyon Dr....$589,500 321 ROundhill Place ............$648,100 937 Oak Street.....................$841,000 355 Mt. Washington Way.....$675,000 1729 Indian Wells Way ........$527,000 3105 Coyote Circle ..............$310,000 6026 Mitchell Creek Pl.........$598,000 1102 Peacock Creek Drive ..$964,000 347 Semillon Circle..............$675,000 1521 N. Atchinson Stage .....$650,000 117 Mountaire Parkway .......$649,000 638 Julpun Loop ..................$510,000 4005 Coyote Circle ..............$299,999 1267 Shell Circle .................$375,000

jenstojanovich@yahoo.com

www.jenniferstojanovich.com

BED/BATH

. . . .1835 . . . .2300 . . . .3989 . . . .1919 . . . .1904 . . . .1026 . . . .2184 . . . .3313 . . . .2390 . . . .2164 . . . .2177 . . . .1904 . . . .1026 . . . .1145

SALE DATE

. . . . .3/2 . . . . . .11/15/13 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .11/15/13 . . . . .4/3.25 . . . .11/14/13 . . . . .3/2 . . . . . .11/14/13 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .11/13/13 . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . .11/1/13 . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .11/1/13 . . . . .5/3 . . . . . .10/31/13 . . . . .4/2 . . . . . .10/31/13 . . . . .5/3 . . . . . .10/31/13 . . . . .4/3 . . . . . .10/31/13 . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .10/30/13 . . . . .2/2 . . . . . .10/20/13 . . . . .2/2 . . . . . .10/25/13

Don Howard Realtor-Associate

Clayton Resident

(925) 408-3184 Donald.kent.howard@gmail.com

Emily Howard

Realtor-Associate

925-408-1871 howard.emily05@gmail.com Cal BRE #01846446 & Cal BRE#01938441

howardhomeseastbay.com

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Super Holiday Boutique features shopping, strings, Santa on Sunday bring smiles to the attendees.

There will be free holiday arts and crafts activities allowing kids to make keepsake presents for their family and friends.

Each attendee will receive a free raffle ticket. The donation of each can of food to the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano will earn the donor another raffle ticket. The first 300 families through the door will receive a holiday goody bag.

Photo courtesy Contra Costa Suzuki Strings

THE CONTRA COSTAS SUZUKI STRINGS will be performing at 1 and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at Centre Concord as part of the 4th annual Super Holiday Boutique. Admission to the event, which runs from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. is free. The group of young musicians will be selling raffle tickets to help fund their mission next summer to Teupasenti, Honduras to bring music to the children of that area.

The holiday season’s largest shopping extravaganza is the fourth annual Super Holiday Boutique indoors at Centre Concord this Sunday, Dec. 8, from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. with free admission and parking. A group of young local musicians, Contra Costa Suzuki Strings, will be performing and also raising funds for their mission to Honduras next summer.

The free holiday event at Centre Concord will allow shoppers to get those special one-ofa-kind holiday gifts and stocking stuffers for family, friends and colleagues from a variety of arts and crafts vendors, home-based businesses and commercial exhibitors.

Toys, clothing, jewelry, purses, cosmetics, candles, soaps, candy, fashion accessories, home goods, bath and body products, books, kitchenware and cooking products, baked goods and so much more will be available. There will also be holiday decorations galore along with self-help and home

improvement exhibitors.

A raffle will benefit the Contra Costa Suzuki Strings as they prepare for their Music on a Mission trip to Children’s Rescue Mission in Teupasenti, Honduras next June and July. Besides performing and teaching music to the children at the mission the group plans on leaving violins for the students to play in the future. The group will perform at 1 and 3 p.m. during the Super Holiday Boutique.

Becky Van Liew of Clayton is the mother of two ensemble members, Peter (12) and Lynnsae (18). She explains that the Contra Costa Suzuki Strings are a group of violin students under the tutelage of Clayton’s Laurie Carlson, who uses the Suzuki method of musical training. “Students first learn music by ear followed by learning to read music, as we do with language. The goal being to enjoy the music and then do the technical part.”

Carlson has traveled to Teupasenti the past two summers and took her violin, which the

children and families there enjoyed. Van Liew adds, “As our group heard about this several of the families said ‘wouldn’t it be great for our children to go.’

It seemed everyone loved the idea, so that is what we are working towards. We hope the children can share their love of Jesus and music with the families at the mission and surrounding villages.”

Contra Costa Suzuki Strings will be working with Children’s Rescue Mission directed by Miguel Giron, a Honduran immigrant from Teupasenti who manages CRM from its Norwalk, Connecticut headquarters.

He returned to Honduras after 1998 Hurricane Mitch in hopes of finding his missing parents and was so moved by the tragic circumstances that he dedicated his life’s work to the people of Teupasenti.

Santa will be on hand to hear holiday wishes starting at 12 noon and he’ll pose for free photo opportunities for kids of all ages. JoJo the Clown will also

Concord

$238,000

Concord

$559,000

Pine Hollow Estates – Single-story home with 4BD/2.5BA is in a convenient location to schools, parks & shopping. This wonderful home offers hardwood & garden window in the kitchen, indoor laundry, and a great private backyard with deck & fresh landscaping.

2-Story Condo – Just adjacent to the greenbelt, this 2BD/1.5BA has nice-sized bedrooms and baths. The kitchen has some updates and dishwasher.

Community pool and laundry facility are nice perks. A great buy!

Super Holiday Boutique is free to the public with free parking around the venue at 5298 Clayton Rd. behind InShape Sport and Clayton Valley Bowl. Visit www.ConcordHolidayExpo.com for more information.

Jeanette R. Hochstatter, O.D

Clayton Valley Shopping Center Next door to Jamba Juice 5442 Ygnacio Valley Rd, #180 Concord, CA 94521 (925) 672-4100 www.ForesightOptometry.com *Sale on select frames and designers only. Not valid with other offers or insurance. Flex spending applies.

Clayton

$369,000

Westwood – 4BD/3BA duet has 1,865 sq. ft. including two master bedrooms. Living Room has fireplace.

Eat in kitchen with island & breakfast bar. Enjoy fenced backyard and hot tub. Close to shopping & restaurants.

Clayton

Call Morgan Territory – Built by student of Frank Lloyd Wright, this 3BD/3BA home sits on 5 acre creekside lot in the rolling foothills of Mt. Diablo. Fresh carpet & paint. Great decks & walls of windows surround you in nature. Fantastic potential in a very private home.

PENDING

Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else* *Statistics based on Clayton closed by sales volume (1/2012 – 12/2012). Data by Trendgraphix

Concord

$869,000

Crystyl Ranch – Luxurious 4BD + bonus room/office, 3.5BA with sweeping views and gorgeous architecture. Master suite on main floor. Bright chef ’s kitchen has granite, island/breakfast bar. Fully landscaped yard with no backing neighbors.

Start the new year off right.

Come join the #1 Office in Clayton & Concord.* Call for a Confidential Interview!

Angelique Booth (925) 673-2183 Cal DRE#01715289

www.Clayton.Windermere.com "Like" us on

Clayton Resident & Broker Owner

Cal BRE#01122025

- Windermere Clayton!

Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

LEIGH KLOCK

STEPHANIE LOPEZ

Realtor®, DRE#01874255

Realtor®, DRE#01370548

925.212.5593

ing d n e P tiple Mul ers Off

December 6, 2013

Deadline for entry is Dec. 10

925.932.7329 4209 Reimche Dr. Sharp 3-bedroom home with newer kitchen and bath. Lots of updates throughout. Clean as a whistle with great curb appeal.

Great investment with easy commute access.

Judging Party will be held on Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m. in the

Offered at $225,000

2012 Lost Lake Place

SOLD

SOL

Clayton Library Community Room. Be there for live music and caroling led by Clayton’s Van Liew family with games and crafts for the kids and photos with Santa. Recipes and photos of winners will appear in the Dec. 20 issue.

D

This fantastic property features two master suites, a large great room with vaulted ceilings, fireplace and hearth and plenty of light bright charm! The newly installed carpet and new paint throughout enhances the updated kitchen and dining areas. The landscaped yards feature wonderful low maintenance flower beds and drought tolerant plantings! Relax and entertain on your large veranda!

Don’t’ miss this sharp property. Offered at $350,000

Clayton Pioneer’s

2013 CHRISTMAS COOKIE CONTEST ENTRY FORM

www.1729IndianWellsWay.com Black Diamond Duet Stunning three bedroom 2 1/2 baths 1904 square foot home.

Vaulted ceilings, updated kitchen and baths, fabulous yard with lush landscaping and decking.

Offered at $535,000 Join The Dynamic Realtor Group, The Moresi Family Restaurants, and the P2C Foundation for the 5th Annual

“Holiday Horse and Carriage Ride”

Please fill out a separate form for each entry.

Name (Please print) Address (Must reside in the Pioneer Distribution area 94517, 94518 or 94521) Phone Number Email address Name of Recipe

Saturday, Dec. 7, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. (just before the tree lighting) in Magical Downtown Clayton

I N S P I R E D R E A L E S TAT E

Master Baker (16+) Junior Baker (Ages 6-15) Your age____

Contestant agrees to being photographed at the competition. Recipes used from published books must identify source.

Signature

Parent's Signature (for Junior Bakers)

www.myDynamicRealtors.com

Mail your entry to: the Clayton Pioneer, PO Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517; or drop off at our office at 6200 H Center Street, Clayton. If the office is closed, slip it through the mail slot.

Deadline to enter is 5 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 10

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Mayor, from page 1 P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Pam Wiesendanger, Peggy Spear

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

PIONEER INFO

can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you.

Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases.

CONTACT US

Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580

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

Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send Church News to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com

Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com

Send Classified Ads to classified@claytonpioneer.com

CIRCULATION

CLASSIFIEDS

Merry Pelletier, is retiring the end of the month. Merry’s replacement has been selected and upon completion of final background checks, he should be on the job by Monday, December 9.

Likewise, we are losing our wonderful City Clerk and Human Resources Manager Laci Jackson Kolc, who is moving on to bigger responsibilities in American Canyon. As we search for a permanent City Clerk, Janet Brown, a former 11-year administrative assistant for the City of Oakley, will aid the transition. We welcome both aboard.

A couple of holiday reminders: The CBCA-sponsored downtown tree-lighting will be Saturday, Sept. 7 at 6 p.m.

Festivities and carriage rides begin at 4:30 p.m., with elementary school caroling and Santa’s arrival at 6 p.m. and the treelighting at 6:30 p.m. The CBCA will offer their traditional donut holes and cider after the tree lighting at the Clayton Commu-

Total circulation of the Clayton Pioneer is 15,500. Papers are delivered to households in ZIP codes 94517, 94518 and 94521.

In Clayton, all papers are delivered Every Door Direct by the US Post Office. We cannot start or stop delivery to individual addresses.

All Concord delivery is by carrier and delivered twice a month on a Friday morning. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 6720500 or email circulation@claytonpioneer.com.

If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please call us or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com.

If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon.

Classified rates per insertion: $48 for first 30 words, 40 cents each additional word Non-profit: $24 for first 30 words, 20 cents each additional word To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 6720500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.Fri. All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. You

CALL PETE . HE

Sunday, Dec.15 is the annual Clayton Historical Society Holiday Homes Tour from noon to 7 p.m. Tickets for this event can be purchased on the CHS website at claytonhistory.org or at the museum on Main Street on the day of the event. This tour is a major fundraiser for our Clayton Museum. I hope to see you there.

Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas!

As always, you can reach me at JPierce@ci.clayton.ca.us. Let me know what you think.

Installations – Repairs Toilets Faucets Water heaters Garbage disposals Clogged drains

Belfast Plumbing (925) 457-5423

www.belfastplumbing.com License. 906211

SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $50/year and are for full year only.

Advertise in the Pioneer 672-0500

Pete Laurence, Broker, Realtor, GRI

Cell: (925) 890-6004 Serving Clayton and ALL of C.C. County.

Walnut Creek office

$439,900!

To sell your home, Call PETE LAURENCE at (925) 890-6004

KNOWLEDGE

SERVICE

DRE#00344166

INTEGRITY

RESULTS

$1 , 7 8 7 *

limited ti me offer

Discover the Difference Affordable Retirement Living Your Way

2 outstanding meals served daily Weekly housekeeping & fresh linens Full social and activity program Chauffeured transportation daily On-call 24-hour professional staffing

Spacious 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments with Rent and Services INCLUDED Call today to schedule your

(925) 524-5100

holiday lunch & personal tour.

www.diamondterrace.net

# TTY 711

*Rents are usually $2,106. Income limits apply.

Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Financial, Insurance and Legal Services DuRee, Daniel – The Law Office of . . . . . . . . . . .210-1400 Littorno, Richard – The Law Office of . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Sorensen, David – Wells Fargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . .296-3086 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-698-0000 Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242

Home and Garden Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Just Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-4747 The Floor Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .969-9890 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334

Optometry Foresight Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4100

FOR LEASE Office and retail space for lease in Historic Clayton City Center: Village Oaks Center, 6200 Center St., Clayton. Call Nick Adamson at (408) 371-8770, ext. 21.

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

ComputersUSA! 672-9989.

Come join Mazzei Realty!

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

Real Estate Agents Be Successful!

Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today 672-8787.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Help Fight Hunger Visit thelemonlady.blogspot.com.

6401 Center Street, Clayton CA 94517

Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 Iron Horse Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .566-8666 Steffan Smith Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0497 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679

NOTARY SERVICES Mobile Notary: Call Raj (925) 7050951 or email raj.seth49@gmail.com.

Same day pick up and delivery of documents: Call Neeta (925) 3543526 or kseth52@gmail.com. onestopnotarypublic.com.

Sales Associate Rodie's Feed & Pet Supply is looking for an animal-loving, team player with excellent customer service skills.

Shifts 2-3 days per week; 8.5 hours.

Contact Nicole for more information: nicole@rodiesfeed.com or 672-4600.

Rates a s low a s

Business Services Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . . .672-8717

Medical Clayton Valley Medical Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6744

GARDEN

This exceptionally nice rancher has the gourmet granite kitchen that people dream about, dual pane windows, base & crown molding, freshly painted and is a 4 bedroom, 2 bath with a recent roof and a step-down Family room! Located on a quiet street in the new Charter High School attendance area, it also has concrete RV parking and a large backyard!

Holiday Guide Angel Q Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .890-1311 Bella Mia Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-7792 Clayton Business and Community Association . .672-2272 Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Concord United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . . . .685-5260 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Lehmer’s Concord Buick GMC . . . . . . . . . . . . . .344-4205 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Super Holiday Boutique . . . www.concordholidayexpo.com The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 TLC Pet Grooming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2547 Walker, Becky – Nails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .640-8995

Classified

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

Gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.

