JAN 25 Clayton Pioneer_2013

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

January 25, 2013

925.672.0500

CVCHS has a new look for the new year

Jason Rogers photo

ATHLETES AND TEAMS COMING TO CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL for the first time this year will probably do a double take when they see the turf on the Gonsalves Stadium floor. Lacrosse, soccer and football teams will have to get used to the black all-weather surface that was laid down in the past month replacing the original turf which was installed in 2004.

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Students returning to Clayton Valley Charter High School after the long three-week holiday break were greeted with a

science building, 2,000 freshly painted and repaired red lockers in the educational wings and a nearly complete black all-weather turf in Gonsalves Stadium.

And CVCHS operations

director Pat Middendorf says more changes are on tap. One of the more significant ones doesn’t entail new facilities but rather new eyes. The school is now monitored by a three-person

security staff that patrols the entire complex during all hours when school isn’t in session.

Middendorf explains that with the investment in so much new infrastructure the charter

high school wants to make sure the improvements and upgrades are secured. Measure C-funded projects for Clayton Valley will also include new security cameras and more outside lighting.

Once-injured Oakhurst owl soars to freedom above golf course

The new lockers greeted the students last week. The process challenged staff to get them all assigned to students, who removed all their belongings

See Turf, page 4

Medrano to serve jail time for felony embezzlement Longtime Clayton business and civic leader sentenced to three years

JULIE PIERCE

MAYOR’S CORNER

TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

City seeking answers for reduction at fire station We are all very frustrated at the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s closure of our 24/7 fire station by staffing it only Monday through Saturday, 2 p.m.-8 p.m.

To figure out where we go from here, the fire district will host an informational meeting on Jan. 23 (between my press deadline and the time you get this paper). To make sure all residents have a chance to view the meeting, your city is paying to videotape it for rebroadcast 24 times over the next six weeks on CCTV, Comcast Channel 26.

Tamara Steiner

FORMER VICE-MAYOR, Joe Medrano, checks messages as he waits for sentencing outside the courtroom.

Jason Rogers photo

A YOUNG GREAT HORNED OWL WAS RETURNED TO THE WILD AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB ON JAN. 12. The owl spent nine months in a wildlife center recuperating from injuries it sustained after being attacked by a dog in April.

See Mayor, page 6

Fire Station Meeting What: CCCFPD Chief Lauder to answer questions about the closing of Station 11 When: Jan. 23, 7 p.m.

Where: Clayton Community Library, Hoyer Hall

A young, great horned owl, rescued on the Oakhurst golf course last spring and nursed back to health, came home last week and was released to return to the wild.

The owl was barely a week old when he fell out of his nest last April and was attacked by a dog. An Oakhurst staff member found him on the ground with

multiple lacerations and puncture wounds around his left eye.

The injured owl spent several days at the Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek before being transferred to the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley (WCSV), where he spent the next nine months learning to be an owl. He moved in with a slightly older, but non-

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Car Tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Community Calendar . . . . .14 Design and Décor . . . . . . . .15 Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5

releasable, great horned owl that was already in residence.

“It’s important that young wild animals be raised with their own species so they don’t get attached to humans,” said Ashley Kinney, a staff member at WCSV. “He seemed comforted to have a buddy to perch with.”

The young owl had an insatiable appetite and he soon out-

Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . . .7 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .16 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 PHMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . .9

grew his shared quarters. The next move was to the center’s 50-foot raptor flight aviary, where he spent four months learning to fly and hunt.

This month, staff deemed the young owl mature enough to return to the wild. More than 30 observers gathered on the bal-

See Owl, page 3

Pioneer Photo Album . . . . .18 Police Activity Report . . . . .13 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Teen Speak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

It is a political implosion more worthy strife-ridden cities like Chicago and New Orleans, not sleepy little Clayton: A successful city councilman, philanthropist and local business leader now finds himself behind bars, sentenced to three years in prison for felony embezzlement.

When a San Mateo County judge sentenced former Clayton Vice Mayor Joseph Medrano on Jan. 11, Medrano’s attorney, Matt Oliveri, made a desperate, last minute bid for leniency, calling his client’s actions “a mistake…a bad decision.” He asked for probation based on Medrano’s civic activities, his family responsibilities and his lack of criminal record.

See Medrano, page 7

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 25, 2013

Relay For Life calls for Barbara Allen kicks up her heels on 80th birthday leaders and participants

Around Town Arlene and Dave Skuba mark 55 years

Barbara Allen marked her 80th birthday with a celebration on Nov. 30 that started with dinner at the Oakhurst Country Club and ended with some rockin’ and rollin’ at the Clayton Club. Barbara had no trouble filling her dance card with willing partners.

The Oakhurst dinner for 24 was planned by daughters Vicki Sosey and Debbie Alvod.

Barbara is an active member of the Clayton Historical Society and is a familiar face at the museum.

Kohns on the field at Candlestick

Arlene and Dave Skuba celebrated their 55th anniversary this month with a three-day trip to Monterey.

They were married on Jan. 12, 1958 at Queen of All Saints Catholic Church in Concord and honeymooned in Las Vegas.

Arlene and Dave have been Clayton residents for 30 years

and lived in Concord prior to living in Clayton. They had two children, Kathy Michele Skuba (deceased) and David Jr., who resides in Concord with his wife, Lana, and four children: David, Travis, Clint and Tanya. The Skubas celebrated with family at a special dinner after their trip.

AT THE 49ER GAME AGAINST THE ARIZONA CARDINALS on Dec. 30, Max and Jeff Kohn were selected to make the “Delta Delivery of the Game” to the 49ers mascot Sourdough Sam on the field at Candlestick Park during pre-game activities.

City bids farewell to Jimmy Hernandez

At the Jan. 15 council meeting, Mayor Julie Pierce expressed the city’s gratitude for retiring postal worker Jimmy Hernandez’s long service to the residents of Clayton. He is retiring after 23 years.

“We will miss Jimmy’s great smile and ‘can-do’ attitude,” said Pierce.

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Coming Soon!

Send your news of births, engagements, weddings, special recognitions, travels, parties, etc. to info@claytonpioneer.com Please attach your photos to the email as JPEG files between between 3MB and 6MB and include a caption to identify people in your photos.

Or go to our website Claytonpioneer.com and submit your news and photos to us with one of our online forms found under “Let Us Know.”

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The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Clayton begins Feb. 7 at 6:30 with a party at Mazzei Realty, 6160 Center St. in Clayton. Existing team captains and members are encouraged to attend as well as anyone interested in participating in this year’s fundraiser on Aug. 3 and 4 at the Clayton Community Park.

Clayton’s Relay committee is looking for new ideas and help to expand the 24-hour event. Relay For Life planning meetings are on the second Thursday of the month, 7 p.m., at St. John’s Parish, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. For more information, contact Event Chair Mindy Thompson at tinklover70@gmail.com or 2075564; relayforlife.org/claytonca.

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January 25, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Concord Rec taking signups until Feb. 15 for adult kickball teams Concord Parks and Recreation is taking team registrations for one of the fastest growing adult sports in the country – adult kickball. The game is played following the rules for softball, except there is no bat involved, and the ball is of the big, red, rubber variety.

The coed leagues are recreational and start in March.

Teams can choose to play Sunday, Tuesday or Friday evenings. The schedule calls for a seven-game season with single elimination playoffs for qualifying teams. Rosters are limited to a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 20 players per team. All games are played under the lights at Willow Pass Park.

“Our leagues are all coed

and are perfect for family and company teams. Our goal is to provide a fun, relaxing, recreational opportunity for adults of all ages,” says coordinator Kathie Leavitt.

The registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 15. For more information, visit www.teamsideline.com/concord or call (925) 671-3423.

Healing the Heart Grief Workshop starts Jan. 29

Owl, from page 1 cony at Oakhurst Country Club to watch the release on the afternoon of Jan. 12.

Mt. Diablo Elementary School student Kaylee Sutton, 10, was chosen to open the owl’s cage. Kinney asked the crowd to step back as the team positioned the carrier on the stone ledge and Kaylee pulled

KAYLEE SUTTON DONS PROTECTIVE GLOVES as the team from the WCSV team prepares to release a great-horned owl back to a life in the wild at Oakhurst on Jan. 12.

the door open.

But, then … nothing happened. It had been a long time since the young owl had seen his home turf and at the moment, the carrier must have looked a lot safer.

“We waited and waited – about 10 minutes or so,” said Oakhurst’s Nina Voss. “Ashley tapped on the carrier and repositioned it a few times.”

The team finally decided to lift the lid off the carrier and the young great horned owl took flight.

“Everyone gasped as the owl took off, wings spread wide and free, soaring through the sunset above the golf course,” said Voss. “It was worth the wait.

“He flew straight out over the trees and then with one big swoop down to the left into the trees, he was gone.”

Healing the Heart is a sixweek workshop for those who have suffered the death of a loved one. The group meets on Tuesdays from 7:30 to 9 p.m., starting Jan. 29, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord.

The Healing the Heart workshop is a Christ-centered program, but one does not have to be a member of St. Bonaventure’s parish or be Catholic to attend. It is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one. The loss may have been a recent one or a long time ago. The grief ministers have also lost someone who is dear to them and they know the value of having someone listen with their heart. They recognize that each person’s grief is unique.

Please call Janie Eddleman at 623-6254 to register by Jan. 26.

WCSV is the largest wildlife rehabilitation center in Santa Clara County. For more information, contact Janet Alexander at (408) 929WILD or go to wcsv.org.

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Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 25, 2013

Marsh Creek road repairs complete

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

A SHARP-EYED COUNTY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR prevented a potential sinkhole disaster after heavy December rains washed out a culvert on Marsh Creek Rd.

County crews wrapped up work to repair a washed out culvert at Marsh Creek and Morgan Territory Roads last week.

The potential sink hole was discovered Dec. 18 by county maintenance supervisor Richard

Montoya while on a routine inspection after heavy rains.

Montoya noticed that the shoulders of the road were beginning to dip where runoff from the hill crosses under Marsh Creek and empties into

the creek. When he looked into the culvert, he could see that the old pipe had become separated and soil and water were beginning to erode under the road.

Crews placed steel plates over the washout which acted as a bridge, said county senior civil engineer Allison Knapp. This kept the road open while materials were ordered and repairs planned.

Marsh Creek Road is a major commute artery from East County and minimizing delays was a high priority, said Knapp.

The crews didn’t start working until after 9 a.m. and worked on half the road at a time, which kept traffic moving with few delays.

Repairs took five days and cost about $115,000.

Turf, from page 1 from the school grounds before the holiday break so that every locker could be inspected, needed repairs made and then painted in a striking red color that the students helped select.

The lush new FieldTurf for the football, lacrosse and soccer teams was completed last week and a soccer game played on it last Saturday. The black turf is unique in California and features an enlarged Eagle logo at midfield. The original turf at Clayton Valley was installed in 2004. School officials point out that the black turf only adds one to three degrees to the temperature on the surface.

Gonsalves Stadium will have additional Measure C project work done through the end of summer with 500 seats added to the bleachers on each side of the field and a new snack shack that will also have men’s and

women’s restrooms, alleviating the need for portapotties. A new synthetic running track will also go in following the end of the high school track and field season.

The current snack shack will be converted to storage and a room for athletic trainer Achilles Walker’s program.

The new scoreboard for Dan Della Gymnasium was delayed in manufacturing and is slated for installation after winter sports season so as not to disrupt scheduled events.

The two science labs adjacent to F Wing began being used for chemistry classes in January.

Ongoing technology upgrades include enhanced hardwired and wireless accessibility for every room plus new computer hardware being installed throughout the facility.

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NEARLY 2000 LOCKERS newly coated in student-selected red paint greeted the Clayton Valley Charter High School student body when they returned from the three-week holiday break to begin their second semester.

Operations director Pat Middendorf said it took a full week to get all the students situated in their new lockers.

