DEC 13 The Pioneer 2019 by Pioneer Publishers

Oh, deer. Rein-ed out The Annual Concord Tree Lighting and Mayor Sing-a-long has been rescheduled for Sun., Dec. 15. Check our website for details.

December 13, 2019

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Friends and community rally to keep local bookstore open

Just before Thanksgiving, Lynn Kuehl of Berkshire Books in Concord had a medical emergency that cost him a leg and landed him in the hospital for several weeks. Berkshire Books is a oneman operation and without Kuehl on the job, the little neighborhood bookstore on Clayton Road had to close. Things looked pretty dark for a while. But Kuehl has a strong network of friends, and word quickly spread. Concord City Councilman Edi Birsan, who meets at the store with several others on Saturday mornings as the Curmudgeon Club, passed the word to Pioneer publisher Tamara Steiner. She contacted Joel Harris, former owner of Clayton Books, which was itself a popular neighborhood bookstore in the Clayton Station until it closed in 2010. Harris moved fast to pull together the old crew, and last week, the former Tamara Steiner/The Pioneer staff and friends of Clayton A dedicated crew of volunteers is committed to keeping Berkshire Books open while owner Lynn Kuehl (seated, center)

See Berkshire, page 6

recovers from a leg amputation. The volunteers include former Clayton Books owner and local attorney, Joel Harris (standing) Cleo Bolen (left) and Bria Stevens, (right). Bolen is a former Clayton Books customer and Stevens is a student at Diablo Valley College.

Mayors pass the gavel in Concord and Clayton

Outgoing mayor Carlyn Obringer passes the gavel to newly elected Councilmember Tim McGallian in the the Council’s annual reorganization. From left, Councilmembers Laura Hoffmeister, Dominic Aliano, McGallian, Obringer and Edi Birsan.

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Regional Parks Activity Guide What’s Inside

Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B6 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B5

Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 From the Desk of . . . . . . . . .8 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B1 Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Next issue, Jan. 6, Deadline, Jan. 17

Concord and Clayton city councils each elected a new mayor and vice mayor at their Dec. 3 annual reorganization meetings. In Concord, councilmembers elected Tim McGallian to serve as mayor and Dominic Aliano as vice-mayor for one year beginning Dec. 3, 2019. McGallian was City Treasurer from 2015 to 2017. He is past president of the Todos Santos Business Association and founder of the Concord July 4 Festival. He was appointed to the Council in January 2017 and elected to a four-year term in 2018. McGallian repre-

sents District 5. Aliano was elected from District 3 in 2018. Both McGallian and Aliano previously served on the Planning Commission. In Clayton, the Council elected Julie Pierce to serve as mayor next year. This is the veteran councilwoman’s 27th year in the Council and the sixth time holding the gavel. In a departure from tradition, the Council elected first year councilman Jeff Wan as vice mayor. Typically, both the mayor and vice-mayor posi-

See Reorg, page 4

Looking back on a busy 2019 BEV BRITTON The Pioneer

From potholes and pot plants to chickens and crape myrtles, the Concord and Clayton City Councils had their share of debates during 2019. With Concord’s continued battles over rent control and affordable housing, and Clayton’s search for a new city manager coupled with other staff resignations, it kept residents wondering what was next. But there was time for celebrations, too – like the groundbreaking for the Shaivite Hindu temple in Concord and Clayton’s Making a Difference program to honor hard-working volunteers in the community. Here’s a look at some of the stories the Pioneer covered in 2019: JANUARY Pushing for public art: The Concord City Council tried to refocus on public art installations, after the controversial Spirit Poles ended the city’s program more than 20 years ago. The council voted unanimously to develop an ordinance that would require public art as a condition of approval for future projects – but without any fees, as has been discussed. “Public art deals with the soul of the city,” said Councilman Edi Birsan. However, due to staffing changes, the plan was later delayed until 2020. Meanwhile, the council agreed to pursue a utility box beautification project with the Concord Art Association (CAA). After holding a contest with the theme “Music and Market,” the winning artists painted or vinyl-wrapped the boxes over the summer. “We hope Concord

See Year Review, page 6

Causes of homelessness shattering the stereotypes DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

Homeless is hardly a new phenomena in the area. Throughout history people have found themselves resorting to life on the streets due to any number of unforeseen factors and personal choices. The Great Depression of the 1930s and late the Recession of the first decade of the 2000s were notable periods of economic upheaval whose ripple effects were felt among the citizenry of communities of all sizes. For many, the vulnerability that comes with being homeless is by-product of either a single issue or a combination of situations with one trigger-

ing yet another unpredicted hardship. Consider the loss of a job and income source, eviction, foreclosure, and/or bankruptcy, chronic unemployment, the sudden need to care for a loved one after medical emergencies or a prolonged illness, and mental illness or emotional trauma. Such issues have set in motion hard decisions for those who now find the streets or shelters their new homes. In between and more recently, there have been natural disasters that unleashed still more devastation on residents who were forced to begin the arduous task of trying to start over in a shelter, a car, or even a recreational vehicle if they were fortunate to have one.

So what in the past was possibly characterized locally as sporadic or an isolated incident, homelessness now is seeing its numbers increasing and the face of the problem also diversifying. Contra Costa County and its individual communities are now trying to address homelessness the best way they know how as it becomes ever more rooted on the landscape.

BEDS AND SERVICES Jaime Jenett, MPH, Community Engagement Specialist for Contra Costa County’s Health, Housing, and HomeDaniel Scholz less Services Division, John Oliphant, 39, of Antioch, who has been homeless on acknowledged there has always

See Homeless, page 5

and off for the past 7 years, sits for a spell along Arnold Industrial Way before making his way up the road with his friends to the Concord Adult Shelter.

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Woman’s club provides holiday treats for troops

Mural brings whimsy to MDES garden

BEV BRITTON The Pioneer

Thanks to a new mural, the Mt. Diablo Elementary School garden is not only a place where kids can learn about nature – it’s a place to stretch their imaginations. “It’s fun to see the kids put their hands up on the gigantic radishes. It’s like this overgrown forest of plants, so the kids are almost fairysize,” says parent Kristin Descalzo. Working with garden coordinator Laney Cline King, Descalzo came up with the mural concept. “It has this perspective of not just a garden – but what it’s like underground, with worms, ants and gophers,” says

Beth Tyndall, left, added details to Kristin Descalzo’s design for the new mural at Mt. Diablo Elementary School.

Descalzo. A group of volunteers – ranging from second-graders to high schoolers and grand-

mas – got together in early November to paint. At 33 feet long and 7 feet high, the mural makes a big statement

on the Clayton campus. “Our school is so much more beautiful because of your efforts,” noted King, who leads beautification efforts on the campus. Another recent project involved members of Boy Scout Troop 262, who created a willow tunnel structure on the kindergarten playground. Meanwhile, local artist Connie English is working on another mosaic mural for the front of the school. Her previous floral mosaic is outside the school office. “Laney is the driving force behind making all these wonderful things happen,” Descalzo says. “Our school campus is so much more colorful and fun because of her.”

Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Woman’s Club

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Blue Star Moms co-chair Kathleen Horvath, left, co-president Joan Bergum, Blue Star Moms co-chair Kathy Olson and co-president Linda Garden helped create the care packages.

At the monthly meeting on Oct. 8, members of the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club (CVWC) brought items for the Blue Star Mom’s holiday care packages. CVWC “adopted” the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms as a service project in 2006, donating to the care packages sent to our overseas troops for the 4th of July and the holidays. In 2019, CVWC members donated $777 toward postage and supplies. They also prepared 150 creamer/sugar/stir stick packets, folded and stacked more than 800 Sunday comics and sewed 200 patriotic pillowcases for the care packages.

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Throughout the year, CVWC also raises money for Silverwood Elementary School, Friendly Manor, the Lion’s Club, STAND! For Families Free of Violence and the SHARE Food Pantry. Coins collected at meetings help Heifer International and Pennies for Pines. CVWC meets at 10 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. New members are welcome.

For more information, call Joan at 925-672-4597 or Linda at 415-652-3503 or visit claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

Send news items for the Community section to editor@pioneerpublishers.com. Include a high resolution photo in jpg or pdf format. Go to www.pioneerpublishers.com for a deadline schedule.

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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

DANIEL BORSUK Special to the Pioneer

Another remnant of Contra Costa County’s rural past will be bulldozed and transformed into an eight-house subdivision, with gleaming, single-story homes going for $1 million apiece. The 3.6-acre parcel at 5175 Laurel Dr. near Concord dates back to 1912, when Ayers Ranch was established. Pamela Harrell is the current owner of the property. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors voted 4-0 on Oct. 22 to approve the development. District 5 Supervisor Federal Glover of Pittsburg was absent.

According to Lenox Homes president Daniel Freeman, construction of the upscale development is slated to begin in spring 2020. Lots will range from 15,000 sq. ft. to 18,000 sq. ft. “We love the Ayers Ranch area,” Freeman said in reference to its previous developments in the area. “People sought us out for the Laurel Ranch IV subdivision.” Freeman said Lenox Homes will pay $52,800.48 to fulfill the county’s affordable housing requirements established in the county’s Inclusionary Housing Ordinance (IHO). Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, whose District 4 includes the project site, lauded the developer’s payment to the IHO fund.

“Building affordable housing is very expensive, and I don’t believe it would have been fiscally viable for the developer to develop the site with affordable housing,” she said. “By paying the inlieu fees, the county can use those funds to assist in developing housing in sites where more units can be constructed.” The development includes an annexation request to extend wastewater services to the site from the city of Concord. No one spoke either in opposition or in favor of the development at the supervisors’ meeting. However, Michele Iseri, who lives next door at 9902 Malu Lane, questioned the practicality of

Lenox Homes’ proposal for eight $1 million+ homes includes a request to annex the 3.6 acre-parcel to the City of Concord. The parcel is currently in an unincorporated area.

developing the Laurel Drive “This area of Concord is property into eight parcels. very rural and continues to Iseri thinks four parcels have large lots,” Iseri wrote in would be more appropriate. a July 2 letter to the county Department of Conservation

Wells Fargo cuts 350 jobs as lease ends DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

With the closure of Wells Fargo Bank’s last location on Concord Avenue, all of its non-branch operations in Concord will be downtown at Swift Plaza by the first half of 2020. In making this move to streamline operations, the bank is cutting 350 employees at the Customer Contact Center. The financial institution now occupies two Grant Avenue offices totaling 335,000 sq. ft. near the Concord BART Station, with more than 2,000 employees. Starting with one office in 1986 at 1200 Concord Ave., Wells Fargo’s local presence eventually expanded to a second adjacent office space at 1220 Concord Ave. Over time, operations were consolidated at the second location. Knowing the lease on the

Concord Avenue space across from Sam’s Club was set to expire, the company decided in October to shutter that operation. Eligible employees were offered relocation packages to continue with Wells Fargo at other domestic contact centers, including Salt Lake City, Phoenix, San Antonio and Charlotte, N.C. It is not known how many displaced workers have accepted the offers. “This business decision enables us to streamline optimize our contact center operations and locations at a time when our lease term is ending,” said Wells Fargo spokeswoman Andreas Beasley. Impacted employees include those who interact with customers through phone, email, social media and other virtual channels, as well as those who support customer service activities. John Montagh, Concord’s

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economic development manager, points to the “big picture” regarding the consolidation. “There are more employees than in the past, and they are still here,” he said. The Concord Avenue building’s owner, Sierra Pacific Properties, made a significant investment to make it a more attractive destination. Tenants, including Cerus Corp. with more than 100 employees, have signed leases at 1220 Concord Ave. Cerus took over about 85,000 sq. ft., moving from around the corner at a location along Stanwell Street. According to Breck Lutz, exclusive agent with Swift Real Estate Partners, a pair of deals for 60,000 and 75,000 sq. ft., respectively, are in the works to fill the 1220 Concord Ave. space vacated by Wells Fargo. Chicago Title, Fidelity Title, Contra Costa County Retirement Association, AIG and

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Jensen Hughes have already leased space. These changes on the commercial real estate front comes as the vacancy rate in Concord for Class A office space sits at 20 percent. According to Montagh, Concord is in competition with other communities along the 680 corridor that are seeking to attract businesses to their office stock. “If tenants want to be central-located, with amenities and a reverse commute for employees, Concord shines bright for those requirements,” he said. Lutz noted that another 125,000 sq. ft. of office space is available at Swift Plaza if Wells Fargo needs more room. However, Beasley said there are no discussions about closing other East Bay locations and shifting those jobs to Concord.

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and Development. “I would be very disappointed to see large scale (8 homes, small lots) added to this community. I hope my wishes can be considered and the neighbors could possibly build a much smaller, more intimate community of 4 homes, all single story as to not ruin the aesthetics of the area. If the people want to live in tract homes, there are many other parts of the city.” Justin Rhodes, who has lived across the street from the site for 40 years, is “on the fence” about the development. “I’m for the improvements, and my property values will go up as will my taxes, especially when the city annexes the land across the street.”

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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

December 13, 2019

Supervisor eyes County Clerk job Disgusted with the latest in a string of elected officials behaving badly, District 4 County Supervisor Karen Mitchoff said she plans to apply for County Clerk and Registrar of Voters to “bring ethical and moral integrity back to the office.” . Former Clerk Joe Canciamilla resigned suddenly Oct. 31 and faces possible criminal charges for spending more than $130,000 in campaign funds for personal uses in 2011, 2014 and 2015, and was fined $150,000 by the Fair Political Practices Commission. Canciamilla had three years left on his term. The Board of Supervisors will appoint a successor to fill the spot until the 2022 elections.

Canciamillia is the second high profile elected official to resign in disgrace in two years. Former DisKAREN MITCHOFF trict Attorney Mark Peterson resigned after the FPPC fined him $45,000 for spending $65,000 of campaign funds on personal uses. Peterson pleaded no contest to perjury and was disbarred. In June, the Contra Costa County Grand Jury formally accused County Assessor Gus Kramer of “willful and corrupt” misconduct for a history of creating a hostile work environment. “I’m tired of the legal and ethical problems associated with three of our six department heads,” Mitchoff told The Pioneer.

Mitchoff is in her third term and plans to retire in 2022. She has had two clean audits as supervisor and has served as treasurer for three other candidates, all with clean audits. “Here’s a way to have an open election in 2022,” Mitchoff said. “Which is the next best thing if we can’t have a special election.” The Board will announce its decision on Jan. 21, 2020. Should Mitchoff be appointed, Governor Newsom will appoint her successor to serve until the 2022 election. Concord Councilmember Edi Birsan has signaled his interest if filling Mitchoff ’s spot.. “If Karen is appointed, I will pound down the governor’s door,” Birsan said. “I will do anything to get it.” “I was going to run for it in 2022 anyway.”

Next year will be a pivotal year for our democracy that will impact communities in Contra Costa County for years to come. This is not only because 2020 is an election year, it is also a census year. In March, every household in America will be asked to answer the 2020 census. How residents of Contra Costa County respond will affect our county’s civic representation and revenue for the next decade. The census is a government survey occurring every 10 years, asking basic questions like age, name, race and ethnicity about each person living in

your household. The 2020 census is nine questions and will be conducted almost entirely online. Everyone counts in the census: babies, people experiencing homelessness, immigrants, seniors and formerly incarcerated individuals. This will mark the first time the census will be conducted online, although people can still answer via mail and phone. Starting in mid-March, households will receive a postcard in the mail with a unique code inviting them to fill out the census online. Most people can respond online, by phone or by mail between March and April 2020. Households who do not respond by April 30, 2020, will

be visited by a census taker between May and July. Your census responses are protected and confidential. It is against the law to disclose or publish any private information identifying an individual or business. Furthermore, the

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from page 1

Clayton Mayor Julie Pierce and Vice-mayor Jeff Wan.

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Newly appointed Clayton City Manager, Ikani Taumoepeau, took time out from unpacking at his new home in the Highlands, to visit with CBCA members at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, Dec. 7 at Diamond Terrace. Taumoepeau’s first official day on the job was Dec. 9. Look for a full profile of the new city manager in the January issue. From left, Mayor Julie Pierce, Taumoepeau, Councilmembers Jim Diaz and CW Wolfe.

