Presidents’ Day Essay Contest Winners see page A6
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
FEBRUARY 24, 2006
925.672.0500
New book offers visual history of Clayton BEV BRITTON Clayton Pioneer
DAVE SHUEY
MAYOR’S CORNER From big meetings to small town sports Clayton is set to host the Contra Costa County Mayor’s Conference on March 2. Officials from the 19 cities in the county get together each month to discuss items of mutual interest. Attended by mayors, council members, city managers, supervisors and state representatives, these meetings are essential to governance in today’s interrelated world. I won’t lie to you, there is a fair amount of hot air generated at these meetings, but a lot of good also occurs. It is at these and other county/state meetings that members of the Clayton City Council are able to network and put forth our positions, thoughts and wishes. Clayton actually carries more clout than its size would warrant, thanks to the tireless efforts of past and current council members. There is actually a “Clayton Model” of development that sets forth how developing cities can lessen the impact of their development on neighboring cities. We hope that this model is carried out to help us and other cities deal with traffic and other issues related to major development occurring in East County. So on March 2, be kind to all the politicians and city officials who are coming to this conference. Because I just don’t know if I can trust all of you, I have instructed the chief of police to suspend all hunting permits on that day so don’t even try. Enough politics, lets talk baseball and youth sports. We have more than 200 kids participating in YMCA basketball, and CYO has even more.
See Mayor, page A8
What’s inside SECTION A Around Town . . . . . . . . . .A2 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . .A3 Upcoming Events . . . . . . .A4 Classifieds and Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . .A5 Essay Contest Winners . . .A6 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .A7 Letters to the Editor . . . . .A8 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . .A9 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A9 CVHS Reporter and School News . . . . . . . . . . .A10 Food for Thought . . . . . .A11 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . .A11 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . .A12 At the Movies . . . . . . . . . .A13
Many Clayton residents move here for the small town atmosphere. But the population explosion of the last four decades has left few traces of the Old West Clayton. A new picture book from the Clayton Historical Society provides a look back at the town’s rustic past. “Images of America – Clayton,” by Arcadia Publishing, spans the years 1857 to 1957. It covers the town of Clayton, the Clayton Valley, Morgan Territory and Marsh Creek. The 128-page book aims to put the reader in the shoes of an early inhabitant through photographs with brief captions. “We are fortunate that many members of old-time Clayton families loaned us pictures for the book,” says Historical Society president Janet Easton. “A bonus was looking through other people’s photograph albums and seeing pictures of my ancestors that I had never seen before.” Easton’s relative, Capt. Russelmann, moved to the area in the 1870s with his family. They lived on a ranch here while he was out at sea. Tony Galvin, Mary Viera Delamater and Carmen Frank are among the other locals who contributed photos. Delamater’s grandparents moved here from Portugal and settled in the Marsh Creek area. Her mother Lucy, who lived to the age of 99 ½, grew up on the family ranch. One of the photos Delamater offered to Easton shows the butchering of a pig, which was to be divided among the extended family. “All the relatives lived around here, too,” says Delamater. George Frank’s family also has lived in Clayton since the 1800s. Carmen Frank has lived on the family property since she and George married in 1937.
Photo courtesy of Clayton Historical Society
The bar inside the Rhine Hotel on Main Street where the Clayton Club now stands was a popular gathering spot around 1900 when this photo was taken. “My husband’s family members were pioneers in this area,” she notes. Easton worked on the book for eight months with Dick Ellis, past Historical Society president and a former Clayton Valley High School teacher, and Mary Spryer, curator of the Clayton Museum. The book, which will be released in March, is part of Arcadia’s “Images of America” series. Antioch and Bay Point have published similar books, and a Concord book is in the works. Clayton’s book follows
town of Clayton had a 50-50 chance of being named Rhinesville. Early surveyors called the Clayton area Deadfall, perhaps in reference to the large number of fallen trees in the area. The book illustrates the changes that have taken place since the early days. “There is a cool aerial picture that was taken in the ’50s that shows Clayton Road with mostly orchards on both sides on the street,” says Easton. Other photos trace the
See Book, page A8
Recovery going well for assault victim TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
CVHS senior, Danny Faina, is home recovering from multiple skull fractures sustained when he was attacked following the CVHS/De La Salle basketball game on February 3.
Faina, 18, was on the Alberta Way side of the Albertson’s parking lot when he crossed paths with Concord High junior Rafael Brasil, 17, and another 17 year old from De La Salle High School. According to Faina, he recalls calling his girlfriend on his cell phone as he passed his
SECTION B Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . . . .B1 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B2 Crossword Puzzle Solution.B4 Community Calendar . . . . .B6 Paws and Claws . . . . . . . . .B7 Church News . . . . . . . . . . .B8 Dining Around . . . . . . . . . .B9 Tax Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B9 Tea for You . . . . . . . . . . . .B10
Arcadia’s format, with sections on areas such as the downtown and agriculture. “When we were doing the book, we got copies of books that other people had done to see how they lined up their chapters,” says Easton. “One thing we included that others didn’t is ‘Characters and Oddities.’ We have a picture of the Stranahan family all standing on the roof of their house.” Joel Clayton mapped out the town in 1857. He won the naming rights after winning a coin toss with Charles Rhine, a Nortonville entrepreneur. The
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
Danny Faina, left, at home with his parents Sue and Keith Faina.
two attackers in the parking lot. The three made eye contact but did not exchange any words. According to witnesses, after they passed, Brasil turned and struck Faina from behind with a skateboard, fracturing his skull above the left eye socket in three places and bruising his jaw. Faina was knocked unconscious and fell to the pavement immediately. One of the witnesses used Faina’s cell phone to call 9-1-1. Faina’s mother, Sue Faina, is puzzled and angry at the attack. “Danny is not a violent person,” she said. “He wouldn’t hurt a flea.” She attributes the violence to over-exhuberant fans. There had reportedly been a post game scuffle in the school parking lot a few minutes before and Faina was wearing his CVHS tshirt – a fact that his mother thinks might have triggered the attack. Brasil has been charged as an adult with two counts of assault and one count of battery and is
being held at the Juvenile Detention Center in Martinez on $100,000 bail. If convicted, he could serve up to seven years in state prison. The Faina family has been hard hit with medical bills in recent times. Keith Faina suffered a heart attack two years ago while he was between jobs and uninsured. They are still paying on those bills. The medical insurance they carried on Danny was a bare bones policy, said Sue Faina, paying only 60 percent of covered expenses. “I can’t even imagine how much these bills will be. If they are anywhere near what my husband’s were, I don’t know how we’ll do it,” she said. Family friend, Carolyn Hartnell, opened an account this week at Washington Mutual where friends and community members can make contributions to help defray the family’s medical bills. For more information, call Carolyn Hartnell, 672-4146.
The book’s cover photo is of the outside of the Rhine Hotel.
CDF wins grant for thermal imaging camera TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
The CDF Sunshine fire station on Marsh Creek Road has added a new thermal imaging camera to their arsenal of fire fighting weapons, thanks to a grant from Fireman’s Fund Insurance. The camera can see in the dark and through smoke and will pinpoint any heat source, enabling firefighters to locate and rescue victims trapped in a smoke filled room or, in the case of a car crash, a victim thrown into the bushes. In an area like the more remote parts
See CDF, page A4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
display at mu n o s s a eu i l le
Guests enthusiastically perused an advance copy of the Clayton Historical Society’s “Images of America – Clayton.” The picture book begins in 1857, when Joel Clayton laid out the town, and ends 100 years later, in 1957. More than 40 orders were taken for the book, which will be released March 2. Tea and coffee were served by museum docents Peggy Arundell, Sheila Driscoll, Louise Wall, Frances Kendall, Sue Kelson and JoAnn Caspar. Many historical society members baked cookies for the event. “I’m pleased that the public’s
tea
Local grower Edith Mazzei and other members of the Northern California Camellia Society filled the Clayton Museum with camellias for the 29th annual Silver Camellia Tea on Feb. 12. Just about every surface held a camellia, with the “Clayton Classic” camellia featured on
the piano. The tea honors descendants of pioneering Clayton families. Those in attendance included members of the Frank, Russelmann, Stockfleth, Atchinson, Clayton, Correa, Keller, Scammon, Murchio, and Matheson families. Many of the descendants are related to each other.
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Around Town
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interest in the Camellia Tea has continued for so many years,” says Janet Easton, president of the Clayton Historical Society. “It’s a once a year opportunity to renew old acquaintances and make new friends.” The museum’s current display of teapots was created in conjunction with the Camellia Tea. “We are grateful that society member and Clayton resident
Kathleen Bailey had over 50 teapots to loan for this timely exhibit,” notes museum curator Mary Spryer. The public can view the “Tea For Two” display until Mother’s Day. The Clayton Historical Society Museum is at 6101 Main St. It is open 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays. For more information, visit www.claytonhs.com.
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4 1. Willmetta Frank Mann from Concord and Charmetta Mann from Clayton. 2. Will and Marilyn Atchinson from Alamo, also related to the Rhine family. 3. Marie Frank Larson from San Francisco and Martin Easton from Clayton. 4. Charles Calhan, Joel Clayton’s Great Grandson and his wife Kathleen came from Sunnyvale. 5. Juliana and Canevascini From Clayton (Elise is a volunteer greeter at the museum). 6. Volunteer and Museum Docent, Frances Kendall, pours tea. 7. Society Vice President Barbara Allen and Society President Janet Easton-holding camellia named “Clayton Classic.” 8. Paul Larson (Concord), Sheila Driscoll (Clayton), Boots Larson (Concord), and Don Kendall (Concord). Story by Janet Easton Photos by Mary Spryer
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Clayton $694,980 Oakhurst prize! – Single-story 3 bedroom, 2 bath on over ¼ acre situated privately on a cul-de-sac. Spacious, open great room has vaulted ceilings and fireplace and formal dining. 3/4” hardwood floors throughout. Bright, large eat-in kitchen with a bay window. Patio looks onto a lush backyard with flourishing landscaping.
Clayton $999,980 Morgan Territory - Serene 4 bedroom, 3 bath home on 1.1 acres with views of Mt. Diablo. Generous rooms with windows that bring the scenery in! Large kitchen and a bonus room that can be used as an in-law unit. Family room has stone fireplace and wet bar. Outside find a deck, a natural stream, and a studio/workshop.
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Concord $999,980 Custom Dana Hills - This upscale 4 bedroom, 3 bath on the Concord/Clayton border is a customized, majestic home lit by the sunset! Enjoy Red Oak floors and fabulous rooms with dual-pane windows to accentuate the views. Extras include 3-car garage, storage, and a beautifully landscaped lot with tiered gardens and lighting.
Clayton $759,980 Windmill Canyon Beauty - Enjoy the views of the surrounding hills in this 3 bedroom 2.5 bath ready for living! High ceilings bring in light along with the gourmet kitchen's garden window and the formal dining's bay window. Living room with fireplace and wet bar, fresh paint and professional landscaping.
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February 24, 2006
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Eagle Scout projects nets new old fence for museum
Page A3
Around Town
Obituary
Annie Rose Carlos
Smiles at Diamond Terrace
Kids from Clayton Children’s Center’s after school program went on a field trip to Diamond Terrace on February 15.
Aaron Blatter, member of Boy Scout Troop 494, was honored by the Clayton City Council at the Feb. 7 meeting for his contribution to the Clayton Museum. Aaron, 14, needed an Eagle Scout project. The museum needed a fence. It was a match made in heaven...or at least in Clayton. A few months ago, Aaron’s mother and brother were on a museum tour with the Tiger Cubs when Museum Curator Mary Spryer mentioned that she really wished there were a fence across the back of the property. It didn’t take long for the message to get home to Aaron who began researching period fencing right away. The picket fence is typical of the yard fences around the turn of the century.
The kindergarten, first and second graders entertained the residents with songs and jokes to the joy of all in the audience.
Aug. 29, 1899 – Jan. 31, 2006
Annie Rose Carlos died to Oakdale in 1968. Jan. 31 in Apache Junction, When asked what the Arizona. Annie was known biggest change was during her for her beautiful white hair, lifetime, Annie said that it was strong will, her diminutive when the “car ferry” started size and a keen sense of operating between Oakland humor. and San Francisco. She was The Rose driving one family moved to of the first Clayton in 1902 cars on the from Pleasanton ferry. when their She didn’t daughter, Annie, trust autowas 3 years old. matic transThey farmed missions, and grain and grew her last car walnuts and was a 1964 almonds on 300 Plymouth acres between four-speed Clayton Road Fury with the and Pine pedals modiHollow Road in fied to the area now accommoknown as date her small Clayton Valley size. Annie Highlands. drove this ANNIE ROSE CARLOS After Annie 330-horsemarried Joe p o w e r Carlos, they built their home “machine” until she was 89. on the opposite side of Pine Annie’s final trip to Hollow Road on the 20 acres Clayton from Apache that is now Seven Oaks. Junction was in a horse trailer She is survived by a son, driven by her son. Francis Francis Carlos, of Apache said that he and his mother Junction. A daughter, had discussed this before her Dolores, died in 1938 at the death and that she was fine age of 10. with the idea. Annie Rose Carlos and her Because during her life mother, Minnie Rose, donat- Annie held the belief that ed property to the “bigger is better,” Francis Archdiocese of San chose the four-horse trailer Francisco on the condition rather than the two-horse that a Catholic Church be trailer for the trip. built. That property is now Annie’s life was celebrated St. Bonaventure Church, at St. Bonaventure Church on which was established in Feb. 8. She was buried at St. 1957. Annie was very Stephen’s Cemetery with her involved in the church until husband, parents and other she, Joe and Francis moved family members.
After their performance, the children presented each audience member with a hand-made Valentine card and a carnation.
A brand new Pioneer Clayton Pioneer publishers, Tamara and Bob Steiner, have a new granddaughter. Jennifer Rhiann, 6 ½ lbs and 19 inches tall, made her grand entrance on February 10. The family’s newest diva joins her sister, Tamara Lucia who was four on February 22, at the family home in Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico where her dad is an English teacher. Jenny’s parents are Don Richardson and Silvia Soto Richardson.
What’s happening Around Town?
Know someone that’s getting engaged? Married? Graduating? Do you have new neighbors you’d like to introduce? Did you vacation somewhere interesting or celebrate an anniversary recently? Send your news items to tamara@claytonpioneer.com or go online to www.claytonpioneer.com.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
Hansen-Smith appointed Senior Librarian CDF, from page A1 Karen Hansen-Smith has been appointed permanent Senior Branch Librarian for The Clayton Community Library where she has been the acting Branch Librarian since 2004. Hansen-Smith began working for the County library system in 1990 when she moved to the United States from Denmark. She served in both the San Ramon and Pleasant Hill libraries as a reference librarian, trainer and volunteer coordinator before coming to Clayton. The Clayton Community Library relies heavily on volunteers and Karen sees recruiting new volunteers as her biggest challenge. Many of the current library volunteers have been working there for many years, some since it first opened. As
LIBRARIAN KAREN HANSEN-SMITH
the veteran volunteers retire, the library will need to recruit and train new volunteers.
Upcoming Events Annual arts celebration March 4-5 Come celebrate the arts at the Creekside Arts Celebration at the Community Library on Saturday and Sunday, March 4-5, with entertainment and refreshments
kicking off the weekend on Friday evening, March 3. Start in the foyer where the demonstrations and exhibits begin; wend your way through
Local artist George Rammell will exhibit his “Music Series” paintings at the “Creekside Arts Celebration” March 4 and 5.
