PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
December 26, 2003
925.672.0500
The road was paved with good intentions BY JILL BEDECARRE Clayton Pioneer
More than 50 Clayton residents came to last week’s city council meeting full of fire and brimstone armed with petitions, objections and documents. They left with sighs of relief and smiles on their faces, even a few “Merry Christmas” wishes were heard among the crowd. In a unanimous vote, the Clayton City Council put a potentially volatile issue to bed by voting against a proposal to re-stripe Marsh Creek Road, making it a one lane-road between Clayton Road at Diablo View Middle School and Diablo Parkway. On a positive note, they agreed to monitor traffic at three key points throughout the city, including Marsh Creek Road and Pine Lane, and to consider the installation of a metering light in front of Rodie’s. The re-striping proposal was the brainchild of Council member Mayor Pete Laurence who expressed concerns over Marsh Creek Road becoming a thoroughfare for East County residents who drive through town during commute hours to con-
nect to Ygnacio Valley Road. The proposal also called for creating additional 90 parallel parking spaces along the onelane section with right turn safety pockets and relocation of existing bike lanes. “It was my brainchild, but not a very good one,” Laurence admitted at the council meeting. But he says he still has concerns about East County residents using Marsh Creek as a “favorite shortcut.” “It’s been my personal view for years that choking the half mile section down (between Clayton Road and Diablo Parkway) was a good idea.” He sited ABAG figures indicating that East County’s population will increase by more than 78,000 people in 30 years forcing more cars on the road and creating a “sound bowl of noise” through Clayton. Although most of the council members admitted they were not convinced that the re-striping was a good idea, they decided to call a special council session on Thursday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 a.m. to perform a “test”. Cones were used to create one lane westbound on the halfmile stretch of road during the early morning commute. It was a bitter cold morning that quick-
ly heated up as council members, donning orange striped Jill Bedecarre / Clayton Pioneer v e s t s , BAD COMMUTE DAY? It was for hundreds of East County and Clayton residents on December 11 at paraded a l o n g 7:30 a.m. when the City Council performed a “test,” creating one lane from Diablo Parkway to Clayton M a r s h Road at Diablo View Middle School. Creek Road to witness the traffic impact. ning when the light turned ing were ready for a fight, but tonight,” chuckled Council Within minutes of the experi- green. Parents taking their chil- their hostility and anxiety were member Dave Shuey. Safety ment, cars backed up, tempers dren to school were angry over short lived. Before they had an concerns, especially with the opportunity to vent, the council parallel parking on Marsh flared and several council mem- the delays. If the early morning test members, one by one, took the Creek, were an important issue bers were subjected to hand gestures and verbal abuse. wasn’t enough to convince the wind from their sails. Mayor for Council member Bill Laurence described the test as a council this was not a popular Pierce’s announcement not to Walcutt. Vice Mayor Gregg idea, 17 negative emails were support the proposal drew Manning was a little more “ 35-minute window of hell.” A few residents came to the sent to the council and only one applause from the audience. The abrupt. “It was a dumb idea. special morning session with was favorable. “It wasn’t Pete’s, rest of the council members “We’ve made mistakes in the their own objections and threats I checked,” laughed Mayor Julie quickly followed suit. “We hear past, and then we’ve had to take to start a petition. Clayton resi- Pierce. Residents who attended you loud and clear. Save some them back. This time we tested dent Dan Walsh was most con- the December 16 council meet- of your vitriol if you brought it it first.” cerned about cars cutting through his neighborhood on Regency Drive, creating safety and speed issues. “There was more frustration in the air (that morning) than normal,” stated And they say nothing ever happens in Clayton? Don’t believe it. Morgan Territory Sheri Neilsen who also lives off burned, wild pigs chowed down on the park, the new gym opened, closed and opened Regency. Commuters were again and Clayton got a new newspaper. Read on for “the rest of the stories.” forced to deal with the bumper Friday, June 27 was a fright- and won. In a 4-0 decision by allow him to vote on any matter to bumper traffic until they ening day for Clayton residents the Planning Commission on that he might have a financial reached Diablo View Middle School where they revved their as a grass fire on Morgan July 8, construction of a 4,175 stake in. In a 3-1 vote, the City engines and took off like light- Territory quickly grew from a square foot, two-story resi- Council upheld the Planning small brush fire to over 120 dence at 256 Bigelow Street Commission’s decision to acres. Since there were no other was approved. The former sin- allow the two-story residence major fires burning in the area gle-story, 2200 square foot res- with a three-car garage to be that day, plenty of resources idence was destroyed by fire in constructed. came to the aid of residents February. Bigelow Neighbors including the California led by Nik and Karen Heisinger CLAYTON’S GYM AND THE Department of Forestry, the appealed the decision stating YMCA MAKE THEIR DEBUT East Contra Costa Fire that the proposed plans did not Two exciting debuts this Protection District, as well as reasonably maintain the priva- year enhanced the lifestyle of engines from surrounding fire cy and view of the adjacent Clayton residents. The Clayton departments as far away as properties, and that, because of Community Gym opened and the state continually reduces Marin. The fire was fought its size, it was not architectural- was christened by the 2003 (some say, steals) the VLF dol- aggressively with 15 engines, ly compatible with existing eighth grade graduating class at lars due Clayton for basic city seven hand crews, three bull- homes in the neighborhood. Diablo View Middle School. dozers, three helicopters, three Councilmember Dave Shuey, The middle school has access services. VLF revenues are the pri- fixed wing aircraft, two air who had been in support of the to the gym during school hours mary revenue source for tankers and an air attack ship. Heisinger’s appeal, was forced and the City of Clayton uses the Clayton. Over 40 percent of the The fire was started by a vehi- to abstain because his home gym for recreational activities registration fee for every car cle traveling off road in the dry was within 500 feet of the See Headlines owned by a Clayton resident grass and was contained by 5 Bigelow residence. The Fair Page 3 comes back to the City to pay for p.m. As the cold, wet weather Political Practices Act does not critical services including law settles in, Councilmember Pete enforcement, street and park Laurence warns that it’s not the maintenance and City Hall oper- time to become complacent ations. In comparison, the City about the real fire danger to Mt. only gets 4.34 percent of the Diablo and the foothills. In a November 6 letter to the new property tax revenues. Clayton is entitled to, and governor, he placed the state of has balanced its budget on, California on notice demanding $662,000 of the Vehicle a response to the no”grazing” License Fees collected for this policy initiated in the early year. This number represents 1990’s which has left the entire 22% of the city’s entire general area of Mt. Diablo a spark away fund budget and averages out to from a major disaster an income stream of $55,000 per month. The check received “M ONSTER HOUSE ” from the state on Dec. 10 was GETS GO AHEAD DESPITE $11,600. What happened to the Photo courtesy of Cheryl Morgan other $43,400? “The check’s in PROTESTS IN JUNE, AN OFF ROAD VEHICLE sparked a fast movBigelow Street neighbors See Services fought, appealed and lost. ing fire and prompted an aggressive multi-agency response Page 11 Seeno construction fought back on Morgan Territory Road.
Critical city services seriously threatened “The system is broken...constitutionally protected revenues for local governments are brazenly usurped by state government and its leaders.” The issue is not new. Local tax revenues, whether coming
GARY NAPPER BY TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Clayton city officials are “mad as hell and they aren’t going to take it anymore.” On Dec, 16, the City Council passed, “unanimously, and with vigor,” a statewide ballot initiative that would require the state to get voter approval before reducing or diverting revenues earmarked for cities and counties. In a report to the council, City Manager Gary Napper, said,
“I’ve been a city manager for 20 years and I have never seen the depths of frustration and fear that this situation has caused.” GARY NAPPER
Clayton City Manager
from property taxes, redevelopment money or Vehicle License Fees (VLF) have been continually eroded for over a decade. But, the issue has picked up steam over the past several months as
Headline stories 2003
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
December 26, 2003
Around Town
Jill Bedecarre / Clayton Pioneer
Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
A PRETTY SIGHT Artist Dick Reeves of Concord recently took advantage of a beautifully sunny day between storms to paint one of the Victorian buildings in down-
town Clayton. Reeves works in oils and has painted many of the historic buildings of Clayton, Antioch and Martinez. His work can be seen at the Clayton Club.
Mike’s Auto Body, Inc of Concord, Walnut Creek and Pleasanton joined 18 other local vendors and gave away three “new” used cars to two families and a youth organization. This is the third year that Clayton residents Mike Rose and his wife Laurie participated in the Akzo Nobel’s National Benevolence program. The two
families and youth organization were among 100 applicants for the program. Each car was also filled with Christmas presents for the individuals, courtesy of the Rose family. Pictured is Clayton resident Ragen Rose, daughter of Mike and Laurie and manager of the Mike’s Auto Body on Fremont Street in Concord.
Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer
CLAYTON BOY SCOUTS CLEAN UP On Dec. 6, Clayton’s Boy Scout Troop 262 placed 90 plants at Diablo View Middle School and cleaned up the area. “It’s important that we give back to the community,” said Scoutmaster Jim Louchis, as everyone pitched in with rakes and shovels to move leaves, soil, debris and mud. Boys and parents participating in the event included Justin and John Beutel, Kevin
and Jim Louchis, Andrew and George Gonzalez, Darby and William Howard, Mark and Brendan Carpenter, Doug and Robby Van Wyck, Jimmy and Andrew Fenner, John Scroggs, Jared Heifetz, Andrew Hall, Nathaniel Garofalo, David Teget, Hunter Nemitz, Tyler Chapman, Drew Davidson, Alex and Michelle Treshler and Madison Filaccio.
Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer
SANTA
AND MRS. CLAUS VISIT CLAYTON Santa and Mrs. Claus and for Santa and Mrs. Claus designed seven of their elves spent an after- by Tom Wills’ CVHS art class. noon at the Clayton Community The Women’s’ Glee Club of Library on Dec. 13. Children Diamond Terrace stopped by to checked in with Santa in the sing Christmas Carols. courtyard, then went inside to CBCA’s Mike Fossen, said visit Mrs. Claus and hear about over 160 children and 150 adults life at the North Pole. The Elves attended the “almost free” event. ran errands, took pictures and ate Pictured clockwise from center, cookies. This is the third year that Santa Claus, Elise Giverink the popular couple has made (kneeling), Bethany Robinson, Clayton a stop on their holiday Benjamin Robinson, Kelsey rounds. Purser, Amanda Moore, Mrs. Adding to the festivities were Claus, Jillian Leblow and Emily desserts provided by CBCA Thompson. member, and festive backdrops
MUSIC STUDENTS SING Voice and piano students of Clayton music teacher, Roxanne Pardi, presented a Christmas concert at Diamond Terrace on Dec. 15. In addition to teaching, Pardi performs with the local trio,Vintage. Joining her and her students for the concert were the other two members of the trio,
Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer
FOR DIAMOND TERRACE Santiago and Joyce Martinez. Pictured: Back row, standing, from left, Cathy Bergero, Linda Davis and Roxanne Pardi (far right.); Center row, seated, from left Angela Mazzei, Megan Pardi, Margaret Jordan, Amy Beutel, Santiago Martinez, Joyce Martinez; Left front, Janice Lalley.
Jill Bedecarre / Clayton Pioneer
STARBUCKS STORY HOUR Books and coffee go hand-inhand at Starbucks in Clayton Station. The children’s story hour is a new program at the coffee shop. A Starbucks’ employee take an hour out of their day to read to children while parents sip their favorite blend and socialize. “We are a kid-friendly store and I wanted to reach out to the com-
munity,” says manager Ericka Cardamone. The program includes a free hot chocolate to all children who participate. The story hour is held every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Starbucks’ employee Tine Perez reads to Kaeli Delmar, 4, of Clayton.
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December 26, 2003
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Headlines, after school hours, on weekends and during the summer. After years of fundraising, the $4.7 million, state-of-the-art facility opened with a full-size basketball court, two cross courts, ancillary rooms and a new 40-space parking lot. In conjunction with the gym opening, the city contracted with the YMCA for the operation, program staffing and scheduling activities. The YMCA has a full-time staff in the gym and offers holiday camps, a host of sports activities and competitive team play for children and adults.
WEEDING OUT THE ISSUES ON LANDSCAPE WOES After numerous complaints from residents about dying bushes, faulty sprinklers and overgrown weeds, the City Council conducted two study sessions and issued a call for a Blue Ribbon Committee to get a handle on the city’s escalating landscape woes. According to city clerk Rhonda Basore, 15 residents have volunteered to be on the committee with their first meeting scheduled for January. Currently the Landscape Maintenance District, created in 1997 when two thirds of the voters approved Measure E, assesses property owners about $120 annually to cover citywide landscape expenses. It will be up to the committee to determine if the district needs to increase revenues or decrease maintenance work. The district expires in 2007 and if the measure does not pass, the city stands to lose more than $500,000. One option that the committee will consider is whether to bring Measure E to the voters as early as 2005, which will give the council time to go back the voters with an alternative plan if the measure fails. PIGGIES EAT CLAYTON COMMUNITY PARK Clayton’s landscape woes were further exacerbated by repeated visits from wild pigs last month that rooted their way through Clayton Community Park like rototillers. The pigs tore up several areas of the park around the picnic tables and playground and made their way downhill toward the ball fields. The city contracted with a private pig trapper, licensed by the Department of Fish and Game to rid the park of the destructive critters. According to Police Chief Pete Petersen, ten pigs were caught and the rest have taken their destructive ways elsewhere. The park has been pig-free lately. For the connoisseurs of species identification, the pigs are a wild boar/feral pig hybrid descending from the European wild board that were
from page 1
brought into Monterey County in the 1920’s.
ST . B ONAVENTURE ’S CONSTRUCTION UNDER WAY Phase I of St. Bonaventure’s multi-phase facilities project began after a series of complications ranging from neighborhood resistance to costly city requirements. Phase I includes a new driveway, two new traffic signals--one at El Camino and another at the church entrance.The next phase focuses on the construction of the learning center, which will be used to house the elementary school during the day, and for parish activities after school hours. CHURCH OPENS OFFICE IN OLD PIONEER INN With a current congregation of over 800, Clayton Community Church celebrated the grand opening of its offices in the historic Stagecoach/Pioneer Inn building in downtown Clayton over Labor Day. The new offices include a community gathering room, library, kitchen facilities, classrooms and outdoor patios. CCC still meets on Sunday at Diablo View Middle School and they are actively seeking 10-15 acres in the area to build a church. Pastor Shawn Robinson started the church with 30 worshippers in 1996 and met in the Clayton Community Library and then moved to Diablo View when the congregation began to grow.
CC WATER DISTRICT PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION GOES SMOOTHLY A new mile-long, 24-inch diameter steel pipeline, designed to improve water service reliability, is now safely in place after five months of intense work by the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). The project began in June and was completed two months ahead of schedule in October. The Water District reported that the project was successful in providing more consistent water pressure and more flexibility in how water is routed through the city. In the case of a major fire, water will be available and plentiful.
CLAYTON PIONEER IS SOLD TO CLAYTON COUPLE Bob and Tamara Steiner purchased the Clayton Pioneer in May and immediately went into production mode, designing a logo, hiring staff and getting the first issue off the press on May 9. Since then, the staff moved into new offices in the Village Oaks building on Center Street in downtown Clayton and is currently work-
Page 3
IT'S A DOG'S WORLD
ing on its 18th issue. In eight months, the paper has gone through total metamorphoses with full color pages, community calendar, sports coverage, classified advertising and a series of popular guest columnists. Advertising inches have more than doubled and the paper has grown to 16 pages. In her first column on May 9, Steiner talked about the Pioneer as being the town crier…a newspaper that covers the news of Clayton, what’s happening on the streets, at city hall, in the churches and the schools…a community publication that reports weddings, births and deaths. We’re almost there. The Pioneer has received a few constructive critiques and hundreds of kudos and congrats. There’s work to be done, ideas to develop and stories to research. The Clayton Pioneer is here to stay. It’s your paper and it’s still a ‘brand new day.”
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A 20 year-old Walnut Creek man was arrested Sunday after crashing into a power pole on Clayton Road, and leaving the scene. Raymond Allen allegedly broke into a Walnut Creek home while the occupants slept, stole household items and the car keys and fled in the victims’ 2002 Toyota Solera. Allen drove the stolen vehicle to Clayton where, around 7:30 a.m., he crashed into a power pole on Clayton Road across from St. Bonaventure’s Church. The accident left several hundred Clayton and Concord homes without power for most of the day, and forced residents traveling westbound on Clayton Road to detour at El Camino. Three large PG&E rigs were called to the scene and spent nearly six hours repairing and replacing the downed power pole. Shortly after, he was spotted by Concord police at Clayton and Kirker Pass, and was arrested on an outstanding warrant stemming from unrelated burglary charges. Allen is charged with firstdegree burglary for the Walnut Creek home invasion and is being investigated for three other burglaries. Concord and Clayton Police Clayton Police Officer Allen White was first to arrive at the scene.
Pleasant Hill: 228 Hookston Road * 925.906.0130 Novato: 7546 Redwood Blvd. * 415.892.1030
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advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance. LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 Tamara and Robert Steiner, Co-Publishers Tamara Steiner, Editor Jill Bedecarre, Assistant Editor; Display Advertising Jay Bedecarre, Sports Rafi Hashemi, Graphic Design
The Pioneer: It’s your paper HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over
the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print unsigned letters. You can also e-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com
GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517
Tel: (925) 672-4433; Fax: (925) 672-4424
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georgevujnovich.com Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty
ADDRESS
219 Round House Place 321 Mt. Palomar Place 101 Hurd Place 80 Nottingham Place 5614 Bettencourt Drive 25 Barcelona Way 411 Hummingbird 139 El Portal Place 1077 Feather Circle 1755 Indian Wells Way 50 La Honda Way
PRICE
$
489,000 635,000 650,000 525,000 627,330 640,000 622,000 769,980 502,000 374,000 665,000
SALE DATE
12/10/03 12/05/03 12/05/03 12/04/03 12/04/03 12/03/03 12/02/03 12/02/03 12/01/03 11/26/03 11/26/03
SF
1939 2694 2115 1850 2479 2324 2467 2428 1703 1235 2390
BED/BATH
3/2.5 5/2.5 4/2.5 3/2 4/3 4/3 4/3 4/2.5 3/2.5 2/2 4/2.5
ADDRESS
6 Long Creek Circle 1813 Yolanda Circle 916 Arrowhead Terrace 6031 Golden Eagle 1206 Easley Drive 5171 Keller Ridge Drive 882 Diablo Downs Drive 590 Mt. Dell Drive 339 Saclan Terrace 6025 Golden Eagle 22 Mountaire
PRICE
325,000 588,000 $ 470,000 719,000 485,000 649,000 1,150,000 445,000 451,000 599,000 759,950
SALE DATE
11/21/03 11/21/03 11/20/03 11/20/03 11/19/03 11/14/03 11/14/03 11/13/03 11/13/03 11/10/03 11/07/03
SF
966 2398 1939 2854 2188 2,843 3,630 1,926 1,749 2,395 2,960
ADDRESS
BED/BATH
2/2 5/2.5 3/2.5 4/3 4/2.5 4/3 4/4.5 4/2.5 3/2.5 4/3 5/3
91 Regency Drive 201 Southbrook Drive 3 Mt. Wilson Way 5694 Clayton Road 18 Rhine Court 90 Mt. McKinley Court 415 Chupcan Place 273 Mountaire 5575 Southbrook 172 Brandywine Place 4110 Morgan Territory
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed
PRICE
610,000 629,500 $ 325,000 459,500 559,900 565,000 468,000 589,000 537,500 872,500 1,060,000
SALE DATE
11/06/03 11/06/03 11/03/03 11/03/03 11/03/03 11/03/03 10/31/03 10/31/03 10/29/03 10/29/03 10/29/03
SF
2,032 2,010 966 1,403 1,776 1,919 1,939 2,481 1,862 3,335 3,880
BED/BATH
4/2.5 4/2.5 2/2 3/2 4/2 4/2 3/2.5 5/3 4/2.5 4/2.5 4/3.5
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Church offers Alpha Course
CEGIELSKI JEWELERS JEWELRY DESIGN & REPAIR
What happens when we die? Nine to five for the rest of my life—is that all there is? I’ve achieved everything I was supposed to, so why am I not fulfilled? How can I ever forgive? How do we deal with guilt? If there is a God, why is there so much suffering? The chance for individuals to express their thoughts, beliefs and concerns and ask any question in a safe congenial environment without being laughed at or told “you’re wrong” or lectured is one reason behind the exponential growth of the Alpha Course. The Alpha Course, started in London more than 25 years ago as a ten-week opportunity to
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December 26, 2003
(925) 682-2855 5354 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521
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explore answers to some of life’s deepest spiritual questions in the context of the Christian faith. Since then, it has spread around the globe. More than 2.5 million people have taken Alpha in 135 countries. There are more than 6,800 Alpha courses running in churches of all denominations as well as homes, work places and even in prisons throughout the United States. Each week for 12 weeks, The Alpha Course features a delicious dinner, a talk and small group discussions. Shawn Robinson, Pastor of Clayton Community Church, emphasizes “Alpha is for anyone – atheists, agnostics, people
exploring spiritual questions, people with little or no background in Christianity, and those who want to brush up on the basics of the Christian faith. No one is pressured if they choose not to continue with the course –they are as free to leave as they had been to join.” Jim Ondersma of Clayton and an Alpha Course leader adds, “The Alpha courses are fun, create friendships and establish community.” “People come back week after week because of the friendship,” says Brad Carter, another leader in the course.” One participant said, “After nine weeks of Alpha, I’m walking around feeling inspired,
positive, and excited about life. I notice stirrings of change in me: Cynicism seems to have fallen by the wayside. Does this mean I’m discovering God? I don’t know, but I hope so.” On January 11, Clayton Community Church will be offering an Alpha introductory dinner at 6:00 p.m. at 6055 Main Street in downtown Clayton. Anyone, from any background or belief is invited to join. For more information on Alpha, call 925-673-9060 or e-mail alpha@claytoncc.com. For more information about the Alpha Course, check out the Alpha USA website at www.alphausa.org.