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tions rotate along seniority lines and Councilman Jim Diaz would have been the expected choice. Diaz, however, just served as mayor in 2017, leaving the two first-year councilmembers, Wan and CW Wolfe next in rotation. “Wan had more votes in the last election,” Pierce explained. “And while the number of votes has not been a policy in the past, it was a factor this year.” “I'm grateful for the (Council’s) support,” Wan said. “And I hope to learn as much as I can as vice mayor while continuing to represent all the residents of the great city of Clayton.”

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Page 5

Survey thoughts on a convention center, cannabis

EDI BIRSAN PULSE OF

CONCORD

The fifth survey of the year is out at pulseofconcord.com with questions on aspects of the community such as: Is Concord undergoing gentrification? Is it good or bad? Do campaign contribution influence a change in City

Council votes? I am also continuing the thread on crime from the last few surveys, this time asking about the effectiveness and costs of police services. Please participate; it only takes four minutes. Meanwhile, from the fourth survey, there is a divide over the question of a convention center to host up to 5,000 people: 13 percent, strongly agree – and even more than 5,000 people. 9, strongly agree. 16, agree. 16, neither agree nor disagree. 19, disagree. 18, strongly disagree. 9, very strongly disagree – and do not like having 5,000 people at the Todos Santos Thursday concerts. So 38 percent are in favor,

Census, from page 4

Census Bureau is not allowed to share personal information with others, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), police, landlords and other government agencies. Unlawful disclosure by a Census Bureau worker is punishable by $250,000, imprisonment up to five years, or both. The 2020 census is easy, safe and more important than ever. Data collected from the

census is used to make key policy and budget decisions. The census determines how much representation our community receives at all levels of government down to the local level and informs how we redraw our electoral districts. The same data is used to allocate $1.5 trillion in federal funding for programs like Medicaid, WIC, Section 8, SSI and more. Census data also helps govern-

Homeless, from page 1

been people in the community who are unsheltered. But she cited the Reagan Era in the 1980s as the notable recent period that officials point to as a defining moment for homelessness as a visible concern. She explained that financial support for mental health facilities was cut and many facilities were closed as a result. This led to many individuals who could not support themselves and desperately needing services these facilities provided fending for themselves on the streets. Data gathered by the county in the last five years in its annual Point of Time survey of homelessness bears out the growing countywide problem, according to Homeless Continuum of Care 2018 Annual Report. With the exception of a dip in the 2016-17 period, the trend line has been steadily rising since 2014, and it took a sharp jump by 2019 to punctuate the 43 percent increase in homelessness countywide during the period. On any given night this past year, upwards to 2,295 individuals experienced homelessness somewhere in the county. Despite the desire to help those seeking shelter, existing shelter capacity met only 28 percent of the need for single adults Ensuring the availability of adequate services is a challenge that goes hand-in-hand with merely providing the homeless with a place to rest their heads in an enclosed and safe environment. The rising need for services was reflected in the 47 percent increase in persons accessing services between 2017 and 2018. Jenett pointed to renter protections, building more affordable housing, and making it assessible to mass transit as the biggest steps that can be taken to stop homelessness. Where one struggles to keep a roof over head, she cited the widening gap that can’t be fill due to insufficient income. She pointed to the challenge facing renters: they need to earn 4 times the state minimum wage to afford the median monthly asking rent of

$2,250. For struggling senior citizens in particular, which Jenett termed ``the silver tsunami’’, homelessness for 60-80 year old is a result of price sensitivity and the inability to find extra income and bring in new income to fill the financial gap.

`FACE OF HOMELESS IS ME AND YOU’ The presence of the homelessness around Concord has steadily increased in the last five years from 114 in 2015 to 252 in 2018, and 350 this year. In period of 2016 to 2017, the data identified in the PIT survey (73 to 133) corresponded with the Outreach and East County Service Center closing, which lead to more seeking individuals seeking services in the Concord area. The changing face of homeless through the years reflects the breath of the discussion taking place about the topic, said Brenda Kain, Housing Manager for the City of Concord, who acknowledged more discussion about homelessness than 10 years ago, and greater public awareness now than 15 years ago. ``It is a tough subject that is close to my heart,’’ she said. “I have been there a time or two in my life; I was close to being homeless.’’ While the conversation has inherently changed too with more varied responses, those who hold to the stereotypes about why someone is homeless is an attitude that persists. “It depends where you stand on the issue and how informed you are,’’ said Kain. “In our neighborhoods we don’t know about what goes on behind closed doors.’’ So the work continues to track the reasons why people are ending up homeless and this dilemma is a heartbeat away. Homelessness runs the gamet in the county’s 2018 annual Continuum of Care report. The numbers increased in Adults w/disabilities: 22 percent, Single adults: 26 percent, Seniors (62+): 97 percent, while declines occurred for Veterans: 11 percent Families: 16 percent Transition Age

46 percent opposed and 16 percent in the middle. Who are these people that are opposed to the Thursday night concerts? Looking at the origin, they are scattered in the zip codes and the only profile I can see is that there is an overlap in being opposed to everything. I wonder if they are the same ones who are opposed to the 15,000-18,000 people who go to the July 4th events? The City Council has had a significant shift in attitudes towards cannabis dispensaries, with a 3-2 majority now in favor of the establishment of dispensaries. In the survey, people responded somewhat stronger when asked if an adult use dispensary is acceptable in Concord: 38 percent, strongly agree. 21, agree. 8, neither agree nor dis-

agree. 4, do not care. 11, disagree. 18, disagree strongly. That’s 59 percent to 29 percent, or a little more than 2-1 in favor. I have an ongoing fascination with what it takes to change someone’s position on an issue. There were several questions on this, and it revealed that on major issues like cannabis and crime, a solid 25-30 percent of people say that absolutely nothing that is known or believed will change their minds on the subject. Facts and testimonials by experts will have no effect. We see this reflected on national and even global issues, be it politics or perceptions of science. I wonder if this is a constant thread. Or maybe 3,000 years ago, the percent was

ments understand where to build hospitals, schools, businesses and roads. It is vital that every resident in Contra Costa County respond to the census, so our communities can get their fair share of the funds to improve our services and infrastructure. “Our county could lose between $500 million to $1.1 billion over 10 years if we undercount by even 5 percent,” said Contra Costa County District III Supervisor Diane Burgis.

“Each person not counted in the census is a loss of $1,000 to $2,000 each year for the next 10 years,” added Burgis, who is chair of the county’s Complete Count Steering Committee. The Census Bureau is also looking to recruit 600 people in Contra Costa County by the end of the year. Interested individuals can apply now at 2020census.gov/jobs. For more information about the census and Contra Costa County’s efforts, visit cococensus.org.

Youth: 25 percent. “The face of homeless is me and you,’’ Kain said. GROWING AWARENESS FOR COLLABORATION

Concord Police Sgt. Summer Galer, district commander with the department’s Community Impact Unit, said there is `”no cookie cutter answer’’ for the best way for serving the homeless during a routine encounter or if this has resulted from a call for service. Standard procedure always involves offering services to the homeless, including contact with a CORE Homeless Outreach Team. But some officers may also offer of cups of coffee when engaging these individuals. She disputed the homeless label, saying those they are seeing have mainly been kicked out their parents’ homes. PIT data for Clayton mirrors this observation as zeroes appeared for some years for those without shelter. What few homeless are observed take refuge in the Clayton Station tunnel by the Safeway store. And, one encampment that went up was quickly dispersed. Residents tend to be weary of the homeless, and business owners are irritated. So keeping up the constant contact is her department’s practice to keep the homeless on theirs toes and reduce chances of aggressiveness. Warren said this population is typically compliant with her officers, who also offer them services available through the county. “As long as we keep having the resources going in that way, we will be okay,’’ Warren said. Jenett lauded how law enforcement is addressing homelessness. “You’re not going to arrest your way of this problem,’’ she said. “There is a growing awareness for collaboration and coming up with creative solutions.’’ “Everyone is recognizing that this issue impacts everyone and we can’t just make it go away,’’ she added. Kathy Gleason, who regards herself as a local resident who cares about her neighbors living on the street, has taken it upon herself to

higher, which would at least give us some hope for rationality (which in this case means the ability to change views based on facts). However, the scary view is that in the past it was lower and that means we as a species are becoming more emotionally irrational. Let us look at our lifetime experiences and ask ourselves if people are becoming entrenched in positions that are not impacted by rational factors, and whether this benefits society. Are we headed in the direction of reinforcing a trait that will reduce the sur-

vivability of humanity? When I look at national politics, I am very worried. The statements, questions, information and opinions herein are those of Edi E. Birsan personally and do not purport to reflect any policies or opinions of the City of Concord, including without limitation the Concord City Council, city of Concord staff, or any other people, institutions or organizations associated with the city of Concord.

Send comments to EdiBirsan@gmail.com or 510-812-8180.

How interest rate cuts will affect housing market

increase with rising interest rates. The cuts, though, increase confidence in the economy. I feel this is good news for the housing market, at least for the near future.

Q: Will it be a buyers’ or sellers’ market in 2020? A: I would consider 2020 to be a balanced market. Prices remain quite high and inventoLyNNE FrENCH ry is still a little tight, so buyers REAL ANSWERS can take advantage of lower interest rates and sellers can Q: What’s up with take advantage of the fact that interest rates? inventory is still low. A: Last week, the Fed According to a National help the homeless she announced another anticipated Association of Realtors survey, observes in her travels about interest rate cut, the third since 63 percent of buyers feel optithe area. Blankets are shared in July, and again by a quarter mistic. As for confidence, 52 the winter, and she passes out point adding to the 1.5 percent percent believe the economy is cold bottles of water during to 1.75 percent range. stable. the summer months. The Fed will continue to The association anticipates Among those she assists is watch the economic landscape, 2020 to continue to shift away 33-year-old Granville Dunlevy, which it says has a strong labor from a sellers’ market, especiala former resident of the Pitts- market and activity that has ly if the gross domestic prodburg / Bay Point area, whose been rising at a moderate rate, uct (GDP) slows and inventory life suffered a downward spiral and expects to proceed as ticks up. in the past decade that epito- planned to sustain growth. If the property is priced mizes the various struggles “We see the current stance right, it can still be a sellers’ many in his situation have of monetary policy as likely to market. Appreciation will still endured. remain appropriate as long as occur at the lower price points. Her awareness for the incoming information about As people look at the limit on plight of the homeless and the the state of the economy factors that force them on remains broadly consistent with tax deductibility of mortgage interest, state and local taxes hard times came while work- our outlook,” Federal Reserve and property tax, the upper-end ing at the Food Bank of Con- chair Jerome Powell told price projection is less optitra Costa & Solano. reporters. mistic. On the lower end, “I feel both sympathy and He also said that there frustration regarding home- could be a shift in future policy demand will remain solid, given that we have low rates and job lessness. Many of these people that would pause interest rate creation. cannot fend for themselves cuts. People buy homes because and should not be on the According to a new Fed they’re both an investment and streets. I feel frustrated that rate survey, 71 percent were in a place to live. Right now, if local, state and federal govern- favor of a cut before the deciyou find a property and bargain ment has not done enough to sion was made and 57 percent aggressively to get a good price, solve the problem,’’ Gleason believed it would benefit the you should move there and stay said. economy. The report suggests for a long period of time. Then The reality now is home- the rate cut will not significantly enjoy your home. lessness is a full blown prob- impact loan originations and lem that will require creative housing purchases, as historical Send your question and look for your and bold solutions and greater data shows the Fed’s rate hikes answer in a future column. Email collaboration than ever before have more influence than inter- Lynne@LynneFrench.com. Contact her to stem the tide that is now - est rate cuts. at 925.672.8787 or stop in at 6200 for better or worse - representThough it might seem sur- Center St., Clayton. ing a permanent place in area prising, housing purchases communities.

Page 6

Year Review, from page 1

residents and visitors will enjoy these vibrant works of art for years to come,” said CAA president Catherine Hensiek. Revising rules for renters: Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer and Councilman Dominic Aliano launched an ad hoc rent committee to review state and local requirements regarding tenant/landlord responsibilities and existing housing needs within the city. “We need to make sure that moving forward, we identify what we’re trying to get at here – the high cost of rents and landlords abusing their position when it comes to increasing rents outrageously,” Aliano said. In June, the council heard the committee’s report and directed staff to work on rental housing policy options. According to community relations manager Jennifer Ortega, the council is tentatively set to review the plans on Feb. 11, 2020. A day of religious rituals: In a daylong celebration, Shiva Murugan Temple broke ground Jan. 26 for a new Shaivite Hindu temple at Concord Boulevard and Second Street. The temple design team worked with the Concord Design Review Board for two years before final approval. Followers of Lord Shiva and his son, Lord Murugan, first established a temple in San Francisco in 1957 and moved to Concord in 1988. “We take pride and joy in the fact that beautiful Concord has been inclusive and welcoming of our temple,” said Meena Annamalai, director of temple construction. In November, a temple official told the Pioneer the project is expected to be complete in late 2020. FEBRUARY Helping out Regency residents: The Clayton City Council voted 3-2 to designate fee-based, resident-only permit parking on

would forever change the city. The IENA gives the developer 18 months to conduct market Regency Drive on weekends, studies. because too many eager Mt. DiaAPRIL blo hikers were clogging the A long and winding road: area. The city first added signage to discourage parking and Members of the Concord City increased police patrols last year, Council and Planning Commisbut it wasn’t enough. The pilot sion held a joint meeting April 2, permit program launched this as the city continued its discusOctober. “It seems to be going sion of cannabis regulations. well,” police Chief Elise Warren Talking points included nontold the Pioneer in late Novem- storefront delivery businesses, ber. “We’re still writing tickets on retail sales and manufacturing. the weekends to violators, but Over the summer, 474 people that number is going down each responded to a city survey – with week so it seems the outsiders the majority supporting retail are kind of figuring it out.” cannabis businesses in a variety Councilwoman Julie Pierce of areas. In November, the noted that the parking crunch council reviewed and refined could become noticeable again cannabis ordinances that they when the waterfalls are running expect to approve in early 2020. next spring. The council will The council decided to keep reevaluate the program after a retail storefronts out of Todos Santos Plaza, while asking staff 15-month trial. Taking it to the streets: to draft regulations for up to The Concord City Council allo- three recreational storefront cated an additional $400,000 for licenses. Aliano asked residents pothole repairs. The money was to “have faith” that the city will a one-time general fund residual act in the community’s best because the city collected more interest on this contentious than expected from the half-cent issue. Clayton’s guiding light: At sales tax. “I think it’s very clear and evident that our roadways, the April 2 City Council meeting, especially the potholes and some Clayton city manager said he of these small little pavement would retire in July. As a token of failures areas, are irking our appreciation, the council community,” said Council- declared July 26 as Gary Napper woman Laura Hoffmeister. The Day. “For the last 18 years, the vote came after what Birsan city of Clayton has benefited called a “gloom and doom” from Gary Napper’s professionreport detailing how the city’s al, diligent, humble and caring roads could continue to deterio- leadership,” Mayor Tuija Catalano wrote in her Pioneer colrate. umn. “Without a doubt, Napper deserves a lot of credit and MARCH Soccer stadium as a city thanks for all of the positives in center: The Concord City Clayton today.” Joe Sbranti was interim city Council entered into an Initial Exclusive Negotiating Agree- manager as the council hired a ment (IENA) with Hall Equities recruiting firm to find a replaceGroup to bring a professional ment. The council also posted a soccer stadium to the city’s community survey online to downtown. The proposal seek input from residents about includes hotels, a convention qualifications and characteristics. center, multi-family housing and After reviewing 33 applicants, retail or commercial develop- the mayor announced in ment. Many residents spoke out November the hiring of Ikani against the project, saying it Taumoepeau – the assistant city manager for Santa Paula. A vote for local labor: After months of review, the Concord City Council voted against AvalonBay’s mixed-used project on “the white picket fence proper7 p.m. every day except Mon- ty” on Galindo Street. Because days through Dec. 22 at 3480 the three-acre parcel is cityClayton Road. owned, the council wanted to To celebrate, there is a huge mandate union hires and prevailsigning event on Saturday, ing wages for the housing/retail Dec. 14, with both children’s project. Despite multiple reviand adult book authors – sions that including adding including Daniel San Souci. affordable housing units, AvalHarris will be there signing onBay’s proposal did not sway copies of his book, “Images of the council. “This is public propAmerica: Concord.” For addi- erty – we have to satisfy a public tional details, go to benefit,” Birsan said. He said the facebook.com/joel.a.harris.7 council needed to go back to the or pioneerpublishers.com. Request For Proposal (RFP) “Berkshire Books has a stage “and remind everyone great collection of new gift involved that we’re in it together books, local history books, for a quality project that benefits holiday books, journals, col- Concord.” Ortega said the counlectibles and other gifts for the cil’s Housing and Economic holidays,” Harris says. “So Development Subcommittee please come support your local reviewed the RFP for the Town bookstore.” Center II site in August and Harris says the crew could November and plans to look at it use a little more help. To pitch again on Dec. 16. in, contact joelharris@aol.com Capitalizing on communior lynn@berkshire- ty contributions: Building on books.com. the city’s Do the Right Thing

Berkshire, from page 1

Books, including store manager Bob Pimm and Harris, reopened Berkshire Books and will keep the store running while Kuehl recovers. Although limited in movement, Kuehl was on hand for the store’s reopening Thurs., Dec. 5. The cheerful bookseller suffered aneurisms and blood clots in both legs resulting in the amputation of one leg. Doctors were able to save the other by placing a stent in the artery. Kuehl expects to begin training for a prothesis in about three weeks. Undaunted by the experience, the 65-year-old noted the alternative. “I either lose the leg or die,” he said. “The choice was easy.” Harris, who has known Kuehl as a friend and colleague, has volunteers lined up to keep the store open 10 a.m.-

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com program for students, the Clayton City Council launched a pilot Making a Difference program for adults. “Many people in Clayton regularly extend themselves to make a difference, without thought of recognition. They inspire the rest of us to do better,” Catalano wrote in her Pioneer column. The program recognizes adults based on different themes – starting with an outstanding teacher, mentor and/or coach award. The pending theme is for an exemplary community contributor, giver and/or benefactor.

