IT’S YOUR PAPER
www.claytonpioneer.com
Jim DiAz
MAYOR’S CORNER
January 13, 2017
925.672.0500
Community fundraisers aim to renovate MDES playfield
Coming in 2017
In my initial Mayor’s Column, I wish to thank you for your past support and look forward to 2017 as a promising year for Clayton. The City Council – Vice Mayor Keith Haydon, Julie Pierce, David Shuey and new member Tuija Catalano – sees a bright future for the Clayton community. Economic development efforts continue downtown, with the proposal for a mixeduse retail, commercial and senior living facility with Pacific Union Land Investors of San Ramon. Our commercial broker, Transwestern, reports several new inquiries about Main Street property as well as the permitentitled mixed-use project slated for Oak Street properties. The city remains sound financially with the leadership of city manager Gary Napper and the Finance Department under Kevin Mizuno. After closing fiscal year 2016, city management reported that all departments operated under budget last year. The General Fund experienced excess revenues over budget of $204,902 (3.6 percent), which aids in stabilizing the city’s budget and its reserves. Sustaining our mission to have the best conditioned streets in the Bay Area, the City Council awarded a $556,204 competitively bid contract on Dec. 6 to resurface arterial roadways of Clayton Road, Oakhurst Boulevard and Marsh Creek Road to the east side of Diablo Parkway. Bids were so favorable that budgeted money remains to shortly resurface Clayton’s portion of Pine Hollow Road by yet another bid project. Expect that work to commence in spring 2017. It will include resurfacing the portion of the private Oak Street paid for by adjacent property owners through special assessments. After completing a total redo of the landscape entryway to the Peacock Creek subdivision, the Maintenance Department will focus on renovating the raised planter boxes downtown and installing new irrigation systems and trees. Meanwhile, a segment of Keller Ridge Drive will receive new street trees to replace those that were lost or diseased. Our Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Chris Wenzel, continues to make Clayton one of the safest communities in the Bay Area. The department has specifically increased its enforcement presence and crime deterrence in the Clayton Station Shopping Center. Because of the cooperation and support of the center’s management and business owners, patrons will notice an improved environment for both residents and businesses. Send comments to the mayor at jdiaz@ci.clayton.ca.us.
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
FLUSH WITH FUNDRAISING SUCCESS FOR LAST SUMMER’S AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY RELAY FOR LIFE, volunteers have turned their attention to the playfields at mt. Diablo Elementary School. Pictured on the field at the historical monument marking Clayton’s first school, mDE teacher Debra Daubenspeck, Relay committee members Pat middendorf, Nancy Salmon, Debra Gonsalves, PFC members Erin Bennett, michele Hill and Holly Tillman. TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
The gophers that have been living rent-free under the Mt. Diablo Elementary School playing field for the last 30 years better start looking for a new place to live. The fundraising group that raised over $140,000 for the Clayton Relay for Life last year has turned its attention
to a full renovation of the playing field by 2018. “The field is dangerous,” says committee co-chair Nancy Salmon. “Between the lack of regular maintenance and watering over the years and the gopher population, the field just seems to worsen over time.” The idea first got legs when the Relay Committee began to question whether it
City bans outdoor pot cultivation TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
California voters may have passed Prop. 64 last November, legalizing the recreational use of marijuana, but don’t count on growing a stash in any Clayton backyard. Marijuana plants visible from public areas create an attractive nuisance for kids and invite crime, according to a staff report. In its first official act on Dec. 20, the newly reorganized Council passed an Emergency Ordinance prohibiting the outdoor cultivation of recreational marijuana. The Municipal Code already prohibited the outdoor cultivation of medical marijuana but
What’s Inside
Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Community Calendar . . . . .11 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 School News . . . . . . . . . . . .9
it was silent on recreational pot plants. With a vote of 4-0, Council members Tuija Catalano, Keith Haydon, David Shuey and Jim Diaz passed Urgency Ordinance 473 quickly with little discussion. Council member Julie Pierce was absent. Under Prop. 64, the Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA), an adult may possess up to 28.5 grams of pot and may grow up to six plants for their own recreational use. The Municipal Code allows for indoor cultivation medical marijuana. The Council will need to decide if and how it wants to regulate indoor cultivation for recreational use. It could require permits or registration, inspections and code enforcement. Or, it could opt not to regulate indoor cultivation at all. Cities can regulate the indoor use, but not ban it.
See Pot, page 2
was wise to raise so much money from a small community only to send it outside that community. The Relay for Life was held on the playing field in 2015 and 2016. Committee members recalled how hard it was to work around the rough spots and gopher holes for the two-day event, and the renovation project quickly began to take form. They met with school principal Dawn Edwards and MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Nellie Meyer. Field renova-
tion was not on anyone’s radar, said Edwards, and there are no District funds available for the project. But both Edwards and Meyer are fully behind the community effort. The District will support the project with staff time, expertise and materials, says Meyer. “Most elementary students lack enough physical movement and time for play,” she said in a letter supporting the project. “It is our hope that this project will open up a new space to run, have
organized games and beautify the campus.” Plans for the new field are still in the very early stages, but the committee’s vision includes artificial turf and a resurfaced track. Cost estimates vary between $300,000 and $700,000; depending on how much of the work can be done by volunteers and how fast the committee can raise the money. Last year’s Relay fundraisers include the resurrection
See Playfield, page 2
What goes up, must come down
Tamara Steiner
CBCA committee members took advantage of a break in the rain Jan. 2 to take down the community holiday decorations with help from Emile Jenkins from Diablo Valley Ranch. Volunteers from DVR regularly help set up and tear down for concerts, Art and Wine, Oktoberfest and other events. The downtown decorations are provided by the Clayton Business and Community Association. For more information and a membership application, go to claytoncbca.org or call 925.672.2272.
Postal Customer ECRWSS
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Club News
Trains set excitement in motion at Clayton Museum in December Connor and Logan Waterman are the lucky winners of the electric train set raffled off by the Clayton Museum in December. Their mom, Amy, purchased the winning ticket just an hour before it was drawn by JoAnn Caspar, outgoing president of the Clayton Historical Society (CHS). Jim Anthony, owner of Just Trains in Concord, donated the HO scale Athearn, Santa Fe Warbonnet – valued at $209. With 120 tickets sold, the raffle raised $196 for CHS. The raffle was in conjunction with the museum exhibit “The Bay Point and Clayton Railroad Co. and Cowell PortShannon Seven land Cement Co. Railroad – Logan, left, and Connor Wa- Rolling Through the Clayton terman won the train set in Valley, 110 Years after Incorthe Clayton museum raffle. poration.” On Dec. 20, CHS director
Nicole Hackett, left, and Roy Alarcon of R & m Pool received the Certificate of Commendation from Jan Rubiales of the Clayton Valley Garden Club.
The Clayton Valley Garden Club recently awarded two Certificates of Commendation from the California Garden Clubs, Inc. to local
Playfield, from page 1
of the historic and very popular Clayton Round-Up, a BBQ, dance and silent auction held at Easley Ranch on Marsh Creek Rd. More than 500 attended that event. The Round-Up will be back again this summer along with a host of other fundraising efforts throughout the year. Half of all funds raised will go toward the playfield project and half will go to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Salmon co-chairs the committee with Pat Middendorf, Michele Hill and Debra Gonsalves, all seasoned vol-
michele Pryor
Kathy Flagstead, (left) Hillcrest Congregational Church, received over $900 in layette items donated to the church by the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club. Connie Weimar, (right) president of the CVWC presented the items collected at the holiday luncheon on Dec. 13 at Oakhurst Country Club.
Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell since 1979
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George Vujnovich,
unteers from Relay for Life and other civic activities. The MDES Playfield Project’s first fundraiser is this Friday, Jan. 13 at Oakhurst Country Club from 6-10 p.m. A host of local restaurants will present “a Taste of Mt. Diablo” wine, beer and food tasting. Tickets are $75 and available at the door. To donate to the effort or to help on the committee, email Salmon at fishsal@pacbell.net. More information is on the group’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/MDESPlayfieldProject.
businesses. The Clayton Children’s Center was thanked for the donation of their old shade structure. It provides shade for the club as they pot
(925) 672-4433 cell: (925) 348-5700 georgevujnovich@sbcglobal.net
www.georgevujnovich.com
plants in preparation for their annual spring plant sale. R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Gardens was recognized for their support over the years. R & M donates plants for door prizes at monthly meetings and offers members a discount on plants. Each year, R & M sponsors and helps the club construct a float for the July 4 parade and hosts several club events. Nicole Hackett, R & M’s Garden Girl, provides educational lectures on landscaping using plants suited to local conditions and answers questions from members and guests. The Clayton Valley Garden Club meets the second Wednesday of the month, February through November, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. For more information, go to www.claytonvalleygardenclub.org
Pot, from page 1
The law does allow cities to ban outdoor cultivation altogether. Going forward, Clayton must decide what to do about commercial activities within the city — cultivation, sales and distribution. It may be prudent to delay any action on commercial regulation said City Attorney Mala Subramanian in her report. Commercial activity must be licensed by the state which won’t be issuing permits until January 2019. Clayton may be wise in waiting to see how the other cities are handling this issue.
“For example,” she says, “If Concord allows commercial retail sales, this could negatively impact Clayton…but the City will not be privy to any of the associated revenue.” Perhaps the most volatile hot button issue will be regulating where people can light up. AUMA prohibits smoking (or ingesting) marijuana in “some” public places, but it doesn’t define “public place.” Clayton’s Municipal Code has a smoking ordinance, but the City will need to decide if it wants to amend the Code to specifically include marijuana use.
1152 Peacock Creek Dr. – Clayton
28 Ohlone Lane – Clayton
Meticulous “Belvedere” Model in Peacock Creek at Oakhurst Country Club! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3911sf & rare 4 car garage & desirable downstairs bedroom & full bath!
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Clayton Valley Garden Club Awards Commendations
and current exhibit coordinator Steve Lane talked about the exhibit to more than a dozen U.S. Army military and civilian personnel at Military Ocean Terminal Concord (MOTCO). Lt. Col. Jimmy Wiley was impressed after seeing the museum exhibit, and invited Lane to discuss the exhibit with his fellow MOTCO personnel. After the presentation, nine MOTCO personnel carpooled to Clayton and received a brief personal tour of the museum and the exhibit. It was a special day for all in attendance. The railroad exhibit and “100 Years of the National Park Service” have been extended through Sunday, Jan. 29, due to popular demand. Come see what the buzz is all about.
Clayton Valley Woman’s Club
January 13, 2017
$809,000
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Clayton Market Update provided by Better Homes Realty
homesbydianehayes.com ADDRESS
PRICE
250 Bigelow St . . . . . . . . . . . $885,500 3065 Windmill Canyon Dr . . $682,000 1342 Yosemite Cir . . . . . . . . $619,000 501 Hamburg Cir . . . . . . . . . $749,980 1824 Ohlone Heights . . . . . . $876,000 5008 Keller Ridge Dr . . . . . . $649,000
5255 Crystyl Ranch Dr.–Concord
Spacious Executive Home! On a prime view lot with sweeping views overlooking hills and city! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths approx. 3211sf! Desirable downstairs bedroom with full bath! Gourmet kitchen adjoins family room! $905,000
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Rarely available Diablo Village! Walk to town! 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, approx. 2172sf & attached 2 car garage. Peaceful court setting, backs to open space! $725,000
SF
. . . . .2325 . . . . .1835 . . . . .1449 . . . . .2030 . . . . .2313 . . . . .1710
BED/BATH SALE DATE ADDRESS
. . . . . .4/2.5 . . . .12/15/16 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . .12/15/16 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . .12/14/16 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . .12/12/16 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . .12/12/16 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .12/9/16
Super Single Story “Augusta” model backing to open space! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1835sf. Open living & dining room. Kitchen feature solid surface counters, tile floors & maple cabinets! Adjoining family room features a cozy fireplace and custom built media center. Spacious master with updated master bath $682,000
1138 Peacock Creek Dr. – Clayton
Rare “Baccarat” model in Peacock Creek at Oakhurst Country Club! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3530sf & 3 car garage!