CAN SELL YOURS, TOO.

Directory of Advertisers

Groceries Doorstep Farmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .349-4568

Credit Cards accepted: Visa, MasterCard, Discover

Buyers and Sellers – the time is right

SOLD! C P .H

nity Church offices.

The deadline to enter this year’s Clayton Pioneer Holiday Cookie Contest is Tuesday, Dec 10 and the party and contest takes place Thursday, Dec 12 at 6:30 p.m. at Hoyer Hall in the Clayton Library. If you haven’t entered before, maybe this is your year. There are great activities for the kids and Santa will visit to help award the prizes, too.

Page 5

Pet Services Cat Hospital of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2287 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276-5744 Pittsburg Pet Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodie's Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Geddes-Sinclaire, Christine – Alain Pinel . . . . . .286-7593 Howard, Don – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . .408-3184 Howard, Emily – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .408-1871 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Landgraf, Linda – Prudential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .876-0311 Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . . .567-6170 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness All Out Sports League, The Blaze Volleyball . . . . . . . . . . . . www.blazetravelball.com East Bay Regional Park District . . . . . . . . . .888-327-2757 Levity Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2995 Retail HobbyTown USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-3802 Senior Services Chateau on Broadway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-1700 Courtyards at Pine Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-3900 Diamond Terrace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-5100 Montecito – Oakmont Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . .852-6702 Services, Other 1-800-Junkster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-586-5783 ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . . .473-0180 Travel Celebrity Cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-456-7887 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840

Clayton Historical Society Museum Call the museum at 672-0240.

Clayton Community Library Contact Arlene at 673-9777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com.

Meals on Wheels Contact Sharon Fitzgerald at 9328607 or sfitzgerald@mowsos.org

Kindness Do the Right Thing

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

Opinion State funding available for Common Core implementation Our students and teachers will soon be reaping the benefits of a new infusion of state funding dedicated to preparing students for rewarding careers in the 21st century economy.

Last January, the original 2013-14 State budget proposal submitted by the Governor to the legislature, contained no money for schools to implement Common Core standards. As Chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance, I worked to change this and made securing state funds to provide teacher professional development and technology improvements my number one priority.

In the Assembly’s budget I added $1.5 billion for schools to use toward Common Core implementation. This

led to months of negotiations with the Governor and intense lobbying from the education community to secure these funds. It was gratifying to see the Governor respond by including $1 billion in the May budget for this purpose, and $1.25 billion in the final budget. The funding went out to districts in two installments this fall.

As a result, schools in Contra Costa County will receive over $34.4 million towards Common Core development, calculated at $200 per student, according to the state Department of Education.

Here are some specific funding allocations for our local schools: • Alcalanes Union High . . . .$1,074,949 • Clayton Valley Charter . . . . .$373,389 • John Swett Unified . . . . . . . .$321,540

• • • • • • •

Lafayette Elementary . . . . . .$690,307 Martinez Unified . . . . . . . . . .$821,334 Mount Diablo Unified . . . .$6,392,241 Eagle Peak Montessori . . . . . .$38,585 Pittsburg Unified . . . . . . . .$2,122,166 San Ramon Valley Unified . .$6,181,008 Walnut Creek Elementary . .$712,011

This one-time allotment of targeted dollars will help our schools transition to Common Core academic standards and the new computer based assessments that will be field tested next spring. Best of all, these funds are flexible, allowing local districts to plan and focus on their priorities.

To receive the funds school district must develop and adopt a spending plan at a public school board meeting and then vote to approve the plan at a subse-

longer live at the home. Some folks have had alarms installed and not registered them with the police department. Some residents have purchased a home with an existing alarm but have not updated the information for emergency contacts. Finally, some residents have changed the emergency contact person, but have not let the police department know.

In the event of an emergency, not having the alarm information and emergency contact information readily at hand can cost emergency responders valuable time.

As we update the information, we ask you to contact our VIP’s Volunteer, Kitty Parker, by e-mail and provide the necessary information. Her e-mail is Kathleen.parker@cityofconcord.org.

GARY CARR Special to the Pioneer

CHRIS THORSEN

BEHIND

THE

BADGE

Please help us by providing: Your Name Address Phone Number Cell Number Emergency Contacts (people who can turn your alarm off and have access to your home) • The alarm company name • Alarm company phone number • Any additional information you think we need Thank you for helping us keep Clayton a safe place to live, work and play.

Chris Thorsen is Clayton’s chief of police. For questions and comments, call him at (925) 673-7350.

• • • • •

2014 Alaska cruise adventure!

Book during our Exclusive Cruise Sale (Dec. 6 - 20)

embark

for wildlife, wonder and beauty Spacious, Elegant Ships Gracious, Award-winning Service Worldwide Itineraries Expansive Activities and Entertainment Programs Sophisticated Five-Star Dining

and receive an onboard coupon booklet along with reduced deposit.

Call now for best pricing and extra benefits on select cruise and cruise/tour sailings.

Travel To Go, Inc. • (925) 672-9840 travel-2-go.com CST #2033054-40

Like many, I walk our lovely trails and sidewalks everyday and I always pick up my dog’s waste and drop it off at the nearest trash can, or take it home to dispose of there.

(Lately), I see more people who seem to make an attempt to pick up after their dogs, only to just drop their plastic doggie bags alongside the walkways and paths, or even toss the baggies up under the shrubs, making a very unsightly mess of our beautiful walkways and trail systems.

So please, if you are not going to carry your doggie poop bags, I would much prefer that you didn’t pick up after your dog at all. If the feces were left alone, the color will blend in with the dirt and eventually break down. But those plastic bags just stick out as an eyesore for months or years to come.

Linda Pinder

CBCA events improve the community

Plan now for your

Book by December 20, 2013

Pick up the poop bags, please

Club News

No cause for alarm, but update your information In the City of Clayton we have an ordinance requiring home safety alarms to be registered with the police department. We do this to be sure we have emergency contacts in the event of an emergency at your home. It gives us a place to start in the event there is a problem at your home and we are unable to contact you.

Additionally, the ordinance has restrictions on the number of false alarms we will respond to.

There is a one-time fee for registering your alarm of $28 for a residence and $56 for a commercial alarm. There is no fee to update your existing information.

The records for these permits are being updated by a volunteer here at the Clayton Police Department. We’ve found that many of our residents who had alarms no

quent board meeting. For accountability purposes, a report of expenditures must be submitted to the State Department of Education on or before July 1, 2015.

After severe budget cuts to education, totaling 20 percent over the last 5 years, it will still take us years to bring our schools back to previous funding levels. As a first step, this financial commitment to successfully implement Common Core, along with the Local Control Funding Formula, will help our schools achieve improving student outcomes. You have my commitment to continue to advocate and work hard in Sacramento to bring additional funds home for our Contra Costa students.

Susan A. Bonilla Assemblywoman, 14th District

Letter to the Editor

Clayton Station Shopping Center, 5439 Clayton Rd. Ste. F, Clayton, CA

* Subject to availability. Offers are capacity controlled and may be modified or withdrawn without prior notice. Restrictions may apply. Please refer to the appropriate Holland America brochure for full terms and conditions. Ships Registry, The Netherlands. CST#: 2020955-50.

It comes and it goes. Oktoberfest co-chair Mary Ann Lawrence reported this year’s ‘fest was the most successful ever. After the final bills are paid, Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA) coffers will be replenished and the CBCA will be able to continue helping fund projects in the Clayton community. The November 21 CBCA meeting was held at the Oakhurst Country Club.

Among the many places receiving funds is Mt. Diablo Elementary School for 5th Grade Outdoor Science Camp.

Funds also went to the Gold Star Moms for their Wreathes Across America project.

Requests scheduled for a January vote include those from the Clayton CERT Program, the St. Bonaventure Food Pantry and the Clayton Chapter of the AAUW. CERT will use the grant for purchase, placement, training and maintenance of two Automatic External Defibrillators for Clayton public access. The St. Bonaven-

ture Food Pantry provides meals for needy families in the Clayton Valley area throughout the year. The Clayton Chapter of the AAUW requested funding assistance to help sponsor three young women to attend their annual Tech Trek Camp.

CBCA is confident that the Angels will come and the Grinches will go, this holiday season in Clayton and throughout the coming year.

Local volunteers are welcome to join CBCA or just volunteer for an event by calling 925-672-2272 or clicking on www.claytoncbca.org.

Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotary

ROTARIAN JEFF RONDINI (right) gives a demonstration to each class on how to use a dictionary, followed by a short test, which the students all pass with flying colors. Rotarians Bill Selb, Clayton Worsdell, Bob Huck and MaryAnn Moser joined Jeff for the event.

The Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotary Club distributed 113 children’s dictionaries to third graders at local elementary schools.

The Rotary has distributed dictionaries for several years as part of their literacy programs.

Funds are raised, in part, from the annual Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast sponsored by the Club each year at Endeavor Hall.

The Rotary Club meets for breakfast each Thursday, 7 a.m., Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. Call Membership Chairman Jim Swanson at 673-9040 for information.

Get yourself a holiday gift by slimming down expectations The holidays are upon us and with that come all the excitement and wonder of the season…and all the stress and strain of the season. People often feel overwhelmed by the holidays because of all the pressure they put on themselves to either make up for past awful holidays, to live up to some societal or familial expectations to have the holidays “just right,” or to make some “perfect” memories that their children will remember forever.

Inevitably, the holidays fall short of those high expectations and we wind up feeling worse than ever. This year, make an early New Year’s resolution to not let the stress of the holiday season make you feel like the Grinch. How can you do this?

First of all, you cannot let the ghosts of Christmas past influence your present. You’ll never be able to rewrite history and erase the pain of hurtful memories, no matter how much garland you put up or how much you max out your credit cards. Find a way to recognize that your past has helped make you who you are today. One way to change your thinking about the past is to reframe it as a helpful reminder of what you

can be grateful for in the present, as in “I’m so glad that I’m past that now!”

Now, about those pesky expectations of how our holidays “should” be. After Halloween, we are constantly bombarded with blaring media messages that we too can have the holidays of our dreams, if we buy X, Y, and Z. Not to mention, there are all of our relatives and extended family that expect us to do certain holiday traditions just because we’ve done them every year, even if they put us out and are a huge stressor for us.

This year, I say let go of others’ expectations of you if they are overwhelming and unreasonable. You don’t want to slave over another turkey dinner for Christmas? How about serving lasagna as the main course instead? Don’t want to exchange presents with every one of your 30 relatives and go broke? How about everyone picks a name out of a hat to give a gift, or the adults only get gifts for the children? Remember that you have some say in how you want the holidays to be, which should be enjoyable for you as well.

Lastly, I hear a lot from parents about how their children need to have Norman Rockwellesque holidays and handmade or

STEPHANIE HO MIND MATTERS homemade everything. While I am all for creating lovely traditions and making the season a special time to remember, I also know what your children will want the most during the holidays, and that is your presence.

They will not want you slaving away in the kitchen or over a glue gun in order to give them the perfect Christmas.

For example, if you find yourself the only one in the kitchen making gingerbread men from scratch while the rest of your family watches TV, then you may want to rethink why the heck you’re making those cookies in the first place.

Stephanie T. Ho is a licensed psychologist. She has a private practice office in Walnut Creek and works at UC Berkeley. She can be reached at stephanie.ho.phd@gmail.com.

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Good news for troubled sellers Q. I am in a contract to sell my house as a short sale.

I can see now that it won’t close before the end of the year. I know the “Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act” is going to expire at the end of this year. I am thinking of canceling the sale and letting the bank foreclose. If I did that would I be taxed on the forgiven amount anyway?

A. With the information you have given me you probably have nothing to worry about with the short sale. Very recently some new information has come to light. The Internal Revenue Service clarified in a letter that California’s troubled homeowners who sell their homes in a short sale are not subject to federal income tax liability on “phantom income” they never received. California is what is called a non-recourse state so we do not create so-called “cancellation of debt” income to the underwater seller for federal income tax purposes. This

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS includes first and junior trust deeds. Many other states are very different in the way they deal with mortgage shortfalls and foreclosures.

The California Franchise Tax Board has been awaiting this IRS letter to obtain similar guidance regarding state income tax for mortgage debt relief as well.

This clarification is a big deal for thousands of homeowners, and I am happy to report it.

Q. Can you tell us about some interesting real estate transactions occurring recently?

A. I like to look at what the rich & famous are up to with their real estate deals.

1. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg paid more than $30 million, for the four residential properties located next door and behind his own home. He did this when he found out a developer was going to buy the land and build a huge estate and market it as being next door to Mark Zuckerberg. He is keeping the homes and renting them out to the previous owners.

2. Cuba Gooding Jr., Oscar winner for “Jerry Maguire,” is selling his home in Pacific Palisades for $11,995 million. It is a contemporary English-style house on a gated acre. What is fun about the property is that it is part playground and part parkland. There is a sunken trampoline in the lawn, a swimming pool and a sports court set

Page 7

UTOPIC GARDENS

up to double as a lighted roller hockey rink or a basketball court.

3. Multiplatinum recording star Josh Grobin is listing his villa in Southern California on Point Dume for $5.475 million.

He previously listed it in 2010 for 6.1 million and later offered it as a $13,500-a-month luxury rental in 2012. Josh paid $4.125 million for the property in 2005.

It was built in 1976 and is a multi-level home. It is 3,294 square feet with a Tuscan style interior. Outside it has a saltwater pool with a waterfall and poolside kitchen. It has one bedroom guest cottage, a tennis court and, of course, a recording studio. The estate sits on 1.8 acres.

MAXIMIZE!

925-524-0055 CREATIVE DESIGN & INSTALLATION

www.UtopicGardens.com LIC. No. 898331

WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS Super Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines last month leaving a path of death and destruction.

We are all familiar with hurricanes, so a natural question is: What is the difference between a

develop in the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific Oceans are called hurricanes. In the Western Pacific these cyclones are called typhoons. In other areas of the world, such as the Indian Ocean and southern hemisphere, cyclones that reach the 74 m.p.h. wind threshold are called severe tropical cyclones.

The categorization of tropical cyclones with winds below 74 m.p.h. is the same throughout the

Clayton Resident

Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-878 7or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

Geography determines the difference between a typhoon and a hurricane typhoon and a hurricane?

Typhoons and hurricanes are both tropical cyclones with sustained winds that reach or exceed 74 miles per hour Tropical cyclones are known as “warm core” storms since they get their energy from heat that is transferred into the atmosphere from warm ocean water.

The only difference between typhoons and hurricanes is their location. Strong cyclones that

Fully Insured

world. The weakest cyclones, called tropical depressions, are organized warm core storms with maximum sustained winds between 23 and 38 mph.