MAY Ease on down the road: Work began this month on a $14 million northbound truck lane project on Kirker Pass Road. The plan includes a 12-foot truck lane and an 8-foot paved shoulder for one of Contra Costa County’s most traveled commute routes. Chris Wikler of county Supervisor Karen Mitchoff ’s office said completion is expected in September 2020. Commuters are also waiting to see results of the $136 million Interstate 680/State Route 4 interchange improvement project, which started in January 2019. “No new lanes are operational, but the project is moving forward and there should be a major traffic switch in late spring 2020,” Wikler told the Pioneer in November. A proud moment: A crowd gathered to celebrate the raising of the LGBTQ Pride flag at Concord City Hall on May 31. The council voted to fly the flag all of June for Pride Month. “It’s about diversity, inclusiveness, tolerance and coming together, especially during these troubling times,” said Jack RednourBruckman, executive director of the Rainbow Community Center. JUNE Campus considerations: Just days after Concord’s Blue Ribbon Committee presented ideas for a “multi-versity” at the former Naval Weapons Station, the city became one of five sites being studied for a possible new state campus. Obringer later led a delegation to meet with Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis about the Concord campus district and the Cal State University feasibility study. “I will continue to seek support to build a public university campus to be the focal point for research, innovation and good jobs for our community,” Obringer posted on Facebook after the Dec. 2 meeting. The state report is due by June 30, 2020. Troublesome forecast: The Concord City Council approved a balanced biennial operating budget after dipping further into General Fund reserves and using more Measure Q funds. “It’s not a sexy time to be a council member, because this budget is really scary,” Aliano said. As the city looks toward future budget woes, the council advocated community outreach – especially regarding a potential

December 13, 2019 increase to the half-cents Measure Q sales tax in 2020. Things are looking better in Clayton, where the city’s midyear budget report reflected a strong fiscal standing. “Other cities would love to be in our position,” Pierce said. Celebrity status: Clayton Valley High School grad Kyle Newacheck directed “Murder Mystery,” which tallied 30.9 million views for the biggest opening weekend in Netflix history. “It’s wild to have that many people watching the shots that I chose and the takes that I chose and the rhythms that I chose,” Newacheck said of the film, starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. The movie’s soundtrack includes music from CV alums Jay Whitlatch and Jeremy Wells. They aren’t the only locals making it big in Hollywood. Sixyear-old Mateo Garcia of Clayton signed autographs at a private showing of “40: The Temptation of Christ” in Concord on March 5. Mateo Ray, as he is known in movie circles, portrayed the young Jesus. And this fall, Clayton resident Makenzie Lee-Foster appeared at the Clayton Library for her new book, “Kickin’ It with Kenzie: What’s Meant for Me Will Be!” The 8-year-old also plays young Deja on the TV series “This is Us.”

JULY Fifty years strong: Concord went all out to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first Concord Jazz Festival. The 1969 festival in what is now Dave Brubeck Park led to the Concord Jazz record label in 1973 and the opening of the Pavilion in 1975. “All That Jazz” was the theme of the 2019 4th of July parade, honoring grand marshal Ellen Findlay Herdegen – who played several roles in establishing the city’s jazz legacy. That was followed on Aug. 3 by a star-studded, sevenhour celebration for 9,000 concertgoers at the Concord Pavilion. “This was a great celebration of what started 50 years ago by Carl Jefferson,” said Concord Records president John Burk. “It’s almost hard to describe my feelings how all things – artistically, audience turnout and the venue – came together.” Preserving parkland: The East Bay Regional Park District accepted 2,216 acres of former Concord Naval Weapons Station from the Navy for a future regional park. “This is a proud moment for the park district and shows the great power of persistence and working together with the community,” said Beverly Lane, who has represented Concord on the park board since 1994. Park development is expected to take several years. AUGUST In search of a chief: Concord Police Chief Guy Swanger announced his retirement after nine years in the post. “The department is in a good place. We have a good City Council,” he said. “I just think it’s time.” Ortega said the city is working with a recruiting firm, with interviews expected in January and a

hire in spring 2020. Residents can offer opinions about the job qualifications at opentownhall.com/8045 until Dec. 20. Swanger said he will stay on until the city finds a replacement. Pistache problems: After hearing about liability issues due to sidewalk cracking, the Clayton City Council voted to remove six Chinese pistache trees that were bursting out of planter boxes on Main Street. The city contracted with Kerex Engineering to replace them with 24-inch box crape myrtles, while also running electricity to the tree wells for lights as well as electrical access for downtown events. The project is expected to start midDecember. SEPTEMBER Coasting along: At the Sept. 10 Concord City Council meeting, Economic Development manager John Montagh expressed optimism about a deal with the Coast Guard to purchase 58 acres for a mixedincome residential project. Ortega told the Pioneer in late November that the city is still in negotiation with the General Services Administration, which represents the Coast Guard. The city plans to work with DeNova Homes to develop the site. A new 911 option: The Concord Police Department launched a 911 texting system, targeted at people who are hearing or voice impaired or are incapable of talking due to a medical emergency. Sgt. Kevin Halm expects it will be used “fairly infrequently,” noting that phones calls are still the best way to reach emergency services.

OCTOBER Faith communities in transition: Father Mathew Vellankal, the pastor of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Concord, died in a car accident in Colusa County on Oct. 10. “He was such a gem, easy going and very humble,” said William Gall, a deacon at St. Bonaventure. “He was very collaborative and encouraging and had so much energy.” Father Oscar Rojas is the interim parochial administrator. Meanwhile, parishioners at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Concord marked a new era as Father Marin State, who led the congregation for 20 years, stepped aside – making way for his son, Father Michael State. “When the possibility presented itself, it was extremely exciting and humbling,” the younger pastor said.

NOVEMBER Hen hospitality: The Clayton City Council finalized an ordinance on Nov. 19 that will allow residents in most singlefamily homes to keep up to 10 hens – but no roosters. “It’s time we do this,” Pierce said. “It has become far more commonplace throughout the county.” Truth be told, there were probably many hens already pecking about in the city’s backyards. Now those chickens can enter 2020 with their heads held high.

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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517

TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C Ruz , Graphic Design, Social Media B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor, Calendar Editor J Ay B EDECARRé, Sports Editor, Schools Editor S TAFF W RITERS : Jay Bedecarré, Bev Britton C ORRESPONDENTS : Kara Navolio, David Scholz

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sports@pioneerpublishers.com The Pioneer is a monthly publication delivered free to homes and businesses in 94517, 94518, 94519 and 94521. ZIP code 94520 is currently served by drop site distribution. The papers are published by Clayton Pioneer, Inc., Tamara and Robert Steiner, PO 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. The offices are located at 6200 Center St. Suite F, Clayton, CA 94517 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit let-

Can you write? The Pioneer is looking for reporter/feature writer. Love The Pioneer? Can you write? We are looking for an experienced reporter/feature writer with a lively and sophisticated style to help cover Concord and Clayton news, events and people. This is a free-lance spot for a monthly PRINT (yes, I said PRINT) newspaper and typically requires one or two stories per issue. See what we do at www.pioneerpublishers.com.

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Page 7

Letters to the Editor Need Affordable Housing There is a shortage of affordable housing and my 3 adult children feel stressed about it. This worries me as a mother every day and I know I’m not alone. The cost of housing is at an all-time high where even with an education and a good paying job there isn’t enough to pay rent, food, medical, clothing, utilities and car expenses. I have a daughter with developmental disabilities. Finding a suitable and affordable home for her has been a challenge over several years. She lives on less than $1000/month. Her living

situation can change on a dime. My son, who has roomed shared and even lived in a converted garage paid outrageous rents. Still, he needs to come home to eat from time to time. My youngest daughter is 24, lives at home, has a degree and will also be challenged with housing. Things have changed; anxiety is high. My kids, your kids and people on fixed incomes are faced with few housing options. I hear you and I fully support the development of affordable housing anywhere that it can be accommodated because homelessness is not acceptable. Dee Viera Clayton

No retail pot Pioneer reporter David Scholz did a very good job summarizing the November 5 Concord city council discussion regarding cannabis retail. The city is indeed divided on this issue and the council is trying to find a middle ground. I spoke in opposition to recreational retail sales in Concord, particularly smoking and vaping products. These products are hazardous to the health of users and those around them - and most especially harmful to young people. I am happy the council will be locating retail storefronts far away from most neighborhoods and schools. I am also happy the council is using a process (RFP) which requires

advance public notice and a majority council vote on specific sites and operators. This high level of public scrutiny and city council accountability increases my confidence only highly qualified retailers will be selected. We certainly can approve one or two well run medicinally focused cannabis stores without harming our reputation as a family friendly city. However, we should not allow recreational retail storefronts focused on selling high volumes of harmful and intoxicating smoke and vape products in our city. Let other cities have that business. Concord should remain a city where families come first. Mike McDermott Concord

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and seeing sunlight stream through the trees. Or, you could play a racing game. To have the VR experience, you need to own a great PC. Not an ordinary computer you picked up on sale, but something that meets specific conditions. Not all computers will meet the advanced requireWILL CLANEy ments. According to Oculus, “All Oculus Ready machines TECH TALK undergo a 100 point certificaAre you ready, or should I tion test by our world-class ask are you Oculus Ready? quality assurance team. Each Perhaps the hottest gift PC must pass this series of one could get this holiday sea- tests multiple times over a son is the Oculus Rift S, a two-week testing period and device that is like driving a then, only then, are the best Formula 1 racecar. ready, Oculus Ready.” According to Digital Beginning Jan. 14, 2020, Trends, “VR, or virtual reality, Oculus will stop supporting has gone from a science ficthe Rift platform on Windows tion concept to a broad mar- 7 and 8.1 to align with ket of consumer devices in Microsoft’s ending of support just a short span of years. It’s for Windows 7. no surprise some of us have The minimum requirement whiplash.” is a PC running Intel i5 CPU, If you do not know what 8GB RAM, super-fast SSD VR is, here’s a brief primer with 40+GB of free space, 3 from Digital Trends: “Virtual USB 3.0 ports and a great reality technology seeks to graphics card. A custom-built create a realistic, three-dimen- computer is your best choice. sional image or environment I wouldn’t recommend a stanthat a human can perceive as dard laptop for this endeavor; real, and even interact with in however, a game machine may realistic ways. Obviously, we do the trick, albeit a bit slow. aren’t at Holodeck levels of I recommend Walmart for realism yet, but consumers do the best price, along with their have easy access to VR head- great warranty, for the Oculus sets and controllers.” device, and a local custom That means you have to builder for the compliant attach a device to the USB computer. port on your computer, put a We at ComputersUSA headset on and fire up an wish all of you a great holiday environment created by soft- season and hope your new ware. Suddenly you see a dis- year is successful, fruitful and play – as if you were standing full of love. Thanks for your in the environment you just support. created. Say you ask the computer William Claney is an independent to create a forest, replete with tech writer and former owner of Comflora and fauna. There you puters USA in the Clayton Station. are, walking around, having Email questions or comments to willbirds eating out of your hand claney@gmail.com.

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F r om the desk o f . . .

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December 13, 2019

Concord mayor ready for new challenges

Farm Insurance. Being a servant leader in the community has been my cornerstone over the last 15 plus years. My community activities include founding the Concord July 4th Festival and Fireworks, president of the TIM MCGALLIAN Todos Santos Business Asso(TSBA) Arts FoundaCONCORD MAYOR ciation tion, past president of KiwaI am honored to have been nis Club of Concord and the selected by my City Council St. Agnes School Board, colleagues as your new mayor coaching Concord American for the year ahead. Little League and CYO basFor those who do not ketball and track and field, and know much about my backassistant scoutmaster for Boy ground, please allow me to Scout Troop 465. Currently, I introduce myself. I was born work with Clayton Valley and raised in San Leandro. High School’s track and field After graduating from CSU team as the throws coach. Sacramento, my wife and I My passion for public moved to Concord in 2004. service led me to leadership Professionally, I am a business roles with the Concord Chamlines consultant for State ber of Commerce as well as

the TSBA, and ultimately to Concord’s Planning Commission, where I served 2010-’15. I was treasurer for the city 2015-’17 and appointed to the City Council in 2017. In November 2018, I ran for my council seat in Concord’s first district election, and I’m humbled to have been elected by District 5 to represent the interests of our entire city. My policy interests are vast, but I have focused on transportation and infrastructure – so much so that I have been appointed to serve on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committees for both the National League of Cities and the California League of Cities. Working on issues with local government leaders from around the state and nation

provides an excellent opportunity to advocate for Concord and all cities. As a city, Concord is constantly assessing and improving its transportation strategy to ensure we are providing multi-modal transportation that works for us now and into the future. In addition to my professional roles, my most cherished titles are husband and father. My wife Michelle (a Concord native) and I have three children: Andrew, Alyssa and Audrey. Like many families, we enjoy spending time at Concord’s beautiful parks, Music and Market at Todos Santos Plaza and many other special events throughout the year. Over the next year, I plan to host a series of casual, family-friendly meet-ups through-

New state laws benefit renters, voters

Every year, hundreds of new California laws take effect on Jan. 1. The Legislature sent more than 1,000 bills to Gov. Gavin Newsom this year, and he signed 870 into law. Many of these bills are sure to have a lasting impact on our state and communities, so I will highlight a few laws that will take effect in 2020. AB 1482, which I was proud to co-author, reflects a deal between tenants, property owners, builders and some of the largest employers in the state to provide renters with anti-rent gouging and just cause eviction protections. The law requires that a landlord have and state a just cause in order to evict tenants who have occupied their homes for more than a year. It also places an upper limit – 5 percent plus inflation – on annual rent increases. Hard-working families should not be forced to suffer while we work toward the ultimate goal of increasing our housing supply, and this bill will help protect Californians from being unfairly

KArEN MITCHOFF

COUNTY

SUPERVISOR

The holidays are a wonderful time for sharing in the spirit of the season with family, friends and community. But it is also important to remember that some of our neighbors may be experiencing this time of year quite differently. Many families in our community work hard to barely make ends meet, which means they may not have funds for gifts, holiday feasts, or even warm clothing and bedding to get through these colder winter days and nights. There are many opportunities in which to volunteer, both with time and generous donations. Here is a snapshot of some of the opportunities available in our community: Shelter, Inc. works to prevent and end homeless-

forced onto the streets. Heading into a general election year, it is especially pertinent that we do all that we can to ensure that our elections are fair and free. Two new laws will help us accomplish these goals. AB 201 is the first law in the nation to require “paid for by” disclosures on mass campaign text messages. It will apply when the sender is a candidate, political party, ballot measure committee or independent expenditure. To ensure elections are accessible to all voters, California will join 11 other states in allowing all eligible residents

to register to vote and cast a ballot at polling sites on Election Day. I supported all three measures that will help shine a light on dark money in politics, ensure voters have the best information when they are at the ballot box and increase participation in our elections. This year, I also worked to increase access to mental health services for first responders, however, we need to do more to help all of our friends and neighbors who may be struggling. For any Californians who are facing a difficult time, Newsom has funded and launched a new statewide mental health line at 1-855-845-7415. Known as the California Peer-Run Warm Line, it offers emotional support and resource referrals for people experiencing depression, anxiety and other symptoms but aren’t considering taking their own lives. This call line is a step in the right direction, and I will continue pushing next year for effective mental health services for all.

ness for the county’s lowincome residents by providing resources that lead to self-sufficiency. The agency create Adopt-A-Family to ensure that families positively experience the holiday season despite their current struggles. Families sign up with their case managers to participate in the program, then other families in the community “adopt” them for the holidays. Donors receive a family profile, gift ideas, name, age, gender, sizes and a few practical gift ideas for each family member. Donors drop off gifts at the main office, wrapped and labeled with family members’ names. Shelter, Inc. also has opportunities for families or groups to cook and serve meals at their family shelter in Martinez. For more information, call 925-335-0698. The Holiday Helpers Warehouse through VESTIA (Volunteer Emergency Services Team in Action) is a wonderful way to support families in our community. VESTIA provides gifts of warm clothing, toys, books

and food to families in need throughout the county through referrals from county social workers. Many of the families are in the process of starting their lives over from the recession, building new careers and establishing financial stability, and they do not have additional resources to provide gifts and new clothing at the holidays. You can donate new and warm clothes for children from infants to age 18, toys or gift and food certificates. For more information, call 925521-5061 or visit https://vestiainc.org/holiday-helpers-warehouse/. The Monument Crisis Center is doing a Holiday Toiletry Drive for adults, teens and children. They are accepting gift bags of new shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, body wash, disposable razors and socks through Dec. 18. They ask that you decorate the bag with stickers or festive ribbon and deliver to 1990 Market St., Concord, 9 a.m.-noon and 1:30-4:30 p.m.

