JAN 15 Clayton Pioneer 2016 by Pioneer Publishers

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www.claytonpioneer.com

HowarD Geller

January 15, 2016

925.672.0500

Save Mount Diablo to purchase majestic North Peak property

MAYOR’S CORNER

Clayton’s in a sweet spot for 2016

Looking back at 2015, Clayton fared quite well. We began and ended the year with a balanced budget and a small surplus. Here are a few highlights of Clayton’s 2015 accomplishments (in no particular order): We produced 10 wellattended Saturday Concerts in the Grove Park and our 2016 Saturday Concert schedule is approved. Clayton was named by two independent studies as the third safest city in California and the 10th best city for young families to settle in Northern California. We honored two Eagle Scouts and are benefiting from their Scout projects in the Clayton Dog Park. Measure “P” passed with 81.25 percent of your votes. This will maintain and operate The Grove Park for 10 more years. The Grove Park tot lot playground’s resilient play surface was replaced and largely paid for by the original installer. We also remodeled the water play feature in The Grove but due to water drought restrictions it cannot be turned on yet.

See Mayor, page 17

2015 in Review: Endings and New Beginnings PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

It was a relatively quiet year in the city of Clayton, punctuated by the clacking of bocce balls in the Ipsen bocce courts and clanking of beer steins at the annual Oktoberfest on Main Street. But the loudest cheers — and boos — came from the local high school, where the off-campus activities of its leaders nearly drowned out the academic and athletic success of the students in the classrooms. It was also a year of goodbyes, as Clayton lost two local stalwarts, as well as a year of new beginnings. The local fire station reopened to much fanfare, a new residential

See 2015 Review, pg 18

GraPHiC

CourTeSy of

Save MouNT Diablo

SAVE MOUNT DIABLO (SMD) AN OPTION TO PURCHASE THIS 88.5-ACRE NORTH PEAK RANCH from Steve and brenda benkly for $1.1 million. The property rises from Marsh Creek road just east of Clayton onto the slopes of North Peak, Mount Diablo’s second tallest and more rugged peak. it shares a boundary with Mount Diablo State Park. MONICA RUCK Special to the Pioneer

The heavily wooded and scenic North Peak Ranch is one of the most beautiful parcels in the Mount Diablo foothills. With a small canyon that climbs up onto the slopes of rocky North Peak, and divides around several knolls, it is a hikers paradise. Two tributary creeks drop down the steep slopes over moss-covered rocky cataracts and small grottos then meet Mount Diablo Creek just off-site. Further downstream, Mount Diablo Creek crosses the northwest corner of the parcel.

Now, thanks to an agreement between Save Mount Diablo and owners Steve and Brenda Benkly, the parcel will be preserved for generations to come. SMD last week signed a 10year option agreement to purchase 88.5-acre North Peak Ranch for approximately $1.1 million. The property rises from Marsh Creek Road just east of Clayton onto the slopes of North Peak, Mount Diablo’s second tallest and more rugged peak. It shares a boundary with Mount Diablo State Park. “The property is really special,” said Benkly. “We have Muir Woods in our back yard.

One area has big green ferns, vivid green moss, and during the winter months a waterfall just a few hundred yards behind the house. Every day we wake up, look out our back window at North Peak and just count our blessings.”

FUNDRAISING NEEDED The couple appreciated their property so much that they wanted to make sure others could, too. “We are so appreciative of Steve and Brenda Benkly,” said Ted Clement, Executive Director of Save Mount Diablo. “They

See SMD, page 2

heinphoto.com

HEAVILY FORESTED HILLS FORM A BACKDROP FOR STEVE AND BRENDA BENKLY, Clayton ranchers who are selling their North Peak ranch to Save Mount Diablo.

Community bids farewell to Katie Grace TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

The DVMS gym was filled to capacity last Sunday when more than 500 turned out to celebrate the short life of 13-year-old Katie Grace Groebner who lost her fight against pulmonary hypertension on Christmas Day. Friends, family and community members remembered a brave little girl with an infectious giggle and big eyes who faced her disease and her future with optimism and joy. Katie was six when she was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension—a rare disease that went undiagnosed during her early years. Knowing Katie Grace would need medical care beyond what they could get in their home state of Minnesota, the family sold their home, packed up everything in their RV

Tamara Steiner

KATIE GRACE GROEBNER

and headed to the Bay Area and Stanford’s Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital. John Groebner had a job waiting in Concord and the family settled in Clayton

where they were embraced by the close knit congregation at Clayton Community Church. For the next six years, Katie Grace’s mother, Kathy, learned as much as she could about pulmonary hypertension, all the while watching as the disease was slowly claiming Katie Grace’s lungs. By June 2014, when Katie Grace was near death, the family received a middle-of-the-night call from Stanford—they had a match. On the day before Father’s Day, Katie Grace received a new heart and two healthy lungs in a rare and risky multiple-organ transplant. Initially, she thrived. Just weeks after her surgery, she was swimming and playing without the cumbersome backpack that had contained her oxygen and life-sustaining drugs. The playground was her favorite place. Sleepovers with friends and

pizza parties were common. But, the success was shortlived. Early in the summer of 2015, she began having breathing problems. Infections set in and by September, Katie Grace was back in the hospital. Her body was rejecting the new lungs and she was too sick to survive another transplant. Katie Grace breathed her last on Christmas Day surrounded by her family. Just as they had embraced Katie Grace during her life, the CCC community and the Groebners’ friends stepped up to organize her memorial. CCC pastor, Shawn Robinson officiated the two-hour service that included prayer, poetry, reflections and music by the CCC Worship Team, CVCHS Women’s Ensemble, CVCHS alum and Katie Grace’s close friend, Kyle Metz. Katie Grace was born July

16, 2002 in Mankato, Minn. She is survived by her parents, John and Kathy Groebner, sisters Savahna Hope Groebner, Summer Nichole Hineline and Kristiena Faith Manbeck and her grandmothers Eileen Kelly and Janet Groebner. Memorial donations can be made for pulmonary hypertension research at 222.phaware.global/donate. Financial gifts can also be made to help the Groebner family during transition. Go to www.gofundme.com/katiesfarewell. The family also encourages those who can to sign up as an organ donor.

What’s Inside

Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Community Calendar . . . . .13 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 School News . . . . . . . . . . .14

Postal Customer ECRWSS

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Around Town

CV alum heads to basic training in Oklahoma

Army basic training in Oklahoma. He enlisted in the U. S. Army for six years. After basic training, he will be stationed in Texas and trained as an analyst. His goal in the Army is to enter the warrant officer program and become a helicopter pilot. Zachary is the son of Jerry and Gina Shaman. Zachary worked for Lafayette as a police cadet after graduating from Clayton Valley Charter High School in 2013. He spent his free time working on BMWs and crewing ZACHARY SHAMAN for his uncle, Lance Boicelli, at the 25 Hours endurance Clayton resident Zachary race in Willows for the last Shaman leaves on Jan. 17 for six years.

SMD, from page 1

CCWD Board President Joseph Campbell retires

After 24 years on the board, Clayton resident Joseph L. Campbell announced his retirement as president JOSEPH L. of the Contra CAMPBELL Costa Water District Board of Directors at the board meeting on Jan. 6. Campbell will retire March 1 and will be residing outside of the service area. In his 24 years of service, Campbell never missed a meeting. He represented residents of eastern Concord, Clayton and part of Walnut Creek and Pleas-

ant Hill and has been president of the board for the majority of those years. Campbell was elected to the Board of Directors in 1991, but was an active voice on water issues for decades before. He brought a business and construction background ensuring the District was making informed decisions about assets and infrastructure investments. He also brought his dedication to the community and held the District to its responsibility to conduct its business in an open and transparent manner. With this vacancy, the Board will decide whether to fill the Division 3 seat by appointment or election.

Pioneer spends Thanksgiving in Morocco

Clayton resident, Sue Elliott, carried us along as she crossed the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco after camping in the Sahara Desert and before shopping in the souks of Marrakesh in November and December. Elliott says, “Thanksgiving in a different country makes a traveler thankful and happy to learn about the Moroccan culture and religion and to enjoy all of the beautiful sites.” The Pioneer wants to know about your anniversaries, weddings, engagements, births, awards and milestones. Please send a short description of your event, a high-resolution photo and your contact info to editor@claytonpioneer.com

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SMD about purchasing most of the property. A deal was reached to option the property in 10 small, annual, gradually increasing payments that will be applied to the overall purchase price at the end of the ten years. The Benklys will retain just over six acres acres and continue to live in their small 1,200 square-foot farmhouse, built in 1924. SMD is also acquiring right of first refusal on that smaller parcel where the Benklys will continue to live. Besides the slopes and canyon, a robust set of fire roads zigzag up-slope through blue oak woodland and past a large developed spring near the southern border and toward the Three Springs area of Mount Diablo State Park. Ultimately. North Peak Ranch should be part of Mount Diablo State Park. First, however, the State Park system must begin accepting new lands again. Hopefully the issue will be resolved in the near future and within the ten year option period, SMD executives say. With the Benklys’ permission SMD will soon hold several introductory walks on the property, and one or two per year until the acquisition is complete. However, North DIDN’T WANT Peak Ranch is privately A SUBDIVISION owned until SMD completes At one time it might have the purchase, so it is not been subdivided into five- open to the public at this acre parcels. The Benklys, time. however, had no interest in seeing the beautiful parcel For more information on North developed. “I’m a builder,” Peak Ranch and SMD’s fundraisBenkly said. “We’ve seen the ing campaign, contact Save Mount area get over-developed and Diablo at 925-947-3535, 925we didn’t want to see this 947-0642 (fax) or in person at beautiful parcel developed 1901 Olympic Blvd., Suite 320, into four or five houses.” Walnut Creek. Or visit www.SaveThe couple approached MountDiablo.org.

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want to protect their beautiful property on North Peak, and are giving us the time to raise funds to do so.” The timing of the purchase is critical, according to Scott Hein, SMD Board president. “We are still working really hard on securing capital for our Curry Canyon Ranch project, as well as other important initiatives. This way, we can carry out a thoughtful and comprehensive fundraising strategy that ensures that both of these properties are protected in perpetuity.” SMD was in negotiations to purchase the property in 2000 from a previous owner when the Benklys purchased it instead. SMD and the Benklys got to know each other and kept in touch. The Benklys even began volunteering at SMD events. North Peak Ranch was on SMD’s original priority acquisition list in 1972, given its location on one of Diablo’s main peaks. It’s highly visible, rising from 650 feet to 1260 feet, and has important resources, including a band of serpentine mineral soils associated with a number of rare plant species. The property could be used in the future for a staging area to access North Peak.

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CEMEX applies to change reclamation permit January 15, 2016

PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

It was a cold and drizzly November morning when more than 70 residents joined Save Mount Diablo to trek up to the CEMEX Quarry on Mt. Zion, just above Mitchell Canyon Road, to see what the future holds —literally. CEMEX is currently mining the quarry, but several groups, including SMD, the City of Clayton and Contra Costa County, are concerned because the company wants to change its reclamation permit after the mining is done. The current permit states that the quarry would be partially refilled with dirt. The supposed new permit proposes deepening the quarry pit by 200 feet and letting it fill with water over about 73 years to create a 450-foot-

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

deep “lake.” Whatever is proposed, this process could take decades, and things could change. Dominic Aliano, District Representative for Supervisor Karen Mitchoff ’s office, says that he is waiting to hear back from CEMEX with a new proposal before the county can pursue options, such as issuing an Environmental Impact Report. Ronald Wilson, Resource Manager for CEMEX’s Northern California and Northern Nevada divisions, says that his company is in the process of finalizing the permit proposal, and is taking into consideration input from such agencies as SMD, the City of Clayton and the county. The process could take up to two months, he said. Wilson said his company is also planning another community meeting to hear

issues and concerns of residents. SMD is urging the county to issue a new EIR on the proposal, when it is released, and to make sure impacts are offset by benefits. It and other residents are concerned because the quarry lies right next to Mount Diablo State Park, popular hiking trails, Mitchell Creek, and causes noise, dust and other impacts to the environment, park users and neighbors. Rare wildlife may suffer ongoing impacts from the quarry, and quarry trucks produce greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, noise and traffic that affect the park and neighbors.

son who receives district-provided emergency medical first-responder services during a single incident. According to ECCFPD Chief Hugh Henderson, the fee will raise about $600,000 a year. No one will be denied emergency service because of an inability to pay. ECCFPD, has been bleeding red ink for years. A recession, a real estate crash and declining property tax revenue has forced the district to close stations and now threatens to leave the entire east county without fire protection. Prior efforts in 2014 and 2015 to increase revenue

through a parcel tax or special benefit assessment failed with voters. Following the failure of the parcel tax in 2014, the district closed the downtown Brentwood station, and last year, the Knightsen station was shuttered, leaving just three stations to cover 110,000 residents over 250 square miles. The understaffed district has been relying on federal SAFER grants and mutual aid agreements with neighboring districts for backup. But, last year, the grants ran out and Contra Costa Fire Protection District has put East County on notice that they cannot

Page 3

For more information and updates on the project, visit www.savemountdiablo.org/lands_ NEIGHBORS OF THE CEMEX QUARRY ON MITCHELL CANYON RD. joined Save Mount Diablo’s landuse_CEMEX. Seth adams to see and hear what changes the company is proposing in their application

to extend the current permit and allow for an open lake at the end of mining operations.

East Contra Costa Fire proposes First Responder Fee TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

East Contra Costa Fire Protection District is proposing to levy a $337 First Responder Fee on those who receive emergency medical service by the fire district. Last year, 78 percent of the 6,300 calls for service were for medical-related emergencies. The district will hold a public hearing on Feb. 1 for the proposed ordinance. The fee will help pay for the recent 5 percent EMT pay raise approved on Dec. 28 at a special board meeting, and will be charged to each per-

continue to cover the understaffed district. Fire protection in the Marsh Creek/Morgan Territory area is covered by the state of California (CalFire). During the fire season from April/May through November, staffing of the Sunshine Station on Marsh Creek Road is paid for by the state. The rest of the year, East County pays CalFire approximately $400,000 for fire protection under an “Amador” contract. According to Henderson, the Amador contract is the most cost effective way that the District can fire protection service to the high risk area.