The library has some excellent children’s programs and Hansen-Smith plans to increase the stacks checking out dozens of arts and crafts displays. Visit the courtyard for music and more art. Local artist George Rammell will exhibit his “Music Series” paintings. These works portray music on canvas utilizing variations in color, texture and composition to communicate the emotions one feels while listening to music. Clayton musician and composer and Pioneer writer, Jim Hudak, will play selections from his newly released CD, “Bridging Textures,” recorded with Windham Hill legend, Will Ackerman. Other local artists on hand with exhibits or demonstrations include: Loom weaver, Linda Van Heertum with an exhibit of hand woven textiles Photographer Ted Arden with an exhibit of photographic painting and nature photos Clay artist, Lois Andreotti Photographers Teresa and Keith
the teen and adult programs in the coming year. According to Hansen-Smith, the Clayton library is a favorite of temporary library workers. They love the staff, volunteers and community who use the library. Hansen-Smith sees the support from staff and volunteers, the library foundation and the Clayton community as the library’s greatest asset. “The library has become a wonderful resource for the community and a great gathering place,” she says. Hansen-Smith graduated from the Danish Library School in Copenhagen in 1975. She lives in Concord, right near the Clayton border, with her 13year-old son.
Peters with a display of nature and scenic photos Artisan Wilma Stone will exhibit her crystal and bead jewelry. Aiko Gray, a Japanese fiber artist, who has had her work on display in museums, will be exhibiting her tapestries along with other Guatemalan crafts. Proceeds from the sales of her works will go towards mudslide relief efforts from the devastating mudslide that covered a town of 2,000 last fall in Guatamala. Members of the local woodworking club, Diablo Woodworkers, will exhibit members’ work. This is the third year that the Clayton Community Library Foundation has gathered local artists, artisans and musicians for a weekend of color, demonstrations, music and dance. For more information on the Creekside Arts Celebration, call Arlene Kikkawa-Nielsen at 6739777 or email akikkawa@cclib.org.
of Morgan Territory where the response time for a back up engine is longer, “the camera could mean life or death for someone in a structure fire,” said CDF Engineer Eric Gomberg. In a fire, smoke is the greatest enemy and can reduce visibility in a room to zero. In a dark room filled with smoke, firefighters can use a thermal imager to find a person who is unconscious from smoke inhalation or a child who is hiding under a bed or inside a closet. The thermal imager is invaluable during the “overhaul” – the time after the major blaze is put out when firefighters look for hidden hot spots that could flare up again. By pinpointing potential trouble spots, firefighters can act fast and often minimize additional damage caused by tearing out more walls and flooring than necessary. The day before the Sunshine Station received the camera, a brand new home in the Deer Valley area was severely damaged by fire. “We could have really used the camera on that fire,” said Gomberg. “We ended up
The camera shows the heat patterns of a pot of stew on the stove. The color ranges from red to near white where it is hottest at the flame.
having to rip out a lot more sheetrock than we would have had to if we’d had the camera.” How does the camera “see” through smoke or in the dark? All objects have a certain temperature and emit waves of energy called infrared radiation. Hot objects emit more energy than cold objects. A thermal
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
In a training exercise, CDF firefighters use the thermal imaging camera to scan the smoke filled room before entering.
imager translates these energy waves into a viewable image, which shows a “heat picture” of a scene. It was nearly lunchtime at the Sunshine station and a pot of stew was heating on the stove emitting infrared rays of varying intensity. Gomberg set the camera on a table a few feet from the stew pot. On the screen of the thermal imager, the hot sides of the pot show red and the flame under it is nearly white at the hottest spot. The camera was one of three purchased with a $24,000 grant to East Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ECCFPD) which contracts with CDF (California Division of Forestry) for fire protection services for the Marsh Creek/Morgan Territory area. ECCFPD had already purchased one camera and with the three purchased with the grant, the District now has a camera in all four stations in the District—Sunshine, Brentwood, Byron and Discovery Bay—and assuring that “there will always be at least one camera available on initial attack,” Gomberg said.
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February 24, 2006
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Classified HELP WANTED Make a Difference in the lives of the elderly. Support them with companion help at home. Flex Hrs/PT/FT/Live-In. All shifts available. Caring Solutions 935-9506. Artists – focus on creating and let us sell your work. Craft and art website needs immediate supply of quality hand-made leatherwork, woodwork, seasonal crafts, artwork, jewelry, etc. E-mail oneofakindcrafts@comcast.net with contact information. Receptionist/Chiropractic Assistant, Part Time 9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Dr. Moon’s Concord office. No Experience needed. Call 925-216-8450. Receptionist - St. Bonaventure Catholic Church – 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Hours are Fridays 5 - 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., and as occasional backup to Monday through Thursday receptionists. Must be 18 years old or older, bilingual (English/Spanish), basic knowledge Microsoft Office; and operate multi-line telephone system. Pleasant church work environment. Salary is $8/hour. Call Sol Cuenco, 925-672-5800. Childcare - Seeking responsible young woman to care for our 18month-old daughter for date nights and on weekends on an as needed basis. Qualified candidates must have experience with toddlers, flexible schedule and excellent references. Salary is commensurate with experience. Call 524-0775.
handle detailed work with labeling and marking books. Hours are Wed. 1 – 5 p.m. Book Mender (min.age 13 years) to handle detailed work mending worn books. Hours can be chosen between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Thurs. Shelf Reader - (min.age 13 years) to read the library shelves in order to ensure the correct placement of books...must be familiar with the Dewey decimal system. Tutor (min.age 13 years) to tutor one-onone or give homework help at the library to local students in our community. You choose the age range, subjects, remedial help or light homework help, and the days/times. Call Arlene at 673-9777, e-mail akikkawa@ccc.lib.org.
tion and pricing. 925-673-1746 (leave message) gardengirl94517@yahoo.com
VACATION RENTAL Cabin in Blue Lake Springs (Arnold, CA). Sleeps 6, fully remodeled, quiet, use of recreation facilities. $150/night, $950/week. Call Kevin Parker @ (925) 3839430 or www.vrconnection.com/parkerpaw
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Shelver - (min. age 13 years) to shelve and sensitize books in the library. Will train, day/time is Tues.10 a.m. -2 p.m. or 2 – 6 p.m. and Sat.10 a.m. –1 p.m. Book Processor - (min.age 13 years) to
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 TAMARA
AND
R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers
TAMARA S TEINER , Editor J ILL B EDECARRÉ , Assistant Editor and Display Advertising P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Assoc.
SERVICES Child Day Care-I am a credentialed teacher running a small in home preschool along with an assistant. I’m conveniently located on the Concord/Clayton border. If your looking for full time child care for your preschool aged child, see my website for details at www.hoppilyeverafter.com and give me a call at 914-1014 to schedule a time to meet. Perennial Garden Design by Nicole Hackett AKA The Garden Girl. Personal consultations regarding plant choices, placement, identification, fertilizing and maintenance. Spring is just around the corner. Call or email for informa-
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HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Website, 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 office with your credit card information. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance.
Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 Alexander Video Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0911 Alise Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 All Loving Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0752 Apronstrings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-7621 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .726-0154 Bay Arts Custom Children's Murals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .323-9323 Benton, Mureleen - Ameriprise Financial . . . . . . . . . . . .685-4523 Calkins, Bill - Charlotte Clifford Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9164 Candy Created Bouquets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6818 Carol Keane & Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .937-5200 Case, Kevin - Adam Uneven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-1940 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Clayton Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0110 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4664 Clayton Mind and Body Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0686 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4848 Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Clayton Valley Villa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8401 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Cookies by Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .256-1137 CTA Crossroads Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-0597 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Dajani, Joe - Prudential California Realty . . . . . . . . . . .831-6866 Denim & Lace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0345 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . . . . . . .524-5100 Digital Dreams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .899-6831 Dromlewicz, Kim - Century 21 Diablo Valley Realty . . .682-4663 Eagles Peak Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-0435 Englund's Tea Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8327 Eternal Life Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0295 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Windemere Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8787 Galaxy Nail Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-8668 Garaventa, Les - American Financial & Tax Services . .676-3400 Help You Sell Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 Highfill, Lynne - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7335 Hudak, Jim - Pianist and Composer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7293 Jewitt, Judi - Speech Pathologist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9440 Joanna's Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8911 Kelly Marshall Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0327 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . .939-7920 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Lerner Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-1130 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Marlene M. Eastman, EA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0024 Mazzei Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5600 Merrigan, Deanna - Team Mount Diablo Realty . . . . . . .890-0430 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Miller, Thomas - Certified Public Accountant . . . . . . . . .354-1385 Mingham, Pete - Elite Financial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .906-8166 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 Morgan, Yvonne - Security Pacific Real Estate Svcs. . .974-7675 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . . . . . . .280-8563 Nationwide Floor & Window Coverings . . . . . . . . . . . . .906-9222 NBS Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-1845 Neptune Society of Northern California . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-5100 O'Hara's Martial Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7438 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Padgett Business Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-704-7716 Pasta Primavera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-5300 Postal Annex + of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8900 Rahimzadeh, Helen - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7375 R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0207 Roberta Claire Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .625-1123 Robin's Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Schaefer's Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-6065 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 SPA'tique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .437-1712 Sposito, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7334 Steffen, Tim - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .890-4407 Steve Youse Painting and Decorating . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6945 St. John's Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8855 Stone Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-2094 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 Swint, Brad - Team Funding Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .997-2691 Talmadge, Brad - Home Loan Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . .759-8971 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The Pool Shark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .408-7585 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Tullis, Shanan - Team Mount Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . .286-1268 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-4747 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Intero Real Estate Services . . . . . .672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2300 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . .672-4433 Williams, Mike - Williams Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-5363 Wooden' It Be Nice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5595
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 Website. Attach your photo to the form. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com
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Page A6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
Clayton Pioneer Presidents’ Day Essay Contest
Lincoln wins over Washington in 3 to 1 vote The Pioneer invited Clayton kids to weigh in on a “what if ” election. They were asked “If Abraham Lincoln and George Washington were both running for president today, who would you vote for and why?” Three to one, they favored the honesty of our sixteenth president, Abraham Lincoln. Read on and see what these young thinkers have to say. Each of the first place winners will receive a check for $100 for their school to be spent as the student directs. Thank you to all who entered and congratulations on a job well done. FIRST PLACE
MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVISION NICK GRIMMOND GRADE 7
DIABLO VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL
Presidents’ Day is a holiday that honors two of our most popular presidents of all time, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. If I were to vote for one of these two presidents, I would vote for Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln, in my opinion, saved us from our greatest enemy, ourselves. He guided us through the deadliest war in United States history, the Civil War. Lincoln’s Union of the North defeated Jefferson Davis’s southern Confederacy States of America. If Abraham Lincoln were a presidential candidate for the 2008 elections, his top priorities would most likely be the North Korean and the Iranian nuclear weapons conflict, bringing our troops home from the Iraq war and our dayto-day troubles, like our country’s deficit. Since we are not very friendly with both North Korea and Iran, Lincoln would try to solve the problem before it escalated to a cataclysmic
scale. He would also try and help Iraqi citizens rebuild their lives. Lincoln, like any politician, would have his supporters and his rivals. His greatest supporters would most likely be ordinary Republicans, probably because he was a great conflict solver and knew how to settle major issues that arose during his presidency. Since Lincoln liked to crack down on corruption, people like Tom Delay and Jack Abramoff would not like his ideas, because both were indicted on felony counts earlier this year. Another problem we have today is urbanization. Lincoln, who signed the Homestead Act in 1862, which made millions of acres of government-held land in the west for purchase at very low cost, would, to his extent of power, slow the process of urbanization to the very minimum. When contractors around the world need to build new apartments or houses, they demolish forests to make enough wood for building and to make space for new homes. Urbanization destroys wildlife and trees, which destroys the homes of hundreds of animals. Abraham Lincoln would not like that to happen.
FIRST PLACE
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DIVISION
EMMA CARRICO GRADE 5
WALNUT ACRES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Washington vs. Lincoln If George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were both running for president today who would I vote for? At first I thought I would vote for Abraham Lincoln because he ended slavery, but then I did some research. Both presidents had very interesting lives. Lincoln was 56 when he died and Washington was 67. Both led wars that formed our country. Lincoln was a Republican and disliked slavery. If he was elected president today I think he would work to end sweat shops in China, India, and other poorer countries. If George Washington were elected president today he would focus on other things like the war against terrorism. I think that Washington would try very hard to join with other countries to fight as he did in the Revolutionary war. Then he would fight until
victory. Lincoln would be more hesitant to commit our troops to war, but once committed he would also fight until victory. George Washington was actually viewed as a terrorist by the British. Even though he was a patriot and appreciated hero in America he still would have been a terrorist in Britain. The Americans viewed King George the Third, Britain’s king, as a tyrant and dictator. There’s a saying; one man’s patriot is another man’s terrorist. In Lincoln’s case he was viewed by Southerners as a tyrant. To Lincoln, the southerners were rebels. As you can see both presidents had experience with war and terrorism. I think they both would be surprised at the change in technology. Lincoln would be pleased that there is no longer slavery today. Washington would be pleased with how our country has grown and flourished. I think that they both would be surprised at how many laws we have today and the size of the government. Washington would not like the political backstabbing too well, because he got a little taste of it when he was president and reportedly said that he didn’t enjoy watching his good friends argue. I think Lincoln wouldn’t approve of today’s extreme political partisanship, because he valued a cabinet with diverse opinions and views. I think George Washington would better handle the war in Iraq than Lincoln, because Washington had more experience in making allies. He also had more experience with the type of war we are fighting in
Iraq. It was a very tough decision but if George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were both running for president today I would vote for George Washington.
HONORABLE MENTION
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DIVISION
SARAHCARRICO GRADE 2
WALNUT ACRES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Abraham Lincoln An Honest Man for President If George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were running for president who would I vote for? I would vote for Abraham Lincoln. The main reason I would vote for him is because he was a very honest man and believed in always telling the truth. Abraham Lincoln also fought against slavery and believed that people should not be treated as property of others. I think if Abraham Lincoln was president today he would be sad to see that people are still not being treated equally. If Abraham Lincoln was president today how would he handle the war in Iraq? This is how I think he would handle it. I think he would send everybody home who is fighting in Iraq. If George Washington were president today how would he handle the war in Iraq? This is how I think he would handle it. I think he would try to be the general of the troops. I would like to tell you how Abraham Lincoln and George Washington were different.
This is how I think they were different. George Washington was fine with fighting in the army but Abraham Lincoln hated fighting. In the Civil War over 50,000 soldiers died. Abraham Lincoln was very sad about all the lives lost in the Civil War. This is one problem I think Abraham Lincoln would have. I think he would have a problem with all the fighting between the Democrats and Republicans. In the 1800’s when Abraham Lincoln was president, he was very good at getting groups of people who disagreed with each other to work together for a common goal. Abraham Lincoln would be a good leader for our country because he believed in honesty, equality, and working together to solve problems.