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5605 Ohman Place . . . . . . . $750,000 703 Reisling Ct. . . . . . . . . . . $750,000 26 Weatherly Drive. . . . . . . . $675,000 539 Mt. Dell Dr . . . . . . . . . . . $549,000 68 Nottingham . . . . . . . . . . . $740,000 109 Mt. Trinity Ct . . . . . . . . . $954,000
$1,064,000
SF
. . . . .2398 . . . . .2081 . . . . .2032 . . . . .1423 . . . . .2260 . . . . .2691
BED/BATH SALE DATE
. . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .12/8/16 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .12/6/16 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .12/5/16 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .12/2/16 . . . . . .5/2.5 . . . . .12/2/16 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . .11/30/16
January 13, 2017
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Superintendent reviews MDUSD progress
NELLIE MEYER, PHD
JOHN T. MILLER Correspondent
After three years at the helm of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District, Nellie Meyer points to successes with graduation rates, college acceptances and community communication. Meyer attributes today’s 85 percent graduation rate to the addition of counselors, recovery labs that give students a second or third
Clayton
opportunities to pass a class and the reinstatement of summer school. “We have brought back 50 counselors and developed ongoing monthly training for them,” she says. “We’ve also improved graduation rates, and the number of students who apply to universities and colleges.” Another goal has been to increase communication. “With community meetings and a speaker series, we’re on
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an upward trend,” she reports. “Employees and communities are working better together.” Her achievements at one of the Bay Area’s largest school district come as no surprise. Her previous assignment was deputy superintendent of K-12 programs with San Diego Unified, the second largest district in the state and nearly four times as big as MDUSD. Meyer began here in August 2013, after spending her entire career in San Diego. She taught middle and high school social science, history, algebra and English language learners before becoming a vice principal, then principal at Clairemont High School. “I spent practically my whole life in the San Diego district,” says Meyer, who attended San Diego schools from kindergarten to high school graduation. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree in administration and a doctorate in education – all from San Diego State. Meyer says there’s much that she misses in San Diego, but “this opportunity allowed my family to move from one beautiful place to another.” Meyer’s mother and father were teachers, as is her husband, Marty, who is now semi-retired. Their daughter Georgia plays water polo and lacrosse at College Park High School in Pleasant Hill, and their son James is a junior at UC Irvine. Her experience with the diversity of San Diego helped her understand the challenges of educating second language learners. According to
Concord
$498,000
Live Oak — Priced to sell 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath duet with no rear neighbors. High volume ceilings, fresh paint, dual pane windows and plantation shutters. 1,614 square feet with formal dining area & inside laundry. Fenced backyard with patio. Desirable court location. This one wont last!
MDUSD communications specialist Ursula Leimbach, there are more than 50 different home languages in the district. Second language students make up about a quarter of the population. “Our goal is to have 100 percent of our ELs graduate
on time, with the proficiency needed to succeed in postgraduate endeavors,” Leimbach says. For Meyer, other goals include “continuing to increase student achievement, spotlighting positive things going on so others can replicate
DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market
making them more beneficial for the skin than cow fat. Delta Moon also uses goat milk, which is fantastic for sensitive skin because it makes the pH of the soap closer to our skin’s natural pH. Additionally, it provides alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins that are perfect for everyone – but especially nice for older skin. And, handmade soap retains the naturally occurring glycerin that is much gentler on the skin. “We make all of our soap in the centuries old cold-process method,” she says. “It takes a little longer to make but is so worth the wait and mild enough to use on your face.” The ideas for her aromatic natural soaps come from feedback from her customers, or sometimes even from having a meal out. Her Ginger Lime Goat Milk Soap and the Lime with Avocado Oil are inspired by dinner at a local Mexican restaurant. She loves that her customers say what they’re looking for so she can make a product that is beneficial to them. Other customer favorites
If you need a little spa time after the holidays, look no farther than the Delta Moon Soapworks booth at the Concord Farmers Market every Tuesday. Carla Brooks, an artisan soap maker from Antioch, sells handmade soaps for gentle and beneficial skin care. When her three boys were young, she noticed how drying and harsh commercial soaps were. She was shocked to find all the chemicals that were added to mass-produced soaps, everything from cow fat (sodium tallowate) to sulfates, parabens and other unpronounceable inclusions. She decided she could make something much less harsh and easier on the skin. “We like to think we would have been right at home in the 18th century, when craftspeople were revered and took pride in creating quality products by hand,” Brooks notes. She uses olive oil and coconut oil in all the soaps,
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$549,000
Diablo Creek — Investors special! Desirable single story home in quiet neighborhood. Light and bright with dual pane windows and soaring ceilings. Built in 1996 this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home boasts over 1500 square feet. Great location near shopping and schools
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$399,000
Springvale — Charming single story home with open floor plan and vaulted ceilings. Spacious living room with fireplace, kitchen with granite counters and updated master bath. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths with RV Parking and views of hills from backyard.
Lynne & Kelly offer free staging on ALL LISTINGS
$485,000
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Clayton
$799,000
Southbrook — Beautifully remodeled home with custom finishes. Stunning 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath with views of the hills. Entertainers paradise with private backyard, newer deck, large sparkling pool with 2 waterfalls, optic color lighting and hot tub. Michelle Gittleman, (925) 768-0352 MichelleGittleman.com Cal BRE# 01745325
include the Almond Oatmeal Goat Milk Soap and the Lavender Citrus Soap. Delta Moon also features lip balms, soothing lotion bars, pretty soy candles and gift sets. Be good to your skin this winter and all year long with these skin-loving soaps. For more information, visit deltamoonsoap.com.
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Garin Ranch — Entertainers delight in sought-after neighborhood. 3-Bedrooms plus loft/office and 2.5 bathrooms. Approx 2480 square feet with gas burning fireplace. Huge back and side yards, walk to downtown.
Find Delta moon soaps at the Concord Farmer’s market in Todos Santos Plaza.
$529,000
Clayton Valley Highlands — Totally remodeled rancher in great neighborhood. Fresh paint, new carpet, remodeled kitchen and baths. Over 1k sq ft including 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms. Great opportunity for first time buyers.
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See Meyer, page 8
Delta Moon Soapworks lathers up a gentle alternative
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them, and improving the environments on our campuses.” With $38 million remaining on the existing bond for facility improvements, the district is prioritizing schools’ needs. “When you come to a
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Concord
$515,000
Farm Bureau — Charming farmhouse with a country feel. Lovely front porch, sunroom entry, living room w/ fireplace & formal dining. 2 beds down, master suite up! Eat-in kitchen, attic & basement, French doors & hardwoods. Large lot with green house & garden station, amazing garden, and patio Heather Gray (925) 765-3822 RealEstatebyHeather.com Cal BRE#01329100
Assisting More Buyers & Sellers Than Anyone Else* *Statistics based on Clayton/Concord and Contra Costa County Closed sales by volume (1/2014-12/31/2014). Data by Maxebrdi
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- Windermere Clayton!
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
January 13, 2017
Organize to optimize space, but also for fun JENNiFER LEiSCHER
DESIGN & DÉCOR
At the beginning of every new year, I find myself eagerly scanning online blogs, design magazines, and any other source of interior design jour-
nalism that is reporting or forecasting the trends for the new year. The new, amazingly chic paint color for 2017, a style of furniture or accessory that should be included in every household, a brilliant new tile layout for a master bathroom, or a newly designed light bulb that makes us all look 10-15 years younger while saving money on our energy bill. Trends like paint and furniture, and even the magical light bulb, definitely come and go as styles and trends change from year to year, but the one design topic that comes around like
Nothing says “luxury” like a well-design, closet. Whether it’s custom drawers or shoe shelving, make every inch count.
www.LeighKlockHomes.com
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NEW I L STING
Beautiful single-level 4-bedroom 2-bath Dana Hills home with updates throughout: granite counters, stainless steel appliances, pendant and recessed lighting, hardwood floors, and updated bathrooms! Private yard, lush landscaping, patio and courtyard. Possible RV parking. Walk to historic downtown Clayton. Offered at $719,000 www.179MtVernonDr.com
SOLD
Premium view lot Clayton Rancher with Mt Diablo State Park as your backyard! 3 bed, 2 bath home boasts amazing curb appeal. Offered at $679,999 www.15ElMolinoDrive.com
clockwork is the discussion of organization. Many home decor sources discuss organization, especially how to store your holiday accoutrements. It’s easy to understand why this is an important focus. You’ve spent so much time collecting, preserving, and maybe newly purchasing holiday decor, you want to make sure your investments and keepsakes continue to sparkle year after year. Bins and boxes can be found at just about every big box store to take care of all your storage needs. Storing your holiday treasures in plastic bins in your garage or attic is hardly a design feat, so how does organization tie into design? Two words…fancy closets. From showrooms that provide custom closet designs to big box stores that provide modular options, there’s nothing quite like a fancy closet to store your belongings. The key to any closet design, aside from a stylish decor, is utilizing each and every square inch and making sure your belongings are easily accessible. Leave no corner blind, take advantage of the height of your closet with shelves, and consciously create specialty nooks for the items that you need to store. If you have several hat boxes, create a shelf that can accommodate the depth of your boxes. If you own more shoes than clothing, create a storage system that keeps your shoes organized and in plain sight. And if you have several ties, enough to circle the globe at least once around, work with a closet designer to create a system that keeps these silk
This beautifully updated Dana Hills home with ideal end of court location boasts a desirable floor plan with 5 bedrooms and 3 baths, including one full bath and bedroom on first level. This home also offers a fabulous oversized lot with Mt. Diablo views, detached office/bonus room, and 3 car garage. Offered at $850,000 www.11MtEdenPlace.com
SOLD
Leigh Klock, Realtor
Turn Key 4 bed, 2.5 bath, 2106 sq ft home in Bay Point. Chef's kitchen with granite, spa-inspired master bath updated 2015. Offered at $469,000 www.1034SaintRaphaelDr.com
Senior Real Estate Specialist Accredited Staging Professional CalBRE# 01874255
Leigh@LeighKlock.com Call me for details about my Walnut Creek 2-bedroom condo for rent
Oakhurst Country Club
Celebrate winter with a new membership at one of the area's best country clubs. Membership Includes:
• Access to our beautiful clubhouse with amenities such as a fully stocked pro shop with special member pricing • Formal and casual dining and a private members' lounge • Yearlong calendar of social activities, dining events, and golf & tennis tournaments • Access to our Junior Olympic-sized swimming pool and state-of-the-art fitness center and childcare facilities.
Contact us today to take a private tour of the club and join us for lunch, on us.
Call Susie at (925) 672-9737, ext. 205 or email ssutton@oakhurstcc.com. 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton
www.oakhurstcc.com
Look for specific storage solutions for your holiday decorations. Find bins and boxes in most big stores.
accessories neatly hung. For example, a master closet vs. a child’s closet. In a master closet, you would typically have several long and short hanging spaces for different types of clothing, sev-
KAREN miTCHOFF
COUNTY
SUPERVISOR
As we head into the new year, I wanted to inform people about a change in the car seat law. Starting Jan. 1, children less than 2 must be rearfacing unless they weigh 40 pounds or more or are 40 inches tall or more. Most children will outgrow an infant seat before age 1. The next step is a convertible car seat. According to medical professionals, the heads of young children are heavier, and their necks and spinal cords are not fully developed. In an accident, young children facing forward have a 75 percent
eral racks for shoes, and shelves, low and high, for folded items. Yet, in a child’s closet, there might be a little hanging space, but to keep things functional and easy to access, drawers and hooks
make life a little easier, and organized. And what does the fancy closet look like? Consider Aluminum wire mesh drawers and shelves with rustic wooden pulls while an industrial looking ceiling mount fixture illuminates the space. Maybe clear coated Cedar shelving and flooring, with an ivory shag rug and a linen drum shade chandelier hovering above. Or maybe, a closet system made of Pine, painted white, with colorful red hooks and knobs and a perforated ceiling mounted star fixture that shines polka dots below. Ahh, the fancy closet. There’s certainly no limit to the decor or functional options. Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.
New car seat law effective Jan. 1 greater chance of injuring their spines or even breaking their necks in an impact. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children ride rear-facing to the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat manufacturer. The current law states that children less than age 8 must be buckled into a car seat or booster in the back seat. Children age 8 or older, or who are 4-foot 9 or taller, may use the vehicle seat belt if it fits properly with the lap belt low on the hips, touching the upper thighs, and the shoulder belt crossing the center of the chest. If children are not tall enough for proper belt fit, they must ride in a booster or car seat. Everyone in the car must be properly buckled. For each child under 16 who is not
properly secured, parents (if in the car) or drivers can be fined more than $500 and get a point on their driving record. Buckling up is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself and your passengers in a crash. It is important to make sure all children riding in your car are properly secured before every trip. Please help me spread the word about this new change in law. If you need assistance on how to properly secure a child in a safety seat or if you think you need a car seat installation check, contact the local CHP office at 925-646-4980 and ask to speak with a child passenger safety technician.
Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to karen.mitchoff@bos.cccounty.us
Resolve to protect yourself from cyber crime in 2017 Cyber crime is a huge criminal activity, with an annual take of more than a trillion dollars worldwide. And you can bet it’s happening right here to you or your neighbor. Last year, I talked with seven people in Clayton and Concord who were swindled out of an average of $7,000 each. No one is exempt from the threat, and only a few are protected with managed antivirus, anti-malware with cyber security. Due to the sophistication and resources of the criminals, standard retail anti-virus and anti-malware are not enough protection any longer. Many computers only have anti-virus installed, and users are ignoring or don’t know about anti-malware or cyber security. Retail versions of anti-virus simply are being outclassed by the professional criminal’s intent to hack into your PC or network. If you know how to install, update and eliminate threats, you’re ahead of most users. According to the Ohio Department of Justice, a couple from Romania are charged with criminal conspiracy for creating and distributing malware by claiming to be a telegram from Western Union, an update notice
WiLL CLANEy
TECH TALK
from Norton Antivirus or the IRS trying to collect taxes. After the malware was surreptitiously installed, it spread to the user’s friends by harvesting the email address. They took more than $4 million from bank accounts. This is just one of more than 35,000 bad companies, and gobs more individual hackers trying to attack you. “The defendants were also able to inject fake pages into legitimate websites, such as eBay, to make victims believe they were receiving and following instructions from legitimate websites, when they were actually following the instructions of the defendants,” the DOJ reported. “When victims with infected computers visited websites such as Facebook, PayPal, eBay or others, the
defendants would intercept the request and redirect the computer to a nearly identical website they had created. The defendants would then steal account credentials, (i.e. login user name and passwords),” the DOJ said. “They used the stolen credit card information to fund their criminal infrastructure, including renting server space, registering domain names using fictitious identities and paying for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which further concealed their identities.” If you are a victim of cyber crime, file a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov/default.aspx. To avoid being hacked, seek out a managed cyber crime specialist known as an MSP, Managed Service Provider, who will monitor suspicious activity and kill it. CUSA-Care Security, promoted by local experts at ComputersUSA, has a superb record protecting customers against cyber criminals with its MSP offering. William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.