“We [ECCFPD] can’t serve that area during the non-fire season for that amount,” Henderson said. “As long as I am chief, I will continue to recommend the contract,” noting that the District cannot operate the Sunshine station for less than the $400,000 it pays CalFire. A one-time $1.35 million bailout by the county and the cities of Brentwood and Oakley will allow the district to reopen the Knightsen station and keep the district operating for another year and a half. During this time, the district must reorganize to form an independent dis-

trict, move from an appointed board to an elected one and come up with a longterm revenue strategy that the voters will approve. A task force comprised of representatives from the County Board of Supervisors, the ECCFPD labor unions, CCCFPD and the cities of Brentwood and Oakley have been charged with the restructuring. The Public Hearing on the First Responder Fee will be on Mon., Feb. 01, 2016 at 6:30 pm, City of Oakley - City Hall, 3231 Main Street, Oakley. To read the complete staff report, go to www.eccfpd.org.

We wish you a wonderful 2016 filled with Peace, Love and Prosperity.

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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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CHriS weNzel

CHIEF’S BEAT

As we move into 2016, the Clayton Police Department continues to look at ways where we can provide the best possible service, whether it be reviewing crime statistics or planning new services. Right now I am doing both. The first quarter of every year I look back at the past year statistics to see what the crime trends are and how we can forecast and identify areas of concern. For 2015, I can predict we

had an increase in our property crimes. As we move forward in 2016 we will try to develop ways where we can improve in our community awareness, look at technology to assist us to deter or apprehend offenders, and improve on our core function, which is service to the community. The officers here in Clayton have dedicated themselves to provide service with distinction. I have heard many compliments from our citizens regarding the service provided by my staff and it makes me proud to serve here. Yet I also know that there are challenges ahead of us that will need to be addressed and with the community’s help we will succeed. In the first quarter of this year I would like to rebuild our volunteer program so that we are able to provide some additional “quality of life” service plus improve on our Neighborhood Watch and crime prevention concerns. Volunteers

Club News

Rib Cook-off seeks new location

are a valuable resource and having this extra staff will assist in quality of life issues, special events, crime prevention, adult and children’s education and our office duties at the police department. There are numerous duties that need to be accomplished but can be tedious in nature. Having this extra help can build a partnership of excellence for the community as well as having a group of individuals learning how law enforcement provides for its citizens. We are in the process of building this opportunity now as we work towards this goal. Our community is based on the positive involvement and service provided. I hope to have an outline ready by my next article. Happy New Year! Chris Wenzel is Chief of Police of Clayton. Send questions and comments to chris.wenzel@claytonpd.com or call (925) 673-7350

St. Bonaventure offers grief support St. Bonaventure Catholic Community is offering another six-week workshop beginning Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2016, for those whose loved one has died. The death of a loved one is unlike any other loss. Whether the death was sudden and tragic, or one with warning and preparation, the reality of death leaves most of us shocked, confused and sad. If you or someone you

know is grieving the death of a loved one, the Healing the Heart grief companions offer a safe place to express grief and begin healing after the loss. The ministry recognizes that each person’s grief is unique. These feelings may linger for years. Healing the Heart Grief Companions, who facilitate the workshop, have also lost someone who is dear to them and know the value of having

someone listen with their heart.

PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

Plans for a 2016 Clayton Business and Community Association-sponsored Rib Cook-off are smoldering, but have yet to catch fire because of changes to the popular annual event. In September, the Clayton Club Saloon, ground zero for the annual culinary bonanza, announced it would no longer host the event. "It had outgrown us," says Clayton Club owner Steve Barton. "It's time to let it go and grow." A plan by organizer Rory Richmond to extend the event nationally, and get the backing of the powerful Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) was tabled — at least for this year — by the CBCA because there were too many unanswered questions at this time , such as a new location. However, CBCA President Bob Steiner Gary Carr said that the group supports keeping the rib Cook-off chairman, rory richmond event for 2016, using past models, and perhopes to take the annual CbCa event nahaps adding a booth to sell alcohol, which tional in coming years. would help raise money for the CBCA. "We hope there will be a cook-off," Steinand Wine Festival and Oktoberfest, and have er said. "It just isn't nailed down yet." the contestants line Main Street. But as of One idea being tossed around is to model yet, no specific plans are approved. it like other successful CBCA events, the Art

Seeking to exhibit artwork?

There is a call for art by the Creekside Artists Guild for two new exhibits. Contact Lois Willhite at loisa392@astound.net for the Jan. 23 exhibit at the mini gallery at Cup o’ Jo’s, 6054 Main St., Clayton. Contact Renaye Johnson at doublera@aol.com for the Jan. 29 exhibit at the Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. Join the guild on the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Story Room at the Clayton Library.

The workshop runs from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Rd. in Concord. Call Helene Billeci at 925686-4870 or email healingtheheart@stbonaventure.net for more information and to register. There is CASA donation The Clayton Valley no cost to attend the workshop, but registration is required by Jan. 14, Woman’s Club donated to Court Appointed Special 2016. Advocates (CASA) at the club’s holiday luncheon on Dec. 8 at Oakhurst Country Club in Clayton. Club mem-

Clayton valley woman’s Club

Nancy E. Bennett 111 Woodsworth Lane, Pleasant Hill

January 15, 2016

PEN

bers gave Target gift cards totaling nearly $900 to be distributed to pre-teens and teenagers at the CASA Christmas party. Entertainment was provided by local four-voice a cappella group LA DI DA.

DIN

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We helped over 85 families buy and sell homes again in 2015. How can we help you and your family today?

THE CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB presented their donation to Charles Mead, executive director of CaSa, at the luncheon. Mead is shown here with woman’s Club President, Connie weimar.

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The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club is made up of communityminded women dedicated to meeting the needs of community and nurturing friendships within the club. Meetings are at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month, except July and August, at Saint John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. Guests are welcome to attend meetings and social events. For more information, call Sheila at 672-7947 or go to claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

Super Sharp 4 bedroom, 2 bath, Cape Cod home in Canterbury Village, Concord. Remodeled and Updated throughout! Call for details. Offered at $517,000

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Guest Speaker The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club welcomes Joan Morris as their guest speaker at the monthly meeting, 10 a.m., Feb. 9, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in JOAN Clayton. MORRIS Morris will be talking about ways to coexist with wildlife in the garden. She is the pets and wildlife columnist as well as garden writer for the Bay Area News Group. Read her articles daily in the Contra Costa Times.

CalBRE# 01874255

Senior Real Estate Specialist Accredited Staging Professional

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Concord Hills park moves closer to public use January 15, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

It may seem like the process has been going on forever (actually since 1999) but the conversion of the Concord Naval Weapons Station really is moving closer to reality. This year will see a final plan for the Concord Hills Regional Park, approved with the East Bay Regional Park District, moving forward by opening the land to the public. EBRPD expects to have its portion of the project converted to them by the end of 2016 from the Navy through the National Park Service. With that timeline in mind the district held its second public meeting recently at Concord Senior Center, which included a report on the project’s background and current status. Then they conducted a group exercise where six tables of local citizens weighed the attributes of the two alternate design concepts EBRPD has developed. The entire area of the CNWS property which will be turned over from the Navy is 5,046 acres, with the EBPRD taking 2,537 of that for the regional park. The property essentially runs from Highway 4 south past Bailey Road to just an acre or so from Kirker Pass Road. The City of Concord development portion projects to include as many as 12,000 housing units, 6.1 million square feet of commercial space and 786 acres of parks, greenways and open space. RESIDENTS RECEPTIVE TO PLANS

EBPRD principal planner Brian Holt was delighted after the meeting with how receptive

the groups were to the two plans and valued their input in moving toward the final plan. The major park goals from EBRPD are for resource preservation, public access and circulation to the park and (largely passive) recreational uses. Additionally, they want to memorialize the cultural and natural history of the land — 6000 years of living in the area — including the more recent tragic World War II Port Chicago disaster. Input at the meeting included adding more picnic tables, ensuring plenty of trails, making some remote camping areas and looking at access from BART to the park. The timetable laid out at the meeting is for the draft park land use plan to be presented early this year followed by an environmental review leading to the adoption of the final land use plan next fall. Holt says that Concord Hills Regional Park is “a working name and as a part of the planning process we are soliciting feedback on names and plan to adopt a name with the final land use plan.” The property that EBPRD will manage ranges from 100 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Plans call for it to be mostly kept in its current state with native grasslands. They will utilize an existing building as the Visitor Center. There are 80 magazines (bunkers) on the land along with 17.7 miles of paved roads, 25.3 miles of dirt roads and 14.5 miles of railroad tracks, plus Contra Costa and Clayton lateral canals. Holt says the district goal is to keep the parkland accessible to the public, including the critical linkage for trails and regional open space. One of the major benefits

Page 5

“not tied to city development.” That portion of the project that Concord is responsible for has been clouded in controversy since late September, when one of two finalists for CNWS master developer, Catellus Development Corp., claimed that the other firm, Lennar Urban, had been engaged in PARK, CITY DEVELOPMENT improper lobbying and Brown SEPARATE Act violations. The subsequent Holt explains that the suicide of Concord City Attorprocess for the regional park is ney Mark Coon led to post-

ponement of the selection of a developer. Concord Interim City Attorney Brian Libow announced that Michael Jenkins of the law firm of Jenkins & Hogin will act as special investigator into allegations of improper lobbying and Brown Act violations in the selection process. “I wanted someone with absolutely no connection with Catellus, no connection with Lennar, and no connec-

tion with the City of Concord or any potential witnesses,” said Libow. “Mr. Jenkins brings an unquestioned integrity to the investigative process. He is perhaps the preeminent Brown Act expert in the State of California.”

It’s another wet January morning. Millions of Californians are looking out their windows with fingers crossed, hopeful that these recent El Niño-influenced storms are just the beginning jabs to the midsection of our Goliath-like drought. Gentle rainfalls like the one that morning can be mesmerizing. Along the sidewalks umbrellas pop up like black spring flowers. Runoff flows gently down the street, hopefully on its way to drought-starved lakes and reservoirs. It’s been a long time since we’ve enjoyed a wet first month of the year. Normally our area sees around 13 days with some measureable rain this month. Last January we broke a record with zero days of rainfall, and during the January before that only one day of rain was reported. Now that strong El Niño conditions have developed over the tropical Pacific, meteorologists have been anticipating changes in the jet stream that would open the

snow to soak up additional moisture when warmer rains fall later in the season. The results of California’s first snow survey of the 2015-2016 water year are encouraging. Many stations report above normal snow depth and snow water content for the first time in several years. The storms we’ve experienced so far this January are warmer than last month’s. With more of an El Niñolike signature, recent storms have moved across the central Pacific towards the west coast. These systems tend to be closer spaced in time with higher moisture content, again great news for the drought weary. Current weather forecast models indicate that wetter than normal conditions are likely to persist in our area through the end of this month. Even better news is that longer range weather models continue to predict wetter than normal conditions through the end March, especially for central and

southern California. Usually the bulk of our winter season rainfall occurs by the end of March. It will be interesting to see the results of the April snow survey since summer water management projections are based on that data. If the weather forecasts hold true, it could make a significant dent in the rainfall deficit we’ve experienced over the last few years. I feel optimistic, for now anyhow. Soon enough this El Niño will dissipate and we will start focusing on expectations for future winters. It’s raining again as I finish this article, a bit harder than before. It’s easy to imagine Gene Kelley dancing down the street singing: “I’m singin’ in the rain, just singin’ in the rain. What a glorious feeling, I’m happy again.”

of Concord Hills Park will be to connect existing regional trails and open space including the Contra Costa Canal to Delta de Anza Regional Trail, San Juan Bautista de Anza Historic Trail, Black Diamond Mines Regional Park and Mt. Diablo State Park.

Numerous reports and resources for Concord Hills Regional Park area available online at www.ebparks.org/page539.aspx.

El Niño says ‘hello’ to California

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WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS

winter storm door over California. Fortunately, a major shift in our weather pattern started in December 2015, when several cold and wet storms crossed into California. Ski resort operators and skiers began breathing collective sighs of relief as snow began falling in the Sierra. One benefit of cold storms is that the flakes tend to be powdery, resulting in optimal skiing conditions. Water managers also see benefits in the powdery snowfall. That type of snowpack allows for plenty of absorption, allowing the

Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist retired from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

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Would you live near Donald Trump? Q. Which celebrities would people most like to live next door to? A. Zillow did their annual survey this year asking U.S. adults with whom they would or wouldn’t want to share a fence. Taylor Swift was the top choice for a celebrity neighbor in 2016, earning 12 percent of the surveyed adults’ votes, up from her third place finish last year. She was especially favorable among millennials, receiving 17 percent of their vote. Actress Jennifer Lawrence and comedian Amy Schumer rounded out the top three positions, earning 11 percent and 9 percent of votes, respectively. All three women were equally as popular among male and female voters . Outspoken Republican candidate Donald Trump tops this year’s list for worst neighbor. Trump earned 24 percent of total votes for worst neighbor, but was espe-

The time is NOW

cent). Democratic presidential candidate, Hillary Clinton, finished fourth with 11 percent of votes. Thirty-four percent of surveyed adults said they would not want to live next to any of the celebrities listed in the poll.

lyNNe freNCH

REAL ANSWERS

cially disliked by females (27 percent) and millennials (33 percent) polled. Kim Kardashian and Kanye West came in second with 22 percent of the votes narrowly defeating last year’s worst neighbor, Justin Beiber, who ranked third this year (18 per-

Q. Though we live in a pretty low crime area, I’m just curious how much a murder in the area affects home prices. A. Homicides wipe a whopping $2.3 billion off the U.S. property market every year. Finder.com has calculated the impact of murders on property prices across the United States. The thing that was shocking to me is that

California has the highest number of homicides in the country. There were 1697 homicides with a potential value drop of $17,472 on average. Estimated total market loss was $566,664,412. Second was New Jersey, then New York. Not only are people creeped out by the thought that someone has been killed, a murder creates a perception that the area is generally less safe and has a higher crime rate. 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.