HONORABLE MENTION
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DIVISION
CASEY MITCHELL GRADE 3
MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY
If George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were running for president today, and if I was eighteen, I would vote for Abraham Lincoln. His nickname was Honest Abe, because he rarely ever lied and was very honest. Growing up he was very poor and lived in a log cabin. He couldn’t go to school much, but he still loved to read. I think he would care a lot about schools. Abraham Lincoln had many pets: a cat named Bob, two
See Essay page A7
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Looking for that perfect home? It has often been said that location is the most critical factor affecting a home’s value. The most desirable neighborhoods tend to hold their value over time, so it makes sense to buy in the best neighborhood you can afford. To fully evaluate the location of a home you’re interested in, visit the neighborhood on your own at several different times of day and night. Talk to neighbors. Visit the local schools and shops. Drive from the home to your job a few times during the rush hour. If you’re dependent on public transportation, find out what’s available and how accessible it is. Drive to and from the house from several different directions, not just the scenic route that your agent used when showing you the house. If crime is a concern, visit the local precinct and ask for recent crime statistics. Ask your agent to find out the percentage of absentee owners in the neighborhood. A higher percentage of owneroccupants is desirable, usually contributing to a better-main-
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Page A7
goats named Nano and Nanko, a turkey named Jack, and a dog named Jib. Since he had so many pets I think he would make sure that all the animals of the world had a safe shelter and food. Mr. Lincoln loved playing with his younger sons,
The size and room count of tained community. Location within a neigh- a house are important and borhood also is important. must suit your needs. From an Close proximity to busy investment standpoint, if you streets, commercial establish- can afford to buy a three-bedments, freeway noise, schools room, two-bath home, it will give you more or a waste dump appreciation can lower the potential than a value of a propertwo-bedroom, ty. You may be one-bath home able to negotiate a will. good deal on a But the house with a locabiggest house tion defect but on the block is expect to sell the usually not the house at a disbest investcount to the next LYNNE FRENCH ment. You’re buyer. better off buyAfter locaREAL ESTATE ing a moderatetion, the strucsize home in a tural integrity larger and physical condition of the neighborhood of property should be a primary homes. Another factor to consider consideration. Don’t trust yourself to make the final is the floor plan or layout of determination about a home’s the home. It should provide physical condition. Hire pro- easy flow from room to room fessionals to inspect the home and a good separation of livthoroughly before you com- ing spaces. Light, an efficient plete a purchase. You’ll want to kitchen, adequate storage and know if the property has any off-street parking are also significant defects and whether important. A home at a bargain price any of the major systems, such as heating or plumbing, are may be no bargain at all if the maintenance costs are prohibigoing to need replacing soon.
tive. Find out when the house was last painted and re-roofed. Ask the seller to provide you with copies of utility bills so you can accurately budget the ongoing cost of your home purchase. If the house has a large yard, trees, a swimming pool and/or spa, and you don’t have the time or expertise for pool or yard work, find out what the current owner pays to maintain those amenities. A house purchase is more than an investment, it’s home. The character of a home and its neighborhood must suit your individual taste and needs. There will inevitably be a subjective factor that affects your choice of a home. Also, keep in mind that the perfect home does not exist-not at any price. You’ll have to make some compromises, like settling for one less bedroom but a better location or getting one more bathroom but no view. The choice is yours.
who both died when they were very young. He stored important papers in his hat. Abraham Lincoln made the last Thursday of November the official Thanksgiving Day. Abraham Lincoln was president during the Civil War. I think if he was president today he would try and prevent wars from happening. Since he wanted to free the slaves I think he would want all people to be
people. He would probably think America’s greatest strength is that people get to vote. I would vote for Abraham Lincoln because he was so honest and kind. I think Abraham Lincoln would be a great president because he’s honest, cares about animals, and cares about people. So that is the story of why I would vote for Abraham Lincoln.
treated equally. Abe was the tallest president at 6’4”. He was also the first president to have a beard. He was good at a lot of things. Before he was president Abraham Lincoln was a storekeeper, a rail-splitter, a postmaster, and a lawyer. Abe Lincoln would probably think that America’s biggest problem is that there are a lot of poor people and homeless
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Letters to the Editor CROSSING GUARD IS MAD Dear Editor: I’d like to say “thank you” to the male driver of a silver Mercedes SUV who completely ignored the stop sign I was holding to stop traffic for a parent crossing the street pushing a baby stroller this morning, Feb. 13, between 7:58 and 8:05 a.m. You just avoided hitting me as you made a right turn at Oak and Center Streets. This is not the first time you have made this turn without stopping and if I had been faster I would have gotten your license plate number. There are witnesses who can verify what you did. The only good thing is that nothing happened and no one was hurt. But they could have been. I hope you will obey the law from now and forever. - Ben Ross Crossing Guard ROTARY MEMBER ANSWERS CALENDAR CRITIC Dear Editor, Thanks to Patricia Wallace’s comments in the Jan. 22 Pioneer. If not for her reaction to the “Clayton Calendar Girl?” story, there would be less oppor-
tunity to extol amazing things happening for humankind because of what 1.2 million Rotarians in more than 30 thousand Rotary clubs do in the world. Yes, the Calendar story got attention. Some members of our club realized a few would snicker and a few would frown. Even so, we 40, 50 and 60-somethings had fun producing it, and hoped all would have a good laugh...even at our expense— hardly a Playboy expose. Our mission is to support and assist credible community and international projects. Sales of this calendar help do that. The calendar also highlights some Concord Rotary programs and projects such as stenciled U.S. maps on local elementary school grounds; dictionaries for identified third grade students; long-term helping hands to Hurricane Katrina disaster families; delivering an ambulance 3,000 miles into Mexico to the Mexican Red Cross; leadership training for high school youth; small prostheses manufacturing plant and clean drinking water to a remote, deprived village in Ecuador...and more.
Book, from page A1 evolution of the building that now houses the Clayton Community Church offices. Several other historic buildings can still be found downtown, including the Clayton Club, Endeavor Hall and the Historical Society Museum.
“I think people will be interested in reading it because they will put faces to the street names in Clayton, such as Stranahan, Goethals and Rhine,” says Easton. The price of the book is $19.99, with all proceeds bene-
Mayor, from page A1 Little League has more than 850 kids participating this year. Those are just a few of the youth sports helping our children keep fit, develop life skills and have fun. Now the part most of us forget the coaches, referees, planners and helpers for these sports. Did you know they are all volunteers? That’s right, your friends, your neighbors, even your enemies are giving their time to make a difference in a child’s life. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, but most do it for the right reasons. So with that perspective, do you really want to yell at them for missing a call or because your child did not play the whole game? Do you want to be the person who sees a player the next year and gets a huge grin and a “Hi Coach” or a “Hey, Ref ?” I do, and nothing makes my day more than knowing I made a difference. How many of you remember a coach who made you love the game and had an impact on your life?
Come on Shoe, why all this sappy stuff ? It is because we need more of you to volunteer to be a coach, a scorekeeper, an umpire a hero to some kid. I urge you to call the YMCA, CYO, Little League or any other organization and tell them you want to volunteer your time. If you’re too busy to Google the number, email me at Shuey@rankinlaw.com and I will do it for you.
The six Rotary clubs in the immediate area operate independently of one another, however they often collaborate on projects to make things happen for the community. Three Concord/Clayton clubs teamed up last summer to construct a family covered rest area in Cowell Park, and then held a golf tournament in July to benefit a program that promotes character-development and lifeenhancing values in youth through golf. Like my friends in the Clayton Valley club (photo in Jan. 22 Pioneer), Concord Rotary also teamed up with Salvation Army on Sat. Dec. 17 for their annual Christmas Kettle Campaign. In that oneday friendly competition among four clubs, more than $10,000 was raised. I invite Patricia Wallace and others to check out Rotary. There is so much happening.... - Memory Woodard Rotary Club of Concord GYM IS GOOD PARTY PLACE Dear Editor, We have so much to be grateful for living in this wonderful
February 24, 2006
city of Clayton. One of the little known secrets of this great town is the YMCA and gym located at Diablo Middle School. Both of our children (ages 8 and 10) have celebrated their birthdays using the spacious gym facilities for their parties. We rented the gym for 3 hours at a price much cheaper than that of other “birthday” facilities. With our contract we had use of all balls and equipment from the YMCA and the entire gym to ourselves. We also had a YMCA “helper” who was at the gym the entire time. Have you ever seen 20 plus kids in a gym doing whatever they want? It is a beautiful sight. They had a blast – everyone found their favorite activities to do – and there was no one to tell them that they must do it this way or that…just kids being kids. We had “free” gym time and a few organized games as well. We were able to bring our choice of food and drinks into the front area too. With a birthday party at the gym, there is so much to do; so much fun to be had and it is here in our backyard. We wanted to let all parents know that this facility is available to be rented to anyone looking for a memorable party. And, all you need to do is call the YMCA at 889-1600. - Deborah and Phil Meyland
fiting the Historical Society. Books may be ordered at the museum for delivery the first week of March. “Images of America – Clayton” also will be available for sale at the Clayton Community Library Foundation’s library birthday party on March 4 and 5. Or, the book can be purchased at the
Clayton Museum beginning March 5. The Clayton Historical Society Museum is at 6101 Main St. and is open 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays. For more information, call 6720240, visit www.claytonhs.com or email claytonmuseum@ sbcglobal.net.
THE KIDS WILL THANK YOU. Finally, a little Norman Rockwell moment from our crossing guard at the bottom of the hill, Ben Ross. He told me a story of a little boy and girl who attend the school, and every day the little girl is dressed in pink. Ben would always say to her that she looked “pretty in pink” (see, even Ben uses movie references for those Molly Ringwald fans). One day, the little girl is not wearing pink. The boy comes up to Ben and says, “She’s not
in pink today, but she’s still pretty.” Out of the mouths of babes. Have a great week. Shoe.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Northern California geography influences our weather patterns
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Most of California, including the Clayton area, is classified as a Mediterranean climate signified by mild rainy winters and hot dry summers. While this general classification is true, you do not have to live in this part of the state long to realize that the “one size fits all” climate designation needs refinement due to the complex geography and variety of weather conditions on any given day or during any season. One way of solving this dilemma is to establish smaller climate zones. Geographical features provide natural boundaries for defining climate. In Northern California, the main geographical features are the Pacific Ocean, the Coastal Range, the Central Valley and Sierra Nevada. The Coast Range of mountains serves as a natural boundary between the ocean and interior valley. Therefore, it is natural to subdivide Northern California west of the Sierra into two climate zones based on geography, coastal and inland. Pacific Ocean waters off the coast of Northern California are relatively cool year-round due to the upwelling of cool subsurface waters near the coast. The surface water chills the layer of air immediately above it. Known as the marine
layer, this shallow air mass tion and strength of the surface greatly influences the weather winds. along the immediate coast and Onshore (blowing from in coastal valleys. On many coast to interior) or offshore mornings, fog forms in the cool (blowing from interior to coast) moist air. Extremely hot or cold winds develop when there is a temperatures are rare, since the difference in atmospheric presocean temperature remains sure, or pressure gradient, nearly constant. between the coast and interior. The Coastal Summer sea Range, which breezes develop includes Mt. when the pressure Diablo, stretches is higher along the from north to coast, allowing south between the cool marine layer Pacific and Central air to move into Valley. The hills coastal valleys and and mountains of the Sacramento the Coast Range Delta. We refer to provide a boundthese sea breezes ary between the WOODY WHITLATCH as nature’s air concoast and the WEATHER WORDS ditioning, which Central Valley. spares coastal valThe Central Valley is a flat, ley locations like Clayton the elongated bowl-like geographi- intense heat of the Central cal feature that stretches from Valley. Redding to Bakersfield. In the Occasionally, the summer summer months, afternoon pressure patterns reverse and temperatures often reach 100 the marine layer stays over the degrees. In the winter, a dense ocean. On these days, the hot layer of cold fog, known as tule Central Valley air is pushed into fog, often forms. coastal valleys. This weather A unique feature of the pattern results in afternoon Coastal Range is the near sea temperatures that can exceed level gap between the coast and 100 degrees in Clayton. interior where the Sacramento During winter, the Central River meets the Bay. This gap Valley may be covered with a allows the marine air and interi- layer of tule fog. If offshore or air to mix or displace each pressure gradients develop, the other, depending on the direc- cool winter fog will be blown
over the Kirker Ridge into Clayton. Afternoon temperatures seldom get out of the 40s on these days. Clayton’s coldest temperatures can result from strong offshore flow in the winter. On rare occasions, a cold Arctic air mass is driven into California from the northeast. If the wind patterns are strong enough, this cold air mass will cross the Sierra, blow through the Central Valley and affect the coastal valleys. These rare events can produce nighttime temperatures in the teens in the Clayton area. The weather in Clayton is highly dependent on geography and the direction and strength of local winds. But the question remains: How do we classify the Clayton climate coastal or interior? Our climate is a hybrid, with some days coastal, some days interior and some days a mixture of both. Maybe the best term would be “coasterior.” If you have a weather question, I’d be happy to answer it in this column. And remember, no matter what the weather, bring your own sunshine Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
Quick refresher on key Explorer buttons Of the many buttons on the Internet Explorer Web browser, the Stop, Refresh and Home icons are important to understand.
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The Stop button is marked with a red X on a piece of paper. It will stop downloading or trying to view the page just requested. Next to the Stop button is Refresh, which looks like two green arrows on a page. They point in a circular direction, head to tail, round and round. Refresh fixes files and allows malformed pages to be displayed. When you surf the Internet, you are not viewing pages as you would on a TV screen. A TV station sends signals that are received by the receiver (TV) and processed directly to your TV screen. The Internet, however, sends files that are stored on your hard drive, reread and then displayed on your monitor. You won’t see a page until it has been properly saved on your hard drive. The downloaded files are often corrupted or improperly formed during the download process. Therefore, the page won’t display properly. The Internet is a series of computers linking you to the page you want to view. Each
computer in the chain is called a “hop.” Sometimes a computer in the hop doesn’t work properly, causing your download to fail or hang up. The Refresh button tells the computer to try the Internet page download again, most of the time using a different set of hops. When your file is received and properly stored in the hard drive, it will be displayed on the monitor. It is especially helpful to use Refresh if you believe the computer is frozen on an Internet page or if the page shows only part of the graphics or text. If the progress bar at the bottom of the browser window isn’t moving, indicating no activity with your target page, click the Refresh button to try the page again. If this fails, it could be a sign of other problems with your computer or its software. In that case consult an IT specialist. Clicking the icon of a house will take you back to your startup page. Every time you start your browser, it heads for your home page. If you would prefer a different home page, you can
easily change it. First, open your browser and click on Tools, then Internet Options. The first tab across the top will be General. On the General tab, the first entry is Home Page. You will see the
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK URL, or Web address, typed in the white box. Type the new home page you want (for example, http://shopcusa.com) and close the window with the OK button. Will Claney is the owner and operator of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-672-9989.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
Schaefer’s
Reflections on a day in the life of...me
School News MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Mt. Diablo Elementary chorus students are preparing the fun and exciting show, Disney’s Aladdin Jr. for a spring production on Mar. 9 and 10 at 7 p.m. The cast is made up of 100 fourth and fifth grade budding actors. The play, directed by Christine Billingsley, has all original Disney music. Mt. Diablo elementary has done a spring production for years with shows including Oliver Twist, The Emperor’s New Clothes, and Treasure Island. Mt. Diablo Elementary, Multi-Use Room, 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton. Benefit Auction: The sixth annual Mt. Diablo Benefit Auction will be Saturday, Mar. 25. The theme will be “Denim and Diamonds.” The auction sold out last year, so start looking for a babysitter now. To honor vintage Clayton and to keep the dads happy, we are planning a Western theme. The menu will include BBQ favorites. Look for new events and lots of great items to bid on during the silent and live auctions. It’s a great way to support the school and have a night out with friends. DIABLO VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL Diablo View will hold a fifth grade parent information meeting Mon., Mar. 13 at 7 p.m. in the MUR for next year’s incoming sixth graders. Drama has come to Diablo View Middle School. Dear Edwina, a musical comedy, will be performed by members of the DVMS Drama Program. This after school enrichment will be held Wednesdays from 2 - 4 p.m. beginning Feb. 22, culminating in a performance at the end of May. Students will be involved in all areas of production while improving their overall acting skills. Please contact Patti Pratt at 5kids4us@comcast.net for program, cost and commitment details. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in an incredible program close to home and fun for all.
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CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL Across the United States, March is designated “Music in our Schools” month. In recognition of the importance of music to brain development, language and math development, and to acknowledge the importance of music to a culture and community our Clayton area school bands will perform a free community concert on Mon. Mar. 6 at 7:30 p.m. Students from Mt. Diablo and Ayers Elementary, Diablo View Middle, and Clayton Valley High Schools present the
annual Clayton Area Band Festival at Clayton Valley High School. Always a crowd favorite, the bands will conclude the event with all bands performing “America, the Beautiful” simultaneously. Summer Arts Program: The Mt. Diablo Unified School District is including a summer arts program in conjunction with summer school. Students that are currently in grades 7, 8, and 9 may register for performing and visual arts enrichment classes which will be held at Clayton Valley High School. Classes include band, string orchestra, guitar, choir, drama, dance, and art. Registration material will be available at the schools on March 1. Classes run from June 26-July 25, with no school meeting on July 3 or 4. For more information about the summer arts program, please contact Mr. Mundy Viar, summer arts principal, at 682-7474 x 3125. The Clayton Valley High School Parent Faculty Club is having a Benefit Auction for Technology on Friday, May 5, at Centre Concord. The purpose of the auction is to raise muchneeded funds to update the school computers. The Cinco de Mayo Fiesta will include dinner, dancing, gaming, a silent auction and prizes. The committee is seeking donations of cash sponsorships, vouchers and gift certificates. For more information, contact PFC president Mindy Moore at 672-0930 or melindammoore@yahoo.com. Upcoming School Events: March 1 - Diablo View’s Guest Artist Jazz Night; March 24 weekend - Diablo View’s participation in the Disney Magic Music Days in Anaheim; March 18 Clayton Valley’s Spring Dinner Dance, featuring live jazz music, at Oakhurst Country Club; End of March - Clayton Valley’s Jazz Ensemble performance in the Santa Cruz Jazz Festival at the end of March. For additional information on these events, including ticket purchases to the Diablo View and/or Clayton Valley events on March 1 and 18, please contact Mr. Mundy Viar at Clayton Valley High School, 682-7474 x 3125.