Cyclones with sustained winds between 39 and 74 m.p.h. are known as tropical storms. At this stage of development the cyclones are given a name. An estimated 55 percent of the

See Weather page 9

Happy Holidays Orders for Hunter Douglas ‘tis the season $100 rebate available until Dec. 17 Full-Service Design Firm mail for Call or e intment an appo ay tod

925-672-7920

• Remodels, Kitchens & Baths • Design consultations • 21 years of design experience • Custom draperies – model homes, commercial • Major furniture brands & residential at a discount • Licensed general contractor • Clayton resident for 15 years

6160 Center St, Clayton CA

kirsten@interiorspanache.com carol@interiorspanache.com

www.interiorspanache.com

Follow us on Facebook

Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

Concord to vote on Complete Streets Amendment

RON LEONE

CONCORD CITY BEAT

In December, the Concord City Council will vote on the “Complete Streets” General Amendment Plan.

The goal of the plan is to help improve the city’s streets by designing a transportation system which meets the needs of all users, including pedestrians, public transit riders, bicyclists, as well as motorists.

Not only in California, but all across America, there is a movement to build “Complete Streets” that allow people to get around safely, even when they

aren’t inside a car. In 2011, the California “Complete Streets Act” passed, and requires that our cities and counties make substantive revisions to the circulation element of our general plans to include modifications to plan for “Complete Streets” policies.

This requires an update to Concord’s 2030 General Plan’s Transportation and Circulation Element. The proposed update includes a revision of goals, principles and policies to more explicitly address the concept of

“Complete Streets” as required by the state Legislature.

Conventional street design can sometimes promotes traffic congestion, pollution and collisions, and discourages physical activity. “Complete Streets,” on the other hand, are designed and built so that people of all ages and abilities can travel easily and safely, while also getting the regular physical activity that is so critical to preventing obesity.

Successful long-term implementation of this policy is

intended to result in: • More options for people to go from one place to another.

• Less traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

• More walkable communities (with healthier, more active people).

• Fewer barriers for older adults, children and people with disabilities.

“Complete Streets” are streets for everyone, including our most vulnerable roadway users. They are designed, main-

tained and operated to enable safe access for all users. Economically, “Complete Streets” may help revitalize our community, and they might give families the option to lower transportation costs by using transit, walking or bicycling rather than driving to reach their destinations.

Ron Leone, a Concord city councilman and former mayor, welcomes comments and questions. Call him at 925-680-1776 or send email to ronaldleone@comcast.net.

Book Review

Plucky heroine enlivens ‘America Pacifica’ Sometimes a chance encounter at the local bookstore opens savory and unexpected windows into worlds undreamed of. Lucky for us, Anna North’s debut novel, “America Pacifica” (Reagan Arthur Books; May, 2011) is just that tasty chance. A fresh new voice in the wilderness of titles, North earned her chops at the Iowa Writers Workshop, and her writing shows it. Sharp, clear, sometimes stunning narrative seduces the reader, even while it sends a shiver up the spine.

We know we are in for an adventure when the book’s opening lines are delivered with this piercingly classic hook: “The trouble started when the woman with the shaking hands came to the apartment. Her face was small but fleshy, with a little puffy mouth. . . she said she was a friend of Darcy’s mother, but Darcy’s mother didn’t have friends.”

Just a few decades in the future, 18 year-old Darcy, who lives on a sweltering, dystopian island presumably far enough in the Pacific Ocean to escape an ice age that has consumed North America. America Pacifica is a microcosm of the U.S., and run by a corrupt refugee

CYNTHIA GREGORY

FOR

THE

BOOKS

who bestows favors on his crooked followers and virtually enslaves the rest of the population. Darcy is a disillusioned girl with a dead-end job and an apartment shared with her doting but mysterious mother.

Darcy’s crap job at an assisted living facility reserved exclusively for America Pacifica’s wealthy elite, earns her enough to keep from starving. Barely. Humiliated daily by the subservient, subsistence work, Darcy’s one bright spot is her relationship with her mother. Between the two of them, they have enough, they are enough.

But one day, a strange woman appears in their tenement apartment and whispers secrets in Sarah’s ears, dark tales

that Sarah explains away when Darcy asks what the woman said, what she wanted. Soon after, Darcy returns home from work, warms up a miserable piece of steak that she stole from the retirement home, excited to provide the treat for her mother.

The chunk of beef is a welcome respite from the powdered jellyfish and “cheesefood” they regularly consume to stave off relentless hunger in their slum neighborhood of Little Los Angeles, located not far from Chicagoland and across the island Manhattanville. But Sarah never returns, and thus begins Darcy’s odyssey to find her mother and discover the dark truth behind her vanishing.

Darcy soon encounters a one-armed boy named Ansel Martinez, an idealistic and charismatic street dweller who has a plan to overthrow Tyson,

the island’s self-appointed ruler.

Darcy doesn’t take entirely believe Ansel’s big plans, but he is the only one who takes her seriously and offers to help her find her mother . . . and doesn’t try to take advantage of her in exchange.

Darcy is plucky and brave. Not because she has a wild streak, but because she has nothing left to lose.

Even when she gets close to the truth – which is far more terrible than she could have imagined, a little part of her heart remains pure, and we can’t help but love her for it.

America Pacifica is part cautionary tale, part allegory, and a wholly engaging read.

Cynthia Gregory writes book reviews, award-winning short stories and a blog. Visit her blog at PersephonesStepSisters.Wordpress.com or send email to her at cgregory111@gmail.com

Second Chance, from page 1 Now

o

als oke ays a r a K ond on M to 11 pm

But Peck’s loss only fueled Carroll’s passion into helping the men of San Quentin.

8 pm

6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440 Entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Dec. 6, 7 . . . . . . . . . . . Blues Healers Dec. 13, 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Relyks Karaoke Mon. & Wed. nights

Open Mic Thur. nights, 8-11 pm

www.claytonclubsaloon.com

2 for the price of 1

Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 12/19/13

UNLIKELY INTEREST “Believe me, this is the last thing I ever thought I would do with my life,” says the petite blonde with a lingering Australian accent. “I never had anything to do with jails or anything when I was growing up.”

She came from a “good family” in Sydney, where her father was construction director of the Sydney Opera House. Carroll herself has a background in business administration, and has a business as an administrative assistant to clients in the Bay Area.

But she says that from the minute she walked into the doors at San Quentin, she felt a sense of hope. “I knew that there were a lot of good men here, even if they themselves didn’t know it yet.”

Working with other prison programs, CRI helps men prepare themselves for the rigors of life on the outside. The minimum two-year program focuses on not only practical matters like finding work, but self-work as well.

“Probably 90 percent of the work we do before the men get out is on themselves,” she says.

“The main thing we teach is personal accountability.”

That’s something that Alton McSween learned the hard way, when he was turned down for admittance into CRI because he was not adhering to the rules of San Quentin.

His transgression wasn’t that egregious — he was run-

ning a football pool. But Carroll stood firm, a trait she is known for along with her generous spirit.

“I had been reprimanded once for running the pool by the institution, but that didn’t stop me,” McSween says. “But it was Collette who made me realize I needed to stop if I wanted to better myself. And that’s what she’s all about, helping people find their better selves.”

SMOOTH TRANSITION OUT McSween was serving a three-strikes sentence of 25years-to-life when he met Carroll and Peck. The crime that brought down that sentence was petty theft, following two residential burglary convictions years before. Under Proposition 36, McSween was able to appeal his sentencing. A judge resentenced him to seven years, and as McSween had already served 12 years, he was released in April of this year without parole.

Carroll was there to pick him up from BART. The first people he met were at Options Recovery, people he knew from inside San Quentin from the ARC (Addiction Recovery Counseling) program there “I was truly blessed,” he says. These days, McSween is studying to become a certified substance abuse counselor, and has been offered the house manager position at Roland’s Place.”I was truly blessed,” he says. These days, McSween is studying to become a substance abuse counselor, and has been offered the house manager position at Roland’s Place.

Play Santa for local senior citizens in need Share the holiday spirit and take part in the Be A Santa To A Senior (BASTAS) service program. This program positively impacts the community by providing holiday cheer and gifts to senior citizens who are least likely to receive a present this holiday season, and who are often lonely and financially needy. The program is sponsored by the local Home Instead Senior Care office, the Concord Commission on Aging and the Concord Senior Center.

To participate in the program, look for the BASTAS displays and trees after Nov. 25 at the locations listed below. Select a gift tag from the tree. The tag includes the first name of a local senior and his or her gift wish.

Return the unwrapped gift along with the gift tag by Dec. 20. Participating Concord locations include: City of Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Drive; Concord Police Department, 1350 Galindo Street (3rd floor); Min’s Kitchen, 3505 Clayton

Rd.; ?Bank of America, 2020 Willow Pass Rd.; and The Old Spaghetti Factory, 1955 Mt. Diablo.

Residents can also drop off a monetary donation at the Concord Senior Center that will be used to purchase gifts, or much needed items such as twin-size blankets, gift cards, socks, gloves, non-perishable food baskets, scarves, flashlights and batteries.

Businesses are invited to sponsor the gift wrapping party on Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon by providing healthy refreshments for volunteers at the Senior Center who are preparing the gifts for delivery.

“I wouldn’t be doing this without CRI,” he says. “No one has more integrity than Collette.”

Carroll says that the three main things that parolees need when they are released is a place to stay, employment and a community. To that end, her “guys,” as she calls them, are already on their way. She also gives them a bag of other essentials, including new bedding and a cell phone.

McSween, an ex-NFL football player, is known as “Coach,” and he’s been instrumental in helping Carroll get the 2nd Chance Boutique up and running.

He has been aided by James McCartney, another recent parolee with woodworking skills and a “great work ethic,” says Carroll. Both men will move into Roland’s Place when it opens, as likely will the seven “graduates” of CRI’s first class, after the ceremony in December.

“I could not have done this without Collette,” says McCartney, called “Mac” by this friends and now-ad-hoc family. “I had never even seen a cell phone, and before I went to prison I barely knew anyone who owned a microwave. Things have certainly changed.”

es, jewelry, scarves and even artwork are also available for purchase, all of it high-end at a bargain price.

“The merchandise is either donated, or bought with money we have received in donations,” says LaVenture, who does much of the “shopping” for the inventory online.

The boutique started as a partnership between CRI and the Concord-Clayton Sunrise Rotary, which is helping to gather donations, provide exposure and assist in finding jobs for men from the CRI program. Carroll hopes it is the first of several local business ventures, and she plans to open a custom cabinet shop and a landscaping business, all staffed

by CRI graduates.

“Mureleen Benton, who was then-president of the Rotary, was looking for a project to support” Carroll says. “Then one day Mureleen came to me and said, ‘Why not yours?’”

There is an easy camaraderie between Carroll, LaVenture, “Coach” and “Mac” as they work around the boutique, and it is apparent they are more than just colleagues — they are a family.

“That’s really what we are about, creating a sense of community, of family, and helping these men find their passion,” Carroll says. “After all, everyone deserves a second chance.”

THE BOUTIQUE His work is evident around the boutique, in the gleaming hardwood floors he helped install, shelving and even an intricately carved chess set for sale — something he made while still in prison. The merchandise reflects the care Carroll gives her “guys,” as it is all hand-picked. Products range from a $5 clothes rack to $400 shoes and clothing items. Purs-

To contribute, take part by providing a monetary donation or learn more about the program, contact Senior Center Director Avis Connolly at 925-671-3419 or by email avisconnolly@cityofconcord.org or drop by the Concord Senior Center located at 2727 Parkside Circle in John Baldwin Park.

The 2nd Chance Boutique, 4305 Clayton Road, Suite E in Concord (near Safeway), is open MF, 10-7; Sat. 10-6; Sun 12-6. To donate men’s and women’s clothing or accessories, call the store at 925-6915024. For more information about CRI, go to californiareentryinstitute.org.

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Volunteering needs to be an all-year activity for Americans

Pine Hollow aces food drive This year, Pine Hollow Middle School has put on a canned food drive to support the Mt. Diablo Unified School District Food Pantry and the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano Counties.

Every year, multiple schools and organizations hold canned food drives, but what made Pine Hollow’s recent one special is that we donated more food than we did last year, almost 6,000 ounces of food in a week and a half. That’s an astonishing amount for a school of our size.

I talked with two leadership students who helped with the drive. They said that they felt like an “amazing person” to know that they could help get a family another meal.

Some of the teachers felt that the students really participated in donating food, especially for Thanksgiving. As a leadership student myself, I have worked the food drive for two years.

Each year I feel something different. This year I felt like a better person knowing that I was

Annual Food Drive at Diablo View Middle The leadership class taught

by Mrs. Ruff at Diablo View Middle School collected 4,030 food items in only 9 days.

The drive benefits the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. The leadership students chose a food drive as a way of incorporating their character trait “Kindness” during the month of

November. They also felt that by building character within their school, it would help spread the love to the community.

The top donating classes celebrated their success with Jamba Juice and the entire school got an extended lunch period with music and a raffle for prizes for each grade level.

CARLIE BEESON

PINE HOLLOW REPORTER able to give back to the community. It always makes me feel good to know that I can help give back to the less fortunate so that they can enjoy the holidays.

We are all very thankful for the things that we have, and the people that we have around who care about us. Giving something back to our community makes it better for everyone.

Carlie Beeson is an 8th grader at Pine Hollow Middle School. She enjoys reading, playing soccer, and singing. Questions or comments?

Email her at carlie@claytonpioneer.com

Morgan Fire, from page 1 is whether it was reasonably foreseeable that discharging a firearm in this area under these circumstances would cause a fire.

Given the sheer number of times firearms have been discharged in this area and in similar areas throughout the state

without causing a fire, it is the determination of this office that no criminal liability can be attached to the cause and origin of this fire. Therefore, under the law, this office will not be filing any criminal charges regarding the fire.”

Weather, from page 7 named tropical storms will intensify enough to be called typhoons or hurricanes.

Typhoons and hurricanes are subdivided into strength categories based on maximum sustained wind speeds. There are two typhoon categories and five hurricane categories.

Typhoons have maximum wind speeds between 74 and 150 m.p.h. Super typhoon is the name given to the storms featuring sustained winds above 150 m.p.h.

Hurricanes are divided into five severity categories. Category 1 hurricanes have sustained winds between 74 and 94 m.p.h. Category 5 hurricanes, the strongest, contain sustained winds above 157 m.p.h.

Tropical storm naming conventions vary by region. In 1953 the U.S. Weather Service began naming hurricanes using an annual rotating list of women’s names in alphabetical order. This practice lasted until 1979 when men’s names were added to the list.

Since 2000 typhoon names have been assigned from a list

submitted by nations affected by these storms. A typhoon may be named after a person, animal, flower or mythical creature.