January 13, 2017
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 5
Winter brings out the elusive salamanders of Mt. Diablo
miKE mARCHiANO
MOUNTAIN MIKE
With the return of the winter rains in Contra Costa County, the foothills and Mt. Diablo are once again emerald green. The rain has brought some early winter wildflowers, beautiful blooms of currants, Manzanita and other chaparral plants as well as a plethora of mushrooms. The revitalization of the creeks and ponds benefits the local amphibians: frogs, toads and salamanders. Mt. Diablo is the home to a great biodiversity, including four species of salamanders. Because they must stay moist and cool to survive, salamanders stay deep underground for eight to nine months when it is dry and hot. In winter, they come to the surface to feed and procreate. These elusive creatures are rarely seen because of their nocturnal habits and their affinity for hiding in burrows and under logs, rocks and other objects. After a rainstorm, they may surprise us in our yards if we move an object to find one of these harmless creatures taking temporary refuge. All salamanders are beneficial because they eat small pests, including snails, slugs, termites, beetles and other
mike marchiano
The arboreal salamander is a slow-moving ground dweller.
arthropods. Along with frogs, they are also the first line of defense indicating problems in the environment. Because they breathe through their skin and some breed in water, they are like the canary in the coalmine – warning us when toxins affect the environment. Our most common species is the California slender salamander, sometimes called a worm salamander because of its slender body and tiny short legs. These brown, tan or reddish-brown salamanders come to the surface after the first rains in late autumn. The females lay eggs in damp, protected locations. It is not uncommon for the females to lay eggs together in a nursery and stay in the area to protect them from predators. While the arboreal salamander’s name implies it likes to climb, it actually is a ground dweller. These winter creatures look like lizards without scales, and they are very slow moving. This salamander has been known to lay eggs in damp tree holes as well as in underground burrows. We also see the reddish orange, yellow-eyed Ensatina on Mt. Diablo. This salamander is unique to the East Bay, although seven other sub-
We specialize in educating you to improve and maintain your wellness
species are found throughout the state. The last species found occasionally on the mountain and other parts of the county is the endangered California tiger salamander. This beautiful black and yellow-blotched creature returns to the surface during heavy rains and migrates to local ponds and vernal pools to breed for a few weeks before returning underground. Like all amphibians, this salamander is threatened by habitat destruction and the loss of wetlands to development and agriculture. Pesticides and fertilizers that wash into the ground and water, the rise in acidity in rain, climate changes and clear-cutting of forest lands have all resulted in the reduction of amphibians. Salamanders, toads and frogs are some of the most vulnerable animals. Humans need to be good stewards and protect them, along with the greater environment in which they live. It is our world to save, protect and, therefore, enjoy.
• We boast one of the most comprehensive supplement departments in Northern California. • Our vast bulk foods section includes over 700 items — nuts, grains, spices, herbs, and more.
Mike Marchiano is a naturalist with the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association. Contact him at mmarchiano@gmail.com
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Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
San Francisco housing market on fast track
CLAYTON FURNITURE INC.
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REAL ANSWERS Q: Other than if one is super rich and price doesn’t matter, give me one reason that anyone would want to buy in San Francisco at today’s high prices. A: According to Bankrate.com, San Francisco is the best city in the country for wealth building. This is based on factors such as home ownership and debt burden. Homeownership is one of the most reliable paths to wealth, but accumulating it is easier in some areas than others. I was surprised at the diversity of Bankrate’s list. No. 2 is Minneapolis, 3 is Washington, D.C., 4 is St. Louis, Mo., and 5 is Detroit. “Different metro areas affect household abilities to amass wealth in different ways,” says Bankrate.com analyst Claes Bell. “In some metro areas, like San Francisco, homeownership can be prohibitively expensive, but higher than average salaries can help residents stash more money away in tax-advantaged retirement accounts. On the other hand, Minneapolis-area residents don’t earn as much, but
Your Home Here WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS
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A few days after Christmas, I was concerned about having enough covering for my outdoor plants to protect them from a hard freeze during the first week of 2017. Weather models showed a mass of frigid air headed south into California, with lows in the 20s forecast for the Bay Area. As it turned out, the models changed their tune by New Year’s Eve. The revised forecast included a series of storms for the Bay Area, but minimum temperatures would be 15 to 20 degrees warmer than originally anticipated. The change was due to shifts in jet stream wind currents over the Central Pacific, which forced a shift in the jet
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the area’s affordable housing and recovering real estate market provide opportunities to build wealth over the long term through home equity.”
Q: I am ready to start the process of buying a home. How do I pick an agent to represent me? A: Since a transaction of this nature will certainly be among your most significant financial commitments, you need to choose the agent who is best suited to handle your specific desires. It pays to partner with the best real estate professional available. You should find an agent with a proven track record. They should work full time in real estate. Check to see who is selling real estate in the area you are looking. Look for a Realtor who seems comfortable and experienced. You can interview more than one to get a feel for whether your personalities mesh. Ask for referrals and call them with tough questions if necessary. House hunters should look for agents who are serious about the business. Q: I am having a hard time finding the perfect property to buy. With a low inventory, how can I improve my chances?
A: It is just the beginning of the year. Many people have plans to sell but were waiting until after the holidays. So more inventory will come on the market. If you are using a local specialist, they can get new listing information to you quickly through networking with other local Realtors. When you find the right property, they can advise you what to offer if you find yourself in competition. Be sure you and your Realtor agree on what you want. If your wish list is too restrictive, you might have to compromise one thing in order to get another. For instance, you might want a three-car garage but a home in a better location might have a two-car garage. The broader your options, the
more listings you’ll see. And the less frustrated you will feel. Suggest that your Realtor look at homes that were formerly on the market in an area you like. These are called expired and withdrawn listings. The property came off the market for one reason or another, but these homeowners might want to sell their homes now. Also let your colleagues and friends know what you desire in a home. They might have heard about someone who plans on selling. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
Healing the Heart Grief Ministry
if you or someone you know is grieving the death of a loved one, Healing the Heart grief companions would like to invite you to attend a grief workshop. Healing the Heart grief companions have also lost someone who is dear to them and know the value of having someone listen with their heart. The next workshop begins Jan. 24, 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Saint Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. There is no cost to attend the workshop; registration is required by Jan. 17. Please call Helene Billeci at 925.686.4870 for more information and to register.
Weather changes with shifts in the jet stream stream winds over the western United States. A jet stream is a band, or river, of strong winds in the upper levels of the troposphere – the lowest layer of earth’s atmosphere. The fastest winds in the jet are concentrated 6-10 miles above the surface of the earth. Jet streams form in boundary zones that divide warm and cold air masses. Due to the rotation of the earth, jet streams move west to east. That means California weather is largely affected by winds that cross the Pacific Ocean. Natural factors like the Coriolis force, curvature of the earth and temperature gradients between air masses cause jet streams to vary in strength and location. These forces also lead the jet to travel as a wave in the atmosphere. Wave amplitudes slowly increase and decrease as environmental factors change. There are two distinct jet stream currents above the Northern Hemisphere. The northern jet branch, called
the polar jet, is typically situated north of California – between 40 and 60N latitude. The subtropical jet is usually between 30 and 40N. The polar jet tends to move south during winter. Stormy weather is often associated with troughs in the jet stream waves. Our winter storms result when those troughs move across the Pacific toward the California coast. When a stationary high amplitude polar jet wave develops over the eastern Pacific, northerly winds may deliver a blast of cold dry polar air – often called an “Arctic Express” – to our state. Since temperature contrasts between air masses at southern latitudes are weaker than those separated by the polar jet, the subtropical jet is often weaker than its northern counterpart. Additionally, the wave pattern of the subtropical jet has less amplitude, resulting in longer wavelengths. Occasionally, a semi-stationary subtropical jet stream
Serving Northern California for Over 30 Years
wave trough forms in the Central Pacific. It provides a pathway for a steady stream of moisture-laden air to reach California and produce periods of heavy rain. This subtropical jet pattern is known as an “Atmospheric River,” but many of us are more familiar with the term “Pineapple Express.” In late December, initial weather models forecast a polar jet stream pattern that would send an Arctic Express to the Bay Area. When the subtropical jet began to develop an atmospheric river pattern in the Pacific, model predictions changed drastically. Forecasts of a hard freeze were replaced by predictions of storminess and potential flooding. Instead of protecting our plants, I’m clearing leaves from the storm drain – all because of changes in the jet stream. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist retired from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
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January 13, 2017
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Obituary P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517
TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor S TAFF W RITERS : Peggy Spear, Pamela Wiesendanger, Jay Bedecarré, Bev Britton
C ORRESPONDENTS : Kara Navolio, John T. Miller, Jennifer Leischer
We remember Jill Bedecarré
PIONEER INFO CONTACT US
Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 www.ClaytonPioneer.com
Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send School News to
schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have
priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters must be submitted via E-mail. CIRCULATION
Total circulation of the Clayton Pioneer is 5,500 to ZIP code 94517, all delivered by US Mail to homes and businesses. We cannot start or stop free delivery to individual addresses. This must be done directly through the Post Office. The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,500 in Concord by carrier. Papers are delivered once a month on a Friday morning near the end of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please call us or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon.
SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.
Mr. Fix-it Co. ALL FIELDS of SERVICE and REPAIR WORK
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Robert Dennis Gallagher
January 15, 1955 – December 20, 2016 Robert “Bob” Dennis Gallagher, longtime Clayton resident, died unexpectedly on Dec. 20, 2016. He was 61. Bob loved the area and all it provided. During his childhood, he and his friends hiked to Mount Zion and explored Mount Diablo. Bob lived an active life. He used sports to bring family and friends together. He enjoyed ping pong, bowling and swimming. Most every year, he coordinated a ping pong tournament and barbecue for his loved ones. Although he was a tough competitor, the goal was to have fun, eat good barbecue and most importantly, laugh. Bob had a long career in retail management. He decided to fully retire in 2014. In retirement, he found his love for pickleball. He played tournaments and weekly games with his friends at Martinez Pickleball. Bob was a wonderful husband and a very proud father. He was also an advocate for all animals and especially loved his pets. Bob was a strong, but gentle spirit who touched everyone with his sense of humor. Bob grew up going to San Francisco Giants games with his father. Later in life, he went to many San Jose Sharks games with his son. He attrib-
Page 7
Directory of Advertisers
Business Services
Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . 672-8717 Construction and Trades
Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . 672-2700
Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 457-5423 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144
Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .872-3049
Mr. Fix-it Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0347 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dining and Entertainment
Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440
Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737
uted the success of both teams to his fandom. When they were losing, he thought he should “suit up” to help. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Sally Gallagher, and his brother, Bill Gallagher. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Bambi Gallagher, daughter Bethany Garcia (Jonathan), son Sean Gallagher, sister Sarah Gallagher, brothers Frank Gallagher, Ross Gallagher (Lisa), brother- inlaw Mike Jessup and nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Funeral arrangements were private.
Please let our advertisers know you saw them in The Clayton Pioneer
Financial, Insurance and Legal Services
Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . .672-2300 Funerals
Oakmont Mortuary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-3311
Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Health and Wellness
Harvest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-2305
The Grove Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219-3939 Home and Garden
Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955
Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-5609 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243
Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334
Clayton Fair Properties For Lease
Concord – Commercial Offices Active business complex featuring a variety of commercial businesses. Well maintained with friendly atmosphere. Excellent location including ample parking. Contact Maureen (925)
685-0324
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The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Real Estate and Mortgage Services
Bennett, Nancy – Keller Williams . . . . . . . . . . .606-8400
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French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . .672-8787 Hayes, Diane – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .890-4701 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593
Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . .305-9099
Mazzei, Matt–Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757
Stojanovich, Jennifer–Better Homes Realty . . .567-6170 Vujnovich, George–Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness
Diablo FC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.diablofc.org
SNAP Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0110 Senior Services
All About Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .698-1867 Services, Other
ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029
Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . .682-4518 Travel
Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840
Self-Discipline
Do the Right Thing
Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Pets
Everything from home repair & maintenance to construction • EXTERIOR: painting, windows, doors, decks, outdoor structures. • INTERIOR: plumbing, drywall, electrical, trim, tile.