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er
Days are like snowflakes, each with a unique geometry. Some glint with the power of the sun, while others are opaque from an absence of light. They bind to each other to form a whole new world, much as our days bind together to make our lives. Because of the importance of the days in our lives, I decid-
to each person leaving. Maybe he’ll get a ticket. Maybe she’ll crash. Mostly likely, they’ll get home and just continue with their lives. Somewhere nearby, someone hits a turn too fast and the wheels screech. “I wonder why people speed back to Clayton,” someone says. “It’s not like anyone should want to go there.” But what are the options to speeding home? We either head full speed toward another in a series of seemingly endless nights of homework, TV and Myspace, or stay static, sitting in a vacating parking lot. So, we head home – ready to start the routine over again tomorrow. For comments or questions contact Deirdre at CVHS@claytonpioneer.com
i
CVHS REPORTER
dozens of times. No matter what the problem, comedy can make it better. Laughter makes life bearable. Wednesdays mean speech. Wednesdays mean “stop.” “Sam.” “Sit.” “Sushi.” “Lisp.” No matter how hard we try, there will always be something to fix. Maybe someday, there will be a support group for people with speech impediments – like they have for alcoholics and drug abusers. “Hi, I’m Deirdre,” I’ll say, wearing a little nametag on my jacket. “And I ... well, I have a lisp.” Applause. Oh, did I fade into my imagination again? “Stop. Sam. Sit. Sushi. Lisp. Sorry.” Later, while tailgating in the back parking lot, waiting for the typical after-school traffic to clear, I wonder what will happen
embra c
DEIRDRE RUSCITTI
ed to write a column about a day in my life. It’s one example of what it is like to be a high school student. The moon is still out in full force as the key turns and the engine of my car sparks. Behind me, the ground shines red from the brake lights. It’s 6:40 a.m. Time to leave for school. Ten minutes and four miles later, I walk, zombie-like from a lack of sleep, into a classroom full of students with half-open eyes and Starbucks cups. It’s far too early for all involved, but this was the only time this class was offered. As the early arrivers wait for class to begin, we pick up a copy of “America: The Book” by the writers of “The Daily Show” with Jon Stewart. I skim through pages I’ve already seen
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Page A11
FOR
THOUGHT
Mardi Gras time is here, and I’m reminded of a wonderful trip to New Orleans last year. Yet my heart goes out to the Katrina victims who are slowly piecing their lives back together. Food memories are probably some of the most durable among humans, and my memories of a savory gumbo from that visit still linger. I recall a well-weathered face, hair caught up in a bandana, serving steaming spoonfuls over a bowl of white rice. That got me to thinking of an essential gumbo ingredient okra. Wild okra still grows in the White Nile region, including parts of Ethiopia, Eritrea and the Sudan. Okra has been cultivated for more than 1,000 years in Egypt. Its use in Arabic dishes spread from the Spanish Moors, around the Mediterranean, across Asia Minor (Turkey) and into India. It is likely that French colonists introduced okra to North American cuisine in the 1700s, although it was also part of African-American cuisine that came through the slave trade. Okra is far more common in Southern cuisine than in other regional dishes. However, its cultivation has increased fairly dramatically in recent years for use in commercial soup production. Okra is not a particularly favorite vegetable here in
America. Some of that is due to a lack of information on how to use it. If it’s not picked young and fresh (it grows very quickly), it gets tough and stringy. The gooey or mucilaginous nature of okra can be overcome with proper cooking, but an improper technique can dissuade even the heartiest eater from enjoying this veggie. Okra is seldom its own dish. It can be fried when fresh, but it can also be canned, dried and pickled. Its thickening properties make it a key ingredient in soups and stews. Oil is extracted from its seeds around the Mediterranean, in some Arab countries and India. There’s even some anecdotal evidence that the seeds are sometimes roasted and ground as a coffee substitute. Some of the names of the okra dishes are interesting. They are pretty good recipes too, so let’s see if any of these titillate your taste buds: LIMPING SUSAN 3 bacon slices 1 c onion, chopped ½ c celery, chopped ½ c carrot, diced ½ c fresh okra, ends trimmed, sliced ½ c fresh or frozen corn kernels ½ c water 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp dried thyme ½ tsp dried oregano 1 bay leaf ¼ tsp red pepper flakes cooked rice chopped tomato and green onion for garnish Cook bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble. In the bacon drippings, saute the onion, celery,
garlic and carrot until the onion is translucent. Add the okra, corn, water and spices and sim-
OKRA
mer for 15 minutes. Check to be sure vegetables are tender. Remove the bay leaf, add the bacon and serve over hot cooked rice with tomato and green onion garnishes. PURLOO (OR PILAU) 4 boneless chicken breasts 2 cans chicken broth 1 lb. bulk breakfast sausage ½ lb. polish sausage, thinly sliced 2 onions, chopped 2 red bell peppers, chopped ½ c fresh okra, thinly sliced 1 fresh habanero or jalapeno pepper, minced ¼ tsp red pepper flakes ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp black pepper 1 c long-grain white rice Simmer chicken breasts in broth until very tender, about one hour. Remove, cool and shred the meat. Skim fat from broth and reserve. Crumble and brown the breakfast sausage over medium high heat until browned. Add polish sausage, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Cook for five minutes. Drain meat, reserving 2 Tbsp of the fat. In the reserved fat, cook onions and peppers over high heat until the onion is soft. Add chicken, sausage, sauteed vegetables and raw okra to chicken
broth. (There should be about 2¼ c. broth; add water if needed). Add rice and bring mixture to a boil, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for another five minutes. Adjust seasonings if needed. OKRA AND SHRIMP GUMBO 6 Tbsp canola or rice bran oil, divided 3 Tbsp flour 1 onion, chopped 1 c celery, chopped 5 cloves garlic, chopped 1 c green pepper, chopped 1 8-oz. can tomato sauce 1 14-15 oz. can whole tomatoes 1 lb. fresh okra, sliced 1 bay leaf 2 tsp pre-mixed Cajun spice 2½ c water 2 lbs fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined Stir flour into 3 Tbsp oil in heavy skillet. Over medium high heat, stir roux until quite brown. Add onions, celery, garlic and green pepper and stir until onions are translucent. Add tomato sauce and Cajun spice. Simmer, stirring occasionally. In another skillet, fry okra in remaining oil until it loses its sticky, gooey texture. Add fried okra and canned tomatoes to vegetable mixture. Slowly stir in 2 c water to make smooth sauce. Simmer for an hour, stirring occasionally. Add water as needed to keep sauce consistency. Add bay leaf and shrimp and cook for another 30 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve over hot rice. Linda Wyner is an attorney in Walnut Creek by day, and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com
Club News KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS The Knights of Columbus, Concord Council 6038 will be moving to a new location for their Monthly meetings starting Mar. 7. The new location will be St.Agnes Parish Hall, the first Tues. of each month at 7:30 p.m. St. Agnes is at 3966 Chestnut Ave. in Concord. The 33rd Annual District Basketball Free Throw Competition for all the Councils in District 33 will be held at the Diablo View Community Gym on Feb 26, from 2 to 4 p.m. Winners from six Councils including Martinez, Concord, Bay Point and Pittsburg will be competing in different age groups. The winners will move forward to the Oakland diocese competition Mar. 5 at the Foothill
Community Gym at 9 a.m. in Walnut Creek. Athletes from eight districts will compete for the right to go to the state competition finals in Fresno, Mar. 25. The pros need to take some lessons from these excellent shooting athletes. For more information, call Clare Tryon, 673-8564. ROTARY CLUB
On Feb. 3 the Rotary Club of Concord was recognized by Captain Suzanne Mondell of the Salvation Army for the club’s efforts to help the Army with their annual Christmas kettle campaign. Twenty-four members of the Rotary Club manned two locations on Dec. 17, in front of Mervyn’s at Sun Valley Mall. Activity chair Rick Ernst started the bell ringing for the
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Back row: Harry Bowers , Bruce Hall , David Miller , Jerry Varcak, Al Kappadahl, William Chan and John Pereira. Second row: Larry Sauers, Lynda Gonen, Chris Moulis , Karen Lynaugh and Memory Woodard. Front row: Dr. Lee Noll, Luis Alkon, George Calhoun and Rick Ernst . Center: Captain Suzanne Mondell.
kettle collection at the club’s Fri. noon meeting. Coupled with shoppers’ donations, the club collected $5,900. Captain Mondell also presented a plaque to Concord Rotary to commem-
orate the highest amount of money raised among local Rotary clubs in the one-day bell ringing competition - $3,500. The figure was more than any other participating club’s one-day total.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
Pulling weeds is the first chore on spring’s to-do list NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get dirty. We have a lot to do in the yard and garden to prepare for spring. So let’s get out there and start weeding, amending, fertilizing and pruning. This column will be split into two parts, with the goal of completing the yard work by midMarch. Today, I will discuss weeding and amending. Weeding is my least favorite yard chore. I am forever trying to figure out an easier way to get the job done. Annual blue grass is a simple weed to pull by hand. The reach and pulls method is a great way to control this pesty weed as it pops up in flower beds and pathways. If poa annua seeds into your lawn, pulling by hand becomes more of a commitment because the annual blue grass roots tangle up in the lawn roots. If you have this problem, you may choose to use a weed and feed product, or spot herbicide. Look for a 25-3-8 combination of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in a weed and feed product. Consider the secondary nutrients as well as the micronutrients. For a healthy lawn, traces of sulfur, magnesium and iron should also be present in your weed and feed product. As with any granular fertilizer, apply to well-watered soil. A broadleaf weed killer can be applied to infected spots of the lawn when stated in the p r o d u c t ’s label.
Dandelion, spurge and oxalis are some of the lawn weeds that are controlled with spot treating. Spot spraying may be an alternative when the type of weed is too scary to pull or the amount of weeds makes the idea of hand pulling more than you can bear. Bur clover, mallows and scarlet pimpernel are among the annual weeds you may decide to control with a chemical herbicide. Kleenup is an excellent grass and weed killer found in a ready-to-use bottle as well as a concentrate for those with larger yards and more weeds. The chemical glyphosate it the active ingredient in most weed killers. The percentage of chemical present will depend on the amount used, frequency of application and speed of weed death. With all herbicides, be cautious when applying. The mist from chemicals has been known to defoliate shrubs and trees, as well as kill parts of lawns. Spray on days when wind is not a problem and when rain is not forecasted. For areas of relentless weed invasion, pull out the big guns the pre-emergent. These products are designed to prevent weed seed from germinating in areas of established plants. If your lawn is invaded with crabgrass ever summer, use a lawn food with pre-emergent during March. If your hillside gets run over with thistles, foxtail and pig weeds, to name a few, use a liquid concentrate selective preemergence. Products such as Weed Stopper II will prevent the weed seed from germinating and leave the plants alone. Read the label of any product to make sure most of your landscape plants are listed as species that are safe to be sprayed with pre-emergence. Granular pre-emergence may be desirable for smaller gardens. Prevent is a safe product, and Amaze is also available. Remember that the idea of using a pre-emergent is to prevent weed germination. This
means that the growing weed will not be harmed, so you may still have to use the bend and pull method or use an herbicide to get rid of the established weeds. With careful spraying, some products can be combined to do both jobs at once. Ask your nursery professional for advice and guidance on mixing the chemicals. Amending the soil should be an annual chore for all Clayton yard and garden lovers. We expect so much from our dirt, but first we need to put back what we have taken away. Gold Rush is a long-lasting organic fir bark soil conditioner and mulch that helps conserve water, inhibit weed growth and improve soil structure. If you are not shopping at a Master Nursery Garden Center, look for a conditioner with fir bark, rather than redwood bark. The redwood will add acid to the soil, which is great for acid-loving plants such as azalea and gardenias but is less desirable for most plants in a normal landscape. Chicken manure should be listed as an ingredient, with a recommended amount of 15 percent. Earthworm casting, bat guano, kelp meal, mushroom compost and gypsum should also be part of a well-rounded soil conditioner for our type of dirt. Liberally spread the conditioner around your woody shrubs and trees – but not your perennials, citrus or roses. They have more demands and would love a little more from their soil amendments. While fertilizer is a good option, it’s also nice to add nutrients naturally to the soil. Add two to three inches of amendment around existing woody shrubs and trees from the base of the plant to the crown line of the top. Perennials, roses and citrus, on the other hand, need a soil conditioner rich in aged nitrogen. Choose a premium organic soil builder with 25 percent chicken manure, mushroom
compost, earthworm castings and sea kelp meal. Also look for micro-nutrients, such as a list of beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizae. These ingredients are essential to creating a living environment in the soil that works with the plants to ensure great crop or flower production. It’s a good idea to spread two to three inches of premium soil conditioner around the base of each plant and water thoroughly. This amendment may also be used as a planting mix for your annuals and vegetable beds. The results are fabulous.
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contain small rose bushes by planting Lobelia or Bacopa along with the roses. In the 12 raised planters on Main Street, they want to plant red upright Geraniums along with Lobelia or Bacopa to add color and variety to the Crape Myrtle and Chinese Pistache trees that grow in the planters now. The Council unanimously approved the Garden Club’s
Beautification Project. The flowers should be in full bloom in time to showcase the city for the Art and Wine Festival Apr. 29-30. “This…is yet another shining example of the community and the City working together to keep Clayton the special place that it is,” said City Manager Gary Napper in his report to the City Council.
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Page A13
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wit, but it also holds that author’s ability to pull the audiences’ heartstrings when appropriate. One-liners had the audience in belly laughs. The women near me were dabbing away tears; and the entire audience broke into applause repeatedly throughout both portions. From the opening credits through George Fenton’s lovely musical finale, “Mrs. Henderson Presents” never fails to do just that. In a world where anyone can wander San Francisco’s Broadway to see a plethora of flesh for sale, the Windmill Theatre offers “art” – that is, nudes who do not move. It’s like Botticelli or da Vinci (though “the Mona Lisa wore a dress ...”) Dench has been nominated for five Oscars but has won only once – ironically for “Shakespeare in Love,” a film in which she appeared for approximately six minutes as the grandiose Queen Elizabeth. This year, she is nominated for a much more substantial role, which should work in her favor. The fact that the movie has only now been moved from “Limited Release” to “Slightly Less Limited but Certainly not Full Release” could be the most detrimental element to Dench’s ascension to Oscar royalty. While Dench is perfectly capable of stealing every scene in which she appears – and some in which she does not, the sup-
is immaculate and ready for you to enjoy. Great commute access. Offered at $689,000.
ported. However, his proper British persona lends an air of artistic license to what could otherwise have become a tawdry display of flesh and vice. The object of said flesh, Maureen, is played with sweet melancholy by Kelly Reilly. Her strength, will and tender vulnerability rip the viewers’ hearts out of their chests and force tears from their eyes. This movie could easily be marketed as “that burlesque
Walnut Creek BART, at County Connection headquarters in Concord or through the mail. For information on bus routes and schedules, call 6767500 or visit www.cccta.org. To offset the loss of fare revenue, County Connection enlisted corporate sponsors for the anniversary events. “Special
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thanks go to 511 Contra Costa, Commuter Check Inc. and the new radio station 92.1 KKDV, who sponsored this specific event,” says Suzanne Angeli, chair of County Connection’s board. Those wishing to become sponsors or donate prizes for the anniversary celebration can call 676-1976, ext. 204.