TIM GrAySON

14TH ASSEMBLY DISTRICT

I have fought forcefully against PG&E bailouts and any measures that sought to undermine PG&E’s responsibility to wildfire victims or us ratepayers. This year, the Legislature passed two laws, SB 167 and SB 560, that will work to reduce wildfire risk in our communities and minimize the impact of Public Safety Power Shutoffs. I supported both measures, and I will continue to look for ways to protect Californians and to hold PG&E executives accountable for the situation that affects millions of residents. To learn more about the laws taking effect in 2020 or to share your thoughts on matters that are important to you, call my Concord office at 925-521-1511. It is an honor to serve you, and I will continue to work to help make our communities better, happier and safer places to live.

out the city so that I have a chance to talk with you and your family about the issues that matter most to you. I will announce these events on the city’s website and through social media, so stay tuned. Additionally, I will be holding office hours at City Hall

Civic involvement crucial to success

TuIJA CATALANO

CLAYTON MAYOR

By the time the December issue hits mailboxes, the City Council will have picked a new mayor and my year as mayor will have ended. Like in most cities, the council selects a mayor each December for a one-year term. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as mayor for this past year and to represent Clayton at various events in our town and Contra Costa County. I would like to thank city staff for their expertise and availability, my fellow council members for selecting me as mayor a year ago, and Clayton residents who look after each other and do things for the common good. A special shout out to my 13-yearold son who (voluntarily) accompanied me to many office hours and other events. I decided to run for City Council in 2016, in part based on the hope of giving back to the community and a desire to maintain Clayton as the great Reach Assemblyman Tim Grayson community it has been since I at (925) 521-1511. Visit or write the moved here in 2005. Serving on district office 2151 Salvio Street, Suite the council requires responsibilP, Concord, CA 94520

Pitch in to help those in need this holidayseason

Monday-Thursday and Tuesday until 6:30 p.m. It time again for the Food Bank of Contra Costa County and Solano’s annual Counties Care Holiday Food Fight. This is the 16th straight year that employees of Contra Costa and Solano counties compete to raise funds to help achieve the food bank’s goal of working to end hunger. I encourage all Contra Costa residents to support the food bank. To make a donation, visit https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/foodbankccs. With your help, I am confident that we will truly make a difference to those in need in our community. I’m wishing all of you a very happy holiday season surrounded by those you love. My best wishes for a healthy and safe 2020. Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to Mitchoff at supervisormitchoff@bos.cccounty.us

on Tuesdays and Fridays by appointment. Call 925-6713158 or email tim.mcgallian@cityofconcord.org to schedule a meeting. Here’s to a wonderful year ahead.

ity to do the right thing for all of Clayton. When I think back at Clayton during the approximately 15 years I have owned a home here, the city has changed minimally, but responsibly. Thanks to city staff and past councils, the city runs on balanced budgets with healthy reserves. Development has been limited, but in retrospect I think most would agree that having things like the bocce courts, CVS, the High Street townhomes and singlefamily homes at the old seminary site have been positive contributions to the community. Thanks to citizen vigilance and our Police Department, safety remains a top priority and achievement. I realize most residents do not attend council meetings, but hearing from all of you is important. As mayor, I held informal office hours one or two times per month. I appreciate how many of you dropped by to say hi and to talk about various matters. Please continue to let me know any feedback you have. None of us alone make Clayton a great place to live at, but all of us can do our small part to contribute to our community. I wish everyone happy holidays and look forward to continuing to serve as one of your five council members in 2020. Contact Mayor Catalano at catalano@ci.clayton.ca.us and follow at www.facebook.com/CouncilmemberTuijaCatalano for more updates.

It’s important to understand city’s land use and zoning rules From time to time, neighbors and community members ask our planning commissioners questions such as: “How can you allow such a dense development next to me?” Or, “How can you support a building that tall next to smaller homes?” When the Concord Planning Commission reviews an application for a development project, we look at the proposed application through the lens of the already established and codified development standards for that particular land. If the proposed project is designed to be compliant with the objective development standards for that land, we have very little discretion to reject it. Due to California’s Housing Accountability Act, we cannot deny a housing development application that is compliant with all zoning and development standards – unless as proposed it would have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety. That would mean a significant, quantifiable, direct and unavoidable impact,

JASON LAuB

CONCORD PLANNING

COMMISSIONER

based on public health or safety standards or policies. This is a high legal bar to surpass to deny a housing project. When I have explained this to some folks in the past, it’s apparent that not all community members are familiar with our city’s General Plan, land use and zoning regulations. Often, it’s clear that community members haven’t reviewed the zoning or development standards of land nearby that may be developed

See Laub, page 9

Prankster Clampers get serious about history December 13, 2019

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Whitsell, they proposed reviving the organization at a Cliff House luncheon the next year. The reaction was favorable, and old-time ECV members provided the words and rites they remembered to begin the revival. New members needed to possess an interest in preserving the history of California and the American West. DEBBIE EISTETTEr Wheat became known as THE WAY the “revivifier” and eventually became the noble grand humWE WERE bug of San Francisco Chapter 1 and Los Angeles Chapter 2. After providing support Playing pranks on fellow and fellowship during Califormembers has always been a nia’s Gold Rush, E Clampus treasured tradition in ClamVitus had no active chapters perdom, but one prank in the by the 1920s. 1930s went haywire. Dane and The fraternal organization’s others instigated the prank on demise was primarily due to Herbert E. Bolton, the direcmining operations shutting tor of the Bancroft Library down or moving to other and a professor of American states and the U.S. entry into history at UC Berkeley. Bolton WWI. had a special interest in findCarl Wheat and George Dane were attorneys who had ing a brass plate mentioned in been friends since their under- the writings of Francis Pretty, graduate days at Pomona Col- who was a member of Sir lege and who shared a love of Francis Drake’s voyage to Alta California in 1579. California history. In 1930. The old journal described they were exploring small the details of the plate that towns in the Sierra foothills was left behind as evidence of and became curious about the Drake’s claiming the land for group as they conversed with the British Crown. Bolton Clampers of the old order. always made mention to his With their friend Leon students to look for it if they

Laub, from page 8

or redeveloped at some point, until they receive a notice in the mail about a newly proposed development. To avoid being surprised, I’d urge you to review the local zoning where you live. You can view zoning for any parcel/address in the city at the interactive GIS map available at http://maps.cityofconcord.org/publicgis. Once you locate a zoning designation, you can review the develop-

for one, the letters ECV could Clamper Creed reads, “… may be seen written on the back I never forget the stout-heartunder a black light. But the ed men who settled a great plate’s discovery was quickly western wilderness and the heralded in newspapers and heritage we have today. May I journals throughout the never fail to appreciate a bit of world, and its true origin was western lore.” kept a secret to preserve “Plaquing” is their way of Bolton’s reputation and to acknowledging people and hide the perpetrators’ extreme places significant to our area. embarrassment. ECV Joaquin Murrieta ChapThere had always been a ter 13, serving Alameda and healthy number of historians Contra Costa counties, has who doubted the plate’s erected eight stone monuauthenticity. They were vindi- ments and installed nine cated 40 years later, when fur- plaques in Clayton alone. ther testing showed its edges Many thanks to the gentlemen to have been cut with modern in the red shirts. E Clampus Vitus members are in solidarity about preserving machinery and that it conWestern history. tained trace metals consistent Debbie Eistetter is membership with modern American brass. chair of the Clayton Historical Sociwere ever at Drake’s Bay. ward to tell his tale, metallur- A UC Berkeley press release ety. Visit claytonhistory.org or come In 1933, a chauffeur was gic experts at Columbia Union Feb. 18, 2003, revealed to the museum on Main Street, open waiting while his employer versity tested the plate and by who did it. 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays. was hunting at Drake’s Bay. all indications it seemed to be However, it is no joke that Admission is free. Call 925-672He found a brass plate and the real thing. Dane had made E Clampus Vitus is serious 0240. tossed it into the car for later several hints to it being fake; about history. Part of the inspection but threw it out the window near San Quentin several days later – deeming it rubbish. It was found again in 1936 on the side of the road and eventually made its way to an excited Professor Bolton. He believed the plate could be authentic, except for the fact New, locally owned Indian restaurant is creating a buzz. that it was not found near Here’s what the Yelpers are saying… Drake’s Bay. The chauffeur came for-

Curry Bowl

you’re interested in learning about the zoning and development standards in your area, city staff is also well-versed ment standards in Title 18 of the Concord Municipal Code and happy to assist you. Stop by the Permit Center at Conavailable at https://www.codepublishing.c cord City Hall, Building D, 1950 Parkside Dr. or call 925om/CA/Concord/. The development standards specify 671-3107 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monbuilding heights, lot coverage, day-Friday. setbacks, etc. Jason Laub is Chief Operating If you’ve never looked into Officer at RAD Urban and is a zoning or development stanCity of Concord Planning Comdards before, it can be a bit tricky to navigate. There’s a lot missioner. Email questions or comof information and it may not ments to be obvious how to proceed. If jlaub.concordplanning@gmail.com

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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

December 13, 2019

Detention Center inmates double as elves in Santa’s workshop JONATHAN LANCE Special to the Pioneer

For the 27th straight year, representatives from Contra Costa County non-profit agencies helped fulfill Christmas wish lists at the Marsh Creek Detention Facility’s Holiday Toy Show. The guests could choose from 544 handcrafted toys and 90 bicycles refurbished by the Clayton facility’s inmates. All of the attendees were awestruck when walking into the woodshop, which had been turned into an elaborate Santa’s workshop. Contra Costa County Office of Education (CCCOE) instructor John Putt and some of his adult students displayed the toys among holiday decorations. County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey and Sheriff David Livingston both spoke to the large gathering about the successful CCCOE accredited shop classes taught onsite. “This outstanding event always officially kicks off the holidays for me,” Livingston said. Addressing the inmates, he

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added: “I want to thank you gentlemen and those before you that have been working diligently on this year-long program.” All of the toy makers and bike mechanics are students in the Contra Costa Adult School, an accredited school directed by CCCOE, located within the jail facility. “I too would like to thank our adult students here today,” Mackey said. “Your toy-making and bike-refurbishing skills will certainly make a brighter holiday season for many chil-

dren throughout our community.” Non-profit organizations participating in the event included Bay Area Housing District, Bay Area Rescue Mission, Brighter Beginnings, Contra Costa County Independent Living Skills Program, El Cerrito Rotary, Friends of Oakley, Pittsburg Police Department, Shelter Inc., the Salvation Army-Antioch Corps, Shepherd’s Gate, La Casa and VESTIA.

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Pictured are two of the inmates who worked all year making toys from Santa’s Workshop. The County’s collaborative program celebrates its 27th year of bringing joy to local atrisk children.

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FARMERS MARKET

From baking ingredients to delicious gifts to meal planning, the farmers market is the place to come for your holiday shopping. Holiday baking will be a snap with crunchy almonds and walnuts from Winters Fruit Tree, farm-fresh eggs from Great Valley Poultry out of Monterey and sweet-tart citrus from Diaz Farms of Fowler in the mix. Lemon cookies, almond crescents, nut bars and honey nut chews will disappear as fast as you can bake them. You can fill holiday gift baskets with fresh citrus, nuts, bakery items, flowers and so much more. Don’t forget to pick up some of Napa’s Bistro Blends olive oil and vinegar gift sets. The possibilities are endless – and delicious. The market even has handmade soaps, lotions, candles and lip balms from Delta Moon Soapworks of Rodeo. They’re made from the best olive oils, honey and goats milk ingredients in the cold process method. Check out her gift sets with special holiday scents, including cranberry marmalade, honey gingerbread and pumpkin spice. Her can-

Bistro Blends has a variety of flavored olive oils and vinegars that make great holiday gifts.

dles have aromas like pine mint, spiked eggnog and pumpkin vanilla. These wellmade, gentle products are hard to resist. Your appetizers and holiday meals will be the talk of the party when you select fresh and local products. Dinner rolls, pies, fresh breads, pastries and other delectable sweets will add to your meal presentation. Special lamb cuts from Hanson Family Farm in Clayton will leave guests satisfied, and fresh holiday flowers from Sunrise Nursery in Watsonville will add to your holiday decor. Visit the Concord farmers market throughout the season and enjoy the ease of shopping without the holiday crowds while you select the freshest, locally grown products. Pick up a bag of lemons and enjoy a holiday cocktail or two with this lemon drop recipe. Have a great holiday season from all of us at Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association.

MEYER LEMON DROP This delightful cocktail will ward off your cold weather blues and bring some postholiday cheer. It relies on a simple ratio of 3-2-1: three parts vodka, two parts Meyer lemon juice, one part superfine sugar. So however you measure your ingredients, be it cups or tablespoons, this ratio is a constant. If you don’t have superfine sugar, put a cup of sugar in the food processor and process for 1-2 minutes. Measure after processing. To make four cocktails: 1 cup vodka 2/3 c. Meyer lemon juice (2-3 lemons) 1/3 c. superfine sugar Put ingredients in a sealed container (like a mason jar) and shake until the sugar dissolves. Add ice and shake again until chilled. Serve immediately with a lemon wedge and if you like, a lemon-sugared rim.