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Do you know what a graphics card is and how it affects your computer choices? Certainly you get the idea that graphics hardware, i.e. chips and cards, push images to your monitor, screen or display. Usually one associates graphics with computer aided design (CAD), commercial graphic art and high intensity games and not with everyday displays like the Internet and movies. The TV and movie industry have gone way past hi-def and Blu-Ray and is quickly adopting a format called 4k. If you’ve seen a football game in regular definition, and seen the same game in hi-def you know there is an amazing difference. 4k takes it a step further — now not only can you actually see the players, you can see them sweat. Graphics cards called GPUs, graphic processor units or graphic chips, are just like your CPU except they handle the images displayed on your screen or monitor. The CPU handles the programs and applications, the GPU displays the images they produce. In the old days (I believe that was last week) the GPU was part of a “chipset.” That means it was one piece in a set of chips that make up the core of the computer. Today we have SoC — or whole Systems on a Chip — that are reducing the total number of chips down to one or two

chips. All this progress and miniaturization is great because we can pack more power into smaller spaces. Tablets and laptops have been the big benefactor of integrated GPUs and image detail has been enhanced. In other words, it looks better. One might think that’s the end of this story. Well, hold on to your hats. I get the question frequently, that if graphic chips have made so much progress for laptops then they should be good for games and other displays, right? If the game is Tetris or cards, or the application is QuickBooks, then you’re okay. If the game you play is Final Fantasy, WarGaming, Call of Duty, Fallout 4 or other high-end games, or you edit photos, video, etc., then the graphic performance in a tablet/laptop will not measure up. All popular new games require high-end graphic cards because of the detail now demanded by the users. The Internet and other applications now need higher graphic power as well. “I don’t play games,” is usually the response I get. Well, yes you do in a way. The same graphics resource

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requirements for games are now needed for high-end video and movies. This means that even though tablet/laptop graphics has improved greatly, it isn’t enough. That’s why CAD users, high end gamers and graphic artists use desktops. The development of GPUs (discrete graphic cards – meaning not integrated into the chipset) has been as robust as the improvements for tablets/laptops. The difference is the desktop versions are physically large because they contain three to 10 times the display ability of the tablet/desktop. Discrete graphic cards (plug in card) take up space in your desktop so they can dissipate the heat created by such graphic power. This space isn’t available in a tablet/laptop. In summation, graphics displays have made incredible progress over the years and smaller devices like tablets and laptops have benefited greatly. Evermore demand for detail, crispness and clarity in TV, Internet and games applications will stress a tablet or laptop, whereas a desktop can follow the trends by adding the latest innovations with a plug in card, but the tablet/laptop cannot.

William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to will@claytonpioneer.com.

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January 15, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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

TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor S TAFF W RITERS : Peggy Spear, Pamela Wiesendanger, Jay Bedecarré

C ORRESPONDENTS : John Jackson, Kara Navolio, Patricia Romero, John T. Miller

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

PIONEER INFO CONTACT US

Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 www.ClaytonPioneer.com

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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.

CIRCULATION as of Sept. 2014 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 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.

Clayton Police Activity Report Police Activity for three weeks ending Jan. 7, 2016

ACCIDENTS: Dec. 24, Windmill Canyon Dr./Keller Ridge Dr. Dec. 26, 6100 Clayton Rd. Jan. 1, Clayton Rd./Washington Blvd. ARRESTS: Dec. 19, 1500 Kirker Pass Rd. DUI. 44 year-old Concord male.

BURGLARIES/THEFTS: Dec. 23, Verna Wy. Petty Theft. Dec. 27, Condor Pl. Burglary – Residential. Dec. 23, Leo Ln./Olive Dr. Dec. 28, Peacock Creek Dr. DUI. 33-year-old Concord Burglary – Commercial. male. Dec. 29, 5400 Clayton Rd. Petty Theft. Dec. 26, 6100 Clayton Rd. Dec. 31, Bettencourt Dr. DUI: Alcohol; Evading Peace Grand Theft. Officer; Drive While License Jan. 6, Nottingham Pl. Suspended for DUI; ProbaBurglary-Vehicle. tion Violation. 24-year-old Jan. 6, Joscolo Wy. Concord male. Petty Theft. Jan. 7, Long Creek Cir. Dec. 27, Bridlewood Ct. Petty Theft. Threaten Crime With Intent to Jan. 7, Jeffery Ranch Ct. Terrorize. 49-year-old PleasPetty Theft. ant Hill male.

Jan. 1, Clayton Rd./Washing- VANDALISMS: ton Blvd. DUI: Alcohol; DUI Alcohol: Over .08%; Traffic Dec. 24, Mountaire Pkwy. Accident – No Injuries. 25Dec. 24, Mt. Washington Wy. year-old Clayton female.

Advertise in the Pioneer. Call 925-672-0500

Walk, ride or gallop on EBRPD Trails Challenge

NeD MCKay

PARK IT

One of the great features of the brand new year in the East Bay Regional Parks is its Trails Challenge, the district’s free self-guided program encouraging hikers, cyclists and equestrians to discover new regional parks while improving their fitness and health. This is the 23rd year of the program, which the district offers in conjunction with the EBRB Foundation and Kaiser Foundation. And this year participation is easier than ever. Registration is no longer required. All interested outdoors-people have to do is download the Trails Challenge 2016 guidebook and trail log from the park district

web site, www.ebparks.org. Then pick a trail and start hiking, riding or bicycling. To complete the challenge, travel any five of the listed trails – or 26.2 miles of trail – by Dec. 1, 2016, and submit your log to receive a commemorative pin, while supplies last. It’s all on the honor system. The park district will take your word for it that you actually walked the walk. Trails Challenge tee-shirts and printed copies of the guidebook are free and will be available while supplies last beginning Feb. 1 at some visitor centers and at park district headquarters, 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland. Trails that are part of the challenge are located throughout the park district and range in difficulty, from easy to strenuous, so there is something for all levels of ability. Here are some examples: There are easy Challenge trails at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley, Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline in Martinez, Quarry Lakes in Fremont and Dublin Hills in Dublin. The longest

Jan. 7, Kirker Pass Rd. Possess Controlled Substance; Possess controlled Substance Paraphernalia; Possession of a Knife. 40-year-old transient female.

of these is 6.12 flat miles at Big Break. Trails of moderate difficulty are listed at Round Valley in Brentwood, Carquinez Strait again, Sobrante Ridge in Richmond, Tilden Nature Area in Berkeley and Anthony Chabot Regional Park in Oakland. The longest trek is at Round Valley: four-and three-quarters miles. The strenuous list includes nearly eight miles at Black Diamond Mines in Antioch, 10.47 miles at Briones near Martinez, and an 11-mile loop at Sunol Regional Wilderness south of Sunol. Besides detailed descriptions of these and other trails, the guidebook contains lots of other really useful information. There’s an equipment checklist, instructions on using map and compass, how to interact with wildlife, hiking with dogs and kids, and safety tips. The Trails Challenge is a great incentive to get out and explore the regional parks.

Where to go for LOCAL news

For the latest police action, traffic jams and emergency info, social media and local blogs are good sources of breaking news. For in-depth coverage of local news, readers turn to their independently owned community newspapers. With news that people care about – local politics, schools, sports, events and stories about their friends and neighbors, the community newspaper is social media the old fashioned way. Here are the community newspapers for your neighborhood:

Clayton

Clayton Pioneer claytonpioneer.com

Concord

Concord Pioneer concordpioneer.com

Pleasant Hill, Martinez

Community Focus ourcommunityfocus.com

Lafayette, Orinda & Moraga Lamorinda Weekly lamorindaweekly.com

San Ramon, Danville, & Alamo

Ned McKay is Public InformationSupervisor for EBRPD. Email Valley Sentinel him at nedmackay@comcast.net valleysentinel.com

Page 7

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Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 15, 2016

CV football season ends one win shy of state title again JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

California’s high school football season came to an end in Sacramento last month with Clayton Valley Charter coming up a little short in the State CIF Bowl game for the second successive year. At the same venue De La Salle climbed to the top of the state’s prep football mountain for the seventh

time in the 10 years of the renewed California bowl games. The Eagles lost to Narbonne of Harbor City 28-14 in the new Division I-A finals while De La Salle captured the Open Division title with a 2821 victory over Centennial of Corona in a rematch of last year’s finale. Clayton Valley Charter has experienced unprecedented

Jason Rogers photo

JAKE PERALTA (32) WAS A DEFENSIVE STANDOUT FOR THE CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER FOOTBALL TEAM the past two seasons including wining league Defensive MVP honors this year. Due to a slew of injuries at the quarterback position by the time of the State Bowl game against Narbonne he was also playing QB for the Eagles, who came up short in the state finals for the second year in a row. Photo courtesy Phillip Walton/SportStars Magazine

THIRD-YEAR HEAD COACH JUSTIN ALUMBAUGH (right) and offensive assistant Joe Aliotti celebrate De La Salle’s seventh state championship following the 28-21 win at Sacramento State Hornet Stadium over the nation’s No. 1 ranked team Centennial of Corona. The Spartans began the season ranked No1 in America and following the state championship game they were back in that perch of the MaxPreps national poll.

Clayton Valley Charter on National TV in September

Clayton Valley Charter will be playing in the Honor Bowl Sept. 3 against Don Bosco Prep of Ramsey, NJ. The high school football game will be televised nationally on Fox Sports, CVCHS coach Tim Murphy announced. The 4 p.m. kickoff in Mission Viejo will precede the final game of the day featuring IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) against Centennial of Corona which has lost to De La Salle the last two years in the State championship game. Don Bosco Prep was ranked No. 1 in America in 2010 and 2011. Over the six seasons from 2006-2011 they were 701 including home and home wins over DeLa Salle in 2008 and 2009.. CVCHS played in the Honor Bowl two years ago in Sacramento defeating Carson of Nevada.

success over the past four years under head coach Tim Murphy and his high-powered winggun offense. This year looked to be more of the same with seniors running back Ray Jackson and quarterback Luis Ramos leading the team through the regular season to an 8-1 record only losing 27-26 to defending state champion Folsom in its opener. The Eagles won their fourth straight Diablo Valley Athletic League title and seemed primed to win its third North Coast Section crown in four years. Then injuries began to take their toll. All-league QB Ramos was injured in the NCS opener and never played again. Jackson was dinged up twice in the second half of the season and saw his per carry average dip as he continued to play hurt through the playoffs. Despite the injuries on offense the Eagles junior-laden defense, led by league defensive MVP Jake Peralta, proved

vital as the team won the NCS title 23-22 over rival Concord and then took its second straight Northern California Bowl game championship 21-3 over Oak Grove of San Jose. That put the Concord school back in the state limelight against Southern California powerhouse Narbonne. By then, backup quarterback Zia Rahmany was also injured and unavailable. Up stepped Peralta who didn’t have a single rushing attempt all year until the playoffs. Murphy put him in the shotgun and Peralta carried 27 times for 123 yards against Narbonne while Jackson gained 139 from scrimmage. Clayton Valley dominated possession but gave up three quick Narbonne touchdown drives and eventually fell a win short of a first-ever state title. “I couldn’t be more proud of our seniors. This class is the first to go through our program for four years. The seniors were good representatives

of our program, gave great effort and also kept up their grades in the classroom,” Murphy said. By the end of the year 15 of the 22 starters were juniors but the seniors (those still starting, the injured seniors and players who had been replaced as starters) continued to provide leadership, the coach explained. “Resilient” is the word Murphy used to describe the 2015 team. In four years Murphy’s teams have won league every season, taken three NCS and two NorCal bowl championships and compiled a 51-7 record.

DE LA SALLE UPENDS CENTENNIAL De La Salle began the 2015 season as No. 1 in the country. An undefeated 14-0 record from the 2014 season and a senior-dominated roster made coach Justin Alumbaugh’s Spartans the team to

beat. DLS then lost its opening game 26-21 in Texas with a mistake-laden performance that left the players and coaches disappointed in their performance. That was the last time the Spartans came up short as they rolled off 14 consecutive wins behind a stifling defense. The defense faced what some considered an impossible challenge in the State Bowl Game as Centennial came into the clash as the top-ranked team in America and averaging 56.5 points a game. A year earlier in the championship game DLS outscored Centennial 63-42, the most points ever allowed by De La Salle. This time DLS had to come from behind twice as Centennial took 14-7 and 2114 leads before a pair of big offensive plays gave the Spar-

See CV Football, pg 9

Diablo FC teams win major SouCal Showcases JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Before moving to high school soccer Diablo FC’s four older Academy teams concluded their fall seasons in the San Diego area over the Thanksgiving Weekend and two teams came back with championships at prestigious college showcase events. Coach Zach Sullivan’s under 16 Diablo FC 99 girls won four consecutive games over Southern California opponents to win the championship of the Soccerloco San Diego Surf College Cup Showcase in San Diego, cementing their top 20 national ranking. On the boys side coach Charlie Campbell took his U17 Diablo FC 98 team to Carlsbad and came away with the title in the November Nights Elite College Showcase. They are currently ranked in the top 30 in America. The U17 98 boys went 30 versus two SoCal and one South Bay team without surrendering a goal at Carlsbad. The 99 girls faced four straight Southern California teams and recorded three shutouts after giving up a single goal in their Showcase opener. The defeated the host San Diego Surf Academy team in their final game 1-0.

Photo courtesy Diablo FC

COACH ZACH SULLIVAN’S DIABLO FC 99 GIRLS ARE RANKED 18TH IN THE UNITED STATES among all under 16 teams and the local squad traveled to San Diego over the Thanksgiving Weekend and came away with the championship at Soccerloco San Diego Surf College Cup Showcase. The team includes, bottom row from left, Alexandra Diaz, Sam Gotz, Kari Lewis, Gabby Hair, Kylie Schneider, Susanna Garcia, Sophia Runte; back row, Mackenzie Patterson, Payton Mannie, Steph Neys, Janet Lopez, Carly Agostino, Amanda Zodikoff, Mariana Giovannetti, Kaytlin Brinkman, Cassie Bizicki, Emily Kaleal and Lauren Montgomery. Not pictured, Sophia Jones and Santana Merryfield.