a sumptuous meal for two
Library to showcase artists
Start with our classic Caesar salad, followed by a one pound filet mignon car-broiled, roasted, then plank carved tableside $54.95 per the couple
The Clayton Community Library Foundation is seeking artists to showcase in a spring art celebration on March 6. The Foundation’s focus is to highlight local community
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members and their various artistic talents, and to make the event as educational, interactive and “hands-on” as much as possible, so that the art form “comes to life.” The artists will be selling their work with a small portion being donated to the library foundation to raise funding to help cover the 27 percent that was eliminated from their 2003/2004 materials budget. In an effort to enhance the overall learning experience, the library will provide books and materials indoors to check out on the various forms of art. The event will be held in the Community Room of the library, adjoining the outdoor courtyard as well as the certified Wildlife Habitat. So far, some of the activities lined up for this event are: a local “mom” artist will be leading a sidewalk chalk contest, librarian Doug Thomas will be
displaying “lutherie,” the art of making stringed instruments, a potter will be demonstrating the use of a wheel, local schools will have their watercolors displayed and painters will do a “live” demonstration of various painting techniques outdoors in our certified Wildlife Habitat while using “live” wildlife subjects. We are the only library located in the State of California to be certified through the National Wildlife Federation and only one of seven nationwide. Diana Granados from Native Bird Connections will be back again to bring her wonderful wild birds as the “live” subjects; they include a Great Horned owl and hawks. Diana’s wild birds were previously included among the 67 other nature-related projects that the library successfully presented during the past year as part of their Nature Friendly Grant programs. The funding for the past nature grants were applied for and received by the Contra Costa County, “First Five” Children & Families
Community Connections
Commission and successfully brought “nature to life” with programs on conservation, ecology and nature to over 1,200 local preschool & elementary students, their families and teachers. “Last May at the library’s final celebration and butterfly release, we brought in well over 250 people on that one day alone and we hadn’t even advertised the event in the local papers,” stated Library Event Coordinator, Arlene KikkawaNielsen. Kikkawa-Nielsen went on to state, “The Library Foundation will be heavily advertising the upcoming Spring Art Celebration which is scheduled for Saturday, March 6, 2004; and we anticipate a large turnout for this fun and interactive event. We want it to be a community event that benefits both the public and helps us to purchase more library materials.” If you are interested in participating, please contact Arlene Kikkawa-Nielsen, Event Coordinator at (925) 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org
December 26, 2003
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Paws and Claws
A weighty New Year’s resolution MARYBETH RYMER MONTE VISTA VETERINARY HOSPITAL
I hope that the Holiday season has been good to you and your furry companions. Julie Bond’s article last month gave us very useful ways to avoid the stress of the season for all those in the family including our pets. Recently, I had to laugh as I studied the art on the back of a popular monthly magazine. Simply titled RESOLUTION, the painting depicts a contemplative beer-bellied man walking his over-weight Corgi in the snow while behind him women are seen exercising through a health club window. I thought to myself that as we make our own resolutions for improving our health, we should also include our four footers. You can determine if your pet is overweight by assessing body condition. Veterinarians have three levels for scoring body condition. With ideal weight, the ribs can be easily felt and there should be an hourglass waistline. When overweight, the ribs are harder to feel under a thin layer of fat and the waist is straight. In the obese pet, the ribs cannot be felt under a thick layer of fat and the waist curves outward. Weigh your pet and set a weight goal. If your dog is too big to lift on to your home scale, your veterinarian will have a floor scale. Start a chart to monitor your pet’s weight loss, type and amount of food and exercise level. Resolve to lower the calories your pet is consuming. First and often the most difficult, is for the whole family to agree on your pet’s diet. Start with eliminating table scraps except for low calorie fruits and vegetables. Baby carrots are ideal for dogs. Keep a bag in the refrigerator where it is easy to reach. Carrots are great for cleaning teeth, too. Many cats love can-
taloupe. But, no grapes! They can cause vomiting and diarrhea. If your pet is on an adult maintenance diet, switch to a light diet that will be approximately 20 to 25 percent less in calories. Read the label and feed the amount for the ideal weight goal, not the present weight. If you reduce the volume of food by 25 percent, you may find your pet begging for more. For this reason, all low calorie diets have additional fiber to help satiate the appetite. If your pet is on diet food and not losing, see your veterinarian to evaluate if there are health reasons for weight gain such as hypothyroidism and diabetes. Your veterinarian may discuss switching to a prescription diet highly reduced in calories, up to 50 percent. Regular rechecks will help assess your pet’s response to these diets. New studies have found that many cats lose weight better on a “meokins” diet. This is essentially high protein and low carbohydrate. Your veterinarian can advise if this food is right for your cat. Resolve to improve exercise for all your family. A walk a day for both you and your dog will help burn calories, lose weight,
increase muscle tone, improve the cardiovascular system and avoid stiff joints. Consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about exercising a dog with arthritis or heart disease. It is much harder to get a fat cat to move. Find a toy that interests your feline. Glitter balls or catnip mice may be enticing. You may discover your cat is a retriever. Wiggle toys, which include feathers, streamers or toys attached to a plastic pole can be wiggled as you watch TV. Or something as simple as pulling a shoestring through the house as you walk can get them up and moving. Supply a tall carpeted cat tree to encourage climbing and jumping. My cat, Newby’s favorite toy is a blade of grass—she loves to chase it as I pull it in circles or figure eights. As with any New Year’s resolution, the result will not be immediate. Plan to achieve the weight loss over 6 to 12 months. Once the ideal weight is achieved, keep your pet on a reduced calorie diet, adjusting the amount and or type of food as needed. Be sure to continue the exercise program. And remember, your veterinarian is always there to help advise with your pet’s weight loss program.
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WHAT'S THE MEANING OF LIFE? Why am I not fulfilled? How do I deal with guilt? Can I ever forgive? You're invited to share a dinner and discuss the answers to these questions and more at Clayton Community Church. You will find a safe and relaxing atmosphere in which to explore your questions of faith. It's a party is for everyone - atheists, agnostics, people exploring spiritual questions, those with little or no faith background, and those who want to brush up on the basics. We'll meet for 12 weeks, but there's no pressure to attend every weekly dinner - it's okay to just come and take a look.