December 13, 2019

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Holiday plants to brighten the season NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

Topiaries, cyclamen, poinsettias, amaryllis and Christmas cactus are some of December’s most gifted plants. They may come wrapped in colorful foil or planted in color bowls or terracotta containers. You can give them to a host, teacher or someone who provides a service for you. They are mementos of the season. If you’re received living gifts this holiday season, here are some tips for successful growing. Topiaries are evergreen plants grown into decorative shapes. Sometimes they are made of small ivy and grown on wire frames; other times they’re cypress plantings trained and shaped into single or double tier trees. Herbs, fruitless olives and boxwood type plants are also grown as cones. Topiaries make lovely additions to homes, entryways and patios. Many contain water-wise plant material, so be careful not to overwater – especially when kept in the home. Cyclamen are bulb-grown plants with fancy leaves and flowers that resemble shooting stars. They can be a welcoming touch on a porch or incorporated in combination planters. This plant is often misunderstood. They are beautiful throughout winter but start to cycle to sleep as spring begins to warm. This is the time to install cyclamen into the ground in a shady spot. Once fall is back upon us, your cyclamen will return for another season

Page 11

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of enjoyment. Poinsettia plants are the most popular holiday gift. Bracts of red, wine, white, speckled and now dyed shades of purple and blue stand atop leafy bushes. The trick with poinsettias is not to let them dry out too much – or allow them to be too wet. They are indoor plants that do not appreciate cold nights or drafty locations. Many folks keep their poinsettia plants alive well past the new year, and we have heard stories of plants lasting upward of five years. Unless you force a bloom using darkness, the color that you enjoy the year you receive it may be the only time you get this plant to bloom. Amaryllis is another bulb plant that is forced into bloom for our December enjoyment. Large, lily-shaped flowers of red, white, pink and sometime bi-color stand tall above strappy foliage. This dramatic bulb is a lovely addition to any kitchen counter or dining table. After bloom, plant your amaryllis in

the garden. It will bloom again around June each year. They are easy to grow and are deer- and gopher-resistant. The flowers are showy, with a bulb usually giving only three to four blooms. They are so impressive that you’ll add to your collection every year. Many folks have memories of a Christmas cactus. This succulent can grow with little to no care for decades. In the nursery industry, we call them Zygocactus. There are three selections that bloom at different seasons, depending on the shape of the leaf. Your Zygocactus can bloom in November, December or April. They are easy to propagate and share. As with all succulents, protect them from frost and overwatering. Feed them a couple times a year, and you may need to change the soil every year or two. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. You can contact her with questions or comments by email at gardengirl94517@yahoo.com

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December 13, 2019

Year in Review

MDUSD, CVCHS dominated school news in 2020 JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

While looking back over 2020 to develop our school news year in review, two of the biggest stories have yet to be played out when we prepared to publish this December issue of The Pioneer. So we’ll just have to grade our list as “incomplete.” Stalled salary negotiations between the teachers union and Mt. Diablo Unified School District and the decision of the Contra Costa County Office of Education board for the renewal of the charter for Clayton Valley Charter High School have been right at or near the top of a another busy year in the area’s classrooms and administrative offices. Clayton Valley Charter is seeking another five-year renewal of its Charter and the Concord school will learn its fate from the Contra Costa County Office of Education board this Wednesday evening. Just as they did at an Oct. 16 CCCOE meeting at Pleasant Hill Middle School to question CVCHS executive Director Jim Scheible, supporters of CVCHS and its charter renewal petition are

expected to fill to overflow the middle school multi-use room this week. The school has been proactively promoting its charter renewal effort in traditional and social media. Officials can hope they are as successful as their football team that pulled off a Northern California championship victory last Friday on the Concord campus. The charter school made a point at that meeting saying their teachers are the highest paid in the county. In the audience were new MDUSD superintendent Robert Martinez and most of his board of trustees. The administration of the large local district of nearly 30,000 students has been at an impasse over a new contract with its teachers union. The last agreement expired over 500 days ago. Mt. Diablo Education Association and the district have been in mediation with the most recent meeting last week. The teachers and supporters filled Monte Gardens Elementary School’s multi-use room at the end of October to make their frustrations known to the MDUSD Board. There have been some veiled and not-so-

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veiled discussions of a strike should this mediation effort fail to result in a new contract. Martinez was unanimously selected by the board as their choice to replace popular superintendent Nellie Meyer, who surprisingly took a new position across the bay late last school year. The new superintendent took over in August as the new the school year began. He had been with the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District in a variety of positions for 32 years. The busy year for MDUSD also saw planning for the use of the $150 million Measure J bond funds. The measure passed last November. Also, the board finalized the maps for five trustee areas with-

NATALIE PurSCHE

NORTHGATE

CORRESPONDENT

As a junior in high school, I can confidently say that the high school environment imposes too much stress on students. With the constant competition of college acceptance lingering in the air, the hallways are filled with anxiety about the future. Like many students, I am always stressed out – constantly struggling to balance

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NEW FACILITIES OPEN Carondelet gave its excited student body a sneak preview of the $16 million Jean Hofmann Center for Innovation on the Concord campus last month. Following 270 construction days, outgoing school president Bonnie Cutter and student body president Natalie Ionescu welcomed the students to look through the two-story I-Center building that will serve as the hub of the school’s STEM program for generations. Cotter is serving out her con-

tract through the end of the school year before relocating full time to her family home on the East Coast. She is telecommuting this year while CHS conducts a nationwide search for her successor. Mt. Diablo High School started its culinary program over 30 years ago and students and faculty operated the Serendipity Restaurant in the former metal shop building on campus. Over a year and a half ago it was apparent the facilities and equipment needed upgrading. This month Serendipity is ready to re-open with construction complete and all the applicable approvals and permits secured. The proud staff is hosting a preview this week and will have its traditional holiday lunch

menu open to the public Dec. 17 and 18. After the winter recess Serendipity will be open starting Jan. 8 for lunch and its new morning café service. Ygnacio Valley High also has made excellent use of a school building that formally held shop classes. The Concord campus unveiled its Innovation Lab in September that houses the third year of Ygnacio’s Project 212 Robotics program and is now the hub of the school’s STEM programs. The school hosted an opening potluck where leadership lauded the major buy-in from local businesses and service organizations to bring about first the robotics program and now the lab.

my endless list of responsibilities while maintaining a healthy mindset. Over the course of my high school career, it has become increasingly harder to stay happy. Many people are quick to blame students for taking on too many responsibilities, juggling school work, part-time jobs and extracurricular activities. But in my high school, I have always felt pressure from school administrators to overwork in hopes of attending a four-year college. Even when I have time to take a break from school, I can’t stop thinking that somehow I should be using this time to be more productive – studying for the SATs or fin-

ishing that math homework due in a week. Workaholic mindsets like mine are a result of the competitive environment high school administrators inflict on students to achieve higher college acceptance rates. This pushes students to bite off more than they can chew in order to obtain that perfect application profile. Every class and extracurricular activity we sign up for seems to be a strategic move that will make our college applications more desirable. Because of this, we feel like we have to be on the verge of a mental breakdown all of the time to be on the right track for college. This competition between

peers is unhealthy and is directly linked to mental illness. Since when have college acceptance rates and SAT scores become more important to high school administrators than the mental health of students? Administrators need to focus less on their overall image and more on student mental health. If they put less stress on students, maybe we would perform even better. Calmer environments create happier students, and happier students create higher-achieving schools.

in the District for State-mandated district elections for trustees beginning in 2020. The first two seats to be filled under this new system will be contested without an incumbent seeking reelection.

Let’s put an end to the mess of high school stress

Natalie Pursche is a sophomore at Northgate and a regular contributor to the Pioneer. Send comments to editor@pioneerpublishers.com.

SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

The Pioneer

December 13, 2019

Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B7 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . .B5 The Arts . . . . . . . . . . .B6

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Spartans, Ugly Eagle both in State Bowl games JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

successive State Bowl championship game a week earlier with a 49-7 win over long-time rivals Pittsburg when De La Salle racked up its 28th straight North Coast Section title. Since DLS has gone 310 games without a loss to a team north of Fresno dating back to 1992 they were again seeded directly into the State Open Division championship. There the Concord team meets America’s No. 1 ranked St. John Bosco (12-1) of Bellflower. The game is the grand finale of the CIF Bowl Series at Cerritos College Saturday night at 8 p.m. Bosco fell behind then No. 1 Mater Dei 28-5 late in the first half of their Southern Section championship game before scoring 34 straight points and pulling off a stunning comeback 39-34. Like DLS in the North, the Southern Section champ was automatically placed in the State Open finals. Coach Justin Alumbaugh’s De La Salle team began the season back on Aug. 23 facing thenNo. 1 ranked St. Thomas Aquinas of Ft. Lauderdale, FL and lost a mistake-prone game they could have won. They are undefeated since and finish up against the new No. 1 team Bosco, which beat the Spartans in the 2013 and 2017 State finals. Both State games involving the local teams will be telecast.

There are 1,367 cities in California but only Concord has two high school football teams playing in CIF State championship bowl games this weekend after Clayton Valley Charter’s incredible comeback win last Friday evening at rainy Gonsalves Stadium put the Ugly Eagles in the title game, joining perennial state finalists De La Salle among the 28 schools from throughout the State taking part in Friday and Saturday’s finals. Clayton Valley Charter was facing near certain defeat in the Northern California Regional Division 2-AA finals when they fell behind 26-14 to Elk Grove with less than five minutes remaining on a touchdown that may have been a lost fumble. The Ugly Eagles rallied for two TDs in the final 2:22 to pull out a 28-26 victory. That gives CVCHS (9-5) its third State Bowl berth under head coach Tim Murphy since 2014. They meet Aquinas of San Bernardino at 4 p.m. Friday in the 2-AA finale at Cerritos College in Norwalk. Aquinas (13-2) is riding a 13game winning streak into the championship game following their 24-10 Southern California Regional championship win over San Juan Hills at the same time Clayton Valley was pulling off its miracle win. UGLY EAGLES ROAR BACK De La Salle (12-1) sat out the Junior quarterback Jake Regional Bowl games as the Kerns, seldom relied on for his Spartans qualified for their 14th

Photo courtesy CVCHS Football

Clayton Valley Charter won its third Northern California regional Bowl game since 2014 and this one came in astounding fashion. Playing a strong Elk Grove team, the ugly Eagles found themselves 12 points behind with the clock winding down in the fourth quarter. Two long touchdown passes from Jake Kern and an end zone interception put CVCHS into the State Bowl Game this Friday afternoon against Aquinas of San Bernardino. The ugly Eagles celebrated their 28-26 victory in the Gonsalves Stadium end zone.

passing, completed touchdown throws of 40 and 42 yards in those closing minutes last Friday when CVCHS battled a stout Elk Grove team and a steady rain for the unlikely come-frombehind win. MaxPreps senior writer Mitch Stephens summed up the

unlikely scenario in a tweet: “Clayton —- no pass – Eagles. Crazy finish.” Following the Elk Grove touchdown with 4:54 remaining in the fourth quarter, Kern and his offense went on an 11-play, 76-yard drive to pull close. However, it wasn’t a typical Ugly

Eagles run-run-run series. They had a 71-yard touchdown run called back on a penalty. With fourth down and 10 at the Elk Grove 40-yard line Kern hit Rayshawn Jackson for a scoring strike to pull his team within 2621. Clayton Valley Charter failed

on the ensuing onside kick and Elk Grove needed a single first down to ice their first-ever State Bowl game berth. Kavika Baumgartner and the defense stopped a quarterback sneak a yard short on fourth down and

See State, page B4

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December 13, 2019

21 senior athletes ink college commitments for next fall JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Nov. 13 was a special day for 21 local high school athletes who signed their National Letters of Intent, committing to play their sport starting next fall in colleges large and small from coast to coast. Carondelet, Clayton Valley Charter and Concord had student athletes formalize their college choices that day. De La Salle had a number of baseball players opt to formally commit later this school year. There were five signees for baseball, four each for soccer and softball, two for water polo and once each for track and field, lacrosse, swimming, volleyball, golf and equestrian. The student athletes are headed to 19 different colleges. Concord High won the 2017 North Coast Section softball championship with a

number of freshmen playing key roles. Those girls are now seniors and three of them made a their NLI a joint effort at the school. Madelyn Mays is going to Harvard and will be playing for the Crimson next year. Amber Desena is becoming a University of Iowa Hawkeye and Marina Delaluna will be studying and playing in Texas at Trinity University. They’ll be playing in their fourth varsity season next spring. Five Clayton Valley Charter baseball players signed their NLI. Telly Hill and Chase Graves will be remaining teammates when they matriculate to Stockton and the University of the Pacific in the fall. Diablo Athletic League MVP pitcher Joey Soberon is going to UC San Diego. Lefthanded pitcher Eddie Curley is staying close to home at St. Mary’s College. Corner infielder Ryan Pierce

Ten Carondelet seniors signed their National Letters of Intent last month in front of the student body at a noontime ceremony at their school. The signees are, from left, Giovanna “Gigi” Baldacci (Boston College), Carissa Capinpin (San Francisco State), Kelly Kern (Stanford), Samantha “Kiki” Mein (Indiana), Elizabeth “Ellie” Ospeck (Notre Dame), Helena Perez (Colorado State), Isabella rosa (Baylor), Gabriella “Gabby” Williams (uC San Diego), Carissa Wu (Cal Poly SLO) and Alexus “Lexi” Zandonella (Sonoma State).

is going to Fresno State. Casey Barnes became the second CVCHS lacrosse player in the last two years to

Clayton Valley Charter’s eight NLI signees are, front row from left, Jordan Frost (uC Irvine), Darby Dresdow (Biola university); back row, Telly Hill (university of the Pacific), Eddie Curley (St. Mary’s College), Joey Soberon (uC San Diego), ryan Pierce (Fresno State), Casey Barnes (Merrimack College) and Chase Graves (university of the Pacific).

commit to a Division 1 program. He’s headed to Merrimack College in Massachusetts. Goalie Jordan Frost will take her water polo talents to UC Irvine while her classmate Darby Dresdow will play soccer at Biola University. Carondelet had girls commit for eight different sports with three players coming from the perennial NCS championship contending Cougar soccer teams: Ellie Ospeck (Notre Dame), Carissa Capinpin (San Francisco State) and Lexi Zandonella (Sonoma State). Record-setting pole vaulter Kelly Kern is going to Stanford. Other Carondelet signees are Carissa Wu (golf, Cal Poly SLO), Gabby Williams (softball, UCSD), Kiki Mein (water polo, Indiana), Isabella Rosa (equestrian, Baylor), Helena Perez (volleyball, Colorado State) and Gigi Baldacci (swimming, Boston College).

MDSA Team Chile girls 10u team won the MDSA World Cup and followed that up at the AySO Area Cup to earn a spot in this weekend’s Section 2 Tournament in Foster City. Coaches Section 2 Tournament in Foster City. The team of coaches Jeb Carter and Lindsey Bradburn includes, bottom row from left, Gea Flores, Kaylee Carter, ruby Hackett, Natalie Stojanovich, Caraline Smith; back row, Ella Galang, Elyse Scott, Lily Bradburn, rylie Beaubien and Lily Worth.

MDSA Team Senegal boys 10u took the Area Cup crown and are headed to the Section finals this weekend. The team includes, from row from left, Nicklas Longhi, Liam Zepeda, raymond Lucia, Anthony Mazza, Donovan Briosos, Devin Villamor, Emerson Vu, Brayden Shen, Vincent Carone; back row, coaches ryan Carone and Joseph Lucia. Not pictured, Nathan Collier.

MDSA Team Poland boys 12u were victorious at the Area Cup with a team that includes, front row from left, Tyler Feustel, Gabriel Chelstowski, Carter Shinn, Michael Chelstowski; middle row, Maddox Platt, Jack Hoversen, Liam Shields, Jesus Gutierrez-Hernandez, Jerame Tito rodriguez Jr., Ian Martinez, Nickolas Moises Lemus; back row, coaches Josh Platt and Paul Chelstowski.

MDSA Team Mexico girls 14u took first place at the MDSA World Cup and Area Cup. Team Mexico includes, sat from left, Vanessa Osario, Lyanna Gatrell-Ferreira, Jodie Wong, Sara LaVay, Grace DeSeelhorst; second row, robin Harts, Alicia Gonzales, Angela Gervas Gonzalez, Jade Gomez, Madisyn Zentarski-Grassi, Jasmine Villatoro, Lexi Teitsma; back, coaches Neila Gatrell, Dave Adams and robert Hartz. Not pictured, rachel Johnson.

Three four-year members of the Concord High softball team recently made their college commitments together as well. Madelyn Mays (left) is headed for the East Coast to Harvard, Amber Desena (middle) is off to the university of Iowa and Marina Delaluna is headed to Texas at Trinity university.

4 Area Cup champion MDSA teams in AYSO Section

Photos courtesy MDSA

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

have his three-year varsity player back for this winter season. Although he is expected to lead his team this year as a starting center midfielder, Adams’ accomplishments off the field are just as notable as those he achieves while in uniform. Lincoln has been in the Clayton Valley Engineering Academy for four years and maintained a 4.33 weighted GPA. He is also co-president of Senior Men, a service club at CVCHS. After high school, Adams hopes to attend Cal Poly or University of Washington and major in biomedical engineering.