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ARF NOTES
Although puppy socialization classes are common (including here at ARF), training classes and playgroups for young kittens are rare. So if you’ve recently adopted a kitten, here are some tips to make
January 13, 2017
Socialize kitten now for a purr-fectly happy forever sure your kitten becomes a social, happy family pet. Early on, your kitten’s brave curiosity works to your advantage. His experiences at this stage give him the tools to learn how to interact with people and other animals and serve as an introduction to the sights and sounds he’ll experience in your home. Be sure to handle your kitten daily. Give him gentle pets
all over his body. Pay attention to his paws, pressing gently to exteriorize each nail. If you find sensitive spots, keep your handling brief and pair it with a tasty treat for a reward. Teaching him to enjoy this now will be helpful when you want to clip his claws or handle him later. Under your supervision, introduce your kitten to lots of different adults and children.
Cara and Hope are this month’s ARF stars
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It could be a virus, or it could just need a tune-up.
Two-year-old Cara is an athletic girl with stunning blue eyes who enjoys having a job to do. From going on long walks to agility, Cara would be a great exercise partner. She also loves to lean in for lots of pets once she gets to know you. The adoption fee for dogs is $250 and includes a discount on the first six-week session of a manners class.
She’ll roll over on her back for head scratches and purr up a storm. She’s looking forward to her forever home where she’ll be the center of attention. Hope has three legs, but that doesn’t slow her down one bit. She recently had the leg removed after it healing incorrectly. The adoption fee for a cat is $75.
HOPE
cue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday.
Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more inforElena Bicker is the Executive Director mation see our website, Two-year-old Hope is a Meet your forever friend at www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256- of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 256pretty and very sweet lady. Tony La Russa’s Animal Res- 1ARF. 1ARF (1273)
Meyer, from page 3
place that’s beautiful, you feel better. You feel uplifted,” says Meyer. The MDUSD superintendent acknowledges challenges such as teacher shortages, instability of funding and people’s perception of the district. “People need to see how far we’ve come,” she notes. “It’s a new culture with a new way of doing things. “There’s the perception we’re still doing business the
old way,” she adds. “Our customer service and service to our students have come a long way.” Meyer is impressed with how hard teachers and staff are working. “Teachers have embraced sharing ideas and learning about new technology, so students can use them as tools to learn,” she says. Michael McAlister, in his third year as principal of Northgate High, praises
Meyer’s leadership. “It’s rare you find a professional who can have a vision supported by data-driven decision-making, balanced with a heartfelt humanity,” he says. “Her leadership has provided the district with a good place for kids to learn.” Any given day includes a full schedule. This morning began with a meeting at Ygnacio Valley High with the International Baccalaureate program, lunch at the district office, then a meeting about the reopening of Holbrook Elementary.
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Give your friends and family handling tips as needed, and teach kids the proper way to pet and play. In a safe, supervised environment, introduce him to a cat-friendly dog and reward him with verbal encouragement and treats. Be sure to set up your kitten’s habitat. Cats and kittens should always have a “cubby” or other safe spot to retreat to if they are feeling overwhelmed. Remove the door of his carrier or turn a cardboard carrier on its side to create an instant hiding area. This also helps kitty get used to the carrier. Introduce your kitten to a scratching post or pad and encourage use by playing with toys over it. Reward with treats and verbal encouragement when he scratches the appropriate surface. Play with your kitten often, using interactive toys like wands. Never use your hands as toys or allow your kitten to bite or grab at hands, feet or other body parts. If your kitten nips or swats, immediately stop playtime. Most kittens require a “cool down” period between playtime and petting, so avoid petting while he’s engaged in play. If your kitten shows “bad” behaviors, make a noise loud enough to interrupt, and then divert kitty’s attention with a toy. Never use physical correction like nose-tapping, scruffing or pushing. Using physical punishment with a young kitten can cause him to become afraid of handling – or of you. With a little work, your kitten’s fun and enriching kittenhood will be filled with all sorts of diverse experiences to help him grow into a well-adjusted adult cat whose company you will enjoy for years to come.
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Meyer recently returned from Washington, D.C., where she accepted a Blue Ribbon School award for Strandwood Elementary – one of a handful of schools in California to win. “It’s been wonderful to see decisions made that have a positive impact on our students and community,” she says. Nellie Meyer is the superintendent of schools for Mt. Diablo Unified School District. Send comments and questions meyern@mdusd.org
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January 13, 2017
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Schools
CVCHS music hits holiday high note
DAViD LiNzEy VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE
Clayton Valley Charter High School’s instrumental music department’s holiday season highlighted the accomplishments of the students over the first semester. The December concerts entertained audiences with music from every genre and era – from classical wind band repertoire to contemporary jazz to string arrangements. Throughout the year, the CVCHS ensembles perform at multiple concerts, festivals and presentations on campus and throughout the community. This year, the ensembles will participate in 42 events showcasing their extraordinary musical talents. CVCHS developed the instrumental music program to ensure there is a place for every student. The symphonic band
SyDNEy SKOW
CVCHS
CORRESPONDENT
UCLA, 4.39. UC San Diego, 4.14. UC Santa Barbara, 3.96. UC Berkeley, 3.86. These are just a few of the average GPAs of incoming freshmen classes in the past two years. Students gain such high grade point averages through Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors classes. Students who earned an A or a B in the subject and have signatures from the teachers of these classes that stand as a recommendation are eligible to enroll in AP or Honors courses. They are encouraged to take these class-
class is for students learning a new instrument or those within their first two years of playing a wind, brass or percussion instrument. The string orchestra and chamber orchestra course is for beginning through advanced string players, and the wind ensemble is for advanced band members who are accepted after a competitive audition. In addition to daily instrumental music classes, students can participate in myriad competitive before- and afterschool music programs – including an elite jazz band. This spring, CVCHS will audition students for a full symphony orchestra that combines the top wind players with the top string players. CVCHS will also feature a percussion ensemble that meets once a week after school to perform music from STOMP as well as other progressive percussion pieces. The 2016 Eagle marching band season ended prior to the holidays, receiving its two highest scores to date: 4th in music and 2nd overall. The marching band has big plans for the 2017 season, including new uniforms and new instruments provided by the school. The new band director, Lydia Lim, plans to participate in more
NATALiE PuRSCHE
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CORRESPONDENT
their heads but may not work out in real life, says Ranjit. For example, my friend and I decided we would start running a course that was about a mile with lots of ups and downs, around our neighborhood 3-4 times a week. At first, we couldn’t even get through the course without stopping several times throughout the run, so we set up 3 stops along the way. Then, when the part
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music students Gabriel Boston, Aaron Suasin, Jacob Bamer, and Anthony Andrews at the CVCHS Winter Concert performance on Dec. 7
competitions next year. She wants to challenge the students to perform more complex music and detailed choreographies. CVCHS believes music is the vessel by which students learn teamwork, humility and discipline. It also provides a safe place for students to express themselves, explore new ideas and work with a multitude of different people.
The instrumental music program is home to more than 150 students and is growing every year. I am proud of all CVCHS musicians and hope to see you at one of our many performances in this new year. David Linzey is executive director of CVCHS. Contact him David.linzey@claytonvalley.org
2017-’18 school year. Next year, AP English Lit and AP English Language classes will replace Honors English. Only three Honors classes are offered at CVCHS: chemistry, pre-calculus and French. Diyar Kudrat, a sophomore, is planning to take AP biology, AP U.S. history and Honors pre-calculus as a junior. He wants to take these classes because they “will look good on my college applications and they will challenge me. Students should take AP and Honors courses in order to prepare them for college.” But many believe there is too much pressure to take a multitude of AP or Honors courses with the motivation of earning a higher GPA and admission to a renown university. Maris Degener, a freshman at UC Santa Cruz and the
CV Class of 2016 Grand Altair, agrees with this perspective. “I wish high school wasn’t so focused on end goals and more about the process,” Degener says. “While AP/Honors does help kids get used to the rigor of college courses, many students take so many of them that they neglect to actually learn from them and instead just try to get a good grade in them. “It’s not just a way to boost your GPA or get into a good school,” Degener adds. “It’s an opportunity to learn deeper material, enrich your understanding of the world and get used to academic rigor.”
before a stop became easier, we would eliminate the stop. When that part became easier, we would eliminate the next stop. Eventually, we were able to get through the whole run without stopping. Another reason that resolutions might fail is because people sometimes get negative feedback when they tell others about their plans. Keeping your goals to yourself might be better. Or, how about keeping them in a journal? When I chose to confide in someone, I made sure it is someone who would push me to reach my goal, and writing them down kept me on track. People also don’t prepare themselves for mistakes, Ranjit says. When trying to reach a goal, there will inevitably be setbacks. The last reason for resolution failure is that people may not be committed to the resolution. When making resolutions, people tend to get overly
excited and start making lists of everything that comes to mind. A couple of years ago, I decided that it would be cool to start journaling as a resolution, but I wasn’t dedicated enough and gave up within a week. If you aren’t devoted to a resolution, you won’t put the time and effort into reaching it, says Ranjit. If you want to succeed, make sure your resolutions are priorities. I find that making resolutions isn’t that successful, but making goals works a lot better. It might be better to set goals throughout the year, rather than making a new year’s resolution just once a year. No matter what you do, the only way to really succeed is to get up, brush yourself off and keep going. Natalie Pursche is an eighthgrader at DVMS and a regular contributor to the Pioneer. Send comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com.
Sydney Skow is a sophomore at CVCHS. Email her at editor@claytonpioneer.com.
Not all resolutions doomed to fail With a new year comes the well-known New Year’s resolutions, the time when people try to break those bad habits. From personal experience, I know that making New Year’s resolutions can be difficult. For that reason, I don’t like to make New Year’s resolutions. In the past I have decided on something and tend to give up on it within a week. It seems that I am not alone, according to Statistics Brain.com, of the 45 percent of Americans that do make New Year’s resolutions yearly, only 8 percent succeed. Still, making resolutions isn’t a bad idea, I guess. It’s just the way we approach the resolutions that end up in failure. An article by Preethi Ranjit describes four unsuccessful paths that might open your eyes and change your approach to resolutions; it’s definitely helped me. Many people tend to set goals that seem reasonable in
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es to boost GPAs and learn more in depth about the subject, among other reasons. “Studies have shown that the rigor of a student’s high school curriculum is the single best predictor of success in college,” states professionals.collegeboard.org. “The National Association for College Admission Counseling’s (NACAC) annual State of College Admissions survey consistently finds that student performance in college preparatory classes is the most important factor in the admission decision.” Just before winter break, students at Clayton Valley Charter High School applied for AP and Honors classes for the next school year. Psychology, biology and calculus are among the 19 AP classes CVCHS is offering for the
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T H E ARTS
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Young Concord actor finds his ‘Neverland’ Directed by Michael Butler, the play includes Elisabeth Nunziato, Lynda DiVito and Jamie Jones. Call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org for tickets.
SALLy HOGARTy
STAGE STRUCK One young Concord resident’s year has certainly gotten off to a good start. Nine-yearold Tyler Hennessy is performing in the national tour of “Finding Neverland.” The seasoned young professional had already racked up some impressive local shows, including “The Who’s Tommy,” “Ragtime,” “Gypsy,” “A Christmas Carol” and “The King and I.” His current role, however, is quite a leap into the “big time.” With dad Sean traveling with him, Tyler’s mom Alli and his three older sisters hold down the fort in Concord. But they’ll soon all be together again when “Finding Neverland” plays at the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco Jan. 18-Feb. 12. Then Tyler and his dad will be off again as the tour makes its way across the country. One of Broadway’s most
Jeff mcCarthy plays Will in “Back Home Again” featuring John Denver’s music.
January 13, 2017
9-year-old Tyler Concord resident Patrick Hennessy performs in the national touring company of “Finding Neverland.”
popular musicals, “Finding Neverland” tells of how Peter became Pan as playwright J.M. Barrie summons the courage to become the writer he yearns to be. Barrie finds his inspiration when he meets the beautiful widow Sylvia and her four young sons: Jack, George, Michael and Peter. Tyler currently plays Michael and is in rehearsals to also alternate as Jack. For tickets to see this “local boy makes good,” call 888746-1799 or go to www.shnsf.com.
It’s “Thelma and Louise” meets “The First Wives Club” when Center Rep opens 2017 with the flirtatious new comedy “Women in Jeopardy.” Running Jan. 27-Feb. 25 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, the story follows Mary and Jo as they try to save their friend Liz from her new weirdo dentist boyfriend. They trade in their wine glasses for spy glasses when the dentist’s hygienist goes missing and they fear for their friend’s fate.