The team is now ranked No. 18 in the USA. The girls are playing for 10 area high schools during the winter. The U17 Diablo FC 98 girls, also coached by Sullivan, went 0-1-2 against three tough

foes in Carlsbad including a 10 loss to the Los Angeles Galaxy Elite team. The girls are ranked in the top 70 nationally. Marquis White’s U16 boys reached the quarterfinals of

the Nomads Nights Thanksgiving Tournament in San Diego. The boys went 2-1-1 against four SoCal teams scoring seven goals and giving up only three. They completed their fall NorCal U16 Nation-

al Premier League Premier season and State Cup group play schedule posting an undefeated record of eight wins and four draws. In the last NPL game of the season, the 99 Boys

earned a crucial three points by beating MVLA SC Jaguars 99 Blue 3-1. The team’s tournament season saw the 99 boys take championships at the Diablo FC and Ballistic Boys Cups and semi-finalists at the North Huntington Beach Boys Cup Labor Day Tournament, while just narrowly missing advancing from group play at the Davis College Showcase. In Sunday NPL Boys Showcase game the team defeated Elk Grove 99 Platinum in Modesto 5-0. This brought Diablo FC 99’s season record to 20-3-5. The club’s director of coaching Sullivan noted, “All teams showcased very well to college coaches and many college coaches reached out to recruit our players for their colleges. It was a very successful weekend of soccer for Diablo FC.” Beginning late next month after high school season wraps up with Section playoffs these teams return to Diablo FC Club play for Spring National Premier League and the Players College Showcase in Las Vegas, NV. For more information on how to join Diablo FC contact director of coaching Zach Sullivan by email at docdiablofc@gmail.com or visit www.DiabloFC.org.

Sports

January 15, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

soccer 24/7.” The biggest challenge she faces while playing soccer is competing. However, she doesn’t let the competition stop her from accomplishing her goals or becoming a better player. Hellstrom has also played club soccer for Diablo FC, Heritage and Mt. Diablo Elite. Off the soccer field she has been involved with the Public Service Academy at CVCHS for four years. After graduation in the spring, Hellstrom plans for college include majoring in kinesiology. “I like athletics. I think that my experience will help understand a lot about injuries and rehabilitation.” CVCHS student journalist Celine Herrera contributed to this Spotlight.

Athlete Spotlight

Andi Hellstrom Grade: Senior School: CVCHS Sport: Soccer

When Clayton Valley Charter senior Andi Hellstrom first stepped on a soccer field 11 years ago she certainly didn’t realize the experience would change her life. Describing soccer as one of the “greatest companions” in her life, Hellstrom goes into the field with passion, determination and success. In her second year of varsity soccer, Hellstrom is a leader by example. “The thing I admire most about Andi is

how she’ll work really hard towards a specific goal,” says Eagles head soccer coach Cristina Ballard. The outside midfielder says, “I enjoy the ability to connect with teammates and [soccer] allows me to release all of my stress that school and everything else may cause.” She adds, “Everybody I’ve ever played with understands what it’s like to be a student-athlete and how much fun it is to be busy with either school or

The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Andi 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.

Eagle teams in final DVAL winter season

Jason rogers photos

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER GIRLS BASKETBALL is trying to claim a fourth successive Dval championship this winter. Junior Jade Davis (24) is a newcomer in the pivot for the eagles. She scored a basket last week in a lopsided win over Mt. Diablo.

CV Football, from page 8

tans touchdowns and then turned the game over to the defense leading 28-21. Five times during the game De La Salle stopped the powerhouse Centennial offense on downs. Defensive coordinator Terry Eidson had apologized to Alumbaugh after last year’s

defensive effort in the state title game. After this championship game in December Eidson told the team they were one of the greatest defenses ever at the school. The state title win moved De La Salle back to No.1 in the final national MaxPreps Freeman rankings. Showing

AFTER THREE DOWN YEARS the Clayton valley Charter boys soccer team is ready to get back in the mix for a North Coast Section berth. Sophomore Jesus Martinez (20) has scored eight goals in 10 games as the eagles have jumped off to a great start this season. They posted a 2-0 win over Northgate in Dval action last week. elham rahiq (10) helped in the CvCHS midfield.

the level of competition, Centennial was second in the final rankings. Alumbaugh and Centennial coach Matt Logan were two of six finalists for the All-American Bowl National Coach of the Year Award. Alumbaugh took over for the legendary Bob Ladouceur as DLS coach for the 2013 season. His three seasons have yielded a 41-2 record with the only other loss 20-14

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to St. John Bosco, led by quarterback Josh Rosen (now a star at UCLA), in the 2013 state championship De La Salle has now defeated Centennial four of the five times they have met since 2006 in the state championship game. Overall, DLS has won seven of their 10 State Bowl outings. CVCHS student correspondent Tommy Vo contributed to the story.

Page 9

Potential first-round draft picks for Raiders

TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK

The Raiders finished the 2015 season 7-9. It was another year of missing the playoffs, but a young core of players drafted the past two years brings promise for the future. Derek Carr, Khalil Mack, Gabe Jackson, T.J. Carrie, Amari Cooper, Mario Edwards Jr. and Clive Walford are all impact players that have been drafted in 2014 or 2015. The Raiders hold the 14th overall pick in the 2016 draft and general manager Reggie McKenzie will be looking to hit the jackpot again, just like he’s done in his previous two drafts. The Raiders desperately need secondary help and depth on both the offensive and defensive lines. A couple of players that seem logical for the Raiders to go after with their first-round pick are defensive lineman Robert Nkemdiche and cornerback Mackensie Alexander. Nkemdiche has plenty of red flags coming out of Ole Miss. He was suspended from the Sugar Bowl after being charged with marijuana possession in Atlanta. In a bizarre series of events, Nkemdiche jumped out of a broken 15foot window and was later charged by police. While Nkemdiche may come across as a loose cannon, his talent is undeniable. He has incredible athleticism for a man his size at 6-foot-5 and 300 pounds. His burst off the line allows him to shut down run plays in an instant and his athleticism makes him a dangerous pass rusher as well. Nkemdiche doesn’t fit the

mold of high-character guys the Raiders have been drafting in recent years, but his talent might be too much for the Raiders to pass up. Pairing Nkemdiche with Mack, Edwards Jr. and Aldon Smith could culminate in the best defensive front seven in the NFL. If the Raiders shy away from Nkemdiche, there is a very high probability they will draft a cornerback. The emergence of David Amerson was a godsend for the Raiders, but overall the team’s secondary needs major improvement. Outside of Amerson and Carrie, the Raiders don’t have any other reliable players in the secondary following the retirement of Charles Woodson. Alexander out of Clemson would be a great pick for the Raiders. Jalen Ramsey and Vernon Hargreaves III are two other corners the Raiders would love to draft, but it doesn’t seem likely that either of them will still available when the Raiders pick. Alexander is arguably the best cover corner in the draft. He doesn’t stand out on the stat sheet but the guy can blanket wide receivers. He’d fit perfectly in the Raiders defensive system. Defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. likes to utilize a lot of man-to-man coverage, something Alexander excels at. The Raiders are a team on the rise, and in large part it’s due to their terrific drafting. The 2016 draft in Chicago on April 28-30 offers a chance for another stellar crop pf rookies. Both Nkemdiche and Alexander have the type of talent needed to get the Raiders back into the playoffs for the first time since 2002.

Tyler Lehman is a senior at San Francisco State University and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He is majoring in print/online journalism and wants to be a sports writer. Email your comments or questions to tyler@claytonpioneer.com.

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Please let us know about your sports news, special events, fund raisers, tryouts, signups and accomplishments. Youth leagues, clubs, schools and adult programs are all welcome to send us a rundown on what you’re doing. Include your contact information and send an email to sports@claytonpioneer.com.

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Sports Shorts CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE TRYOUTS JAN 16 & 23

Tryouts for Clayton Valley Little League are taking place on the next two Saturdays, Jan. 16 and 23. Registration is open for the spring 2016 baseball program for players ages four to 14 and softball for girls four to 14. The CVLL program includes a Challenger Division for players with physical and mental special needs. Players must reside within the CVLL boundaries. Go to cvll.org for complete information and to register.

DIABLO FC U8-U14

COMPETITIVE SOCCER TRYOUTS UNDERWAY

Diablo FC tryouts for the 2016 season for under 8 through under 14 boys and girls competitive teams are underway at Clayton Valley Charter High School and Diablo Valley College. There is no charge to try out and players can register today at diablofc.org. For more information on the club, tryouts and late player evaluations contact director of coaching Zach Sullivan at zachsullivan@gmail.com.

SPRING PROGRAMS AT ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES TAKING REGISTRATION

Spring programs in Clayton offered by All Out Sports Leagues includes Spring Break Basketball Camp Mar. 28-31 for boys and girls in first through 10th grades, Blaze travel spring baseball tryouts for 13-14U team and youth spring basketball league beginning in March through May 21. For complete information on All Out Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

CRABLESS CRAB FEED JAN. 23 FOR MT. DIABLO HIGH ATHLETICS

The Mt. Diablo High Athletics Hall of Fame annual Crab Feed theme is the “2016 Crab Feed without the Crab” at Zio Fraedo’s in Pleasant Hill on Saturday, Jan. 23. The only difference between this and previous crab feeds is that diners will make a choice between prime rib or calamari steak with lemon sauce and capers since there is a major issue during the crab season. There will be the usual music, dancing, 50/50 drawing and raffle prizes. This is the main fundraiser of the year for MDHS athletics. Tickets are $50 until Dec. 31 and $60 after that date. For questions call Lou Adamo at (925) 212-9332 or email louadamo@gmail.com.

MDSA SPRING SOCCER GEARING UP

Mt. Diablo Soccer Association will have its spring season from Mar. 19-May 21. U5-U14 boys and girls teams will be assembled next month and play on Saturdays. The U16/U19 co-ed division is on a Sunday afternoon schedule. Visit mdsoccer.org for more information. Guaranteed placement registration ends Feb. 1.

KRISTIAN IPSEN WINS 13TH AND 14TH NATIONAL DIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS

Kristian Ipsen, fresh off finishes his Stanford studies and looking ahead to this summer’s Rio Olympics, won his 13th and 14th national diving titles just before Christmas in Indianapolis. He took gold in the men’s threemeter individual and synchronized (with partner Sam Dorman) events at the USA Diving Winter National Championships. With the wins, he secured spots on the U.S. team for the FINA Diving World Cup in Rio during February. “I’m really happy with how this entire week has gone. This is a big year and this is the start of that year. I broke my hand at the beginning of October and I was really nervous because I wasn’t sure how this week was going to go or if I was even going to be able to dive. I’ve been around for a really long time though, and I feel like my experience has kind of taken over. I’m feeling really confident with these competitions,” said Ipsen, who won bronze in synchronized three-meter at the 2012 Olympic Games.

CONCORD CUP XXIII COMING MAY 14-15

The area’s largest annual youth soccer tournament, Concord Cup, returns for its 23rd season at a variety of local parks. Boys and girls club and recreation teams from under 10 through U19 are eligible to participate. Visit concordcup.com for complete information and to register a team or referee to participate.

CLAYTON VALLEY FALCON CHEER FUND-RAISING FOR LAS VEGAS COMPETITION

Clayton Valley Jr. Eagles cheer is raising funds so 40 girls ages 8-13 on three squads can travel to Las Vegas Jan. 22-24 to compete in the JAMZ Nationals. The girls qualified for Nationals at three competitions during the

Sports

regular season where they cheer for the Clayton Valley Jr. Eagles youth football teams. One Jr. Eagles squad will be defending their twotime national championships while another team is looking to go back-to-back. The girls are raising funds to cover insurance, competition registration fees and other expenses to compete. Anyone interested in donating should mail donations to CVAA Jr. Eagles Cheer, P.O. Box 769, Clayton 94517 or go online to GoFundMe at fundly.com/ national-cheer-team.