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January 25, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

Directory of Advertisers Auto Clayton Auto Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-1000 Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900

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

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ew Irfan and crlocation. is th at k are bac nce 1991. mmunity si co e th g n ervi

TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design

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P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor

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CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send Church News to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com

Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com

Send Classified Ads to classified@claytonpioneer.com

CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word Non-profit: $24 for first 30 words, $.20 each additional word To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 6720500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Mon.-Fri. Or, you may fax your typewritten ad and credit card information to (925) 672-6580. All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer

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reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you.

Also on our Website are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 250 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion.

Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.”

E-mail your letter in a Word document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.

Classified FOUND Small dog on Morgan Territory Road on Jan. 14.

Call to identify at 689-1942.

FOR RENT Sublet large (about 250 sq. feet) furnished office near Centre Concord/bowling alley.

685-4523.

FOR SALE Stackable, white Kenmore washer/dryer combination.

Perfect size for apartment or duplex. Works beautifully. $350. Call 628-8167.

CHILDCARE/ PRESCHOOL Clayton Community School at Mt. Diablo Elementary offers school-age childcare 6:45 a.m. - 6:15 p.m. Preschool 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. Please call 672-0388 for details.

SERVICES Flower Gardening by Nicole Hackett Perennial, ornamental, rose and container care. Keep your garden in flowers this year with monthly fertilizing and pruning visits. Email for consultation or details.

Gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.

SENIOR SERVICES Getting you out and about.

Local mom, active in the community, offering non-medical and practical help: shopping, errands, salon, doctor visits.

Transportation included.

Seniors About Town, Terri Gerow at 330-5090.

WANTED Organist/Accompanist Use grand piano and 21-rank pipe organ to enhance Sunday and special services. Direction of hand bell choir possible.

May consider selectee’s use of church instruments for private instruction. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Concord.

682-8410.

Come join Mazzei Realty!

Currently interviewing and hiring new and experienced real estate agents. Call 693-0757 for details.

Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today 672-8787. Volunteers Needed Help Fight Hunger Anna Chan – AKA: The Lemon Lady needs your help!

Weekly commitment appreciated. For more info and contact numbers, go to thelemonlady.blogspot.com.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

It’s the New Year – time to start seeing the world!

Go on, start the New Year on the right foot – take your family on a Club Med all-inclusive getaway from $799 per adult.

EVERYTHING INCLUDED IN ONE CONVENIENT PRICE: • Enhanced accommodations • Gourmet dining throughout the day • Land & water sports with lessons & top-of-the-line equipment, including the flying trapeze

• Children’s Clubs providing specialized facilities and age appropriate programs for children 4 months** - 17 years • Children under 4 stay for free this summer! From April 27 to October 26, 2013***

Book by March 5, 2013 for travel between January 12, 2013 and August 23, 2013, including Spring Break and Easter Passover!

• Full open bar serving alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages

For More Information or to Book, Contact Contra Costa’s Club Med Specialists at:

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*Price is per adult, double occupancy based on a 7-night stay in a Club Room at Sandpiper Bay. Offer requires a 3-night minimum stay to qualify, 7-night minimum if traveling to Columbus Isle. Offer available at select resorts and does not include airfare. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates between 1/12/13 – 8/23/13 and must be booked by 3/5/13, subject to capacity control and may increase at any time. **At extra cost for children aged 4 month to 4 years old. ***Children under 4 years of age stay for free at select resorts. Valid for new individual bookings for travel from 4/27/13 through 10/25/13, subject to availability and does not include airfare. Children under the Kids Free program must stay in the same room or in a connecting room with the adults. Holiday blackouts apply. For Turkoise all guests must be 18 or older. For Columbus Isle, all guests must be 2 or older. Club Med Membership fees of $60 per adult and $30 per child are additional. Other restrictions apply including brochure terms and cancellation/change fees. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. CST#: 2020955-50.

Hospice of the East Bay Help needed at Hospice of the East Bay Concord Thrift Shoppe located at 5350 Clayton Road, Concord. 6749072. For information contact Carmen Siems, volunteer coordinator at 887-5678 or carmens@hospiceeastbay.org.

Clayton Historical Society Museum The Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter for two hours per month from 2-4 p.m.

Wednesdays or Sundays. Call the museum at 672-0240 and leave your name. Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Minimum age 13.

Minimum commitment is 6 months. Some training provided. Contact: Arlene at 6739777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com.

Check out the Clayton Pioneer’s new website: claytonpioneer.com

Chiropractor Coflin Chiropractic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0500 Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 Iron Horse Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .595-3951 RS Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .408-2818 Steffan Smith Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0497 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dentistry Perfect Smiles Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . .889-9212 Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Cup O’Jo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5105 Memo's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0395 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737, ext. 205 Financial and Insurance Services Held, Chris – Morgan Stanley Smith Barney . . . .930-3815 Leraul, Luciann – CPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .518-9076 Littorno, Richard – Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . .432-4211 Miller, Tom – CPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .354-1385 Prosperitas Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7700 Travis Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-877-8328 Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Home and Garden Abbey Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Clear Splash Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6245 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Diablo View Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8300 Flooring City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-8220 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Pet Services Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Pittsburg Pet Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Rodie's Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Real Estate and Mortgage Services French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Gray, Heather – Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .765-3822 Howard, Don – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . .408-3184 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . . .567-6170 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Diablo FC Soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-4625 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Kali Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276-0845 Senior Services Courtyards at Pine Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-3900 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Montecito – Oakmont Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . .852-6702 Services, Other ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Travel Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840

Self-Discipline Do the Right Thing

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Mayor, from page 1 It will be aired 8 p.m. Mondays, 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays, noon Fridays at 4 p.m. Sundays. I hope the fire district will present some answers to the troubling safety and financial concerns we have all been raising.

City staff has been diligently assembling the information from the county and fire district, other cities with station closures and other resources to help us determine whether there are costeffective means to reopen the station through other alternatives –whatever those might turn out to be.

The City Council formed an ad-hoc committee on fire and first-responder emergency medical services. We will be conducting community and informationgathering meetings and residents are welcome to attend. Please come and lend your constructive ideas and energy to help resolve the public safety issues raised by the fire district’s action. Our committee’s first meeting will be 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, in Hoyer Hall at the Clayton Library.

Ultimately, it lands squarely on the shoulders of the county fire district to use the property taxes it collects as a special district to provide services to our community.

We should not jump too quickly

to absolve them of that responsibility.

The one thing we cannot support is putting the city of Clayton and its residents in a position that will incur long-term taxpayer expense without an ongoing, dedicated and protected source of revenue to pay for such services.

The unknowns down that road are huge and it must be travelled cautiously. We don’t know yet what level of funds will be required to provide replacement fire and first-responder emergency medical services.

I expect that there will be much more momentum countywide on this issue in the near future. The fire district stated it will need to close two more stations elsewhere in the district by July 2013, stretching resources even further. That action will result in a cumulative 21 percent district-wide reduction in resources.

Those who perceive they are untouched by this round will likely join the chorus at that point and we will have allies in our quest for accountability and restoration of services.

As always, you can contact me by email at Julie_Pierce@comcast.net.

Let me know what you think.

We’re here for you.

1026 Oak Street, Suite 200 Clayton, CA 94517 (925) 672-7700

January 25, 2013

Minor injuries after two school busses collide on Clayton Road TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

A minor fender bender between two school busses shortly after school was out on Jan. 11 rattled nerves and caused minor injuries, but wasn’t as bad as it looked.

The two busses, loaded with students from Pine Hollow Middle, Diablo View Middle and Highlands Elementary, were leaving DVMS, one behind the other, when the driver of the front bus stopped unexpectedly and was rearended by a smaller special education bus carrying 10 students.

Five students on the first bus and two on the second bus suffered minor injuries, including a cut lip and neck pain.

The scene looked a “whole lot worse than it was,” said Clayton police chief Chris Thorsen.

The accident involved school children, so the CHP had jurisdiction and responded with three patrol cars. Also on the scene were two engines from Fire Station 11 and three AMR ambulances.

Only one child went to the hospital. She was checked out and released the same day. The other students were all picked up

Tamara Steiner photo

A FAIRLY MINOR REAR-ENDER BETWEEN TWO SCHOOL BUSSES closed Clayton Rd. for about two hours on Jan. 11. Emergency response from Clayton PD, CHP, CCFPD and three ambulances made the collision appear to be much worse than it was.

by parents. According to DVMS principal Patti Bannister, all students were back in school on Monday.

A student on the bus that was rear-ended said the bus driver “got mad at the kids” and stopped in the middle of the

street, “and the little bus couldn’t stop fast enough.”

Students with cell phones called their parents from the bus and many were picked up within minutes. The others were walked back up to the school, where they waited for parents.

“It was all very organized and everyone stayed really calm,” said Bannister.

The driver who made the sudden stop has been replaced, according to Bannister. The Mt. Diablo Unified School District is in charge of the investigation.

Former Clayton city employee, Susan Burdett, succumbs to cancer

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Susan Munoz Burdett died of brain cancer on Jan. 3 at her sister’s home in Anaheim. She was 67.

Burdett came to work for the city in 2001 in the planning department. In 2002, she transferred to the police department where she served as the Community Services Officer until her retirement in 2009.

“Susan was one of the kindest, gentlest persons on staff,” said City Manager, Gary Napper. “I cannot recall a negative

word or thought expressed by her.”

While with the police department, Burdett coordinated Clayton’s participation in the Special Olympics Torch Run and started the “Tip-a-Cop” event at Ed’s Mudville Grill, which raised thousands of dollars for the Special Olympics.

Before her brain cancer diagnosis, Burdett had survived both breast cancer and colon cancer.

She participated in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk for

Clayton History

Breast Cancer in 2004.

Burdett was known for her kind and generous nature.

“Her hand-made blankets were always a coveted item at the city’s Annual Employee Awards Banquet gift exchange,” recalled Napper.

Burdett and husband Mel moved to Visalia after she retired. Mel died of pancreatic cancer in November 2012.

Both are buried at El Toro Cemetery in Lake Forest, Calif.

SUSAN MUNOZ BURDETT

From the Archives CLAYTON BASEBALL TEAM

In 1922, Will Frank, the batter in this picture, played first base and shortstop for Clayton’s baseball team. The catcher in the picture is believed to be George Frank.

The “spectators” in the background are unidentified.

The Frank family is one of Clayton’s pioneer families and many of its descendants live in the Clayton Valley area. The dusty ball field was behind the Clayton Hotel on Main Street.

The Clayton team’s uniforms were grey with dark red pinstripes and a large red “C” on the chest. Clayton played teams from Black Diamond, Concord, and Martinez.

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January 25, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 7

Homeowners move away from downsizing, but they’re still moving Q: What are some of the new trends in our real estate market?

A: Thanks for asking that question. I have found some fun facts to share with you.

The California Association of Realtors put out their latest “One Cool Thing.” It had some interesting details from the 2011 U.S. Census that show the shifting desires of home buyers.

1. One change is that the percentage of homes built without a garage or carport is the highest since the mid 1990s. I haven’t noticed much of this in our area, though it may be more prevalent in urban areas.

Another fact is that twothirds of new homes built in 2011 had a porch, a trend that has been on the rise for almost 10 years. On the other hand, the addition of decks has decreased.

2. For the last five years, the trend has been toward downsizing. But this year, builders are reporting a higher demand for larger homes. There seems to be a renewed sense of optimism in housing. A builder’s survey showed that 84 percent of homeowners between the ages of 18 and 59 have no intention of downsizing, even among

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS Baby Boomers. I find this surprising. This could be good news for upper-end sellers with 3,000 to 5,000 sq. ft. homes that lost significant value during the housing crash.

The survey also shows that today’s buyers are equally focused on more efficient use of the space in their home. One reason for this could be multigenerations moving in together.

A survey by a group of architects shows a higher demand for multi-generational housing.

They also report a higher interest in additions and remodeling, with kitchens and baths topping the list.

3. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that homeowners are moving again. The rate went

Tis the season for refreshing resort wear

JUDITH MARSHALL

FASHION OVER 50 Having survived the holiday season, my thoughts often turn to an exotic getaway to a warm, sunny place. Whether it’s a road trip to Palm Springs or a flight to some fancy schmancy resort on a tropical isle, it will probably involve resort wear.

