DEC 12 Clayton Pioneer 2003

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

December 12, 2003

925.672.0500

City Council elects new mayor and vice mayor

BY TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

The holiday is

Christmas

BY TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

It’s beginning to look a lot like— what???

The “politically correct” winds that blow through December seem to have blown the “C” word nearly off the page.

The “holiday” that calls up Santa, reindeer, candy canes and shopping is “Christmas.” As in Merry Christmas!

On December 25th, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, not the birth of “Holiday.” Regrettably, in an attempt not to offend non-Christians, we substitute the generic word “holiday” for “Christmas,” diluting the importance of this monumental birthday.

Regardless of what religious tradition one observes, or not, whether you embrace Jesus as a religious figure, or not, this man came, and he made history.

Jesus’ teachings are relevant for all humans, whether Christian, Jew, Muslim, Buddhist, atheist or other. We can do a lot worse than to keep in mind a few of his simple words.

Love one another. (Luckily, he did not require us all to LIKE each other – that would be hard). Treat the other guy the way you want to be treated. Forgive those who hurt you (now, that one’s REALLY hard).

One doesn’t have to look too closely at the world’s religions to find these teachings, in some form, somewhere in all of them. Sadly, while some of the worst butchers in history were religious men who killed other religious men in the name of someone’s god, it doesn’t take much digging into their dogma to find that we are all truly more alike than we are different. Family, freedom, friendship, food, shelter and (just ask any teenager), peace are the basic desires of every human I know.

So, as we approach the “holiday” at warp speed, take a moment to remember the man, and the message, that started it all, “Peace on earth, goodwill to all.”

(What a concept!)

From all of us at the Pioneer, Merry, Merry Christmas!

At the Dec. 2 meeting of the Clayton city council, the mayor’s gavel passed from Pete Laurence to Julie Pierce with much good natured banter, and a new park for Laurence.

Presenting the outgoing mayor with a scale model of the downtown park, complete with cow and gazebo, the new mayor joked, “This is as close to a park as you’re likely to get anytime soon.” The miniature park was created and assembled by assistant to the city manager, Laura Hoffmeister.

Clayton city council members are elected by popular vote by those who live within the city limits.

Each year in December, the council elects a sitting member to serve as mayor for the coming year, and another to serve as vice mayor. Typically, a council member progresses from vice mayor to mayor.

Gregg Manning was elected vice mayor for 2004.

Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer Each council member, including the CLAYTON CITY COUNCIL from left, Bill Walcutt, Vice Mayor Gregg Manning, Mayor Julie mayor, receives the same $300 per month Pierce, Pete Laurence and Dave Shuey stipend.

“It’s going to be a difficult year” Julie Pierce moved to Clayton in 1984. She became active in local politics in 1987 when she was appointed to the Planning Commission. She served as mayor in 1995. Pierce also chairs the Contra Costa Transportation Authority and is the city’s delegate to the Shaping Our Future Policy Committee. Pierce chairs this regional committee which is looking at future growth issues and the impact of changing demographics on the area.

In an exclusive interview with the Pioneer, Mayor Pierce talks about the budget issues facing the city next year and shares her vision for the city.

What do you see as the greatest challenge facing Clayton in 2004? $$$ Money!

No question. Everything we have coming up this next year is related to the budget--from the cost of landscape maintenance, to keeping the lights on, to keeping employees employed, to how to build the downtown park that everyone wants and then how to maintain it if we can get it built. It’s going to be a very difficult year. Just how difficult will depend on whether the state takes even more money away. If the state takes more money away, we will be cutting into the structure of our organization—to the bone. Ten years ago, we cut fat, this past two years, we cut muscle. The next revenue cuts go to the bone, and that cripples the patient.

We can’t make those cuts without real

injury to the city.

Clayton has an annual General Fund budget of $3.48M. This year we cut 19% from our budget to accommodate the state take-aways. If the state continues to hold the backfill from the Vehicle License Fees (VLF) for the past two quarters, we’ll lose $443K of the funds we have budgeted to pay for city services this year. That’s another 14% of our budget. If the state compounds that by taking away the VLF (a constitutionally protected local revenue source) we stand to lose $662K next year. That’s a 22% hit. Nobody’s budget can survive a 22% hit on top of a 19% cut without a lot of pain. So, right now, we don’t have answers.

We have labor negotiations coming up with all of our employees this year.

We all would like to have more police

officers and more public works folks.

All of our employees deserve to be well compensated they are tremendous!

But the reality is that our General Fund is stretched very thin now, and we cannot take Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer ongoing operCLAYT0N’S NEW MAYOR, Julie Pierce ating costs out of reserves. It’s a balancing act.

See Pierce, page 6

Three is NOT a lucky number for CVHS Eagles

BY JAY BEDECARRE Clayton Pioneer

Sports is all about numbers. You keep score with numbers. The players have numbers on their uniforms.

Competition sites have numbers demarcating the playing field.

Records, streaks and milestones are all measured in numbers.

For Clayton Valley High School, and the Eagles 2003 football team in particular, “three” was definitely not their number.

It wasn’t “third time’s the charm” but rather “bad news comes in threes” when it came to assessing 2003 Clayton Valley Eagles football THE AGONY OF DEFEAT.Clayton Valley High football coach Herc Pardi consoles linemen Ryan Cassity (55) and Elliott Jaggers (66) after they lost the NCS championship game in three overtimes.

Photo by Jay Bedecarre/Clayton Pioneer

and their final game, the North Coast Section 3A football championship last Friday at Diablo Valley College before over 3000 spectators.

The record books forever will record the final score as Las Lomas of Walnut Creek 37, Clayton Valley 36 with the Knights winning their second straight NCS football title. Some listings of the result will have a notation that the game included three overtimes and that’s where that number raises its ugly head for the first, or perhaps last, time in regards the CVHS football team of ‘03.

Three shows up everywhere in reviewing the Eagles’ season and that final game...and it’s almost always in a negative light.

Three—number of games Clayton Valley lost in 2003 football season (against a school record-tying 10 wins).

Three—number of NCS football championship games Clayton Valley has played in (and lost).

Three—NCS major team championship games CVHS teams have played in during past 19 months, including two NCS baseball games at Oakland Coliseum and last week’s NCS football title decider at DVC (all losses for the Eagles).

Three—turnovers Eagles suffered from the end

of the first half through the early part of third quarter against Las Lomas that stifled any chance of the Eagles from scoring while placing the defense back on its heels.

Three—number of times LL successfully ran essentially the same slip screen pass play in the left flat during overtime to score two touchdowns and setup a third.

Three—number of overtime periods in the CVLL championship game, with the Eagles losing despite scoring a touchdown in all three periods.

Three—number of points CVHS was short of a perfect 2003 season after losing a heartbreaker 7-6 to Antioch in the final minutes due to a missed extra point and then two overtime losses to Pittsburg and Las Lomas after tying those games in regulation time.

It was over 12 months ago, after Clayton Valley finished its second straight disappointing season with a three-win (that lousy number again!), seven-loss record, that this season’s senior players (then juniors) came to coach Herc Pardi of Clayton and vowed 2003 would be different. The players immediately began preparing for this season with hard work in off-season conditioning and See CVHS, page 8

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Novicky-Martinez Nuptials

Sub-s t antial

Re-opening Celebration!

Joyce Novicky of Clayton and Santiago “Santi” Martinez of Concord exchanged vows in a Nuptial Mass at St. Bonaventure’s Catholic Church on November 15, officiated by Father Richard Mangini.

Joyce is the daughter of the late Joseph and Florence Novicky of Manville, New Jersey. Santiago is the son of Ramon and Mary Martinez of Concord.

The bride walked down the aisle to an original composition written by the groom for the entrance processional and sung by the St. Bonaventure Choir.

As she entered the church, on the arms of her aunt and uncle, she was hearing the music for the first time. Following the exchange of vows and communion, the groom sang “I Will Be There” (by Steven Curtis Chapman) to his bride, leaving not one dry eye in the church.

The formal, double ring ceremony included a celebration of the groom’s Filipino culture in a “cord and veil” ritual, in which the bride and groom were bound together by a “lasso” and shrouded in a veil.

The bride’s dress was a floor length white beaded sleeveless satin gown with a sweetheart neckline covered by a longsleeved lace jacket. Maid of honor and the six bridesmaids were in floor length satin gowns and jackets in a deep eggplant color. The three flower girls wore white dresses with headpieces of fresh flowers.

The men were in black tuxedos with gray vests and striped Ascots.

This popular couple met six years ago, at St. Bonaventure’s, where both are members of the

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Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer

JOYCE NOVICKY AND SANTIAGO MARTINEZ St. Bonaventure’s Sunday Morning Choir. Santi and Joyce are familiar figures in the local performing community.

Together with Clayton soprano, Roxanne Pardi, they make up the vocal trio, Vintage.

Roxanne served as cantor for the Nuptial Mass.

The bride’s Maid of Honor was her friend Linda Ludwig of Clayton, and the groom’s Best Man was Donny Fisi of Concord. Also standing up with Santi, were six groomsmen and a ring bearer.

The wedding was followed by a lively reception at Holy Trinity Cultural Center in Moraga, where 220 guests, many of them family and friends from New Jersey, sat down to a dinner catered by Scott’s Seafood of Walnut Creek.

The bride’s Polish heritage was celebrated in both song and

dance with guests dancing the polka to traditional accordion music, played by the bride’s uncle. The bride and her cousins also sang several Polish folk songs.

Joyce attended schools in New Jersey, graduating from Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey.

She moved to California nine years ago and owns Choyce Events, an event planning and consulting service.

Santiago attended schools in Concord, graduating from De La Salle High School and California State University, Hayward. “Santi”, as friends and family know him, is employed as an analyst by Paradigm Health in Concord.

The couple honeymooned on Maui and will live in Clayton.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year from the

Van Fleet-B Bronson Team

Thank y ou, o ne and all, for y our continued s upport We are proud supporters of the Children’s Miracle Network. This alliance of premier hospitals in North America provides state-of-the-art medical treatment and compassionate care to all children, without regard to their parent’s income or ability to pay.

In support of this worthy cause, The Van Fleet-Bronson Team will make a donation in the name of our client for every sale.

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December 12, 2003

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

CLASSIFIED ADS P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580

HAVE YOU RECEIVED A COURT Judgement and can’t collect?

Direct Action Judgement Recovery, (925) 673-8719 www.darereocvery.com. Member of the California Association of Judgement Professionals.

MEATS Willie Bird turkeys $1.99 lb.

Honey Glaze hams 4.99 lb.

Boneless hams 3.19 lb Also: Prime rib, boneless prime rib, pork or lamb crown roast, duck, quail, geese, live Maine lobster, fresh cooked crabs, etc.

THE PIONEER IS LOOKING for a few “neighborhood reporters,” to report neighborhood events (block parties, new babies, wild animal sightings, etc.) and to bring issues to our attention (street work needed, traffic problems, environmental issues, etc.). Must be willing to work for gratitude!

You bring us the news and we’ll write it. Contact the Clayton Pioneer, 672-0500 or e-mail tamara@claytonpioneer.com

Dear Editor: I live close by the park were all the wild pigs have been digging, and I have seen the damage that they have caused. I have an idea of how to stop these pigs and make money to fix the damage. I suggest tags be sold to bow hunters to hunt the pigs, and then sell the meat or have a big BBQ in downtown Clayton. The profit from the hunter’s tags and tickets to the BBQ could be used to repair the damage they have made to the park. Bow hunting instead of rifles would be a better way to hunt since it’s so close to homes.

Davis Menez 12 years old Clayton resident

-- Family Owned Diablo Foods Founder Ed Stokes

For youur holiday partties

HELP WANTED

Letters to the editor Dear Editor: My recent comments regarding Shaping Our Future (SOF) growth issues (as quoted recently in other publications.

Ed) have clearly been taken out of context, reflecting a position directly opposite from the truth.