THE DINNER IS FREE AND THE EXPERIENCE IS INVALUABLE! Starting SUNDAY January 11th 2004 6:00PM - 8:00 PM (dinner included) 6055 Main Street, Clayton
Let us know you'r e coming: e-mail alpha@claytoncc.com or call our office at 925-673-9060
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
December 26, 2003
Clayton Sports
Clayton’s top teams of 2003 BY JAY BEDECARRE Clayton Pioneer
Sports and recreation have long been an integral part of the Clayton lifestyle. The Pioneer’s new ownership this year made a commitment to covering local sports activities in our busy community but little did we realize what a wealth of stories and performances we’d encounter in our first six months on the beat. Not only did we have our local teams put up great—-and near great—-performances but we have Clayton residents present and past performing on the regional, national and world athletic stages! We now present a bird’s eye view of one reporter’s look at the Top Clayton Sports Stories of 2003. We didn’t put these in any particular order and would welcome hearing your comments at sports@claytonpioneer.com. This issue focuses on the Top 5 Teams (plus our honorable mention choices) and next issue we’ll shine a light on the leading athletes of the year. Let’s hope 2004 brings plenty of runs, hits and very few errors for the local teams. Play Ball! CV BASEBALL IN NCS FINALS AT OAKLAND COLISEUM Superstar Adam Elliott was
gone and the memory of losing the 2002 North Coast Section championship game at the Oakland Coliseum stuck in the minds of the returning players as the Clayton Valley High Eagles baseball team prepared for the 2003 season. Then disaster struck when threeyear starter Jeff Landry was injured and looked to be out for the season. So what did the Eagles of coach Bob Ralston do? They went out and captured the Bay Valley Athletic League championship and rolled right back to the Oakland Coliseum for a second straight year. After twice defeating Deer Valley of Antioch during the regular season CVHS met with disappointment in the NCS finals, dropping a 4-1 verdict to the Wolverines. “Clayton Valley matched last season’s success by winning the league title and making it to the NCS Championship game for the second year in a row. The team was led by MVP cowinners Sam Ray and Jimmy Gilbert,” Ralston said. Matt Mazzei, Jason Meredith, Sonny Mares, Geoff Byrns and Dale Swinford all were key contributors to the team’s record of 13-1 in the BVAL that included two victories apiece over De La Salle and Deer Valley. Overall, the Eagles were 26-6 with three straight wins in
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CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE ALL-STARS CONQUER DISTRICT 4 For the first time in the league’s long history that dates back to the 1960s, the Clayton Valley Little League 11-12 AllStars won the District 4 championship last July. The Clayton Valley All-Stars of manager Rutherford Pascal and coaches Tim Bruno and Craig Levine won five straight games by featuring strong pitching and defense to stake claim to the local league’s first-ever District title. The District finals game saw Joey Levine hit a three-run homer in the first inning and then take matters into his hands. Levine threw five innings of no-hit ball before withstanding a last-inning rally by homestanding North Oakland as he wiggled out of a bases loaded jam to record the final outs in a 3-2 win. Antonio Acosta, Michael Banks, Vince Bruno, Kevin Chico, Garrett Christiansen, Louie Jacobus, Patrick Keane, Andrew Lassen, Levine, Timmy Mason, Sean Oakes and Kalle Pascal were the CVLL All-Stars who earned wins over Walnut Creek, Concord Continental, Alameda and East County before the pivotal victory over North Oakland. The All-Stars moved on to Sectional play in Woodland where they were eliminated. DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM COPS 11TH CITY MEET About 12 years ago Dana Hills Swim Team president Matt Mazzei and a group of energetic parents got a state-of-the-art 25yard, 8-lane swimming pool installed at the Clayton community. It replaced an inadequate pool originally built there that didn’t meet competitive swimming standards. Since that time Dana Hills Otters swimmers became the dominate rec team in the area.
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They won 10 consecutive Concord Cup City Swim Meets from 1992 through 2001 and were one of the top teams in swim-crazy Contra Costa County while also sending numerous swimmers on to success in USA Swimming programs. Then, in 2002 the Otters were relegated to third place in the City Meet and the doomsayers said the dynasty was over. Coach Karen Goodshaw and her staff worked hard to develop the new Otter Pups program for the youngest age group and the team came out strong for the 2003 season. By the time the 37th annual City Meet rolled around in August the Otters were ready. Led by age group high point winners Kara Kohler, Lexi Wray, Erik Peterson and Danny Boessenecker, Dana Hills not only won the City Meet A Division but swept B Division as well for the fourth time in their history. Dana Hills swimmers recorded 252 personal best times at the City Meet. CVAA FALCONS WINS TURKEY BOWL FOOTBALL Since 1994, the Junior PeeWee Clayton Valley Falcons have made the football playoffs every year with three undefeated seasons and four Turkey Bowl championships but the 2003 Falcon team may well be best to take the field over that time. This year’s Junior PeeWees coached by Douglas Brigance dominated opponents with incredible team speed, gang tackling, balanced offense and amazing maturity and intelligence for young men their age (eight to 10 years, up to 95 pounds). In 12 games they gave up only 22 first downs and yielded three touchdowns while scoring 57 TDs with over 3000 yards of offense and a perfect 12-0 record capped by a 16-0 shutout of the Livermore Titans in the Turkey Bowl. Floyd Williams, Cody Chapple, Freddie Cargile, Duke DaRe and Jason Kidd helped the Falcons to their unbeaten season. The Clayton Valley Falcons PeeWee’s were an undefeated 10-0 in regular season but lost their semi-final game to East County 12-0 while the Falcons Junior Midgets lost a nail bitter in the playoff semis against Napa Saints 6-0 as the CVAA Falcons organization enjoyed a banner season. CVHS FOOTBALL LOSES 3-OVERTIME NCS FINALE Clayton Valley football had suffered through back-to-back three-win seasons when 2003 came around. The senior-dominated team worked hard in the offseason in the weight room, conditioning training, summer camps and two-a-day pre-season workouts. Led by highly-touted twoway player Joe Mortensen, who was coming off an injury-plagued junior year, the Eagles ran over four straight non-league foes including the school’s first-ever out-of-state game in Reno, where they beat the eventual Nevada State champions 17-6. In BVAL regular-season play they lost to Antioch 7-6 in the dying seconds and then fell 13-7 to defending champion Pittsburg in overtime but the Eagles dominated the rest of their opponents. The Eagles steamrollered American 53-6 and beat nemesis Bishop O’Dowd 2414 to reach the NCS finals for the first time since 1998. In the 3A NCS championship game at
Erin Dobratz selected to USA Olympic Team
Indianapolis, IN—-Erin Dobratz capped a remarkable year last Friday when she was named to the USA Olympic Synchronized Swimming Team for the 2004 Games in Athens, Greece. An excited Dobratz called the Pioneer from the site of the final trials in Indianapolis to tell of her selection. When asked when she starts training with the team she said “tomorrow!” She is one of
Diablo Valley College, the Eagles met up with defending 2A titlist Las Lomas of Walnut Creek. In an epic yet error-filled battle, the Eagles scored on their first play from scrimmage and then on their last play capping a furious fourthquarter rally to force overtime. Each team scored touchdowns in all three overtime periods before Las Lomas rolled the dice and went for a two-point conversion in the third OT. They were successful and the sudden end to the 37-36, three-hour game left the Eagle players to drop to the artificial surface of Viking Stadium, realizing they had been so close to the school’s first-ever NCS football title. Despite losing the finale the Eagles ended with a school-record tying 10 victories in 13 games with David Quistgard, Lowell Garthwaite, Ryan Cassity, Elliott Jaggers, Brandon Davis and Tyler Almond earning All-BVAL honors with Mortensen, who was selected league MVP. NCS SOCCER, CROSS COUNTRY & WATER POLO TEAMS IN NCS PLAYOFFS Several other Clayton Valley High School teams earned North Coast Section playoff berths during 2003 and that garnered them honorable mention spots in our list of Top Teams of the year. The boys cross country team coached by Jim Tracy this fall came together to finish second in NCS Division I. Ghani Jamali, All-BVAL runner Will Moser and Adam Coleman crossed as a pack in ninth, 10th and 11th places to pace the Eagles. Colin Szehner and Abdul Jamali completed the five-man Eagles scoring to enable them to comfortably finish second behind De La Salle. The Eagle girl harriers mentored by Bridget Paul were fifth at NCS with Elise Fox and Lindsay Vanderstraeten leading the Eagles at NCS. Coach Dennis Bledsoe’s girl’s water polo team this fall used AllBVAL performances of Aislen Wray, Lindsay Kiyama, Gina DeVecchio, Katie Johnstone and Amber Branske to reach the sec-
nine women on the USA team and will train with her teammates until the Games begin in August. The synchronized swimming team is the first American squad selected for the 2004 Summer Games. The USA is considered a strong Olympic medal contender along with Russia, Japan, Spain and Canada. Earlier this year, Dobratz was a member of the United State Gold Medal team at the Pan American Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Dobratz, 21, is on leave from Stanford University while she trains with the United State Olympic team. The Clayton swimmer, a former Dana Hills Swim Team Otter and graduate of Clayton Valley High School, also took part in the World Championships in Barcelona as the USA claimed third place in the team competition to help position themselves for the Olympics and with the first-place USA team at the Rome Open.
ond round of NCS. The Eagles defeated Northgate 11-2 in their NCS opener before dropping a narrow 2-1 game to perennial power Campolindo to finish the season 16-11. The Eagles boys were the unfortunate team to draw eventual NCS champ Miramonte in the first round of the playoffs and their post-season experience quickly ended. Bryce Walker, Matt Zewan and Kevin Bowen got All-BVAL honors for coach Jim Morgan’s team, who finished third in BVAL league play. CV Eagles soccer has topnotch boys and girls programs going. The Eagles girls were denied by Carondelet from defending their BVAL championship but coach Pat Middendorf’s girls still had a 121-1 league record with 10 shutouts. Captain Kristine Sweat was a three-year team MVP and All-BVAL. Also big parts of the successful season were Kelly Novak, Megan Swan and Jessica Lopez. The Eagles finished with an 18-5-2 record after losing 3-1 in overtime to Washington in NCS. The Eagles boys of coach Chris Colao also reached NCS before falling to eventual finalist Monte Vista to wrap-up the season 16-62 including a consolation championship in the Winter Soccer Classic. Joseph McInerney, Michael Rodrigues, Ryan Colao and Mark Roberts helped the Eagles earn an 8-4-1 BVAL record including a split of 3-2 games against NCS champs De La Salle. Clayton Valley basketball was in a down cycle last year but the boys of coach John Clark performed well in games against teams in their division to qualify for the NCS playoffs, where they lost in the opening round. Adam Henricksen and Brett Lauer, who set a school record for three-point shots made in a game, were the team MVPs.