Resort wear includes everything from casual walking shorts to evening gowns, often in luggage-friendly fabrics and styles that marry functionality with fashion. The goal of resort wear is to make you look great in those pictures you’ll post on Facebook to make your friends jealous.

Originally, resort wear was marketed to affluent shoppers who sauntered around upscale department stores. But today, people of all ages and incomes purchase resort wear.

Here’s what is new for resort wear in 2013:

Natural nudes: There’s something simple and sophisticated about natural hues like creamy whites, soft browns, pale pinks and muted grays – especially when they are paired together or layered.

Flashy colors: On the opposite side of the color spectrum, splashes of color are also on trend. Think deep purple paired with burnt orange, colorblocked primaries and monochromatic reds, greens and pinks. Trade in your go-to black bathing suit for one in an eyepopping color combination.

Native/tribal prints: These prints are never out of style, probably because there are so many variations. The focus this season is on African, Navajo and Egyptian inspired prints – great choices for a free-flowing caftan.

When it comes to vacation makeup, less is more. Opt for an SPF-based tinted moisturizer. For a sun-kissed complexion, sweep matte bronzing powder over cheekbones.

Finally, power up your pout with a high-gloss lipstick.

Now, grab a book (preferably mine) and soak up the winter sun.

Judith Marshall is the author of “Husbands May Come and Go but Friends are Forever.” Send comments to Judith.Marshall@att.net.

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from 11.6 percent in 2011 to 12 percent in 2012 nationally. This rate is still historically low but increasing.

The most common state to state moves are New York to Florida, California to Texas, California to Arizona, Florida to Georgia, New Jersey to New York, New York to New Jersey, California to Nevada, Georgia to Florida, California to Washington and Texas to California.

4. We often talk about homeowners who are having trouble with their mortgages, but nearly

one-third of homeowners are mortgage free. Even with the slump in the housing market in the last five years, the number of homeowners without a mortgage is about the same as it was in 2000. The highest rate of homeowners who owned their homes outright were in New York, Cleveland and Miami. The lowest rates were in Washington, D.C., Atlanta and Las Vegas.

Most of California is in the middle.

5. From Remodeling magazine I found some astonishing

Medrano, from page 1 Oliveri’s plea fell on deaf ears.

Judge Jonathan Karesh was clearly fed up with what he called Medrano’s lack of remorse and failure to make any attempt at restitution. “This was not a bad decision,” he said. “It was a theft, pure and simple…a well planned scheme.” He denied probation and handed down the jail sentence.

Medrano seemed arrogant throughout the investigation and trial, an attitude that irritated the judge throughout the process, Still, when the sentence was handed down, Medrano appeared momentarily defeated and close to tears as he stood emptying his pockets. He gave a slight shrug of resignation as he was led from the courtroom in handcuffs.

Medrano, its Workers Compensation policy was already in place through Medrano’s company and they were sending their premium payments to his office. In June of 2009, he had already received their third quarter premium of $79,815 and put it in his own bank account. In July, they sent him their fourth quarter premium check for another $79,815, which Medrano also banked, never sending either payment to Travelers Insurance, iPass’s carrier. This left iPass without Workers Compensation coverage.

When iPass discovered the theft, Travelers covered the iPass loss and sued Medrano in civil court.

He never answered the suit and Travelers won a judgment by default.

END OF AN ERA The Clayton Pioneer first learned of the charges against Medrano in August 2010, when the newspaper received a copy of the criminal complaint. When contacted about the complaint, Medrano said it was a simple “breach of contract matter…a civil case” and insisted the charges would be dismissed at the preliminary hearing and it would never go to court.

However, he was wrong. In October of 2012, after months of procedural dodging and judicial shadowboxing, Medrano was tried and convicted for felony embezzlement with the enhancement of “excessive taking.” The trial lasted eight days and the evidence was overwhelming. The jury returned the guilty verdict on Oct. 11 after deliberating just a little over two hours.

Medrano will serve 18 months in jail, with the remaining time to be spent on probation. His insurance license was revoked by the Department of Insurance and he is prohibited from working in any fiduciary capacity. As for his community activities, he resigned from the city council after his conviction, effectively ending his political career, since he can never again hold public office.

POCKETED NEARLY $160,000 Joe Medrano’s long slow slide from civic leader and a seat on the city council to a bunk in the county jail began on Feb. 24, 2011 when the San Mateo County District Attorney filed a criminal complaint charging him with stealing $159,630 from iPass Corporation, a Redwood Shores company.

Medrano was iPass’ insurance broker until June 2009. He placed millions of dollars in Directors and Officers Liability (D&O) and Workers Compensation insurance for the company.

In June of 2009, the company’s D&O policy was up for renewal. At the same time, senior management was undergoing a change and Medrano’s renewal proposal came under scrutiny. Finding irregularities in Medrano’s work, iPass fired him and placed the D&O coverage with another broker.

The loss of the D&O insurance cost Medrano thousands of dollars in commissions at a time when he could ill afford it,documents showed. During the trial, the prosecutor produced bank statements that showed his trust account as much as $57,000 overdrawn.

But at the time iPass fired

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facts about female celebrities and their lavish homes. Oprah Winfrey has a home in Montecito, Calif., worth $55 million.

Mariah Carey has one in Los Angeles worth $125 million.

Jennifer Aniston has a home in Bel Air worth $21 million, and Julia Roberts has one in Malibu worth $20 million. Some more modest home prices are Suze Orman, $1 million in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; Michele Bachman, $819,000 in Stillwater, Minn.; and Mila Kunis, $540,000 in West Hollywood.

Some high-profile female celebrities made purchases from other celebrities. Beyonce bought the Miami beach house of Ricky Martin for $12.5 million, while Christina Aguilera bought the Beverly Hills home of Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne

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The size of powerful women’s homes was also interesting. Melinda Gates’ home is 66,000 sq. ft., Mariah Carey’s is 41,000 sq. ft. and Oprah Winfrey’s is 23,000 sq. ft.

Some of these celebrities have unusual amenities. Hilary Duff has a gift wrapping room and a Cognac room. Nicole Kidman has a car elevator, while Viola Davis has a huge waterfall.

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Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Tax Time . . .

So it’s time for the dreaded visit to the tax preparer. Not only is there anxiety about refunds or amounts due the IRS, but there is the stress of looking at your less than stellar paperwork habits (I use Quicken – cheap and easy) and trying to collect the items you need to take with you, particularly if you do itemize deductions on a Schedule A. Obviously, you want to take your W-2s and 1099s. But, be sure to gather up anything else that looks official.

Let’s focus on the things to take that could save you money. Document everything. Tax preparers are getting fussier about not allowing deductions when the evidence isn’t there.

Filing status: be sure to talk about who you supported and who lived with you during the year, even if was only for part of the year.

Medical expenses: Even though it takes a lot of medical expenses to get over the threshold, gather up all the medical expenses not covered by your insurance – lab work, doctor bills, prescriptions, dentists, mileage, etc.

Speaking of mileage, work related (not commuting), volunteering related and medical related mileage all should be in a car log or diary. The deductible rate for some of these is as high as 50 cents/mile. It’s worth it to keep track.

Finally, did you pay sales tax on big ticket items? Bring those receipts, too.

Luciann Leraul, CPA/MBA is ready to take the stress out of tax time for you.

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City of Concord, workers still negotiating raises Panel’s offering doesn’t resolve debate on raises DENISEN HARTLOVE Clayton Pioneer

In these days of high unemployment and tight household budgets, many people would see a large pay raise as a dream come true. But for the clerical and field workers of the City of Concord, it may just be what they’re due.

In an effort to avoid layoffs through the worst of this recession, the 150 or so city employees who type reports, maintain parks and pull weeds from road medians agreed to a contract three years ago that included 13 unpaid furlough days, a freeze on salary increases and a lowering of the city’s contribution to their retirement plans.

The strategy worked.

Although a few layoffs couldn’t be avoided and 119 positions were eliminated through attrition and early retirement packages, most were able to keep

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their jobs.

However, the cuts, combined with the rising costs of living in the area, have resulted in an effective decrease of 19 percent from the remaining workers’ salaries.

Three years later, the city seems to be faring better and tax revenues are rising toward pre-recession levels. The workers, who suffered along with the city hoping for a recovery, want to share in the good times. But city officials aren’t so sure.

SEEKING COMMON GROUND The memorandum of understanding between the city and its workers – represented

by Teamsters Local 856 – expired in June 2012. Negotiations beginning in May swiftly proved fruitless, and a fact-

finding panel convened in August in hopes of reaching common ground. Comprised of a representative from the city and the union along with a neutral chair, the panel heard witnesses, studied exhibits and crunched numbers.

“The interests and welfare of the public favor an end to the furloughs,” the union wrote. Union officials cited increases in the city’s government fund balances, the passage of Measure Q in November 2010 (which added a half cent of sales tax to in-town purchases) and employee morale.

The city said costs including higher pension rates, increasing costs of medical and dental insurance for employees and its ongoing structural deficit as reasons the future may not be

as rosy as some see. City officials calculated it would cost $1.4 million to meet the union’s demands.

PANEL PUTS TOGETHER PROPOSAL In early January, nearly five months after the panel convened, the chair recommended that the city end furlough days and increase workers’ salaries as part of a package that amounts to a 12.3 percent increase in compensation, with the potential for more in the future.

Although it acknowledged that property tax revenues had decreased by $3.6 million since 2007-’08, the panel stated that with expected increases in sales and property tax revenues as the economy improves, “the city’s financial picture is posi-

tive, and it can afford a reasonable increase in compensation to these ... employees.”

The city immediately rejected the proposal. Instead, they suggested a continuation of the furlough days and a 1.5 percent increase in pay.

“We always go to the table with an open mind,” said interim assistant city manager Kay Winer, who sat as the city’s representative on the panel.

She insists the city believes its workers are its strongest asset. “It’s just that our pocketbooks aren’t as open as we’d like them to be.”

STILL MOVING FORWARD Neither side is giving up hope. According to Winer, an additional bargaining session took place since the recommendation came out and she expects more sessions soon.

Meanwhile, the city’s negotiations team plans to meet in closed session with the City Council to report on progress and get direction from council members before returning to the table.

Union vice president Paul Finn remains cautiously optimistic. “We’re open to having discussions,” he said. “With the City Council taking control of the process, we have a better likelihood of coming to an agreement.”

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Like most of Kurt Vonnegut’s novels and nonfiction, “Kurt Vonnegut, The Last Interview and Other Conversations” is short on pages but never on depth of content.

By the time I’d finished reading it, there were post-its on almost half of its 188 pages. Even with the book on my “to review” stack, Vonnegut’s thoughts and words have followed me throughout the day.

For those of us who read

Vonnegut in our youth, this book reminds us why. In our day, he was that iconoclastic writer to be wildly embraced or vehemently shunned. Today, when his books haven’t been removed by worried boards of education, ones such as “Slaughterhouse-Five” are often required reading in high school English classes.

The six interviews included in this collection range from the years 1977 to 2007 and include topics as varied as writing, family, war, friendship, Indiana, philosophy, art, libraries and librarians, and “the bomb.” Vonnegut died in July 2007, one month after his last interview.

Unlike so many of today’s authors of popular fiction, Vonnegut did not major in English or creative writing. He studied chemistry and anthropology at Cornell and the University of Chicago.

“I was 35 before I went crazy about Blake, 40 before I read ‘Madame Bovary,’ 45 before I’d even heard of Céline. Through dumb luck, I read ‘Look Homeward Angel’ exactly when I was supposed to,” he says. It’s hard not to like a writer who believed his critics felt he was “barbarous” and that he “was no gentleman, since I had done hack writing so cheerfully …” and “had not paid my academic dues.”