DIABLO FC U15-U19 PREMIER TEAMS HOLD FREE OPEN TRAINING FEB. 28 AT CVCHS

January 15, 2016

Crew demolishes field for fall volleyball title

The area’s competitive soccer club, Diablo FC, will hold opening training at Clayton Valley Charter High School on Sunday, Feb. 28, for its U15-U19 teams. All Photo courtesy all out Sports league players are invited to attend DC….DEMOLITION CREW CLAIMED THE CHAMPIONSHIP for the Clayton fall coed 5’s adult the free session. Diablo FC volleyball league at Clayton Community Gym. The Crew included, from left, John Premier teams compete in Jatoft, Kim buck, rodolfo Duran-Chavez, Manjit Cheema and brad blevins. Not picthe National Premier League tured are Sandra bohn and Mike Campbell. The defending summer league champion of US Club Soccer and parCrush were runners-up with Spike Happens third and Cheap Spikes fourth. The winter ticipates at several college season began last week and runs through the playoffs on feb. 18 hosted by all out showcase tournaments each Sports league. year. Tryouts for all U15-U19 teams will be held in May. For more information on the Valley Rd. in Walnut Creek. Vacation including airfare, USKS PRESENTS club, premier teams and tryFor more information and to hotel and park tickets. Visit 29TH ANNUAL outs contact director of JUST FOR KICKS JAN. 23 buy tickets at $50 each call diablofc.org for more details coaching Zach Sullivan at USKS Martial Arts will Maria Bekakis (925-285-6016) and to purchase crab feed zachsullivan@gmail.com. host its 29th annual show- or email coach Coakley at and super raffle tickets. case, Just For Kicks, on Sat- uglyeaglebaseball@gmail.com. CLAYTON VALLEY CONCORD ADULT urday, Jan. 23, with students CHARTER HOSTING S T . B ONAVENTURE SOFTBALL , PICKLEBALL from Pee Wee Champs (four 2 BIG WRESTLING EVENTS years and younger) up CYO TRACK IN-PERSON REGISTRATION OPEN Top-flight high school through the studio’s black SIGN UPS TUESDAY Adults looking for exerwrestling is coming to Con- belt instructors. USKS MarSt. Bonaventure CYO cise in a fun environment cord. The Clayton Valley tial Arts is looking ahead to spring track and field is hold- should consider signing up Classic invitational meet will 2017 when it celebrates 30 ing its final in-person regis- for one of Concord’s adult be hosted by CVCHS this years in Concord. Just For tration next Tuesday, Jan. 19. sports leagues – softball or Saturday, Jan. 16, with up to Kicks is at Berean Christian The session from 6:30-8 p.m. pickleball. 20 schools competing. A High School in Walnut Creek is at St. Bonaventure Catholic The city offers one of the month later on Wednesday, starting at 6 p.m. Tickets can Church, 5562 Clayton Rd., largest adult softball leagues Feb. 17, the school will host be purchased at the Dojo Room B. The track and field in the Bay Area for all skill the Diablo Valley Athletic (4483 Clayton Rd. by Ace program is open to boys and levels. Registration packets League championship meet Hardware) or from a USKS girls in second through eighth are available for the 12-game where berths in the North Student at a discount. Visit grades. Practices beginning summer season that runs Coast Section meet will be usksmartialarts.com in Feb. 1 are Monday, Tuesday from April through middetermined. and Thursday from 5-6:15 August. advance for details. p.m. at Newhall Park. SaturOne of the nation’s fastest YGNACIO VALLEY HIGH day meets begin Mar. 5 and growing sports is pickleball. CVCHS BASEBALL HOSTS HOSTING ALL-COMERS the season runs through May The game combines elements 4TH HOT STOVE DINNER TRACK & FIELD MEET 7 culminating with the Oakof tennis, badminton and FEB. 12 MAR. 5 land Diocese championships. ping pong. Played on a badNew Texas Rangers hitting Ygnacio Valley High is coach Justin Mashore, a Clay- For more information call minton-sized court with a hosting its annual all-comers ton Valley High School Hall of (925) 969-0207, email coach lower net, large wooden or track and field meet on Satur- Fame member, will be the Matt Tillman at matttill- composite paddles are used day, Mar. 5, from 9 a.m. – guest speaker at the fourth man@gmail.com or go to with a plastic whiffle ball. 12:30 p.m. on the all-weather annual CVCHS Hot Stove stbonaventurecyo.com. The sport is easy to learn and track at the Concord school. Dinner on Friday, Feb. 12. suited for all athletic abilities. DIABLO FC BENEFIT There will be eight individual Eagles baseball coach Casey There are drop-in hours at events (shot put, high jump, Coakley says the evening’s fesWillow Pass Tennis Courts CRAB FEED FEB. 5 long jump and 100-200-400- tivities will whet the appetite of six days a week. Introductory AT CENTRE CONCORD 800-1600 meter runs) and baseball fans, Clayton Valley The 13th annual Diablo and intermediate morning two relays for boys and girls alumni and current CVCHS FC benefit crab feed and raf- and evening pickleball classes from preschool through high families in the cold winter fle is set for Friday, Feb. 5, at begin in April. school and senior classifica- months before spring training Centre Concord. Tickets are For more information on tions. YVHS is using the starts again. Door prizes, raf- now on sale for the event that all Concord Rec adult sports meet as a team fund raiser for fles and the steak and chicken benefits programs for the programs, call (925) 671a finish line timing dinner benefit CVCHS Base- local competitive youth soc- 3423. For all Concord Parks system. Contact coach ball and its scholarship fund. cer club affiliated with the & Recreation classes now George Francis at coachfran- The event is from 6-9 p.m. at San Jose Earthquakes. This taking registration, visit cisyvhs@hotmail.com for Shadelands Civic Arts Center, year’s Super Raffle includes a concordreg.org. details. 111 N. Wiget Ln. at Ygnacio super Disneyland Family

Providing help for food addicts January 15, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

CINDy GErSHEN

FOOD MATTERS

It’s the time of the year again for New Year’s Resolutions, as many people commit to eating better, exercising at home or joining a gym. For some people, however, that doesn’t work anymore. They have crossed the line and its more than just eating too much and not getting enough exercise — they have become food addicts. If you have a problem with sugar, weight and health, I have come across two ways to help you identify and get the support you need: SUGAR-FREE CHALLENGE Sugar is a drug. It’s a highly addictive and dangerous sub-

stance. Don’t think so? Then try going seven days without it. According to Dr. Robert Lustig’s book, “Fat Chance: The Hidden Truth About Sugar, Obesity and Disease,” sugar is not only a dangerous drug, but also the primary cause of the diabetes and metabolic health crisis afflicting America. And he has a plan to deal with sugar. Dr Lustig says, “The food industry cannot be allowed to make money by making people sick. Because sugar causes diseases unrelated to their calories and unrelated to the attendant weight gain, it’s an independent primary-risk factor.” And sugar is everywhere. Approximately 80 percent of the 600,000 packaged foods you can buy in the U.S. have added sweeteners. The problem isn’t a knowledge deficit. There isn’t a fat person on Earth who doesn’t know vegetables are good for you. “Education has not solved any substance abuse. This is a substance of abuse. So you need two things: you need personal intervention and you need

societal intervention.” Taking on the Sugar-Free Challenge will be your own personal intervention, and provide much of the support sugar addicts need. For more from the Institution for Responsible Nutrition, visit www.responsiblefoods.org.

FOOD ADDICTS IN RECOVERY Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, or FA, is another great way to help get food addiction under control. I interviewed a member; his story is inspiring . If I didn’t see the pictures of him before I would not have thought he was ever overweight. Here’s what “Dustin” has to say: “I grew up in a supportive middle class family who ate extremely healthy. My mom was into nutrition, so I had all the tools to be a successful healthy man, but that was not my story. For years I would lie to my family, friends and employers about stealing and or eating food. I was a food addict, and I found myself in my late 20s almost 300 pounds with diabetes, high cholesterol and blood pres-

sure. I didn’t realize that my insane relationship around food was because I was a food addict. I am 33 years old now and through the program of FA, I have been granted the gift of choice. I never have to eat addictively again. After getting abstinent in FA for only two months all of my health issues were under control. I have lost 120 pounds and have kept it off for three years.” I asked Dustin why this time it’s different. “FA has been the answer for me. Having both support and structure in my life is the key, I am grateful for that today,” he said. If you think you have a problem with food, visit the website www.foodaddicts.org. There is help out there and it’s free.

Cindy Gershen is Chef/Founding Owner of Sunrise Bistro & Catering in Walnut Creek, Mount Diablo High School Sustainable Hospitality Pathway teacher, founding board member of the Wellness City Challenge and co-author of “The Fat Chance Cookbook.” Contact her gershenc@mdusd.org

Page 11

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 15, 2016

CTC’s ‘Arsenic,’ ‘Broadway’ nominated for Shellies Performing Arts

sa Vargas), the one “normal” member of the family, brings home her fiancé and his wellto-do parents, everything literally blows up. I’ve always loved this play. In my youth, I played Alice and many years later, I was cast as her fiancé’s mother. I don’t think there’s a part old enough for me now so I’ll just content myself with enjoying Kaufman and Hart’s wonderful dialogue from the audience. Helen Means directs this timeless comedy, which runs Jan. 29 – Feb. 14 at the Martinez Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward Street. Call 925-518-3277 for reservations. Center Rep also starts 2016 with a crazy comedy. “Born Yesterday” runs Jan. 29 – Feb. 27 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center and deals with such fun 1940s characters as a

RANDY NOTT AND KATHRYN MCCARTY in Onstage’s crazy comedy “you Can’t Take It With you,” at the Campbell Theatre in Martinez Jan. 29-Feb. 27.

Jan. 16 is the “night of nights” for local theater companies as the 37th annual Shellie Awards takes to the Lesher Center’s Hofmann stage. Local actors, directors, designers, producers and more will be decked out in their finest (or most creative) garb as the gala evening commences at 7:30 p.m. Sponsored by the Diablo Regional Arts Association, the event recognizes outstanding achievement in the performing arts. Patterned after the Tony Awards, the Shellies honors over 100 individuals for their work in musical and non-musical theatrical productions. In between awards, scenes from nominated plays and songs

from musicals will be presented. This year, 11 local companies are participating, including three East County arts organizations. Locally looking forward to the Shellie Awards are the folks at Clayton Theatre Company. The local group has high hopes for its productions of “A Trip Down Broadway” in the musical category and “Arsenic and Old Lace” in the play division. The Brentwood Theater Company is well represented with its production of “Hello Dolly!” nominated in the musical category and “12 Dates of Christmas” and “Christmas at the Biltmore” nominated in the play division. Meanwhile

Pittsburg Community Theatre will be holding its breath for its musical productions of “Into the Woods” and “Disney’s Mulan Jr.” Nominated in the play category are Pittsburg’s productions of “Greater Tuna” and “Barefoot in the Park.” The Shellie Awards provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the arts in our area, renew old friendships and play dress up. There may still be a few tickets (priced at $30) available. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org to find out. Following the Shellie Awards, Onstage Theatre in Martinez will open its first show of 2016. Full of the most

loveable, eccentric characters you’ll ever meet, “You Can’t Take It With You” takes place in an old New York City house where Grandpa (Randy Anger) keeps snakes and has never paid his income tax. Penny, his adult daughter (Kathryn McCarty), writes sex-filled melodramas, his son-in-law Paul (Bill Dietz) manufactures SHARON RIETKERK plays Billie fireworks in the basement, and Dawn in “Born yesterday” at on and on. When Alice (Melis- the Lesher, Jan. 29–Feb. 27.

SALLy HOGArTy

STAGE STRUCK

brassy chorus girl, her unscrupulous millionaire boyfriend and an ethicallychallenged senator. Hum, sound familiar? Call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org for tickets. Pittsburg Community Theatre will hold auditions for “6 RMS RIV VU” from 7 to 9 p.m. on Feb. 16 and 17 at Hillview Jr. High School, 333 Yosemite Ave., in Pittsburg. The show runs April 15 – 17 at the California Theatre in Pittsburg. Go to www.pittsburgcommunitytheatre.org to download the audition form. Brentwood Theater Company is also looking at February auditions for its May production of “Nunsense.” Go to www.thebrentwoodtheater.org for more information. Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is also the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@gmail.com

Diablo Ballet begins 2016 with George Balanchine’s ‘Apollo’

Diablo Ballet presents the second program of their 22nd season by celebrating the power of dance with “Precision and Balance,” Feb. 5 and 6 at the Del Valle Theatre in Walnut Creek. Diablo Ballet will open the performance with the full production of George Balanchine’s masterpiece, “Apollo,” staged by Christopher Stowell, former San Francisco Ballet principal dancer who performed in almost every Balanchine production presented there during his sixteen-year tenure. Balanchine was only 24 years old when he created “Apollo” and regard- PRECISION AND BALANCE – ed it as his artistic coming of George Balanchine’s age. The ballet premiered in “Apollo.” Dancers: 1928 at the Théâtre Sarah Rosselyn Ramirez, Raymond Tilton. Bernhardt in Paris. Photo: Bérenger Zyla The February program also features My Way, choreographed by Tina Kay Bohnst- men, showcasing their virtuos- information, call 925-943-SHOW edt and made famous by Frank ity and will be performed to (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org or www.diabloballet.org. Sinatra. First performed in live music. For performance times and ticket 2011, My Way is a duet for two

A heady portrayal of NFL’s concussion problem

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SCREEN SHOTS

Dr. Bennet Omalu theorized that over the course of a long career, an NFL center will undergo over 70,000 sub-concussive hits to the head. It is these blows, Omalu says, that will lead almost 30 percent of NFL players to encounter Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) or other earlyonset, dementia-like conditions. In another career-defining role, Will Smith plays Omalu in Peter Landesman’s new movie, “Concussion.” Smith inhabits

WILL SMITH portrays a doctor raising concerns about sports injuries in “Concussion” (Sony Pictures Entertainment).

the role with the passion and fire one would expect from a trailblazing doctor like Omalu. By 2015, most people have heard about the recent discoveries of the dangers in football. However, Landesman, who also wrote

the script, hooks us by telling the story from Omalu’s side of things. In only his second directing job, Landesman has delivered a movie that deserves our

See Concussion, pg 14

January 15, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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IN CLAYTON

Jan. 25 Ruth Bancroft Garden Talk and Plant Sale

Come learn about drought tolerant plants from a speaker from The Ruth Bancroft Garden. Plants available for purchase before talk. Sponsored by Clayton branch of American Association of University Women. 7 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Free. For more information, call 672-3411.

Feb. 14 Camellia Tea

Clayton Historical Society’s annual Camellia Tea and Open House. Camellia display and refreshments. Children welcome with adults. 1 – 4 p.m. Clayton Museum, 6101 Main Street. Free. 672-0240.

Mondays Off the Grid

IN CONCORD

Rotating lineup of eight food trucks; live music from local musicians. Food trucks 5 – 9 p.m.; music 6 – 8 p.m. Grant Street between Salvio Street and Willow Pass Road, Concord. offthegridsf.com.

Tuesdays Farmers’ Market

Tuesdays year round. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.

On Sale Now Concerts

The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord. theconcordpavilion.com. Concert schedule for 2016: Apr. 29, Luke Bryan, 7 p.m. May 19, Janet Jackson, 8 p.m. July 9, Bryan Adams, 8 p.m.

Jan. 28 Mayor’s Luncheon

Mayor Laura Hoffmeister presents her state of the city address. 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Hilton Concord, 1970 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $55. concordchamber.com.

ON AND AROUND THE MOUNTAIN

Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Event Calendar for more information.

Jan. 17 Amphibians of Contra Costa County Learn about local amphibians with an emphasis on salamanders and newts. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Summit Museum.

QUINTIN MADAHAR meets a California Newt at “Amphibians of Contra Costa County”

Jan. 20 After the Fire

Nature writer and photographer Joan Hamilton shares her photos and observations documenting changes in the mountain and what scientists are learning from the Morgan Fire. 7 – 9 pm. Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek.