December 26, 2003
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 7
Clayton Community Calendar Please submit your Clayton Community Calendar events by 5 p.m., Jan. 5 for the Jan. 16 issue. Fax to 672-6580 or e-mail calendar@claytonpioneer.com
BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT Jan. 6, 20, Feb. 3, 17 CLAYTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING @ CLAYTON LIBRARY 7pm. City of Clayton City Council meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of month. Open to the public. Clayton Library Community Room. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. www.co.contracosta.ca.us 335-1900 Jan. 7 DEADLINE FOR CLAYTON PIONEER ADVERTISING IN JANUARY 16 ISSUE Last chance to place advertising or to submit a calendar listing for January 16 first 2004 issue of the Pioneer. www.claytonpioneer.com Jill Bedecarre 672-0500 Jan. 8, Feb. 12 CLAYTON COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MEETING @ CITY HALL 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 Heritage Trail. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 Jan. 13, 27 CLAYTON PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING @ CLAYTON LIBRARY 7 p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. Clayton Library Community Room. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 Jan. 21 DEADLINE FOR CLAYTON PIONEER ADVERTISING IN JANUARY 30 ISSUE Last chance to place advertising or to submit a calendar listing for Jan. 30 issue of the Pioneer. www.claytonpioneer.com Jill Bedecarre 672-0500 Jan. 29 CLAYTON BUSINESS & COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MEETING @ OAKHURST 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting on last non-holiday Thursday of month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon. Oakhurst Country Club. Ed Hartley 672-2272
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Jan. 6 CONCORD 4-H CLUB COMMUNITY MEETING @ FARM BUREAU HALL 7 p.m. 4-H Club meets for Presentation and Project Exhibit Night. Open to youth ages 5 (kindergarten) through 19. Club offers animal & non-animal projects. 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. http://concord4h.i680n.com 646-6543 Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29 ROTARY CLUB OF CLAYTON VALLEY CONCORD SUNRISE @ OAKHURST 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker. Oakhurst Country Club. www.claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640 Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29 WEIGHTS WATCHERS WEEKLY MEETING 10 a.m., 5 & 6:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. Prospective members welcome. Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. 800/326-8450 x2023 Jan. 8, Feb. 5 SONS IN RETIREMENT MONTHLY MEETING @ OAKHURST 12 noon. Sons in Retirement John Muir Branch 19 holds its monthly meeting on 1st Thursday of month. Oakhurst Country Club. 6726418 Jan. 9 PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR SENIORS @ AARP 1:30 P.M. AARP Chapter 524 presents “Prescription Drugs for Seniors: Examining Ways to Save Money.” Pleasant Hill Community Center, 329 Civic Dr., Pleasant Hill (next to the Police Station). Fred Nelson 451-1292 Jan. 13 CLAYTON VALLEY WOMEN’S CLUB LUNCHEON @ HOLY CROSS CHURCH 11 a.m. Clayton Valley Women’s Club meets 2nd Tuesday of month. First meeting of new year includes annual Prayer Service followed by enchilada lunch. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. Mary Tarantino 798-3152 Jan. 21 YGNACIO VALLEY REPUBLICAN WOMEN MONTHLY MEETING 11:15 a.m. Legislation, Americanism & discussion group on political issues of the day. Optional lunch at 12:15. Oakhurst Country Club. www.yvrwf.org 838-2182 Jan. 26 AAUW MONTHLY MEETING @ DIAMOND TERRACE 7:30 p.m. Clayton Branch of AAUW will be hosting monthly meeting.
Slide show presentation on Habitat for Humanity in Worclaw, Poland with Ed & Dee Totman and 14 other Americans who helped build a Global Village project there. Open to the public. Diamond Terrace. Dee Totman 672-6420 Jan. 29, Feb. 26 CLAYTON BUSINESS & COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MONTHLY MEETING @ OAKHURST 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting on last non-holiday Thursday of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon. Oakhurst Country Club. Ed Hartley 672-2272
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Now through Jan. 2 HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAY BY MR. CHRISTMAS 6-10 p.m. See the famous light display of Mr. Christmas that has dazzled the area for 24 years. Drive by and see what new light displays are added this year. Mr. Christmas, 5208 Olive Dr. (between Kirker Pass Rd & Ayers Rd.), Concord. Dec. 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE 2003 @ CLAYTON COMMUNITY GYM 5 p.m.-midnight. Mt. Diablo Region YMCA hosts inaugural Clayton alcohol-free New Year’s Eve activities including roller hockey, basketball/volleyball/indoor soccer, music, dancing, sports TV, big screen family movies, Kinder Gym, Childwatch/activity area, contests and games...and it’s all free! YMCA, Diablo View Middle School, Clayton. www.mdrymca.org 889-1600 Dec. 31-Jan. 1 NEW YEARS EVE & NEW YEARS MASSES @ ST. BONAVENTURE CHURCH 8 p.m. (Spanish) Dec. 31 & 9 a.m. Jan 1. Ring out 2003 or begin the new year with mass. St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Rd. www.stbonaventure.net 672-5800 Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 DIGITAL THUNDER BOWLING @ CLAYTON BOWL 4-6 p.m. Digital Thunder Bowling on Friday afternoons for kids includes music, lights and bumper lanes. Clayton Valley Bowl. 6894631 Jan. 3 CLAYTON HOLIDAY TREE RECYCLING BY BOY SCOUTS 8 a.m. Clayton residents can recycle unflocked trees which should be on street curb for annual pickup by Boy Scouts Troop 484 sponsored by Clayton Business & Community Association. Donations gratefully accepted. Checks can be made payable to Boy Scout Troop 484. Checks can also be mailed to: Boy Scouts c/o Beckham, 5941 Cardinet Dr., Clayton 94517. George Beckham 672-5010 Now through Jan. 23 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SUBSTANCE ABUSE POSTER CONTEST Knights of Columbus Concord Council 6038 sponsors 6th annual Substance Abuse Poster Contest for ages 8-11 and 12-14 in 2 categories “Drug” and “Alcohol”. Local youth were winners at Council, Chapter, State & International levels in last year’s competition. Claire Tryon grey_eototo@msn.com 673-8564 Jan. 10 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CRAB FEED @ ST. BONAVENTURE 6-10 p.m. Concord Council 6038’s annual Crab Feed for Charity. Menu includes crab, pasta, garlic bread, salad, coffee & dessert plus BBQ steak, rice & vegetable by request. No-host bar. Proceeds benefit Concord Knights local charities. St. Bonaventure, 5562 Clayton Rd., Concord. Pat Deplazes 685-0573. Jan. 11 PET VACCINATIONS @ YARDBIRDS 10:45-11:15 a.m. Dogs and cats can get all their vaccinations from a mobile clinic. Yardbirds, 5400 Ygnacio Valley Rd. www.yolanovet.com 672-2790 Jan. 12-16 CLAYTON HOLIDAY TREE CURBSIDE RECYCLING BY BAYSHORE DISPOSAL 6 a.m. Unflocked holiday trees will be picked up from curb on regular service day this week by Pleasant Hill Bayshore Disposal. Trees must be cut into 4’ or less lengths. Cut up trees can also be placed in yard waste carts for regular pick-up. www.pleasanthillbayshoredisposal.com 685-4711 Jan. 16 ELVIS FILM NIGHT @ CSU HAYWARD CONCORD 7-8:30 p.m. Jim Forsher, CSU Hayward Communications professor & award-winning documentary filmmaker, presents unique look at Elvis Presley. Jim’s mom Trude was Elvis’ first secretary & private publicist. From 1956-62 she worked daily with Elvis. They will show highlights from films & newsreels of the day, tied to inside story of how he rose from truckdriver to legend. Free admission. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772 Feb. 13 WORLD CHANGING EVENTS CAPTURED ON FILM @ CSU HAYWARD CONCORD 7-8:30 p.m. Jim Forsher, CSU Hayward Communications professor & award-winning documentary filmmaker, presents this look at first 6 decades of 20th century and the greatest events of the day which
were seen for the first time in newsreels. Free admission. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION Now through Jan. 4 CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS HOLIDAY FOR MDUSD SCHOOLS All schools in Mt. Diablo Unified School District enjoy two-week holiday celebrating Christmas and New Years. www.mdusd.k12.ca.us 682-8000 Jan. 12 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FREE THROW CONTEST @ DIABLO VIEW GYM 5:30-9:30 P.M. 20th annual Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest sponsored by the Concord Council 6038 from . Contest is for 9-14 year olds boys & girls. Winners Compete at Local, District, Regional, State & International levels. All athletes receive frameable participation certificate. Special trophies are awarded to winners and a special free throw patch. Claire Tryon 673-8564 Jan. 13, 20, 27 PATTY CAKES @ CLAYTON LIBRARY 11 a.m. Story time for children up to 3 years on Tuesdays. Clayton Library. www.cclib.org 673-0659 Jan. 14 WHY DOESN’T MONEY MAKE YOU HAPPY LECTURE @ CSU HAYWARD CONCORD 2-3:30 p.m. Robert Ozaki, professor emeritus of economics, discusses money, time & American society. Average American’s income now is much higher than in the 1950s or ‘60s but percentage of Americans who feel satisfied with what they have has hardly risen over time. Dr. Ozaki will offer his thoughts on these & other apparent paradoxes of affluent society. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772 Jan. 14 CLAYTONARTS ACADEMY INFORMATION NIGHT @ CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH 7 P.M. Learn about unique ClaytonArts Academy program for students interested in a visual or performing art specialty including drama, art, photography and video production. All courses are UC approved. Clayton Valley High School, Room M-2, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/claytonvalley Aline Lee 682-7474 ext. 2601 Jan. 15 DIABLO VALLEY & LOS MEDANOS COLLEGES SPRING SEMESTER BEGINS Day, evening and weekend courses for spring semester begin this week with over 40 certificate programs and 2500 classes offered at two of the state’s premier community colleges. Los Medanos College, 2700 East Leland Rd., Pittsburg. www.losmedanos.net 439-2181. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Rd., Pleasant Hill. www.dvc.edu 685-1310 Jan. 15, 22, 29 PICTURE BOOK TIME @ CLAYTON LIBRARY 11 a.m. Story time on Thursdays for children 3-5 years who may attend without parents. Clayton Library www.cclib.org 673-0659 Jan. 15-16 FOLLIES PERFORMANCE EXHIBIT FUNDRAISER @ CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH 7:30 p.m. Clayton Valley High School choir, band, drama, dance, art, guitar & photo students perform and exhibit their works as fundraiser for CVHS Performing & Visual Arts Departments. Clayton Valley High School, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/claytonvalley Elizabeth Wagman 682-7474 ext. 2678 Jan. 19 MARTIN LUTHER KING HOLIDAY Mt. Diablo Unified School District schools, City, County, State and Federal offices are closed in honor of the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. It is a time for the nation to remember the injustices that Dr. King fought and a day to remember his fight for the freedom, equality and dignity of all races and peoples. www.holidays.net/mlk/ Jan. 28 Botanical Heroes & Flora of SF Lecture @ CSU Hayward Concord 7-8:30 p.m. Tom Daniel, Cal Academy of Sciences curator of botany, gives presentation highlighting dramatic, historical roles of botanists Albert Kellogg, Katherine Brandegee, Alice Eastwood & John Thomas Howell in building (and rebuilding) a major center of botanical research at California Academy of Sciences and their efforts to document plants of San Francisco through collections and publications. Free admission. CSU Hayward Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Concord. www.ccc.csuhayward.edu 602-6772 Jan. 28 College Financial Aid Night @ Mt. Diablo High School 7 p.m. All MDUSD parents are invited to get all the information they need for their senior students to apply for financial aid for 2004-2005 college year. A college admissions officer will speak. Lots of handouts. Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant St., Concord. www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/claytonvalley Cheryl Long 682-7474 ext. 3151
Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
December 26, 2003
There’s no place like home Real estate, mortgage loans and home improvement
When to get an appraisal When is a good time to have a property appraised? An appraisal is a professional opinion of the value of a property. Value can be based
on the cost to replace a property, the income a property generates, a property’s market value or a combination of these. You might want a
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replacement cost appraisal to make sure you have adequate a house insurance coverage to rebuild if your house burns down. But at the time you buy, you’re primarily interested in an appraisal that’s based on market value. An appraisal completed by a professional appraiser is required by lenders before they’ll approve your home loan. Although the replacement cost and income approaches to value are considered, it’s primarily the market value of a property that will determine how much the
lender will be willing to lend. An appraiser arrives at an opinion of the market value by comparing the subject property with three others in the vicinity that have sold and closed within the past six months. The appraiser adds value for amenities the subject property has that the others do not. Value is subtracted if the property being appraised lacks amenities in comparison to the others. In some cases, the appraisal will also need to include information about similar properties that are currently
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being offered for sale and ones that have recently sold but aren’t yet closed. In locations where property values have declined recently, lenders
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ESTATE
want to make sure that the value indicated by the sold properties isn’t higher than the current list price of similar properties. In areas where values are increasing, the most recent information on sales that aren’t yet closed may be necessary to justify a market value price that’s higher than the closed sale information indicates. In most cases, the appraisal is paid for by the borrower, usually in advance. The cost depends on the purchase price and location of the property. Generally, the higher the price of the house, the more expensive the appraisal. Although the buyer pays for the apprais-
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al, it’s ordered by the lender or the loan broker, not by the borrower. According to the Federal Equal Credit Opportunity Act of 1991, borrowers who pay for an appraisal are entitled to a copy of it, if they ask for a copy within a reasonable period of time. The request should be made in writing to the lender, not to the appraiser, ideally before closing. Since appraisals can cost several hundred dollars, you may want to ask your loan agent to hold off having the appraisal done until the property has been thoroughly inspected to your satisfaction. This way if the house doesn’t pass inspection scrutiny, you won’t waste money appraising a property you won’t buy. This strategy requires careful planning because you want to make sure that the appraisal is done in a timely fashion so that you can meet your financing contingency deadline (usually 30 days from the time your offer is accepted by the seller). It can take weeks for a property appraisal to be completed, particularly if the real estate or refinance market is active. You wouldn’t want to delay the appraisal if there’s a back-up buyer waiting to buy the house if you don’t complete the purchase. Buyers purchasing a property for all cash, with no loan contingency, should make their offer conditioned upon the property appraising for the purchase price. In this case, you’ll need to order the appraisal yourself. Ask your real estate agent or a reputable mortgage broker to recommend an appraiser who knows the local market. Lynne French is a realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and a Clayton resident. Contact her at: 925-672-8787 or E-mail: Lynne@LynneFrench.com
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Equal Housing Lender. © 2003 Countrywide Home Loans, Inc. Trade/service marks are the property of Countrywide Financial Corp., and/or its subsidiaries. Up front approval is subject to satisfactory appraisal and title review and no change in financial condition. Some products may not be available in all states. Prices and guidelines are subject to change without notice. Restrictions apply. All rights reserved
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
More real estate, mortgage loans and home improvement
Flower of the Holy Night: the lovely poinsettia Poinsettia, Euphorbia pulcherrima is the most beautiful euphorbia around. This Christmas plant was brought to the United States from Mexico one hundred years ago by a man named Dr. Joel Poinsett. There is an interesting legend surrounding the Poinsettia. The story is about Maria and her young brother, Pablo. A Christmas festival was held each year in their village, and it included a large manger scene. On Christmas Eve, the people offered gifts to the Baby Jesus. The poor brother and sister had nothing to give but the weeds they picked growing along the roadside. When Maria and Pablo placed the green plants around the manger, miraculously the green top leaves turned into bright-red petals. Soon the beautiful, star-shaped flowers we see today surrounded the entire manger. Each year we buy and gift these beloved December delights. They decorate our entryways, and splash festive color on our landings and hearths. Whites, plumbs, ruffled and the all time favorite, red. Poinsettias are the flowers of Christmas. Now that we have them, what can we do with them? Poinsettias are touchy to Clayton’s climate. Since they are from Mexico, our winter cold can be the death of them. Over-watering and neglect can be the death of them: if they are stored outside in some parking lot, unprotected from the cold and the rain, they won’t survive. Some may choose to keep their poinsettia inside so you can plant it in the garden after the last frost. Others may happily grow their poinsettia as a houseplant. Only a select few may try to get their poinsettia to re-flower. Poinsettias need slightly acidic, well-drained soil. Plant in the full sun, next to a wall or fence to help protect during the cold months. In Clayton, a poinsettia planted outside will go dormant usually November through March. Temperatures need to stay above 50 degrees for the poinsettia to remain evergreen, and we all know that won’t happen in Clayton. Fertilize every two weeks with a high nitrogen fertilizer once the color starts to show. Beware when planting this euphorbia, like so many in this family, one small plant can grow so big. Expect an easy four to five feet tall and wide. Use as a backdrop against a fence. Poinsettia is a fine looking plant year round when kept in the home and treated like a
hours of complete uninterrupted darkness. Then remove the plant and expose to light for the next ten hours. This process of long night/short day treatment should be followed until Thanksgiving. This treatment should give you the best poinsettia plant ever. Once freed from darkness, treat as you would any freshly purchased poinsettia. If none of these poinsettia fates appeal to you, simply compost the plant or place in your green waste container and let some one else do it for you. Buy healthy plants. It’s too bad
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
houseplant. They love sunshine through a nearby window. When watering try not to use too much, or too little. Hydrate to keep plant moist, but never soggy. Remove water from the saucer, and never let your poinsettia have wet feet. On the other hand, do not let your poinsettia dry out. This will cause leaf drop. Once this begins you will have to cut the plant back five to six inches from the ground and start all over again. Poinsettias have an awful habit of growing leggy. When grown indoors, feed with a general houseplant food. A water-soluble formula used every six to eight weeks will do the trick. Poinsettia plants prefer to have a constant temperature in the home also. Keep away from drafty doors or heater registers. Extreme cold or hot can cause leaf drop. The natural blooming season of the poinsettia is during the summer, not December. Those of you who wish to make your poinsettia re-bloom, need to start in late September. Place your poinsettia in a dark place like a closet every day for 14
that all the discount and hardware stores saturated the poinsettia market. Not that many Nurseries carry the “Flower of the Holy Night” any more. Choose plants displayed indoors, with tight yellow centers. Pass by the one that leaves droop or are wilting. Those are doomed before you take them home. Poinsettia varieties are exciting and beautiful. Enjoy and experiment with one or many. See what you can do. Nicole Hackett is the GardenGirl at R & M Pool, Patio and Garden. Contact her at gardengirl94517@aol.com
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Persimmons, the fruit of Zeus A generous neighbor just gave me a flat of ripe persimmons from a beautiful tree that graces his front yard. They are plump, reddish-orange and heart-shaped— and almost squishy to the touch. Um-umm. They’ll be great in my early winter recipes! With names like “Fuyu” and “Hayicha,” you might not think the persimmon has North American roots. Diospyros (“fruit of god”) Virginian tree, found throughout the Eastern U.S., has a fruit which is astringent unless very ripe. The two common persimmons we see in local stores are grown in California although they originated in China. They are at their peak of flavor right about now. Small, squat Fuyus (formally, Fuyugaki) are crunchy and sweet, and best eaten like an apple. They go well with cheese and peanut butter, and in fruit salsas and chopped salads. The much larger Hayichas must be very ripe so their seedless pulp can be extracted (when still firm, they are quite bitter). The pulp is great in smoothies, sauces, breads, pancake batter and cookies—even
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pulp mixture. Add cream and remaining 3 Tbsp butter (melted). Bake 40-45 minutes.
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
beer! The Persimmon Festival in Mitchell, Indiana is nearly a week long event. Each year, awards are presented for the best persimmon pudding. The winning 2003 recipe follows: Persimmon Pudding 2 cups persimmon pulp 2 cups sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1 tsp baking soda 1½ cups buttermilk 1 cup flour 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon 1 cup heavy cream 4 Tbsp butter (1/2 stick) 1 tsp vanilla Preheat oven to 350°F. Add 1 Tbsp butter to 9 x 13 baking pan and let melt in oven; use a paper towel to grease the pan with melted butter. Mix sugar and pulp, add beaten eggs and beat well. Add soda to the buttermilk and stir until foaming stops. Add to pulp mixture. Sift dry ingredients together and add gradually to the
Swordfish, Tuna) In medium saucepan or skillet, preheat oil. Sauté vegetables until tender, add remaining ingredients except for fish and walnuts. Simmer until thickened. Spray or oil the fish and grill over medium heat to desired temperature (about 5 minutes per side). Add walnuts to sauce and serve over the grilled fish.