Haiyan, a name submitted by China, refers to a sea bird known as the petrel.

Interestingly, the Philippines Meteorological Agency has its own typhoon naming convention for strong cyclones that affect that country. Although Typhoon Haiyan is the name of November’s storm known throughout the world, it is referred to as Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines.

Whether they are called typhoons or hurricanes, strong tropical cyclones are devastating storm events. Typhoon Haiyan, with sustained winds measured at 195 m.p.h., and peak gusts as strong as 235 m.p.h., will rank as one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever recorded.

Woody Whitlatch is a retired PG&E meteorologist. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

The holiday season has arrived; stores are stocking up on decorations, radio stations are preparing to play classic holiday tunes, and students across the country are anxiously awaiting the upcoming school break.

Along with the holiday spirit comes a thirst for volunteering.

Nevertheless, this attitude does not carry over to the rest of the year despite the ever growing need for willing volunteers.

Generally, volunteering is pushed aside in everyday life. In fact, only about 26.5 percent of all Americans volunteered at some point from September 2011 through September 2012, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Although this number has steadily increased over the past 30 years, it has not been able to contain and reduce the national poverty rate.

Rather, the poverty rate has continued to increase as well. In

Success in life comes from having a positive attitude

DAVID LINZEY VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE

MATT HYLAND, DAVID MCNULTY, SYLVIE RUSH, Julia Urteaga, Bryson Spitzer and Sydney Skow show they exceeded their 4,000-item goal by collecting 4,030 donated food items.

Page 9

As a school leader I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of teachers and staff members over the past several decades, along with thousands of parents and students. I worked closely with people who have suffered immeasurable loss and heartache and yet have approached suffering with such incredible perspective, positive attitude and gratitude while enduring their pain. And I have worked closely with folks who have not suffered much at all, yet who have allowed small setbacks to destroy their outlook on life and their attitude.

It is clear to me that one’s own internal thermometer, one’s own attitude and mental framework, determines how they will cope with life’s events, both large and small. You know those people who are optimistic and enthusiastic no matter what. Each of us has friends who are typically upbeat most of the time, ready to take on the day, handling the negatives and curve balls thrown their way and have the keen ability to see the good in any situation. And there are the pessimists who are fearful, downtrodden most of the time and see what is wrong with any good thing that comes their way. These folks are “prophets of doom” about most things that happen.

So are we born optimists or pessimists? Is this an innate trait that we are genetically predisposed to? I am certain that there is a genetic component to our personalities. But I have also seen those who have had a “change in attitude” who learned to see things differently – those who used to “see the glass half empty” and due to some new perspective or life event have learned to “see the glass half full.”

How we choose to view life, people, work, family, friends and our daily reality is truly in our control. We can see evil intent, impure motives and join the gossip of destruction, or we can choose to build others up, see the good, give the benefit of doubt, not expend negative energy and

become a positive influence in the lives of others we encounter.

These positive people are truly “lights shining in a dark world.”

They are encouragers and uplifters. They are sparks that can ignite a fire of energy and create attitudes of gratitude. I know many such people and I love being around them. Don’t you?

You will notice that the optimistic (“glass half full”) people are typically sought out by others and never lack friends.

Our classrooms have many that fit this description, like Christina Ballard, Brian Corbett, Guillermo Jara and Patty Yuen.

Our office staff exemplifies positivity with people like Nancy Kahl, Kirsten Owen and Jackie Valdez. Our Parent-Faculty Club is filled with such encouragers, for instance Deanne Carlson, Karen Carmen, Megan Kommer and April Winship. (I could have named so many more!)

This holiday season is such a great opportunity to share your love, appreciation and gratitude to others in your life. Tell your son/daughter what you appreciate about them and how thankful you are for them (and be specific about their character, actions, etc.). And let Thanksgiving be a part of every day throughout the year. An attitude of gratitude is contagious.

David Linzey is executive director of CVCHS. Contact him David.linzey@claytonvalley.org

LILIANA HERNANDEZ

TEEN SPEAK order to contain this growth in poverty, U.S. residents need to become active members of their community.

Yet how can one find the time to volunteer? There is always something to do, and volunteering precious time is generally not a priority. People would rather get paid for doing a job than donating their efforts to help someone they have never met. However, if schools and employers required a certain amount of volunteer hours per year from their students and employees, thousands of more hands would be working to diminish the poverty in the U.S. America requires volunteering to be more than a leisure activity during the holidays; actively reaching out to the povertystricken is at the heart of this central idea.

Imagine a world where the majority of the population would willingly give without expecting anything in return.

Imagine seeing the gleam in the eyes of someone you helped because of the effort and time you donated. Imagine being able to change someone’s life. These are all the things that volunteering entails, and who would not want this? Too many people suffer in life, but having more volunteers in American can change that because not only does it benefit those in need, but it fills the volunteer with satisfaction like no other. Volunteers are the only people who can fully appreciate this aspect of life.

America needs more people to volunteer. With 26.5 percent of the population volunteering, there are many more Americans who should be available to offer their services. It is as easy as searching for volunteer opportunities on Google; there are plenty of organizations waiting for people to sign up and make a difference.

Liliana Hernandez is a Senior at Clayton Valley Charter High School.

She loves to read and plans to pursue her interest in writing in the future.

Send email to her at liliana@claytonpioneer.com

Have you heard?

Clayton Valley Medical Group is moving — Jan. 1, 2014 Only 500 feet away from their current address

672-6744

We repair all major appliances, most major brands, and we’re local

The new address is

5439 Clayton Rd, Suite B, Clayton.

36 years Experience Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer Clayton residents Office: (925) 672-2700 Cell: (925) 956-8605 State of California B.E.A.R

l

license #A44842

http://ApplianceRepairsbyBruce.com

Walnut Creek Office:

Pittsburg Office:

3100 Oak Road, #100 Walnut Creek CA 94597 Phone: (925) 937-4211 Richard@LittornoLaw.com

2211 Railroad Ave. Pittsburg CA 94565 Phone: (925) 432-4211 www.LittornoLaw.com

Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

Clayton Furniture, Inc. Lowest Prices Guaranteed

Let us take the hassle out of those dazzling holiday light displays.

Family Business Since 1988

Haoys lOnilydDaec.y6-10S. Nao Slaeles Tax! D

Our holiday angels bring holiday spirit to suit any budget

5

The UPS Store

TM

1

Independently owned and operated

2

Our friendly staff will help you get your gifts packaged and delivered on time, safe & sound.

3

MATTRESSES

Mon. – Sat. 10 – 7, Sun. 12 - 6

On Sale Now Suat Atkin

4

925-686-2299

3400/3410 Clayton Rd., Concord

Notary, Stamps, Postal, Copy & Fax Services also available.

Just Get It Off My List 100 ft. of single level color or LED lights plus remote control on/off switch

$200

Are We In Tahoe?

100 ft. of color or white LED icicle lights plus remote control on/off switch

$250

We Are the Joneses!

Custom packages tailored to your needs.

Angel-Q Holiday Light Installers

(925) 890-1311

claytonfurnitureinc.com

Clayton/Concord Location: Vineyard Shopping Center, (next to Lucky)

Sample Packages Just Get Something Up For the Kids Up to 100 ft. of your lights on a single level home $100

angelqlights@gmail.com

5100 Clayton Rd, Concord, 925-689-6245

Pioneer Guide to Holiday Shopping

New Holiday Hours Mon.-Fri. 8-6:30, Sat. 9-4:30 Open Sunday Dec. 15, 10-3

Earthquake Arabians

REDUCE HOLIDAY STRESS with these

Wonderful Deals! al Speci mber eat r t Dece e an

Sugar and Spice and Everything NICE

yC & Candour hands for y et: $ 3 3 fe

Buy three Half-hr. Massages for

$

Holiday Package

105

3/4-Hour

Swedish Massage.

Express Facial & Express Pedicure

($15 savings)

Spa Manicure & spa Pedicure $

60

$

125

($15 savings)

($5 savings)

5439 E. Clayton Rd., Clayton

•

925-680-7792

www .t h e b e l l a m i a d a y s p a . c o m

Saturday, Dec. 14

Nothing speaks “love” quite as sweetly as that special bond between horse and rider. Earthquake Arabians helps the rider build confidence, pride and the understanding of the responsibilities involved with horses whether it is the rider’s first time in the saddle or they dream of competing at the National level. See ad this page.

Earthquake Arabians.com

Nichols Landscape As the owner and operator of Nichols Landscape, established in 1979, I create beautifully sculpted yards suited to a homeowner’s taste and budget.

When we are on your job, it

The Maids

is our only job. We specialize in custom design that includes pavers, night lighting, drip irrigation, decks, arbors, lawns and retaining walls. See ad page 11.

NicholsLandscape.com

Becky Walker at Permanent Solution Happy Holidays! Give the gift of pampering during this busy season – to you, a friend or a loved one. Becky at Permanent Solution is ready with tons of holiday colors and sparkle Gelish to make your fingers and toes festive. She is available Tuesday through Saturday for manicures, pedicures and gift certificates.

(925) 640-8995

Time is valuable and trust is priceless. That is the philosophy Clayton residents and owners of The Maids built their business over the last 18 years. The Maids uses an exclusive 22step Healthy Touch Deep Cleaning System performed by a team of cleaning professionals. They also use premium, environmentallysafe products. The Maids backs their service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Give them a call to see why they are “referred for a reason.”

Maids.com

Super Holiday Boutique The holiday season’s largest shopping extravaganza is the Fourth Annual Super Holiday Boutique indoors at Centre Concord on Sunday, Dec. 8. Get

11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Prizes

There’s no place like home for the holidays and Clayton Furniture has everything to make that home comfy, cozy and inviting.

One of the oldest furniture businesses in Contra Costa, the store is family owned and operated since 1988.

Clayton Furniture’s success is built on service, integrity and value. claytonfurnitureinc.com

Low Prices. Premium Customer Service. Since 1928.

Welcome to Lehmer’s Concord Buick GMC. Since 1928, Lehmer’s has provided outstanding customer service to the entire Bay Area. Whether you are looking to purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle, seeking auto parts or service, we invite you to experience our state-of-the-art facility and award-winning hospitality. We are the Bay Area's oldest franchised General Motors dealership and service all GM brands, including Cadillac, Chevrolet and Saturn. We look forward to seeing you; stop on by!

Lehmers.com

Visit with Mrs. Claus and Santa at the historic Endeavor Hall Center St., Clayton Children 12 & under: FREE, if accompanied by adult

Donations appreciated

Clayton Furniture

Lehmer’s Concord Buick GMC

Bring your camera

Party favors

special, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and stocking stuffers for family, friends and colleagues from 100 vendors. Free holiday arts and crafts activities that children can make and give as presents. Free entertainment, Santa photo opportunity and holiday gift bag.

Benefiting the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano and Contra Costa Suzuki Strings music mission to Honduras.

ConcordHolidayExpo.com

Horsing Around for the Holidays Holiday Camp Dates 2-Day Camp

Dec. 26-27

5-Day Camp

Dec. 30-Jan. 3

. . . . .$200 . .$500

SIGN UP TODAY!

CAMPS INCLUDE Horseback riding Horsemanship Horse games Free Camp T-shirt Horse Fun! Sponsored by the

Clayton Business & Community Association

Go to claytoncbca.org or call (925)

672-2272 for membership information,

3141 Morgan Territory Rd. Clayton

925.360.7454

Limited camp sizes. Covered arena for all weather riding.

www.EarthquakeArabians.com

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

200 off anything over $2,000

Holiday Special: $

Featuring:

"Gelish Gel Polish" Perfect for the holidays or anytime!

Takes half the time to apply & stays on twice as long.

A great alternative to regular polish or acrylic nails.

FREE ESTIMATES

Call Becky Walker today

for an appointment At Permanent Solution, downtown Clayton:

Lawn & Plant Installation Paver Patio & Walkway Retaining Walls Drainage Low Voltage Lighting

925-672-9955 www.nicholslandscape.com

640-8995

Gift Certificates Available

Lic. 542812 Fully Insured

Boyce Nichols - Owner Clayton Resident

Angel Q Holiday Light Installers Love dazzling holiday lights, but feel like the Grinch when putting up your own lights? Let Angel-Q Holiday Lights take the hassle out of outdoor decorating. Let our holiday angels bring holiday spirit to suit any budget. We can hang existing decorations or do the shopping for you.

(925) 890-1311

Concord United Methodist Church Looking for that “just right” church? Join us throughout the month of December to see if our vision of living the Christian life in the modern world resonates with you. We serve our local community in worship and work, support and song.

Come get to know us!

ConcordUMC.org

Bella Mia Spa Where Life is Beautiful Come let us pamper your body, mind and spirit in our luxurious, Italianesque day spa. Customized European Facials include cleansing, exfoliation, partial massage, extractions and moisturizer.

Massage therapy and spa body treatments are of the highest quality and tailored to your needs. Additional beauty treatments are available. bellamiaspa.com

The UPS Store Got packages to mail?

Pressed for time? Stop by The UPS Store in the Vineyard Shopping Center and let owner Tricia Tamura and her knowledgeable staff help get your gifts delivered safely and on time. They also assist with copies, FAXing, notary services, passport photos, mailboxes, document services and binding. See ad on page 10.

(925) 689-6245

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS

Saturday Saturday Dec. Dec. 7, 7, 6 6 p.m. p.m.

You’re You’re invited invited

UNIVERSAL RACK ACCESSORIES FROM

Clayton Tree Lighting Meet at the Gazebo for Christmas Music

by MDE School Choir

Ascent™ Roof Top Boxes Starting At $350

Vertex™ Hitch Mount Starting At $225 (Available in 2 or 4 Bike)

Hullaport Pro™ Folding J Kayak Carrier $170

Follow Santa down Main Street for the countdown

Flat Top 6-Ski Universal Mount $193

M.O.A.B.™ Sport Cargo Basket $341

Big Mouth™ Upright Bike Carrier $116

ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR CAR, TRUCK, OR SUV

Join friends and neighbors for hot cider and donuts at Clayton Community Church Sponsored by the

Clayton Business & Community Association Go to claytoncbca.org or call (925)

672-2272

Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the

for membership information,

Toys for Tots drive

Side Window Deflectors Starting at $72

Cargo Organizer GMC or Buick Logo $104

All Weather Floor Mats Starting At $56

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF GM ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE VISIT US AT: www.lehmers.com/GMAccessories

1905 Market Street, Concord CA (925) 344-4205 Prices Subject to Change- Pricing Valid Thru 12/31/13

EXPERT INSTALLATION AVAILABLE

Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

Sports Eagles stopped short of NCS repeat by Miramonte JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Coach Tim Murphy’s second season as Clayton Valley Charter High School football coach was much the same as the first: His Eagles lost their opening game to a highlyranked opponent and then got their high-powered wing-gun offense in gear and didn’t lose again until dropping a heartbreaker to end the season in the playoffs.