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In a season that has presented us with such serious portrayals of the human experience as “Munich” and “Capote,” perhaps it is time to remember that life also contains joy, tears, love and laughter, even during times of destruction or woe.
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film,” as Brokeback Mountain has become “that gay cowboy film,” but any movie set in London during the 1930s and 1940s is destined for much more, and “Mrs. Henderson” provides no less rich an experience.
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County Connection offers anniversary pass in March As part of a yearlong celebration of 25 years of service, County Connection will offer a 25-ride bus pass for $15, or 60 cents a ride. The anniversary pass is on sale now and will be valid all through March. The anniversary bus pass is available at the Walnut Creek Transportation Center at
Clayton -- Enjoy the country club lifestyle in this 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home. Vaulted ceilings, bright with architectural details. Offered at $669,000.
porting cast gives this delightful film its flavor. Bob Hoskins is Vivian Van Damm (or Damn Van as far as Mrs. Henderson is concerned), the new manager of the Windmill Theatre. Far from entertained by the whims of his new boss, he repeatedly exercises an authority that only a woman in the 1930s would have sup-
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
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PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
Mortgage Market Update
Just Listed. Exceptional "Nantucket" model with rare 4 car garage! 4 bedrooms + loft & den, 2.5 baths, 3,599 sq. ft. Upgrades include: 12" tile floors, neutral carpets, designer paint, light fixtures & custom window coverings. Living room & dining room with upgraded hardwood floors, fireplace & views. Gourmet kitchen features upgrade tile floors, counters, island, full backsplash, upgraded maple cabinets & pantry. Large master suite & bath with views of city, valley & Delta! Large level (.29 apx) acre lot with in-ground pool & spa with automatic cover, aggregate patio & walkways, various lawn areas, trellis cover & lots of palm trees. $1,175,000
Conforming $417,000 or less (no points)
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30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . . .6.00% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .6.005% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . . .6.25% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . . .6.25% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.125% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.5%
30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . . .6.00% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . . .6.00% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .6.375% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .6.375% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.25% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.625%
WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB Charming "Crandall" model on a private court! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,877sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Upgraded gleaming hardwood floors in entry extend into kitchen, laundry & ½ bath. Living room features a marble fireplace, neutral carpet, vaulted ceiling & wet bar. Formal dining area with bay window & vaulted ceiling. Kitchen features upgraded stainless steel "Dacor" gas range & "Broan" Vent Hood, tile counters, sunny garden window & cozy breakfast nook. Spacious master suite offers wooded & hillside views. Secluded lot features a trellis covered deck with built-in bench seating, meandering dry creek bed & sweeping views of surrounding hills. $749,000
WESTWOOD, CLAYTON Just Listed! Nestled on a quiet court! 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 1,546sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. New paint, neutral carpet & vinyl flooring throughout! Living & dining area feature a vaulted ceiling & brick fireplace. Kitchen with separate eating area. Rear yard features a sparkling in-ground pool, patio, lawn area & gated side yard. $669,500
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB Fabulous "Coronado" model! with 1st floor master suite. 4 bedrooms + loft, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,335sf, 2
fireplaces & 3 car garage. Upgrades include: tile floors, neutral carpet, light fixtures (inside & out), window coverings, crown molding & designer paint! Elegant formal dining room off kitchen with crown molding. Living room with fireplace. Gourmet kitchen features granite tile counters, island, maple cabinets & upgr. stainless steel appliances. Large family room with fireplace & custom maple built-in media cabinets. Spacious master suite with sliding glass door to private patio. Fantastic private large (.36 approx) acre lot features prof. landscape, towering redwoods, roses, multiple lawn areas, custom aggregate patio with a relaxing in-ground spa in a private setting off master bedroom. $1,099,000
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB Spectacular Custom Home on a prime ridgeline view lot! backing to open space with commanding views of oak dotted hills-canyons & ridgeline! 5 bedrooms + den, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,850sf, 2 fireplaces & 2 car garage with work area & storage closet. Grand scale entry with impressive mahogany double doors, granite tile entry & ornate light fixture. Downstairs guest suite with private full bath. Elegant living room features a granite tile fireplace. Banquet size formal dining room. Enormous gourmet kitchen features 18" tile floors, huge eating area & granite tile counters & island. Spacious family room boasts a gorgeous natural slate tile fireplace & custom built-in cabinetry. Luxurious master suite offers dual French sliding glass doors leading to balcony overlooking
exhilarating & inspiring views! Private lot features an expansive random pattern stone patio & lawn area that blends into open space. $1,275,000
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Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
1032 Pebble Beach Dr 90 Mt. McKinley Ct 107 El Portal Place 104 Mt. Whitney Way 905 Arrowhead Terr 410 Chupcan Place 107 Jeffry Ranch Ct. 8027 Kelok Way 8000 Kelok Way 204 Falcon Place 1468 Yosemite Cir 11 Alef Court 24 Ohlone Lane 620 Black Point Ct 1127 Peacock Creek Dr 1874 Eagle Peak Ave 4003 Hummingbird Wy 118 Forest Hill Dr 151 Montaire Parkway 5185 Keller Ridge Dr 459 Obsidian Way 7009 Molluk Way 6015 Golden Eagle 108 Mt. Whitney Way 1175 Shell Lane 198 Mt. Vernon Drive 461 Obsidian Way 605 Condor Place 533 Hamburg Circle 455 Obsidian Way 1547 O'Hara Court 112 La Encinal Court 125 Gold Rush Court 1048 Pebble Beach Dr 1014 Pebble Beach Dr 5878 Caulfield Drive 3078 Windmill Canyon 701 Acorn Drive 260 Stranahan Circle 1880 Eagle Peak Ave 229 El Pueblo Place 227 Stranahan Circle
$1,060,000 $799,000 $915,000 $825,000 $665,000 $715,000 $760,000 $954,980 $889,500 $800,000 $580,000 $897,000 $825,000 $815,000 $1,332,500 $815,000 $900,000 $1,075,000 $800,000 $917,000 $1,020,000 $899,000 $867,000 $778,000 $528,900 $844,000 $938,000 $495,000 $799,950 $1,089,000 $680,000 $960,000 $685,000 $1,125,000 $1,050,000 $719,500 $715,000 $925,000 $710,000 $870,000 $849,980 $665,000
02/09/06 02/07/06 01/31/06 01/24/06 01/17/06 01/06/06 01/03/06 12/29/05 12/28/05 12/23/05 12/19/05 12/16/05 12/16/05 12/15/05 12/14/05 12/08/05 12/08/05 12/02/05 12/1/05 11/29/05 11/23/05 11/22/05 11/21/05 11/18/05 11/16/05 11/16/05 11/10/05 11/9/05 11/9/05 11/4/05 10/28/05 10/26/05 10/21/05 10/19/05 10/19/05 10/14/05 10/13/05 10/10/05 10/7/05 10/3/05 09/30/05 09/30/05
3,335 1,919 2,857 2,566 1,797 1,991 2,150 3,079 2,542 2,467 1,326 2,370 2,313 2,005 4,100 2,467 2,854 3,185 2,448 2,894 3,454 2,854 2,536 2,481 1,145 2,141 2,981 1,252 2,030 2,981 1,739 2,427 1,597 3,820 3,599 1,850 1,816 2,237 1,663 2,467 2,643 1,650
BED/BATH 4/2.5 4/2 5/3 5/3 3/2.5 3/2 4/3 4/3 4/2.5 4/3 3/2 4/2.5 4/2.5 4/2.5 6/3.5 4/3 3/3 4/3.5 4/2 4/3 5/3 5/4 5/2 5/3 2/2 4/2 4/2 2/2 4/2 4/2 4/3 4/2 3/2 4/2 5/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 4/3 5/3 3/2
CLAYTON PIONEER FEBRUARY 24, 2006
Section B
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page B1
Destination: The Canyons, Utah Ski trip with friends is made all the better by fabulous fresh powder
KEVIN PARKER
HIKER’S HAVEN There are a few countermeasures I like to employ to combat the ill effects of the socalled “rat race” that digs deeper into our lives every day. For starters, I’d like to recommend a good old-fashioned ski trip. I’m not talking about a day trip to your favorite local ski area. The trip I speak of is known in some social circles as the “Four Day Blow-Out,” or as I like to call it “My Annual Trip with the Guys.” Some are not afforded the luxury of time away because of family, work and home responsibilities. However, being big on tradition left my wife with no choice but to let me spend some in the Wasatch Mountain Range. I want to publicly thank her for the four-day hall pass. In all honesty, I might have driven her crazy if she kept me at home. When the winter storm cycle is timed just right and you are able to ride the coattails of Mother Nature’s fury, Utah powder is second to none. With four days, a wallet full of cash and a handful of friends, we knew this would be a trip to remember. Day one brought 8 to 10 inches of fresh powder so light and dry that even the nervous powder hound felt like a pro within minutes. We had aspirations of traveling the greater Salt Lake Region to ski at a few dif-
FRESH TRACKS ferent resorts. But upon landing at the Canyons near Park City, we knew it would take more than a day to cover all the terrain. The Canyons (formerly called Park West and then Wolf Mountain) has seen a lot of expansion in terms of ski lifts and terrain. I almost did not recognize the trail map as we rode the Cabriolet people mover from the parking area to the
NEAR
base of the resort. The Canyons has one gondola, eight highspeed quads, two triple chairs, two double chairs and a people mover, so covering all the terrain in one day is nearly impossible. With tons of choices for onmountain dining (Smokie’s Smokehouse, Sun Lodge and Red Pine Lodge to name a few), you have all the amenities you’ll ever need at the Canyons. If you didn’t bring your own gear, need
RED PINE CHUTES a lesson or want to do some light shopping, it’s all here on the mountain or in the base area. The top of the “Ninety Nine 90 Lift” has the area’s highest elevation, at 9,990 feet. Groomers, trees, bumps, steeps, slow rollers, open glades, gullies, backcountry exit points and terrain parks it’s all here. Lift lines and crowds are hard to find at a ski area as spread out as the Canyons. The snow was so good that
Kevin Parker/Clayton Pioneer
we literally skied through lunch, carving fresh turns until our legs burned and we noticed the “perma-grin” which can be found at ski resorts all over the world, especially on a powder day. As the day came to a close and the resort transformed into apres ski mode, drinks and laughs were had by all as we reminisced about the great day on the slopes. After that fresh powder, it
was hard to imagine topping our first day at the Canyons. But as coffee and breakfast erased the haze of a foggy mind and a tired body the next morning, I glanced outside and it became obvious this was not going to be just another ski trip. The resort had received another 8 to 10 inches to start off day two of our trip. The decision was made to spend yet another day at the Canyons, and it did not disappoint. More laughs, more deep powder, more time spent with good friends and fresh mountain air. I am happy to report that every day we tore up the fresh stuff and every morning (count them – four in a row) we awoke to fresh powder. It was a skier’s dream the culmination of good friends and good times spent reenergizing the mind, body and soul. For some, it is about the powder. For others, it’s time with friends. But it’s always about the Ski Trip. So whether you take my advice and travel to some distant ski area or hop in the car for a day trip, the same goal is attained: doing what you truly love with great friends and great powder. For more information, visit www.thecanyons.com or www.canyonsports.com. For more information on this hike or other outdoor experiences, contact me at hikershaven@sbcglobal.net.
The Canyons, Utah zTrailhead: The Canyons Ski Area (near Park City, Utah) zTravel Time: 2.0 hours (by plane) zPowder Factor: The Greatest Snow on Earth zTrip Tip: Get cheap lift tickets @ Canyon Sports in SLC
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rom the city to the country, the East Bay Area is a place full of surprises. Just ask longtime resident and local real estate professional, Lynne French. For her, it provides the ideal setting for some of her favorite hobbies, which include golf, hiking, jogging and horseback riding. “I discover something new here every day,” Lynne says. “That’s why I take such great pride and joy in helping others make the most of their real estate opportunities in the East Bay Area.” With her straightforward determination and in-depth knowledge
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
Clayton Sports
CV Falcons Cheerleaders win national title
Photo courtesy of Don Stone
THE 2006 FALCONS IN THE FINAL FORMATION OF THEIR WINNING NATIONALS PERFORMANCE. They are (in no particular order) Charlotte Owen, Hayley-Susanne Rodemsky, Tabatha Ostolaza, Becky Schiff, Madeline Day, Kayla Radatz, Michele Huffaker, Vanessa Joslin, Madeline McCarthy, Alexa York, Meagan King, Vanessa Rivera, Stephanie Arredondo, Amanda Schiff, Kassidy Pedrani, Amber Huggins, Rachel Siver, Lauryn Wilson, Tracie Kreiss, Brianna Carter and Julia Morgan.
DON STONE Special to the Pioneer
The Clayton Valley Athletic Association youth cheerleaders earned their third national championship at the JAMZ Cheer Nationals in Las Vegas. The JAMZ Nationals, held at the Orleans Arena, have become the largest youth cheerleading competition in the industry. The Clayton Valley Falcons competed in the Youth III Performance Cheer (nonmount) division against nine other teams. The Falcons dazzled the large crowd with a highenergy routine, which head coach Betty Stone called “the best performance cheer I’ve ever seen.” “Just being able to qualify for the JAMZ Nationals is an accomplishment in itself,” says
Stone. “To go to Vegas and win it all is absolutely incredible.” As the most traditional style of cheerleading, the performance cheer (non-mount) division doesn’t have music or aerial stunts. Therefore, the cheerleading fundamentals of sharp motions, loud voices, tight formations and precise, fast-paced choreography are highlighted. This type of cheerleading has become a specialty of the Falcons. The team also earned national JAMZ titles in 2002 and 2004. Keeping with tradition, the entire squad and coaching staff rushed the stage after being announced the winners again this year. They were all jumping, shouting, squealing, hugging and crying as they accepted their individual medals and a giant trophy that was just about as tall as them.
The coveted, embroidered JAMZ National Champion jacket is normally first presented to the head coach. This year, however, the Falcons draped it over the shoulders of junior coach Megan Stone. Stone, the head coach’s daughter, wrote, choreographed and taught every word, motion and formation of the winning routine. Backstage after the awards, each squad member was fitted with her own national champion jacket. Due to conference regulations, the cheerleaders cannot
use the Clayton Valley Falcons name in post-season, so they competed as the Diablo Valley Falcons. The 21 members of the team range in age from 9 to 14, including representatives from all four regular season Falcon cheer squads. The Falcons are unusual among highly competitive teams in that they are not “all stars,” nor are there tryouts for the nationals team. The 2006 Falcons also has a wide age range, with the youngest Jr. Peewee and Peewee division cheerleaders performing along-
side the older Jr. Midget and Midget divisions. This was the first year of cheerleading for 10 of the team members, and they were able to quickly learn how to get along and work together as a team. Betty Stone and assistant coach Terry Day give a lot of credit to the teen coaching staff, all former Falcon cheerleaders. They are Clayton Valley High School cheerleaders Lindsay Guttry, Allison Volga and Stone, along with Concord High School cheerleader Kelsey Murphree. The coaches also
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With the last issue, the Pioneer staff said farewell to Sports Editor Jim Zewan. Jim has been faithfully covering the Clayton sports scene since joining the staff in April 2004. Other committments now dictate that he “free up some time.” We thank Jim for his contribution and wish him well. So, we are looking for a new sports editor. This is a paid position requiring approximately 10-15 hours per issue (twice a month.) It requires writing one major feature and one or two shorter stories as well as organizing, compiling and editing the pieces sent in by our readers, which include the Sports Shorts. Successful candidate will be thoroughly plugged in to the Clayton area sports scene, preferably be a Clayton resident and will have good writing skills. A computer and a high comfort level with email and Word are necessary. If you are interested, send a cover letter with your qualifications and a writing sample (a couple of paragraphs is fine) to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Put Sports Editor in the subject line.