Born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, he had a happy childhood with vibrant parents, siblings and a rather large extended family. As a kid, Vonnegut got his family’s attention at the dinner table by making jokes. “And that’s what my books are now that I’m a grownup – mosaics of jokes.”

His humor and satire make his comparison to Mark Twain an easy one.

Richard A. Littorno

In a 1992 interview, he was asked about the corporate influence into publishing. He answered that he didn’t think it “will be beneficial toward literature.” Reading that answer today makes me wonder how he would feel about publishing now.

Vonnegut came from a long line of “free thinkers,” or humanists. His admitted atheism in no way diminished his innate sense of morality.

For those who read Vonnegut carefully, it would not be a surprise to know he was “enormously influenced by the Sermon on the Mount.”

Editor Tom McCartan’s choice of interviews is so on target, I’ve already pulled five or six Vonnegut books off my shelves for rereading. Pick up a copy of “The Last Interview” and find out why this man will be in print (electronic or otherwise) for a very long time.

And when you next run into a teen who has been assigned a Vonnegut title and asks who the heck Kurt Vonnegut is, just hand her McCartan’s collection of interviews.

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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.’

January 25, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

A tongue-in-cheek look at school limitations Students often compare the long, hard hours faced at school to spending time in prison.

In school, we are consistently indoors working, with countless lectures and endless studying. If we were in prison, we would at least have some activities, games and plenty of outdoor time. And we would be free of homework.

Not only do both prisoners and students have to follow firm schedules, students also lack power and none of us – prisoner or student – want to be there. We are definitely not in charge, and that is made clear to us. In addition, we both have strict dress codes – but students don’t even get those striking orange jumpsuits. And we are both kept

JENNIFER HOEHN PHMS REPORTER longer for bad behavior.

Here are some other distinctions between school and prison: Prison: Three meals a day.

School: Brunch and lunch.

Prison: Can watch TV and play games. School: We wish we could.

Poor attendance costs charter school $200,000 Students staying home costs money and dramatically lowers student achievement.

This was the message in a memo from CVCHS Director David Linzey to parents last week.

The school has lost about $200,000 in revenue so far this year. The biggest losing day was Oct. 31 – the day of the Giants parade. The school lost $8,000 on this day alone.

“Student absences under-

mine both teacher and parent efforts to increase learning and achievement,” wrote Linzey.

“They also undermine my ability to do the job you hired me for; to improve student achievement.”

He challenged parents to improve attendance in the new semester. “If your student missed two days of school this past semester, pledge to miss none.”

Prison: Possible beatings.

School: Bullies.

Prison: Get your own bathroom. School: Can go to a shared bathroom only 10 times a quarter.

Prison: Guards lock and unlock doors. School: Teachers make you stay inside the classroom and decide when you get to leave.

Prison: Allowed to contact and get visits from family and friends. School: Get punished for any attempt to communicate with anyone.

Prison: Not exactly known for good food but at least it’s free. School: Must pay for scraps they dare call food.

OK, in all seriousness, school is clearly a better place than prison. We aren’t surrounded by criminals. We’re able to come home each night and relax – after homework, of course. We can have a social life and a break over the weekend.

There are no breaks in prison, just 24-hour suppression and a desire for freedom. I love my school and would take it over prison any day.

And keep this in mind: The chances of going to prison are eight times greater if you drop out of school.

We’ve had a great first semester at Clayton Valley Charter High School.

Even though students have been challenged with a much more demanding academic program across the board, school spirit is at an all-time high.

Teachers are committed to excellence in instruction true to our motto of rigor, relevance and relationships, as stated in the mission statement of our charter.

This framework is laying the foundation for a college prep education for all students. Our kids will need this opportunity as the vast majority of jobs of the future depend on a college education.

All students are challenged to perform to the best of their ability at CVCHS. We have implemented a no fail-policy to help ensure that all students are learning. This means that students are required to turn in all assignments. Teachers are available after school and sometimes on Saturdays for students who need extra help.

Students and teachers are adjusting well to this huge commitment to excellence, but of course this is a work in progress that we will continue to refine.

The Measure C funds are already being used wisely to make dramatic improvements that positively impact our school. Technology infrastructure is a key emphasis, along with replacing every old computer, adding technology centers and labs and preparing for computer software programs and online textbooks.

Students love the new look of the red lockers. Now that all of the lockers are in working order, any student who wants a locker can have one. We are also excited about the new stadium turf and track. This summer, new seating will be added for both the home and visitors, along with restrooms and concession stands.

Let’s not forget the success of our fall sports. Many teams and athletes competed beyond our league, and the football program had results of historic proportions. The CVCHS Eagles won its first North Coast Section football championship and competed beyond this in a regional playoff game. Unfortunately, we lost a close game at that level and were not able to compete for the state championship. But there’s always next year!

The enrollment deadline for next fall is Jan. 30. We packed the gym for our first parent orientation meeting for new families in November, and early in January we were already almost at full enrollment for the 2013’14 year. We will have a repeat of the new parent orientation meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 28, in the multi use room for any parents or students who missed the meeting in November.

The entire Clayton Valley community has faced the challenges of opening this school with unsurpassed energy and commitment. From the cleanliness of the campus to the savory food offered throughout the day, the sky’s the limit from here.

David Linzey is the Executive Director at CVCHS. Email comments or questions to david.linzey@claytonvalley.org

Kindergarten Orientation & Registration Kindergarten orientation will be held at 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 28 in the Multi-use Room at Mt. Diablo Elementary School, 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton. District employee Kim Klute and Principal Irene Keenan, as well as kindergarten teachers, will be present to answer questions. Kindergarten packets will be available.

Registration for the 20132014 school year is from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 5 in the Multi-use Room.

Kindergarten packets are available for pick up in the school office. For more information, call 672-4840.

New Parent Orientation Meeting, Clayton Valley Charter High School Parents are invited to see what the Clayton Valley Charter High School has to offer at an orientation meeting, 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 28 in the school’s Multi-use Room, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. Students are welcome to attend as well.

David Linzey, Clayton Valley Charter High School’s executive director, encourages parents to join the school in supporting their vision: “We will prepare all of our students to become first class citizens with a world class education and empower them with the 21st century skills that will get them into the universi-

ALEX SHIMBERG TEEN SPEAK Injuries stink. As an athlete, there is nothing worse than watching from the sidelines and not being able to help out your team.

I recently suffered a concussion during a high school soccer game. I was immediately sent to the hospital for a CAT scan, which thankfully showed no hemorrhaging in my brain. I figured I’d be able to play again soon, possibly within a couple days. To my surprise, I had to sit out for more than two weeks.

This seemed unreasonable to me. I felt like I could play but was not allowed to participate in any athletic activity. When I asked why I couldn’t play, I was told that even though I may have felt fine in the moment, if I returned too soon and got another concussion, I could have permanent brain damage.

The tricky thing about concussions is that there is no noticeable physical injury restricting a player’s return to the sport. If an athlete has a broken leg, it is obvious why he or she can’t play. With a concussion, a player may look fine but if he returns too soon he could be as prone to a devastating injury as the kid with the broken leg.

Sitting out was a depressing experience, but looking back I’m thankful that I wasn’t allowed to return too quickly.

My reason for this change of mind comes as more and more research has been conducted regarding the damaging effects of concussions, especially if ignored or left untreated.

From high school to profes-

sional sports, coaches are being encouraged (sometimes even forced) to be on alert for head injuries and send any athlete that might have a concussion to get tested. At the professional level, the National Football League is behind a large movement to inform athletes of the dangers of concussions. In the midst of this movement, strong evidence has come out proving that former San Diego Chargers linebacker Junior Seau’s suicide may have been a direct result of reoccurring concussions throughout his career.

For decades, athletes have been encouraged to adopt a heroic attitude toward injuries and play through them. Nobody wants to let their team down or lose a starting position, so many injuries go unreported or ignored.

It isn’t just with concussions.

Washington Redskins star quarterback Robert Griffin III recently played on an already injured right knee. Late in the last game of the season, RG3, as his fans refer to him, reinjured his knee. He had to undergo total reconstruction of his right knee and will likely never be the standout quarterback he once was.

Most high school athletes won’t make it to the pros. And having a healthy brain and body well into adulthood is more important than acting tough and playing with an injury. Athletes like RG3 who are idolized by youth should be role models by making smarter choices when it comes to injuries.

Research has proven that the stoic attitude toward injuries causes major health problems later in life. The risks of playing injured outweigh the rewards of returning early, and it’s about time that athletes begin to realize this.

Alex Shimberg is a senior at CVCHS and co-editor of the school newspaper, The Talon. He will major in international relations in college and plans on a career in politics. He lives in Concord with his parents and sister.

Send comments to alex@claytonpioneer.com

For more information, contact Helen Bendoyro at 682-7474, ext.

3109 or go to claytonvalley.org.

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Ignoring sports injuries simply doesn’t make sense

ties and careers of their choice.”

He will introduce the school board members, administrative team, academic counselors and academy leaders.

The deadline to enroll is Jan. 30.

CVCHS is focused on offering rigorous academic programs that prepare students for college while also offering guidance programs, athletics and arts programs that prepare them for life in general.

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Academics, sports rise to challenge at new charter school DAVID LINZEY CVCHS Executive Director

Jennifer Hoehn is in the eighth grade at Pine Hollow Middle School.

Her interests are writing and illustration.She also enjoys playing the piano, and has a Glitter Tattoo business with her family. Email her at jennifer@claytonpioneer.com

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 25, 2013

Sports Five Eagle spring sports teams have new coaching look JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

A majority of the teams during the upcoming spring sports season at Clayton Valley Charter High School will be led by different coaches than were in charge a year ago, although most of the new faces have previous experience at the Concord school.

Swimming, baseball, track and field, boys golf and girls lacrosse all have new head coaches as training begins for late February or early March starts to the season Darren Newell is taking over the track and field program, Casey Coakley returns as baseball coach, Shaun Guest will be running the boys and girls swim teams, Mitch McDuff heads girls lacrosse and Jennifer Moore is adding the boys golf team to her girls golf duties from the fall.

Returning head coaches include Matt Hill (boys lacrosse), Stephen Coddington (boys volleyball), Rick Ortega (boys tennis) and second-year coach Kristen Morley (softball).

Newell has been coaching track and field for more than 15 years, getting his coaching start in Pomona as a jumps coach in 1987. After relocating to Northern California, he took a break to help raise his three now adult children and assisted coaching them in everything from martial arts to softball, baseball, basketball, soccer and football. He moved to Clayton in 2001 and four years later joined the St. Bonaventure CYO track team,

Photo by Jay Bedecarré

Photo by Jay Bedecarré

Photo by Jason Rogers

JENNIFER MOORE BOYS GOLF

MITCH MCDUFF GIRLS LACROSSE

SHAUN GUEST SWIMMING AND DIVING

then led by Joe Sullivan. That same year, 2005, he became an assistant coach focused on teaching jumps at Clayton Valley. Since that time he has taken over the head coaching job for the CYO program (2009) and been head coach of the AAU Pleasanton Heat (Concord Chapter).

Athletic director Greg Fister says, “Newell has helped athletes win individual championships, team titles, qualify for state meets and achieve Olympic qualification. He incorporates all the newest techniques, training methods and plyometrics using video-instruction to help his athletes become their very best.”

Coakley was head baseball coach at Clayton Valley in 2007 and 2008 when his brother-in-law Bob Ralston took over the Diablo Valley College baseball team and Coakley led the Eagles to the North Coast Section playoff semi-finals both years. Coakley then jumped to the community college ranks in 2009 at Los Medanos College. Ralston was back with the Eagles for three years before going to Cal State East Bay in the summer of 2011. Herc Pardi coached Eagles baseball last year until Coakley returned as CVCHS Dean of Students and head baseball coach. Pardi will be his pitching coach.

Jennifer Moore will be coaching boys for the first time this spring.

She returned to coach the Eagles girls golf team last fall as they won the Diablo Valley Athletic League championship for the second year in a row led by the DeLong sisters.