The difference this year was that CV’s second loss came during November in the semi-finals of North Coast Section rather than in the State Regional Bowl Game in December. Quarterback Drew Anderson and his Miramonte teammates upset the Eagles 44-38 on Black Friday at Gonsalves Stadium ending the local school’s bid for a repeat of its first-ever NCS football title in 2012.

No. 2 seeded Clayton Valley ended the year 11-2 while Miramonte (11-2) will face top seeded and undefeated Casa Grande of Petaluma (13-0) this Saturday in the section finals. Miramonte petitioned NCS to move up from Division III to Division II this year and it paid off as they reached

Jason Rogers photo

QUARTERBACK GABE TAYLOR (12) COMPLETED TWO-THIRDS OF HIS PASSES including 16 touchdown connections versus only two interceptions this year for the Clayton Valley Charter High football team. Taylor, a senior transfer from College Park, was the field general for the high-powered CVCHS offense and made his only pass reception of the season for a touchdown from runningback Miles Harrison as the Eagles tried to rally against Miramonte in their NCS semi-final loss last Friday.

the championship game at the expense of the defending champs.

The semi-final was the expected offensive showcase pitting the running wing-gun

of the Eagles against Miramonte’s passing attack. Clayton Valley was averaging 47

De La Salle senior Patrick Marr signs with former Spartan Gus Argenal’s Cal State basketball team JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Cal State East Bay’s new head men’s basketball coach Gus Argenal has announced that four standout student-athletes have committed to the Pioneers in 2014-15 including De La Salle High School senior Patrick Marr and three junior college transfers.

A 6-7 Clayton product, Marr is in his third season as a varsity player at De La Salle where his future head coach Argenal also played for Frank Allocco. Marr was an honorable mention AllEast Bay Athletic League as a junior.

“Patrick has the heart of a champion and has played for a national power in De La Salle and coach Allocco,” said Argenal. “He plays with an amazing

ing end of a 22-yard TD pass from Harrison on a fourth and 14 play that pulled the Eagles within 36-30 after a two-point PAT run by Harrison.

Miramonte came right back to reestablish a two-touchdown lead on Ray Clark’s second short TD. The score was 42-30 with 5:08 left with the visitors seemingly headed to their first NCS championship game since 2006. Xavier Crawford returned the ensuing kickoff 93 yards for a score and Harrison got another twopoint PAT, leaving the Eagles just six points behind with nearly five minutes to play.

Miramonte recovered the Eagles’ onside kick and was able to hold onto the ball until the final whistle aided by a risky gamble. Coach Jack Schram realized how tough the CV Charter offense was to stop so he had his team go for first down when they faced fourth and seven near midfield. Anderson completed a 15-yard pass and they were able to hold off the Eagles, who exhausted all their timeouts but couldn’t get the ball away from the Mats.

Harrison capped his first varsity season with a career high 33 carries and gained 237 yards putting him just over the 2000-yard mark.

motor and will bring tremendous skill and competitiveness to our frontcourt. He has the

ability to change the game with his rebounding, and he’s going to be a huge part of our success

Photo courtesy De La Salle High School

DE LA SALLE SENIOR PATRICK MARR is starting his third year on Spartan varsity basketball and he will be moving to Cal State East Bay next year for coach Gus Argenal, a former DLS player who took over coaching the Pioneers in June. Marr signed his national letter of intent last month.

Is your son or daughter interested in playing competitively?

moving forward.”

Marr helped lead the Spartans to an overall record of 54-8 over the last two years, winning back-to-back EBAL championships. Marr’s sophomore year, De La Salle claimed the North Coast Section crown, and in both seasons the Spartans reached the semi-finals of the Northern California State tournament.

“In a program known for players who have a great work ethic, Patrick’s commitment and effort rank in the upper echelon,” said De La Salle coach Allocco. “A team-first guy, Pat will enhance the quality of the Pioneers’ program with his attitude, effort, and desire to improve.”

Marr is one of seven local high school senior to sign a national letter of intent during the early college signing period.

points and the visitors 40 entering the semi-final.

Clayton Valley scored 22 points in the second quarter and 16 in the fourth but was shut out in the first and third stanzas. The only other game this year when the Eagles had two scoreless quarters was in their other loss to De La Salle way back in August. The home team took a 22-13 lead late in the second quarter as junior running back Miles Harrison score three touchdowns in the period on runs of 8, 23 and 25 years while accumulating 132 yards from scrimmage before the intermission.

Miramonte wasn’t to be deterred as they scored a touchdown, recovered an onside kick and scored another TD before halftime. After each of those TDs the Matadors also notched two-point conversions and led 29-22.

The Eagles’ first drive of the second half was stopped when Harrison could only gain three yards on a fourth and six effort, turning the ball over on downs and leading to a third Anderson TD pass capping a 76-yard Miramonte drive to take a 36-22 lead.

Clayton Valley came up with some trickery in the fourth quarter as quarterback Gabe Taylor was on the receiv-

NORTHGATE ALSO MATS VICTIM In the Division II quarterfinals Miramonte picked off another Diablo Valley Athletic League team with a 66-28 win over Northgate (9-3) despite the heroics of Bronco running back Eric Haynes who finished his career in style with 372 yards rushing on 40 carries and scoring five touchdowns.

Quarterback Anderson paced the victor with six TD passes and 358 yards through the air including three scoring tosses to his younger brother Ryan Anderson.

Clayton Valley defeated the other Walnut Creek entry in the NCS football playoffs the previous evening with a 59-13 win over Las Lomas. Harrison had a career best 305 yards rushing including four TD runs.

Haynes completed his season with 2060 yards and 36 touchdowns. He amassed 634 yards in his two NCS games for coach Justin Lowell’s team.

Northgate has won nine or more games three of the past four years.

Steffan Smith

Construction

The Blaze from All Out Sports League will be hosting tryouts soon for their spring teams:

Spring Basketball Camps

Now Open For Registration Blaze AAU Basketball: Open to boys 8u - 15u.

Tryouts: Dec. 21 & 22, 2013

“Preservation Award” for this this 2012 winner for

Arts & & Crafts Crafts kitchen! kitchen!

Arts

Residential Remodeling and Renovation Specializing in Kitchens and Bathrooms

BlaGo ze!

Blaze Travel Baseball: Open to boys 11u - 12u.

Tryouts: Jan. 4, 2014

www.blazetravelball.com

Your remodeling job is our priority from start to finish General contractor with 25 years hands-on experience Clayton resident License #B801149

Call for free estimate or advice

(925) 914-0497

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 13

Sports

“ Let Us Light Up Your Life” Residential

Commercial

Industrial

Serving Contra Costa since 1991 More than 35 years experience

MDSA World Cup teams moved on to Area Cup

All Work Done by Owner Bonded & Insured Lic.#C10-631523

Professional Installation of:

Ceiling Fans, Recessed & Track Lighting Kitchen or Bath Remodel Exterior/Security/Landscape Lighting Electrical Service Upgrade Complete Home Wiring - Old & New Spa Installation

www.BurkinElectric.net

Photos courtesy MDSA

TEAM RUSSIA DEFEATED JAPAN 3-0 IN THE FINALS OF THE MDSA WORLD CUP U12 GIRLS DIVISION. Russia “came together as a team” in the World Cup, according to coaches Karen and Robb Halleybone. A week after the World Cup Japan/Black Widows reversed that result with a 5-1 win in the championship game of the AYSO Area 2C Cup for coach Mark Kelly.

MDSA sister team Korea/Aftershock coached by Jeff Steeley was third at Area Cup and also in the World Cup. Russia/Hyper Monkeys team included, front row from left, Jessica Myers, Lili Ryan, Gabbie Aguallo, Camille Jones; back row, Reagan Bowerbank, Mady Hayworth, Morgan Pacini, Leilani Fabriquer, Emily McCormick, Laura Garcia-Miller, Elena Tung and Ava Halleybone.

U14 PORTUGAL BOYS go back-to-back by winning the MDSA World Cup and then the AYSO Area 2C Cup. The team concludes its fall rec season next weekend in Foster City for the Section tournament. The MDSA World Cup final between coach Joern Weigelt’s Portugal and Croatia was a tight affair.

Croatia tied the score in the dying seconds followed by two scoreless overtimes. Paul Patterson scored the decisive penalty in the sixth round of the shootout for the crown. Portugal then won four straight games including 2-0 over Concord AYSO 2 in the Area Cup finale. Portugal includes (front, l to r), Clifton Cooper, Liam Mason, Torin Neal, Max Schmidtbauer, Colin Cox, Jacob Coppa, Adam Birder; (back) coach Joern Weigelt, Quinn Wilkinson, Ian Grimmond, John Cook, Niklas Weigelt, Caleb Wessel, Paul Patterson and assistant coach Mitch Cox.

James Burkin Sole Proprietor

Everything from home repair & maintenance to construction • EXTERIOR: painting, windows, doors, decks, outdoor structures.

Spec deferred m ializing in ainte home for sa nance, prepping le, repairs from home insp ections

• INTERIOR: plumbing, drywall, electrical, trim, tile.

Lic. 979406

Gary Romano

787-2500 Reliable & Professional Service Owner operated Over 35 years of experience

Local Authorized Dealer

Just Floors 1051 #B Detroit Ave. Concord, CA 94518 At the Back Entrance to Costco

925-681-4747 Lic. #708486

JustFloorsConcord.com

TWO UNDER 14 GIRLS TEAMS FROM MDSA PROVED THERE IS VERY LITTLE TO SEPARATE THE SQUADS in two season-ending tournaments.

Peru, coached by Anthony Campos, defeated Team USA in the finals of the MDSA World Cup in overtime 2-1 after the teams drew in regulation time. Emma Ramirez scored the game winning goal in the second overtime. The championship result was reversed at the AYSO Area 2C Cup with MDSA Infinity (USA) defeating their sister MDSA team (Peru/Incas) 3-1 in the championship match. Infinity jumped out with three first-half goals by Sarah Concepcion, Skylar Hellstrom and Claire Farley at the Area Cup to give the title to the team coached by Ruben Izon and Jose Soltero Jr. The teams (Peru/Incas in dark jerseys and USA/Infinity in light) got together after the World Cup for a joint photo.

Sports Shorts NICK MAZZA MOST IMPROVED SAC STATE FOOTBALL PLAYER

school. This is an opportunity to youth baseball players to get ready for upcoming tryouts and the 2014 season. It’s also a chance for future CVCHS Eagles to work with the school’s coaching staff and team. Boys and girls five – 14 can participate. The sessions are 9 a.m.-noon. Cost is $60. Email coach Coakley at ugleeaglebaseball@gmail.com for a registration form.

Redshirt sophomore Nick Mazza, a 2011 graduate of Clayton Valley High, was named most improved player at the Sacramento State football awards dinner. Mazza had 35 tackles this season after recording nine in 2012, when he primarily played on special teams.

This fall he started all 12 games at defensive tackle for the Hornets, who were 5-7 overall. Clayton resident Mazza set a career high six tackles against Northern Colorado.

Tryouts for girls and boys Diablo FC competitive teams in the under 9 through U14 age groups will be held in February. Players born between Aug. 1, 2000 and July 31, 2006 can try out for teams in Concord. U9-U11 tryouts are Feb. 1-9 while the U12-U14 age groups will hold sessions Feb. 22-Mar. 2. There is no cost to try out and players can register in advance online at diablofc.org.

CVCHS BASEBALL HOSTS SECOND HOT STOVE DINNER JAN. 10

CVAA FALCONS POKER TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER SATURDAY

Clayton Valley Charter High School baseball coach Casey Coakley is hosting the second annual Hot Stove Dinner on Friday, Jan. 10.

The evening’s festivities will whet the appetite of baseball fans, Clayton Valley alumni and current CVCHS families in the cold winter months before spring training starts again. There will be lots of baseball talk with guest speakers and Clayton Valley coaches past and present and former Eagle players who went on to college and professional careers. Door prizes, raffles and dinner all benefit CVCHS Baseball and its scholarship fund. The event is from 6-9:30 p.m. at Shadelands Civic Arts Center, 111 N. Wiget Ln. at Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Walnut Creek. For more information and to buy tickets at $40 each email coach Coakley at uglyeaglebaseball@gmail.com.

Proceeds from this Saturday’s poker tournament will benefit the Clayton Valley Falcons cheerleading teams travel to national team competition in Las Vegas. The tournament will be at Clayton Library. Doors open at 6 p.m. with a silent auction, raffle, dinner, beer and wine before the tournament starts at 7:30. For more information call Kelli Brigance at (925) 260-8304 or visit cvaafalcons.com.

OAKHURST ORCAS HEAD SWIM COACH JASMINE MILLAN RETURNS IN 2014 Oakhurst Orcas are pleased to announce that head coach Jasmine Millan will return for a third season in 2014. Millan has been coaching for over 15 years ranging in ability from novice level to college.

She is also head coach of the Carondelet High School North Coast Section championship team. Her coaching philosophy is to teach all swimmers love for the sport of swimming through principles of positive self-imagery, dedication, cooperation, hard work, friendships and fun. Oakhurst Orcas registration dates are Mar. 12 and Apr. 11 from 6:30-8 p.m. at Oakhurst Country Club. Early registration discounts are available before March 12. Information is available at oakhurstorcas.com.

YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC JAN. 2-3 AT CVCHS Clayton Valley Charter High School head coach Casey Coakley will conduct a Preseason Youth Baseball Clinic on Jan. 2-3 at the

FREE ESTIMATES

925-250-0334

DIABLO FC SOCCER TRYOUTS FOR 2014 TEAMS COMING UP

FALL YOUTH, ADULT PROGRAMS COMING TO CLAYTON GYM A variety of programs at Clayton Community Gym are taking signups now through All Out Sports League. Winter youth basketball league Dec. 28-Feb. 15 is now taking signups for players 4-16.

Youth hip hop and jazz classes are every Monday for 5-16 year-olds.

Zumba classes are Wednesday and Friday at 6 p.m. Blaze AAU basketball (Dec. 21) and Blaze travel baseball tryouts for 11u-12u (Jan. 4) are coming up. Registration for 2014 spring basketball academy and t-ball is open. For complete information on all the programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES SOCCER ACADEMY RETURNS IN JANUARY San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer and Diablo FC are holding the 13th annual Winter Soccer Academy on Mondays and Thursdays Jan. 16-Feb. 27 under the lights at Willow Pass Park in Concord. Girls and boys 5-10 years of age and all skill levels are eligible for the Academy, which brings professional coaching experience headed by St. Mary’s College men’s head coach Adam Cooper and Brazilian World Cup and Olympic player Tafa. For more information visit the Earthquakes Youth Alliance Partner’s website at diablofc.org.