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thank team moms Cynthia Carter and Paula Schiff and team dad Don Stone. The all-volunteer Falcons nationals team was formed last November. At the first nationals practice, the coach gave the team a choice: Do you want to go to Las Vegas to have fun, or do you want to have fun and be champions? Without hesitation, the girls decided they were going for nothing less than a championship. The many practices that followed sometimes lasted longer than six hours and included more than a few bumps, bruises and strains.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Clayton Sports Taylor Hunziker
TAYLOR HUNZIKER team placed first in the Level 8 Team Competition and first place all-around in every age division in which they had a competitor. “Taylor is the gymnast we place last in the order when competing on beam,” said Terri Nuno, one of Taylor’s two coaches. “She can think very quickly in the middle of her routine without being shaken up by it. For example, if she feels she has left out a specific element in her routine she will quickly add another skill to be sure her score does not suffer. This takes nerves of steel and also quick thinking,” said Nuno. “Taylor’s quality as a champion is her ability to be a champion with grace,” adds her
other coach, Andrea Finkbeiner. “She is always gracious, encouraging to her teammates and modest when receiving her much deserved reward. She is a wonderful role model for our younger gymnasts and for her fellow teammates.” Next month, Taylor will compete both individually and with her team in the Level 8 State Championships in Sacramento. If her scores are high enough in Sacramento, she will go on to the Level 8 USAG Region One Championships in Fullerton in April. Taylor, a seventh grader at St. Agnes School in Concord, trains for 20 hours a week. Her mom drops her off at Liberty Gymnastics in Concord right after school where she does her homework before starting practice. Does she have her eye on an eventual spot on the U.S. Olympic Team? “Maybe, I don’t really know,” she says. “I just like gymnastics. It’s really fun.” Her dad, Fred Hunziker, owner of Liberty Gymnastics where Taylor trains, is little more pragmatic. “Only six girls in the whole country make the Olympic team,” he said. “We have to be realistic. I think she looks at gymnastics more from the collegiate standpoint.” Gymnastics are not the only sport Taylor likes. In the summer, when not in training for gymnastics, she plays tennis and swims.
The Clayton Pioneer spotlights a local youth athlete from our circulation area in the second issue each month. If you are a coach or an administrator and would like to nominate a young person (under 20 years of age) for the Rocco’s Athlete Spotlight, please send information to sports@claytonpioneer.com or fax to 672-6580. Nomination deadline for our Mar. 24 issue is Sunday, Mar. 12.
It’s time for Black Pearl Super Y-League tryouts Tryouts have been scheduled for the 2006 Diablo Valley Soccer Club’s Black Pearl under 13 through under 19 Super Y-League teams. They will be Feb. 26 at Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill. Boys and girls in Contra Costa, Alameda and Solano counties born between Aug. 1, 1986, and July 31,
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Favorite Subject: Math Favorite Athlete: Carly Patterson. “She’s good all around and she looks like she’s having fun.” Favorite Music: Hip Hop and R&B
PIONEER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT This month’s Athlete Spotlight shines on Taylor Hunziker, a 12-year-old gymnast from Clayton. Taylor, who started in gymnastics when she was five, began training seriously when she was 7 and by age 8 had achieved a competitive level of 5 on a 10 level scale. She currently competes at Level 8. Last month, Taylor competed at the Kay Canedy Seattle Sports Festival All American Invitational meet in Seattle and placed second in the All Around Competition where she was competing against girls several years older. Gymnasts in the All Around are judged on their skill on the vault, the beam, the uneven bars and their floor exercise. It was a good meet for Taylor. Not only did she do well in individual competition, her
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
Clayton Sports Jr. Eagles play in first tourney
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Front—Evan Langlois, Brian Hutfleiss, Kevin Adams, Derrick Bizicki, Jordan Burger, Sean Flannery. Back—Assistant Coach Ron Burger, Solomon Cazares, Peter Stoiber, Drew Crider, Jeff Doran, Coby Blumberg, Lucas Arteaga, Pitching Coach Carlos Bryson, Andrew Deichler, Head Coach Dave Deichler
RANDI HAGEN Special to the Pioneer
The Clayton Valley Junior Eagles under-13 baseball team debuted in its inaugural tourna-
ment last weekend at the Walnut Creek AAA Pony Tournament sanctioned by USSSA (United States Specialty Sports Association) held at Heather Farms Park and Northgate High
School. The 12-team field came from Pleasanton, Lafayette, Piedmont, Orinda, Danville and host Walnut Creek. These new Junior Eagles took third place with a 3-2
record in a competitive venue with five of the teams being in the under-14 group. Head coach Dave Deichler was pleased with
See Eagles, page B5
Fusion takes charge at Nor Cal tourney STACY BOSCHETTI Special to the Pioneer
The Diablo Valley Soccer Club’s Black 94 Fusion U11 (under 11 years) girls won the Silver division of the Nor-Cal Premier Soccer League on Feb. 4 and 5 in Clovis. Girls from Clayton, Concord, Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Fairfield, Walnut Creek
and Danville play on the DVSC’s Fusion. Paula Campos and Jack Boeger coach the team. Twenty-four teams began play in December, with games taking place all over Northern California. On Jan. 7, the Fusion trekked to Clovis, playing the Davis Legacy and California Odyssey. They won their bracket outright and moved on to the
semifinals and finals. On Feb. 4, DVSC defeated the Mt. Diablo Soccer League’s Arsenal in a hard-fought game. Daniela Garcia, Nikki Alvarez and Brittani Pygeorge provided strong defense, with midfield support from Reina Stephenson, Alisa Aliano, Samantha Boeger and Jessi Walsh. Goalkeeper Megan Elms only needed to make one save in
Top Row: Paula Campos, coach, Tyler Cunningham, Ashly Dickinson, Mikayla Little, Simone Miranda, Daniela Garcia, Michelle LaFaille, Nicolle Boschetti, Jack Boeger. Middle Row: Emily Mikes, Brittany Pygeorge, Elisa Aliano, Nikki Alvarez, Maddy Kelly, Yasenia Cruz. Front Row: Samantha Boeger, Jessi Walsh
the 3-0 win. DVSC had 14 shots on goal, led by Simone Miranda with six. Nicolle Boschetti, Ashly Dickinson and Daniela Garcia scored, with assists from Tyler Cunningham and Garcia. Mikayla Little and Yasenia Cruz also contributed to the victory. On Feb. 5, DVSC faced a very aggressive Almaden Valley team for the championship. The DVSC had nine shots on goal in the 2-1 victory. Once again, goalkeeper Elms did a superb job with seven saves. The defensive team of Garcia, Alvarez and Pygeorge held the opposition in check. Forward Dickinson scored two beautiful goals, with assists from Boschetti and Garcia. Maddy Kelly, Aliano, Stephenson, Cruz and Little also helped control the center of the field. Almaden Valley scored a goal late in the second half, but the DVSC defense held solid for the win and championship. On Feb. 11, the girls traveled to Morgan Hill for the round of 16 for the State Cup Championships. They beat South Valley United 2-1 in double overtime. Next, the girls travel to Sacramento for the round of 8.
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Clayton Sports
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The “swing zone” refers to the area extending several feet behind to several feet beyond the golf ball. It is in this zone that the stored-up power of the hands is released. Concentrating on delivering a smooth, flowing swing through this area will help produce accuracy as well as distance. To feel your full power potential, try to direct the climax of the club to accelerate through rather that at the ball. Living in Oakhurst, the Honey Bear and I can watch golfers tee-off from a hole near our backyard. I notice that when they practice their swings, it
looks perfect smooth and fluid. But when they set up over the ball and swing, it’s like Jekyll and Hyde. For some, the results of their tee-shot is like goose poop on a white hen. That’s because they are swinging at an object, instead of through it. That ball hypnotizes many of us. When it’s not visual, we “swing through,” but when it’s there, we swing at it. Occasionally while practicing, I’ll set up over the ball, close my eyes and swing “through” to a full balance finish. The feeling and resulting ball flight is amazing. Some years ago, I had the
Eagles, from page B4 his fresh squad’s whole team effort. Clayton Valley won its opener Friday night against the Walnut Creek Bulldawgs, 11-4. On Saturday, Deichler’s squad played hard but ran into a wellseasoned veteran Pleasanton under-14 team, keeping it close through five but going down 52 in the usual seven inning game. With a no-quit attitude and strong defensive play, the Eagles bounced back on Sunday morning with another big win over the Danville Reds, 7-1. The offense was super-charged all weekend by hitters Jordan Burger, Peter Stoiber, Andrew Deichler, Sean Flannery, Jeff Doran, Evan Langlois and Kevin Adams.
The Sunday morning victory launched Clayton Valley into pool play against an experienced, already 20-game tempered, under-14 team from Walnut Creek in early afternoon. It was a character builder for the new Eagles, losing 14-0. Then, a mere 45 minutes later, after a long, warm afternoon, they found themselves facing yet another under-14 team in the consolation bracket. Coach Deichler expects an entire team effort each and every time his team takes the field with an increase in growth and development. This team showed its true mettle against the Lafayette Generals Sunday night. All weekend long, pitching was superb by Burger,
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privilege of instructing at a school for the blind. Once the students felt in their mind and body the five moving parts of the golf swing, they were like poetry in motion. One of those moving parts is the left leg. Try not to let it stiffen before or during impact. When this happens, your left shoulder lifts up too quickly, causing a thin or topped shot. Better players have the knack of “swinging through” the ball with the club head traveling at ball level for a relatively long time. This is one of the sources for greater power and straighter shots. Remember, don’t let the left Stoiber, Doran, Solomon Cazares, and Drew Crider. This final nip and tuck game was no exception. Defense had been key as well to Eagle success with outstanding plays made by Burger, Stoiber, Flannery, Doran, Adams, Langlois, and Deichler. In this final game, Langlois, with a “sports-center highlight” catch in center field quashed a Lafayette two-out rally in the fifth inning. His phenomenal play energized the Eagles to a five-run breakout in the bottom of the fifth. Stealing and bunting is coach’s middle name. Players Brian Hutfleiss and Derek Bizicki made things happen on this inaugural weekend. Despite a Lafayette threerun seventh inning threat, Clayton Valley hung on for an exciting 9-7 victory and third
DAVE GRAY GRAY ON GOLF leg straighten until you near the finish of your “followthrough.” If you want lower scores, but insist on swinging at, instead of through, just skip the last two holes. Hey, it worked for W.C. Fields. Dave Gray is a teaching professional at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. E-mail your questions or comments to him at sports@claytonpioneer.com
place in this warm-up pony tournament. Coach Deichler has a twoyear vision for his new Eagle team preparing these players for high school ball and in the process having fun and excelling in what they do. Deichler is assisted by Rob Burger and pitching coach Carlos Bryson. The Eagles next USSSA tournament is Feb. 25 and 26 in Sacramento. The Junior Eagles Baseball Club is a non-profit organization of multiple teams with athletes ranging in age from 11-14 from the surrounding areas of Concord, Clayton, Walnut Creek and Pittsburg. The Junior Eagles compete in approximately 14 tournaments throughout California during the season, participating against both local and national level competition.
Solution for 2/10 Crossword
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., MAR. 1 FOR THE MAR. 10 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT THROUGH MAR. 7 Patty Cakes Story Time @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. Tuesdays. Story time for children up to three years old. Child attends with caregiver. No registration required. Meet in the Story Room. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. THROUGH MAR. 9 Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. Thursdays, for children three to five years old. Child may attend without caregiver. No registration required. Meet in the Story Room. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. THROUGH MARCH 15 Widow and Widower’s Support Group @ Pleasant HIll Hospice 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa offers a variety of support groups and workshops for people experiencing grief and loss after the death of a loved one. Group held at Hospice’s administrative office at 3470 Buskirk Avenue, Pleasant Hill, 887-5678. FEB. 17 - MAR. 25 She Loves Me @ CTA Crossroads Theatre Set in the sophisticated capital city of Budapest in the 1930’s, it recounts the lively romantic adventures of the staff of an elegant old-world perfumery. Two
MAR. 3-5 Creekside Arts Celebration @ Clayton Community Library Fri. March 3 from 5 - p.m., artists preview, Sat. March 4 from 10 a.m. - 6p.m. and Sun. March 5 from 1 - 5 p.m. Free entertainment, visit the library's native plant garden, art demonstrations and sales, non-profit eco groups including Native Bird Connections, Friends of Mt. Diablo Creek and Earth Team. Sponsored by the Clayton Library Foundation. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, 673-0659. MAR. 7 Seminar on Purchasing and Refinancing Real Estate @ Walnut Creek Marriott 6 - 9 a.m. The California Association of Mortgage Brokers (CAMB) is sponsoring the free seminar. A panel of industry experts will discuss the important things you should know when considering a real estate transaction. For more information call 510-547-4114, Walnut Creek Marriott 2355 N. Main Street, Walnut Creek. MAR. 8 Pajama Time Stories @ Clayton Community Library 7 p.m. Beary Fun Stories and Crafts. Wear your snugly jammies if you want and don’t forget to bring along your favorite bedtime stuffed animal for stories, crafts and family fun. Registration required. Meet in the Story Room. 6730659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. MAR. 12 Flock of Flutes Concert @ Shadelands Auditorium, Walnut Creek 3 p.m. A program of Civic Arts Education (CAE), Flock of Flutes offers a unique opportunity to hear a variety of flutes combining in innovative musical styles. The concert opens with a mass flute choir - over 50 flutes all playing at one time. Civic Arts Education, 111 N. Wiget lane, Walnut Creek , CA Tickets are $7, call (925) 943-5842for information. MAR. 9, 10 Aladdin Jr. @ Mt. Diablo Elementary 7 p.m. Mt. Diablo Elementary chorus students’ production directed by Christine Billingsley with all original Disney music. $3 donation accepted. Community welcome. Mt. Diablo Elementary Multi-use Room, 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton.
co-workers bicker incessantly, unaware that they are anonymous penpals known only to each other in their secret correspondence as “Dear Friend.” She Loves Me is a musical masterpiece in miniature, as endearing and relevant as ever in this age of internet romance. CTA Crossroads Theatre, 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek, 944-0597, www.ctacrossroads.org. THROUGH MAR. 18 My Fair Lady @ Dean Lesher Region Center for the Arts Diablo Light Opera Company (DLOC) production of the classic Lerner-Loewe Broadway hit featuring award-winning veteran actors and newcomer Angelique Lucia as Eliza Doolittle. Performances on Feb. 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, Mar. 2,3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16, 18 at 8 p.m., Feb. 19, 26, Mar. 4, 5,18 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 - $36, on sale at 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek or call 943-7469, or www.dlrca.org. FEB. 24, 25 Junior Theatre’s Production of The Magic of Mrs. Piggle Wiggle She's Mary Poppins, Aunte Mame, and Professor McGonagall all rolled into one and she's coming to Walnut Creek. Young people, who fell in love with Mrs. Piggle Wiggle through Betty MacDonald's classic stories now have the opportunity to enjoy their favorite heroine in a delightful musical written by Chad Henry and performed by the talented youngsters of Junior Theatre. Performances Feb. 24 at 9:20 a.m. and Feb. 25 at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets are $11 adult, $8 senior/child, $7 for 2 p.m. performance. Call 943-SHOW. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Road, Walnut Creek. FEB. 26 Clayton Club Chili Cook-Off @ Clayton Club Saloon First prize is $500, second prize is $250, third prize is $100. Entry fee is $10 (sign up with bartender). For more information call 673-0440Clayton Club Saloon, 6096 Main Street, Clayton. FEB. 28 Young Artists Symphony Orchestra @ Dean Lesher Regional Center 8 p.m. Mid Winter Concert "Cowboys and Matadors" featuring Hoedown Aaron Copland; Cowboys Overture - John Williams; Carmen Suites 1 & 2 Georges Bizet, and others. Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $7.00 for students. Contact ticket office (925) 943-7469. MAR. 2 Buchanan Field Airport Master Plan Meeting @ Crowne Plaza Hotel 7 p.m. Kick-off meeting for the Master Plan Noise Study Component. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord, CA. For More Information: Call Beth Lee, Airport Business and Development Manager, at (925) 646-5722 or visit our website: www.buchananfield-byronairports.org MAR. 2 Read Across America @ Clayton Community Library 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Join us in the Community Room for stories, games, craft activities and prizes to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss and the Read Across America program. All ages welcome. No registration required. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517.