Creamy Persimmon Tart [Prepare a tart crust in a 10” tart pan, bake and cool] 16 oz cream cheese 3 Fuyu persimmons ½ cup orange marmalade ½ cup apricot preserves Using mixer, beat cream cheese with ¼ cup orange marmalade and ¼ cup apricot preserves until well blended and fluffy. Spoon over prepared tart crust. Wash and peel Fuyus. Slice in small wedges about ¼” thick. Starting in center of tart, lay out persimmon in concentric circles, slightly overlapping each slice. Melt remaining marmalade and preserves and cool slightly. While still warm and fluid, spoon over the fruit, using a spatula or pastry brush to completely coat and seal the fruit. Can be chilled, covered, for up to one day.
Rice Pilaf with Persimmons Sauté ¼ cup finely chopped onion, 1 Tbsp minced fresh ginger, and ¼ tsp nutmeg in 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add 1 cup white Basmati rice, 1 cup chicken broth and ¾ cup water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook, covered, until rice is tender (about 20 minutes). Fluff rice with fork and stir in 1 cup chopped Fuyu persimmon, ¼ cup chopped cilantro, 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds and salt and pepper to taste. Home brew: 1 gallon ripe persimmons, mashed with ½ c cornmeal. Add 5 gallons of water and 2 cups sugar. Let age (3 to 4 days) until the fruit rises to the top. Strain and fill bottles about 2/3s full. Enjoy this light, fruity, fizzy ice cold brew on a summer’s day. (It is also said that Confederate soldiers brewed “coffee” from persimmon seeds during the Civil War. I could find no “recipes” for this concoction.) A final bit of trivia regarding persimmon is that its wood, being related to ebony, is hard and dense. Fifty years ago, it was a favored material for golf club heads carefully hand-carved from a block of wood. Some of MacGregor’s most cherished heirloom woods fetch premium prices from collectors these days. Persimmon wood has also been used to handcraft pennywhistles and fifes, both sounding similar to flutes or piccolos. Wishing you, dear reader, a happy, healthy and well-cooked New Year!
Grilled Fish With Persimmon Sauce 1 Tbsp olive or canola oil 1 tsp minced garlic 1 small onion, chopped finely 1 small carrot, grated 1 stalk celery, chopped finely 1 Tbsp curry powder ½ cup persimmon pulp 2 Tbsp applesauce 2 Tbsp water ½ cup coconut milk ¼ tsp cayenne pepper 2 Tbsp cilantro, minced ¼ cup chopped walnuts 4, 4-oz fish fillets (Mahi Mahi,
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December 26, 2003
Services, from page 1 the mail?” Maybe, maybe not. How did we get here? And why is the city so dependent on license fees that are paid to the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles? Prior to 1935, every local government set its own vehicle tax rate and collected the money each year. As the number of cars increased, the process got more complicated. Tax rates differed from town to town and drivers shopped for the best rates, registering their vehicles in whatever town offered the best deal, maybe their own town, but often, not. In 1935, the state legislature mandated a uniform tax rate and became the tax collector for local governments. Sounded good in theory. But, taxes are political . . . and most drivers vote. The VLF was just too tempting to leave alone. Slashing fees bought easy votes, so down they went–from the two percent of vehicle value set in 1948, to 1.5 percent in 1999, to 1.3 percent in 2000, to 0.65 percent in 2001. “But,” cried the cities, “that’s our money.” Local government’s claim to the VLF revenue was constitutionally guaranteed by state voters in 1986 via Proposition 47. “Not to worry,” said the State, fat with surplus. “We’ll make up the difference,” promising to pay the cities’ their full two percent. This “promise” became known as the VLF “backfill.” The promise lasted about as long as the surplus did. By October, there was $3.9 million in unpaid “backfill” owed to the cities and counties. Gray Davis was already recalled and had nothing to lose, so he cut the cuts and
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com restored the VLF to its full two percent. Things were looking promising for Clayton. But wait, there’s more. In November, the new governor restored the cuts and cut the VLF back to 0.65 percent, telling the legislature to find enough money for the “backfill” by cutting “other programs and services.” To comply, the legislature must take a little money out of the “other services” cookie jar and put it in the Clayton “general fund” cookie jar. The problem is, at the end of the year, both jars are empty and Clayton is still $488,227 behind in unfunded VLF “backfill.” So, what, exactly, will this $488,277 shortfall cost the city? According to Napper, the city will have to lay off employees and cut services. $488,277 pays for five of the city’s eleven police officers; OR, it pays for more than five of the eight City Hall employ-
ees; OR, it pays for all five of the city’s maintenance workers–100 percent of the Public Works Department. Right now, says Napper, the situation is unstable. There are more questions than answers. So, while the City waits to find out who wins and loses in the latest round of Liar’s Dice, support for the statewide initiative grows. Supporters plan to place the initiative on the ballot in November 2004 as the “Local Taxpayers and Public Safety Protection Act.” The measure requires voter approval before the Legislature can reduce or divert local government revenues, and requires the state to reimburse local governments for state mandated programs. “I’ve been a city manager for 20 years and I have never seen the depths of frustration and fear that this situation has caused,” says Napper.
Page 11
Letters to the Editor Dear Editor: Thank you so much for the wonderful article (in the Nov. 28 issue) on the HMT Rohna. I sent copies all over the country and had so many terrific replies. There have been many stories printed in cities throughout the country, and (everyone) thought this story rated at the very top. They all thought it was done
very, very professional and was most thorough. Thank you so much. Bill and Maddie Caskey
in your competitors. We truly enjoy receiving and reading it. Thank you for your efforts, and I’m sure that includes a collective vision Dear Editor: and effort by the entire staff. You’re to be congratulatSincerely, ed for making the Pioneer a Larry Post, M.D. much improved paper. It’s Clayton larger, with more news and feature articles, and it’s not We’re blushing. Thank full of the political spin seen you. Ed.
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T H A N K
for planting our unusual perennials and shrubs. for buying our fine outdoor patio furniture, all made in the U.S.A. for enjoying our fountains, containers, urns and statuary. for utilizing our outside service and repair department for your pool and spa. for supporting our unique gift and interior home accents store.
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Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
December 26, 2003
O'Hara's Martial Arts Academy Grand Opening
"Both of my sons attend O'Hara's Martial Arts Academy. Cameron, 9 has been taking classes for two years, and Gaby, 6, for one year. As an instructor, Tim, Jr. has a natural ability to blend both fun and discipline in all of his classes. The boys look forward to each class, learning new moves and always enjoy being with the other kids."
Dan Bacigalupo Cla yt on Pictured left, Cameron Bacigalupo and instructor, Tim O’Hara
“Since our 14-year old daughter has been studying martial arts under the direction of Tim O'Hara Jr., we have noticed a significant improvement in her self esteem and confidence,. We would recommend O'Hara's martial arts academy to any parent for their child.”