Owners Dustin & Kim Waraner Contractors Lic #879423 Arborist Lic WE-7372A

Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

Sports San Francisco Giants make big pitch in offseason signings Design • Installation Maintenance License # 958849

Commercial & Residential

Spend time enjoying your landscape…not working on it!

The Law Office of Daniel L. DuRee Estate Planning Attorney

Please call today for a complimentary consultation

(925) 210-1400 1535 N. Main St., Walnut Creek

TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK The Major League Baseball offseason has just begun and teams are already scrambling to make signings of elite free agents to improve their rosters.

Already there has been a blockbuster trade between the Texas Rangers and the Detroit Tigers, the Tigers sending first baseman Prince Fielder to the Rangers in exchange for second baseman Ian Kinsler.

For the two Bay Area baseball teams, the Giants have been the big spenders so far, doling out big contracts to re-sign some of their veterans, and also signing free agent pitcher Tim Hudson.

The Hudson signing was a great move by Giant’s general manager Brian Sabean. Hudson, who is currently 38, signed a two-year, $23 million contract with the Giants on Nov. 18. One of the key weaknesses for the Giant last year was their poor and inconsistent starting pitching. Hudson now solidifies the fourth starter’s role, and he will do a great job doing so.

Last year Hudson posted a 3.98 ERA and a 1.18 WHIP before his season was derailed by getting cleated in his ankle while attempting to cover first base. This will be Hudson’s second run in the Bay Area in his career, his first being with the Oakland Athletics.

The A’s drafted Hudson in the sixth round of the 1997 draft, and he proved to be a valuable pitcher. In his rookie season, Hudson had an 11-2

record and was honored as Rookie of the Year for his great season. In the next season, his second year, Hudson was a winner of 20 games and was the runner up to the AL Cy Young award. Hudson Pitched in Oakland until 2004, and then he played for the Atlanta Braves from 2005 to 2013. He will now be joining the starting rotation with Madison Bumgarner, Matt Cain, and Tim Lincecum.

The signing of Lincecum was somewhat a shock. Lincecum, in many aspects, is no more than an average pitcher at this stage of his career. Despite this, the Giants were willing to shell out a 2-year, $35 million deal to him. The fact that Hudson, a man in his late 30s, has been pitching better than Lincecum over the past few years and he only received $9 million a year, shows the respect the

Giants organization has for Lincecum. One can’t help but think this contract was somewhat of a “thank you” deal, and one that was based heavily on the marketing side.

The Giants have done a decent job so far in free agent signing this year. Besides signing Hudson and re-signing Lincecum, they re-signed outfielder Hunter Pence, relief pitcher Javier Lopez and fifth starter Ryan Vogelsong. The Hudson signing will be very beneficial for the Giants next season, but the move to sign Lincecum for the amount that he received leaves one scratching their head.

Tyler Lehman is a sophomore at Diablo Valley College and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He plans to major in journalism and wants to be a sports writer. Email your comments or questions to Tyler@claytonpioneer.com.

• Wills • Trusts • Healthcare Directives • Powers of Attorney • Probate

Clayton resident Kim Lackey wins gold at USA Pickleball National Tournament JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

FREE estimates Specializing in Bathrooms and Kitchens Remodeling Windows/Doors Crown Molding Overhangs Decks Siding Trim

Clayton Noel O’ Meara Declan Woods Resident 925.518.0821 925.216.2679 TipperaryConstruction.com

Tipperary Construction Inc. General Contractor,

license# 783799, B, HIC

Kim Lackey of Clayton, who established herself as a top flight tennis player over the years, won a gold medal at the USA Pickleball Association’s National V tournament in women’s singles (50+) division last month.

The Nationals is the premiere sanctioned annual tournament hosted by the USA Pickleball Association. Pickleball is widely recognized as America’s fastest growing sport.

The game is played on a doubles badminton-sized court with the net lowered to 34 inches at the center, with a polymer ball slightly smaller than a whiffle ball and paddles made of composite material.

With over 600 registered players, USAPA Nationals V in Arizona was the largest pickleball tournament in the history of the sport with players from 39 states plus Canada and the Netherlands. Players competed for prize money and the event was played on 28

courts during a week of fast-paced play in both open and age divisions.

Lackey was part of the original induction class of 2008 to the Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame for her tennis exploits. She has excelled on the United States Tennis Association senior circuit, including winning national titles at several age groups.

She lost only one DVAL league match in four years for Clayton Valley and came back to coach girls and boys tennis at her alma mater and also for over a decade at Diablo Valley College.

According to David Jordan, tournament co-chair and president of the USAPA, “Nationals is the USAPA’s signature event each year. The USAPA has proudly achieved a 23 percent increase in membership and unprecedented growth this year, thanks in part to our 700 dedicated Ambassadors and the explosion of new places to play pickleball across the country.”

Photo courtesy USAPA

KIM LACKEY OF CLAYTON won a gold medal at the USA Pickleball Association’s National V tournament in the women’s singles (50+) division last month in Arizona. The long-time tennis player is part of America’s fastest growing sport.

King, Bennet families, from page 1 It could be a virus, or it could just need a tune-up.

Prevent problems caused by viruses and spyware with regular proactive maintenance.

TOTAL DESKTOP CARE & SERVER WATCH Low cost, fixed fee services that monitor & maintain your network Call Mark 925.672.6029 or to minimize info@netsolutions-ca.com IT problems

there for us since my mom (died) and everything,” Sammy said. “Even though both of my parents have passed, we’ve gained like 50 new parents.

Every single parent I know has been there for us.”

“I think communities that are strong are the ones that take care of the ones in hard times,” said CVCHS football coach Tim Murphy “It wasn’t even a blink, the next day, people were asking how they could help.”

Asked what was the one thing they could really use in this holiday season, Sammy was hesitant.

“Once I get a car, I’ll be mobile,” she said finally. “I’ve

been walking to work a lot. I can go visit my sister when I have a day off. I’m taking classes five days a week. Having a car is going to change everything.”

NOT ALONE The community is lending its support to another local family as well.

While helping his team win game after game, no one would guess that star CVCHS quarterback Gabe Taylor and his family are just hanging on, living in a shelter and counting on friends to help them survive.

“They’ve held it together through really tough times,” said Murphy of both Jacob and Gabe. I think you figure out who you are when the most devastating things happen to you.”

Gabe’s mom and his three siblings have had struggles throughout their lives. Mom Dawn Bennett labored to keep the family afloat with a series of jobs, with no support from the children’s father. Despite her efforts, however, the family lost their home in 2011 and was forced to move in with friends, and then to a shelter. There, the family of five lives crowded into a 350-square foot unit while Dawn fills out paperwork to qualify for disability and food assistance programs.

Dawn told only a few people of their plight. Instead, she continued marching forward, working as a medical assistant until again life dealt her a blow, and an old back injury flared up again, forcing her to stop work.

Learning of the situation of their star quarterback, and of his mom who could be found cheerfully helping at team dinners every week, the CVCHS football crew stepped forward again.

“They’ve been helping out a lot,” said Gabe. “They all put gift cards down, they bought me some slippers, Coach Murph bought me cleats. They give my mom gas cards and stuff, money to go shopping. The football team, they just think of everyone as a family.”

LOOKING AHEAD Both Gabe and Sammy King have been inspired by the help they’ve gained from the community to help others themselves.

As Gabe listed the reasons why he wants to be a firefighter someday, his sense of humor glimmered through.

“One, because I want to help others,” he counted. “Two it’s a steady job, and there’s a lot of benefits that come with it.

And three, the dog. There’s

going to be a firefighter dog there, I’m going to name him Spot.”

Asked what she plans to do once she graduates college, Sammy said she hopes to become a chemotherapy specialist like the ones who helped her mother at the hospital.

“When my mom was doing her chemotherapy, she looked forward to seeing her nurse,” she said.

“Even though you’re going through a bad situation, there’s something positive in your day,” Sammy said. “I want to be that person.”

Memorial Funds

A memorial fund has been set up for the King family at Wells Fargo Bank. Deposits can be made at any Wells Fargo using account number 3640420802. Checks should be made out to The King Family Fund.

To help the Bennett family. go to gofundme.com/5huslw or drop off donations or gift cards at Weichert Realty, 5356 Clayton Rd. #101, Concord, attention Julie Rogers; jrogers@weichert.com

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 15

Vets baffled by jerky treat mystery MARYBETH RYMER,

DVM

PET PALS [Editor’s Note: Regrettably, this will be Dr. Rymer’s last column for the Pioneer. We (and our pets) are grateful for 10 years of informative and relevant articles.]

Recently, the FDA reached out to veterinarians to assist in their ongoing investigation of mysterious pet illnesses associated with jerky pet treat products. The first reports occurred in 2007. As of Sept.

24, 2013, 3600 dogs and 10 cats worldwide have become ill

from ingesting jerky treats containing chicken, duck, sweet potato or dried fruit.

There have been more than 580 product related deaths.

The majority of these treats have been made in China. So far the causal agent(s) have not been identified. In January of 2013, the finding of antibiotic residues banned in foods led to a recall of Waggin’ Train and Canyon Creek Ranch treats made by Nestlé Purina PetCare Co., and Milo’s Kitchen by Del Monte. But to date the FDA is unsure that these residues are the cause.

Sixty percent of complaints the FDA has received involve gastrointestinal illness with or without liver enzymes elevation. Kidney or urinary illness account for 30 percent, with

the last 10 percent including a variety of signs such as seizures, tremors, hives and skin irritations.

Decreased appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, increased drinking and increased urination are early signs of toxicity.

Within the urinary cases the FDA has had 135 reports of Fanconi Syndrome. In this disease the proximal tubules in the kidney are damaged, allowing essential metabolic nutrients such as glucose, bicarbonates and amino acids to leak into the urine. This syndrome has previously been seen as a hereditary disease in Basenjis and Norwegian Elkhounds.

But now it is the hallmark of Jerky Treat toxicity. There is no cure, but a special diet will

help control the progressive electrolyte imbalances and metabolic acidosis that will eventually cause death.

If you suspect your pet ingested any of the above mentioned treats, see your veterinarian for an exam/consultation along with a blood and urine panel to screen for liver and kidney disease. Keep the remaining treats in their original bag and take to your appointment. It is very important for the FDA to obtain lot numbers from these bags.

In their “Dear Veterinarian” letter issued on Oct. 22, the FDA requested that veterinarians send in treats for analysis to FDA’s Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (VetLIRN). If screening lab tests

Roux and Nutmeg are ARF’s adoption stars The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60 percent off one 7-week dog training session.

Nutmeg is a one-year-old sweetie who is looking for a family to play (and chat) with.

She’s a real snuggle bug. It is unknown whether Nutmeg has previous experience with children. She is suitable for a first time cat guardian.

The adoption fee for adult cats is $50.

ROUX

Three-year-old Roux is a darling sweetie pie who would love a quiet, gentle home where she can enjoy a regular daily rou-

NUTMEG

tine that includes fun walks and lots of love, as well as comfy pillows to lie on. Roux is a bit shy in new situations and

would benefit from adopters who will give her the time and patience she needs to acclimate and settle in.

Webcams help bring friends into focus

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

Wednesday, 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m.

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

Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arf.net, or call 925.256.1ARF.

indicate disease, FDA may request a urine Fanconi profile be submitted to the Vet-LIRN. The FDA also asks that veterinarians provide information to the FDA Safety Reporting Portal regarding jerky pet treat illnesses. So any information you can supply to your veterinarian regarding how long your pet was eating the treats, whether you gave in pieces or whole, and other foods or treats you may have feed will be helpful Lastly, FDA requested that veterinarians distribute this fact sheet to our clients. Please visit this website for more detailed information: fda.gov/downloads/NewsEvents/Newsroom/FactSheets/UCM371715.pdf.

Get Acquainted Offer

FREE Office Visit Exam New clients only.

Limit one per family.

Expires 3/31/2014

Office Hours Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. & 2 – 5:30 p.m.

Every other Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Dr. Linda M. Miller 5435 Clayton Road, Ste I Clayton

Marybeth Rymer, DVM, can be reached at Monte Vista Animal Hospital, Concord. 672-1100.

925-672-CATS (2287)

cathospitalofclayton.com

Resort, Spa, Salon

Extraordinary Care for your Pet

FREE pickup & delivery Open 7 days a week Fully staffed & monitored 24/7

10% off Boarding & Grooming services with this ad

Exotic Pets Welcome!

Josie Van Fleet, Owner and Operator (925) 432-PETS (7387) 671 Willow Pass Road #6, Pittsburg

PittsburgPetResort.com

WILL CLANEY

TECH TALK These days everyone is on the web in one way or another, and with so many people communicating with one another by sending messages back and forth, how do you make yourself really stand-out? How do you make a difference in the crowd so you can develop real contacts and friends?

You make a difference with pictures, of course.

Your web experience will be heightened by a little device gaining big attention, the webcam. Nothing says hello quite as well as a picture with your smiling face. The message you are trying to get across to the other person is made more powerful by the use of a web cam.

Just imagine the person sending you a message is showing off their Thanksgiving turkey and now you want to show them yours (it’s 18 pounds and looks to be cooked way better than theirs).

So, you want to show off that marvelous bird but you don’t have a good web cam, or the one you have is old, with low resolution, slow connections, fuzzy pictures, skipping frames, has glitches or doesn’t even work on your new com-

Out with the old webcam...

...in with the new.

puter. Metaphorically it’s a turkey. What to do?

Easy answer; buy a new web cam. Well, I looked on Amazon, and they have dozens of web cam offers – so which one? Here’s my take on this subject.

Any one you buy is probably better than the one you already have if you purchased it two years ago or more. You need to plan for the future; you need a web cam with at least 720p (pixels) to 1020p resolution, auto focus options, USB connectors and compatible with Windows 7 AND Windows 8. I found out the hard way a Windows XP cam doesn’t deliver the goods in a Windows 8 environment because the software and hardware are antiques. I had to toss my old Phillips cam. Yeah, the cam works in native mode, but it’s not so good.

To solve my low resolution issue I purchased a Microsoft HD-5000. That name sounds powerful doesn’t it?

The camera performs well and the pictures look top notch at 720p, but (and you knew the “but” was coming) the software isn’t Windows 8 compatible so the cam only works in its basic mode. The missing software detracts greatly from the experience, but the software that is included is fine.

So, which one?

I would recommend the Microsoft Life Cam. Overall it works great, is easy to setup and use, and the quality of the video is better than the others I tested. Really nothing else comes close. So, happy shopping and remember the web cam for Christmas, I am sure the gift will be appreciated.