I am committed to the vision of Shaping Our Future, which is working to curb suburban sprawl and preserve open space by focusing new housing growth in urban core areas, near existing job centers and transportation corridors. We should be bringing jobs to the areas already rich in housing to reduce congestion on our roadways and highways. Never have I suggested any jurisdiction should not do its fair share of affordable housing, including Clayton. Rather, I feel the majority of all new growth should be concentrated in those areas of the county that are better suited to provide jobs and transportation access.

Clayton is almost a cul-desac on the suburban fringe nine miles from the closest freeway and with one bus route for public transportation. Surely this is not the best place for substantial new growth and job centers!

The City of Clayton recognizes that each jurisdiction has a responsibility to provide its assigned “fair share” of affordable housing. Clayton has always taken that responsibility very seriously and has always met that obligation, not just on paper but also through actual construction of the required units.

I believe very strongly that all jurisdictions should provide a range of housing for all income levels. I want our kids, police officers, teachers, grocery clerks, service workers and their families should to be able to live in the town where they grew up and/or work.

Clayton should and will continue to provide its fair share of affordable housing. It is just as appropriate that we all support the majority of the county’s new growth in areas closer to existing and future transportation hubs and jobs.

Julie Pierce, Council Member City of Clayton

“Sink your teeth into our Old Fashioned Butcher Shop!”

SERVICES AVAILABLE

Tamara and Robert Steiner, Co-Publishers Tamara Steiner, Editor Jill Bedecarre, Assistant Editor; Display Advertising Jay Bedecarre, Sports Rafi Hashemi, Graphic Design

Page 3

DELI Boar's Head Oven Gold turkey Boar's Head Bavarian Ham Cranberry w/imported brandy Diablo Food's Traditional Gravy 24 oz.

Stoke's Home Style Stuffing Mix, 16 oz.

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Before school 7-8 a.m., after school until 6 p.m. Homework help and many activities. two licensed providers on site.

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at Mt. Diablo Elementary, Rooms 38-41. Pre-school and K-5 childcare. Licensed and professional staff provide a safe, caring and active environment to meet your childcare needs. Preschool: 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., M-F, call 6731488. School age, K-5: 7 a.m.-6 p.m., M-F, call 672-0388.

The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers.

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.

We will not print letters submitted anonymously.

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At Diablo Foods we have a new look and new tastes in our recently remodeled Shopping Center!

Feast your eyes on our expanded Meat and Deli Department featuring

USDA Choice and Prime Beef.

Wander through our new expanded selection of Fine Wines, and visit our fresh new Floral Shop.

VEHICLES CAR FOR SALE, OLDSMOBILE 1991 , Cutlass, two-door, V-6,

air conditioning, power steering, brakes and driver seat, low mileage, smogged. $2,000. Call 925-672-5154

Only 4.2 miles from the center of Clayton!

4116 Concord Blvd., Concord Dana Plaza 925-687-2111

Here are the winners of the CBCA HOLIDAY HOME DECORATING CONTEST

2 blocks past Concord High School

The Pioneer: It’s your paper

DETATCHED HOMES: 1st Place-Anthony Orteaga, 1054 Feather Circle 2nd Place-John and Natalie Sharapata, 7002 Molluk Way 3rd Place-Finn Birden, 1066 Feather Circle

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING CATEGORIES Jobs Child and Adult Care Items For Sale Vehicles For Sale Garage and Yard Sales Real Estate Office Space Homes For Rent Pets and Horses Services Lost and Found Personal Business Opportunities

ATTACHED HOME: 1st Place - Claire and Idonna Tyon, 156 Mt. Etna Drive

Pet Portraits with Santa Last chance!

Dec. 14, 10 am to 2 pm Regina's All Breed Pet Grooming

HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517.

Or, call the Clayton Pioneer,

Under New Ownership

672-8270 5400-A7 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord In the Clayton Valley Shopping Center

"We use all natural and organic products in a loving environment."

925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone.

Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above.

The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.

All classified ads must be paid for in advance.

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form

for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers.

As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date.

Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion.

Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.”

You can also e-mail your letter to tamara@clayton pioneer.com

GEORGE VUJNOVICH Broker

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Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

georgevujnovich.com Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty

ADDRESS

1755 Indian Wells Way 50 La Honda Way 6 Long Creek Circle 1813 Yolanda Circle 916 Arrowhead Terrace 6031 Golden Eagle 1206 Easley Drive 5171 Keller Ridge Drive 882 Diablo Downs Drive 590 Mt. Dell Drive 339 Saclan Terrace

PRICE

$

374,000 665,000 325,000 588,000 470,000 719,000 485,000 649,000 1,150,000 445,000 451,000

SALE DATE

11/26/03 11/26/03 11/21/03 11/21/03 11/20/03 11/20/03 11/19/03 11/14/03 11/14/03 11/13/03 11/13/03

SF

1235 2390 966 2398 1939 2854 2188 2,843 3,630 1,926 1,749

BED/BATH

2/2 4/2.5 2/2 5/2.5 3/2.5 4/3 4/2.5 4/3 4/4.5 4/2.5 3/2.5

ADDRESS

6025 Golden Eagle 22 Mountaire 91 Regency Drive 201 Southbrook Drive 3 Mt. Wilson Way 5694 Clayton Road 18 Rhine Court 90 Mt. McKinley Court 415 Chupcan Place 273 Mountaire 5575 Southbrook

PRICE

$ 599,000 759,950 610,000 629,500 325,000 459,500 559,900 565,000 468,000 589,000 537,500

SALE DATE

11/10/03 11/07/03 11/06/03 11/06/03 11/03/03 11/03/03 11/03/03 11/03/03 10/31/03 10/31/03 10/29/03

SF

2,395 2,960 2,032 2,010 966 1,403 1,776 1,919 1,939 2,481 1,862

ADDRESS

BED/BATH

4/3 5/3 4/2.5 4/2.5 2/2 3/2 4/2 4/2 3/2.5 5/3 4/2.5

172 Brandywine Place 4110 Morgan Territory 505 Suisun Court 309 Windmill Canyon 1169 Shell Lane 413 Hummingbird Place 107 Crow Place 238 Jeffry Ranch 510 Mt. Davidson Court 1108 Oakwood Circle 5471 Tara Drive

All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed

PRICE

$ 872,500 1,060,000 468,900 630,000 405,000 559,000 597,500 590,000 700,000 998,000 439,000

SALE DATE

10/29/03 10/29/03 10/23/03 10/22/03 10/20/03 10/16/03 10/16/03 10/10/03 10/09/03 10/09/03 10/08/03

SF

3,335 3,880 1,939 2,467 1,355 1,877 1,877 2,005 2,960 3,082 1,436

BED/BATH

4/2.5 4/3.5 3/2.5 4/3 3/2.5 3/2 3/2.5 4/2.5 5/3 4/2.5 3/2

Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 12, 2003

New Year’s Eve-Clayton Style The theme for the first alcohol-free, New Year’s Eve celebration in the new Clayton Community Gym is “New Year’s Eve, Clayton Style.”

“Our goal is to assure that the event is a safe, fun family experience for everyone!”, according to co-chair and Vice Mayor Gregg Manning.”

“The City has long desired to create a New Year’s Eve family event, however inclement

weather potential always created logistic issues in plans for an outdoor downtown event. With the completion of the new Community Gym, we now have the perfect venue for initiating this event for the community,” stated co-chair and Mayor Julie Pierce.

The concept is similar to other “First Night” activities in some 200 cities nationwide that usher in the New Year in a non-

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who want to stay and play at the gym. A big screen projection family movie area, separate sports TV and a crazy slipper contest will also be offered.

Residents are asked to bring a pillow and flashlight if they would like to participate in pillow polo and flashlight tag. Food concessions will also be available.

The free event starts 5 p.m. and continues through the midnight hour ushering in 2004 on the big gymnasium scoreboards.

License #705148

Plant a radish, get a radish, not a Brussels sprout. That’s why I like vegetables, you know what they’re about! The Fantastiks The other day, as he was dutifully choking down a little green orb, my husband asked what fiend devised Brussels sprouts.

My search for an answer (and a better recipe) led me to more information than I really needed, and it also introduced me to a related member of the cabbage family, the kohlrabi. Both of these vegetables are really quite delightful, especially when they are thoughtfully prepared.

Brussels Sprouts. Much as you might expect from their appearance, the Brussels sprout is a variety of cabbage. It was developed in Belgium in the late 1700s, although some sources say they’ve been around for 400 to 500 years. That still makes it a “new” vegetable by most food historians’ measure. Popular in Northern Europe and especially Great Britain, the Brussels sprout is not common (or highly appreciated) in America. It first appeared here in Thomas Jefferson’s garden around 1800.

Local gardeners beware!

N E W Y E A R IN A FR ROCKER E I ROCK I N N H E E BELLI TO T

Brussels sprouts need a long cool growing season, so plant late in the summer. The tiny sprouts grow on long stems under large long-stemmed leaves. They hybridize easily with other cabbage species such as broccoli, kale and cauliflower so cross-pollination should be avoided.

These earthy, nutty, and slightly bitter veggies are full of carotene (an antioxidant), Vitamins B and C and loads of fiber. Look for a tightly closed head with good green color about 1” in diameter. Avoid any that are yellowing, as they will be very bitter. Some stores have the entire stalk where you can pick the mini-cabbages as needed.

French cooking à la bruxelloise means to garnish roasted meats—particularly pork—with braised Brussels sprouts, endive, chateau potatoes and a Madeira sauce. Informal recipes for Brussels sprouts include steaming, tossing with butter, nuts or bacon. I made a very palatable side dish the other night of steamed sprouts (steam until tender when pierced with knife), walnuts and butter: place the cooked sprouts, butter and nuts into a dry pan and toss until the vegetables and nuts are coated and butter is brown.

Brussels sprouts are good with caramelized onion or shallot, and caraway seed; dill, curry

Receive an exclusive BELLINI GLIDER ROCKER (Model #10970)

There will also be special free commemorative t-shirts for the first 300 attendees.

Clayton New Year’s Eve is a non-profit event that relies on the generous support of the local business community.

This year’s sponsors include Clayton Business and Community Association, Mt. Diablo Region YMCA, Pleasant Hill Bayshore Disposal and the City of Clayton.

Although the planning for this event is carried out by mem-

bers of the Steering Committee, the implementation of activities during the night depends on scores of volunteers and sponsors.

Volunteers are needed for a few hours or for the entire event.

Volunteers for December 31 will receive their own commemorative T-shirt. If you are interested in helping out, or being a sponsor, please call Clayton Community Gym at 889-1600.

No Dessert Until You Eat Your Veggies!

Quality fresh flowers and roses Unique sympathy arrangements Green and blooming plants Very special dish gardens Balloon bouquets Weddings www.ftd.com/claytonflowers WIRE SERVICE SPECIALISTS Major credit cards honored

alcoholic environment.

This year’s inaugural celebration will offer many activities. Scheduled events include roller hockey, indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball, family tournaments, music and dancing. For the younger set there will be a child watch area and kinder gym activities. For the sleepy tikes there will be space set aside for taking naps, just bring along their sleeping bags, or blankets and there will be supervised child care for parents

made by

with the purchase of a Bellini crib, changing table and an additional piece of CASE furniture during the month of December.

FOR

THOUGHT

powder and nutmeg are nice flavor enhancers. Another recipe calls for quickly sautéing shredded sprouts: Shredded Sprout Sauté 1 lb Brussels sprouts 2 Tbsp butter 1 Tbsp water ¼ tsp kosher salt ¼ tsp nutmeg ¼ tsp white pepper Trim the outer leaves and ends of the Brussels sprouts. Cut them in half, lengthwise through the stem and thinly slice. Over medium high heat, melt the butter and sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they just begin to caramelize. Add the water and stir until sprouts are tender but still crisp. Stir in salt, nutmeg and white pepper and serve.

Kohlrabi, the German name for this relatively obscure vegetable (kohl—cabbage, rab—

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turnip) sounds quite exotic. But it won’t win any beauty contests— although it looks like a root vegetable, it is really a fleshy bulbous stem that protrudes just above ground.