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Page 13
‘Tis the Season for Curmudgeons I made an interesting discovery recently. I discovered that I have not one but three wives. There’s Lisa, the one with whom I recall exchanging vows and rings. The others? Well, for the purposes of this column we’ll just call them Jill and Tamara. As
JOE ROMANO
SO, ANYWAY wives will do on occasion, Jill and Tamara were nagging me about writing a column with a holiday “theme.” Having already been chastised on more than one occasion for not having already WRITTEN a seasonal column, for the sake of marital harmony and more to the point, to get them off my back, here it is. It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Not. Were you hoping for a feel good column? Move along then, nothing to see here. Yes that’s right, I’m feeling just a wee bit Scrooge-ish. I think it began around November 13 when my car radio suddenly began to play Christmas carols. I kid you not, November 13th. I have always felt the week of Thanksgiving a might too early for the Christmas blitz, but November 13? Please. In the span of one more generation, our world will be “All Christmas—All the time.” Feliz Navidad will be in 24 hour rotation on your radio. There will be 365 days of “Huge Savings Spectacular” sale commercials. The late Frank Sinatra will be paired with everyone from Pink
to Prince for a Christmas duet, and every two bit actor that ever made a guest appearance on The Love Boat will have his very own “Down Home Country Christmas” special on TV. Humbug. For its simplicity, Thanksgiving is definitely my favorite holiday. Eating, drinking and watching TV. If ever there were a GUY’S holiday, it’s Thanksgiving. No decorating, nothing to wrap and NO SHOPPING, save for food and beer. When was the last time anyone agonized over finding that “perfect” bag of Idaho russets for the mashed potatoes? Never happens. At the time of this writing we are exactly one week away from Christmas. I have yet to step foot inside of a store. We still have not sent out our Christmas cards. In fact, while I’m writing this column I really SHOULD be addressing Christmas card envelopes. See how it is? Two wives nagging me about writing a column and a third on me to address Christmas cards. At Thanksgiving no one nags me to take seconds on stuffing or to “have another beer, for Pete’s sake.” I HAVE, however, managed
P UT
to string Christmas lights on the house. We decided this year to leave the icicle lights (in the knots they always manage to tie themselves in between hangings) up in the rafters. We bought a very simple strand of colored lights and they were up in 15 minutes. Don’t get me wrong, the icicle lights are very pretty but the cursing that ensues during the two plus hours it takes to hang them somehow detracts from their beauty. The Christmas tree is up as well. Forty bucks! Albertson’s, baby. OK, the needles are
YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD
already littering our family room floor but, what of it? They way I figure it, there’s less to burn should the parched scrub go up like a Roman candle. Sure, a naked tree is kind of unbecoming, but we all remember Charlie Brown—a few ornaments and a little love. That’s all any of us really needs. I know that’s all I need. Lord knows I don’t need any more STUFF. I’ve got too much STUFF already. Please, no more STUFF. Take me off your STUFF list. I want a STUFF-free Christmas. Geez, what’s wrong with me
anyway? There’s no cause for the bile spew. My apologies to my wives and the rest of you. Three crazy spirits and a guy wrapped in chains just reminded me that Christmas is a time to think about peace on earth and good will toward our fellow man. Cancel the gripe fest! Let the bells ring from on high, let the children dance and sing, and
let us link hands across this great world of ours and raise our voices in song. Everyone know the words to Feliz Navidad? Joe Romano is a Clayton resident, a family man and the Pioneer’s “all around funny guy.” E-mail him at jromano02@yahoo.com
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Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Be a peacemaker ‘Tis the season! Each year the holiday season brings me an opportunity to ‘walk my talk’ as
a coach, applying those life skills I guide my clients with to my own life. It’s time to reflect
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again on what matters most, reassessing what family, friends and community means to me personally. I hope you get together with those you love, and use this time for reflection, nurturing, renewal and commitments to become more of the person you want to be. Our world needs your authenticity— so please, and allow it to shine brightly today, tomorrow and forever. Let there be peace on earth. Let it begin with me. We may feel helpless as peacemakers in the current world turmoil. But we can be
peacemakers in our own lives, organizations and communities. It begins with all of us, on an individual level. Whether we are leading entire organizations or just families, we can be peacemakers by setting an example and leading others to find peaceable solutions. Conflict will always exist in our organizations and in our world. Depending on how we approach it, it can create brilliant new ideas or it can leave a path of destruction. Through word and action, we lead others into peace or into war. Ask yourself, “Am I contributing to peace or setting the slate for a battleground? Am I demonstrating an example in my organization by participating in the peacemaking process, or am I condoning an ongoing tribal
December 26, 2003
DORY WILLER
CHEERLEADER
FOR
YOUR SOUL war over territories and escalating emotions?” If you want to help create a better world, start where you are today. Be a peacemaker in your life by following this wisdom given to me by a cherished mentor: Probe for a deeper understanding. Ensure an environ-
ment of respect. Appreciate resistance. Create opportunities for open dialogue. Embrace diversity and diverse perspectives. Move away from blame, toward solutions. Act early before conflict accelerates. Keep your emotions in check. Establish rapport and common ground. Resolve conflict with win-win solutions. I wish you well on the journey to living and designing a life full of purpose and passion. May you have the spirit of peace, the gladness of hope, and the heart of love in your holidays! Dory Willer is a certified personal life coach, She was named the 2003 International Coach of the Year. www.BeaconQuest.com (925) 473-4899
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Readers Forum: Post office should recycle This letter was sent to Gary Napper, City Manager of Clayton, with a copy to the Pioneer. Dear Mr. Napper I was in the process of sorting out some magazines for recycling and came across an article
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in the Fall 2003 Clayton News newsletter on the progress made in increasing recycling in Clayton. As someone who has worked with the waste disposal industry for over two decades, I have been impressed by how our community has been able to
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From Laura Hoffmeister, Assistant to the City Manager I spoke to PHBD (Pleasant Hill Bayshore Disposal) about this and neither of us were aware that the post office was not recycling. The post office apparently has a waste paper bin for customers, but the materials are placed in the trash container in the evening. PHBD will be contacting the post office to establish a recycling program for customers and staff. We appreciate Mr. Kaminski’s suggestion that we try to find new opportunities to improve our overall recycling efforts.
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approach the fifty percent reduction in landfill waste mandated by the State of California, since this goal, while admirable, was nonetheless arbitrary. As it is important for our city to meet the state’s goal, I have a suggestion that may help considerably. When I go to the Clayton Post Office to pick up my post office box mail, I always see the waste bins overflowing with massive amounts of junk mail, store circulars and advertising flyers. I asked the postmaster if this waste paper is recycled, and he told me that it isn’t. Based on this, I always take my mail home and sort out the recyclables, but I know many other post office box customers are not doing this. Why can’t the post office and the City of Clayton implement a recycling program? If there were recycling bins available, I believe most people would use them. This should not only help our city meet its goal, but would be a great reminder for people to
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December 26, 2003
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
It’s time to say
thank you Happy New Year
from all of us at the Clayton Pioneer and a great, big thank you! We hope you’ve enjoyed us as much as we’ve enjoyed you!
To all of our advertisers Abbey Carpet Acme Auto Repair ADM Staffing Aim Mail Center AJ Landscaping Aircloud High Speed Internet Alice's Montessori Alise Interiors Linda Garrido, Allstate Insurance Richard Alves, D.D.S. Apronstrings Pet Sitting Hamid Asemi. State Farm Insurance Beacon Quest Coaching Bellini Juvenile Furniture Best Blinds Blimpie Bonanza Books Clayton Business and Community Assoc. Cegielski Jewelers Tammy Cerruti Cindy's Curtains Clarion Mortgage Clayton Children's Center Clayton Community Church Clayton Community School Clayton Fitness and Tanning Center Clayton Flowers Clayton Hair Works Clayton Livery Clayton Mind and Body Connections Clayton Stoves and Saddlery
Clayton Clayton Clayton Clayton Clayton Clayton Clayton
Valley Valley Valley Valley Valley Valley Valley
Bowl High School Little League Locksmith Preschool Pumpkin Farm Woman's Club
Stephanie Lopez and Helen Rahimzadeh, Coldwell Banker Real Estate
Coldstone Creamery Computers USA ComUnity Lending Concord Feed and Fuel Concord United Methodist Church Consider It Done Consignment Treasurers Contra Costa County Fair Contra Costa Home and Garden Show Contra Costa Musical Theatre Inc. Cottontales Countrywide Home Loans Creative Memories Cross Creek CTA Crossroads Theatre Curves Joe Dajani, Prudential California Realty Dana Hills Swim Club Tony Delumen Dent-Tec Diablo Foods Diablo Funding Group
Diablo Valley Soccer Club Diablo View Cleaning Dolan's Lumber Josiah Doman Window Washing Donna's Gifts Dubnoff Wedding Photography Edge Talent Bonnie Mullin, Executive Brokers Patty Flannery, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Fox and the Fiddle Galleria Park Hotel Graham Family Photo Cynthia Gregory Groceries on the Go Lori Hagge and Alice Ponti, Century 21 Hair's The Place Hair Systems Carolyn Hartnell Hennis Marina Mavericks Holy Cross Lutheran Church Julie Rogers and Greg Farrand, HomeEquity Illuminations IMC Joanna's Designs Jory's Flowers Juli's Pet Sitting Service Pete Laurence, Better Homes Realty Tom Legault, Century 21, Kropa Realty Lela's Hair Salon Linguini's
Lynne French, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Mark's Concrete Christina Mason, D.D.S., Brite Smile Deb Masselli Mazzei Pontiac-Cadillac Mike's Auto Body Thomas Miller, CPA Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital Dr. Steven Moon The Magic of Peter Morrison Kim Morucci, Century 21 Kropa Realty Murals and More Network Service Center Novosol Partners Nu Image Oakhurst Country Club Ouimet Funeral Chapel Paul Rodgers General Contractor Patrick Penner, Paramount Financial Petar Guest Home, Inc. Precision Dents ProHome Systems ProTech Heating and Air Conditioning Stan Sklenar, Prudential Investments R & M Pool, Patio and Garden Regina's Pet Grooming Rising Moon Marketing Robin's Nest Robert Claire Photography Schaefer's Painting Seasonal Reflections
Ed Shockley, Financial Network Shop N Go Silvester Living Trusts Skipolini's Pizza Smith Family Farm Solar Glazing St. Demetrio's Church Straight Line Imports The Cottage The Looking Glass The Maids The Marble Shop The Massage Company The Sweet Corporation Toys, Games and More Tulips in Winter Josie Van Fleet-Bronson, Remax Real Estate Carol Van Vaerenberg, Century 21 Doug Van Wyck, State Farm Insurance Village Market Geroge Vujnovich, Better Homes Realty Bill and Pam Walcutt, Prudential Realty Karen Walsh, First Horizon Home Loans Cathy Weil West One Financial Wiggins Piano Tuning Marc Williams Insurance Winter Chevrolet Ygnacio Valley Republican Women
. . .and to all of our talented writers Roberta Berry, RN, Women’s Health Julie Bond, Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital, Paws and Claws Janet Bowman Johnson, Astro Talk Coleen Brogan, Women’s Health Will Claney, Computers USA, Tech Talk Emily Cremisio, Diablo View Middle School, Student Reporter Misha Doig, Family Corner Lynne French, Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Real Estate Naomi Gary, Diamond Terrace, Senior Moments Dave Gray, Gray on Golf Nicole Hackett, R & M Pool, Patio and Garden, Garden Girl
Jim Hudak, Music Notes Linda Johnson, Diamond Terrace, Senior Moments Kevin Parker, Hiker’s Haven Larry Peterson, ADM Staffing, Employment Don Richardson, Classic Film Guy Joe Romano, So, Anyway Marybeth Rymer, D.V.M., Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital, Paws and Claws Stan Sklenar, Prudential Investments, Finance and Investments Dory Willer, Beacon Quest Coaching, Cheerleader For Your Soul Dan Wilson, Interquest Communications/Aircloud, Tech Talk Linda Wyner, Food For Thought
. . .and to our loyal readers MAKE A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION Y OU CAN KEEP!
Support our advertisers They make the Pioneer possible.
Tamara Steiner Editor and Publisher
Bob Steiner, Publisher
Jill Bedecarre Assistant Editor Display Advertising
Camera shy Jay Bedecarre, Sports Editor
Rafi Hashemi Graphic Artist
Joann Ricks, Copy Editor
Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
December 26, 2003
Happy New Year Thanks to all our sponsors for making our Grand Opening a success! Collectors Corner Art Gallery Ed's Mudville Grill Residential Pacific Mortgage La Veranda CafĂŠ The Fox and the Fiddle Coldwell Banker Mortgage
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Happy New Year