Following his hit Showtime special “Ask Your Mom,” Don Friesen brings his smart, savvy, high-caffeinated comedy to Pittsburg’s California Theatre on Jan. 28. With a unique style that can best be described as frenetic and engaging, Friesen captures the irony of parenting, marriage and everyday absurdities through characters, voices and parodies as this suburban dad just tries to get through the day with a bit of money in the bank and a scrap of dignity left. For tickets, call 925-427- Jamie Jones, Lynda DiVito and Elisabeth Nunziato are best friends in Center Rep’s 1611 or go to www.pitts- “Women in Jeopardy Jan 27 - Feb 25 at the Lesher Center. burgcaliforniatheatre.com. Tri-Valley Repertory’s that includes Nikita Burshteyn from “Smokey Joe’s Cafe.” The John Denver fans will want production of “Jesus Christ (Jesus of Nazareth), Russell hit musical features 40 great to catch “Back Home Superstar” features some Mangan (Judas Iscariot), tunes such as “Jailhouse Rock,” Again” through Jan. 21 at Wal- incredibly powerful music of its Cheyenne Wells (Mary Magda- “Love Potion No. 9” and nut Creek’s Lesher Center for own. With lyrics by Tim Rice lene), Mathew Liebowitz (Pon- “Spanish Harlem.” the Arts. Denver’s exciting and and music by Andrew Lloyd tius Pilate), DC Scarpelli (King It runs Jan. 13-29 at Las iconic songs come to life in Webber, the passionate score Herod), Matt Davis (Caiaphas), Lomas High School Theater, this original new musical about can be thrilling, satirical and Nick Quintell (Simon 1460 S. Main St., in Walnut a young soldier’s journey home tender as the story of Jesus, his Zealotes), Ron Houk (Peter) Creek. For tickets, call 800to his family and first love. devoted followers and his ulti- and Jeff Seaberg (Annas). 838-3006 or go to When the war-torn veteran mate betrayal unfolds. For tickets, call 925-373- www.stars2000.org. finds himself face to face with The show runs Saturdays 6800 or go to www.trivalhis past, he must reconcile the and Sundays Jan. 14–29. Per- leyrep.org. Sally Hogarty is well known life he left behind before his formances take place at the around the Bay Area as a newspafuture can begin. Winner of beautiful Bankhead Theater, Meanwhile, those talented per columnist, theatre critic and the John Denver Spirit Award, 2400 First St., Livermore. young thespians from STARS working actress. She is the editor of “Back Home Again” features a Kathleen Breedveld and 2000 Teen Theatre Company the Orinda News. Send comments collection of Denver’s hits and Paul Vega direct a stellar cast take on the rock ’n’ roll classics to sallyhogarty@gmail.com lesser-known treasures, including “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Sunshine On My Shoulders” and “Leaving On A Jet Plane.” For tickets, call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. “A Thousand Splendid Suns” is the epic story of three generations of Afghan women who are bound together by marriage, family and a secret past amid the war-torn streets of modern-day Kabul. Based on the best-selling novel by Khaled Hosseini, “Suns” plays Feb. 1-26 at ACT’s Geary Theater in San Francisco. Playwright Ursula Rani Sarma adapted the book, with original music written and performed by composer and saw player David Coulter (Kronos Quartet and the Black Rider). Strong-willed Laila, unmarried and pregnant, is forced to marry her older neighbor when her family and home are torn apart. In her new home, she forges an extraordinary and unlikely friendship with Mariam, her husband’s first wife, and together the two women find the hope and strength to raise a new generation. Carey Perloff directs this world premiere, which is a co-production with Theatre Calgary.
‘Splendid Suns’ debuts at ACT
For tickets, call 415-749-2228 or visit tickets.act-sf.org.
Four ballets meld in Diablo Ballet’s ‘Body and Soul’ DC Scarpelli (center) plays Herod in Tri-Valley Rep’s production of “Jesus Christ Superstar,” Jan 14 through Jan 29 at the Bankhead in Livermore.
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“Body and Soul,” Diablo Ballet’s second program of its 23rd season, features four diverse ballets Feb. 3 and 4 in Walnut Creek. The February program features the pas de deux from “Mercurial Manoeuvres” by Christopher Wheeldon, who won a Tony for his choreography in “An American in Paris.” Wheeldon created “Mercurial Manoeuvres” in 2000 for the Diamond Project festival of new choreography. The ballet is set to Dmitri Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in C minor, Opus 35, performed by renowned concert pianist Aileen Chanco. The program also includes the world premiere of awardwinning Canadian choreographer Sonya Delwaide’s “Trait d’union,” set to “Élégie” by Gabriel Fauré. Delwaide uses challenging partnering work to emphasize the complexity in human relationships. This trio, two men and a woman, will explore the concept of finding unity in a relationship tainted by differences. Diablo Ballet artistic director Lauren Jonas will set the second act pas de deux from “Don Quixote,” based on the famous novel by Miguel de
See “Body and Soul” at the Del Valle Feb. 3-4.
Cervantes and choreographed by Marius Petipa in 1869. In this excerpt, Kitri and Basilio flee to a gypsy camp and dance a flirtatious pas de deux, knowing that they belong to one another. “ ‘Don Quixote’ was one of my favorite ballets to dance, and I am looking forward to staging this excerpt for Diablo Ballet,” Jonas says. The program closes with the Diablo Ballet premiere of “When in Doubt,” choreographed by resident choreogra-
pher Robert Dekkers and set to a commissioned score by Jacob Wolenhauer. This ensemble work, driven by the dancers’ voices, integrates the spoken words of the Diablo Ballet dancers with those of the performing artists who premiered the original work. “Body and Soul” performs Feb. 3 and 4 at the Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd.. Walnut Creek. For more information, call 925-9431775 or visit www.diabloballet.org.
January 13, 2017
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 11
Clayton Community Calendar
PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. FEB. 1 FOR THE FEB. 10 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
IN CLAYTON
Jan. 23 Water – More or Less Reflections on the changing landscapes of California’s water with authors Rita Sudman and Stephanie Taylor. Sponsored by the Clayton American Association of University Women and Clayton Community Library Foundation. 7 p.m. Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. Free. For more information, call Jeanne at (925) 872-9807. Feb. 12 Camellia Tea Clayton Historical Society’s 40th annual Camellia Tea and Open House with special honoree’s, the museum garden volunteers. Camellia display and refreshments. Children welcome with adults. 1 – 4 p.m. Clayton Museum, 6101 Main Street. Free. 672-0240. Starting Feb. 15 “School Days” Clayton Museum’s newest exhibit celebrating historic schools in the Clayton area. Museum open Wednesdays and Sundays from 2 – 4 p.m. 6101 Main St. Free admission; donations welcome. claytonhistory.org. (925) 6720240.
IN CONCORD
Mondays Off the Grid Rotating lineup of food trucks. 5 – 8 p.m. 2151 Salvio Street. offthegridsf.com.
Jan. 14, 16 “The Meeting” Play depicting supposed meeting of Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $13-$15. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. (925) 427-1611.
Jan. 15 “From Victim to Victory” Featuring Albert Rosa, the Holocaust survivor who received a Purple Heart. 3 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25-$30. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. Jan. 19 – 22 “Spontaneous Sitcom” Get ready to binge watch your favorite TV sitcom with Synergy Theater. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. Jan. 20 Cheyenne Jackson in Concert Presented by Feinstein’s Presents. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $62.50 $92.50. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Jan. 20 – 22 “Snow Queen” Presented by El Campanil Children’s Theatre. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $8-$12. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Jan. 21 “The Music of Simon and Garfunkel” Performed by AJ Swearingen and Jayne Kelli. 8 p.m. El Tuesdays Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $10-$27. Farmers’ Market Tuesdays year round, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, elcampaniltheatre.com. downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org. Jan. 22 “Peace, Love, Mozart & Beethoven” Jan. 28 Presented by California Symphony. 4 p.m. Lesher Center Health Care Town Hall Meeting for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $42Learn how to be a part of statewide movement for quality $72. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. health care. Speakers include Congressman Mark DeSaulnier and Congressman George Miller, Ret. 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. First Christian Church of Concord, 3039 Willow Jan. 27 Audra McDonald with Will Swenson in Concert Pass Road. Free. For more information, contact David Sharples at dsharples@calorganize.org or (510)269-4692. Presented by Feinstein’s Presents. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $75-$105. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. Feb. 9 Advance Health Care Directives Jan. 27 – 29 Contra Costa Senior Legal Services, the city of Concord “Fiddler on the Roof JR” and members of AIG’s legal department offer this legal Presented by Poison Apple Productions. Lesher Center for clinic to prepare and notarize advance health care directhe Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20. lesherartscentives for seniors 60 and older who reside in Contra Costa ter.org. (925) 943-7469. County. 9:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. Free. Call the Senior Center at (925) 671-3320 to sign up for private appointment and free no- Jan. 27 – Feb. 11 “Catfish Moon” tarizing. Presented by Onstage Repertory Theatre. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $12-$18. live@campbelltheON AND AROUND THE MOUNTAIN ater.com. (925) 518-3277. Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve programs are available for registration through ebparks.org. Parking fees Jan. 27 – Feb. 25 may apply. For additional information, contact Black Dia“Women in Jeopardy!” mond Visitor Center at (510) 544-2750 or Fun and flirtatious new comedy presented by Center REPerbdvisit@ebparks.org. tory. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$55. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. Jan. 14 Winter Raptors Jan. 28 Scan the skies for raptors. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Meet at Don Friesen Round Valley Staging Area. Smart and savvy, highly-caffeinated comedy. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $17-$20. Jan. 15 pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. (925) 427-1611. Hazel-Atlas History Hike Hike over old sandstone mine workings to examine the Feb. 3 history of the hills. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at Black Dia- “Causing a Scene” mond Mines. Act II Improv performs. 7:45 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Jan. 22 $15. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. The Fungus Among Us Grow an appreciation for Feb. 3 mushrooms, molds and James Monroe Iglehart in Concert slimes while exploring the Presented by Feinstein’s Presents. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for murky backwoods of the the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $62.50preserve. 10 a.m. – 12 $92.50. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. p.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines. Feb. 3 – 4 “Body and Soul” Jan. 28 Soulful ballet program featuring romantic duet. Del Valle East Side Rocky Ramble Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $27-$47. Travel through some of the most scenic and least-visited diabloballet.org. parts of the park. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines. Feb. 4 “Sinatra Sings The Big Bands” Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are Presented by West Coast Performing Arts Presenters. 7:30 free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut mdia.org and click on Events Calendar for more informaCreek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. tion. Feb. 4 – 5 Jan. 22 “Song and Dance” Mushrooms, Fungi and Lichens Presented by Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra. 2 p.m. Drop in to find out about local edibles and dangerous Feb. 4: El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. growths. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Museum. $7-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com. Feb. 5: Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherEVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT artscenter.org. 943-7469.
Thru Jan. 21 “Back Home Again” A new musical featuring the songs of John Denver. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $55-$61. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. Tuesdays Walnut Creek Chorus Rehearsal All voices welcome. 7 – 9 p.m. Trinity Lutheran Church, 2317 Buena Vista Ave., Walnut Creek. walnutcreekchorus.com.
Feb. 9 - 25 “Man of Letters: A View of Oscar Wilde” Original theatrical work by Alan Cameron. B8 Theatre Company, 2292 Concord Blvd., Concord. $20-$25. b8theatre.org. (925) 890-8877. Feb. 10 – 12 “Patience” Presented by Lamplighters Musical Theatre. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $50-$55. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Feb. 10 – 12 “Port Chicago 50” Inspired by true events at the navy shipyard in Port Chicago in 1944. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$35. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. (925) 427-1611. Feb. 10 – Mar. 5 “Ghost” Presented by OMG, I Love That Show! Productions. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $39$44. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Feb. 11 “Abbacadabra” Performing 20 of ABBA’s greatest hits. 3 and 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $15-$32. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Feb. 11 Aloe Day Tours and Sweets with Your Sweetie Guided aloe tours with refreshments at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Guided aloe tours at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Self-guided tours 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Ruth Bancroft Garden, 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. $8-$10 regular admission. $50$65/couple Sweets event; registration required. ruthbancroftgarden.org. (925) 944-9352.
CHURCHES AND RELIGION
Jan. 22 “Mutts and Maribel Walk to the Moon” An original story set to music. 3 p.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $5. cvpresby.org.
FUNDRAISERS
2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org. Jan. 13 Taste of Mt. Diablo Taste local wines and foods; wine auction, raffle, dancing. Proceeds benefit Mt. Diablo Elementary Playfield Project. Adults 21 and older only. 6 – 10 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. $75. atasteofmtdiablo.eventbrite.com.
AT THE LIBRARY
The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call (925) 673-0659. Jan. 19: Aloha Mind Math, 4 p.m. Jan. 21: College Information Workshop, 10:30 a.m. Jan. 23: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Feb. 1 – 28: Catch a Dragon by the Tale; reading program kindergarten through 3rd grade Feb. 2: Valentine Craft, 4 p.m.
The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or (925) 646-5455. Jan. 26: Master Gardeners, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 30: STEAM, 7 p.m. Feb. 1, 8: About Face: Veteran Self-Portrait Painting Workshop, 2:30 p.m. Registration required. Feb. 2: Origami, 4 p.m. Feb. 7: Watercolor texturing techniques, 1 p.m.
GOVERNMENT
1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. (925) 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. (925) 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at claytonpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’
Icons in Transformation
Over 100 paintings by Russian artist Ludmila Pawlowska plus traditional icons from Vassilevsky Monastery in Russia
Show shared by St. Michael and All Angels-Concord, 2925 Bonifacio Street and St. John’s-Clayton, 5555 Clayton Rd.
Through Feb. 17, both churches.