Of European origin, kohlrabi, a member of the cabbage/mustard family, is widely enjoyed in Germany, Russia, Israel and Hungary. Even the Chinese incorporate gai laarn tau in northern cuisine and South Asians include ganth gobhi or knol-khol in their dishes.

In American markets, green and reddish purple varieties can be found. Choosing a small bulb (less than 3” in diameter) will be the most tender and sweet, as larger bulbs tend to be woody, fibrous and bitter. Low in calories but high in Vitamin C and potassium, kohlrabi is eaten raw in salads or cooked. The flavor of the bulb is variously described as similar to cucumber, radish or broccoli.

Elaborate recipes calling for stuffed or creamed kohlrabi can be found—and it is very good with nutmeg, celery seed or caraway seed—but a simple dish might help introduce you to this vegetable.

Kohlrabi and Carrot In Warm Vinaigrette 2 kohlrabi (2” in dia) peeled, julienned 1 large carrot, julienned 2 Tbsp canola oil 2 tsp white wine vinegar 2 tsp honey 1 Tbsp chopped green onion salt and pepper to taste Remove and discard top ½” (the woody top) of the kohlrabi and julienne the rest of the bulb.

Combine with carrot and 1 Tbsp water in microwave-safe dish and cover tightly. Microwave on high for 4 minutes, stir, recover, and microwave another 3 minutes.

Combine the vinaigrette ingredients, microwave 1 minute and toss cooked vegetables with the warm dressing.

December 12, 2003

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

What is a seller “rent-back” agreement?

A seller rent-back is a provision in a purchase contract that allows the sellers to continue to live in their old home for a period of time after the buyers have closed. The sellers rent the home from the buyers for a length of time that’s mutually agreed upon.

The cost of renting back is negotiable. But it’s usually equal to the buyer’s principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI), prorated on a per diem basis. Make sure that the property tax proration is based on the buyers’ projected property taxes and not on the sellers’ taxes which could be considerably less.

Buyers who are short of the cash necessary to close should specify in the purchase agreement that the sellers pay rent in advance at closing. This way rent money can be used to offset some of the buyers’ closing costs.

Seller rent-backs are common in today’s market. Most homeowners need to sell their current home in order to buy another one. A rent-back allows the sellers the opportunity to move directly to their next home without having to incur the cost or inconvenience of making an interim move to a temporary rental while they find another house to buy.

Although a rent-back may

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ESTATE

seem to only favor the seller, most buyers would prefer a purchase with a seller rent-back to a contract that’s contingent upon the seller finding a new home. At least with a rent-back the buyers know they have a home. They just won’t be able to move in on the closing date.

Make sure there’s a time limit to any rent-back arrangement you negotiate with the sellers.

Don’t leave it open-ended. Also make sure that your rent-aftersale agreement, which should always be a written agreement, includes a provision for the sellers to continue to pay for utilities and to maintain the property during their rental period. The occupancy agreement should specify that the sellers carry insurance to cover their belongings. The buyers’ new homeowner’s policy will go into effect at closing.

This will cover the real property

but not the sellers’ personal property. If the sellers won’t insure their belongings, be sure they sign a hold harmless agreement relieving you of any responsibility for their possessions.

First-time buyers, who are renting, can usually accommodate a seller rent-back because they can continue to rent until the seller delivers possession to them. This can give a first-time buyer an advantage in negotiations, particularly if there is a competing offer from a buyer who has sold another home and needs to take possession by a certain date.

Be sure that the rent-back agreement specifies that the sellers will give you written notification of the date they will deliver possession of the house to you, ideally 30 days before they vacate, so that you can give notice to your landlord and thereby avoid paying additional rent.

A lender might object to a seller rent-back if your loan application indicated you would be owner-occupying the property. Many lenders won’t permit a rent-back that runs longer than 30 days after closing. Check with the lender, at the time you submit your loan application, to find out if a seller rent-back will be a problem. If it is, and the sell-

er’s adamant about needing longer than a 30-day rent-back as a condition of the sale, you’ll need to find a lender who’s more

ice will be picked up on Friday and Friday regular service will be picked up on Saturday.

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flexible about rent-backs.

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The Lynne French Team

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Thank you to everyone who stopped

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We loved seeing all of you.

Ly n n e F ren c h To p 1 % Coldwell Banker Agents

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THE LYNNE FRENCH TEAM From left Julie Clairmont, Heather Gray, Sharon Sundin, Angelique Stone, Lynne and Danny French, Ruth Reed, Julie Dunn and Jeff Gillett.

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Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Pierce from page 1 ,

Everyone has his or her own number one priority.

What is your plan for meeting this challenge?

Very conservative planning.

We are actively seeking grants to help us build the downtown park. We have some redevelopment money set aside that can only be used for capital

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improvement projects; it can’t legally be used for ongoing maintenance. Then, the issue is how do we maintain the park.

We can’t build it until we know we have an income stream to maintain it. We’re planning a very low maintenance park, but even low maintenance costs money.

What do you hope to accomplish in 2004?

I hope to balance the budget and keep the lights on. I want to continue to provide basic services to the community in the most cost-effective manner without losing employees. If we have to lose employees, we cannot provide the basic services the community needs – like maintaining police services, keeping the storm drains clean, the trees trimmed, the roads maintained. We’re already a low service city. It’s going to be very difficult to absorb any more cuts without affecting basic services to our community.

On the plus side – now that

IT'S A DOG'S WORLD & CATS RULE at

Concord Feed

December 12, 2003

the new community gym is open, we have this wonderful win-win partnership with the Mt. Diablo Region YMCA that essentially becomes our recreation department - at no cost to the city! We’ll continue to provide activities for all members of the community. That’s what we built it for. We want it to serve all the folks in the community. It’s fun to go out there and see all the kids playing basketball and volleyball. It’s wonderful to see the kids in the after-school program. They have somewhere to go to run off energy and get help with homework. That’s really exciting.

We’re adding more programs to serve other ages, too.

What is your vision for downtown?

My vision since I got on the planning commission in 1987 has been to retain and enhance our historic downtown, with its historic architecture, walkable sidewalks and put in a park, where we can gather and meet friends. I’d like to see a thriving downtown with little shops that would bring people in from outside. Specialty shops would make Clayton a desirable destination. I’d also like to see Clayton become a destination for people who want to use our recreational facilities. Mt Diablo is our back yard, and we have award winning hiking, walking and equestrian trails and a great golf course. I’d love to see someone have a regular bicycle ride that would go through Clayton. And continue the Art and Wine Festival and our traditional 4th of July that’s so important to us. A new Octoberfest is planned for 2004. I want to see things that promote and enhance the family aspects of our community.

Perhaps by becoming a hub for recreational events, we might

be discovered.

How do you see the city realizing this?

There is land available to develop along these lines. There are a couple of parcels on Center near the post office, a parcel behind the Clayton Club, one behind Skips and one between Skips and TLC – actually, most of Center St, as well as the land behind the Community church.

How do you attract the developers? That’s the trick. We have to publicize the town. It’s a chicken/egg thing. It may be, at some point, that the city will partner with someone to get something jump-started. I don’t think the city should necessarily become a landlord, but we might have to help current owners to get something started.

There are possibilities for refurbishing the downtown. If the existing merchants are interested in revitalization, they need to let the city know. We might be able to do something as a partnership. We’ve done a lot in rebuilding the streets and sidewalks and making it look inviting but there’s only so much we can do. If someone has a creative idea, we want to hear it.

One of the things I think would go over big in Clayton is a store that sells really well prepared take out dinners-something better than fast food. Like the specialty parts of Whole Foods or Andronico’s.

What do you hope to see on the one-acre parcel?

I really don’t know yet. I want to see something that will produce income. Don’t want a strip mall; don’t want it to look ordinary. I want something that is complimentary to the firehouse, and Diamond Terrace. I don’t want it to be something that will compete with the little shops in downtown that we hope to have.

We’re even looking at keep-

ing the land and doing a land lease, maybe even a partnership.

Maybe a really good steakhouse or some other business that would be a destination and make money for the town. The problem is, a lot of businesses think we are too far away—off the beaten track. But, there is a lot of purchasing power in this town and people will travel for good food.

What are the areas/issues of potential disagreement among council members?

The growth issue is one we always have to discuss. The big issue on the council is “Can we afford to add more housing before the infrastructure, including school space, catches up.”

Some say yes, some say no.

We have state requirements for additional new housing. The state mandates that we build a certain number of new units to accommodate growth. Some are mandated to be affordable to those with very low, low and moderate incomes. We take that responsibility seriously and we’ve already met the requirement for the very low category.

In Clayton, there’s not a lot of available ground for new housing. We are landlocked by Mt. Diablo State Park, Concord and the Urban Limit Line. So the issue is becoming one of higher density. And, that’s not why most folks are in Clayton. We bought into lower density.

Higher density should go nearer to major job and transportation centers.

Another area of concern is how to restructure our landscape maintenance district to accommodate the various service levels that some areas of town have requested. And we need to find out, indeed, if everyone really wants these services. And, how do we get enough money to pay for the basic and necessary services. We may have to redefine basic, necessary and what is optional. I’m not sure we’ll really have disagreement on the council regarding these issues, but it’s certainly something we’ll have to discuss.

What areas/issues do you think it will be easy to build consensus among council members?

The budget. It won’t be easy to find the money, but we all agree on the priorities. We really agree on 90% of the issues and priorities and goals.

Sometimes we have differences on how to achieve them, but we are all trying to get to the same place.

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December 12, 2003

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Hikers’ Haven

Stanley Park – Vancouver, British Columbia

BY KEVIN PARKER Special to the Pioneer

I know what you might be thinking, with the whole “grand departure” theme of my last article and the fact that it was officially my last hike of the season, why I have returned so soon.

Well, jet-setting up the west coast last month, it struck me that sharing adventures and destinations can be as interesting and informative as hiking on the tried and tested trails of Mt. Diablo.

Maybe some of you will never visit Vancouver, but if this article motivates a few of you to head up north and visit our friendly Canadian neighbors, then I have accomplished my main goal. Another goal will be met for those of you who just want to read, see some pictures, be educated or imagine the adventure.

Along with my navigator and companion (none other than my lovely wife Krista), we sat in our hotel room in downtown Vancouver on Friday night trying to figure out how much we could pack into four days. After some careful planning and an assessment of our funds, we decided that enjoying the great outdoors was our ticket. We headed to the biggest park in Vancouver the next day.

Vancouver’s first city council created Stanley Park in 1886; they petitioned the Federal Government to lease 1000 acres of a largely logged peninsula for park and recreation purposes.

Named for Lord Stanley, Governor General of Canada in 1888, this park is North America’s third largest park. It has over 8 million visitors per year.

Sound crowded? Quite the contrary! With its miles of hiking, bicycling and roller blading trails, there is plenty of room for all to enjoy. The park is complete with playgrounds, museums, tennis courts, a golf course, swimming pool and a bit of diverse dining within the park boundaries. I believe it’s safe to say this park has something for everyone.

For this hike— or should I say hikes—we first chose to rent bikes to see as much of the park

beach-goers were enjoying a beautiful day.

Finally we rounded Ferguson Point and headed into English Bay, which provided another mile or so of beautiful beaches. We even heard that during the summer months cricket matches are played along with a number of other sports ranging from Frisbee to roller hockey to lawn bowling.

Once we completed the Seawall Trail loop, we decided to park the bikes and adventure into the nucleus of the actual park.

There is an intricate network of trails zigzagging throughout the park.

Most of the Kevin Parker / Clayton Pioneer trails are for hikers CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE only, so naturally -Stanley Park we had to investiSpokes for friendly service and gate. We hiked along Bridal cheap hourly rates on bicycle Path, Rawlings Trail, Squirrel’s rentals. I believe a garden-vari- Trail and finally Lover’s Walk; ety cruiser was about $4.00, but many more were available.

The amount of trees and solitude Canadian dollars, per hour.

The trail begins at Lost found within the boundaries of Lagoon that heads due east along this park is unbelievable. We Coal Harbor; downtown spent a full day in this park, but Vancouver stands proudly in the two days would have been better.