Patty Flannery Realtor
Clayton Resident since 1979
MAR. 22 Readathon @ Clayton Community Library 7 p.m. Calling all Readers! Listen to the five picture books nominated for the 2005-2006 California Young Reader's Medal at our CYRM Readathon. Vote for your personal favorite! Recommended for children in Kindergarten - 2nd grade, but all ages welcome. Registration not required. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. MAR. 23 Dr. Seuss Preschool Story time and Craft @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. Join us for a story and a craft in honor of Dr. Seuss's birthday. For ages 3-5. No registration required. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. COMING IN SPRING Readers of The Urantia Book will start a new study group this spring. The meeting will be held in a downtown Clayton cafe. New readers are asked to join seasoned readers to explore the book's topics and to discuss the time/day to meet (weekly, bi-monthly or monthly). Email: Urantian@mac.com or call: (925) 672-4689 and ask for Tery.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS FEB. 25 AAUW Annual Education Luncheon @ Brookview Clubhouse Clayton and Concord Branches of the American Association of University Women will hold their annual Education Foundation Luncheon at the Brookview Mobile Home Park Clubhouse, 1201 Monument Blvd. Concord. The speaker is Susan Dennehy, a doctoral student on Jurisprudence and Social Policy, at the University of California. If you are planning to attend please contact Dee Totman (925) 672-6420 or Sandy Hansen, (925) 939-4951. FEB. 26, MAR. 5, 12 Concord Mystery Book Club @ Concord Library 2:30 - 4 p.m. All mystery readers are invited to participate and explore a different genre each month. Concord Library, 2900 Salvio Street, Concord, 6465455. FEB. 28, MAR. 7, 14, 21, 28 Kiwanis Club of Walnut Creek 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Meetings every Tues. All are invited to check us out and be our guest for lunch. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust St., Walnut Creek. for more information call Sam Totah, 941-1536. MAR. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau 10 a.m.and 5:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in and meeting on Thurs.. 800/326-8450 x 2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. MAR. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thurs. for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker. Feb. 16 is the Annual Valentine's Day breakfast. Members can bring their spouses/partners/sweethearts for a program that celebrates affection and romance. www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.
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MAR. 8 Clayton Valley Garden Club @ Diamond Terrace 7 p.m. The Clayton Garden Club meets the second Wednesday of the month at Diamond Terrace. We welcome anyone who enjoys gardening. Every meeting has an informative program concerning some aspect of gardening. We hope that you will join us. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center Street, Clayton. Call Jeff at 672-7579 or Barry at 827-9540 for information. MAR. 13 Clayton Valley 4-H club @ Farm Bureau Hall 7:10 p.m. 4-H is open to youth ages 5 - 19 and adults. Projects in small and large animals. Learn new skills including cooking, photography, arts/crafts etc. Opportunities in leadership, communty service, conferences, 4-H camp, fairs. Contact Candy Hogan at 925- 969-1325 for more information. Meetings held on the second Monday of the month Sept. - June. Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Rd. Concord. MAR. 14, 28 The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club @ Holy Cross Lutheran Church Coffee will be at 9:30 a.m. and the meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m. Regular monthly meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Anyone interested in joining the Woman’s Club, please call Shirley Boyd at 672-1163. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. Mar. 15 Ygnacio Valley Republican Women @ Oakhurst Country Club 10 a.m. social, 10:15 business, 11:15 a.m. speaker and lunch. $18 for lunch. You can hear the speaker without staying for lunch. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Drive, Clayton. MAR. 17 Knights of Columbus St Patrick's Day Dinner @ St. Bonaventure Church 6 - 9 p.m. The Knights of Columbus, Concord Council 6038 will hold their annual St. Patrick's Day dinner at St. Bonaventure Church Large Hall. Menu will be corned beef and cabbage, potatoes, salad, bread and dessert. Macaroni and cheese is available for the children. No host bar. Tickets are $10 for adults, $6 for children under 15 years. Irish dancers and music, raffle tickets available. Proceeds to benefit the Sisters of the Assumption, Nairobi, Kenya. For more information contact Pat DePlazes @ 685-0573 or Claire Tryon, at 673-8564 or email to greyeototo@sbcglobal.net. St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Rd, Concord. MAR. 22 Blue Star Mom Meeting in Concord 6:30 p.m. Small group Blue Star Mom meetings held the 4th Wednesday of each month. Blue Star Moms is a support and service group for those serving in all branches of the Armed Forces. 1792 Elmhurst Lane, Concord. Call 6763654 for information. MAR. 30 CBCA (Clayton Business & Community Association) Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, last non-holiday Thurs. of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. John Rubiales, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.
BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT FEB. 28, MAR. 7, 14, 21, 28 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tues. mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. MAR. 7, 21 Clayton City Council Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tues. of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at the following locations: City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, Ohm's Bulletin Board, 1028 Diablo St., Clayton, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton. FEB. 28, MAR. 14, 28 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd and 4th Tues. of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton.
SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION MAR. 2 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @Clayton Valley High School 7p.m. If you show your child that you care about their school, your child will care too. Together we can make a difference! The meeting will be held in the school library. Clayton Valley High School, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. MAR. 14 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Diablo View Middle School 9 a.m. Meeting to be held in the Community Room. All parents welcome. Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. MAR. 21 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Mt. Diablo Elementary 7:30 p.m., Multi Use Room. Make a difference in your child's education. For items to be included on the agenda, contact Stacey Wickware 673-1999, the5wicks@sbcglobal.net or Kristy Smith 673-1795, kristinsmith@yahoo.com, PFC Co-Presidents. Childcare is available. Watch website for details.! http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/mountdiabloelementary/.
February 24, 2006
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Teach your dog who’s in charge of food, toys
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Dog food guarding is a common problem. It’s an instinctive response for Rover, whose ancestors were forced to protect their food on a daily basis in order to survive in the wild. Dogs can become worried that their food and possessions might be taken away. Think back to when you brought your puppy home. Remember how he’d roam the house in search of fun toys, such as your new shoes. When you’d catch him chewing those $150 stilettos, you’d yell “No, drop it.” After repeated incidents, he would learn that you would quickly take away whatever exciting treasure he discovered. The problem with this is that Rover begins to view you as the “meanie” who takes away his fun. If not managed properly, a dog’s guarding response can escalate from growling to biting.
You must teach Rover that you are the giver of all things fun. While your dog is a member of the family, he must also understand that he is a member of the pack and you are the leader – the top dog. Rover should be placed on the “No Free Lunch Policy.” This teaches a dog that he has to work for everything he enjoys, including food, treats, attention and play time. This policy shows the dog that you “own” all items and will only give them to him when he obeys an obedience command. A dog should not have free access to his food, toys or even you. Have the dog sit and wait while you prepare his meal. Use this time for training, using different commands for a few pieces of kibble at a time, until the food is gone. If the dog refuses to do a
command, end the meal time and walk away. When you give your dog any attention, first ask for a command. Make sure that you initiate all play sessions and don’t leave his toys around when you are not there. Your dog will learn that you are the leader of the pack and you control his access to the items he enjoys. It’s also important to teach Rover a “drop it” command. Then if he gets a hold of something he is not supposed to have, you will be able to get it back. Start with a boring toy and then show him a favorite toy or treat. When he drops the first toy, make sure you reward Rover heavily. Keep practicing until the command is reliable. Rover will learn that if he is asked to drop something, he will be rewarded instead of being pun-
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ished by having his treasure taken away. Dogs love unconditionally and delight in pleasing their caregivers. Reward the behaviors you want repeated with generous praise and treats. Your best friend will repay you with love and loyalty, and you’ll both be winners. However, if your dog has serious food or resource guarding problems, you should consult a canine professional who can assess the situation and work directly with you to remedy this potentially dangerous situation. Elena Bicker is the general manager of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 296-3147
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
Lent is a season of preparation By William Kant, Pastor Eternal Life Lutheran Church The church season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 1 and runs for 40 days, up to the Saturday before Easter. If one is counting the days on a calendar, please note that Sundays during Lent are not considered part of Lent and therefore not included in the count of 40 days. (Some call the Sundays in Lent “little islands of refreshment.”) For many Christians, Lent is a solemn time of spiritual
preparation for Holy Week and Easter (this year Easter falls on April 16). It serves as a solemn journey to Christ’s cross and empty tomb. It is a time for Christians to fix their eyes on Jesus, who endured suffering and death on the cross for us, and rose victorious from the tomb on Easter. Although many Christians see Lent as a time for them to give up something, or to do something extra for the Lord, it really is a time for Christians to think about and rejoice in what Christ has done for us.
While the joy of faith in Christ remains undiminished throughout the year, the rejoicing during Lent is muted and quiet. For centuries, therefore, Christian churches have omitted their most jubilant songs during this season, including the word alleluia, which means, “praise the Lord.” On the last Sun. before Lent, Transfiguration Sun. (Feb. 26), Christians in many churches will say “farewell to alleluia” for a time. We do this to prepare ourselves for the quieter days of Lent. The
alleluias will return on Easter dawn as we gather to shout our praise to the risen Lord.
Church News CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH “Sundays at 9” class features discussion on Anne Rice’s book “Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt.” Women’s monthly Bible Study on Feb. 8 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. Youth Group Tues. 6:30 8 p.m., men’s discussion group Fri. at 8 - 9 a.m. Women’s Support Group every first and third Tues. at 7:30 p.m. Companions in Christ Mon. at 7 p.m. A concert by the Nevsky Vocal Ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be Sat. Mar. 4 at 7 p.m. They will also sing at the church service on Mar. 5. Preaching Schedule: Feb. 26 – Rev. Patricia Plymale, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton, 94517, 672-4848, www.cvpresby.org. NEVSKY VOCAL ENSEMBLE
BAHAI’IS OF CLAYTON The Baha’is of Clayton are extending an invitation to a talk and an evening of fellowship. The subject of the talk is “One human family – so many religions. Why?” The speaker is Mr. Rollin Winslow who currently teaches and facilitates seminars on Baha’i faith, Bible classes, parenting classes, life after death, and America in time of peril classes. The program starts at 7:30 p.m., Sat. Mar. 4 at the Toloui residence in Clayton. For more information and directions call (925) 672-6686. Everybody is welcome. CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH New Message Series started Feb. 12 “God is Closer Than You Think.” Have you ever been so close to someone you could feel the warmth of their breath or hear their heartbeat? What if you could be that close to God? The good news is that this intimate friendship with the Lord of the Universe is not only possible, but what he longs to share with you right now. Truth be told, God is closer than you think! We meet every Sunday at 9 and 10:45 a.m. at Diablo View Middle School in the Clayton Gym. CROSSROADS CHURCH Sign up today for the class “Making Children Mind Without Losing Yours.” How to bring out the best in your kids by doing what is best for them. Classes begin Apr. 2 and continue for six weeks, 11a.m. – 12 p.m. Register by calling 798-5905. Crossroads Church 5353 Concord Blvd. ETERNAL LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH Lenten Devotions begin Wednesday, Mar. 1. The Lenten series theme is “Seven Times He Spoke – Jesus’ Words from the Cross.” The services will be held each Wed. at 7:15 p.m. Soup suppers and fellowship will precede each service, beginning at 6 p.m. All are invited to join us at Eternal Life during Lent for the food, friendship and focus on Jesus. Eternal Life’s regular Sunday schedule is Sun. school and Bible study at 10 a.m.; worship at 11:15 a.m. Eternal Life Lutheran Church is located at 5554 Clayton Rd., Suite 1B, in Concord. Please call 524-0295, or visit the church website at www.EternalLifeLutheranChurch.org for more information. Eternal Life Lutheran Church, 5554 Clayton Rd., Suite 1B, Concord, 925524-0295. HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH On every fourth Sunday of the month, at noon, our congregation has an Outreach For the Homeless ministry at Concord’s Baldwin Park. We serve food and hand out clothing and various necessities. If you would like to donate to the ministry, please consider the list of items below: cup of soup, instant hot chocolate,
Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church 925-672-4848 1578 Kirker Pass Road Patricia Stout Plymale Senior Pastor Timothy J. Mooney Associate Pastor Raymond S. Campton Parish Associate Great Linda Regan Pastoral Leadership Pastor Emerita
tuna , hard boiled eggs , small sack snack items, small boxed juice, bottled water, candy, small packages of instant oatmeal /cereals , any type of foods that sticks to your ribs, socks, sweatshirts, toiletries (hotel size soap, shampoo), etc. Please bring items to church Monday through Thursday between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or call the church office ahead of time at 686-2000. Thank you.
SALVATION ARMY CHURCH All men and women of faith are invited to attend World Day of Prayer on Fri. Mar. 3 at the Salvation Army Church, 3950 Clayton Road, in Concord. Coffee and registration begin at 9:30 a.m. Program and prayer service will follow at 10 a.m. For more information and to reserve childcare, contact Lenita Shumaker, 925-6721053. ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY The Alcohol and Drug Recovery Ministry will have an information night on Tues. Feb. 28 at St. Bonaventure Church from 7 to 9 p.m. in the large hall. Presentation will include information on the 12-step program, or substance abuse, eating disorders, and the effects they have on the abuser as well as on family and friends. Refreshments will be served. Any questions call our Helpline at 925439-4420. St. Bonaventure Church, St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. The Men’s Spiritual Network of Saint Bonaventure Catholic Community in Concord is sponsoring a Lenten Men’s Retreat at San Damiano Retreat Center the weekend of Mar. 31 – Apr. 2. The retreat will be led by Fr. Kenan Osborne, OFM, Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology at the Franciscan School of Theology in Berkeley, and an internationally known writer, speaker and retreat master. Come meet other men from the Oakland Diocese as we begin our Lenten journey. For more information, point your browser to http://www.stbonaventure.net/msnretreat.shtml or call Matt Remington at (925) 672-4006, or Peter Nixon at (925) 363-5884. ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH Saint John’s celebrates Mardi Gras with a traditional Shrove Tuesday party on (when else?) Tues. Feb. 28 before the Lenten season of preparation for Easter begins with Ash Wednesday Mar. 1. Worship services at 7-7:45 a.m. and 7:30-8:30 p.m. As always, worship and all parish programs in Lent are open to the wider community. The forty days of Lent in the Christian faith are a traditional time of study and prayer, acts of charity and almsgiving. Saint John’s programs of adult faith formation will include several House Church courses. Two psychologists and a specialized financial advisor will present an examination of the relationship between spirituality and money. A book study of the New York Times bestseller, Abraham, A Journey to the Heart of Three Faiths, will explore the contemporary significance of the shared ancestor of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. A third course introduces inquiries to the Episcopal Church and Anglican tradition of sacrament, interpretation of scripture, and basic tenets of Christian belief. During the Lenten season, parish children and youth will be collecting donations in our community to benefit other children and families being served by medical Outreach Clinics of the Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. For a full description of this charitable work, or to make a donation, see the information link on the church’s Website. Looking ahead, Saint John’s will again be preparing a week of suppers at the Concord family homeless shelter during the month of March. Also in March Saint John’s will host a community-wide, one-hour Vigil for Peace for all people of good will (candlelight, song and prayer, no speeches) on Saturday, Mar. 18, 7:30 p.m. in observance of the third anniversary of the conflict in Iraq. Interested community members can contact the church, or find more information online: www.saintjohnsparish.org.