At St. Michael’s: Fridays 6 pm – 8 pm Saturdays & Sundays 2 pm – 5 pm At St. John’s: Sundays 2 pm – 5 pm Other times by appointment by calling 925-890-7839
Sports
Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
January 13, 2017
League play for winter sports in full gear this month JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter High School and other area schools begin play in their inaugural Diablo Athletic League seasons this month with berths in the North Coast Section post-season beckoning for successful basketball and soccer teams and wrestlers. Teams are hoping to get into the NCS tournaments in February by qualifying through the new DAL two-conference setup. The league split each sport into the higher seeded Foothill Conference and the lower seeded Valley Conference. The alignments are meant to setup competitive equity among the 12 DAL schools. The top team in each conference automatically earns an NCS berth. Clayton Valley Charter is in the top flight of boys soccer and wrestling and in the Valley for girls soccer and both basketball teams. UNIQUE DAL BASKETBALL ALIGNMENT
Basketball is the only DAL sport where the boys and girls teams from each school were all placed in the same confer-
ence. With six schools in each conference league games begin this Friday and the doubleround robin schedule continues on Tuesdays and Fridays through Feb. 17. The Eagles boys team was 10-6 in the preseason and coach Eric Bamberger expects his team to finish atop the Valley standings. His veteran squad is led by juniors Garret Pascoe and Nick Klarman who each received all-league honors as sophomores plus a trio of seniors—Jeff Williams, Vince Lontz and Spencer Tamichi. Junior JD Williams is the top newcomer for CVCHS, which lost first team all-DVAL Matt Osterkamp to graduation. Bamberger expects defending DVAL champion Concord, Berean Christian and Alhambra to pose the biggest challenge to the Eagles’ title bid. The Eagles girls enjoyed the holiday break by taking second place in the Ruby Division of the West Coast Jamboree losing to Davis in the finals after beating Calaveras and Immanuel in the first two rounds. Coach Paul Kommer’s team was 10-5 in non-league and he sees defending champ Concord and Alhambra, currently
Jason Rogers
Senior Christian utne will be seeking his first league title after taking second the past two years for Clayton Valley Charter High School. utne won his match by technical fall last week against Northgate at 132 pounds. He wrestled at 122 as a sophomore and 126 last year. Last month he was runner-up at the ninth annual Bill martell invitational.
Photo courtesy CVCHS basketball
Clayton Valley Charter’s girls basketball team was busy over the holiday break taking second in the Ruby Division of the 17th annual West Coast Jamboree, the largest girls high school tournament in the country. The Eagles won two games before losing to Davis in the division championship game. The team includes, front row from left, Krissy Wullenweber, Kelly Osterkamp, Kat Segovia, Bridget Hyland, and Gloria Tay; back row, maya Berry, Sarah Shikanov, ysobelle Eustaquio, Carolyn Delosreyes, Sabrina Davis, Ayanna munoz, Jade Davis and Hannah Kommer. Osterkamp and Kommer earned all-tournament honors.
15-1, as the challengers for the DAL crown. “I think our continued improvement will allow us as well to compete for a league title,” the coach said. His returning starters, Bridget Hyland and Kelly Osterkamp “have been very solid so far.” Other key returning players are seniors Hannah Kommer and Jade Davis and soph Kat Segovia. He’s excited that freshman Ysobelle Eustaquio is getting lots of productive minutes. CVCHS girls lost in the first round of the DI playoffs a year ago to eventual champs Castro Valley. De La Salle made it all the way to the State championship game before losing to the legendary Chino Hills team last March. The Spartans won the Division I NCS and NorCal titles en route to the finals. New coach Justin Argenal’s team is 9-4, including a pair of wins in the opening week of East Bay Athletic League play. Three of the four Spartan losses came in the Iolani Classic in Hawaii. NCS moved DII champion
Carondelet into Division I while DIII girls champion Miramonte is moving up to DII. Carondelet won 11 of the last 14 DII Section titles and were second two other times. The Cougars are 9-3 with a pair of lopsided EBAL victories in the bank. The losses have come against teams from Tennessee and Arizona plus California’s top-ranked team Clovis West. This year’s NCS basketball begins Feb. 21-25, the semifinals are Mar. 1 and the finals Mar. 3-4. NorCal tournament is Mar. 8-14.
SOCCER TEAMS WIN DAL OPENERS Clayton Valley Charter boys soccer bounced back with an outstanding season last winter to win the Diablo Valley Athletic League championship and making it to the NCS quarterfinals after a three-year absence from the playoffs. This pushed the Eagles into the Foothill Conference where their league foes will include Ygnacio Valley and DII NCS runner-up Campolindo.
Diablo FC 05 girls win State Cup Gold title
meets every Wednesday through Feb. 8. The Eagles lost their opener at Northgate last week. Top returnees are seniors Ryan Fischer (195), Andy de Lira (285), Christian Utne (126), Mauricio Bermudez (152) and juniors Chris Palacios (120), Jacob Coppa (132), Will Burton (160) and Ben Acebo (170). Coach Kyle Behmlander says, “I truly don’t know how we will finish in the new league. Too many unknowns.” He says the pre-season went well as the Eagles placed third in the Bill Martell with Fischer taking first, Coppa and Utne second and de Lira and Burton third. At the Lou Bronzan tournament de Lira was third and Burton seventh. Top CVCHS girl returnees are Aubrey Navarro (106), Thaotien Nguyen (121) and Melissa Cark (137 Defending champion De La Salle has won seven of the past eight NCS dual and team titles. The NCS dual team championship is Feb.11 while WRESTLERS AIM FOR the Section championships are NCS, STATE Feb. 24-25 at James Logan in CVCHS is in the top brack- Union City, a week before the et for wrestling and the five State meet. Foothill schools will have dual
DVAL offensive MVP Pedro Hernandez and fellow senior Taylor Heuerman are leading the Eagles attack as they have posted a 9-1-2 record including a win in their DAL Foothill opener. Defending DVAL champion CVCHS girls struggled through a winless non-league schedule but then won their DAL Valley Conference opener last week 1-0 over Concord. Northgate figures to be the biggest roadblock to a third straight league crown for the Eagles of coach Cristina Ballard. De La Salle won six consecutive North Coast Section Division I soccer championships from 2009-2014 and is looking to get back to the finals. Coach Derricke Brown’s team has only allowed three goals in 12 games for an 8-1-3 mark. Carondelet lost the NCS championship game in overtime last winter and is 10-0 starting this season including 3-0 in the powerful EBAL.
Olympian joins Terrapins at annual awards dinner
Jay Bedecarré
Photo courtesy Diablo FC
Diablo FC 05 Blue girls won the NorCal Premier Gold A under 12 championship in manteca. The local girls defeated the Roseville Strikers 3-2 in the State Cup finals. The team coach by miguel Gonzales and zach Pauline jumped off to a 3-0 lead in the finale capping a strong State Cup run. The girls also won the Soccer by the Bay tournament last summer. Diablo FC 05 Blue includes, front row from left, Joey Kremin, Katie Kavanagh, Cassidy Baker, Arlise Souza, Erika Salazar; back row, coach Pauline, Kira Barrett, Lauren Gherlone, Amanda monahan, Gia Bessolo, Lizzie Pauline, Abby Gee and head coach Gonzales.
Three-time united States Olympian Elizabeth Beisel (center) was guest of honor at the Terrapins Swim Team annual dinner last month at Centre Concord. Beisel represented America at the Beijing, London and Rio Games. She was the youngest member of the uSA swimming team in China and medaled twice in London. Joining Beisel are Terrapins from Clayton are Sarah deBack (left), 14-years-old from Carondelet High School, and Anthony Vizental, 15 from Clayton Valley Charter High. When they were younger, Vizental was a member of the Dana Hills Otters and deBack was with the Oakhurst Orcas recreation teams. Both local swimmers also were on the Terrapin Academic Honor Roll.
Sports
January 13, 2017
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Athlete Spotlight
Andy de Lira
Grade: Senior School: CVCHS Sports: Wrestling, Football, Rugby
Senior Andy de Lira has played football throughout high school as well as wrestling and playing rugby for three years. His football career included three seasons on Ugly Eagles varsity as a defensive tackle and two years on the offensive line. De Lira has wrestled for three years, starting as a freshman on varsity, taking second in DVAL and qualifying for North Coast Section. During his junior year, de Lira won league at 287 pounds. Rugby is considered a club sport at CVCHS so he has been permitted to play rugby and wrestle during the same winter season. “Andy is the definition of tough. He is a throwback player that plays with power and physicality. He is also extremely intelligent and unselfish. Definitely a kid I am going to miss,” says CVCHS football coach Tim Mur-
Andy de Lira (left) faces off against David Maake of Northgate
phy who enjoyed de Lira’s contributions to three straight league championship teams and two State Bowl games. De Lira made all-league last fall. He played soccer and basketball before high school and because he was too heavy for youth football. Entering Clayton Valley Charter he was approached by the freshman football coach who persuaded him to play. After that season he was also convinced to wrestle over playing basketball. “My favorite part about being an athlete here is being looked up to by my family and peers. I hope to inspire my younger family members to play sports.” “Andy is this big bear of a man, but when you get to know him he is a great dude. He is an easy-going guy that has the biggest smile. And then he enters the athletic arena and everything changes. He becomes this cold-hearted assassin. He is extremely athletic. He is one of the most gifted big men I’ve ever met. He is 285 pounds, can run a sub 1:40 quartermile lap and is as strong as a grizzly bear,” Eagles wrestling coach Kyle Behmlander says. “He always brings his
best effort. I think he has a great chance making it to state this year.” As well as being a busy athlete, he has been a volunteer counselor for the Exploring New Horizons Outdoor School, a mentor for Clayton Valley youth football and been on the CVCHS honor roll. De Lira plans on attending junior college in the fall and transferring to a four-year university. He would like to start his own business in the future. CVCHS student journalist Sydney Skow wrote this Spotlight.
The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Andy and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
DLS comes up short to No. 2 National team in State Bowl JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
The legendary Bob Ladouceur came to De La Salle in 1979 taking over a nondescript football program and built the Spartans into a national powerhouse prompting books and a Hollywood movie. Never since that time had DLS given up as many points as they did in last month’s CIF State Open Division Bowl championship game in a 56-33 loss to St. John Bosco of Bellflower, which finished second in final 2016 national rankings. It was the Spartans second loss to Bosco in the State finals in the past four years. De La Salle maintained their unprecedented perfect record of reaching the State finals all 11 years since CIF revived the bowl games. In the last four finals they have scored 138 points and given up 139. That
See DLS, page 14
Page 13
Tough break should not overshadow Raiders 2016 coming out party
set career highs in completion percentage (63.8%), yards per attempt (7.03) and total QBR (60.6). He also had the fewest interceptions in a season in his career, dropping his total from 12 and 13 in his first two years to a measly six. Carr was a fringe MVP candidate on one of the top teams in the NFL. He was prepared to JACOB SAMUELS lead the Raiders as a serious SPORTS TALK contender into the postseason hoping to make some serious Derek Carr had a breakout noise. That is, until he injured 2016 season as quarterback of his leg in week 16 after suffering the Oakland Raiders. In his third professional season, he See Raiders, page 15
Winter volleyball champs crowned in Clayton
Photo courtesy All Out Sports League
The Demolition Crew won the All Out Sports League winter co-ed volleyball title in Clayton Community Gym. The team includes, from left, John Jatoft, Kim Buck, Sandra Bohn and John Porcella. DC finished ahead of second place Crush and third place Spike Lightning. The early spring league schedule began last week.
U8-U11 Tryouts and Futsal with Diablo FC
U8–U11 Boys and Girls (Born in 2010–2007) January 21–February 5
Jan 21 - Ygnacio Valley High School 9:30 am - 10:45 am (U8 - U9 boys and girls) 10:45 am - 12 pm (U10 boys and girls) 12 pm - 1:15 pm (U11 boys and girls) Photo courtesy Dennis Lee/SportStars magazine
Linebacker Henry To’oto’o (11) delivers a hit on fellow sophomore Clayton Valley Charter’s Thomas Alatini (15) during De La Salle’s shutout of the ugly Eagles in the NCS semi-finals. To’oto’o transferred to DLS this school year from Sacramento. He was recently named to the maxPreps second team defense sophomore All-America team. Senior caption Logan Nonies was injured in the second DLS game last fall and To’oto’o took over his spot. He will be one of a number of outstanding returnees for the Spartans this fall as they try to regain their State title after losing to St. John Bosco last month.
Jan 22 - Clayton Valley Charter High School 11:30 am - 12:45 pm (U8 - U9 boys and girls) 12:45 pm - 2 pm (U10 boys and girls) 2 pm - 3:15 pm (U11 boys and girls) Jan 28 - Ygnacio Valley High School 9:30 am - 10:45 am (U8 - U9 boys and girls) 10:45 am - 12 pm (U10 boys and girls) 12 pm - 1:15 pm (U11 boys and girls)
Wednesday, Jan 25 from 7 pm - 8:30 pm for ‘08 and ‘07 boys and girls only at Diablo Valley College
We are also offering an 8-week winter futsal clinic which will begin on Jan. 17. Futsal is a 5v5 indoor game that is widely recognized as being one of the most valuable ways to develop players’ soccer skills. This clinic is open to boys and girls born in 2007-2010. The cost is $125 per player. All sessions will be held at Diablo View Middle School.