Jan. 24 Summit and Oak Knoll Hike

Hike up to the peak and descend via Oak Knoll. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Meet at Juniper Camp Trailhead.

Save Mount Diablo programs listed are free unless otherwise noted. Go to savemountdiablo.org and click on Activities/Guided Hikes for more information. 947-3535.

Jan. 24 Mary Bowerman Trail

Celebrate Mary Bowerman’s 108th birthday by hiking the trail named for her. 9:30 – 11 a.m. Meet at Lower Summit Parking Lot. Registration required at eventbrite.com; search on bowerman.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Thursdays Ham Radio Technician Class

License training. Held by Salvation Army and Mt. Diablo Amateur Radio Club. 6:30 p.m. Salvation Army, 3950 Clayton Road, Concord. Registration required. hamradioclass@gmail.com.

Jan. 16 37th Annual Shellie Awards

Recognition of outstanding achievement in local performing arts. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 16 “BoomerAging: From LSD to OMGdays: A Musical Revue” A tribute to the history, joys and looming terrors of Baby Boomers. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$35. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Jan. 18 Sing in the New Year

Join the Diablo Women’s Chorale. Practices are Mondays from 7 – 9 p.m. St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Music Room, 399 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Contact Sarah at diablowomenschorale@gmail.com.

Jan. 22 Winter Concert

Presented by Winds Across the Bay Youth Wind Ensemble. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 22 – 24 “Thoroughly Modern Millie, Jr.”

Presented by Poison Apple Productions. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 23 925 Hip Hop and R&B Awards

Recognition for local artists. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $15. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 4271611.

Jan. 23 “Love for Piano Recital 2016”

Presented by Mina. 1:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 24 “American Roots”

Presented by California Symphony. 4 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $42-$72. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 29 “The Cabaret Series”

Performed by Ballet Flamenco. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $35. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 29 – Feb. 14 “You Can’t Take It with You”

A comedy that is fun for the whole family. Onstage Theatre at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $10-$17. onstagetheatre.homestead.com. 518-3277.

Jan. 29 – Feb. 27 “Born Yesterday”

Deliriously witty screwball comedy. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$53. centerrep.org. 9437469.

Jan. 31 Voice Recital

Presented by Music Repertoire. 3:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 31 Winter Concert

Presented by Young People’s Symphony Orchestra. 3 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17.75. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 5 “Hot August Night: A Neil Diamond Tribute”

Presented by West Coast Performing Arts Presenters. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 5 – 6 “Precision and Balance”

Performed by Diablo Ballet. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $24-$44. diabloballet.org.

Feb. 6 “Remember When?”

Feb. 12 – 14 “Ruddygore”

Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic masterpiece performed by Lamplighters. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $49-$54. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 12 – Mar. 6 “Pageant”

Who will win the title of Miss Glamouresse? Performed by OMG, I Love That Show! Productions. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $39. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 13 Comedy

Scott Capurro performs. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$35. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 4271611.

Feb. 13 “From Motown, with Love”

Classic Motown love songs. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.

CHURCHES AND RELIGION

Jan. 23 Piano Concert

Performed by Martin Morley. 7:30 p.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $15. cvpresby.org. 672-4848.

Jan. 23 The State of Interfaith Affairs in Contra Costa County

Featuring Rev. Will McGarvey, executive director of the Interfaith Council of Contra Costa County. 11 a.m. Lunch to follow. Sherrill Hall, Concord United Methodist Church, 1645 West St., Concord. Free. concordumc.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. 30 Stars to the Rescue XXV

Featuring Erich Church. Proceeds allow the Animal Rescue Foundation to save dogs and cats that have run out of time at public shelters. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $50-$250. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

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 673-0659. Jan. 21: Create Castles and Dragons, 4 p.m. Jan. 25: Changes to Social Security, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 27: yoga with Andrew Allen, 7 p.m. Feb. 1 – 29: Winter reading Program, kindergarten thru third grade Feb. 8: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Feb. 8: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 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 646-5455. Jan. 21: Author rita Joiner Soza, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 25: Movie night, 7 p.m. Feb. 1: Art of Chinese Painting, 7 p.m. Feb. 4: Origami in the Library, 4 p.m. Feb. 8: STEAM Projects, 7 p.m. Registration required. Feb. 9: Crafty Tuesday, 4 p.m. Registration required.

GOVERNMENT

Kool tunes by Kit and the Kats. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.

1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council

Presented by West Coast Performing Arts Presenters. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission

Feb. 6 “Sinatra Sings the Big Bands”

Feb. 12 “Love is All We Need”

Mazella and special guests perform some of the greatest love songs ever written. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$35. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

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

Schools

Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 15, 2016

Terror attacks make Muslims unwilling targets stood shocked by the work of eight cowards. One hundred and thirty people were killed in the tragic attacks in Paris and many were left injured. As numerous cities lit up iconic buildings in the colors of the French flag, the effects of the attacks went even further than damaging and taking lives. The religion of Islam was identified PABLO HErNANDEZ as the motivation behind the CVCHS attack by the attackers themCORRESPONDENT selves, tainting the religion and giving it once again the belief “An attack on humanity,” that Islam is directly tied with read The Inquirer’s headline on terrorism. As one terrorist was Nov. 14, 2015, as the world

assumed to be identified as a Syrian immigrant, debate rose on what America should do with Syrian refugees. “What happened in Paris can happen here,” says the Department of Homeland Security. Consequently, 31 states are vowing to reject any Syrian immigrants who try to enter as refugees. This is not the first time that the religion of Islam has been directly tied to terrorism. After Sept. 11, racist remarks flooded politics, the Internet and even everyday life. “It’s a cross between saddening, disrespectful, and just

2015 had much to cheer for at CVCHS There is much to celebrate and appreciate as we close the book on 2015. Academically, Clayton Valley Charter High School continues to be one of the highest performing high schools in the state. Our reputation has reached beyond the Bay Area resulting in national recognition of our students’ academic and athletic achievements. This year’s open enrollment period has been a tremendous success — over 500 students to date remain on the wait list hoping to be a part of our great school. It’s a true testament to our amazing students and the dedication of our fine teaching staff, guidance counselors and athletic coaches. In 2015, CVCHS achieved an impressive 15/15 Adequate Yearly Performance (AYP), a measurement for year-to-year student achievement on statewide assessments. With one of the most demanding graduation requirements in the state, CVCHS continues to excel at providing a world-class educa-

tion. Our 2015 graduating class achieved our highest college admissions rate of 96 percent since becoming a charter. But it’s more than just academics here at CVCHS. Our exceptional music and performing arts programs were recognized recently at state competitions and were showcased in our local community throughout the year. We’re also proud of our student athletes and coaching staff who continually exhibit sportsmanship on and off the field of play. Their hard work and tireless commitment have produced championship teams in Cross Country, Girls Volleyball and Basketball as well as back-to-back CIF Football Championships. Our final activity for 2015 was the CIF Championship Football game at CSU Sacramento’s Hornet Stadium. It was a “bittersweet” close to the end of the year. While it’s easy to smile at the “thrill of victory,” the greatest test of character is how our student athletes respond when the battle is tough

Scholarships announced for Travis CU members

Credit Union announced today that it will award twenty, $1,500 scholarships to 2016 college-bound seniors. Applicant must be a high school senior with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, bound for a two–or four–year college or university and a member of Travis Credit Union in good standing. Students who live in Travis Credit Union’s twelve-county service region and are not yet members may join the credit union and apply for a scholarship at the same time. Scholarship applications are available at any branch location or online at Travis Credit Union’s website at www.traviscu.org. In addition to a completed application other requirements include a 250-word essay, a certified high school transcript and a letter of recommendation from a teacher. Completed applications must be received no later than the close of business Monday, March 7, 2016.

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DAvID LINZEy VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE

and suffer through the “agony of defeat.” Ugly Eagle Football is — as the teammates refer to themselves — a close family. Our players played their hearts out, left it all out on the field and displayed a first-class attitude while facing a tough loss. I am extremely proud of their tremendous accomplishments this season. As the story goes, the Phoenix is a mythical bird with fiery plumage that lives up to 100 years. Near the end of its life, it settles into its nest of twigs, which then burns ferociously, reducing the bird and nest to ashes. And from those ashes — a fledgling Phoenix rises — renewed and reborn. Many of us have been fortunate to experience success and accomplishments this past year, and others have suffered loss or hardship. Life is full of “ups and downs.” I look forward to a new year and I am filled with enthusiasm and excitement as the Phoenix rises. Renewal brings hope as we “let go of the past” and “embrace the present” with a new voice and a new beginning. David Linzey is executive director of CVCHS. Contact him David.linzey@claytonvalley.org

flat out horrific because people don’t know the true meaning of our religion,” says Clayton Valley Charter High School ASB president Hosna Opeyany. “They only believe what they hear or see from other sources.” Opeyany, who like many other Muslims, is tired of being singled out in today’s society. “You cannot pinpoint a group of people for the actions of a small group of others. You can’t take what someone else did and basically frame or blame someone else for it.” The recent terrorist attacks have not only affected Islam, but mosques across the nation, such as the Islamic Center of Contra Costa located in Concord.

Pablo Hernandez is a senior at Clayton Valley Charter High School.

Carondelet High School will acquire ClubSport Valley Vista from Leisure Sports, Inc. in an effort to support the Catholic girl’s school’s students, twothirds of whom participate on one or more of the Concord school’s athletic teams. “We are incredibly excited to have taken this step in pursuing the highest priority of our campus master plan,” said Carondelet President Bonnie Cotter. “This property will enable us to provide our young women and our school with high-quality outdoor athletic fields and enable us to expand our programming, community outreach and summer offerings.” Recognizing that the 43year-old club is used by many active members and neighbors, Carondelet officials say they are looking forward “to developing relationships with the community to explore ways the facility can continue to serve as a resource during the transition of ownership, site improvement and renovation, and long-term in ways compatible with school use.” The purchase agreement was announced Dec. 21 but the

transaction is not yet completed. last September that ClubSport Until it is the school is not Valley Vista was closing at the announcing any financial terms. end of January to eventually be replaced by a residential home WORKING WITH development there was a large WALNUT CREEK public outcry. Tennis players of To maximize the property all ages and Valley Vista Barrafor its athletic teams, Carondelet cudas recreation swim team, plans to seek approval from the among others who have used city of Walnut Creek to create a the facility over the past four state-of-the-art sports complex decades, expressed opposition by replacing some older tennis to the plan. courts with soccer/lacrosse and “We are delighted to have softball fields. Carondelet offi- Carondelet take ownership of cials have met with city staff to the property,” said Leisure review the process and time- Sports CFO Patrick O’Brien. “It frame for the approvals needed was important to Leisure Sports to make changes to the facility. to have the right buyer. This Carondelet’s “land-locked” acquisition will enhance the campus is situated on one of the overall educational and developsmallest parcels of any top-qual- ment experience for the students ity Bay Area high school. It has while at the same time providing no outdoor athletic fields or recreational partnering opportufacilities on campus. The school nities with the community.” is about two-and-a-half miles Carondelet and Leisure from Valley Vista. Sports are currently in the Already home to the Caron- process of due diligence and delet and De La Salle tennis expect the deal to close soon. teams, ClubSport Valley Vista is Carondelet will fund the pursituated on 6.5 acres at the base chase through its 50th Anniverof Mt. Diablo in Walnut Creek. sary campaign. It has 19 tennis courts, sevenCarondelet has been seeklane swimming pool and 5,000- ing additional land for its athsquare-foot clubhouse, which letic teams for over a year as includes an exercise facility. this was identified as a critical need and a top priority in the PUBLIC OUTCRY AT CLOSING school’s strategic plan. When it was first reported

time with his autopsies. He talks to the dead, asking them to help solve why they died. His attention to detail is immaculate. When examining the body of Mike Webster, beloved former Pittsburgh Steeler, Omalu realizes there is no reason someone so young should die in such a fashion. Smith brings an understated naiveté to Omalu. As a highly educated Nigerian immigrant, Omalu is ignorant of American football. Watching practices and video highlights, he quickly learns that repeated blows to the head are the norm and something must be done. It is fascinating to watch him do his job.

However, the glimpses into his private life, while at times poignant, nevertheless seem to unnecessarily pause the real story. Gugu Mbatha-Raw plays Prema, an immigrant whom Omalu allows to stay at his home. Their friendship eventually turns into a relationship. Omalu’s marriage, budding fatherhood, and desire to live the American dream add depth to the character. His life story could have been a movie on its own. Yet, as someone who went to “Concussion” to see the dramatization of science vs. the NFL, the scenes of Omalu’s personal life couldn’t end quickly enough. More meaty aspects to the movie are given short shrift. As NFL Commissioner Roger

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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 questions or comments to Editor@ConcordPioneer.com.

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Goodell, Luke Wilson is given very little to do. In brief roles, the actors playing the former NFL players are gripping in displaying the turmoil experienced by these men suffering from CTE. Anyone who follows the NFL and is curious how the concussion saga unfolded will get a fascinating story with a great job done by Smith. Those who want to remain in the dark on the subject and continue to pay no mind at the devastating effects of football hits had best stay away. B

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In today’s society, we have to be able to separate the truth from lies spread around us. Stereotypes are extremely common and should never be looked at during the search for truth. Instead, we must gain knowledge before we speak. If society is to bring change, it will be brought along little by little o make sure peaceful Muslims and people of other religions feel safe and not discriminated against. Always remember to treat one another with respect and to be open to any sort of truth that may come your way.

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Concussion, from page 12

attention. Over the last couple of decades, the sport of football has undergone a big transformation. The overwhelming majority of changes have to do with when, where and how you can tackle a player. At first, the NFL wanted nothing more than to brush Omalu’s CTE findings under the rug. Star players sidelined meant less people watching, and that’s bad for business. Eventually, the NFL finally realized they had to make some modifications to their rules. The catalyst for the changes can be traced back to Omalu’s findings. As a coroner, he spends far more than the typical amount of

“There will always be ignorant people in this world that believe whatever they hear and say so I don’t think it will ever change,” says a member of the Islamic Center of Contra Costa who wishes to remain anonymous. “One thing we can do is have more diversity in this country, which can start by taking in more Syrian refugees.” Islam is a religion based on the principles that spread peace, love and positivity, the contrary of the popular belief that the religion is strictly about inflicting terror in any way possible. “I feel bad because in this generation and society one person’s wrong action can be blamed on a whole religion and race, which is a shame.”