In closing, I want to combackground. At Brockton Point Lighthouse, you continue to ride mend Canada and Vancouver along Burrard Inlet towards specifically for preserving and Lion’s Gate Bridge. This bridge sharing Stanley Park. The raw is the main connector between land, services, attractions and downtown Vancouver and North activities are a benchmark that Vancouver. Every turn in the trail other communities and states opened spectacular views, should strive for in terms of almost indescribable. Lush, parks. “Enjoyment with presergreen vegetation, well-mani- vation” must have been their cured gardens and friendly peo- motto; and I say, “Mission ple made this park a great place accomplished!”

Here are some other highto visit.

Consider stopping for lunch lights in the Vancouver Area: Robson Street in downtown at Prospect Point Café, which is situated near Lion’s Gate Bridge; Vancouver, plenty of shopping it serves great food and has a and great food; Granville Island, number of breathtaking views. an art gallery mecca and gigantic Seawall Trail rounds Siwash farmer’s market; Capilano Rock and passes Third Beach Suspension Bridge, 450 feet where we actually saw people long and 230 feet above the River; Grouse splashing in the water in Capilano November. Being a Native Mountain Tram, the best views Californian, it was warm, but not of Vancouver.

Gastown, Vancouver’s first that warm. Nonetheless, all the visitors to the park, even the industrial area and home of the as possible via the “Seawall Trail.” This trail literally skirts the entire perimeter of Stanley Park. I recommend Stanley Park

Page 7

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As you can guess, it’s very difficult to pack all these British Columbia adventures into a half-page article; but I trust I have offered enough to get you interested. As they say in Canada, “Grab your tuke and a sleeve of beer!” Translation: “Grab your hat and a pint of beer!” Cheers and no worries!

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Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 12, 2003

Clayton Sports

CVHS

,

training in the weight room. All that work, summer camps, long two-a-day practices in August and then three (yes) months of game success from September through November came down to just a few plays in the NCS finale Dec. 5 against Las Lomas.

The game couldn’t have started better for Clayton as AllBVAL quarterback David Quistgard hooked up with Alex Ross for a 62-yard touchdown on the Eagles FIRST play from scrimmage.

No one could have imagined that the Eagles would not score another offensive point until their LAST play of the game when BVAL player of the year Joe Mortensen took a fourthdown pass from Quistgard 21 yards on a broken play for a TD with nine (that’s 3 x 3) seconds left on the clock to pull the Eagles within 16-14. A brilliant fourth quarter comeback was then capped with Brett Lauer, better known for his basketball exploits, hauling in a two-point conversion pass after beating a double team that forced overtime with the teams tied at 16.

The Eagles, ironically, seemed to get a second wind when they trailed 16-6 in the fourth quarter with Las Lomas getting the majority of the breaks and showing much more offensive push than CV. Knight defender Christian Esser collided with CV runningback Aaron Johnson (he wears uniform #3).

Esser did not get up from the collision and play was delayed over 20 minutes while medical precautions were taken with Esser.

After the long delay the teams were given three (!) minutes to warm up and it was the Eagles who grabbed the initiative from Las Lomas, who may have been preoccupied worrying about their injured comrade. CV was helped by a bad snap out of the end zone that gifted them a safety to pull within 16-8. Las Lomas earlier had gotten a safety when CV was penalized in their end zone. Clayton looked to have squandered their final chance in the last three minutes of the game when penalties and two near misses on long passes from Quistgard to Lowell Garthwaite, a two-way AllBVAL star along with Mortensen, failed. Las Lomas took over and attempted to run out the clock protecting their 168 lead. Clayton’s defense, the strength of the team all season, wouldn’t go down quietly as three plays netted Las Lomas very little yardage and they had to punt back to the Eagles in the final two minutes. Garthwaite’s long punt return down the left sideline gave CV a last-gasp hope that was realized with less than 10 seconds to go for the greatest late-game comeback Pardi has ever coached.

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from page 1

Jay Bedecarre/Clayton Pioneer

Clayton Valley High Principal John Neary, right, congratulates coach Herc Pardi and the Eagles players after NCS 3A football championship game at DVC. school version of overtime.

Each team gets the ball at the 10yardline with four downs. They rotate going on offense or defense first in each period. All six periods ended in TDs. Las Lomas was behind 36-29 when they scored on fourth down in the third overtime. They were inches from the goal line after a first-down pass but it took three runs (that number again) to finally move the Eagles defense those few inches to get a TD. Las Lomas coach Doug Longero then decided to roll the dice and go for a two-point conversion from the Eagles (yes!) threeyard line. If the Knights score, they win and if CV stops them they lose. Quarterback Jon Loeliger hit James Yamashita in the right end zone and a mad celebration broke out on the Las Lomas side of Viking Stadium.

For Clayton Valley it was a sudden, excruciating, heartbreaking end to a remarkable season that had so many firsts, including the school’s first-ever out-of-state game and brand new stadium lights allowing for the first-ever home night games.

Players fell to the turf in stunned silence. As loud as the Las Lomas side was with a wild scene of players, coaches, spirit squads, band, students and parents celebrating a repeat NCS crown, it was just as silent on the CVHS side.

After the teams did the traditional (and heartfelt) line to con-

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gratulate one another, coach Pardi gathered his team on the field where they had fought so gallantly for over three (ouch) hours. Pardi brought his captains, Mortensen, Garthwaite and Quistgard around him and then asked each assistant coach to address the team. The coaches had a hard time speaking, but those who did told the players how proud they were. School principal John Neary then congratulated the players and expressed special words for the 29 seniors who had come so far since last fall.

Coach Pardi told the team of his pride in their accomplishments and play in the championship game and all season. He told the boys he would never forget them and then he asked the captains for the season’s final “who-rah”. The three (yes, three) captains gathered their blue-clad teammates around them and, for the last time, raised their arms together and shouted “who-rah”, a yell started when Jerry Coakley joined the coaching staff as defensive coordinator a few years ago. The pain in their voices was evident.

Reflecting on the game the next day, Pardi said it was the “toughest, hardest defeat of his coaching career.” He quickly recalled games against De La Salle and Antioch in 1993 and ‘94 when he coached at Pittsburg High as the closest in heartbreak to last week’s game.

“And those weren’t championship games,” he added. Pardi said this game, unofficially called the longest ever in NCS football championship annals, ranks as one of the top four games in area history. He mentioned the 1968 Ygnacio ValleyConcord clash of undefeateds, 1991 DLS-Pittsburg NCS finals (when Pitt handed the Spartans their last defeat 151 games ago) and the 2002 regular season Monte Vista-San Ramon game as the others.

Three Dog Night had a hit song “One” that had the lyrics “One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do”. Clayton Valley High School football might say that “Three” is the loneliest number they ever had and “One” is the number they wanted—-one more point for one title

It’s the holiday season when gifts are exchanged among friends and the Clayton Valley High School Athletic Boosters have a gift idea that can even pay dividends for the giver!

The goal of putting a new all-weather track and artificial turf football/soccer field at the Alberta Way school is now nearing reality with organizers hoping that construction can begin in the spring so that the facilities are ready for the 2004 school year and youth sports seasons.

With the end of the year just around the calendar, tax deductible contributions to the field fund this month can be used for the donor’s 2003 taxes.

“We are still looking for major cash donors to help us reach our goal. We have commitments to fund a majority of the project but need the entire community to help finish the job,” Chairperson Pat Middendorf explains. She adds that the project has been endorsed by Clayton Valley High and Mt. Diablo Unified School District officials, local community leaders and all the local youth sports organizations.

“Our high school athletic programs, student physical education classes and youth sports have suffered long enough using these outdated, unsafe facilities,” Middendorf says. As athletic director at the school and the Eagles varsity girls soccer coach, she speaks from experience.

Dan Sandoval is in charge of the Buy-A-Brick program, which start at $75 for a 4x8 brick with three lines of copy.

Families, individuals, CVHS alumni, businesses and local residents can buy a brick with a commemorative message that will be placed at the site as a lasting memorial. The program includes larger bricks priced from $200 up to $5000 for 24x24 marble displays.

Interested parties can call Sandoval at 689-4927 to order and pay for a brick before the end of the year. More information on the brick program is also available at www.cvbricks.cjb.net. Over 200 bricks have been purchased to date.

Lights were installed at the CVHS stadium earlier his year and with the construction of an all-weather track and artificial playing surface the site will be able to host major football, soccer and track events on the high school and youth levels. Along with the recently refurbished CVHS baseball facilities and the proposed aquatic complex now also in the fund-raising stage, Clayton Valley H.S. will soon have athletic and community recreation facilities second to none in the area, adding to the quality of life for all residents and students.

Middendorf saluted the list of major donors who have already stepped up to fund this project, which has been estimated to cost $1.2-$1.4 million.

Steve and Debra Gonsalves, both Clayton Valley High graduates, are the founding donors.

The Dianda Foundation, Mike’s Auto Body, Jim and Pat Middendorf and Mike and Laurie Rose are platinum plus donors. Sil Garaventa and Straight Line Imports are platinum contributors.

St. Bonaventure CYO Track and MDSA are gold donors. Rick and Charlotte Hutchins and Tred Shed are silver sponsors while Dolan Lumber, the Villalobos and Arbour families, Rich and Nancy Littorno and Tri-Star Financial Services are bronze donors.

For more information call Middendorf at 682-7474, ext.

4728. Tax deductible contributions can be mailed directly to CVHS Athletic Boosters, P.O. Box 26, Clayton, CA 94517.

Clayton native takes World Cup Clayton native Daron Rahlves won his fifth World Cup downhill last Friday in Beaver Creek, Colo. for the first-ever World Cup downhill title by an American on US soil since 1984. Rahlves followed that up the next day with a fourth-place finish in the men’s downhill-2, finishing behind three Austrians.

Rahlves is now seventh in World Cup standings for the 2003-2004 season. “It was one of those runs you pull everything,” Rahlves said. “I hammered as hard as I could. I’ve wanted to win in the United States and I just skied with my

heart today.

“It was definitely a good run,” Rahlves said. “I took maximum risks all the way. I still wasn’t feeling like I had all the energy I wanted...I’ve been sick–it’s been a battle all week to get back, and I wasn’t as close as I wanted, but I love this hill and I told myself, ‘It’s one run and I can make it happen.’”

The 30-year-old Rahlves likened the victory, the first DH triumph by a U.S. man on U.S. soil since Bill Johnson won at Aspen after the Sarajevo Olympics in March 1984, to his win in Kitzbuehel, Austria.

December 12, 2003

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 9

Clayton C ommunity C alendar Please submit your Clayton Community Calendar events by 5 p.m., Dec. 15 for the Dec. 26 issue. Fax to 672-6580 or e-mail calendar@claytonpioneer.com

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT Now through Dec. 15 CITY OF CLAYTON COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION APPLICATIONS City of Clayton is seeking alternate member for Community Services Commission, which is an advisory board to City Council. The commission meets the second Thursday of each month. City of Clayton City Clerk Rhonda Basore www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 Dec. 16, Jan. 6, 20 CLAYTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING @ CLAYTON LIBRARY 7pm. City of Clayton City Council meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of month.

Open to the public. Clayton Library Community Room. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 Dec. 16, Jan. 6, 13, 20 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900 Dec. 17 DEADLINE FOR CLAYTON PIONEER ADVERTISING IN DECEMBER 26 ISSUE Last chance to place advertising or to submit a calendar listing for Dec. 26 final 2003 issue of the Pioneer. www.claytonpioneer.com Jill Bedecarre 672-0500 Dec. 23, Jan. 13 CLAYTON PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING @ CLAYTON LIBRARY 7 p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. Clayton Library Community Room. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 Jan. 7 DEADLINE FOR CLAYTON PIONEER ADVERTISING IN JANUARY 16 ISSUE Last chance to place advertising or to submit a calendar listing for January 16 issue of the Pioneer. www.claytonpioneer.com Jill Bedecarre 672-0500 Jan. 8 CLAYTON COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MEETING @ CITY HALL 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 Heritage Trail. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 Jan. 29 CLAYTON BUSINESS & COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MEETING @ OAKHURST 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting on last non-holiday Thursday of month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon. Oakhurst Country Club.