Moore began coaching girls golf for CV in 2001 and took the 2010 and 2011 seasons off. She has taught ceramics at the school since 1998 and art in the ClaytonArts Academy since 2007.

While Moore has never coached boys, McDuff and assistant coach Victoria Campbell never coached lacrosse before this spring. McDuff

made his mark last semester as the defensive coordinator for the section champion football team. He began coaching in 2003 for Tim Murphy, now the Eagles head football coach and then leading the Clovis East High team. McDuff coached football at Clovis East and Fresno High before joining Murphy’s staff this year as well as teaching math at CVCHS. The last two years he also was the freshman girls soccer coach at Fresno, winning the league championship last year.

McDuff says, “I am excited to get to know the game and I am always trying to continually learn and improve in all aspects of coaching and teaching. The lacrosse team is loaded with hard-working, dedicated girls who are energized and ready to get the season started. There are currently about 40 girls working out 3-4 days a week after school doing conditioning drills and strengthbuilding exercises. Captains Megan Abcede and Lauren Valory and other girls like Quincy Winship and Alaina Campbell have been leading the practices and drills and have been working extremely hard. They even had workout sessions during Christmas break.”

The new swim coach, Shaun Guest, also teaches on campus. He was an all-America swimmer and triathlete. Guest will also have longtime Clayton Valley aquatics program fixture Dennis Bledsoe serving as facilitator of events.

Hot Stove dinner heats up with Clayton Valley baseball talk JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL began in the 1958-59 school year and three players from that time were at the Eagles Hot Stove Dinner recently. Bud Beemer (left) and Frank Snyder (center) are both now in the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame. John Rubiales (right) was on the first varsity team with Snyder while Beemer was a freshman in the inaugural year and played JV.

Casey Coakley has returned as Clayton Valley Charter High School baseball coach and he renewed a long-gone tradition when he hosted the Eagles Hot Stove dinner earlier this month at the Shadelands Arts Center in Walnut Creek. Coaches and players from Clayton Valley baseball dating as far back as the very first team in the 1958-59 school year up to this spring’s team members were among the sold out crowd on hand to swap stories.

Among the speakers master of ceremonies Coakley called on were Bud Beemer, Scott and Matt Gorgen, Sam Ray and Bob Ralston. Beemer is a charter member of the school’s Hall of Fame and played for Cal and

Unsung heroes, weekend warriors wanted

Washington State before returning to the area as a long-time coach and school administrator.

The pitching Gorgen brothers

(Scott with St. Louis Cardinals and Matt with Arizona Diamondbacks) are both knocking on the door for a major league

MOST OF THE COACHES who have led Clayton Valley High School baseball since its inception in 1958-59 were on hand at the Eagles Hot Stove Dinner. Sharing stories were former coaches, from left, Gabby Lorenzana, Stan Ross and Bob Johnson.

berth. Ray is a scout for the San Diego Padres while Ralston left Clayton Valley and a successful run as head coach two years ago to coach baseball at Cal State East Bay. Besides Ralston (1999-2006, 2009-11) and Coakley (2007-08, 2013), former Clayton Valley baseball coaches in attendance were Tom DiMercurio (196779), Stan Ross (pitching coach 1970-79, head coach 1980), Bob Johnson (1983-92), Joe Panella (1995-99) and Herc Pardi (head coach 2012 and long-time pitching coach). The program’s first coach, Vic Petreshene (1959-66) was ill but has promised to attend next year’s dinner.

Pardi and Coakley reported the event was such a success that they’ve already reserved Jan. 10, 2014 for the second annual dinner.

St. Bonaventure boys win holiday basketball tournament

The Clayton Pioneer is committed to giving the best coverage to everything Clayton.

We get plenty of information from local high schools, sports leagues and clubs. What we don’t hear about so often are from our neighbors who are competing below that radar screen.

There are Claytonians who are participating in sports and recreational endeavors that we don’t normally hear about but we’d like to tell their stories too. If you know of someone – or even if you are that someone – let us know what you’re doing and perhaps we’ll find it something our readers would love to read about!

Some area youth are going to schools other than Clayton Valley Charter or participating on a club sport team that we need to hear from. We always love to report on college athletes from our area.

If you’re running, jumping, hiking, biking, swimming, skydiving, bowling, golfing or participating in any of dozens of other sports and recreational activities let us know.

Photo courtesy St. Bonaventure CYO

Give us a brief rundown and your contact information and we might be in touch with you.

It’s as simple as sending an email to sports@claytonpioneer.com

St. Bonaventure fifth grade boys basketball team celebrated the holiday break by winning the annual Queen of All Saints Holiday tournament with three consecutive victories. The Bulldogs defeated Christ the King, the host QAS squad and Good Shepherd. The championship team includes, from left, coach Kevin Zimmer, Lucas Lauricella, Seth Gwynn, Tyler Darr, Derek Luedtke, Luke Westermeyer, Jason Downs, Tristan Daly, Eric Zimmer, Clayton Seastrand and assistant coach Dave Gwynn.

January 25, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

Sports

CVCHS teams in home stretch to earn North Coast Section tournament berths

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Diablo FC is now aligned with the San Jose Earthquakes and will hold tryouts for the 2013 competitive soccer season for under 9 through under 12 boys competitive teams and U9U11 girls this week Jan. 26-2728 in Concord. Boys born between Aug. 1, 2001 and July 31, 2006 and girls born between Aug. 1, 2002 and July 31, 2006 are invited to try out. Tryouts for girls in the U12-U14 and boys U13-U14 age groups will be Feb. 2-5. There is no charge to try out. A complete schedule is available and players can preregister today at diablofc.org.

SPRING YOUTH, ADULT PROGRAM SIGNUPS NOW AT CLAYTON GYM

Spring youth basketball academy for boys and girls of all skill levels in first through ninth grades is returning to Clayton Community Gym for seven Fridays starting Mar. 15. Signups are also being taken for spring youth volleyball league, which will run on Saturdays from Mar. 2-April 20 for ages 8-16. Adult volleyball league begins a sevenweek Thursday night season Mar. 21 and runs through May 2. Youth Tee-ball league for ages 3-5 is Mar. 16-Apr. 27. Registra-

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CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL‘S KYLE BEHMLANDER is in his 11th year coaching wrestling at his alma mater and has a very inexperienced team carrying the Eagles colors in Diablo Valley Athletic League and invitational meet competition this season with 30 of his 40 squad members first- or second-year wrestlers. His group of senior wrestlers, from left, Matt McCoy (145 pounds), Logan Bangert (195), Dakohta Cramer (171) and Jesse Davis (132) are providing the young squad leadership. McCoy was fifth at North Coast Section a year ago and while the team is in a developmental year he looks to move up at least two notches to earn a trip the CIF finals in March 1-2.

DVAL would give the team 20 wins and most of their six losses came against teams outside of NCS. Clayton Valley won its first girls league title since 1999 in the 2010-11 season and after barely missing out on a repeat crown a year ago look like a lock for another DVAL championship this winter. But from the season’s beginning the Eagles were focused on NCS and hopefully earning another trip to the Northern California Championships as they had two years ago after losing a heartbreaker in the NCS finals.

Troy Sullivan said before the season of his boys basketball team, “We lost almost our whole squad from last year, so we have no clear roles estab-

Sports Shorts DIABLO FC U9-U14 SOCCER TEAM TRYOUTS JAN. 26-FEB. 5

Siding

Clayton Resident

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

North Coast Section championships beckon winter sports teams each February and Clayton Valley Charter High School has four of its five teams turning up the heat in an effort to qualify for this year’s section competition.

During the opening round of games in Diablo Valley Athletic League basketball the Eagles girls were untouchable while the boys recovered from a rough pre-season to jump into a tie for first place in league. Girls soccer is also near the top of the standings while the boys have struggled mightily scoring goals under new coach Jesus Martinez.

Wrestling coach Kyle Behmlander is just hoping he’ll have a chance to get all his athletes on the mat at the same time. “We haven’t had a single meet where our top wrestler in every weight class was available at the same time,” the coach said last week.

“We’ve been hit by a variety of injuries and ailments. In a recent dual meet we had five guys out, four with impetigo.”

The Eagle wrestlers are pointing toward the DVAL tournament, which they host on Wednesday, Feb. 13, as the time they’ll all be ready to go and hopefully qualify for the NCS meet Feb. 22-23.

The girls basketball squad for coach Bernard Barnes romped through the first half of the DVAL schedule with a 29-point margin of victory their “closest” game. They begin the second half of league play tonight hosting Ygnacio Valley as the Eagles hope to finish strongly and earn a good seed in the NCS playoffs. A repeat performance in the remainder of

Trim

tion deadline for these programs is Feb. 25. For more information or to register for any program offered by All Out Sports at the gym, visit alloutsportsleague-clayton.com.

10TH ANNUAL DIABLO FC CRAB FEED & AUCTION FEB. 8 The 10th annual Crab Feed and Auction to support Diablo FC youth soccer programs is Friday, Feb. 8, at Centre Concord. Besides the crab feed dinner and fund-raising live and silent auctions, there will be dancing. Tickets are $50. To get more info or to buy tickets visit diablofc.org.

VINCE BUHAGIAR NAMED TO 3RD STRAIGHT ALL-WAC ACADEMIC FOOTBALL TEAM

Clayton Valley High grad Vince Buhagiar was named academic All-WAC football team for the third year in a row. The San Jose State junior linebacker had to maintain a cumulative grade-point average of 3.00 or higher and play in at least 50 percent of the team’s contests to gain the laurels. He capped the Spartan football season with a victory in the Military Bowl and was a first-team All-Western Athletic Conference linebacker for the 11-2 SJSU squad.

lished. We should know more about where we are after the middle part of December.”

Through the end of last month the Eagles had won only one of 11 games but then split a pair of January non-league games and were 41 in DVAL prior to this week’s first-half showdown with Concord High as both teams posted 4-1 records going into the game Tuesday at Clayton Valley.

NCS

BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS BEGIN FEB. 19-20

Girls soccer at Clayton Valley has a record of success with seven consecutive NCS appearances. Coach Scott Booth’s team was 4-4-4 through 12 games this season

TEAM REGISTRATION OPENS FOR CONCORD KICKBALL LEAGUE Concord Parks and Recreation is taking team registrations for one of the fastest growing adult sports in the country – adult coed kickball. The game is played following the rules for softball, except there is no bat involved. Teams can choose to play Sunday, Tuesday or Friday evenings for the seven-game season beginning in March with single-elimination playoffs for qualifying teams. Rosters are 12 to 20 players with games played under the lights at Willow Pass Park. “Our leagues are all coed and are perfect for family and company teams. Our goal is to provide a fun, relaxing, recreational opportunity for adults of all ages,” says coordinator Kathie Leavitt. Registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 15. For more information, visit teamsideline.com/concord or call (925) 671-3423.

SPRING SIGNUPS FOR MT. DIABLO SOCCER TAKEN ONLINE

Mt. Diablo Soccer is accepting applications for its spring program which begins in March.

Players who participated in the fall season are charged only $50 for spring. Boys and girls 4 to 18 years of age can take part.

Under 12 and older divisions in spring league are co-ed. Spring league ends in mid-May and is

but they lost only one of the Eagles first seven league games, albeit drawing three and facing key showdowns this week with Ygnacio Valley and Northgate. NCS playoff placements are determined Feb. 10 with the championships starting Feb. 13.

Martinez inherited a squad minus 18 seniors from last year’s team that reached the NCS semi-finals for the second consecutive season under former coach Rory Gentry.

CVCHS has found scoring goals a real challenge with a 11 opening league season draw with Concord the only positive result. Martinez knew he was facing a rebuilding process with only a handful of returning players this winter.

generally less formal than fall with players getting the opportunity to play soccer without any post-season playoff pressure.

Email any questions to spring@mdsoccer.org. Registration is being taken online at mdsoccer.org.

19TH CVCHS CRAB FEED & AUCTION MAR. 16 Clayton Valley Charter High School Athletic Boosters will hold their 19th annual Crab Feed and Auction on Saturday, Mar. 16, at Centre Concord.

Tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis and the popular event always sells out. Must be 21 or older to attend. For more info email cvabcrabfeed@gmail.com or go to cvhsboosters.org to order tickets.

OAKHURST ORCAS SIGNUPS FOR SUMMER SWIM SEASON FEB. 27 TO MAR. 24

Head coach Jasmine Millan announced that registration days for the Oakhurst Country Club recreation summer swim team will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 27, from 7-8 p.m. and Sunday, March 24, from 2-3 p.m. Parents will have the opportunity to meet the coaches and their coaching philosophy and learn about practice dates and times.

For more information email coach Millan at swimcoach@oakhurstcc.com.

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Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 25, 2013

Get your ducks in line before upgrading to Windows 8 Free Estimates Call Robert Strong today 408-2818 License#858791

Free Color Upgrades Senior Discounts Color Matching Crown Moulding Drywall Repair Pressure Washing

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK An upgrade to Windows 8 may present some software issues and a learning curve after installing.

First, you need to determine if your computer will physically be able to upgrade to the latest offering from Microsoft. In most cases, the answer is yes. If you purchased your computer within the last three years, your computer hardware is likely compatible.

If you need hardware upgrades, visit a local computer dealer, buy the necessary part(s) and install them. Any computer running an Intel Pentium 4, Core 2, Core 2 Duo or Quad Core CPU will be great. AMD processors are not as desirable but are still a good bet.

You will need 2Gb RAM or more, a widescreen monitor that is less than 3 years old, Direct X with drivers, Internet access, a Microsoft account (like a free Hotmail or Windows Live account), a virus-free hard drive and about 50GB free space. For performance reasons, your drive

should be less than 50% full.

In order to gain the full experience of Windows 8, you may want to upgrade your monitor to a touch screen or purchase a touch pad. A touch device will assist with navigation and your enjoyment vs. using a mouse.

Next, determine if your software will make the upgrade.

According to Microsoft, “To install the Windows 8 Pro upgrade, your PC must be running Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8 Consumer Preview or Windows 8 Release Preview. If your PC is running Windows 7, Windows 8 Consumer Preview or Windows 8 Release Preview, your files, apps and settings will easily transfer to Windows 8 Pro. If your PC is running Windows XP or Windows Vista, you’ll need to reinstall your apps. Some features such as touch might require a new PC.” By the way, Windows 7 touch screen is not compatible with Windows 8 touch screen – go figure.

Reinstallation of your apps means you will need the original CD, the original download file or network access with the setup files. In addition, you should

Club News

GLORIA BLECHA, (left) development associate at Hospice of the East Bay, accepts a “Blossoms for Barbara” delivery from garden club members Dennis Kaump and Linda Karp during last year’s drive.

BLOSSOMS FOR BARBARA

Risk management is not a do-it-yourself job.

Risk is a delicate issue. You know you should find the right balance between risk and opportunity, but how does that translate into investment choices?

Chris J. Held Associate Vice President Financial Advisor 1333 N California Blvd Ste 133 & 100 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 925.930.3815 chris.j.held@ms.com www.ms.com/fa/chris.held

As a Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor, I have the experience, knowledge and resources to help you maintain that balance within your investments. As your Financial Advisor, I will help identify risk, recognize how it could affect your portfolio and work toward minimizing its impact. These are times that demand professional guidance.

Meet with me to learn more.

© 2012 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. GP11-01367P-N09/11 7177601 MAR008 10/12

The Clayton Valley Garden Club invites the community to support Blossoms for Barbara, flowering gifts to touch the hearts of those in hospice care, convalescent homes, those unable to leave home and Meals on Wheels recipients in celebration of Valentine’s Day. Purchase or bring nurseryquality, four-inch, flowering plants and any tax deductible donations to R&M Pool, Patio and Gardens through Feb.10.

Flowering plant delivery starts on Feb. 4. Any donations towards this event will be greatly appreciated.

The club hopes to double their reach in this second year of

the program by including Veterans centers and battered women’s shelters and by adding the Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek and Lafayette areas.

This event was created last year in memory of Barbara Manss, mother of Clayton Valley Garden Club member Linda Manss Karp.

For more information about Blossoms for Barbara, contact Linda Karp, event chairperson, at 5240220 or alohalindak@yahoo.com.

R&M is located at 6780 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton; 672-0207.

The Clayton Valley Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month, February through November, at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St. Clayton. www.claytonvalleygardenclub.org.

Proud sponsor of Clayton Valley Little League

“Hi Tamara: We want to let you know how much we enjoy the Clayton Pioneer.

It really makes us feel connected to the community. When we take the mail out of our mailbox and the Clayton Pioneer is there, it's the first thing we read. Thanks for a great publication.”

SINCERELY, BARBARA AND RON JACOBS

have your license key handy because a reinstall requires reregistration of your software. If you are missing the software or the key, you may need to repurchase the app.

To do your own upgrade, type windows.microsoft.com into your Web browser. You should arrive at the Windows 8 upgrade site. Alternatively, go to bing.com and ask for Windows 8 upgrade offer from Microsoft.

Then, click on the “Get Started” button and follow the prompts.

Microsoft is offering the upgrade for $39.99 through Jan. 31, 2013.

If you run into problems, you should know that Microsoft offers little customer support.

So you may consider upgrading with a local computer expert and leave the problems to them.

The Windows 8 software should be priced the same as when doing it yourself, but the computer business will charge an installation service fee in the range of $200.

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.

Sensors keep track of tire inflation, pressure On vehicles less than 10,000 lbs., 2007 models and newer are equipped with tire monitoring system. This system is used to make sure the tires are set to the proper pressure.

It has been established that a 10 percent underinflated tire waste about 1 percent fuel. So if your car gets 26 miles per gallon and your tires are underinflated, you only get 23.3 miles per gallon. That may not seem like much, but it means you lose 26 miles for about every 10 gallons of gas.

It has been estimated that about 2 billion gallons of gas are wasted each year because of underinflated tires. That’s a lot of gas.

Most new cars have a sticker in the driver’s door showing the proper inflation. Most gas stations have an air station where you can check your tires. If you don’t know how to check you tire pressure, most service centers will check it for you or show you how it’s done.

Each tire has a sensor that sends out a radio signal if the tire is low. These sensors cost between $58 and $325.

The car’s body control module picks up the signal. The sensor picks up both the pressure and temperature of the tire.

Having your tire at proper inflation is also a safety issue. Tires

GARY TAYLOR CAR TUNED that are not inflated properly can have thread separation, sidewall blow out and will skid easier.

The warning light will engage if a tire is low on pressure, if the tires are rotated or if the battery in the sensor is low on charge. Yes, they have batteries that need servicing. On some cars, the spare also has a sensor.

So if all four tires are set to proper inflation and the light doesn’t shut off, the spare needs checking as well.

Before you have your tires rotated, make sure to ask if the shop can reset the tire sensors.

Otherwise, you may have to make a second trip to get the light turned off.

Gary Taylor is service manager at Clayton Valley Shell. Call him with questions at (925) 672-3900

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January 25, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Add cat capers to your new year’s list

ELENA BICKER

PET PALS The new year is a great time to reassess and refine your routines. Here are three ways to shake things up a bit to give your feline friends the purr-fect 2013.

1. It’s playtime. Adding a daily play routine is a great way to help keep your cat mentally and physically healthy. It’s won-

derful for your cat and a lot of fun for you as well. Strive for 10-20 minutes a day, ideally at about the same time every day.

Interactive play is ideal for cats because it stimulates their natural instincts to hunt. Most cats go crazy for interactive toys, like wands and fishing poles.

Keep it interesting by wiggling a wand toy under a mat or rug – most cats can’t resist that subtle movement.

Keep in mind the rule “Hands are for petting, toys are for play,” which will help your cat learn good play manners.

Above all, treat the play session like an exercise session, ending with a little cool down so your cat isn’t left too amped up. Put all interactive toys away when your cat is unsupervised because ingesting components like string

2-year-old Shmi Skywalker is a very sweet, gentle-spirited hound dog who loves attention and toys – not necessarily in that order. Shmi would do best in a home with loving patient guardians who can provide her with plenty of time for human interaction and daily walks where she can sniff and explore and play The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60 percent off one 7-week dog training session.

We are in the transition of a name change between now and Feb. 1, 2013. Our new name is

Pittsburg Pet Resort.

Same Loving Care, Same Staff, Same Owner, Same Location… Just A New Name! We apologize for any inconvenience and value your continued support!

could be deadly.

2. Give your home a makeover. Most cats can never have enough cat trees, window perches and scratching posts.

But you don’t have to spend a lot of money to keep your cat happy. If you live in a small space, wind sisal tightly around a sturdy desk leg, stapling the ends, to create a tall, secure scratching post that doesn’t take up extra room. You can also try utilizing strong wall shelves as high perches. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box – just be

4-year-old Luci is a beauti-

LUCI

ful, petite little lady who loves gentle attention. She may prefer to be your only cat. She will take on the job of entertaining and filling your life with love quite well on her own. Luci is suitable for a first time cat guardian and her adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor.

Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m.

Police Activity Report POLICE ACTIVITY FOR TWO WEEKS ENDING JAN. 17, 2013 ACCIDENTS: Jan. 9, 11:29 a.m. Clayton Rd./El Camino Dr. Jan. 14, 1:52 p.m. 5400 Clayton Rd./Minor Injury ARRESTS: Jan. 5, 1:32 a.m. Clayton Rd./Kirker Pass Rd. A 20-yearold El Sobrante male and two 19-year-old Concord males were arrested for carrying a concealed weapon in vehicle; possession of a billy club; possession of a shotgun; probation violation after being stopped for a Vehicle Code violation.

Jan. 5, 2:15 p.m. 6000 Heritage Trail. A 51-year-old Clayton male was arrested after officers served an arrest warrant.

Jan. 6, 12:00 a.m. El Camino Dr./Yosemite Cr. A female

juvenile was arrested for under 21 with a BAC over .01%; provisional restriction after officers responded to a call for service.

Jan. 10, 2:39 a.m. Keller Ridge Dr./Condor Wy. A 22year-old Clayton male was arrested for DUI after being stopped for a Vehicle Code violation.

Jan. 10, 9:27 p.m. 5400 block Clayton Rd. A 47-year-old Concord male was arrested for public intoxication; probation violation after being contacted by officers on patrol.

Jan. 10, 9:27 p.m. 100 block Nottingham Pl. An 18-year-old Clayton female was arrested after officers served an arrest warrant.

Jan. 12, 2:03 a.m. Clayton Rd./6000 Heritage Trail. A 29year-old Concord female was arrested for DUI after being stopped for a Vehicle Code violation.

Pet Suites Inn IMPORTANT NOTICE TO OUR CUSTOMERS. Please read.

Shmi Skywalker and Luci are ARF’s Adoption Stars

SHMI SKYWALKER

Page 13

Saturday and Sunday. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process.

Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arf.net, or call 925.256.1ARF.

Jan. 14, 8:19 p.m. Marsh Creek Rd./Clayton Rd. A 24year-old Brentwood male was arrested for DUI after being stopped for a Vehicle Code violation.

Jan. 15, 2:15 p.m. 5500 block Clayton Rd. A 34-year-old Brentwood female was arrested on a warrant after being contacted by officers.

BURGLARIES/THEFTS: Jan. 5, Mountaire Cr. Petty Theft.

Jan. 8, Regency Dr. Petty Theft.

Jan. 8, Rialto Dr. Petty Theft.

Jan. 9, Eagle Peak Av. Attempted Burglary/Residential.

Jan. 9, Mt. Whitney Wy. Grand Theft.

Jan. 10, Center St. Burglary/Commercial.

Jan. 13, 1500 block Kirker Pass Rd. Burglary/Commercial Jan. 17, El Portal Pl. Stolen Vehicle VANDALISMS: None reported.

sure what you come up with is sturdy and safe.