Merry Christmas from the geeks at ComputersUSA and thank you for your support, it feels like we’re family.

William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to will@claytonpioneer.com.

Serving Northern California for Over 30 Years

Residential & Commercial

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

FREE ESTIMATES

(925) 831-2323

Specializing in Large Hazardous Trees & Heritage Oak trees Crane Service Tree & Stump Removal Arborist Consulting Arborist Reports Pruning/Cabling Fire Abatement Custom Milled Lumber Firewood

Ed Waraner 8861 Marsh Creek Rd, Clayton

Bonded and Fully Insured

Lic. #642272 Certified Arborist WE-3386A

Major Credit Cards Accepted

www.waranerbrostree.com

CCC Certified Fire Abatement

Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. DEC. 11 FOR THE DEC. 20 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

IN CLAYTON Dec. 6 - 31 A Heart for Christmas Walk through a winter wonderland of lasers, snow machines and over 15,500 lights on one acre of property. 5 – 9 p.m. Weekends 5 – 11 p.m. 1185 Pine Lane, Clayton. info@aheartforchristmas.com.

Dec. 7 Annual Caroling and Tree Lighting Downtown festivities. Carriage rides 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Caroling, followed by Santa, tree lighting and refreshments starting at 6 p.m. Grove Park to Main and Oak Streets, Clayton. Free. Clayton Business and Community Association 672-2272.

Dec. 12 Clayton Pioneer Cookie Contest Bake a batch of your best Christmas cookies. Live music and Santa at the judging party. 6:30 – 8 p.m. Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. Free. Register by Dec. 10. Clayton Pioneer 6720500.

Dec. 14 Dessert with Mrs. Claus Prizes, party favors. Bring camera. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Donations appreciated. Clayton Business and Community Association 672-2272.

Dec. 15 Christmas Home Tour Self-guided tour of six homes in Clayton beautifully decorated for the holidays. 12 – 7 p.m. Rain or shine. Starts at Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St. $30. Proceeds benefit the Clayton Historical Society. claytonhistory.org. Call 672-7680 or email museum@claytonhistory.org.

First Thursdays Oakhurst Business Network Meets first Thursday of the month for social hour. Hosted hors d’oeuvres, cash bar. 6 – 7:30 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. oakhurstcc.com.

IN CONCORD Tuesdays Farmers’ Market Tuesdays year round, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.

Thanksgiving thru Christmas Mr. Christmas See 50,000 lights celebrating 35 years of creative holiday light decorations at Mr. Xmas’ house. 5208 Olive Dr., Concord.

Dec. 6 Holiday Concert Vintage performs holiday favorites and new music. 7:30 p.m. St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Free. vintagetrio.com.

Dec. 7 Tree Lighting, Concord Santa, entertainment, Mayor’s sing along and tree lighting. 4 – 7:30 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, Willow Pass Road between Mt. Diablo and Grant Streets, Concord. concordfirst.org. 671-3464.

Dec. 9 Hospice Tree of Lights Annual ceremony. 5:30 p.m. John Muir Medical Center parking lot, East Street and Almond Avenue, Concord. Donations accepted. Hospice of the East Bay. 887-5678.

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

Dec. 21 Winter Solstice Saunter Celebrate the shortest day of the year by hiking up one of Mount Diablo’s shortest satellite spurs, Twin Peaks. 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Reservations required.

Save Mount Diablo programs listed are free unless otherwise noted. Go to savemountdiablo.org and click on Activities/Guided Hikes for more information. 947-3535.

Dec. 14 Fire Views See the effects of the Morgan Fire on a hike from Clayton to the summit of Mount Diablo. Extremely difficult hike; experienced hikers only. 9 a. m. – 3 p.m. Meet at end of Mountaire Parkway, Clayton.

Dec. 21 Post Fire Hike Join professional botanist and SMD Board Member Heath Bartosh on a tour to better understand the post-fire impacts to the chaparral plant community. Moderately difficult hike. 9 a.m.

– 2 p.m. Meet at SMD’s Wright Canyon property, 4390 Morgan Territory Road, Clayton. Registration required: 947-3535 or smdinfo@savemountdiablo.org.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Dec. 6 -8 Artists’ Market Sponsored by Civic Arts Education and Clay Arts Guild. Artists exhibit a wide variety of artwork for sale at two locations.

Shadelands, 111 N. Wiget Lane; Civic Park, 1313 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. arts-ed.org or clayartsguild.com. 943-5846.

Dec. 6 - 8, 13 - 15 “Aladdin Jr.” The story of the teenage Cleopatra who is magically transported into the 21st century. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10-$20. pittsburgcommunitytheatre.org. 439-7529.

Dec. 6 – 15 North Pole Revue Christmas family show presented by CCT, Inc. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14.50. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 6 - 28 “A Christmas Carol” True to the spirit of Charles Dickens’ timeless story of redemption with a playful sensibility to his rich language. American Conservatory Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. act-sf.org.

(415) 749-2228.

Dec. 7 Cash Tribute Show Featuring James Garner delivering the Man in Black’s music with conviction, accuracy, sincerity and honesty. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Dec. 7 Holiday Concert Diablo Women’s Chorale performs Home for the Holidays. 3 p.m. Mt. Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church, 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. $10-$15. diablowomenschorale.org.

Dec. 8 An East County Christmas The Summerset Singers, an East County Senior Chorus, performs Christmas music favorites and an original composition by Nancy Bachmann. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $5-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Dec. 9 Holiday Concert Sing along to holiday favorites performed by the Walnut Creek Chorus. Reception follows. 7:30 p.m. Trinity Lutheran Church, 2317 Buena Vista Ave., Walnut Creek. $10-$12. 935-3360.

Dec. 12, 15 “Christmas Belles” Southern fried comedy revolving around the antics of the Futrelle sisters performed by Onstage Theatre Repertory. Martinez Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $10-$18. onstagethhm@aol.com. 518-3277.

Dec. 12 – 22 “A Christmas Carol” Brimming with music and dance, love and laughter and scary ghosts. Performed by Center REP. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $41-$49. centerrep.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 14 Holiday Concert Oakland East Bay Gay Men’s Chorus sings holiday classics as well as African, spiritual and gospel-style music. 7:30 p.m.

Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $5-$25. oebgmc.org.

Dec. 14 Illusion Fusion Alex Ramon Magic. 3 and 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $37. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469.

Dec. 19 – 20 “A Christmas Carol” Abridged reading of the story, including puppets. Cue Productions Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. $20-$25. b8company.com.

Dec. 19 – 22 “The Biggest Gift” Join the fun and laughter as Tucker the Elf and the toys set out to save Christmas. Performed by Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble.

Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 20 Guitar Series Marc Teicholz plays classical guitar. 7:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org.

943-7469.

Dec. 21 - 22 “The Nutcracker” Performed by The Ballet Company of East County. 12 and 4 p.m.

El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $16-$20. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Dec. 23 Home for the Holidays Holiday-themed program for families with the California Symphony and special guests Pacific Boychoir. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15-$65. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

CHURCHES AND RELIGION Dec. 6 – 7 “The Star of Bethlehem” Was this a holy happening or just happenstance? Family movie night. Refreshments served. Friday at 7 p.m. Saturday at 6 p.m.

Crossroads Covenant Church, 5353 Concord Blvd., Concord.

Free. 798-5905.

Dec. 13 Advent Concert The St. Bonaventure Resurrection Choir tells the Christmas story through song, heavenly images and the written word. 6 – 8:30 p.m. St. Bonaventure, Main Sanctuary, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Free concert. Holiday boutique in foyer benefiting church’s food pantry. stbonaventure.net.

FUNDRAISERS Thru December Food Drive Drop off canned food on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.

KinderCare, 6095 Main St., Clayton. 672-9370.

Dec. 7 Holiday Craft Fair Fundraiser sponsored by Ayers Elementary School Parent Teacher Association. Multiple vendors, hand made items, raffles and food.

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Ayers, 5120 Myrtle Drive, Concord. For more information, contact ayerspta@gmail.com.

Dec. 8 Super Holiday Boutique Special, one-of-a-kind gifts. Free arts and crafts, entertainment and Santa photo opportunity. Benefiting Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano and Contra Costa Suzuki Strings. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road, Concord. Free admission. concordholidayexpo.com.

Dec. 14 Food Drive Movie, lion dance and Kung Fu demonstration. 5 p.m. Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy, 5100 Clayton Road, A10, Concord. $5 or 5 canned goods donation requested for Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. Academy: 288-0900.

Dec. 14 RockSkool Tribute band performs rock music benefiting Mount Diablo Music Education Foundation. 9 p.m. Blu42 Lounge, 1251 Arroyo Way, Walnut Creek. $15. mdmef.org.

Dec. 14 Toy Drive CVCHS Men’s Lacrosse team is collecting new, unwrapped toys for children ages 11 and under for the Bay Area Crisis Nursery.

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The gazebo at Grove Park, downtown Clayton.

For more information, contact Ben or Tracey Morse at 207-0382.

Dec. 15 The World of Webber A cabaret tribute to the songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber benefiting the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. 2:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

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

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

Call in advance.

Dec. 11 Holiday Dance Around the World Join Nicola Clay for dances and games from around the world celebrating the season. Fun for the whole family. 6 p.m.

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

Dec. 6 - 8 Book Sale Hardcovers $1. Paperbacks $.50. Children’s books $.25-$.50.

Fri. 1 – 8 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sun. 1 – 4 p.m. $3/bag.

Dec. 7 Computers and Technology If you need help with your mouse, come to our house. Drop-in assistance to learn how to use computers, smart phones and tablets. 12 - 2 p.m. Additional dates and times offered. Check library calendar.

Dec. 7, 14 Covered California Join representatives from Covered California’s Community Outreach Network to find the answers about the new healthcare program. Enrollment counselors on site to sign you up. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Dec. 14 Holiday Dance Around the World Join us for festive dances from around the world. 3 p.m.

Dec. 16 Movie Night Showing PG-rated film with Christmas theme. Kids 5 – 11. 7 p.m. Registration required.

SCHOOLS Thru Jan. 29 Open Enrollment Enrollment for Clayton Valley Charter High School is open through Jan. 29 at 4 p.m. Eighth grade Parent Information Night is Jan. 14 at 7 p.m. Academy Information meeting is Jan. 16 at 7 p.m. claytonvalley.org. 682-7474.

Dec. 7 Breakfast with Santa Hot breakfast, picture with Santa, crafts for kids. Donate new stuffed animals for firefighters and EMTs to hand out to children during crisis; chance to win wreath. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Cauchi Hall, St. Agnes School, 3886 Chestnut Ave., Concord. $12 ages 5 and up. 689-3990.

GOVERNMENT 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

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

1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, except Dec. 24 Concord City Council 6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.

Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at claytonpioneer.com.

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Performing Arts

Ballet Gala features classic dance, Nutcracker traditions

Clayton’s Jim Hudak wins national award for holiday CD

JIM HUDAK

Jim Hudak, a pianist-composer from Clayton, has won the prestigious Zone Music Reporter award for “Best Holiday CD of the Year” for 2012. His latest CD, “Embracing Winter,” was completed near the end of last year and received substantial airplay around the world from broadcasters who vote on the award.

“The tangible recognition for your work is always nice,” says Hudak. “We all appreciate that stamp of public approval when we get it, and receiving this award was an honor.”

Hudak and his wife, Linda, flew to New Orleans in May to attend the awards presentations.

“Embracing Winter” was recorded entirely in Hudak’s home studio, with engineering and production assistance from Jon Lesher, a Martinez resident.

The CD also includes performances from several other local musicians. The album contains numerous traditional holiday songs, both well-known and obscure, along with four original compositions. All of the songs are piano based instrumentals

except the final track, “Remember The Child,” which showcases Hudak on lead vocals and fellow Clayton resident , Mary Mac Propersi, on harmony vocals.

“Bridging Textures,” Hudak’s previous CD, continues to receive steady airplay on satellite radio stations worldwide. It was co-produced by Will Ackerman, founder of Windham Hill Records, and is regarded as a classic recording.

A Clayton resident since 1997, Hudak is an accomplished performer, composer, and recording artist who continues to perform steadily in the Bay Area and around the United States. He has released six CD’s on his independently owned Brainstorm Records label and many of his original compositions are published with his Savvy Music Publishing Company (SESAC).

He was a music rights executive for ASCAP and SESAC for 16 years before returning to his artistic roots in 1996. He has lived and performed in Portland, Seattle, Los Angeles, Nashville and Pittsburgh, PA, though he plans to stay in the Bay Area going forward. While piano is his main instrument, he is also plays guitar.

Zone Music Reporter is a music magazine that reviews and tracks airplay for many “non-mainstream” genres of recorded music.

Page 17

MAKENZIE WERNHOLM

Civic Arts Education’s Dance Academy and Diablo Ballet combine to celebrate the magic of the season with a festive Winter Ballet Gala. Rich in holiday culture from around the world, the Winter Ballet Gala features an array of music and dance, both classical and contemporary, which embraces celebrations of all people and many countries.

The second half of the program will include “The Magic of the Nutcracker” featuring Diablo Ballet’s professional dancers Jennifer Dille (Sugar Plum Fairy) and Edward Stegge (Nutcracker Prince), as well as Bay Area performer Lewis Smith (Mother Ginger).

An accomplished dancer, Stegge has performed with major

ballet companies across the United States in such classics as “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Nutcracker,” and “The Little Prince.”

Dille performed with Eugene Ballet/Ballet Idaho, American Repertory Ballet and Peninsula Ballet Theatre before joining Inland Pacific Ballet in 2002 as a soloist. She made her debut with Diablo Ballet in March 2012 performing in “Dancing Miles” and “Fluctuating Hemlines.”

An Alamo resident, Smith has been performing in local theater for many years. “The first year I did Mother Ginger was around 2000 at the Village Theatre in Danville and my skirt could barely fit through the door,” recalls Smith. “One of the audience members approached our director after the show to tell her how glad she was that they were able to bring Mother Ginger back on stage after a hiatus of a few years, but that she had to confess that she had never seen such an ugly woman in her life. I guess I should take that as a compliment.”

The professional dancers will perform with Dance Academy students from Levels II, III, including Clayton’s Emily Payne, and the Intermediate and Advanced Professional Training program. “It’s wonderful experience for these young dancers to perform with such talented professional dancers, especially since many of them hope to have a professional career themselves,”

says program director Rebecca Berke.

The Winter Ballet Gala will be held Dec. 13 and 14 at Del Valle

Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Road in Walnut Creek. For more information and tickets, visit leshercenter.org or call 925-943-SHOW.