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Feral pigs are a mountain mess

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After the recent rains, the tracks of feral pigs seem to be everywhere in Mount Diablo State Park. If you’ve spent much time hiking the trails in the last weeks, you may have come upon areas that looked freshly furrowed, as if someone had broken the soil for a new garden. But most likely, you were seeing the work of hungry pigs in the act of rooting for food, any food. They’re not supposed to be here, and while there are other plants and animals living in the park that are also non-natives, feral pigs may be the most destructive of all. Feral pigs in California are a hybrid between European wild boars released by game hunters in the 1920s and domestic pigs that made their way into the wild since the mid-1800s. Since then, they’ve bulldozed their way into 49 of California’s 58 counties. They’re a problem as well across the U.S., with voracious, well-established populations in 36 states. Their style is all-you-caneat, which is the reason they do so much damage. They aren’t picky. They’ll eat invertebrates, acorns, grasses, flowers, bulbs, berries, reptiles, birds, eggs and animal car-

WILY AND DESTRUCTIVE, FERAL PIGS QUICKLY GET WISE TO TRAPPING METHODS. They damage the ecosystem by digging up fragile meadows and competing with native species for the same food sources. report sightings or damage to park officials.

casses. In fact, says Michael Marchiano, a Bay Area naturalist who has spent most of his life studying the flora and fauna around Mt. Diablo, “They would eat you too if you fell down unconscious.” Pigs compete directly with many of our native species, which are dependent on the same food sources pigs seek, and biologists think they may be one of the main reasons that our state bird, the California quail, is struggling to maintain a grip. Quail are ground dwellers; they nest on the ground and spend most of their lives there — and pigs like quail eggs. Worse news: feral pigs seem to be on the increase everywhere. Mount Diablo State Park has a fluctuating population that isn’t easy to estimate, but what statistics we have look ominous. In recent years, trappers caught about 120 pigs per year, an average of 10 per month. Last year the average was 40 pigs per

month. The trend might not continue, but what’s to stop it? Feral pigs are smart, cunning, fast and wary. They’ve learned to avoid people, so are active mostly in the hours we’re not. They get wise quickly to traps and decline to enter them, even if they’re baited with delicious pig snacks such as corn soaked in sour milk. You can help by learning to recognize fresh pig damage and reporting it promptly to park rangers, who rely in part on anecdotal information to place traps more effectively. The emphasis is on “fresh.” If the evidence is more is than about three days old, it’s too late: feral pigs are always on the move and spend only a couple of days in any one location. When you see a disturbed area, look closely at the tracks. Look for sharp edges and fresh roots in the upturned soil. If you see wilted roots, don’t bother: the evidence is past its expiration date. If you see new plant growth in the rototilled soil,

keep walking. But keep your eyes open. The easiest time to spot pig sign is just after a rain. Softer soil allows them to root more easily for grubs, bulbs and anything else nutritious they can find on top of or just under the soil. If you feel sure you’ve spotted fresh evidence of wild pigs in the park, such as tracks, scat or damage, take photos with something for scale — a coin, a key, a pen — note exactly where you are as well as the date and time, and get the info to the rangers. You can call either the Junction Ranger Station at 925-837-6129 or the Summit Visitor Center at 925837-6119 to make your report, or you can post a private message to the rangers on the Mount Diablo State Park Facebook website. Include photos if at all possible.

Staci Hobbet is a docent with the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association. Email her at anastasiahobbet@gmail.com

No winter break for gardeners January is a busy month in the landscape. There is a lot to do; pruning, fertilizing, dividing, spraying, and installing. If you start now, perhaps you can have your garden to-do list finished by Valentine’s Day. Light pruning and shapely pruning should be done on deciduous trees and shrubs during the winter months, not hard pruning. Deciduous shrubs and trees have memory of the size that they were in the fall. If you butcher them while they’re dormant, the new growth surges with nowhere to go. This is where you get the spindly and thin “spider legs” stems. Approach crape myrtles, smoke bushes, Japanese maples and fruit trees this time of year with an easy hand. Deadhead crape myrtle’s dried seed heads and remove crossing branches. If the plant’s height needs to be controlled, prune to a “v” in the branch, rather than cutting through a limb wherever you choose. Treat smoke bushes and Japanese maples the same way. Deciduous fruit trees are the apricot,

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

pear, nectarine, cherry, plum, peach and persimmon. They too should be lightly pruned and have their crossing limbs removed. Save the hard cutting on deciduous fruit trees until after harvest.

FERTILIZING Fertilizing in the winter is important for many common landscape plants. Camellias, azaleas, rhododendron and citrus all should be given does of 0-10-10 fertilizer. Considering that we have been enjoying regular rain, we have the luxury of using a granular product. Use a hand cultivator to pull back any mulch beneath the plant, apply the desired amount of

curl and blight. Broad spectrum herbicides can also be applied during the dormant season. Those that grow apples and suffer from coddling moth worms have to wait until your trees flower to spray. There are more plants that can be installed this time of year then can’t. Avoid installing tropical selections, vines and most citrus until the fear of frost has past; other than that, you can plant away. Take advantage of the free water falling from the sky, and get planting. If you were considering changing out your lawn to water-wise FIGHT FUNGUS AND SCALE plant material, winter is a Spray fruit trees to help great time to get the project prevent fungus and fight going. scale. During the dormant season is when we spray Nicole is the Garden Girl at mostly stone fruit. Copper R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. fungicides are very effective You can contact her with questions or products to control many of comments by email at the most popular fruit tree Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com problems such as peach leaf 0-10-10, lightly work into soil, and recover with mulch. If you are noticing any yellowing of foliage, now would be an excellent time to apply an iron supplement. You can safely apply both products at the same time. Some folks may still need to divide some of their landscape’s clumping plant material. If your agapanthus, daylilies, society garlic, kniphofia or iris are growing too wide, dig up the clump, break into sections and replant. You can transplant portions to other spots, or give to friends.

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Avoiding the New Year’s ‘naughty’ list

Towards the end of every year, trend watchers in the world of interior design begin to share their outlook on the new year ahead — what’s new and totally hot in the way of furnishings and design styles and what items and styles have been banished, thrown into the interior design abyss of bad and outdated taste. It’s the one time of year that instead of reading the typical glowing reviews about design techniques or mouthwatering descriptions of new furnishings, the online blogs, design magazines and the home section of many newspapers revert to a little trash talking. I

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guess everyone is entitled to their option. So, how do you ensure that your design project doesn’t land on the “not hot” list? We’ve all had the urge at one time or another to forget our typical design intuition and just give in to something wild and crazy. Maybe the urge is to go with a paint color that typically you would run from. Or maybe you were out and about shopping, and for some reason that lime green shag area rug spoke sweet nothings to you… and then ended up in your living room…under your floral print chairs. The best way to steer clear of the “not hot” list is to do your research. For example, maybe you have an idea for your living room fireplace wall: cabinetry, lighting, masonry or trim work. You have an inspiration photo that you pulled from a magazine 10 years ago when you first bought your house, and

now have the time and budget to move forward. Do you just hand your contractor the rumpled magazine page and politely say, “just do it”? No. It’s time for homework. It’s time to identify the classic and timeless trends on your own. Pull up whatever online design source speaks to you and click through the pages looking for examples of your living space. Look to see where designers and architects have taken some design liberty in pushing the envelope, and where others have created the same lovely living spaces, but have used materials that will last the test of time and wear and tear. And how do you identify classic and timeless designs? For me, this means neutral and historical colors for walls and floors. Or I like functional kitchen and bathroom layouts, using building materials that have clean lines and a subtle sparkle. Fabrics for window treatments and furniture that almost have a “blue jean” effect can go with just about anything — for when you do want to have a little fun with trendy accessories, including a lime green shag rug. There’s nothing wrong with trying something new when it comes to design. Design, after all, is about creativity, inspiration and a personal touch, but there is something to be said about spending your budget, and your time, on something that you know deep down is a

DON’T BE AFRAID OF COLOR—A pop of chartreuse adds drama to the neutral gray walls in this classic, but trendy, living room

temporary piece, and not a forever piece. Paint and decorative furnishings are easy enough to change from time to time, but significant projects require much thought and planning.

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.

Liven up winter neutrals with color We all have turning points in our lives; a moment in time where everything changes and you start to see the world differently. These times can be emotional, spiritual, or in my case, fashionable. My life changed one day when I was shopping with a friend about 10 years ago. I had a big infatuation with chocolate brown at the time. Every season I would add more chocolate brown sweaters and jackets to my wardrobe which I would pair with chocolate brown pants; a sort of “column of color” idea I found to be very slimming. I didn’t think too much about how to accessorize this look until my friend suggested turquoise. There in an instant I saw whole new possibilities for my beloved brown. Brown with all shades of turquoise, including bright blue, earthy green and soothing celadon. And if turquoise worked, why not try coral and pink? Soon after, no outfit was complete without a pop of color to brighten a neutral palette. If you are like me, you are craving ways to make your winter greys, navy blues and browns more interesting. Let’s have a little fun with our wardrobes and combine some unexpected shades. A few preliminaries: This exercise is going to be easier and a lot more fun if your

SuSAN SAPPINGTON

CLOTHES UP

BRIGHTEN UP WINTER with the preppy color combo of navy blue and Kelly green.

closet is organized properly by color. So take five minutes and rearrange. Hang all your clothes sorted by color — all blues together by shade, all reds together, all greens together. You get the picture. Another useful tool I’ve created for myself is a visual board I’ve named “What to wear with every color.” I pin any interesting color combinations and review it periodically for inspiration. Grey slacks again? A grey suit is just begging to be brightened up. So the next time you grab your grey

pants, do something different. Try yellow or pink as a topper. Another option is to try a shade of marigold or a crisp white button down blouse. For a sporty look, leave the blouse un-tucked and pop the collar. Grey also looks great with all shades of pink. No uniform in this Navy. This season, I am in love with a navy and green combination. Try pairing your navy slacks or skirts with a cottoncashmere pullover in every type of green shade. Also a light teal silk-blend sweater

would be beautiful as well. Hot Chocolate. There really isn’t anything richer looking than a sumptuous brown. I still love that brown column look. Try adding a jacket in a Caribbean Blue to add a pop of color. Try fuchsia with brown. You will be so surprised how beautiful that combination is. Keep the brown sweater and change to a beautiful pair of jeans and boots. Add a color scarf to pull the entire outfit together. A little pop of color can go a long way in the chilly winter season. Have fun making some unexpected color combinations of your own. Need help organizing your closet? Let me help you. Susan Sappington is the Area Development Manager and Wardrobe Consultant for ETCETERA Clothing of New York. Send comments to susan@etcstyles.com.

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Page 17

A chilling tale for mystery buffs SuNNy SOLOMON

FOR

THE

BOOKS

I’ve been reviewing McKenna Tahoe mysteries by Todd Borg for several years now and almost all have been reviewed in time for beach reading. However, “Tahoe Blue Fire” (Thriller Press; First edition, August, 2015), with its snowy Sierra backdrop, is being reviewed in time for slope reading. If not reading while waiting in line for a lift at Heavenly, Kirkwood or Mt. Rose, or better yet, while sipping a hot buttered rum at a lodge, let Borg take you on another fast-paced Sierra thriller. Be warned, you will never see snow removal equipment in quite the same

way again, especially those behemoth machines that grind through banks of the frozen stuff and then blow it off to the side to be hauled away like the waste it sometimes contains. McKenna, the retired San Francisco cop who now lives at Lake Tahoe with his loyal and loveable Harlequin Great Dane, Spot, is handed one of his most convoluted cases with enough twists and turns to satisfy the most finicky reader. As often happens with Borg’s stories, the reader is teased with a prologue entailing the setup for a murder, but it isn’t the first murder to come McKenna’s way. The event in the prologue remains snow-buried for some time. The first murder for McKenna occurs before he gets off the phone with his new client, a woman who is fearful of leaving her mountain home and giving him specific driving directions to her house in Squaw Valley. While still on the phone, mid-sentence, he hears the fatal gunshot. Her fears were not groundless.

“Tahoe Blue Fire” is classic Borg: a mysterious note scribbled by the first murder victim, an arson attempt on the home of a famous football player who suffers from early onset of dementia as a result of game-related head trauma, a painting suggesting a Medici connection, at least two other possible murder victims, a world famous diamond, Frank Sinatra and, of course, our hero’s steadfast girlfriend. The search for the diamond takes McKenna and his girlfriend, entomologist Street Casey, all the way to Italy, a location no safer for him than Tahoe.

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“Whenever the paper comes out, I get six or seven calls and get jobs every time.”

Whoever might know of the whereabouts of the jewel is now fair game for the really bad guys, and they suspect McKenna knows more than most. Borg is a stellar, no-holdsbarred describer of a fight scene, whether it’s McKenna’s brawl or Spot’s (whose size of body and jaw make him a formable opponent). What makes Borg’s mysteries stand out is not only his talent for creating Byzantine plots, but the always present personal connection he allows McKenna to find with the backstory — in this case, the relationship McKenna develops with the ailing football player Adam Simms and his growing interest in what is being done for and by dementia patients. “Tahoe Blue Fire,” because Simms has taken to writing poetry, introduces the reader and McKenna to the vibrant literary life of the Sierra. By the time you finish “Tahoe Blue Fire,” you will feel a part of McKenna’s Sierra community. Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’

pointing up. To separate the stem from the florets, use the tip of a kitchen knife to go around where the main stem connects to the offshoot floret stems. Carefully use the point of the knife to follow along where those two join until all the offshoots are separated from the main stem. Save stem for soup stalk or compost. Take separated florets and BLOOD ORANGE shave thinly with a knife or OLIVE SALAD mandolin. Dice almonds with a (Recipe from Chef Mario knife, grinder or mortar and Hernandez, PCFMA) pestle. Pit and dice 1 large head of cauliflower olives. Remove the skin of the 1 cup of almonds oranges with knife or by hand, ½ cup of cured castelvetra- and cut the citrus into thin horno olives izontal strips. Dice 2 blood oranges or any cit- parsley. Combine all ingredirus ents, add olive oil, salt and pep1 bunch of parsley per, and garnish with shaved 1-2 Tbsp. olive oil almonds. Salt and pepper to taste Flip cauliflower head The Concord Farmers Market is in upside down so the top is rest- Todos Santos Plaza Tuesdays & ing on the table and the stem is Thursdays.