Ed Hartley 672-2272

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Dec. 16 YGNACIO VALLEY REPUBLICAN WOMEN MONTHLY MEETING 6:30-8 p.m. Legislation, Americanism & discussion group on political issues of the day. Optional lunch at 12:15. Oakhurst Country Club. www.yvrwf.org 838-2182 Dec. 18, Jan. 8, 15, 22 ROTARY CLUB OF CLAYTON VALLEY CONCORD SUNRISE @ OAKHURST 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker. Oakhurst Country Club. www.claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640 Dec. 18, Jan. 8, 15, 22 WEIGHTS WATCHERS WEEKLY MEETING 10 a.m., 5 & 6:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. Prospective members welcome. Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. 800/326-8450 x2023 Jan. 3 CLAYTON CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING BY BOY SCOUTS 8 a.m. Clayton residents can recycle unflocked trees which should be on street curb for annual pickup by Boy Scouts Troop 484 sponsored by Clayton Business Association. Donations gratefully accepted. Checks can be made payable to Boy Scout Troop 484. Checks can also be mailed to: Boy Scouts c/o Beckham, 5941 Cardinet Dr., Clayton 94517. George Beckham 672-5010 Jan. 8 SONS IN RETIREMENT MONTHLY MEETING @ OAKHURST 12 noon. Sons in Retirement John Muir Branch 19 holds its monthly meeting on 1st Thursday of month. Oakhurst Country Club.

672-6418 Jan. 13 CONCORD NO LE HACE 4-H CLUB MEETING @ FARM BUREAU HALL 7 p.m. 4-H Club meets 2nd Tuesday of month. Open to youth ages 5 (kindergarten) through 19. Club offers animal & non-animal projects.

5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. http://concord4h.i680n.com 646-6543

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Dec. 12, 19, 26 DIGITAL THUNDER BOWLING @ CLAYTON BOWL 4-6 p.m. Digital Thunder Bowling on Friday afternoons for kids includes music, lights and bumper lanes. Clayton Valley Bowl. 689-4631

NOW THROUGH JAN. 2 HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAY BY MR. CHRISTMAS 6-10 p.m. See the famous light display of Mr. Christmas that has dazzled the area for 24 years. Drive by and see what new light displays are added this year. Mr. Christmas, 5208 Olive Dr. (between Kirker Pass Rd & Ayers Rd.), Concord Dec. 13 SANTA AND MRS. CLAUS VISIT WITH CLAYTON KIDS 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Santa will be taking kids’ wish lists at the North Pole (Clayton Library) while Mrs. Claus will be inside serving scrumptious holiday treats until 3 p.m. Santa’s elves will also be on hand.

Clayton Library. 672-2272 Dec. 21 COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT @ HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH 6 p.m. A string quartet, chorus & Christmas carol sing-a-long followed by refreshments celebrate the Christmas season. Free admission. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. 686-2000 Dec. 24 CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE @ CV PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 5:30, 11 p.m. Former Pastor Otto Henn began the Christmas Eve tradition in late 1960s with candlelight service culminating in communion as midnight strikes with European traditions with an earlier family celebration added in recent years. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton. www.cvpresby.org 672-4848 Dec. 24 CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICES @ CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH 5, 7 p.m. Come home for Christmas Eve at a warm, family celebration of the birth of Christ Candlelight Service held at Diablo View Middle School.

Clayton Community Church. www.claytoncc.com 673-9060 Dec. 24-25 CHRISTMAS MASSES @ ST. BONAVENTURE CHURCH 3, 5, 7 (Spanish), 9 p.m. & midnight Dec. 24, 7:30, 10 a.m. & noon (Spanish) Dec. 25. St. Bonaventure celebrates the birth of Christ with 8 masses (including two in Spanish) on Christmas Eve and Christmas day.

St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Rd. www.stbonaventure.net 672-5800 Dec. 24-25 CHRISTMAS SERVICES @ HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH 7 p.m. Dec. 24, 10:30 a.m. Dec. 25. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with accompaniment of choir & string quartet. Christmas Day worship celebrates the birth of Christ. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. 686-2000 Dec. 28 INTERFAITH PRAYERS & MUSIC 10-11 a.m. A program of prayers from the world’s religious scriptures and inspirational music for peace, unity & spirituality. Sponsored by Baha’is of Concord. Cal State Concord campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Room 146, Concord. bahai.concord.ca@bci.org 381-4826 Dec. 31 NEW YEAR'S EVE 2003 @ CLAYTON COMMUNITY GYM 5 p.m.-midnight. Mt. Diablo Region YMCA hosts New Year's Eve activities including roller hockey, basketball/volleyball/indoor soccer, music, dancing, sports TV, big screen family movies, Kinder Gym, Childwatch/activity area, contests and games...and it's all free! YMCA, Diablo View Middle School, Clayton. www.mdrymca.org 889-1600 Dec. 31-Jan. 1 NEW YEARS EVE & NEW YEARS MASSES @ ST. BONAVENTURE CHURCH 8 p.m. (Spanish) Dec. 31 & 9 a.m. Jan 1. Ring out 2003 or begin the new year with mass. St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Rd. www.stbonaventure.net 672-5800 Now through Jan. 23 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SUBSTANCE ABUSE POSTER CONTEST Knights of Columbus Concord Council 6038 sponsors 6th annual Substance Abuse Poster Contest for ages 8-11 and 12-14 in 2 categories “Drug” and “Alcohol”. Local youth were winners at Council, Chapter, State & International levels in last year’s competition.

Claire Tryon grey_eototo@msn.com 673-8564 Jan. 11 PET VACCINATIONS @ YARDBIRDS 10:45-11:15 a.m. Dogs and cats can get all their vaccinations from a mobile clinic. Yardbirds, 5400 Ygnacio Valley Rd. www.yolanovet.com 672-2790 Jan. 16 ELVIS FILM NIGHT @ CSU HAYWARD CONCORD 7-8:30 p.m. Jim Forsher, CSU Hayward Communications professor & award-winning documentary filmmaker, presents unique look at Elvis Presley. Jim’s mom Trude was Elvis’ first secretary & private publicist. From 1956-62 she worked daily with Elvis. They will show highlights from films & newsreels of the day, tied to inside story of how he rose from truckdriver to legend. Free admission. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772 Feb. 25 LEWIS AND CLARK REVISITED LECTURE @ CSU HAYWARD CONCORD 7-8:30 p.m. Greg MacGregor, CSU Hayward professor emeritus of art, retracing route of Lewis & Clark’s expedition (1804-06) using best research available, often returning to original campsites and views as seen by the explorers. Free admission. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION Dec. 16 HEARING ON SCHOOL TEXTBOOKS @ MDUSD DENT CENTER 7:30 p.m. Mt. Diablo Unified School District board will consider resolution that each K-12th grade student has sufficient textbooks & instructional materials for this school year and future. MDUSD Dent Center, 1939 Carlotta Dr., Concord. www.mdusd.k12.ca.us 682-8000 Dec. 18 CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL HOLIDAY CONCERT 7 p.m. Student instrumental music groups perform their annual free holiday concert. CVHS musical groups include Jazz and Stage bands, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band & Orchestra. Selections include Dello Joio’s Scenes from The Louvre, Smith’s Variations on Deck the Halls, Davis’s Carillons at Christmastime and Lecuona’s Andalucia Suite. Clayton Valley High School. www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/claytonvalley 682-7474 Dec. 20-Jan. 4 CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS HOLIDAY FOR MDUSD SCHOOLS All schools in Mt. Diablo Unified School District enjoy two-week holiday celebrating Christmas and New Years. www.mdusd.k12.ca.us 682-8000 Jan. 12 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FREE THROW CONTEST @ DIABLO VIEW GYM 5:30-9:30 p.m. 20th annual Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest sponsored by the Concord Council 6038 from . Contest is for 9-14 year olds boys & girls. Winners Compete at Local, District, Regional, State & International levels. All athletes receive frameable participation certificate.

Special trophies are awarded to winners and a special free throw patch.

Claire Tryon 673-8564 Jan. 13, 20, 27 PATTY CAKES @ CLAYTON LIBRARY 11 a.m. Story time for children up to 3 years on Tuesdays. Clayton Library. www.cclib.org 673-0659 Jan. 14 WHY DOESN’T MONEY MAKE YOU HAPPY LECTURE @ CSU HAYWARD CONCORD 2-3:30 p.m. Robert Ozaki, professor emeritus of economics, discusses money, time & American society. Average American’s income now is much higher than in the 1950s or ‘60s but percentage of Americans who feel satisfied with what they have has hardly risen over time. Dr. Ozaki will offer his thoughts on these & other apparent paradoxes of affluent society. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772 Jan. 15, 22, 29 PICTURE BOOK TIME @ CLAYTON LIBRARY 11 a.m. Story time on Thursdays for children 3-5 years who may attend without parents. Clayton Library www.cclib.org 673-0659 Jan. 28 BOTANICAL HEROES & FLORA OF SF LECTURE @ CSU HAYWARD CONCORD 7-8:30 p.m. Tom Daniel, Cal Academy of Sciences curator of botany, gives presentation highlighting dramatic, historical roles of botanists Albert Kellogg, Katherine Brandegee, Alice Eastwood & John Thomas Howell in building (and rebuilding) a major center of botanical research at California Academy of Sciences and their efforts to document plants of San Francisco through collections & publications. Free admission. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772 Feb. 2 VOCABULARY INSTRUCTION THAT STRENGTHENS COMPREHENSION @ CSU CONCORD 4-5:30 p.m. Shira Lubliner, CSU Hayward professor of teacher education, discusses vocabulary & comprehension which are two of 5 components of reading instruction designated as essential by “No Child Left Behind,” educational reform bill signed by President Bush. Dr. Lubliner will share methods utilized in the study & discuss importance of findings. Free admission. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772 Feb. 7 CLAYTON VALLEY ATHLETIC BOOSTERS CRAB FOOD 6 p.m. Annual crab feed benefiting Clayton Valley High School Athletic Boosters as they support CVHS sports teams with a celebrity guest MC. Clayton Valley High School. www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/claytonvalley Laurie Warner 676-9521 Feb. 11 USA PATRIOT ACT: LIBERTY & SECURITY AT WAR LECTURE@ CSU HAYWARD CONCORD 2-3:30 p.m. Emily Stoper, CSU Hayward professor of political science, discusses USA Patriot Act. President Bush defines the “war on terrorism” as a war for liberty against “the enemies of freedom.” Yet very soon after Sept.

11, 2001, he signed USA Patriot Act, which significantly reduces liberties protected by Bill of Rights. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772

Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 12, 2003

Conifers add formal touch to gardens NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

Conifers are beautiful. The right Conifer choice put in the right place can offer support for large homes, create evergreen curb appeal or give layered coverage for a large hillside or slope.

Simply planting conifers singly or in groups can support deciduous trees, separate garden rooms and add that formal touch to an

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entry or a dramatic container.

By reading the plant descriptions and evaluating the particular application where the plant is needed, we can make some excellent, stately choices.

Fernspray False Cypress is a lovely evergreen that is friendly to touch and dramatic to look upon. This cypress adds an oriental look to a garden and its dark-green fernlike foliage gracefully reaches eight feet tall and three to four feet wide. Plant the False Cypress in full to partial sun, and surround it with variegated sedge and Japanese Anemone. Place a couple of Fernspray Cypress plants behind an Acer Palmatum ‘Oshio-Beni’ to add interest and support during the dormant period. This combination will mature into a lovely piece for any Clayton garden.

The front side of your home is an excellent place for an evergreen. Picea m. ‘Nana’ adds so much to any landscape.

Blue\gray needlelike foliage

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doorway. Alternate planting of Emerald with Iceberg Roses separates a larger area. Other nice evergreen plants that are entryway deserving are Picea Glauca ‘Conica’, Dwarf Alberta Spruce, and Twisted Hinoki Cypress.