Make your plans now for The East Bay’s Favorite Holiday Show

The 28th Annual

Christmas Revels

Dec. 13-15, & Dec. 20-22

Features a cast of 65, period songs & dances, comedy, gorgeous costumes, & stories from many traditions to celebrate the Season.

Scottish Rite Theater, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.,

www.californiarevels.org or (510) 452-8800

Hardscapes Masonry Interlocking Pavers Drainage & Grading Retaining Walls

General auditions set for CTC 2014 season The newly formed Clayton Theatre Company, flush with the success of their inaugural show, “Robber Bridegroom,” will be auditioning performers for their 2014 season.

Hopefuls should come ready to audition with 32 bars of a

Broadway song (please provide music), a prepared monologue and a resume and headshot.

Auditions are set for Jan. 5 from noon to 5 and Jan. 6 and 7 from 7-10 p.m. at Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane in Clayton. Park in the

Onofre Gomez, owner, lic. #964834

back of the school and follow the signs to the auditions.

To download audition form go to ClaytonTheatreCompany.com. Call (925) 222-9106for appointment time or email claytontheatrecompany@comcast.net.

ConcreteByIronhorse.com Onofre is as professional as you can get, always on time, great explanations, and the work speaks for itself. I would definitely recommend Iron Horse Concrete to my family and friends.

- Kim Waraner, Waraner Tree Experts

We offer the Entire Package for your Holiday Party YOU’RE INVITED To host your holiday event at

Oakhurst Country Club Did you know you can plan an unbelievable holiday party for about the same cost as hosting it at a hotel or restaurant?

Holiday Party CALCULATOR

Visit our interactive Holiday Party Calculator to build your Holiday Event & see how affordable it is at

www.holidaypartycalculator.com Book Early and Save!

Contact our Private Event Director Janan Ali at 925.672.9737 ext. 217 for more information and to book your event.

Oakhurst Country Club 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton, CA

www.oakhurstcc.com

*Minimums and restrictions apply.

Cannot be combined with any other offer and on any previously booked events.

Events must occur between November 1, 2013 and December 31, 2013.

Page 18

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Check out our new schedule and register today!

Peel some fun out of holiday meals with artichokes DEBRA J. MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market

Visit us online and Sign up today!

Nearly 100 percent of all artichokes grown commercially in the United States are grown in California. Three-quarters of California’s total acreage lies within Monterey County where artichokes are grown year-round.

The California climate allows the artichokes to plump up and round out before reaching maturity and harvest. The spring and winter artichokes will be more conical in shape that their late spring cousins and many will have a more purplish tinge to their outer petals. They’re available at your local farmers’ market and

Ilima Heuerman, Founder

925.672.2995 1026 Oak Street, Ste. 102, Clayton www.levityfitness.com info@levityfitness.com

JUDITH MARSHALL

In 4 Days for Asking Price.

FASHION OVER 50

Expanded end unit with unobstructed view of rolling hills and beyond. Glassed-in back sunroom for additional living space. Conveniently located to many activities.

Offered at $349,000.

add color and texture to your holiday meals.

Look for fat, firm-looking buds with dense, tightly packed leaves of uniform dusty green.

Lots of black spots, tired color or open leaves indicate an older artichoke that will have a woody taste. When selecting an artichoke, pull back the central leaves and look at the heart. If there is no black inside, the artichoke is good. Artichokes are quite perishable. Use them as soon as possible. Refrigerate for no more than a week.

Artichokes are delicious served either hot or cold. But, most people like them warm. To eat, pull off outer petals one at a

time. Dip the base of the petal into a sauce – mayonnaise and melted butter are traditional favorites. Then pull the leaf through your teeth to remove the pulpy section. Discard the remaining petal.

Continue until you reach the heart of the matter where you will spoon out the fuzzy center at the base and discard. The heart, or bottom, of the artichoke is entirely edible and the best part – definitely worth all the work to get there.

TO STEAM Place prepared artichoke on a rack above an inch or two of boiling water. Cover and steam 25 to

45 minutes, or until petal near the center pulls out easily.

ON THE GRILL Spread the artichoke leaves apart gently. Sprinkle with salt and pour oil and vinegar over them.

See artichokes, page 20

Even the best looking look better with the right makeup

JUST SOLD

2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH ROSSMOOR HOME

December 6, 2013

As we age everything changes; our outlook, our bodies, even our complexions. With age our skin tone tends to fade, as well as the color of our hair and eyebrows. Therefore, makeup takes on an even more important role in our overall appearance. It can either make or break the way we look.

Too much makeup can add years to your face. Makeup should enhance your features, not overpower them. Too little makeup or using neutrals like beige or taupe can leave you looking washed out, while dark shades or neon brights can make

you look to harsh. As we get older, some of the best color choices are soft, fresh hues like berry, rose, pink and apricot to help define your features and add vibrancy.

To find your middle ground, you have to experiment. Start by looking in the mirror with a bare face. What don’t you like? If you don’t like your eyes, try wearing a bright lipstick to distract attention away from them. Or you can practice lining your eyes to make them look more defined, but stay away from black liner. It can actually make your eyes look smaller. Remember light colors lift so use a bone eye shadow all over your lid and under your brows.

If you don’t like the shape of your lips, cover them with foundation and use a lip pencil to correct the lip-line. If lipstick

78-YEAR-OLD FORMER Miss America, Lee Meriwether, accents her blue eyes and chooses a berry stain for her lips.

feathering is a problem, use a clear lip liner to keep color in place. If your lips are too thin, and fillers are not for you, cheat a bit by lining the outer structur-

al ridge of your lips rather than the color portion.

For spare eyebrows, fill them in with Votre Vu brow definer (votrevu.com) to make them look full without the heavy, flat look of a pencil. And always brush brows up. Use clear mascara to keep them in place.

To enhance your cheekbones, don’t use a powder or bronzer to contour. Instead apply a slightly deeper shade of foundation in the hollows of your cheeks and blend, blend, blend. It gives a softness that doesn’t exist with contour powder.

No matter whether you’re 16 or 70, a stained lip and flushed cheek look beautiful.

Live long and pester!

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

December 6, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 19

With planning, your garage can be more than just a black hole

“It’s like Christmas every week” -A happy Doorstep member

gym. Create a workout space with all the necessary gym equipment you desire. Yoga mats, weights or cardio machines, the garage has the perfect square footage to create the gym of your dreams. Include lighting that can be dimmed, appropriate paint colors to create an inspiring workout space, and floor coverings either underneath the workout equipment or a space for you to stretch.

JENNIFER LEISCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR For some of us, the garage is a neat and orderly space where we store seasonal items in perfectly placed bins, keep the pet food in air tight canisters with decorative scoops hanging nearby, and park one or two cars where the cement floor is covered by interlocking PVC tiles to keep the floor as clean from oil and debris. For the rest of us, well, the garage is more of an out-of-sight, out-of-mind storage space that we’re afraid to enter for fear we may not come out.

If you fall under the second category, don’t fret. Half of the battle here is truthfully acknowledging the fact that your garage is unorganized. The second half of the battle is knowing what steps to take in order to create a garage that is actually useful.

So, get your gloves on, start sorting through your treasures, and let’s think strategically about your garage.

CABINETRY AND STORAGE Cabinetry is very important when designing a garage.

Whether your cabinetry consists of closed cabinet doors or open shelving, work with the space you have. Every vertical inch of wall space is precious square footage.

Just like your kitchen cabinetry, think about how you’d like to live in your garage. Do you need a bank of multiple sized drawers for everything from nuts and bolts to hand tools and electrical cords? How about an armoire for larger garden tools? Or maybe

just a wall of open shelves that houses a specific sized bin, five rows up and 10 columns wide.

Whether you work with a cabinet builder or contractor to create a personalized layout, or purchase modular cabinetry from DIY home stores, think outside of the box to create a cabinet layout that works for your storage and project needs.

MULTIPURPOSE PLAY SPACE The garage doesn’t have to be a dark and dreary place to store the lawn mower and boxes of tax receipts from the last decade or so. Consider turning your garage into a space that is useful and practical for your life.

Do you need an outdoor space for the kids to play when it rains? What if you were to paint the garage walls a cheerful color or two, create a storage wall for bats and balls and jump ropes, and even paint a race track on the cement floor for the kids to participate in the Indy 500.

What about creating a wine “cellar?” Designate a corner in the garage that is perhaps a secondary party prep space. Install one or two wine coolers (one for white, one for red) and next to the coolers an ice machine. The upper cabinets could house all of your

wine accessories from ice buckets to decanters.

You can also turn a corner, or all, of your garage into a home

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

A local service bringing organic, in-season produce straight from local farms to your doorstep.

Sign up today.

PE

IN ND

G

L SPECIA

f f O % 0 1 ton for Clay only s t n reside

Remodeling Specialist Kitchens Bathrooms Windows Mouldings Decks Siding Painting interior & exterior Kevin Schmidt, Clayton Resident Family Owned and Operated license 962284

925-822-5144 738 Bloching Circle, Clayton

Fabulous updated single-story 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,796 sq ft home located on 11,550 corner lot in desirable Dana Hills. Spacious Living Room, Formal Dining Room and cozy Family Room. New carpets throughout and new granite countertops in kitchen.

Entertainer's paradise with lush landscaping, sparkling pool and spa. So much more...

Offered at

$615,000 Call Christine today!

Winter % Flooring Special all flooring materials

10 OFF

DiabloViewConstruction.com

Christine Geddes-Sinclaire Realtor – Team Associate Alain Pinel – Estates by Wendy TEAM Direct: 925.286.7593 | EFax: 925.226.4735 Christine@CGSrealtor.com CGSrealtor.com | apr.com | estatesbywendy.com LIC#01425653

ACTIVE LISTINGS

120 Norman Ave, Concord

$319,000

3 Bedroom, 2 bathroom, Approx. 1601 sq. ft.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

Judy Ruskus Broker Associate DRE# 00775531

1625 Buchanan Rd.

$850,000

925-980-8301 ajruskus@gmail.com

Commercial Lot. Approx.

2000 sq. ft. on a 5-acre lot.

Listing agent: Rula Masannat

5951 Glenarms Dr, Oakland

$699,000

Listing agent: Doug Van Riper

Doug Van Riper Broker Associate

PENDING

13175 Clairepointe Way, Oakland $699,000 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,603 sq. ft.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

DRE# 01883875

925-787-6571 doug@dougvanriper.com

SOLD: Buyer Representation

2 El Portal Ct. Clayton $565,000 (Matt Mazzei)

1544 Bailey Rd. Concord $215,000 (Rula Masannat) Please drop by and donate a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots drive.

mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959

925-693-0757 (Main)

Matt Mazzei, Jr. Broker/Owner DRE# 01881269

925-766-6745 mazzeirealty@yahoo.com

6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton

925-693-0752 (Fax)

Estates by Wendy Team

Lic #075601529

Helping Buyers and Sellers since 2002

Page 20

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 6, 2013

Thrilling cyclamen is holiday treat

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

red to accent your holidays from Christmas through Valentine’s Day. Latina Deep Magenta is a dark rich wine color. Laser White is a crisp, winter white color. It makes a wonderful compliment with the reds and wines of the garden bed or container.

Proper planting instructions should be followed with installing cyclamen. First rule with planting cyclamen is take as much of the growing medium off of your new plant as you can.

Notice I said growing medium and not soil. Plants that are typically used and abused are grown in a light, peat-like mix that allows roots to grow very fast.

This medium, however, isn’t good for the long term. It can be soggy and slimy if over-watered, and is very hard to re-wet if allowed to dry out. You will have to remove the growing medium,

‘Tis the season for cyclamen.

This color spot fulfills our need for flowers in a garden or container from fall through midspring. Cyclamen are extremely hardy, and simple to grow.

Unfortunately, this perennial is used and abused. They’re popped into our entryway containers, and used as decoration in the home. Then they’re tossed into the compost or green waste at the first signs of spring. This is no way to treat this tuberous perennial.

Cyclamen flowers have upswept petals in various colors and a nose that always points down. Flower heads are held on sturdy, fleshy stems. They have five petals that model a cup shape. A flower rosette forms at the base of this plant’s tuber, and uncurls itself towards the sky.

The leaves of cyclamen are interesting with their varied markings of cream on green. Most cyclamen will reach 10- to 12-inches tall and about 1-foot wide.

Cyclamen are grouped in series. Latinia and Maxora are both reliable families of cyclamen. The Maxora series of cyclamen is very familiar looking and its hardiness to frost makes it a great Clayton Valley installation.

Maxora has a large flower head on very compact, thick stems.

Maxora Bright Red is the perfect

and replant using soil. If you are installing into a container, use a professional blend of potting soil. If planting into the ground, use a planting mix.

Fertilize your cyclamen during the winter months with a water soluble formula. Use 3-2020, or 2-10-10 for best results.

Cyclamen are shade-loving perennials. They deserve to thrive in your Clayton Valley landscape.

Don’t use and abuse them.

Don’t discard them. Transplant from your containers, or borders to the shade when they finish blooming. Cyclamen die back as summer warms and the soil dries, and they re-emerge in the fall to thrill you all over again.

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

artichokes, from page 18 IN THE POT Stand prepared artichoke in deep saucepan or pot with three inches of boiling water. Add lemon juice, oil or seasonings, if desired. Cover and boil gently for 25 to 40 minutes, or until petal near the center pulls out easily.

Place the artichokes, stem side down, on a rack and grill them over coals. The heat should be gentle so that the artichokes cook through without burning. Turn artichokes on side, turning frequently, for 30 minutes. Before serving the artichokes, remove the charred outer leaves.

r Shelte s Kitten for ion Adopt

Since 1981

Featured Products Precise Dog Food

$

30# bag or larger

8 off

per bag

Reg. Price starts at $52.99

Blue Buffalo Dog Food 30# bag or larger

$

5 off

per bag

Reg. Price starts at $59.99

Events at Rodie’s VIP PetCare Clinic Sat. Dec. 28,

10:00 - 11:30 am

Competitive prices on dog and cat vaccinations

Store Specials Outdoor Dog Kennel

Regular Price

Rodie's Price

$

$

499.99

449.99

5' x10' With Cover

Seresto Flea & Tick Collars

$

64.99

$

59.99

$

64.99

$

$

29.99

$

Lasts 8 months

Nutro Natural Choice Lamb & Rice Dog Food, #30

54.99

While supplies last.

SafeChoice Special Care

27.99

Nutritional supplemented Horse Feed

3.59

Propane (per gallon)

3.39

Open 7 days Mon - Fri 10 to 6 Sat 9 to 6 Sun 10 to 4

Our passion is pets.

www.rodiesfeed.com (925) 672-4600

8863 Marsh Creek Rd. in Clayton