What’s happening in your house of worship? Start a new ministry or outreach program? New classes? New pastor? Membership drive? Send your news of general interest to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com. Join us Wednesdays, for Soup Supper & Fellowship at 6pm Lenten Evening Devotion at 7:15pm
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February 24, 2006
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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If you want a special place to dine, you might want to stop by PASTA PRIMAVERA at the corner of Clayton Road and Treat Blvd. in Concord. We recently enjoyed lunch there and commented on just how charming the dining room is with the dark cherry wood chairs and tables and mirrored back wall. The relaxing ambiance is matched by a delectable menu that offers a variety of items from antipasti and salad to pasta, seafood chicken and veal. Our party of three each tried a different lunch entrée. The Linguine with garlic and mushrooms in virgin olive oil arrived at our table piping hot and smelling absolutely deli-
WHETHER YOU DINE INSIDE OR AL FRESCO at Rocco’s Ristorante and Pizzeria, one of your favorite Italian dishes is sure to be on the menu. cious. It was the personal favorite of our lunch partner and that was plain to see…every last noodle was devoured. Jill had the blackened salmon and Caesar salad. The salmon was mouthwatering and the salad fresh and crisp with just the right amount of dressing. The soup that accompanied the salad was cream of broccoli…perfect texture and very tasty. Another favorite was the seafood salad featuring shrimp and scallops on a bed of spinach in a warm lemon Dijon sun-dried tomato dressing. For salad lovers who enjoy their salad as main course, this is for you. Prices are very reasonable which make Pasta Primavera a perfect choice for any occasion. Recently featured in Diablo Magazine’s “At The Table” section, LA VERANDA CAFE received raved reviews from restaurant reporter Melissa Swanson. La Veranda serves a Northern Italian menu of pasta, pizza, chicken, veal and fish starting at $8.50
Ope n at 11 a.m ., 7 days a week
Banquet Rooms Patio Dining
Rocco’s New Sports Bar NOW Open 12 Flat Screens, 16 Draft Beers, Watch all the games
Team Parties
Locally owned by Rocco Biale & family
Full Bar Available Corporate Catering
2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd. at Oak Grove Rd. in Walnut Creek (925) 947-6105 • Fax (925) 947-6106 www.roccospizzeria.com
for Bruchetta with olive oil, fresh tomatoes, garlic and basil. Pasta dishes range from $9 for Penne All’arrabiata to $11.75 for Spaghettini Frutti di Mare. “...make no mistake;” said Swanson, “this is no spaghetti and red sauce throwback. The quality of La Veranda’s food sets it apart.” If you haven’t yet had brunch at La Veranda, you are missing a real treat. The menu includes all the popular breakfast choices, Eggs Benedict and Florentine, omlettes and pancakes. A new twist on the tried and true Joe’s Special will leave you begging for more. All are served with potatoes, toast and fresh fruit. This popular spot is a perfect place for a lovely, quiet Sunday morning brunch where you are likely to run into friends and neighbors. La Veranda opens on Sunday at 10 a.m. and is open daily for lunch and dinner. A little more on the casual side and a great place to take the kids is
IRS rules clarify ways to reduce the gain on the sale of your residence TOM MILLER, CPA
TAX TIPS
The Internal Revenue Service has several rules that allow homeowners to reduce the gain on the sale or exchange of their homes. Section 121(a) and (b) allows them to exclude up to $250,000 of the gain on the sale or exchange of a home ($500,000 for certain joint returns) if they (1) owned and used the property as a principal residence for at least two of the previous five years ending on the sale or exchange date and (2) have not used the exclusion in the past two years.
However, if a taxpayer is unable to meet these strict requirements at the time of sale or exchange, the IRS will allow for a reduced exclusion provided certain “safe harbors” rules are met. A taxpayer may qualify for a reduced maximum exclusion if the sale of exchange of residence was due to a change in employment, health or unforeseen circumstances. Under regulations section 1.121-3(c)(1) and (2), a sale or exchange by reason of a change in place of employment (defined in regulation) occurs when the taxpayer owns and uses the property as a principal residence and the taxpayer’s new job is at least 50 miles away
Indulge yourse lf
from the previous residence. If a taxpayer does not have an employer and, thereby, no former place of employment, the distance between the taxpayer’s new job and the residence sold or exchanged must be at least 50 miles. Under regulations section 1.121-3(d), a sale or exchange by reason of health (general health and well-being does not qualify) occurs when under a physician’s recommendation the qualified individual (defined in regulation) sells or exchanges a residence to obtain, provide or facilitate in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation or treatment of disease, illness or injury. The regulation also provides for a move to obtain or provide medical or
personal care for a qualified individual suffering from a disease, illness or injury. Regulations section 1.1213(e) allows a reduced exclusion if the primary reason for the sale or exchange is the occurrence of unforeseen circumstances. One key requirement to qualify for this exception is that the circumstances which gave rise to the sale or exchange of the residence must not have been reasonably foreseeable when the taxpayer began using the property as a personal residence. Unforeseen circumstances would be events such as death, change or cessation of employment resulting in a taxpayer’s inability to pay housing costs,
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involuntary conversion of the residence, natural or man-made disasters or acts of war and terrorism resulting in a casualty of the residence. Regulations section 1.1213(e)(2) lists specific-event safe harbors that must occur while the taxpayer owned and used the residence. The reduced gain exclusion has certain requirements that the taxpayer must meet. A taxpayer should seek the advice of a CPA to ensure that his specific circumstances qualify for the reduced exclusion. Tom Miller is a CPA who provides professional tax services in Clayton. He can be reached at 3541385 or tac.light@gmail.com.
ROCCO’S RISTORANTE at 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek. Voted the best pizza in the Bay Area by a Contra Costa Times Reader Poll, Rocco’s serves up a killer house specialty. The Dominator, piled high with pepperoni, salami, mushrooms, ham, linguica, sausage and onions, is not for the faint of heart. At $19.97, this large pizza will feed a small army. Rocco’s also has several choices of classic Italian pasta, homemade minestrone and several salads. All pasta dishes are served with fresh bread. Top your pasta dinner off with a glass of wine and you’re well fed and satisfied for well under $20 (tax and tip included.) Rocco’s opens every day at 11 a.m. And if watching your favorite sporting event on a big screen TV with a beer or glass or wine, then tell all your friends to meet you at ROCCO’S NEW SPORTS BAR. With 12 big flat screen TV’s and 16 kinds of draft beer, sports fans might just think they’ve found heaven. See you at Rocco’s.
Just for Laughs Knock Knock. Who’s there? Amazon! Amazon who? Amazon of a gun! Knock Knock. Who’s there? Amin! Amin who? Amin thing to do! Knock Knock. Who’s there? Ammonia! Ammonia who? Ammonia little kid! Knock Knock.Who’s there? Lion! Lion who? Lion down on the job again! Knock Knock. Who’s there? Lionel! Lionel who? Lionel bite you if you put your head in its mouth!
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
February 24, 2006
While you sip, contemplate the beauty of green tea PAM BARNETT
TEA
FOR YOU
As I sit and sip my tea in the morning, it warms my hand, my mouth, my heart and my spirit. Having tea is a calming way to start the day, visit with friends or relax during times of stress. It warms our heart by giving us an excuse to handle elegant objects silver, linen, china and the other lovely accoutrements that make us feel a little more civilized. More than 2,000 years ago, the Chinese recognized the need for this ritual we call “having tea.” Along with the social benefits, more than 200 medical uses for tea were recognized. It was a means of harmonizing body and spirit in the moment, a way to pause and reflect. Picture a woman’s fingers plucking the tender young shoots off the camellia sinensis, the
glossy-leafed evergreen that produces tea leaves. For every 10,000 or so shoots she plucks, a single pound of tea leaf is manufactured. Her day’s work will only produce about five pounds of tea. Tea is among the few things in life that the world’s privileged and some of the humblest workers on the planet have in common. Realizing this connection is one of the ways in which tea is beneficial. It does a person good to remember the women plucking leaves, even for an instant, with every pot or cup of tea one drinks. Tea is the only substance known in nature that both calms and stimulates the human system simultaneously. Its polyphenols, or flavonoids, make green tea one of the most powerful antioxidants known to man. Antioxidants neutralize molecules called free radicals, which damage cells and tissue over time. This damage is responsible for the aging process, as well as chronic diseases such as cancer. A single cup of green tea has as
CAMELLIA SINENSIS
much potency as a cup of blueberries, another great sources of antioxidants. Green teas like Gunpowder, Imperial, Gyokuro, Sencha and Matcha also contain relatively low levels of caffeine and tannins. Brewing a pot of green tea is different than the standard method for black tea. The ideal water temperature is between 170 and 185 degrees, compared to the 212 degree boiling water used for black. Green tea should only be steeped for one or two minutes and, unlike black, can
Say goodbye to Mom-inspired guilt As their mothers begin to age or pass away, many women find themselves feeling bad about all the things that went unsaid and are plagued with thoughts such as “Could I have done more to help her? Should I have offered more unconditional love, better care or made different decisions?” Those feelings of guilt bleed into other relationships and aspects of life, perhaps making you feel overly sensitive or overly responsible to the
point where you will do anything to make those around you happy. How can you escape the grasp of guilt and start savoring every moment to the max? “Guilt is a hefty emotion to deal with,” says Lisa R. Delman, author of “Dear Mom, I’ve Always Wanted You to Know: Daughters Share Letters from the Heart,” (Perigee Books, www.LisaDelman.com).“By never letting go of the blunders of yesterday, we remain stuck
in pain and can’t feel justified moving on.” Delman invited other women to write a letter to their mother (alive or deceased) and received over a thousand emotion-packed letters from women around the globe. Recognizing the universal transformative power of letter writing, Delman encourages those struggling with guilt to write a letter to their mother, whether she is alive or not. This exercise in writing helps release
be infused more than once. America’s consumption of green tea rose by 650 percent last year, as we continued to discover that it is good for our physical and mental health. Studies continue to show that as few as four cups of tea a day can have a positive effect on your health in a variety of ways. This amount will reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney stones and cancers. Growing evidence also suggests that tea reduces “bad” cholesterol levels and the risk of osteoporosis. Immune system blood cells of tea drinkers respond five times faster to germs than the blood cells of coffee drinkers. And you thought tea just tasted good. For more information, visit www.greentea.com. Pam Barnett was an English major in college and a teacher before becoming co-owner with Sally Englund of Englund’s Tea Cottage in the Clayton Station. Email her at Pammbarnett@aol.com the guilt and resolve hurts. To write your letter, find a quiet space and get comfortable. Think about the issues you’d like to resolve with your mom and what kind of relationship you’d like to have with her. Ponder the qualities you dislike about her as well as the ones you admire. Allow yourself plenty of time to write. While you can’t erase agonizing mistakes, you do deserve to forgive yourself and begin again. So begin your letter today. And start looking forward without feeling guilty about the past.
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Source: FeatureSource Editorial
“Look Who’s Selling Clayton!” HELP-U-SELL REAL ESTATE SERVICES 4918 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521 (925) 680-4950 650 d $36,6 Saved SOLD Selllerr
107 Jeffry Ranch Court
Clayton
We sold our home on 522 Mt. Davidson Ct. in Clayton & saved over $32,100 in real estate fees! Help-U-Sell was very professional and thorough in the handling of our home. We would highly recommend using them to all our friends and if need be we would use them again. A. Medrano
We sold and purchased our home with Help-U-Sell and we were very impressed with the expertise and the professionalism of our agent. HelpU-Sell will be the only way we go in the future. B. Cutkomp
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ership! Pride of Own
3592 Cranbrook Way
Concord
$549,000
! autifful Home! Bea
2278 La Mar Court
Concord
$659,000
Home d-H modelled ous Rem Gorgeo
5760 Tamarack Way
Clayton
$1,500,000
4 Bedrooms & 3 Baths, approx 2150 sq ft. Desirable cul-de-sac location! Spacious formal dining room with high vaulted ceilings, family room with granite faced wood burning fireplace, and bonus room addition done with permits. Bright kitchen with tile counters, oven, stove, dishwasher, breakfast bar, white cabinets, pantry, separate eating area, wet bar and recessed lighting. Convenient inside laundry room and monitored alarm system!
3 Bedroom & 2 Bath , approx. 1134 sq ft. Beautiful new inlaid hardwood floors throughout. Has new interior paint and colonial baseboard trim. Remodeled/Enlarged kitchen with euro-look lights, laminate cabinets, new tile, gas range and 2 selfcleaning ovens. Upgraded master bath with ceramic tile and double bowl vanity. Beautiful wood burning fireplace! 6200 sq ft lot with wide side yard access and electrical hookups for RV. New exterior paint, decorator front door, dual pane windows and garage door with auto opener.
4 Bedroom & 2 Bath , approx. 2241 sq ft. Premium corner lot! Custom decorator tile throughout, plush upgraded neutral carpet, dramatic 9 ft vaulted ceilings. Energy efficient, gas water heater and gas fireplace in family room. Convenient inside laundry w/ tile floors, oak cabinets & access to garage. Finished 3 car garage with auto door opener. Separate eating area with sliding door and gourmet kitchen that features; center island/ breakfast bar, tile counters, oak cabinets and self cleaning oven!
5 Bedrooms and 3.5 Baths, approx 3,839 sq. ft. Views! Views! Views! Everything in this home is changing, all new kitchen, lighting, floors, doors, baths, stairs and landscaping. You name it the seller did it and don't forget the views!
Home!! Lovelly Town
use! ous Town Ho Spacio
! eighborhood Wonderrful N
d Likke New! Remodelled
1454 Wharton Way #F
Concord
$379,000
1681 Alvarado Ave. #16
$473,500
Walnut Creek
1344 Vermont Ave.
Concord
$599,995
5071 Bonwell Drive
Concord
$595,000
2 Bedrooms & 1 Bath approx. 899 sq ft. Large wraparound balcony with views of Newhall open space! New microwave, new dishwasher, refrigerator & built-in oak cabinets. Convenient inside laundry and one car attached garage with one space. Community pool and green belt area!
3 Bedrooms & 1.5 Baths approx 1200 sq ft. Attached townhome with beautiful landscaping and community pool. New neutral carpet and freshly painted throughout! One car carport and guest parking. Two private patios with sliders. Just minutes from BART downtown shopping, interstate 680 and HWY 24!
4 Bedrooms & 2 Baths, approx. 1360 sq ft. Completely remodeled, everything is new! New windows and roof. Freshly painted inside and out. Beautiful fireplace and custom tile work. Walking distance to schools, and close to shopping and Mt. Diablo!
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,234 sq ft. Owner wishes to carry the first trust deed. Below market terms, fixed rate, quick and easy to qualify. Low or no down possible. Large lot with separate out building, great for storage or workshop.
550 d $20,5 Saved SOLD Selllerr
gance!! Countrry Eleg
650 d $19,6 Saved SOLD Selllerr
! Lovelly Home!
2578 Hamilton Ave.
Concord
$485,000
4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1265 sq ft. Great fixer!! Large flat lot is approximately .13 acres, Family room features a brick wood burning fireplace and sliding glass doors that lead to a private rear yard. Two car attached garage with washer and dryer hook-ups. Close to bart, freeway access, shopping and walking path!
1613 El Campo Drive
Concord
$685,000
4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1649 sq ft. Updated kitchen and bathroom, dual pane windows throughout! New french doors with 4 openings. Refrigerator included with newer appliances. Recessed lighting in kitchen and halls. Hard wired ADT Security System. In ground pool with aqua jet vacuum, yard fully landscaped with automatic sprinklers, front, back and sides.
2626 Crescent Drive
Concord
$440,000
2 Bedrooms & 1 Bath approx 842 sq ft. Lovely home with newly remodeled eat-in kitchen! Light and bright family room with ceiling fan, hardwood floors throughout, tile in kitchen and bath & dual pane windows. Nicely landscaped yard with area for garden & patio with overhang!
3641 Clayton Road #17
Concord
$330,000
2 Bedrooms & 2 Baths, approx 1088 sq ft. There is all new carpet, vinyl flooring and new paint on the inside. There is a large patio from the living area to the master bedroom. Unit has 1 covered and 1 uncovered assigned parking space. Unit has a community pool and home owner dues of $275 a month. There is an inside laundry and ample storage space!
You Could Save $27,050! By selling your home with Help-U-Sell instead of with brokers who charge a 6% commission* (the savings are based on a home selling for $600,000).You can select from many fine real estate professionals.Why not choose one that will also save you money when you sell? *Commissions are negotiable and not set by law.
visit us online at
helpusell.com
You’re Paying How Much To Sell Your Home?
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