Athlete Spotlight

Lincoln Adams Grade: Senior School: CVCHS Sport: Soccer

Winter sports have started up and this is Adams’ favorite time of yearnot because of Christmas and cold weather, but the first week in December marks the beginning of high school soccer season. Last year, eight games into his junior season on varsity soccer, he suffered a season-ending injury with a broken ankle and foot. Although he was crushed to have missed the majority of the season,

Page B3

CVCHS student journalist Alexa Oldham wrote this Spotlight.

Adams slowly but steadily rehabilitated and was able to restore his game for club season at Diablo FC. Now, going into his final year playing for Clayton Valley Charter, Lincoln couldn’t be more excited to “get back on the horse.” He describes the relationship between his teammates as extremely tight-knit, resembling a family more than a team. CVCHS coach Guillermo Jara is delighted to

The Pioneer congratulates Lincoln and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com

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Spartan standout Garrett is league MVP JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

De La Salle football’s allaround senior star Shamar Garrett and Berean Christian’s four-time winner Ava Miller earned league most valuable player awards as the fall sports season concluded. Ryan Parker of Northgate was named Diablo Athletic League Valley Division outstanding goalie and then helped his Bronco team to the championship in the North Coast Section Division II playoffs. Northgate also reached the finals of the Northern California Regionals. Madelyn Gamble was East Bay Athletic League golf MVP and she paced her Cougar team to the Northern California tournament. She earned an individual place in the State tournament by taking third at NorCal and then followed up with a fourthplace showing at State. Garrett was the versatile star for the Spartans, who are in their 14th straight State Bowl Game this Saturday night. Garrett split his time between runningback on offense, defensive back and the No. 1 kick returner as needed. Miller finished her fouryear league Valley Division record with a 58-0 singles record, taking the singles league tournament title every year.

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League), Carondelet and De La ing (CV); 2nd team- Nelly Moss (CV), Dylan Mclacken Salle (East Bay Athletic League) Elahmadie, Iris Rose/Ets Hokin (Con). (CV), Jessica Garces, Fatima VALLEY Girls: 1st teamall-league honorees:

Venegas (Con), Jinky ManguDIABLO ATHLETIC LEAGUE bat (Mt. Diablo); HM- Thalia Munoz (Con), Sophia Woolard Cross County (CV), Chloe Larner (BC), AshBoys: 1st team - Logan ley Castro (MD), Jennifer SanHarlow (Northgate); 2nd team doval-Navarro (YV). - Diego Huerta (Concord), Girls Volleyball Nathan Butterfield (Clayton FOOTHILL 2nd team – Valley Charter). Paris Haraguchi, Tui Saluni Girls Golf (NG), Zippy Dudziak (BC); HM FOOTHILL 1st team - Gia – Kaitlyn Farrell (NG). Feliciano, Ellexis Mingming, VALLEY 1st team- Brenna Sam Ricafrente (NG); 2nd Duggan, Iliana Mano (CV); team- Mandy Starke (NG). 2nd team - Madelyn Mays VALLEY 1st team- Kiana (Con), Olivia Corns (BC); HMFong (CV); 2nd team – Sydnie Noelle Mixon (CV), Alexjah King, Jenna Fassio (CV); HM- Humphrey (BC), Maci Erasmia Reynolds (CV), Indigo Otaguro (Con), Anne RebutaWhiteley (Ygnacio Valley). zo (YV).

Girls Tennis FOOTHILL 2nd team – Kylie Choi (NG); HM – Melania Tsi (NG). VALLEY MVP – Ava Miller (Berean Christian); 1st teamSarisha Bhalla (CV), Sophia Clayton Valley Charter and Larner (BC), Rachel Yengele, Kristian Ly/Brenda Rivas (YV), Northgate (Diablo Athletic Steffi Ryzicka/Giovanna Field-

Water Polo VALLEY Boys: Outstanding Goalie – Ryan Parker (NG); 1st team- John Parker (CV), Mark Hirsch, Oliver Shalabi (NG); 2nd team- Toshio Longley (CV), Reid Stein, John Fink (NG), Mark Moroz (Con); HMCole Sanchez (NG), Aidan

Jordan Frost, Camylle Callahan, Grace Pugh (CV), Amelia Bascom, Marina Delaluna (Con), Evaline Vecchio (NG); 2nd Team- Madelyn Vines, Emma Wilcox (CV), Katherine Stahl, Ainsley McNulty, Autumn Geckler (NG), Lily Weires, Bela Hernandez, Gracie Weisre (Con); HM- Mikayla Brown (CV), Sophia Lito (NG), Cireini Prittis (Con).

Football FOOTHILL Offense 1st team- Eric Prough, Cooper Champion (NG), Arionte Mouton (YV); 2nd team- Jackson Malakoff, Max Berrien, (NG), Angelo Castellano-Martinez (YV), D’Antonio Jerome (MD), Carlos Gonzalez, Sam Daynes (Con), Tesini Ma’ake (NG); HM – Julian lara (BC), Jesus Orozco Buelna (YV), Hunter Baker, Jonathan Bishop, Juan Gonzalez (Con), Julian Buelna (YV).

See MVP, page B4

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Todd Lichti returns for hometown reception before Hall of Fame induction in Kansas City

Jay Bedecarré

Mt. Diablo High basketball legend Todd Lichti came home to visit with family, Little League and high school friends and fans before his induction to the College Basketball Hall of Fame Nov. 24. The red Devil star, who lives in Australia, returned to Legends at Diablo Creek where he had held his NBA Draft Party 30 years ago. Among those visiting with Lichti (back) were, from left, Herc Pardi, John Carl, Casey Coakley, Mike rittenhouse and Steve Mazza. Coakley’s dad Jerry Coakley was Lichti’s coach for MDHS basketball. Among other guests were coach Frank Allocco, who had Lichti on his summer basketball camp staff, MDHS grad and Warriors Hardwood Classics dancer Liz Wood with two of her senior dance teammates, long-time NBA agent Bill Duffy and DVC basketball coach Steve Coccimiglio. The evening raised $2500 for the school’s basketball program.

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Serving all of Contra Costa County for over 15 years Including Marsh Creek, Morgan Territory

Page B4

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com more and was twice an NCS Scholar Athlete. Miller has played in USTA tournaments as well, including taking second in a junior tournament in Lafayette. She’s been on the Berean Christian school choirs all four years and has also been on the high school’s worship team as a singer in both her junior and senior year. She participates in a number of community service projects including as a camp counselor at North Creek Church, various Oakhurst charity events and at her alma mater’s Mt. Diablo Elementary Kinder Olympics throughout high school.

Athlete Spotlight

Ava Miller

Grade: Senior School: Berean Christian Sport: Tennis

Miller went to her neighborhood tennis courts over 10 years ago to get coaching from Rick Ortega at Oakhurst Country Club. Their collaboration seems to have paid off as she recently won her fourth successive league MVP award as the singles champion of the Diablo Athletic League Valley Division to complete her senior season at Berean Christian High. Miller never lost a league match

in four years; in fact, she didn’t lose a set until this year’s league tournament quarterfinals when she won an 11-9 tiebreaker over Sophia Woolard of Clayton Valley Charter after dropping the first set. She finished with a 58-0 league record since 2016, winning 88% of her games in those matches. Those results put her in the North Coast Section tournament every year. She took third at Section as a sopho-

Northgate High boys water polo and De La Salle cross country came away with the most recent North Coast Section championships for local schools as the fall sports calendar wrapped up. Girls Golf – Madelyn Gamble followed her second place at NCS and third at NorCal with a fourth-place finish of two over par 73 at the State Golf Championships last month at Poppy Hills Golf Course in Peach Beach. Her Cougar teammate Madison Wu was 21st with her score of 76. Gamble and Wu qualified as individuals after the Cougars were one spot away from qualifying for another state tournament as a team. Water Polo – Northgate boys enjoyed a magical run to the NCS Division 2 championship and all the way to the Northern California D-3 championship match against St. Ignatius of San Francisco. SI defeated the Broncos 9-7. Northgate was seeded third in NCS and took out No. 2 Terra Linda in the semi-finals 10-8 before besting top seed Cardinal Newman to win the title 11-10.

MADELYN GAMBLE CARONDELET GOLF

That championship earned them a three seed at NorCals. They beat Buhach Colony of Atwater 13-5 and took out second seeded Oakdale 10-8 in the semis. Carondelet was the No. 1 seed in Division 2 at NCS. The Cougars outlasted Northgate 12-11 in the semi-finals but had a similar scoreline reversed in the finals with No. 2 seed Tamalpais beating Carondelet 17-16 in overtime. Clayton Valley Charter girls defeated Berkeley 7-6 and Redwood 5-1 in D-1 as the fifth

seed. The Eagles lost in the semis to eventual champions and No. 1 ranked Sir Francis Drake. De La Salle lost to top seed Miramonte in the opening round of Division 1 boys. Girls Volleyball – NCS finalists Carondelet lost in five sets to Clovis West in the first round of the NorCal D-1 tournament. Cross Country – De La Salle junior Patrick Curulla highlighted the local contingent by winning NCS Division 2 and taking eighth at the CIF State cross country championships. He was the top local finisher in any division while leading the NCS champion Spartans to a ninth-place team place. Kieran Brown was 29th and Derek O’Connor 61st for the next two DLS placers. At NCS, the Spartans ran away from the D-2 field with strong runs from Curula (1st), Brown (3rd), O’Connor (5th), Nathan Babby (16th) and Oscar Gomez (21st) Northgate was sixth and a young Carondelet team seventh with a freshman and two sophomores their top finishers at NCS in D-3. The Broncos were paced by Lark Chang-Yeh in 22nd and then three others bunched with-

The Pioneer wants to publish your sports news

Please let us know about your sports news, special events, fund raisers, tryouts, signups and accomplishments. It’s simple. Send an email to sports@pioneerpublishers.com.

S p o r t s Shorts

YGNACIO VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL ANNOUNCES ITS 2020 ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME CLASS

Five athletes, two coaches and a special award recipient have been elected to the Ygnacio Valley High Athletic Hall of Fame and will be inducted as the Class of 2020 on May 16 at Contra Costa Country Club. Long-time principal Dr. Ernest Wutzke is receiving a special award. The inductees are coaches Jack Biglen (football and golf) and Triss Carter (boys and girls cross country and track) and athletes Oliver Hanf (Class of 1987, wrestling, football, track), Jim Mayo (1975, wrestling), Julie Pitois (1989, basketball, softball, volleyball), Eric Lakin (1982, baseball, football) and Chris Iglesias (1980, baseball, football). Visit yvathletichof.com for more details and to reserve tickets.

CONCORD AMERICAN LITTLE LEAGUE

REGISTRATION FOR SPRING BALL OPEN ONLINE

Concord American Little League is still accepting registration for its 2020 spring baseball and softball seasons. The league’s website has complete information for t-ball through senior baseball and softball (4-14 years old) and Challenger (4-18 years) programs. Call 472-8940 for more information or register online at callbaseball.org.

TERRAPINS SWIM TEAM OFFERING PRE-SEASON HIGH SCHOOL SWIM CLINIC THROUGH JANUARY

Terrapins coaches will be teaching a pre-season high school training program in the afternoon at Concord Community Pool

State, from page B1

The Pioneer congratulates Ava and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com

State, NCS competitions conclude fall sports with top local performances JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

December 13, 2019

in the top 39 spots. Chloe Chapman, Kara Chung and Megan Malloy were scorers for Northgate. Clayton Valley Charter girls were 10th in NCS Division 1 with Angely Alas and Alex Martinez their top finishers. Northgate was fifth and the Concord Minutemen boys were 12th in D-3 at the Section meet. Logan Harlow led the way for Northgate in eighth place with Kyle Walsh and Evan Leach next across the finish line. Logan Jacobs and Diego Huerta ran 12-13 for Concord. Huerta took 44th and Logan 52 at State as they qualified as individuals from their NCS performances. Harlow was 81st at State.

Photo courtesy De La Salle football

Nick Moseley (left) and Lance Hackett grew up on the football field playing for the Clayton Valley Falcons. They had started hanging around the local youth football program watching older brothers play. Hackett’s dad Jonathon always made sure the boys had snacks, especially Moseley’s favorite, ritz Crackers. After playing youth football together for seven years Moseley went to Pittsburg High and Hackett to De La Salle. They met for the final time on the high school gridiron last month in the North Coast Section championship game where DLS prevailed. But as was their custom for all those years, coach Hackett made sure that Moseley got his ritz.

CVCHS took over with 1:22 left on the game clock. On the third play of that series Kern, who transferred from De La Salle to CVCHS, hit Seth Gwynn down the right sideline and Gwynn carried it in for a 42-yard catch and run. The Eagles were up by two, but Elk Grove wasn’t finished as it had taken only 20 seconds for Clayton Valley to score the go-ahead TD. The Thundering Herd drove deep into scoring territory before Charlie Saylor intercepted in the end zone to secure the host team a memorable victory. Elk Grove had one point-after miss, one blocked and had a two-point conversion stopped.

MVP, from page B3

Defense 1st team- Fernando Verduzco, Alan Lloyd Jr. (YV), Dominic Balestrier, Owen Pulver (NG), Adrian Todorov, Ryan Murphy (Con), Dylan Oliver (BC); 2nd team – Zach Ninekirk, Quincy Rhone (BC), Tyler Johnson, Shane Kiaper, Nathan Wu (NG), Jeremy Payne (YV), Elijah Lopez (Con); HM – Jack Winston (BC), Kevin Krueger, Andre Daigle (NG).

Water Polo Boys: 1st team – Carsten Peters; 2nd team- Jagger Beeken; HM- Brodie Sladek. Girls: 1st team- Kiki Mein; 2nd team – Lauren Hett; HM – Gabi Scheibley.

Girls Golf MVP - Madelyn Gamble; 2nd team – Madison Wu, Samantha Miller.

Those ultimately became the margin of victory for Clayton Valley Charter. Runningback Omari Taylor, a standout as CVCHS won three consecutive NCS games to reach the NorCal Regionals, gained 126 years on 23 carries and scored the first two CVCHS TDs in the back and forth contest. “Nights like this make it all worth it,” Murphy told reporters after the game. “Seeing the smile on the kids’ faces, seeing all the parents happy. Man, it does make it worth it. Amazing. Down two touchdowns that late, it’s so impressive what these high school kids did.”

Football Co-Player of the Year – Shamar Garrett (DLS). Offense 1st team- Ben Roe, Garrett, Matt Vranesh, Grant Daley, Dorian Hale, Blas Guerreo (DLS), Mana Taimani (CV); 2nd Team - Jon Puckett, Brendan Tuholski (DLS), Julian Rodriguez (CV). Defense 1st team- Wyatt Crespi, Chad Tasi, Lu Hearns, James Coby, Clayton Seastrand DLS), Rocky Aven, Kavita Bumgartner (CV); 2nd team- Rask, Richard Faihiua, Taveas Marshall.

Girls Volleyball 1st team- Julia Haggerty; 2nd team – Jackie Brown, EAST BAY ATHLETIC Cross Country Stella Tuffli; HM- Helena LEAGUE Boys: 1st team – Patrick (DLS boys, Carondelet Perez. Curulla, Kieran Brown; 2nd girls. CVCHS football) team - Derek O’Connor.

through Jan. 31 (with a holiday break Dec. 21-29). The program a.m. The breakfast is from 9 a.m.- 12 noon. Call 938-0900 or is geared to help high school swimmers get ready for their spring visit northgatebroncos.org for more info. season. For more info and to register visit terrapinswim.com.

CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE PLAYER REGISTRATION OPEN BEFORE JANUARY TRYOUTS

Registration for Clayton Valley Little League is open for the spring 2020 season. Baseball programs for players ages four to 15 and softball for girls six to 16 are both open for registration. Tryouts are in January and the season runs from February to June. The CVLL program includes a Challenger Division for players with disabilities and special needs. Players must reside within the CVLL boundaries. Email info@cvll.org or visit cvll.org for complete information and to register.

MT. DIABLO HIGH HALL OF FAME CRAB FEED JAN. 20

The annual Mt. Diablo High School Hall of Fame crab feed will be on Saturday, Jan. 20, at Zio Fraedo’s in Pleasant Hill. Tickets are available for the discount price of $55 until Dec. 31, before increasing to $60. The evening, which benefits the school’s Sports Hall of Fame, includes music, dancing, 50/50 raffle and lots of raffle prizes. For more information call Lou Adamo at 212-9332 or email louadamo@gmail.com.

ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES YOUTH BASKETBALL, VOLLEYBALL LEAGUES TAKING SIGNUPS

Youth basketball and volleyball leagues are accepting registrations for winter leagues. Winter basketball league begins this week with the spring league commencing Mar. 13. Winter youth SOCCER PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPEN Boys and girls born between 2009 and 2014 are invited to volleyball starts Jan. 11. For complete information on All Out sign up for the Diablo FC winter soccer development program. Sports programs including camps and clinics, visit alloutsportSessions are held on Mondays and Saturdays on Concord-area sleague.com. fields from Jan. 6 through the end of February. Professional DIABLO FC BENEFIT CRAB FEED coaches from the area’s premier soccer club will focus on techJAN. 31 AT CENTRE CONCORD nical ball skills and offer small-sided games to supplement trainThe 18th annual Diablo FC benefit crab feed, raffle and ing sessions. Visit diablofc.org for details. dance is set for Friday, Jan. 31, at Centre Concord. Tickets are on BREAKFAST WITH SANTA DEC . 22 sale for the event that benefits programs for the local competitive youth soccer club affiliated with the San Jose Earthquakes. BENEFITING NORTHGATE HIGH ATHLETICS The Northgate High School athletic department is hosting Visit diablofc.org for more details and to get information on its 4th annual Breakfast with Santa at Boundary Oak Golf event sponsoring and purchasing crab feed tickets. Course on Sunday, Dec. 22. The event will include an all-youcan-eat breakfast, visit with Santa with free photo from 9-11

DIABLO FC WINTER DEVELOPMENT

December 13, 2019

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

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Lessons learned from Fred Rogers and Carroll Shelby

JEFF MELLINGEr

SCREEN SHOTS

Some believe that everyone is put on Earth for a specific purpose. Although many never find that purpose, Fred Rogers did. Those with childhoods between the mid-’60s and late ’90s likely watched “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” and learned crucial lessons on what their feelings meant. The new movie “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” finds Tom Hanks in the role of our favorite neighbor. Often, a film based on a real celebrity tries to show us their alternate side. Rogers was the rare personality who actually brought his true self aonto the stage. Hanks fully inhabits the legendary presence, nailing all the mannerisms and gentle smiles along the way. Matthew Rhys plays reporter Lloyd Vogel, tasked with writing a brief on Rogers. Bitter and cynical from family strife in his past, new father Lloyd clearly does not understand why he keeps going back for more time with Rogers. As their meetings continue, Rogers slowly gets Lloyd to open up. Rogers wanted to use his

program to reach every child he possibly could, however, this film is more about his impact on one man. Rogers was the type of person who would likely say that if he only reached one person in his 35 years on the air, it would still have been worth it. AIf you’re looking for something with more action, opt for “Ford v Ferrari” – where director James Mangold trades in the guns for racecars. Mangold is no stranger to action sequences, from 2007’s “3:10 to Yuma” to 2017’s “Logan. In Mangold’s new film, Christian Bale gets behind the wheel as legendary racer Ken Miles. In the early 1960s, Miles’ long-time friend Carroll Shelby (a nononsense Matt Damon) is hired to help Ford beat Ferrari in the 24-hour Le Mans race. Miles is an excellent driver who realizes it’s time to give up the dream and focus on family, yet he finds it hard to do so when Shelby presents an employment opportunity. A highlight of the film is Tracy Letts in the role of Henry Ford Jr. Letts delivers more in a few stoic facial expressions than some bigger actors do in an entire film. Known somewhat affectionately as “The Deuce,” Ford is ever overshadowed by his father and grandfather. Ideaman Lee Iacocca (Jon Bernthal) convinces Ford that in order for the company to get out of the doldrums, they need to get into big-time rac-

organized by genre: “Lincoln,” “Spotlight,” “Wolf of Wall Street,” “The Favourite.” “Guardians of the Galaxy” (1 and 2), “Thor: Ragnarok,” “Wonder Woman.” “21 Jump Street,” “Lady Bird,” “Grand Budapest Hotel.” “The John Wick Trilogy,”

“Mission Impossible” (4, 5 and 6), “Green Room.” “The Conjuring,” “Hereditary,” “Paranormal Activity,” “The Gift,” “It Comes at Night.” “Roma,” “Florida Project,” “Room,” “Amour,” “Tree of Life,” “La La Land,” “Hell or High Water.” “Inception,” “Interstellar,”

“Gravity,” “Arrival.” “Inside Out,” “How to Train Your Dragon” (the trilogy), “Toy Story” (3 and 4).

bloodhound named Dennis. ST loves Big Jim and sometimes considers himself more human than crow. That identiSuNNy SOLOMON problem permeates this BOOKIN’ WITH tyfable. ST has much to learn, as do the readers. SUNNY One day, an already eccenAre you a nature lover? A tric Big Jim begins to exhibit hiker? A botanist? A stargazthe most bizarre behavior er? A bird watcher? If so, after one of his eyeballs falls please consider Kira Jane Bux- from his head. ST retrieves ton’s debut book, “Hollow the eyeball and stores it in the Kingdom.” cookie jar, but not before Big It is called a novel, but I Jim begins to drool and still adhere to Mary retreats to the basement – McCarthy’s caveat, “If the ani- where he starts to poke his mals talk, it is a fable.” fingers into the wall. In ST’s Without giving too much words, “Big Jim was never the away, it’s the story of a crow, same again. None of us ST, and the world in which he were.” finds himself. It’s a world “Hollow Kingdom” is told changing in the most danger- in the voice of ST. “I’m here ous and macabre dimensions. to be utterly honest and tell ST was taken in as a fledg- you what happened to your ling by Big Jim, who lives in a kind. The thing none saw Craftsman home in a Seattle coming.” neighborhood. He lives with Curiously human-like in Big Jim and a lop-eared his thinking, ST becomes

increasingly more crow as the story unfolds. It is an apocalyptic tale filled with zombielike humans in the process of losing their humanness. Buxton is a master at describing the visual effects of whatever is happening, and in ST she has created a memorable, wisecracking, profanely observant, heroic and loving character. One of ST’s first flights from his Craftsman home after Big Jim retreats to the basement is to go to Walmart in the hope of stealing some medicines that he believes might help Big Jim. The streets are without traffic, and when he reaches Walmart the employees are slobbering, with bobbing heads. They are poking their fingers and heads into anything that resembles a glass-like screen. Animals are not affected by whatever is happening to humans. Some of what ST must

learn is: “For every species there is a calling to evolve, an opportunity for change to ensure survival.” ST learns to become the crow he is, but without losing his hope for the humans he still loves. Buxton has written a wildly imaginative story, and each reader will probably learn something slightly different from “Hollow Kingdom.” I’m not a huge fan of apocalyptic tales, but this one is a keeper. Filled with laughter, tears, despair and hope, it is just the book to read aloud to the whole family (with some words skipped over for younger ears).

ing and defeat the best. Despite some unearned plot points, “Ford v Ferrari” is a highly enjoyable look back at an exciting time in the world of car racing. B+ FAVORITE 40 FILMS As the decade comes to a close, I highlighted some of my favorite films. Here are 40

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Get ready for some bizarre behavior in ‘Hollow Kingdom’

CALENDAR

PLEASE SuBMIT yOuR COMMuNITy CALENDAR EVENTS By 5 P.M. JAN. 6 FOR THE JAN. 17 Dec. 13-15 “Stars Shall Find”

Tapestry Handbell and Vocal Ensemble. 7 p.m. Dec. 13, Faith Lutheran Church, Pleasant Hill. 7 p.m. Dec. 14, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Walnut Creek. 3 p.m. Dec. 15, Walnut Creek United Methodist Church. Goodwill offering to benefit Monument Crisis Center. tapestryringersandsingers.org.

Through Dec. 22 “A Christmas Carol”

The Charles Dickens’ classic, brimming with music and dance. Center REP, Lesher Center.

Through Dec. 22 “(Not) A Christmas Carol”

A modern adaptation. Onstage Repertory Theatre, Campbell Theater.

Through Dec. 28 “Artful Giving”

Holiday collection filled with gift options. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays and Mondays, Valley Art Gallery, 1661 Botelho Dr., Suite 110, Walnut Creek. valleyartgallery.org or 925-935-4311.

Through Dec. 29 “Bring Beauty Into Your Life”

Paintings, jewelry, ceramics and metal sculptures for holiday gift giving. Main Street Arts, 613 Main St., Martinez. mainstreetarts.net or 925-269-8049.

FUNDRAISERS

2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast

ISSuE. ITEMS MuST BE SuBMITTED By EMAIL TO

HEALTH

Jan. 18 “Understanding Breast Cancer Risk Factors”

A panel of medical experts will give an overview of the genetic counseling process, MRI breast screening guidelines, understanding extremely dense breast tissue findings, recommendations for chemoprevention therapy and lifestyle changes, followed by a Q&A. 6:30-8:30 p.m., Lafayette Library Community Room, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. RSVP at sjung@dvohmg.com or 925-677-5041.

Tuesdays Farmers Market

IN CONCORD

10 a.m.-2 p.m., Todos Santos Plaza. pcfma.org.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Through Dec. 15 “Off Menu: Contemporary Art About Food”

From Salvador Dali to Wayne Thiebaud. 12-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, Bedford Gallery, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. bedfordgallery.org or 925-295-1418.

Through Dec. 21 “Cinderella: A Fairytale”

West Coast debut of this family-friendly tale. Town Hall Theatre.

Jan. 14-Feb. 22 “The Devil’s Music, the Life and Blues of Bessie Smith,” The incredible career, loves and losses of the “Empress of the Blues.” Lesher Center.

Jan. 17-Feb. 2

Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8-11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, “The Glass Menagerie” 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwTennessee Williams classic. Onstage Repertory Theatre and Plotpost1525.org. line Theatre Company, Campbell Theater.

Jan. 18 Bay Area Crisis Nursery Crab Feed

All you can eat Dungeness crab, French bread, pasta and salad, plus auction items. Garaventa Center at Carondelet High School’s Garaventa Center, 1133 Winton Dr., Concord. $65. bayareacrisisnursery.org/events/crab-feed/.

Feb. 1 Concord High School Athletic Boosters Club Crab Feed

All you can eat crab, tri tip, salad, pasta and garlic bread, plus silent and live auctions, a dessert auction and dancing. Must be at least 21. 6-11 p.m., Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road. $60. concordhighschool.net/crabfeed.

Jeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. Send email comments to editor@pioneerpublishers.com.

Jan. 25 Jubilee Road

A trio of singers/instrumentalists. 7:30 p.m., Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $15 at the door. Contact Lyle Swallow at 925-689-5070 or lswallow@astound.net.

Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’

calendar@pioneerpublishers.com

AT THE LIBRARY

Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Full schedule at ccclib.org/locations/Concord.html. 925-646-5455.

Coffee and Conversation: Holiday Mixer, 2 p.m. Dec. 16. Family Movie: “The Year Without a Santa Claus,” 7 p.m. Dec. 16. Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10:15 a.m Tuesdays. Ages 0-3. Forever Young: Adult Book Club, 4 p.m. Dec. 17. Preschool Storytime, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Ages 3-5. Adventures in Coding, 3 p.m. Dec. 19. Registration required. Monthly Movie for Adults: “Downton Abbey,” 6:30 p.m. Dec. 19. Library closed, Dec. 24-25. Talkfest, 5:30 p.m. Jan. 2. Concord Knitting and Crochet Group, 1:15 p.m. Jan. 5. eBook Appointments, 3-5 p.m. Jan. 7. Registration required. Monthly Movie for Adults, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 9. Concord Mystery Book Club, 1 p.m. Jan. 12. Chinese New Year Event, 6 p.m. Jan. 13.

Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. Full schedule at ccclib.org/locations/Clayton.html. 925-673-0659. Patty Cakes Storytime, 11 a.m. Tuesdays. Ages 0-3. Picture Book Storytime, 11 a.m. Thursdays. Ages 3-5. Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Dec. 23, Jan 13. Library Book Club, “A Girl Named Zippy” by Haven Kimmel, 7 p.m. Jan 13.

GOVERNMENT

1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Concord City Council

6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.

1st and 3rd Wednesdays Concord Planning Commission

7 p.m. Council Chamber, Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.

1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council

7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. ci.clayton.ca.us or 925-673-7304.

2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission

7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. ci.clayton.ca.us or 925-673-7304.

Theater Contact Key

Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St., Martinez. campbelltheater.com. 925-350-9770.

Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.org. 925-943-7469. Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School St., Lafayette. townhalltheatre.com. 925-283-1557.

Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at concordpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’

Page B6

T HE ARTS

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

December 13, 2019

Have a Dickens of a time at local theaters

tinez Campbell Theater. John Blytt stars in this modern interpretation of the Charles Dickens classic. In this fun-filled work, which I wrote in 2015, Scrooge is a KATHryN G. MCCArTy multibillionaire chairman of ON THE MARQUEE an oil conglomerate. With more than 20 actors playing 60 roles, the play is Tonight is opening night full of laughs. Haley Keenan for “(Not) A Christmas is Jacob Marley, comic actor Carol,” produced by Onstage Sarah Piane stars as a Valley Repertory Theatre at the Mar- girl, and Dodie Katague plays

Cratchit. The show runs Dec. 13-22. campbelltheater.com. You can also cast out all the humbugs with lively area productions of the classic Dickens story “A Christmas Carol.” Center REPertory Company and the American Conservatory Theater both offer beautiful, traditional adaptations embellished with seasonal music, dance and spectacular ghostly effects. The show at ACT’s Geary Theater in San Francisco runs through Dec. 24; act-sf.org. The Center REP show closes Dec. 22 at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek; lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-SHOW.

Stu Selland

Motomush

John Blytt appears with Luna Medina and Brooklyn Maya in “(Not) A Christmas Carol” by Onstage repertory Theatre in Martinez.

Lindsay Kathryn Ford, front, and Lourdes Verde Lombardo star in “Cinderella: A Fairytale” at Town Hall Theatre in Lafayette.

Concord resident Carmen Lessa plays in the Ensemble of 42nd Street Moon’s beloved holiday musical “Scrooge in Love.” It runs through Dec. 22 at San Francisco’s Gateway Theatre. 42ndstmoon.org/scrooge-inlove. In its 8th season, Clayton Theatre Company is producing “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.” Directed by La Tonya Watts, with Roxanne Pardi assistant directing, the show will run March 19April 4. claytontheatrecompany.com. Transport yourself to 1937 for an electrifying evening with Bessie Smith, who recounts her incredible life, career, loves and losses and the songs that made her the show-stopping “Empress of the Blues.” Katrina Lauren McGraw stars in “The Devil’s Music, the Life and Blues of Bessie Smith,” Jan. 14-Feb. 22 at the Lesher Center. lesherartscenter.org or call 925-943SHOW. The mother-daughter team of Anna and Shay OglesbySmith play mother and daughter Amanda and Laura Wingfield in the Onstage Repertory Theatre and Plotline Theatre Company production of the Tennessee Williams classic “The Glass Menagerie.” Directed by Randy Anger, the show runs Jan. 17-Feb. 2 at the Martinez Campbell Theater. campbelltheater.com or

Jason Graae is Ebenezer Scrooge in 42nd Street Moon’s “Scrooge in Love” in San Francisco. Concord resident Carmen Lessa plays in the Ensemble.

925-350-9770. For more holiday magic, Cirque Du Soleil’s “Amaluna” takes audiences to a mysterious island governed by goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon. Full of breathtaking spectacle and original music, it plays through Jan. 12 under the Big Top at Oracle Park in San Francisco. cirquedusoleil.com/amaluna. The West Coast premiere of “Cinderella: A Fairytale” features a slew of Bay Area performers of all ages. Town Hall’s Theatre’s former artistic

director Clive Worsley directs the play by Sally Cookson and Adam Peck. Ella’s loving father teaches his little girl the names and calls of all the forest birds and they have a happy life together – until he remarries and her life is upended. Her only allies are a flock of very clever and magical birds. It’s a funny, feisty and enchantingly original take on the classic Brothers Grimm fairytale. The show runs through Dec. 21 in Lafayette. 925-283-1557 or townhalltheatre.com.