Hinoki has red bark, and twisted branches, with fern like dark green foliage.

If you desire something different to please your plant palate, then consider a conifer. Whether you plant one here or there, with the right selection, there’s plenty to please you. Look at some photos of mature gardens and notice the Baby Blue Eyes dwarf blue spruce in the back round, or the ‘Tolleson’s Blue Weeping’ Juniper creating such a statement above that koi pond. Conifers are beautiful. Notice them.

Nicole Hackett is the Garden Girl at R & M Pool, Patio and Garden. Send your questions or comments to

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Rheingold under or below a Japanese Maple or perhaps behind some Rose Glow Barberry. The contrast between the brilliant red foliage and the deep golden yellow is awesome.

Thuja O. Rheingold can be kept small or let to grow, reaching only four feet tall and wide.

Naturally round in shape, this Thuja introduced to a garden adds a formal touch.

Entryways are a very important element when designing garden rooms. They let visitors know when a garden is going to begin and end. Arbors and gates are one way to enter a garden area and Thuja or Emerald is another. Moderate growth for this evergreen is to 15 feet tall and three to four feet wide. This evergreen makes a formal statement. Ground or large container worthy, the Emerald is sun hardy and deer resistant. It’s also pretty tough in the wind too. Two plants placed seven feet from each other will make a lovely

contrasts and cools when needed, depending on how it is used.

This slow grower resembles a doughnut and is used like an island. Mixed with white birch, this dwarf black spruce cools the ground and lends itself to a dash of lavender and a border of white. Plant two to three Sea Lavenders below the spruce. The gray foliage and the deep lavender clusters of blooms blend well for a relaxing feel. Add some Iberis or Candytuft and the white blooms will sound the alarm that spring is on its way. These choices can be spaced out and layered so all can be seen and enjoyed.

Thuja O. Rheingold is a sturdy, compact selection that will thrive in all the conditions that Clayton weather has to offer.

Bright, golden foliage during spring and summer is replaced with a coppery red color for the fall and winter seasons. For year round interest mix this with your red-leafed deciduous plants. A home is easily found for Thuja o.

Happy Holidays Give the gift that lasts forever

(925) 682-2855 5354 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521

The Clayton Community Library has had a 27% cut in its book budget this year. To help out, please consider purchasing one of these titles, or any title on the current New York Times Best Sellers list. Donors will have their name and the name of a loved one, if desired, inscribed on a gift bookplate inside the book.

Just drop the book off at the library with a note and the wording you would like, and the Clayton Community Library Foundation will send you a receipt for tax purposes and a thank you note.

The Clayton Community Library Foundation is always pleased to receive cash or check donations for books and other library materials. The Library receives volume discounts up to 40% ordering books through the Contra Costa County Library.

Here are some suggestions for adult books: Fiction, Mitch Albom. The Five people you meet in heaven; Dan Brown. Angels and demons, J.M. Coetzee.

Elizabeth Costello ; Disgrace, Clive Cussler. White death, Jan Karon. Shepherds abiding, Marian Keyes. Sushi for beginners, Tim LaHaye and Greg Dinallo.

Babylon rising, Jhumpa Lahiri.

The Namesake, Steve Martin.The Pleasure of my company, R.A. McCall Smith. Kalahari typing school for men ; Morality for beautiful girls, Toni Morrison.

Love, Robert B. Parker. Stone cold, Richard North Patterson.

Balance of power, Neal Stevenson. Quicksilver. Non-fiction requests include the following: Madeleine Albright. Madam Secretary, James Bradley.

Flyboys, Barbara Bush.

Reflections, Ann Coulter. Treason, Al Franken. Lies (and the lying liars who tell them), Phil McGraw.

The Ultimate weight solution, Rachael Ray. 30-minute meals.

If you would like to purchase a children’s book for the library, register first at igive.com so the library benefits even more! Call the library for a list of preferred children’s authors and titles at 673-0659.

SHOP ONLINE Holiday and Wedding Superstore www.seasonalreflections.com

Featuring everything for the Christmas holidays Decorations, lighting, supplies and more We have one of the largest lighting collections on the Internet with cord and bulb color combinations that you can’t find anywhere else.

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Code to enter for discount at checkout: CLAYRES10 (offer good through 1/31/04)

Six stores including Valentine’s Day, Easter, Patriotic, Halloween, Christmas and Wedding For more information or to order, call (925) 672-4425 or log on to www.seasonalreflections.com

John and Natalie Sharapata, Owners and Clayton residents

December 12, 2003

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

How to make the Year 2004 Your Best Year Yet!

™

As the New Year approaches, it's a good time to take stock of your life. First, decide what you would like to change, and then make a plan to help you achieve those changes. New Year's resolutions-are they right or wrong? One important reason resolutions don't stick is people don't plan a to reach their goals. This process will help kick-start 2004, making it your personal Best Year Yet!™.

It's adapted from the best selling book, Your Best Year Yet!™ by my good friend and colleague, Jinny Ditzler.

Sit down with paper and pencil and ask yourself the following 10 questions.

Question 1: What did I accomplish this year?

It's easy to remember what you did badly or left undone, but don't forget the things you did well. Write down your achievements. If you can't remember them, go through your calendar. Your appointments will trigger ideas.

Examples: Started a jogging routine. Secured the XWY contract. Spent time with my children.

Question 2: What were my biggest disappointments?

Successful people don't dwell on failures, but they don't gloss over them either. They acknowledge them, look honestly at what caused them and then let them go. Write down what did not go well this past year and let go of those disappointments. Examples: Had an argument. Missed deadlines.

Put on weight.

Question 3: What did I learn during the year?

You can't change what happened, but you can learn from it. Look at each accomplishment, and ask yourself, "How did I do that?" Then look at each disappointment, and ask, " What would I do differently?"

Write your answers in the form of advice you might give yourself. Examples: Ask for help when I need it. Focus on what matters most. Select three statements and make them guidelines to follow. Ask yourself, "What three pieces of advice would really help make this my

Best Year Yet!™?"

Question 4: How do I limit myself and how can I stop?

Don't rush. Our ideas and beliefs have powerful effects on

DORY WILLER

A CHEERLEADER

Examples: Be a good listener.

Put my family first. Live with integrity.

Question 6: What roles do I play in my life?

List them all: parent, spouse, breadwinner, volunteer, friend, etc. Be sure one of your roles is to take care of yourselfthe "Self Manager" role. If there are new roles, list them: such as, author, adventurer, wise investor.

Question 7: Which role is my focus for the coming year?

Think about which role would make the biggest difference. This doesn't mean you'll ignore other roles, but you will give extra attention to those you choose.

Question 8: What are my

FOR YOUR SOUL our performance. Start with "How do I limit myself?" Write whatever comes to mind.

Examples: I don't speak up. I don't take risks to reach big goals. I put myself last. Now ask yourself: "What do I say about myself to explain these limitations?" Your answers might range from "My opinions aren't valued," or "I'm too old/out of shape/busy." From your list, pick one belief that limits you. Make it a statement creating a new belief or paradigm for yourself. Example: People appreciate my contributions. I work on things that interest me the most. Select one statement that if applied would shift your actions and empower you to move past obstacles.

Stick that goal all over your house so the words are always in front of you. Focusing on this will change your assumptions about yourself. When you catch yourself falling into negative thinking, read this new belief about yourself. Remember, where your thoughts are, your focus of attention follows and creates your reality!

Question 5: What are my personal values?

Most of us have a pretty good idea of our values. But living up to them is another story. Put your most important values in writing so they'll be uppermost in your mind.

adigm (Question 4). Major focus (Question 7). Top 10 goals (Question 9). Make this page look special.

Question 10: How can I make sure I achieve my goals?

Jot down ideas that could help you keep your plan on track. Examples: Find a friend to help. Review my plan every week. Identify weekly steps.

Hire a personal coach. Keep your plan in front of you when you sit down with your weekly and daily schedules. How can you advance your plan? If you are stuck, know that you are an

excellent candidate for personal coaching. Try to partner yourself with a professional coach who can help you overcome obstacles to achieving your goals. Is it time you got a Coach?

Dory Willer, is a certified personal life coach, an international speaker, and author of four books. She was named the 2003 International Coach of the Year. Clients call her a "Cheerleader for the Soul." www.BeaconQuest.com (925) 473-4899

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goals for each role?

If this next year is going to be your best, what goals for each role will make that happen? List as many goals as you'd like, but list at least one for each role.

Question 9: What are my top 10 goals for the next year?

Pull it all together now.

Look over your list of goals from Question 8. Put a check by the ones that would make this your Best Year Yet! ™. Your goals should be results-oriented. Aim for balance. Nine business goals and one personal goal is disproportionate.

Make a one-page summary of the four main parts of your Best Year Yet!™ plan. Include the following: Guidelines for the year (Question 3. New par-

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Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 12, 2003

Is there a song in your heart? Part 2 Last time we talked about songwriting as an artistic pursuit.

It’s an endeavor worthy of time and energy for those so inclined; primarily, to satisfy one’s inner desire to express themselves, in words, music, or both.

In this column, we will address the means by which songwriters are paid for their work. A fortunate few can actually earn a living at this intensely competitive profession; however, if you have the talent and the drive you might be surprised at the number of income sources available to songwriters.

If you write a hit song, (recorded by yourself or someone else), the most common means for obtaining royalty income is through the companies known as “Performing Rights Organizations” (PRO’s).

SESAC, BMI and ASCAP are the three main PRO’s in the United States. While they all have their own unique characteristics, (you can learn a lot just by

checking out each of their websites), all three have the same primary purpose: to serve their songwriter and music publisher members. Primarily, this consists of monitoring and tracking music “performed” on the airwaves, via background music services. Anywhere else it’s used as part of business.

Through complicated formulas differ for each of the PRO’s, they determine the “weight” of these performances and pay royalties according to which writers earned the most “points” during a given period. These royalties become available through the license fees charged to businesses that use music.

Music on radio and television stations, at concerts, in retail stores, shopping malls, skating rinks and at sporting events is all subject to licensing. The United States Copyright Laws contain severe financial penalties for those using copyrighted music without a songwriter’s permis-

JIM HUDAK

MUSIC

NOTES

sion. The PRO’s save the writers from having to contact and negotiate payment from all the businesses that use their music.

This makes PRO’s necessary for a composer. You will want to affiliate yourself with one of them once your music starts to get performed on a significant basis.

Other, less-traditional sources of income are available to songwriters. Listen to all the music “jingles” you hear on

radio and television. Some writers having written little minisongs or themes—some only a few seconds in duration—about colas, cars, food and soap products have accumulated huge fortunes.

Advertising agencies “place” music jingles into commercials.

While it’s an extremely competitive field, new jingles are recorded and placed regularly.

You might try writing jingles about products you use. See if you can accumulate a “portfolio.” Then, contact recording studios that specialize in recording jingles and make a good demo tape or CD. Music really is used everywhere. In plays, films, on television, and in advertisements. The process, briefly summarized, is to write and copyright it, record a good version and then pitch it to potential users. Yes, “Inspiration is 99% perspiration,” as the old, saying goes.

When all is said and done,

songwriting is one of the most potentially lucrative aspects of the music business. If you really do have a song in your heart, I

Rock Stars Wanted JOE ROMANO

SO, ANYWAY Anyone who reads Dave Barry’s column on a regular basis knows that he is forever coming up with what he believes would be great band names.

Having had many friends in high school that played in bands, I am all too aware of the importance of coming up with that perfect name, and how much time and energy goes into this process.

Who can deny that the selection of that just perfect moniker can make or break a band? I mean does anyone remember The Wizdom Rats besides their parents and me? Probably not.

How about some of those bands that did, if you will, “make it” only to drop off the face of the earth: Men Without Hats?

Kajagoogoo? The guy who wrote the Pina Colada song? I’m absolutely convinced that many of those One Hit Wonders were only OHW BECAUSE of their names. Let’s face it, how far can you expect to get with the name Haircut 100?