Please visit our website at www.diablofc.org to register for either program
Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Sports
De La Salle, from page 13
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includes a pair of wins over national power Centennial of Corona and the two losses to Bosco. In four previous winning bowl games from 2009-2012 the Spartans outscored their SouCal opponents 159-50. Overall DLS is 7-4 in State championship games. For those hoping the Bosco loss might indicate a decline in Spartan fortunes, wait till next fall. Coach Justin Alumbaugh will have a much more talented roster with several playmakers for the 2017 season. De La Salle was pronounced in a “down year” as early as last summer before a game was played after virtually the entire starting lineup from the 2015 State championship team graduated. Many early-season Spartan results, including three wins by
less than a touchdown and a rare home loss, seemed to bear out that prognosis but continued improvement and maturing by De La Salle led to better results through to the championship game. After the loss to Bosco that finished an 11-2 season (the other defeat was 23-21 to Utah State champion East of Salt Lake City, another top 20 team nationally) Alumbaugh acknowledged his team was second best to the Braves. “That team is better than us,” said the fourth-year Spartans coach, adding that his team “had a small margin of error” yet their six fumbles (three lost to Bosco) and one interception were too much to overcome. The powerful Bosco offense broke the previous record of 42 points allowed by DLS with a pair of
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SPARTANS RELOAD Junior runningback Kairee Robinson was the breakout star for DLS this year gaining over 2000 yards rushing while missing nearly two full games. He scored 27 touchdowns and was first team all-Metro. He drew comparisons to Spartan legend Maurice Jones-Drew and will be a consensus preseason all-star in the fall. Leading the Spartans line will be his
classmate, all-Metro 305pound lineman Tuli Letuligasenoa. Also earning plaudits as underclassmen were sophomore tight end Isaiah Foskey and sophomore all-America linebacker Henry To’oto’o. Shamar Garrett got to see rare post-season action as a freshman while soph Andrew Jones saw brief plays as the backup quarterback. Senior Wade Willet was second team all-Metro lineman for the Spartans, their only senior to be so honored. DAL defensive player of the year Koti Vaisima of CVCHS was also a first team all-Metro defensive lineman. His senior linemate Jalen McKenzie was second team offense. Ugly Eagles senior linebacker Bryce Brand announced last week that he is going to the Big 10 to play for the Maryland Terrapins.
DIABLO FC SOCCER TRYOUTS BEGIN JAN. 21
mid-March. MDSA AYSO Region 223 serves Clayton, Concord and surrounding communities. For more details and to register visit mdsoccer.org.
Mt. Diablo Soccer Association is having tryouts this month for its elite competitive teams. Boys born in the years 2003-2007 JUNIOR OPTIMIST BASEBALL, SOFTBALL SIGNUPS will try out this Saturday at City Park in Pittsburg and Jan. 21 and TAKEN ONLINE 29 at Mt. Diablo High School in Concord. Girls born in 2003 Junior Optimist Baseball/Softball League is accepting regisand 2004 will also try out Jan. 21 and 29 at MDHS. Other age tration for ages 4-15 for boys JOBL and Babe Ruth baseball and groups will try out later. Check mdsoccer.org for full MDSA elite girls 4-14 for softball. There are also year-round travel team tryout schedule and updates. Tryouts are held rain or shine. opportunities for Patriot baseball and Glory/Lady Liberty softball teams. For more information call Sheryl Dron at 827-0763, WORLD RACQUETBALL TOUR’S BIGGEST NORCAL Adrienne Warren at 686-0673 or visit joblconcord.com. The World Racquetball Tour will hold the largest racquetball tournament at the Big C Athletic Club in Concord Jan. 27-29 featuring the tour’s top-ranked players from around the world. International federations including Argentina, Bolivia, Japan, Chile, Mexico, USA, Canada and Costa Rica have committed to sending players to the tournament. The West Coast Championship is the first Grand Slam of the 2017 WRT Season with 12 tour stops around the United States through December . 2017. With divisions for both men and women ranging in age and skill levels, there are lots of options for amateurs to sign up and play in a shootout style that starts on Friday evening and runs through Sunday. Visit WorldRacquetballTour.com and access the event site at bit.ly/wrtwestcoast for more information.
w e i V o l b Dia truction Cons
fourth-quarter touchdowns. In order to get to the NCS finals for the 33rd straight year DLS eliminated Clayton Valley Charter in the first-ever NCS Open Division playoff game 28-0 in the semi-final pitting two Concord powerhouses against one another for only the second time in the playoffs and 30 years since the 1986 NCS semi-final game. DLS then rolled over previously unbeaten Freedom of Oakley 42-7 for its 25th straight NCS title.
Diablo FC will be holding tryouts for its 2017 competitive teams Jan. 21- Feb. 5 for under 8 through under 11 (birth years 2006-2010) age groups. The U12-U14 (birth years 2003-2005) CONCORD CUP XXIV ACCEPTING competitive team tryouts will be Feb. 13-27. Under 15 and older SOCCER TEAM REGISTRATIONS team tryouts will be in May after spring league games conclude. The area’s largest annual youth soccer tournament, Concord Visit diablofc.org to get more information and signup for Winter Cup, returns for its 24th season at a variety of local parks May Academy clinics and tryouts. 20-21. Boys and girls club and recreation teams from under 10 through U19 are eligible to participate. Diablo FC, Mt. Diablo MDSA SPRING LEAGUE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN Soccer and Concord AYSO co-sponsor the tournament. Visit Registration is open for Mt Diablo Soccer Association’s concordcup.com for complete information and to register a Spring season. The program is open to boys and girls under 5team to participate. U19 divisions. The older divisions are co-ed teams. Games start
MDSA ANNOUNCES TRYOUTS FOR
license 962284
January 13, 2017
DIABLO FC BENEFIT CRAB FEED FEB. 3 AT CENTRE CONCORD
The 14th annual Diablo FC benefit crab feed and raffle is set for Friday, Feb. 3, at Centre Concord. Tickets are now on sale for the event that benefits programs for the local competitive youth soccer club affiliated with the San Jose Earthquakes. This year’s Super Raffle includes a Las Vegas Trip for two adults including airfare, room at Paris Hotel & Resort and $1000 VISA card. Visit diablofc.org for more details and to purchase crab feed and super raffle tickets.
CVCHS SEEKING COACHES FOR SPRING SPORTS TEAMS
Clayton Valley Charter co-athletic director Eric Bamberger announced several open coaching positions for spring sports teams at the Concord school. Open spots include varsity boys and girls swimming and diving, junior varsity and frosh girls lacrosse, varsity badminton (new sport) and varsity girls rugby. Interested persons should send a resume and cover letter to eric.bamberger@claytonvalley.org. Call Bamberger with any questions at 682-7474 ext. 3162.
The 2017 class for the Clayton Valley High School Hall of Fame includes five Eagles teams and event organizers are reaching out to locate members of those teams. The honorees will be inducted May 19 at Shadelands Art Center in Walnut Creek. The teams are 1960 baseball of head coach Vic Petreshene, 1972 wrestling of coaches Glen Scrimger and Bill Nelson, 1978 soft- MT. DIABLO HIGH HALL OF FAME CRAB FEED JAN. 21 ball and coach Larry Fogelstrom and 1994 girls water polo and The Mt. Diablo High School Hall of Fame will hold its annu1994 girls swimming of coach Dennis Bledsoe. Players on those al crab feed to support MDHS sports and academic programs at teams should send a note with their contact info to Clayton Val- Zio Fraedo’s in Pleasant Hill on Saturday, Jan. 21. Attendees can ley HS Athletic Hall of Fame, P.O. Box 502, Clayton 94517. count on a great meal including fresh cracked crab, pasta, salad, dessert, dancing and raffle prizes. Tickets are $60. For more USKS PRESENTS 30TH ANNUAL information call Lou Adamo 212-9332 or email him at JUST FOR KICKS BENEFIT SHOW FEB. 11 louadamo@gmail.com. USKS Martial Arts will host its 30th Anniversary showcase, Just For Kicks, on Saturday, Feb. 11, with students from Pee Wee REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES Champs (four years and younger) up through the studio’s black SPRING PROGRAMS NOW OPEN belt instructors. USKS Martial Arts is celebrating 30 years in Spring programs including adult softball, co-ed adult volleyConcord. Just For Kicks is at Berean Christian High School in ball and youth basketball offered by All Out Sports Leagues in Walnut Creek starting at 6 p.m. Advance tickets at $10 can be Clayton are taking registration now online. purchased until Feb. 6 at the Dojo (4483 Clayton Rd. by Bill’s For complete information on All Out Sports programs, visit Ace Hardware) or from USKS students. Visit alloutsportsleague.com. usksmartialarts.com in advance for details.
ST. BONAVENTURE CYO TRACK IN-PERSON SIGN UPS THIS MONTH
St. Bonaventure CYO track and field is holding in-person registration Jan. 17-23-24. The sessions are from 6:30-8 p.m. at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, 5562 Clayton Rd. The track and field program is open to boys and girls in second through eighth grades. Practices beginning Feb. 6 are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 5-6:15 p.m. at Newhall Park. Saturday meets begin in March and the season runs through May 13, culminating with the Oakland Diocese championships. For more information call 826-7426, email coach Matt Tillman at matttillman@gmail.com or go to stbonaventurecyo.com.
CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE TRYOUTS THIS MONTH
Tryouts for Clayton Valley Little League are begin held this month for the spring season. Baseball programs for players ages four to 15 and softball for girls six to 16 are offered by CVLL. The program includes a Challenger Division for players with disabilities and special needs. Players must reside within the CVLL boundaries. Go to cvll.org for complete information.
WINTER FUTSAL, SOCCER CLINICS NOW OFFERED BY DIABLO FC THIS MONTH
Diablo FC competitive soccer club is offering an eight-week futsal clinic beginning Jan. 17 in Clayton Community Gym at Diablo View Middle School in Clayton. Futsal is a 5v5 indoor game recognized as one of the most valuable ways to develop players’ soccer skills. Boys and girls born between 2007 and 2010 are eligible to take part. Professional coaches from Diablo FC will be offering Monday evening skills training for girls and boys 6-12 years-old at Willow Pass Park in Concord. Clinic is from 5:15-6:30 p.m. each Monday. For more info on both programs visit or register at diablofc.org.
23RD CVCHS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS CRAB FEED & AUCTION MAR. 11
Clayton Valley Charter High School Athletic Boosters hold their 23rd annual Crab Feed and Auction on Saturday, Mar. 11, at Centre Concord. Attendees must be 21 or older. For more info email cvchsboosters@gmail.com or go to cvhsboosters.org for info to order tickets online for a night of food, drink, dancing, auctions and raffle prizes.