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sweetness. Don’t forget to include some orange peel. Cocktails: This time of year, blood oranges can add a bright color to your average alcoholic beverage on a dreary day. Of note, the cara cara orange, which also has a pinkish red flesh, is not categorized as a blood orange. It is a variety and mutation of the navel orange.

Mayor, from page 1

Fire Station 11 in Clayton reopened. We hired Mindy Gentry, a Clayton resident, as our Community Development Director. We hired Chris Wenzel as our new Police Chief. Gary Napper, Clayton City Manager, successfully re-negotiated the Clayton Community Gym Agreement with MDUSD. We then renewed our contract with All Out Sports League to continue our after-school sports programs. Boom Town. With an improved economy, Clayton has three approved projects on its books and five other projects in process. From single-family homes on peracre-plus lots to townhomes, we should expect diversification as our limited buildable space starts filling in. Our

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Blood orange puts a bit of snap on dreary winter table

It’s the time of year for citrus, glorious sweet citrus. The arrival of gorgeous blood oranges offer a delicious change of pace from regular navel or Valencia oranges in cooking. They have a beautiful reddish/orange tinged peel and red flesh that varies from deep pink to burgundy red and are quite lovely on a serving platter. The two most popular varieties are the dark-fleshed Moro and the delicately flavored Tarocco. The former is available from December to March, and the latter from January to May. Here are some tasty ways to use blood oranges: Salads: Toss blood orange sections and cooked red beets with winter greens, red onion, and a Dijon vinaigrette. Sangria: Mix your favorite fruity red wine with blood orange juice, apple juice, a bit of real sugar, and slices of lemons, limes, blood oranges and strawberries. Chill. Marmalade: Get out the canning jars and make some blood orange marmalade. Muffins/Quick Bread: Take your favorite spiced orange muffin or quick bread recipe and replace regular orange juice with blood orange juice. It adds a nice

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(DFSC) received grant funds for folks living in Clayton Valley for defensible space projects on their property. A neighborhood gets together and does the “sweat equity” work by cutting down any trees, shrubs, vegetation, etc. to create defensible space around their property. DFSC will then provide funds for a contractor to come in and mulch all of the cuttings. DFSC is holding meetings in Clayton every other month to create the plan. Their next meeting will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 20 at the Clayton Library. Today is the oldest you have ever been; yet the youngest you’ll ever be. Enjoy each day while it lasts. Always remember that health is real wealth. May 2016 bring you and your family good health and may you prosper.

staff is working on additions to the city website which will allow you to access the progress status of these and future developments. The city-owned lot on Main Street had interest from four potential developers and I look forward to reporting progress in future columns. In its quest to build a church on its lot adjacent to Mt. Diablo Elementary School, Sean Robinson, Pastor of the Clayton Community Church, has opened up dialogue with our new community development director to obtain information on the city’s Municipal Code regarding development standards and the entitlement process. E-Mail questions or comMorgan Fire. Since the ments to: Morgan Fire in 2013, the Hgeller@ci.clayton.ca.us. Diablo Fire Safe Council

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 15, 2016

2015 Year in Review, from page 1

development worried neighbors, while everyone put a squeeze on water use during a historic drought. Here is a rundown of some of the most significant and interesting stories to hit Clayton residents in 2015.

CVCHS GOES TO WAR, MAKES CHANGES Just as Clayton Valley Charter High School took off for spring break, Contra Costa District Attorney Mark Peterson’s office stated that after their investigation into a number of charges brought by individuals and

DAVE LINZEY

the Stakeholders for Transparency group against executive director Dave Linzey and the school’s governing board, the DA office “found insufficient evidence of criminal wrongdoing to warrant criminal prosecution or additional investigation. The SFT and others had claimed that Linzey, the school board and administration had violated the Brown Act and conflict of interest laws, mismanaged funds, failed to follow policies and mishandled a sexual harassment complaint made against a campus supervisor. The DA’s office referred the matter to the Contra Costa County Office of Education’s ongoing investigation of similar complaints about the charter school as the appropriate agency to look into such matters. Meanwhile, changes were made at the top of the school hierarchy as Jeff Eben took over as the first fully-dedicated principal of CVCHS. Board members decided that Linzey’s dual role as executive director and principal would be split. Then just before school started, the long-awaited report by the CCCOE was released publicly, and rather than bringing long-standing issues to a conclusion, the report seemed to have created more controversy. While critics of the school say the report validated their complaints, CVCHS administrators say the report did not fully investigate the allegations, and did not seek information from the school to rebut any accusations of wrongdoing. Meanwhile, it was business as usual in the classrooms, as students continued to improve the school’s academic standing, the performing arts won awards, and the Ugly Eagles football team went on to play in the CIF Championship. WELCOME BACK, STATION 11 The Clayton community threw a huge welcome home bash for Fire Station 11 at a celebration Jan. 31,

complete with honored dignitaries, scout troops, a community safety fair and, of course, a barbecue. Station 11 was closed in early 2013, following the defeat of a bond measure the prior November that would have helped fund the financially strapped fire protection district. Following the graduation of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s Academy 47 on Thursday, Jan. 15, the local firehouse — which had been down to minimal use for the past two years — was again fully staffed with three full-time firefight-

assignments include the stint in Danville, Commander at the Marsh Creek Detention Facility, Watch Commander in the Office of Emergency Services and Commander of Administrative Services, a post he held until his retirement in 2011.

TURNING OFF THE WATER In the fourth year of drought, 2015 was the year that Clayton made sure that “brown was the new green.” Mandated by state law, residents cut their water usage by at least 25 percent last summer. The City of Clayton did as well, as they cut back water usage a whopping 40 percent from 2013 levels, said City Manager Gary Napper. Some areas, such as The Grove Park and some downtown areas, are served by well water, were watered three times a week. The main area that was affected was the Community Park and fields, which was only watered twice a week. The Oakhurst Country Club also cut back, as golf course’s fairways and the roughs were watered just twice a week, with the greens and tees three times, but only in the evening hours. JEFF EBEN Oakhurst buys well water from the City of Clayton, which allows for the ers, 24/7, said Battalion Chief Lon additional watering. Goetsch. SAYING GOODBYE TO TWO Fire Station 11 is staffed with CLAYTON STANDOUTS three full-time firefighters — a capPopular community volunteer and tain, a fire engineer and a firefighter. It is a full-time ALS (advanced life long-time Clayton resident Joan Culsupport) station with one member ver died suddenly in her home on being a paramedic. It is also equipped June 1. Culver, an with a wild land response unit for active member fires up on Mount Diablo. of the Clayton Business and NEW CHIEF IN TOWN Community After the departure of Clayton Association, Police Chief Chris Thorsen, the city was well-known tapped a familiar name to lead the for her volunlocal force. teer work with Chris Wenzel, a retired Sheriff ’s VESTIA, filling Department Commander, is no scores of backstranger to small town law enforcepacks for kids JOAN CULVER ment. He has served as Chief of at back-toPolice in Danville, and sees many simschool time, and for her support of ilarities between the two cities. the CBCA Adopt-a-family at Christmas. A retired marketing professional, Culver was instrumental in many efforts to promote downtown businesses and increase Clayton’s visibility in the region. Then, on the night of Sept. 19, Clayton lost longtime resident Donald Edward Fitzgerald died, ending an enduring life as a husband, father, friend and community DON FITZGERALD leader. In1978, he and wife Gail had four children and moved to Clayton. They joined the Clayton Business and Professional Association, the predecessor to the present day CBCA and began a POLICE CHIEF CHRIS WENZEL long career of community service. In Both cities are extremely safe with 1995, after the pair attended several property crime and traffic topping the festivals around the area, Don decided Clayton needed its own Art and list of major issues, he said. Wenzel holds a B.A. in Criminal Wine Festival. He and Gail and a Justice from Sacramento State Uni- group of locals met with an event versity. His career with the Sheriff ’s consultant who told them they would Department began in 1987. His need several thousand dollars to start and could expect to lose money for at least three years. Ignoring his advice, Don and his committee went ahead with practically no money and a few volunteers. With just 25 vendors, that first Art and Wine netted $20,000. As he fought his own battles with cancer four different times, he served as support and inspiration to others as president of the board of the Contra Costa Crisis Center and a volunteer with the Wellness Center, now Cancer Center, in Pleasant Hill.

THE YEAR GOT OFF TO A CELEBRATORY START with the reopening of Clayton’s CCCfPD Station 11, which was closed in 2013.

RETURN TO IWO JIMA WWII veteran, Dewey Dobson returned to Iwo Jima to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the great battle that was seen as a turning point in World War II, a battle that raged from Feb. 19 to March 26, 1945. When he and his wife Sheila Driscoll arrived at San Francisco International Airport to embark on their trip, they were greeted by a mass of supporters, including reporters, Marine guards, members of the San Francisco USO and the Patriot Guard. They escorted him through the airport as onlookers cheered. To their surprise, their return home was honored as well. Dobson was introduced by his United Airlines

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL two women to Homecoming royalty.

Pilot as “a very special passenger” and was allowed to exit the plane first. There, they were again greeted by police and military dignitaries and escorted through the airport, again to cheers from other passengers amid shouts of “Thank you for your service.” “They wouldn’t even let us take a shuttle home,” Dobson says. They were given a ride in police van, with a complete police escort, all the way to Clayton. “An officer said, ‘We don’t let our guys go home in shuttles.’”

BREAKS WITH TRADITION

and names

Neighbors of the quarry were not happy about the potential extension. Nor are they happy with the current quarry operations, which often begin at 6 a.m. on weekdays. .

NOT YOUR AVERAGE HOMECOMING It was not Homecoming as usual this year at Clayton Valley Charter High School. For the first time in the school’s history, two female students, Anna Lau and Veronica Renner, were honored as the school’s Homecoming King and Queen. Before the two students were RELAY FOR LIFE THRIVES nominated, it has always been tradiThe 2015 Clayton Relay for Life tion for students to elect one male proved that less is often more. and one female student to represent The event, a 24-hour walk-a-thon the student body. to help fund cancer research, was held “I was really, really shocked,” said Aug. 15-16. Anna, who identifies herself with the LGBTQ+ community. “I started crying and I couldn’t stop crying for the next 20 minutes afterwards. It was a pretty big thing.” “There are a lot of things targeted against [the LGBTQ+ community],” Anna said. “This election brings visibility. The more you see, the more you accept.” Other students also felt more comfortable expressing their sexual orientation to fellow peers. 2015 RELAY

Clayton is one of the smallest towns in the Bay Area to participate in Relay for Life yet their fundraising dollars are double and even triple that of more affluent and even much larger cities in California.

CONDO PUSH-BACK Plans to build 44 high-end, twostory condominiums on three acres on High Street and Marsh Creek Road did not sit well with its neighbors, most of which live across the street in Stranahan. Developer and Clayton resident Bill Jordan in November presented plans for a 60-unit, three-story development. After hearing neighbors concerns, he redesigned the project to the smaller, 44-unit, two-story buildings. The condos will be three- and fourbedrooms. Attached to some of the full-size condos will be smaller, onebedroom, 400 square-foot units. The smaller units can be sold individually. The pared-down development didn’t do much, however, to ease neighbors concerns. It was clear early on that the push-back was against any high-density housing on the lots which were identified as possible affordable housing sites as early as 2004.

MARRIED AT THE MUSEUM The Joel Clayton home saw history in the making when curator Rene Wing and Jeff Crady were married in the parlor at the museum on Main Street last winter. Some 40 friends and family packed the tiny house for the ceremony officiated by Janet Easton and Charmetta Mann, long-time members of the Clayton Historical Society and friends of the couple. Jeff and Rene have been part of the fabric of the Clayton community since 2002. Their daughters attended Mt. Diablo Elementary, Diablo View Middle School and Clayton Valley High. They live in Dana Farms. “Having the wedding at the museum was the right choice,” Rene said. “It sparkled like a jewel with all the lights and decorations.”

GOOD EATS AT CVCHS In 2015, CVCHS Chef Wayne Wells created a mini food revolution. All the food is prepared on-site, from scratch, and served up by Wells himself, dressed in his official chef ’s jacket or his young, red-jacket wearing assistants. At $2.25 for a restaurant quality, made-to-order omelet, fresh fruit, milk, and a choice of hash browns or whole wheat biscuit, the meal is a deal. Director of Student Services Miguel Romo adds, “The omelets are amazing. I’ve never seen fresh made A ROCKY RELATIONSHIP Neighbors of the Clayton Quarry omelets at a school before. The kids who were hoping that mining opera- love it.” tions at the Mitchell Canyon site were REVVING UP AUTO SHOP nearing an end kicked up dust this The CVCHS auto shop was fueled year when CEMEX Corporation moved to amend the terms of their this year by a $300,000 grant from the current use permit and extend opera- Rotary Club of Clayton Valley. Club president Dave Kemnitz, tions down another 200 feet. They would also leave the lake in the pit who owns D & H Auto Repair with open when mining operations end, two shops in Concord, recognized instead of filling it in as originally that the state of auto repair instrucrequired. The lake would provide tion was broken down at the high water storage for flood control and school level. “With more than 60,000 jobs fire suppression. CEMEX proposed changes to the available, we see the need to put fire original revegetation plan, which in the bellies of young people,” said called for planting trees on the bench- Kemnitz. “It’s become necessary to es rising above the pit, saying they grow our own help.” were impractical and unsafe.