So as a service to all you teenagers out there with dreams of musical stardom I am offering, in no particular order, the following list of possible names. Might I suggest that one of you develop a web site chat room so that you will have a forum for discussion and decision making? There are plenty of good ones to go around so please try to be fair about it.

All have been cross-referenced on Bandname.com so as to avoid duplication. That being said, my

apologies in advance if any of these names are all ready taken.

This will simply help to demonstrate just how out of touch I am with the current musical scene.

I have but one requirement. If your band makes it big with one of my suggestions you must credit me by way of a song, my mug on a tour T-shirt, a shout out to me during your Grammy acceptance speech. Something.

Anything. Oh, one more thing.

Before you read each name you must loudly say: “Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome!”…

Are we ready? OK then…

Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome...

Spastic Colon Squirrel Carcass The Zen Monkeys Needling Pimps Harry Mandrill (get it? ha!)

Playground Hooligans Waning Morals Spitting Llama John Denver Tú Dos Moonbeams and Rainbows (can you tell I’m getting tired?)

Pork and Beans (VERY tired?)

Ground Chuck (and hungry?)

Whew. That’s it for me folks.

I think I’ll kick back with a little Strawberry Alarm Clock and call it a day.

IN OTHER NEWS My children have become accustomed to what we commonly refer to as “food.” They also seem quite fond of the wood and stucco (albeit, crumbling) structure in which they eat their food, store their toys and lay their little heads after a hard day’s play.

It is for these reasons that I now find myself conducting that dreaded activity known as…The Job Search. Yes, that’s right, yours truly, along with about 75

percent of the residents of our fine state, will soon find himself in the bread line, hoping that we aren’t heading into a yeast recession. As such, I am taking advantage of my bully pulpit to spread the word that I AM FOR SALE.

My contact information is below.

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AEFER’S H C S Painting It's winter and time to look inside

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Joe Romano is a free-lance writer for hire. He can be contacted at jromano01@yahoo.com

e r th o f s lp He liday ho

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December 12, 2003

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 13

Switch on the light for Christmas

BY Shawn Robinson Special to the Clayton Pioneer

The story is told of a group of children who were putting on a Christmas play at their church. To show the radiance of the newborn Savior, an electric light bulb was hidden in the manger. All the stage lights were to be turned off so that only the brightness of the manger could be seen, but the boy who controlled the light got confused-all the lights went out!

It was a tense moment, broken only when one of the shep-

herds said in a loud stage whisper, "Hey! You switched off Jesus!"

Have you switched off Jesus this Christmas? Many people do. They don't realize that Jesus is what Christmas is all about.

They don't recognize that God broke into human history in a way that would invite us to see that he was, and is--truly the light of the world.

I often find that in my hurry to meet my holiday obligations, my light is switched off. I fail to see God's light in the midst of my busy holiday activity. I fail

to see that God wants me to be his light switch in my hustle, bustle community. I'm so busy preparing for Christmas that I often miss the wonder of Christmas.

The wonder of Christmas is found in Jesus, the light of the world. Has your Christmas light dimmed over the years? Maybe now is the time to stop, take a deep breath and be still long enough to embrace the wonder of Christmas found in Jesus Christ. It's not too late to turn on the light this Christmas-after all, isn't that what Christmas is all

Recycle this paper

about?

"In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it." (John 1:4-5) May you find the light of Jesus this Christmas season Shawn Robinson is the senior pastor of Clayton Community Church. The church meets every Sunday at the Diablo View Middle School Gym at 9 and 10:45am. For more info, call the church at 673-9060, or check out their Web site at www.claytoncc.com

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Steps to avoiding dementia NAOMI GARY

SENIOR MOMENTS The holidays are a time for families to get together and reminisce about old times. We get to laugh at past silly moments like when the Christmas tree almost burned down. Wasn't that the event you said: "We'll be able to laugh about for years to come!"

Some families first discover an older person's memory loss struggle when these memories don't surface anymore. For some

people, a disease like Alzheimer's has erased that memory forever.

Would you like to know how to avoid dementia and stay active as you age? The following suggestions from the Alzheimer's Association are based on recent research.

Avoid Brain Injury like concussions (usually from falls related to balance and weak bones).

Get screened for Vitamin B12 deficiency. This is a common cause of memory loss but can be relieved by regular injections from your doctor.

Avoid Depression. This isn't easy when you are elderly, alone and feeling isolated. Help your loved one treat depression

through medical and psychological intervention.

Avoid strokes. Talk to your doctor about signs and symptoms of strokes including small TIA strokes that happen in the blink of an eye.

Use alcohol in moderation.

The fastest growing age group of new alcoholics is in the 65 and over category.

Walk regularly. A recent study showed a 13% decrease in the incidence of Alzheimer's disease for each mile walked weekly.

Maintain an active Social Calendar.

By paying close attention, you will be able to give a great gift for that elderly person you love. Acknowledge any con-

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cerns about memory loss and then create a plan together to avoid the disease process.

Successful aging takes planning and support. Most memory related problems are temporary and can be resolved by talking to a medical professional.

We call this column Senior Moments but we never call memory loss a "senior moment."

By age 85 about half the people will have some form of memory loss, but this means half the people won't have any form of memory loss.

For more information call the Alzheimer's Association at 925-284-7942.

Contra Costa County offers resources on aging. Call them at 1-800-510-2020.

Mike Rose to give away “new” used cars Clayton resident Mike Rose, owner of Mike Rose's Auto Body, Inc. in Concord, Walnut Creek and Pleasanton has joined with other members of the Acoat selected organization to form the Acoat Selected National Benevolence Program. The Benevolence program is a community relations program whose mission is to present refurbished "new" used cars to deserving individuals or organizations during the holiday season.

This will be Mike Rose's third year participating in the program and he will present three "new" used cars to families

in need of reliable transportation.

Mike has spent months getting these vehicles back to their original state and perfectly safe to drive. As an added bonus, Mike's wife, Laurie Rose fills the trunks of the cars with presents for the recipients and their families.

Along with Mike's Auto body employees donating their own time to work on these vehicles, many other local companies have joined in on this quest to give back to our community.

This year there were over 100 applications. The vehicles will be presented to the recipients at Mike Rose's Via De Mercados

location in Concord on Wednesday, December 17.

"I wish I could give 10 cars away, with so many people in need of reliable transportation, I

can only hope that this program spreads like a wild fire and all body shops create a similar program," says Mike Rose.

Pastor Chu and

Holy C ross L utheran C hurch invite you to join us

December 21 at 6 p.m.

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Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 12, 2003

That new computer: Santa’s list Last week we talked about formulating a general idea of the type of computer you would want to consider. This week we’re going to get down to the nuts and bolts and be specific.

You’ll also find a checklist at the bottom that you can take shopping with you. Go ahead cut it out and use it. Be savvy, be specific.

CPU’s have more than one speed: Clock speed and Front Side Bus (FSB) speed. CPU or processor speed is an important but not as important as the manufacturer and the FSB. The FSB is the switch moving data to and from memory.

Nearly all processors are zipping along at 2 Ghz (gigahertz a measure of speed) or more.

WILL CLANEY

TECH TALK

Today’s CPU’s are 10 times faster than three years ago. CPU reliability and compatibility are important measures of CPU performance. In my opinion, Intel makes the most reliable CPU. A CPU bus isn’t a big yellow taxi. FSB determines data trans-

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fer rates, faster is better. FSB speeds are summarized as 400 MHz, 533 MHz, and 800 MHz and relate to the data stream (bus) speed between the CPU and main memory (RAM).

Storage is the amount of disk space you have. Drive sizes are referenced in Giga-bytes (GB).

A larger GB number means more storage. How much you need depends on your application.

Hard Drives are rated in quality, performance (speed) and storage (size). Size matters, however if work involves retrieving lots of files you need a high rotational speed drive, 7200 RPM is good, 10,000 is better. Cache on the drive is important too: get 8MB or greater for “read ahead.”

Video is defined as the vision or picture generator. Two and three-dimensional images (2D & 3D) appear on your monitor after they have been generated in the computer. If you play games, edit videos, watch videos, take tons of photos, work with graphics or otherwise view images you need a 3D-video card.

Display is the monitor and is defined as the device that shows the pictures from the Video card.

Spend money on a great monitor if your viewing time is two or more hours a day. There are two monitor types, the older CRT (tube) and the new LCD flat panel.

RAM is the work area of the

computer. The bigger the work area the more work can get done.

A minimum of 128MB of RAM is needed for Internet applications. 256MB and 512MB are better. Upgrade.

Ethernet network interface is required for broadband. Get it installed now, not later when the DSL or cable guy shows up.

CD ROM burners are great because you can copy disks, make backup copies and send copies to friends. Each copy holds 600MB of data, pictures, music, or video. Great ones offer DVD readers as a combo to watch Blockbuster type movies.

Get inside the games and adventures with big speakers and sub-woofers. Surround sound would be nice and it’s available at reasonable prices. You’ll experience “Middle Earth” like never before.

Get USB 2.0 for digital and video cameras, external storage, printers, scanners, and other dodads for more fun.

Most new computers offer floppy drives as options.

Computer cases come in all shapes, sizes and colors and you should decide early if the ascetics make a difference to your decision. Stay with metal vs. plastic as much as you can for radiation protection. Small cramped cases are hard to modify and make upgrades and repair difficult. Get a 250-watt power

supply or greater for better reliability.

When upgrading your computer plan on buying a new printer. HP’s are my choice because supplies are plentiful. Don’t try to use your old printer, it’s just frustrating.

Software is the essence of the computer. It performs useful work and provides everything from entertainment to Internet access. The primary software building block is the computer’s operating system (O/S). The most common O/S is Microsoft Windows. Stick with the leader.

Microsoft Windows XP is the latest. Get it.

Applications like Office Suites are best when newer, try Microsoft Office 2003. Plan on getting this version with your new computer and you’ll be productive with it for years to come.

By the way, get the CD for the O/S and for the applications.

If your computer crashes you will need to restore the O/S and the applications. I can’t say it enough, get the CD. Computer Check List-Or, So What Am I Really Buying?

Desktop or Laptop Technical Support & Warranty, where?

Intel CPU? Storage Size 40GB at 7200 RPM or more Video On Board for vs. Add in Card for Photo’s, Games,

Graphics, Drawings etc.

Monitor Tube or Flat Panel (LCD) Front Side Bus (FSB) 400MHz, 533MHz and 800Mhz Memory (RAM) 256MB for General Applications; 512MB for Games 1GB for Games and Photo work Double Data Rate RAM (DDR-266MHz Minimum) Networks/DSL & Cable Ethernet USB 2.0 with Four Ports (w/ USB 1.1 compatibility) CD-ROM & Burner Floppy Drive (3-Inch Drive) Case (Mostly Metal for Shielding) Software: O/S Windows XP Home/Pro (get the CD); Microsoft Office 2003 (get the CD); Works Suite (get the CD) Now you’re shopping and making informed decisions.

Understand what you’re getting, get all the goodies you like and have a pleasurable experience with your new computer.

The typical computer and ones that really scream are available from ComputersUSA! your local computer store.

Support the local team. Will is the owner and operator of ComputersUSA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-672-9989.

PG&E tips for safely deep frying your turkey Pacific Gas and Electric Company reminds its customers to be safety conscious if their Christmas menu includes deepfried turkey. Already a popular trend in the South and Midwest, deep-frying turkeys continues to gain popularity in California this holiday season. This fad, however, comes with some inherent fire risks.

PG&E warns customers to

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A quality dining establishment in historic downtown Clayton

Make your Christmas Party, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve dinner reservations, now.