Throw in colorful accent to ward off chill

pause on your remote. You’re missing something. Is it chunky or more of a fine silky texture that you crave? Wool, linen, a natural and synthetic blend perhaps? Or JENNIFEr LEISCHEr maybe it’s a Zsa Zsa Gabor DESIGN & DÉCOR inspired faux fur throw you desire? Chunky knit blankets are It’s a cozy feeling to be incredibly chic. You can find snuggled up on the sofa in these oversized knit creyour living room with your ations at well-known retailfavorite TV show or movie, ers, as well as sites like Etsy drink of choice in hand and – where you can choose your a snack or two at arm’s color and custom size. reach. These blankets provide a You may have an actual wow factor in regard to texfire burning with just the ture. They are fantastic stateright amount of toasty ment pieces, whether you embers, or your gas insert is opt for a classic ivory or a turned to a temperature you bold saturated color. You have perfected over the can use them as a throw in a years. living room. Or even better, The stars could quite posbuy one as an oversized quilt sibly be aligned at this very that you fold up at the end moment. But wait. Press

of your bed, at hand’s reach for when the temperature drops this winter. Fine woven cashmere throws can look and feel like clothing but are intended to effortlessly drape over the living room sofa or lounge chair. These blankets may not provide a huge amount of warmth, but they feel as beautiful as they look. They’re a traditional, classic design element to add to a formal setting. Faux fur blankets are down-right fantastic. They fit into any aesthetic, depending upon the fur pattern, the texture of the fur and how the backside of the fur throw is finished. They can be casual and festive, or elegant and demure. Consider a deep dark brown, almost ebony color for a living

A chunky red knit blanket just shouts holiday cheer.

room with earth tones. For an all-white living room, go for a fur pattern that has hints of gray with even darker gray speckles. There’s certainly nothing

wrong with a hand-knit blanket. Many times, this is the only way to truly nail down a specific color in your living room scheme. If you just so happen to be skilled in knit-

ting, the possibilities for your perfect throw are endless. Sites like Etsy, Houzz and Pinterest will provide you with all sorts of inspirational designs. When selecting a throw, the color palette should complement your furnishings, or be festive and unique, honoring the current season. Think of a throw as you would a pillow: a decorative accent, an opportunity to add an accent color and texture, and literally, a design element that you can wrap you up this holiday season.

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

December 13, 2019

MAGGIE LENNON

SAVVY SENIOR

In this holiday season of good cheer, let’s raise a glass to celebrate surviving another year. We should especially toast the seniors of the world who asked: What’s age got to do with it? Then, they went out and broke stereotypical barriers about what it means to get older. Take Ida Keeling, who at 104 just published her memoir, “Can’t Nothing Bring Me Down; Chasing Myself in the Race against Time.” After the loss at 66 of her two sons to drug-related murders, Ida fell into a deep depression. She may have stayed there had it not been for her daughter, who was worried and per-

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Too old? Not according to these record breakers group. Think too of Simon Murray, who took on the South Pole in Antarctica. At 9,301 feet above sea level, the South Pole is a frozen desert with temperatures reaching 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Murray went alone at 63, trekking 1,200 km from the Hercules Inlet on the Zumberge Coast. It took him two months, and he became the oldest man to complete it unsupported. Hockey player Gordie Howe not only broke several NHL records but retired at 52, way past the average age At 104, Ida Keeling is still that hockey players stay in setting records the league. Then there’s Doris Self, suaded Ida to go for a run who ventured into the prewith her. dominant domain of young Running became a passion men – video games – late in for Ida, leading to her first life. At 86, she clenched the 5K race and eventually to world record for video gamholding the world record for ing at the Video Game Masthe fastest time in the 60ters Tournament on Twin meter dash for the 95-99 age Galaxies Tournament Set-

tings, which is seemingly the most difficult settings in the game. American swimmer Pat Gallant-Charette was 66 and a grandmother when she became the oldest woman to swim the English Channel, while Jessica Tandy and Henry Fonda were both in their 80s when they won Oscars. So as you make new year’s resolutions and are feeing like it’s too late or you’re too old to begin something, think of these inspirational people who overcame huge obstacles. Let their success lead you toward any dreams with renewed hope.

Page B7

CLAYTON FURNITURE, Inc.

Locally Owned Family Business Since 1988 Consistently 5 stars on

(925) 686-2299

“As soon as we walked in, we knew we were walking out of there with new furniture. Cool selection…friendly staff…worked with our budget.”

Claytonfurnitureinc.com

3400 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA

Providing Dignified Professional Services

Maggie Lennon is a writer and photographer who writes about navigating the aging process. Check out her blog, “The Sensational Sixties. An everywoman’s guide to getting older.” Contact her at maggielennon164@yahoo.com.

Keith Collins – Managing Partner John & Sharon Ouimet • Don & Bea Ouimet

4125 Clayton Road, Concord, CA 94521 925.682.4242 • fax 925.682.4281

Freddie finds hope under the Rainbow The Rainbow Community Center strives to promote community and personal well-being, but each person’s journey is different. Today, I want to share 23-year-old Freddie’s experience with Rainbow: Being at Rainbow feels very calming. You don’t have to stress. I’m staying in a shelter right now, and my case manager there connected me to Rainbow. It’s really helped me out a lot. When you’re at Rainbow, your stress levels go down, and it’s great to have that support. Everybody is not exactly the same as me, but it’s like we all have a basic general understanding that it’s OK to be yourself here. And that’s pretty cool. I’m currently attending community college, studying psychology. I got interested in psychology in high school when I took psychology and sociology classes, and they were really fun. After I get my degree, I’d like to go into

social work because I want to give back to the community. Being a homeless LGBTQ youth, I want to help people the way people have helped me. Rainbow has restored my confidence, so I can feel comfortable in a work environment. They assist LGBTQ youth with clothes and transportation they need for job interviews and on the job. I couldn’t have gotten my job without Rainbow. Having this job has given me an opportunity to grow as a person, to learn how to take care of myself and be responsible for my own life. It’s a lot of fun, honestly. My co-workers are really sweet, and the customers are nice, hard-working people. My job has shown me that I can work toward something better than minimum wage. You can get support at Rainbow that you might never have had but always needed. If you need transportation or a place to live,

DOrANN ZOTIGH

ALL

THE

COLORS

Rainbow has your back. You can call them really late, and they’ll always answer your call. They won’t leave you hanging. They’ll always be there to make sure you’re not out on the street. Rainbow’s services are really important for your mental health and general safety. Everybody needs support and foundation, and you can’t get that foundation without having support. If you’re lost and don’t know where to go, Rainbow is a light at the end of the tunnel. They’ve helped me out in so many ways. Dorann Zotigh is the board president of the Rainbow Center serving the LGBTQ community in Concord. Send questions and comments to Dodi@rainbowcc.org.

Meet ARF stars Benny and Selena

time! It’s so entertaining watching her enthusiastically pounce on mouse toys while having fun and being the center of attention. She is hoping for a home with toys at every corner and daily opportunities for interactive wand play. Although not a cuddler, Selena is sweet and likes a few gentle pets before she walks away to happily hunt her toys.

BENNY

SELENA

enough fun and engaging One-and-a-half-year-old activities to fill the schedule Benny is an athletic, exuberof such an active, in-demand ant little guy set to charm his fellow! way into your heart! When The adoption fee for puphe’s not racing around the pies (<6 months) is $300, for yard at lightning-fast speed or adult dogs is $250, for senior playing a spirited game of dogs (7+ years) is $125, and fetch or tug-of-war, this outincludes a discount on the going superstar enjoys first six-week session of a schmoozing and showing off manners class. with family and friends! Benny’s also an unapologetic Two-year-old Selena is a toy fanatic, and he likely friendly girl that happily greets won’t say no to a delicious new people and says hi with rawhide chew either! Benny precious meows. Her favorite would be a great fit for a activity in the world is playhome that can offer him

The adoption fee for kittens (under 6 months) $125 or 2 for $200, for adult cats is $75 or 2 for $100, and for senior cats (7+ years) is $50.

Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: noon to 6 p.m Wed. and Thurs., noon to 7 p.m. Fri. and noon-6 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference. For more information see website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256-1ARF.

Private Office space for rent. Call Matt at 925-766-6745 for details.

Active

244 Promenade Ln. Danville, $937,500

3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, approx. 2195 sq.ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

Pending

2534 Talaria Dr. Oakley, $585,000

4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom, approx. 2923 sq.ft.

Listing agent: Rula Masannat

PENDING Buyer’s Rep

728 Black Pointe Pl. Clayton, $849,000 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, approx. 1760 sq.ft. Listing agent: Rula Masannat

4297 Morgan Territory Clayton, $1,049,000 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, approx. 1899 sq.ft.

PENDING Buyer’s Rep SOLD Buyer’s Rep

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

20 Emerson Concord, $1,070,000

4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, approx. 2917 sq.ft. Listing agent: Rula Masannat

Matt Mazzei, Jr.,

Paula & Rod Johnstone

Rula Masannat

BRE# 01881269

DRE# 00797857

DRE# 01923757

Broker/Owner 925-766-6745 matt@mazzeirealty.net

925-693-0757

Broker Associate Paula 925-381-8810 Rod 925-286-5765

heypaula10@gmail.com

Sales Agent 415-310-2905 rulawithmazzei@yahoo.com

MazzeiRealty.net

Page B8

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Who sells more Clayton real estate?

Not Clayton brokers

Head to the mountain while the weather is right

• 70% of all Clayton homeowners DO NOT list with a Clayton Real Estate office*

Back Creek Trail is part of a scenic hike on Mt. Diablo.

• 85% of Clayton home buyers DO NOT hire a Clayton agent to help them buy their home*

Mt. Diablo State Park

• Brokers outside of Clayton sell Clayton homes on average FASTER and for MORE MONEY than do Clayton brokers*

• Newer, luxury brand real estate companies like Compass simply offer more client benefits & greater property exposure.

IF YOU WANT YOUR CLAYTON HOME SOLD QUICKER AND FOR MORE MONEY, YOUR CHOICE IS EASY. CALL ROBERT MOODY!

Robert Moody Broker Associate Clayton resident

925.216.6130

Robert.moody@compass.com DRE 00984573

A tradition built on personal service since 1988

How is Compass different? Compass Concierge

Exclusive to Compass, our Concierge program pays the upfront cost to get your home ready for market. From minor projects such as painting, flooring, landscaping, property staging and moving expenses to major renovations like a kitchen and bath remodel, plumbing and roof repairs, at Compass we can transform your home allowing us to sell it faster and at a higher price without you spending a dime on upfront home improvements.

Compass Bridge Loan

Imagine tapping into an exciting new pool of buyers. Compass Bridge Loan Services gives homeowners the purchasing power to make an offer on a new home without waiting to sell their existing one. That means I can help access buyers who are ready and able to move quickly when they see a house like yours on the market.

Compass Coming Soon

Learn how we can launch your listing twice with our exclusive coming soon platform. This powerful tool is designed to generate increased buyer activity and greater exposure for your home before hitting the MLS and other real estate publications. Only at Compass can we give you a curated audience of potential buyers even before our first open house.

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.

*Stats from MLS sales 1/1/2019 through 11/15/2019

December 13, 2019

KEVIN PArKEr

HIT

THE

TRAIL

What: regency Cutoff Trail, Donner Canyon road, Hetherington Loop Trail, Cardinet Oaks Trail, Wasserman Trail, Bruce Lee Spring Trail, Donner Cabin Trail, Tickwood Trail, Back Creek Trail and Bruce Lee road Distance: 6+ miles Duration: 2.5-3 hours Level: Strenuous Elevation gain: 1,000+ feet

After a big rain, Mt. Diablo delivers a slow and deliberate gravitational pull that puts outdoor lovers in a nature-induced trance. The devil mountain stands tall and proud as the backdrop of our cities and a gateway to adventure. With more than 20,000 acres to enjoy, Mt. Diablo State Park has year-round recreation opportunities. But some of the best hiking comes this time of year. I left Dana Hills and connected to an unnamed trail near the entrance of Marsh Creek Villas to Regency Gate. Mt. Diablo clay can wreak havoc on shoes and bike tires alike if trail conditions are not ideal. These trails proved otherwise, and the conditions were an epic “fresh tracks” of sorts. Donner Canyon Road took me up the heart of the Clayton side of Mt. Diablo, to a quick detour past Donner Cabin and finally onto Hetherington Loop. This is a must-hike detour with clever routing, thickets of manzanita, trees and the pungent smell of fresh rain on local flora. The trails throughout most

of the hike were hard-packed dirt and silt, with the ever-present rocks and roots, but the rains transformed them over night into sure-footed perfection. I zigzagged over and around bends, up hills, through creeks and found my way back to Donner Canyon Road. I continued onto Cardinet Oaks, which is mainly a fire road, but the views of Clayton and beyond reveal themselves at almost every bend. Just as quickly, you dive back into trees, dense brush and poison oak with leaves devilishly missing this time of year. Pass the Falls Trail junction and continue uphill until you reach Wasserman Trail. If I were going to run into Bigfoot on a trail, Wasserman would be my pick for the rendezvous. This trail skirts the northeastern boundary with limited trail traffic, if any at all. Groves of pine trees, deep thickets of shade and flowy trails with some of the best views of the area make this a trail not to miss.

On Thanksgiving weekend, the blocking ridge that kept California bone dry throughout the early fall season finally broke down. The polar and subtropical jet streams worked in tandem to deliver a series of storms that soaked California and the Bay Area. A polar jet stream pattern change triggered the eastward movement of the blocking ridge. When the ridge was stationary, the polar jet at our longitude arched well into central Canada. After several weeks of little movement, this jet stream pattern finally began to change. In mid-November, a polar jet stream trough began to develop over the cold waters of the Gulf of Alaska. After several days, the strong winds in the trough began to weaken the West Coast ridge and nudge it eastward toward the Rockies. The energized polar jet stream dipped southward as it approached the West Coast. The cold moist air carried by the jet formed a strong surface weather front as it approached our state. By Thanksgiving afternoon, maximum temperatures had plunged 20 to 30 degrees in two days. Many Bay Area

be provided by the southernmost edge of the polar jet. In the aftermath of the Thanksgiving day storm, a developing subtropical jet in the central Pacific was steered toward the California coast. Our storm pattern was about to change. Satellite photographs showed a moisture-packed WOODY WHITLATCH line of clouds associated with WEATHER WORDS the subtropical jet stream that stretched from the Hawaii to weather stations reported California. Historically, meteomore than an inch of rain, rologists referred to this alignand snow levels dropped to ment of the subtropical jet as below 3,000 feet. a Pineapple Express, but the The abnormally cold popular terminology now is weather did not last long. atmospheric river. Soon after the polar jet stream Regardless of terminology, pattern became progressive, a several wet storms followed strong subtropical jet develthe initial cold storm that oped in the central Pacific. broke the dry spell. It is The subtropical jet has somewhat like watching a some interesting characteristrain pass by; the polar jet tics. Unlike its omni-present storm represents the locomocousin the polar jet, the subtive pulling several subtropical tropical jet develops then jet storms behind it. fades out. Also, it doesn’t travThe wet weather has finalel in distinct waves like its kin ly arrived, and the polar and to the north. subtropical jet streams have When a subtropical jet settled back into their normal forms over the central Pacific, winter patterns. it can be quite moisture-laden as water from the warm ocean Woody Whitlatch is a meteorolevaporates into the air mass ogist retired from PG&E. Email below the jet. Steering curyour questions or comments to rents for the subtropical can clayton_909@yahoo.com

Wasserman loops around and ends where you started on Hetherington Loop. Make the easy hike back down and link up to Donner Cabin Trail as the grand finale route. Donner Cabin Trail was slippery and muddy, unlike all other trails, but a steady climb to the junction of Tickwood and then eventually onto Back Creek Trail was a great way to end the day. Tickwood puts you onto the lower portion of Back Creek, so enjoy the scenery while you can before catching Bruce Lee Road. I scampered through a dry creek bed and followed Bruce Lee Road down to the pond, finishing my hike on another no-name trail that took me back to the end of Mt. Tamalpais Drive. I hiked back down through the Dana Hills greenbelt and finished near my start point. Winter is here and Mt. Diablo feeds your soul, so get out there.

Contact Kevin Parker with comments or questions by email at LukeHollywood@gmail.com

And the rain, rain, rain came down, down, down