For environmental enrichment, a regular “treasure hunt” for treats is easy and fun. Take a small handful of treats or kibble and hide them around the house one by one. Make it easy at first and increase the challenge as your cat gets the hang of it. This activity channels cats’ inner hunter and can keep them from getting bored when you are away. If your cat is on a restricted diet, subtract the food amount from their daily allotment.

3. What’s up, doc? Make sure you are up to date on your kitty’s veterinary exams. Even if you haven’t noticed any health issues, cats should have yearly vet visits. Seniors require more frequent exams. Catching problems early saves money and can extend your cat’s life.

Don’t forget the importance of dental hygiene. Have your vet show you how to check your cat’s teeth and learn a dental care routine you can practice at home.

Familiarizing your cat to her carrier can help make vet visits go smoother. Keep the carrier out all the time, not just at vettime. Prop the door open, keep a soft blanket in there that smells like home and put yummy treats in it daily to get your cat used to going in on her own. Don’t force the issue; you can use clicker training and/or gradual desensitization to get her comfortable with going in and out.

During transport, covering the carrier with a blanket that smells like home can also help your cat feel more secure.

Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 256-1ARF (1273)

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Thank You Clayton & neighbors in Easley Estates This holiday season you helped reach out to those in need & we collected over 1,000 pounds of food for the Food Bank.

Thank You! Heather For updates on my community projects please “Like” my Facebook page ~ Heather Gray, Realtor@ Windermere Real Estate Or call (925) 765-3822

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Page 14

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Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JAN. 30

IN CLAYTON Jan. 26 Child Fingerprinting

FOR THE

FEB. 8 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

men, with music as a common bond, who must find a way to break through their pasts. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$51. centerrep.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 8 – Mar. 2 “Singin’ in the Rain”

AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. claytonlibrary.org or 673-0659.

Tuesdays thru Mar. 5 Patty Cakes

The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and Marsh Creek KinderCare are doing child fingerprinting and photographs for your records. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Marsh Creek KinderCare, 6760 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton. Free. 672-0717.

Story of the first Hollywood movie musical. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $49-$53. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469.

Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. 11 a.m.

Jan. 28 Speaker from STAND!

Feb. 9 The Szymanowski Quartet

Wednesdays Book Buddies

Scott Chavez, volunteer with STAND!, talks about their programs to stop domestic violence and child abuse. Sponsored by the American Association of University Women. 7:30 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Free.

Feb. 10 Camellia Tea Clayton Historical Society’s 36th annual Camellia Silver Tea and Open House. Camellia display and special exhibit featuring Clayton’s founder, Joel Clayton. 1 – 4 p.m. Clayton Museum, 6101 Main Street.

Free. Donations welcome. 672-0240.

Presented by Chamber Music SF. 2:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Tickets on sale Feb. 9 at 12 a.m. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 10 Diablo Symphony Natasha Paremski performing on the piano. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. lesherartscenter.org.

943-7469.

Feb. 11 New Shanghai Circus Fearless performers with boundless energy bring you more than 2000 years of Chinese circus traditions. 3 and 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15-$45. lesherartscenter.org.

943-7469.

Feb. 12 California Symphony Performs The Sounds of Love. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $65. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 15 – 24 “Disenchanted! Bitches of the Kingdom” A brand new, fun-loving, hilarious musical revue proving that happilyever-after can be a royal pain in the ass! Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469.

Feb. 19 A Passion for Art Clayton Valley Art Collaborative’s February coffee. Opportunity for local artist’s to present projects and techniques. Art sales. Non-artists welcome. 7 – 8:30 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. $5 donation. Prospective artists must contact Julie VanWyk at jvwcrr@comcast.net or Nancy Garrett at ngarrett@astound.net by Feb. 11.

EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Jan. 25 – 27 “Princess Ida” Lamplighters Music Theatre’s performance of Gilbert and Sullivan’s “Princess Ida.” Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25-$54. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 25 – Feb. 9 “Down an Alley Filled with Cats” Australian thriller set in a rare used book shop in Sydney. Diablo Actors’ Ensemble Theatre, 1345 Locust St., Walnut Creek. $10-$25. diabloactors.com.

Jan. 25 – Feb. 10 “The Spots of a Leopard” Onstage Theatre performs this comedy by John Baker. Cue Productions Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. 518-3277.

Jan. 26 Winds Across the Bay Premier Bay Area Youth Wind Ensemble encouraging the love and support of instrumental music. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Jan. 27 Vocal Gems of the Ragtime Era

Feb. 17 Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra Composites. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 23 Parenting the Child with Special Needs Mini conference. 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Loma Vista Adult Center Multi-use Room, 1266 San Carlos Ave., Concord. Register at www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/adulted.

Mar. 28, April 4 Getting on the Air Two-part seminar to develop your amateur radio license getting-onthe-air skills. Held by Salvation Army and Mt. Diablo Amateur Radio Club. 7 – 9 p.m. Salvation Army, 3950 Clayton Road, Concord. Class is free. $5 materials fee. Registration required. hamradioclass@gmail.com.

CHURCHES AND RELIGION Feb. 8 Baha’i, interaction, fellowship and discussion. Topic: Baha’i Faith: Its History and Beliefs. Speaker: Henry Miller: Educator with master’s degree in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology. 7:30 p.m. Free. For directions, call 672-6686.

FUNDRAISERS Feb. 2 Crab Feed All-you-can-eat crab feed. Annual fundraiser by Knights of Columbus 6038 to support local charities. 6 p.m. St. Bonaventure, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Must buy tickets in advance. $40. Contact Pat Deplazes at 685-2573 or Art Shingleton at 849-5446.

Sparkling sampler of songs from the ragtime era. 2:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Starting Jan. 29 Healing the Heart A safe place to express grief and begin healing after loss. Six weeks on Tuesdays, 7:30 – 9 p.m. St. Bonaventure, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Register by Jan. 26 with Janie Eddleman at 623-6254.

Feb. 1 - 2 Smuin Ballet

Thursdays thru Mar. 7 Picture Book Time Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver.

11 a.m.

Sundays thru Feb. 24 Computer Science Club Introduction to computer science for high school students. Led by Mike Fine, veteran in technology industry and member of Curriculum and Instruction Committee at CVCHS. 1 – 2:30 p.m. Contact michaelcfine@gmail.com for more information.

Jan. 28 Meet Mr. Lincoln History comes to life as Kevin Weinert portrays the 16th President.

Time for questions. For children in elementary and middle school.

7:40 p.m.

Feb. 2 – Mar. 2 Chill Out and Read For K through 2nd graders. Pick up reading record, read 10 books and return for a prize. Dr. Seuss read-in on Mar. 2 from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Feb. 9 Solar Energy Basics for Homes and Farms Learn about solar technologies and the key steps to going solar.

10:30 a.m. Space is limited. Registration required. ccclib.org or 6730659.

Feb. 11 Clayton Library Book Club Sunny Solomon leads the discussion of “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Shermann Alexie. Group open to anyone who would like to join. 7 p.m.

Feb. 20 Electronic Book Gadgets Program to get you acquainted with your new gadget and take advantage of the library’s e-books. 7 – 8:30 p.m. Registration required. ccclib.org or 673-0659.

The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. 646-5455.

Jan. 25 - 27 Book Sale The Friends of the Concord Library will hold a winter book sale in the library’s community room. Proceeds benefit the Concord Library. Fri. and Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sun. 1 – 3 p.m. Books from 25 cents to $1.

Sunday bag of books for $3.

SCHOOLS Jan. 25, 26 “Lend Me a Tenor” Clayton Arts Academy Advanced Drama Troupe presents Ken Ludwig’s hilarious comedy. 7 p.m. Clayton Valley Charter High School, Multiuse Room, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. $5. elizabeth.emigh@claytonvalley.org or 682-7474, ext. 2678.

GOVERNMENT

Feb. 8 Dinner and Auction

1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council

Midnight in Havana is the theme for this year’s fundraiser by the Friends of Civic Arts Education Foundation to provide supplies, equipment and scholarships for children and adults to their programs. 6 p.m.

Shadelands Auditorium, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. $95$380. friendsartsed.org. 939-2787.

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

Winter program. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $54-$70. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Feb. 9 Dinner and Auction

Feb. 1 – Mar. 2 “Old Wicked Songs”

Hooray for Hollywood is the theme for this year’s fundraiser by the Clayton Valley Charter Music Boosters to benefit the music department and its students. 7 p.m. CVCHS Multi-Use Room, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. $20 before Feb. 1; $25 after. claytonbands.org.

Center REP performs this inspirational journey of two very different

A volunteer will read stories for children 3 and older. 1 - 2 p.m. Call in advance.

2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

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

January 25, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Incorporate whimsy, practicality into your child’s bedroom decor

JENNIFER LEISCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR There’s so much fun to be had when designing a child’s bedroom or playroom.

Whether you’re creating a pretty pink palace for a pretty pink princess, a visit to outer space with alien and astronaut friends in tow, or a scene straight out of Disney’s The Jungle Book, the creative possibilities for a child’s living space are truly endless.

If you’re looking to create an oasis customized for your child, first determine what subject will send your child over the moon with delight. Perhaps a visit to the zoo or to Disneyland? What about music, athletics, history or outdoor activities like boating, camping, skiing?

Once you have a theme in mind, bend and stretch the concept to come up with something well-rounded.

For example, your daughter loves, loves, loves Barbie. No other toys will do, just Barbie and her pink Corvette and Dreamhouse. Yet the idea of a bedroom dedicated solely to Barbie might just push you over the edge. Instead of premade Barbie bedding and window treatments, stretch the idea into a more sophisticated theme.

Think soft pink and chocolate colored bedding with a hint of

electric pink and basic ivory drapery panels with a feather boa trim. Vintage Barbie posters from the ’60s could line the walls. It’s still all Barbie, just a more refined view of the ever so popular gal pal.

While bright colors are fun, electric blue or zazzle pink on all four walls can be unsettling after some time. Instead, use these wild colors for bedding, beanbags or floor pillows sprinkled around a bedroom or playroom. Just like in the rest of your house, wall colors are best when they act as a backdrop for the main attractions of artwork, furniture and window treatments.

When furniture shopping, strive to buy pieces that will grow with your child. If you’re expecting a child and you’re in

If you want to know about love, just ask a child If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate.

Nikka, 6 My mommy loves me more than anybody. You don’t see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.

Clare, 6 You really shouldn’t say “I love you” unless you mean it.

But, if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget. Jessica, 8 And finally, from a 4year-old whose elderly neighbor had just lost his wife. When the child saw the man crying, he went over to the man’s yard and climbed on his lap and just sat there. When the boy’s mother asked him what he’d said to the neighbor, the little boy said, “Nothing, I just helped him cry.”

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“nesting” mode, it’s hard to see beyond the changing table and crib. But babies do get bigger, and so do their clothes – and the amount of storage you’ll need for those clothes.

Opt for furnishings with cool lines and good storage options, as well as pieces that you’ll feel comfortable modifying as you and your child evolve. For example, a perfectly white changing table could be festive if painted with denim blue and lime green stripes for your son’s bedroom down the road.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Performing Arts

CenterRep leads the pack at snazzy 34th Annual Shellie Awards SALLY HOGARTY Special to the Pioneer

It was all glitz and glamour as the 34th annual Shellie Awards descended upon Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts on Jan. 12.

Those in attendance donned sparkling gowns, oh-so-high heels and creative tuxedos as artists and administrators of local theater renewed old friendships and, if up for an award, tried not to look too nervous.

The ceremony recognizes the abundant talent in the local theater community, with 11 companies (Butterfield 8, Center Repertory, Contra Costa Musical Theatre, Diablo Actors’ Ensemble, Diablo Theatre Company, Onstage Theatre, Pittsburg Community Theatre, Role Players Ensemble, Town

Mike Kirwan

CAST MEMBERS OF THE WILLOWS PRODUCTION OF “ANYTHING GOES” perform “Blow, Gabriel, Blow” at the Shellie Awards ceremony at the Lesher Center on Jan. 12.

nuts were shelled every summer.