January 13, 2017
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Spring calls for flouncy ruffles – and slouchy sweatshirts
standout statement. But completely flat. There’s nothwhen paired with classic ing subtle about this trend, so black accessories, this look is you might as well accept that sophisticated. Try a striped doing it right will involve sweater with a black skirt or punky spikes and loud prints. slacks. • Slouchy sweatshirts. • Hello, yellow. A color more Thanks to the athleisure associated with Big Bird than trend that has been on the big style, yellow made a fashion radar for the past few strong statement on the seasons, designers continue spring catwalks. It was bright, to offer stylish takes on comSuSAN SAPPiNGTON bold and cheery – much like fort favorites. This spring, Mr. Bird. The clothes took play with proportions by layCLOTHESUP tonal cues from the sunshine ering a cool and cozy sweatI’m not a mind reader, but we’ll all be craving come shirt over a swimsuit, mini thanks to the designers’ Spring summer. dress or micro shorts. 2017 runways, I can paint a • Bra tops. Designers pretty clear picture of this year embraced the bra this season, Sunshine yellow is the 2017 The bra top is the newest If you can’t figure out what Lift your spirits in 2017 with in fashion. showing all manners – from color to wear. sensation (for the brave). flashy flatforms. trend is right for you, let me These looks set the pace for sexy leather to girly florals – help you this spring season. I a new season, which is going to as legitimate substitutes for ruffles on sleek silhouettes natural follow-up to thigh- of all of my large earrings. am giving away closet audits to be a little different. Prepare for T-shirts and blouses. The offer an interesting balance high boots. • Flashy flatforms. If you the first five people to reach bolder prints, more frills and look was equal parts between flounce and fashion. • Enormous earrings. It need a lift, you’ll definitely out by Jan. 31. some serious wardrobe disrup- provocative and pretty. When • Over-the-knee socks. Not seems every piece of jewelry find one next season. tion. paired with a high-waisted since Cher Horowitz blew has received the zoom treat- Although footwear trends Susan Sappington is the Area While minimalism has skirt or pants, it’s surprisingly our minds with her clueless ment over the years, from ran the gamut from ladylike Development Manager and Wardrobe ruled, 2017 is poised to bring wearable. If you dare. observations on political gigantic knuckle-duster rings slides to basic white sneakers, Consultant for ETCETERA Clothsome big changes. It’s going to • Layers of ruffles. When it affairs have over-the-knee to gravity-defying necklaces. souped-up flatforms be an interesting year in fash- comes to spring, ruffles are socks made such a strong Shoulder grazing, multi- undoubtedly stole the show. ing of New York. Send comments to ion. Here are some of the top almost as universal as florals. showing. We can thank the tiered and downright scene- They’re like a platform, but susan@etcstyles.com. trends: But unlike the subtle and ’90s redo (especially preva- stealing, earrings are large • Bright stripes. Spring’s sophisticated ruffles of sea- lent in runway hair and make- and in charge for spring. stripes are bold and over the sons past, this time volume is up) for this divisive trend Time to start exercising your top. Primary colors and exagthat’s being positioned as the lobes. I’m so upset I got rid driving the trend. Layers of gerated silhouettes make a
Raiders, from page 13
a break in his pinky finger four games before. Against the Indianapolis Colts in the penultimate game of the regular season he suffered a broken fibula when he was tackled in the backfield. While the Raiders managed to win that game, they lost their final game against Denver and with it the divisional title and a first-round bye. Some would say it is most definitely disappointing for
both players and fans for such a great season to end so bleak. But that is not a fair assessment. The Raiders had not made the playoffs since 2002, a stretch that included 11 losing seasons. The fact they were able to jump from perennial 21st Century loser directly to Super Bowl contender is incredible. Most teams have a few years of being a fringe playoff team before they contend, but the
Raiders went 12-4 after four straight losing seasons. That alone is cause for excitement. Despite losing the Wild Card game in Houston without Carr and All-Pro lineman Donald Penn, the Raiders still had a successful season. There is a lot to look forward to. Khalil Mack is one of the top defensive players in the game. Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree make a dynamic duo at wide receiver. Jack Del Rio is a candidate for coach of the year. And those are only a few of the many great aspects of this
excellent young team. Carr will be back at 100 percent when the 2017 season begins and he will keep getting better and better. The Raiders will be a popular pick for Super Bowl LII. Now all we have to do is give them a place to play. Jacob Samuels is a senior at Ygnacio Valley High School where he runs cross country and plays for the varsity baseball team. His goal is to attend UC Berkeley next year and major in communications. Email any comments or questions to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
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‡ Up to $600 Free Onboard Spending Money per stateroom is based on voyage length, stateroom type, and applicable to reservations booked and deposited between December 6, 2016 and February 28, 2017, for voyages listed in this sale only. Offer is applicable to first/second-berth guests only and third/fourth-berth guests are not eligible. Guests with single occupancy will receive the per stateroom credit amount. Spending money may be used on a single voyage only, is not redeemable for cash, cannot be used in the casino and expires at the end of that voyage. Offer is not transferable and may not be combinable with other select offers or other onboard credits. Onboard spending money is quoted in U.S. dollars.
‡‡ Free Specialty Dining voucher is applicable to voyages and cruise fares advertised in this promotion only, valid for guests 1 through 4 in a Balcony, Mini-Suite or Suite Stateroom, and is not applicable during the land portion of Cruisetours. Voucher will be delivered to the stateroom upon embarkation. Princess Cruises reserves the right to pre-assign Specialty Dining times. Voucher may be used on a single voyage only, is not redeemable for cash and expires at the end of that voyage. Single stateroom guests will receive ONE specialty dining voucher. Guests 1, 2, 3 & 4 must dine at the same table at the same reserved seating. Offer is not transferable and may not be combinable with other select offers or other onboard credits. In the event that Specialty Dining cannot be offered on a voyage, an additional Onboard Spending Money amount will be added to the stateroom account.
* Fares apply to minimum lead-in categories on a space-available basis at time of booking. Fares for other categories may vary. Fares are per guest, non-air, cruise- or cruisetouronly, based on double occupancy and apply to the first two guests in a stateroom. These fares do not apply to singles or third/fourth-berth guests. Offer has limited space regardless of cabin availability. Fares quoted in U.S. dollars. Note: Voyages sailing 1 - 5 days and 60+ days in duration and select Cruisetours are excluded from onboard spending money and specialty dining offers. Other exclusions may apply.
Offer is available to residents of the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and the District of Columbia who are 21 years of age or older and receive this offer. Offer has limited space regardless of cabin availability. Fares quoted in U.S. dollars.
Please refer to princess.com/sale for terms, conditions and definitions that apply to all bookings.
Offer valid: December 6, 2016 - February 28, 2017. Promo codes: NZA, NVG, and NVH
Note: For assistance reserving a wheelchair-accessible stateroom, please contact customer service at 1-800-774-6237.
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Pruning roses a simple, but necessary, task Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
NiCOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
It’s almost time to prune rose bushes, groundcover roses and rose trees. At the nursery, we prune roses between Super Bowl Sunday and Valentine’s Day. Some folk’s weekly maintenance workers may have already pruned the roses. If that’s the case, check on the job and finetune if needed. Rose pruning is easy. An
annually pruned rose should take less than five minutes to prune. As you approach a rose to prune, look first at the bottom of the plant. The object of pruning is to remove most of the past year’s growth, all the crossing canes and lateral branches. Remove all gray canes. You may have to use a cordless saw to get through thick wood. Don’t worry how thick the canes are, you won’t hurt the bush. A well-pruned hybrid tea, grandiflora or floribunda rose should have 3-5 straight, clean canes without any leaves once you’ve finished. Make all cuts at a slight angle, right before a swelling of growth. If you look closely at a rose cane before you make the cut, you’ll see a seam with a swell. This is where the rose wants to grow. I don’t tell people how many inches of cane to
January 13, 2017
leave. It really depends on the amount of room you have for the rose to grow. If you have limited space, then cut shorter. If you like your roses tall, then don’t cut down as far. Rose trees should be pruned the same way as the floribunda, hybrid tea or grandiflora. Remove old canes, crossing branches and lateral branches. With rose trees, leave more canes so they’ll look fuller. Groundcover roses don’t get the same amount of attention. Prune and fertilize your roses now for a big spring payoff. Reshape groundcover roses, bringing them down and in. If the groundcover roses have Each rose should receive: water-in. grown crazy, I’ll severely prune. ½ c. 16-16-16 fertilizer Don’t premix a batch of With a newer installation, the ½ c. bone meal products. There is a reason for pruning will be lighter. ½ c. granular iron each ingredient and the quantiFertilizing roses is impor½ c. alfalfa meal ty. The 16-16-16 is a multi-purtant. The following recipe is 2 T. Epsom salt pose fertilizer. The bone meal for established ground-grown Work into soil along drip is a source of phosphorus and hybrid tea, grandiflora, flori- line and top-dress with an inch will encourage bloom. Granubunda or tree-shaped roses. layer of chicken manure and lar iron keeps rose leaves green
and free of chlorosis. Alfalfa meal will stimulate new cane growth. Epsom salt intensifies flower color. Container roses get half a dose of each product. For groundcover roses, use only the multi-purpose fertilizer and iron. Apply this recipe now and again in July. If you rely on drip-system watering, hand water twice a week after the July application. Do not use systemic rose 31 fertilizers. Aphids are a part of spring. If you have aphids, your garden will attract the beneficial insects to eat them. No aphids, no beneficial insects.
mixes in just the right amount, and they are eye-popping. The stories of the original films bounced back and forth between silly and dark. Save for some well-timed comedy relief by droid K-2 (Alan Tudyk), Edwards opts for the dark side. As Lucas paid homage to Akira Kurosawa’s “Throne of Blood” with “Episode IV,” Edwards does the same to Kurosawa’s “Seven Samurai.” A rag tag group of people from all walks of life gather together to try to capture the plans (yes, those plans) for the Death Star. Jyn Erso (a fierce, yet lovely Felicity Jones) is the daughter of the Death Star’s creator.
The interiors of the battleships, the uniforms and the weaponry all look archaic, yet at the same time, shiny and new. With the death of Carrie Fisher, people may feel the need to revisit Princess Leia and the rest of the beloved characters. “Rogue One” provides a mix of the old and the new that gives us hope that there will always be more stories to tell. B+
Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. You can contact her with questions or comments by email at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
‘Rogue’ deserves a place in ‘Star Wars’ film family
Most “Star Wars” fans think the original three films signify the high point of the series. When George Lucas decided to re-edit the originals and release three vastly inferior prequels, those new to the series got a raw deal. With the current release schedule for new “Star Wars” movies, it is a great time to get involved with the films. “Rogue One” is the first film in the “Star Wars” universe to be made without an episode number. Yet it finds its place seamlessly within the canon. Director Gareth Edwards (“Godzilla,” 2004) has been a “Star Wars” fan all his life and comes from a visual effects
JEFF mELLiNGER
SCREEN SHOTS
background. Edwards’ fandom shines through as he masterfully blends some of the best elements from the other films in the series. The prequels had some neat effects but often leaned on them heavily. Edwards
With the dual mission of finding her father and stealing the plans, she recruits mysterious Rebel Alliance member Cassian Andor (Diego Luna). Rounding out the crew are exImperial pilot Bodhi (Riz Ahmed), one-with-the-force Imwe (Donnie Yen), his friend, mercenary Baze (Jiang Wen) and K-2. For the first hour, “Star Wars” fans may feel an itch to see something or someone familiar to spark the plot. It is a bit hard to follow as the locations frequently shift and the characters and their motivations are all completely new. However, once Edwards reveals how everything ties
Nancy E. Bennett
into “Episode IV,” the film breathes a little better as the destiny of the characters becomes clear. The final act is a blistering battle both in space and on land. X-wings and TIE fighters swoop in and around battlecruisers, AT-ATs methodically plod around on the ground, and a handful of old characters make appearances – including an extremely poignant one at the end. Shot with beautiful exteriors, the film looks fantastic. Despite almost 40 years between “Rogue One” and “Episode IV,” Edwards makes it look like they could have been filmed simultaneously.
Nancy sells more than 8 times as many homes as the average realtor, call today to learn how!
Quick Steps To Updating Your Home Whether You Are Selling Or Not
The process of getting a property ready to put on the market can seem daunting enough. There’s clearing the clutter, endless amounts of cleaning, organizing and scrutinizing your property with a fine-tooth comb. What needs attention and what can you leave alone? Don’t ignore these seven areas.
1. Structural and mechanical
It might not be glamorous, but buyers are looking at big-ticket items like the age and condition of the roof, air conditioning and heating systems, water heater, electrical panel and pipes. Now, I’m not saying all have to be replaced, but if any of these components are on their last leg, you might seriously need to consider replacing them as these items could factor into the kind of financing the buyer is able to obtain as well as insurability of the property.
2. Exterior
How does the exterior of your home look? Is there any wood rot? When was the last time it was painted? Are there any stucco cracks that need attention? First impressions start from the outside, and the exterior will show up in photos across a multitude of websites, etc. This is definitely an area worth spending the money.
3. Landscaping
Speaking of the exterior, how does your landscaping look? Are the plantings overgrown, worn and wilted? What about the ground cover?
Are the planting beds in need of some fresh mulch, pine straw, rock, etc.? Are there any overgrown tree limbs hanging over the house or blocking the home’s view? For a relatively inexpensive investment, you can transform how your exterior looks by trimming back and freshening things up with new plants and landscaping.
4. Cosmetic
Let’s face it: buyers buy with their eyes, so now is the time to go through the interior in detail. Are there dents and dings on the walls, scratched moldings or worn paint? Now is the time to spruce up the inside with a fresh coat of paint. Pick light, neutral and on-trend colors. Choose a neutral palette that will transition well with any buyer’s furniture. Look at your light fixtures, ceiling fans and light switches — these are relatively inexpensive things to update and replace, yet they go a long way toward creating value. The front door? This is critical! Does it need a fresh coat of paint or new hardware? Consider adding a glass panel to create light that evokes a sunny and warm space.
5. Kitchen
This area is always huge with buyers. Even if the buyers barely know how to boil water, they always envision themselves in the kitchen cooking and entertaining or perhaps auditioning to be the next Food Network TV star surrounded by sleek appliances and cabinetry.
Jeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. He lives in Concord. Email comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com.
Here’s where you need to give them the look for less. Think new hardware on cabinets, adding or changing out a dated tile backsplash and updating appliances. Also, consider changing out counters — you might be able to find a reasonably price remnant of a granite slab.
6. Bathrooms
Simple and clean rules the day. Sprucing up your bathrooms to sell can be as simple as having the grout on the existing tile steam cleaned or regrouting where needed. Caulking, new plumbing and light fixtures along with mirrors can create value.
7. Flooring
What you walk on creates value. If you can only afford to make the investment in one significant part of your home, consider updating the flooring. There are a ton of low-cost options to choose from that include wood plank tiles and highly upgraded laminate flooring — think wide plank, light colored or hand-scraped styles. New flooring can totally transform the look of your space and give it the “wow” factor that buyers desire.
In undertaking for sale preparation, strike a delicate balance between what to fix and what to leave alone, but in the end, make the right improvements that will result in a faster sale for top dollar.
Cara Ameer is a broker associate and Realtor with Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. You can follow her on Facebook or Twitter.
Point Martinez Coming Bay Adorable 3 bed/2 bath bungalow with 3 bed/2 bath home with a HUGE detached 4 car Soon! open layout. Renovations in progress garage! Renovations in progress
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