Dining Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 until 9 Champagne Brunch Sundays from 10:30 until 2

672-11333

for reservations

6115 Main Street Clayton, CA 94517

Happy Holidays from The Dynamic Duo 126 El Portal Drive Elegant newer single level with 2,427 square feet and 4 spacious bedrooms/21/2 baths. Formal living room and dining room, gourmet kitchen designed with the entertainer in mind. Large lot with beautiful landscaping, including wonderful outdoor pond and breathtaking views of Mt. Diablo. Located in one of Clayton's most desirable neighborhoods. Enjoy walking to school, access to award winning hiking and biking trails, Mt. Diablo state park and more! Listed at $684,950

1022 Tiffin Drive HELEN RAHIMZADEH STEPHANIE LOPEZ Sharp honest Realtors working for YOU! 925-932-7375 (DIRECT LINE) HELEN 925-932-7329 (DIRECT LINE) STEPHANIE

Location, location! Ready for your family! 4 bdrm, 2 bath single level beauty. Wonderful family room with raised hearth, perfect for bringing your family together. Updated kitchen, formal living room, newer custom Marvin windows, newer roof, newer energy efficient heating and air conditioning. Incredible views of Mt. Diablo, almost 1/3 acre of gorgeous, professionally landscaped yard. Listed at $624,950

avoid deep-frying turkeys on their kitchen range or cook top because the large equipment may not fit securely, and hot oil could spill onto the electric or natural gas range causing a fire.

According to Underwriters Laboratory, the prominent safety organization, customers who insist upon deep-frying their Christmas turkey should always use appropriate equipment.

Turkey fryers are available at many hardware and other department stores. Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors, on level ground, a safe distance from buildings and other combustible materials. Children and pets should be kept away from the fryer when in use and a fire extinguisher should be at the ready.

The holidays are a time to celebrate with family and friends and shouldn’t be complicated with potentially dangerous cooking. Cooks who are unsure how to deep-fry a turkey or don’t have the right equipment shouldn’t experiment with this method.

The bottom line is, if deep-frying a holiday turkey is in your plans this year, make sure you use appropriate equipment, and don’t do it in the house.

December 12, 2003

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Around Town

Page 15

The people of Clayton and what they’re doing

Soccer team sells handmade snowmen

History in the making at Fox and the Fiddle

Lynne French grand opening

D.V.S.C. under 19 girls soccer team, Spitfire, got into the holiday spirit selling handmade wood snowmen in front of Safeway as a fundraiser for their competitive soccer team. From left: Melissa Grimmond, Jen Warner, Chelsea Stegall and Carson Kong.

A bronze marker was placed at the Fox and the Fiddle Restaurant commemorating the historical significance of this popular landmark.

The restaurant, currently owned by Sharon and John Johnston, dates back to the 1870’s. It was the popular La Cocotte restaurant for 25 years and was purchased by the Johnstons in 2002. Above left, Councilman Pete Laurence and John Johnston.

Lynne French Coldwell Banker celebrated the grand opening of new offices at Village Oaks in downtown Clayton. Guests were treated to a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus and refreshments by local restaurants. Jeff and Tracy West of Clayton won the drawing for the Thomas Kindade lithograph. From left: Real Estate agent Ruth Reed, Santa Claus, Lynne French and Mrs. Santa Claus.

Photo courtesy Tery McCade of the Clayton Historical Society.

Toys for Tots at Clayton Station

O’Hara’s Martial Arts opens

Hospice Lights for Life at Clayton Station

Clayton Fire Station 11 helped Cold Stone Creamery in Clayton station conduct a Toys for Tot program last Saturday. A few lucky kids got a chance to ride in the fire engine and take a tour. Santa also paid a visit to the delight of the children and their families.From left: Firefighters Brian Pleke, Bob Piper, Clayton residents Farzan and and his son Stephano Rahimzadeh, Christie Hintzoglou and threemonth-old daughter, Kellie, husband Tim and two-year-old son, Matthew, and Captain Ben Smith.

Nine-year-old Cameron Bacigalupo shows his martial arts form to Tim O’Hara, owner of O’Hara’s Martial Arts studio in Clayton Station.

Cameron has been attending O’Hara’s studio for two years and is preparing for his green belt. The studio is celebrating its grand opening with classes in Kenpo Karate, Yoga, Little Ninja’s, traditional Karate, Pilates and self defense. Future classes include body sculpting, step aerobics and cardio kick boxing. Classes are still being offered at Rising Phoenix in downtown Clayton, also owned by O’Hara.

A special tree lighting took place at Clayton Station in honor of Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa. The tree of lights at the old oak tree near Safeway is a poignant reminder of the invaluable services offered by Hospice in the home or in a skilled nursing facility to seriously ill patients and their families. The ceremony included the Mt. Diablo Elementary School Chorus, comments by former Mayor Pete Laurence, and a welcome by Julie Thomas, Clayton Tree of Lights Chairperson. Lights will be added to the tree in honor a loved one for a suggested donation of $10.

Christmas trees, train rides, Art for Life and more

CV Shopping Center rings in the holiday

A dog day afternoon at Regina’s Sugar Henney of Clayton gave up her morning walk to have her picture taken with Santa Claus. Pet Portraits at Regina’s All Breed Pet Grooming in CV Shopping Center, last weekend attracted cherished pooches of all sizes, shapes and temperaments.

Clayton Valley Shopping Center had its own style of ringing in the holiday season with a safety program, U.S. Marine Corps, Toys for Tots, program, a visit from Santa and other activities. From left: Seven-year-old Christi Kelley and Santa Claus take a moment from their busy schedules to pose for pictures with a local elephant.

Christmas Trees for needy families

Golf team sponsors Toys for Tots Team captain, Carole Hopkins displays the toys collected for the Toys for Tots by the members of the Oakhurst Women’s Golf Team.

“This has been a year of giving,” reports Hopkins. Earlier in the year, the women raised money for breast cancer research. Recently, the team collected clothing and furniture for a family who lost their home and possessions in a recent fire.

The Oakhurst Team took first place in the Diablo Golf League and placed second in the East Bay League. “We’re small, but mighty,” beamed Hopkins. Yashie Uchida claimed the Club Championship. and Sharon Di Grande was named team captain for 2004.

MIKE ROSE’S AUTO BODY Clayton resident, Mike Rose, has been in business for over 31 years and has always provided quality repair with excellent customer service!

Beautifully decorated holiday trees donated by 30 local business were auctioned off at Diamond Terrace Retirement Community last weekend. The

highest bid of $110 by Christy Harris was for the ”Purple Velvet” tree decorated by Ed and Cecelia Hartley, president of CBCA. This fundraiser was co-sponsored by Diamond Terrace Retirement Community and benefits CBCA’s Adopt a Family program. From left: Marketing Director Naomi Gary, Ed and Cecelia Hartley.

CAROL VAN VAERENBERGH

I - CAR GOLD AND ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS APPROVED REPAIR FACILITY FOR ALL MAJOR INSURANCE COMPANIES

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Securities offered through

Investment Corporation Member SIPC

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A Real Estate Professional Specializing in the Clayton Area

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2260 Via De Mercados Concord, Ca 94520 (925) 689-1739

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Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm and Christmas Trees had a busy weekend selling and packaging Christmas Trees, delighting young and old alike with train rides, visits from Mrs. Elf and the Art for Life coloring contest where Christmas cards are colored and decorated for sick children at Children’s Hospital. The program Art for Life is the brainchild of Clayton resident Art Knutson. Pictured, nine-year-old Connor Weirich holding one of his Christmas cards, David Osteen, owner of the Pumpkin Farm, and Mr. Elf.

CLAYTON RESIDENT FOR 10 YEARS

 .  .  www.carolvanvaerenbergh.com

Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

December 12, 2003

When it comes to buying or selling a home in the East Bay Area, trust Lynne French to connect you with your dreams with her distinctive brand of real estate service.

L

6200-E Center St. • Clayton, CA 94517 1801 N. California Blvd. • Walnut Creek, CA 94596

(925) 672-8787 www.LynneFrench.com Lynne@LynneFrench.com

ynne French is making connections every day as one of the East Bay Area’s leading real estate professionals. Connections with her clients and their families on a truly personal level. Connections within her industry to give her clients the most comprehensive home buying and selling services. Connections between her clients and their unique dreams.

Lynne’s approach is straightforward. By listening to you and your

family throughout the process and focusing all of her energy on your specific goals, she goes above and beyond to help you Discover the Possibilities and make the most of your unique opportunities.

Give Lynne French and her team a call or visit her Web site today and discover for yourself what the East Bay Area’s “French Connection” is all about—personalized service, expert guidance and unsurpassed dedication to your needs.

GEORGE VUJNOVICH Broker

(925) 672-4433

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

georgevujnovich.com

FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

SOUTHBROOK

IRONWOOD AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

PENDING

Immaculate & rare one story! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,542 sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage! Upgraded neutral tile, carpet & décor throughout! 4th bedroom/den with upgraded "French" doors & sidelights. Gourmet kitchen with upgraded Corian counters, island & full backsplash, upgraded maple cabinets & tile floors. Family room with fireplace & ceiling fan. Spacious master suite with romantic fireplace & jetted tub! Quiet setting on a large private lot backing to oak studded open space, large custom paver stone patio with columned trellis, lush lawn area & lots of colorful flowers & ornamentals. $699,000

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

PENDING JUST LISTED! Prime ridgeline view lot backs to open space overlooking canyon, rolling hills & oak trees. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths plus den office. Approx.

3,335sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage! Immaculate & extensively upgraded!

Extended 18" tile floor entry, upgraded & extended lighting package. Window coverings include: Silhouettes, plantation shutters & wood blinds. Premium neutral carpet & pad. Family room with fireplace & built-in speakers. Gourmet kitchen with 18" tile floors & color coordinated tile counters. Downstairs master suite with jetted tub. Rear den balcony offers views of hills, canyon & oaks.

Front balcony offers unobstructed panoramic views to Delta & beyond!

Professionally landscaped level lot features aggregate patio, fountain, outdoor speakers & lighting plus an array of colorful flowers & ornamentals. $919,000

Outdoor entertainers dream! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, apx. 2,056sf, 2 car garage plus RV/boat parking. Updated kitchen with parquet floors, neutral tile counters & huge eating nook. Separate formal dining room. Family room with parquet floor, 2 way brick fireplace, built-in display cabinet & slider to patio.

Large living room with 2 way fireplace, built-in display cabinet & slider to patio. Spectacular private backyard features a sparkling in-ground freeform pool, outdoor fireplace/BBQ, full bath for pool users, 2 covered patios, lush mature landscape, built-in bench seating, large gated side yard with storage shed & small garden area. Quiet court setting. $589,000

JUST LISTED! Beautiful home. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,315 sf, 2 car garage + 3rd car tandem or work area option. Upgraded extended 12" tile entry with soaring ceiling. Step down living and dining room with neutral carpet and upgraded window coverings. Gourmet kitchen with upgraded wood laminate floors, tile counters and island, maple cabinets and pantry. Expanded family room with upgraded tile fireplace. Spacious master suite with vaulted ceiling and upgraded fan, cozy bay window sitting area looks out to open space and hills. Large level lot backs to open space with views of oak dotted hills and features custom aggregate patio with brick trim and lush lawn area, maturing trees and a variety of colorful flowers and ornamentals. $599,000

FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

CHAPARRAL SPRINGS AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

PENDING Prime view lot overlooks breathtaking views of hills, oaks, park, valley & golf course to Delta! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths + downstairs den with upgraded "French" doors, apx. 2,843sf, inside laundry room & 2 car garage with storage/workshop option. Immaculate with neutral décor & upgrades in move-in condition! Family room with fireplace, custom built-in media cabinet & crown moulding + views!

Gourmet kitchen with upgraded 18" tile floors, maple cabinets, tile counters & island incl: recipe desk, big sunny window with garden ledge & eating area w/views! Spacious master suite with romantic balcony offering spectacular views to Delta! Level professionally landscaped lot features privacy, trellis covered patio with meandering walkway to front yard, lush lawn, lots of privacy trees, ornamentals, colorful flowers & awe-inspiring views! $719,000

PENDING JUST LISTED! Prime golf course lot backs to 15th fairway! 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, apx. 1,745sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage! Upgraded marble in entry, hall & bath! Full bedroom and bath downstairs. Neutral upgrades & colors throughout! Gourmet kitchen with tile floors & counter. Spacious master suite. Oversized private yard features custom & extensive professional landscaping with Tuscan columns, mature shade tree & incredible views of Mt. Diablo, hills & golf course! $485,000