The warehouse became a theater that was eventually torn down and replaced by the Lesher Center.

This year’s black-tie event featured production numbers from each of the nominated

Robert Sokol

MEMBERS OF DIABLO THEATRE COMPANY DISPLAY THEIR AWARDS for the company’s production of “Legally Blonde, the Musical” From left, Gia Solari, Best Director; Daren Carollo, Artistic Director; and Krissy Gray, Managing Director.

musicals, along with scenes from each of the nominated plays. Ken Bergmann conducted the Shellie Awards Orchestra, with the talented Jeff Collister, Jerry Motta, Kerri Shawn and Michael White adding panache as the MCs. Center Repertory tallied the

Hall Theatre, the Vagabond Players and the Willows Theatre) vying for the coveted “Shellie.”

Founded 33 years ago by the Lesher Center’s current managing director Scott Denison, the Shellie Awards are named after the walnut warehouse where

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most wins with nine Shellies.

Unfortunately, the Willows Theatre Company came away empty-handed. Forced to close last year after 37 years of providing quality theater to audiences in Concord and Martinez, the Willows put on many innovative shows and a Shellie Award would have been a fitting tribute.

Those receiving this year’s Shellie’s included (musical winners followed by plays) actress: Brittany Danielle (Xanadu, Center Rep) and Ginny Wehrmeister (Pygmalion, Town Hall); actor: Robert Brewer (Little Shop of Horrors, CCMT) and Mark Anderson Phillips (Rumors, Center Rep); supporting actress: Lynda DiVito (Legally Blonde, the Musical, DTC) and Kerri Shawn (Rumors, Center Rep); supporting actor: Derek Travis Collard (Little Shop, CCMT) and Kevin Burns (Laughter on the 23rd Floor, PCT); scenic designer: Kelly Tighe (Smokey Joe’s Café, Center Rep) and Martin Flynn (Picasso at the Lapin Agile, Town Hall); costuming: Victoria Livingston-

Hall (Xanadu, Center Rep) and Liz Martin (The Tempest, Butterfield 8) and Michael Berg (Rumors, Center Rep); lighting designer: Michael Palumbo (Legally Blonde, DTC) and Chris Cuptill (Picasso, Town Hall); director: Gia Solari (Legally Blonde, DTC) and Timothy Near (Rumors, Center Rep); choreographer: Jennifer Perry (Xanadu, Center Rep); music director: Sean Kana (Legally Blonde, DTC); and overall production: Legally Blonde, DTC and “Rumors,” Center Rep. In addition, several theater companies presented Outstanding Contribution to the Arts awards: Butterfield 8, Maureen Theresa Williams; Diablo Actors’ Ensemble, Michelle Hoselton; Diablo Theatre Company, Ellen Smith; Pittsburg Community Theatre, Dianna Schepers; the Vagabond Players, the Pitak family; and the Willows Theatre Company, Dennis Woodard.

Next year’s Shellie Awards take place Jan. 11, 2014 with tickets going on sale on Nov. 5.

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CenterREP’s ‘Old Wicked Songs’ to kick off new year Center REPertory Company’s first show of 2013 is an inspirational story of a young pianist and an aging vocal teacher who together must find a way to break through their pasts.

Hoping to reconnect with his music and shatter the artistic block that’s plagued his career, a young piano prodigy ventures to Vienna in the spring of 1986.

He is assigned to an elderly vocal teacher who assigns him the “Dichterliebe” song cycle by Robert Schumann. Starring Dan Hiatt and Patrick Russel, this story of two very different men whose only common bond is their music was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize in drama. It was written by Jon Marans and is directed by Jessica Heidt.

The show opens Feb. 5 and plays through Mar. 2. All performances of “Old Wicked Songs” will be at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. For showtimes and tickets go to CenterREP.org or call

Join the actors at Butterfield 8 in Concord on Friday, January 18, for a staged reading of the short story “Bernice Bobs Her Hair.”

While visiting her beautiful, alluring cousin Marjorie, in the heat of a Wisconsin summer in the Roaring ‘20s, Bernice looks for a way to launch herself into adulthood. Marjorie suggests something outrageous and unheard of — bobbing her hair.

This tongue-in-cheek, com-

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Love to sing? Have Monday nights free? Take note that there are two organizations welcoming new members to share this passion and have fun.

Diablo Women’s Chorale is preparing for its spring program, “Rollin’ on the River,” featuring mostly American songs in the jazz, rock, pop, gospel and folk traditions. Rehearsals are every Monday night from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 399 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Call Director Mary Sorenson at 256-8961 for a placement audition. For more information, go to diablowomenschorale.org.

The Walnut Creek Chorus performs two concerts each season along with a few sing-outs. Under the direction of Suzie Peterson, the chorus performs music from Bach to Broadway with a little jazz thrown in. Rehearsals are every Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2317 Buena Vista Ave., in Walnut Creek.

There is no formal audition. For more information, contact walnutcreekchorus@gmail.com.

925.943.SHOW (7469). Tickets are also on sale at the Lesher Center box office, 1601 Civic Drive; Ticket Office Outlets at Barnes & Noble in Walnut Creek and the Downtown Walnut Creek Library.

DAN HIATT AS Professor Josef Mashkan and Patrick Russell as young pianist Stephen Hoffman struggle to find common ground in “Old Wicked Songs” opening Feb. 5 at the Lesher Center.

F. Scott Fitzgerald story

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Ashby Stage’s ‘Messenger’ Butterfield 8 roars into 2013 features a modern Buddha with staged reading of vintage

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January 25, 2013

Photo by David Allen.

WORLD-RENOWNED SPIRITUAL TEACHER MAMA SID (Annemaria Rajala, left) and young journalist Raina (Anna Ishida) in the world premiere of The Fourth Messenger.

What if the Buddha were a woman? And if she were alive today, would the world view her life and teachings differently?

The Fourth Messenger, a captivating new musical, imagines a modern-day “awakened one” named Mama Sid. When Raina, a young woman on a mission to reveal Mama Sid’s hidden past, arrives in her ashram, Sid’s carefully constructed world starts to fall apart.

“For years, I’ve been drawn to the legend of Siddhartha Gautama. It’s such a mythic, archetypal journey, but I knew I had to find my own way into the story,” said playwright Tanya Shaffer. “It wasn’t going to be some historical pageant.

It had to be urgent, contemporary, immediate.”

Shaffer’s last play, “Baby

Taj,” was a critical success in the Bay Area. She collaborated with popular singer/songwriter Vienna Teng to create Messenger.

This world premiere marks the first musical theater project for Teng, a beloved indie recording artist. The score features her signature contemporary pop sensibility with a heightened theatricality.

Broadway’s Matt August directs. At once epic and intimate, comic and profound, Messenger explores what it means to be both enlightened and human.

The Fourth Messenger plays Feb. 6-March 10 at the Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave., Berkeley.

For more information, visit thefourthmessenger.com.

ing-of-age story by F. Scott Fitzgerald was adapted for the stage and is directed by Jean Butterfield.

The performance is a onenight-only fundraiser on Jan. 18 at 8 p.m. at Cue Productions, 1835 Colfax St., Concord.

Tickets are $25 and include complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres. For tickets, go to b8company.com, call Brown Paper Tickets at (800) 838-3006 or buy at the door.

Diablo Ballet Company uses social media to help create ‘Internet’ ballet Diablo Ballet of California will become the first professional dance company to create an entirely new dance work from ideas suggested by internet users. “The Web Ballet” will be based on choreography suggestions submitted by individuals all around the world to Diablo Ballet’s Twitter page @DiabloBallet and performed March 1, 2 at Shadelands Art Center in Walnut Creek.

To pass on your suggestions for specific moves, emotions or mood, use the Twitter hashtag #DiabloWebBallet. Or, vote for the music from three selections on Diablo Ballet’s YouTube page at youtube.com/user/diabloballet.

“Diablo Ballet is proud of making dance accessible, and this concept will allow people to participate in the creative

process,” Lauren Jonas, Diablo Ballet artistic director, says.

Those who submit the winning suggestions will receive tickets to the performance and a photo from the created work.

Diablo Ballet is recognized nationally for its use of social media to make dance accessible.

Last March, it became the first professional West Coast dance company to invite people to tweet live during a performance.

Since 1993, Diablo Ballet has been a professional, awardwinning dance company in the San Francisco Bay Area, presenting classical dance works along with innovative world premieres. For more information about Diablo Ballet, go to diabloballet.org. Click on the Performances link for details about the web program.

January 25, 2013

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 17

Ranchers help horses that others have cast aside “There is a touch of divinity even in brutes, and a special halo about a horse, that should forever exempt him from indignities.”

– Herman Melville TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Author Herman Melville’s words resonate with anyone who has ever loved a horse.

Sadly, not everyone who has owned a horse has read Melville.

Take Charley – a dude ranch horse with a sore back. He stumbled once and it cost him his job and his home. Clearly, his owner was not a Melville fan.

And whoever dumped Bob Marley on a feedlot when he was 30 wasn’t seeing Melville’s “special halo.”

When you’re Charley or Bob Marley and the slaughterhouse is the next stop, where can you go?

Well, if you’re a horse with a bit of luck on your side, you will find yourself at the Rocking Horse Ranch with plenty to eat, tender hands to brush and bathe and, possibly, a new “forever” home in sight.

KYRA AND BIG BOB

HELPING RESTORE DIGNITY Nine years ago, Peggy Hetlage and her sister Beth Kennalley each had their own homes, full-time jobs and a hankerin’ for horses. They dreamed of owning land where they could give sanctuary to foundered horses, providing care, medication and a “dignified” end when the time came.

They sold their homes, threw in together and bought Rocking Horse Ranch, eight acres atop a hill overlooking Morgan Territory Road. It’s a place where the old and unwanted wear “a special halo.”

Their first rescue came quite by accident. As soon as they located their property, Peggy and Beth went looking for a riding pony for Beth’s daughter.

What they found was Sally, a 20year-old pregnant mare with Cushing’s Disease whose legs would barely hold her up.

“The owner was dumb on a stick,” Peggy said. “He would beat her to get her to stand up.”

The ranch was still in escrow, but they brought Sally home anyway. She delivered a month later and died just last summer.

Her baby, Rocky, is now the “pride of Rocking Horse Ranch.”

AN EXPANDED MISSION The sisters’ original mission was the rescue and rehabilitation of foundered horses, those with laminitis (a painful hoof disease) and equine Cushing’s disease, a disease similar to diabetes. So, they named their dream Founders Rehab Ranch.

But over the years, they found that older horses, pregnant mares and horses requiring extra care or handling were end-

THE LADIES OF THE RANCH, Sunday, Utopia, Sissy and Taffy, all over 30, are the senior women at Rocking Horse Ranch, a sanctuary on Morgan Territory Road for aging horses and those with special needs. ing up on feedlots. Their vision expanded and so did their resident population. And they changed their name – from Founders Rehab to Rocking Horse Ranch, which Peggy says sounds “more like a sanctuary.”

Since 2005, 67 horses have found a home – either permanent or temporary – at Rocking Horse. Many of these were treated, loved and trained into good health and have made fine riding horses for adoptive families. Today, 19 horses still call Rocking Horse Ranch home.

Ten of these are sanctuary rescues and will live out their days at the ranch. The other nine are in various stages of training and are all adoptable.

Horses are not the only rescues that have found their way to the top of the hill. Goats, sheep and chickens also add to the mix.

Last June, Walter, a fuzzy lamb from Brentwood, joined the goats and sheep that share a pen and a playground. Walter was a

sad by-product of a senior prank at Brentwood High that saw 45 students suspended.

TEENS LEND A HELPING HAND Both Peggy and Beth still have full-time jobs. Peggy is in sales and Beth is a pediatrics nurse with medical training and knowledge which she puts to full use at Rocking Horse. The two financially support the ranch with help from donors and occasional grants. A $4,000 feed grant from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals last month will go a long way toward filling bellies through the winter.

The sisters run the operation with the help of Tressa Overfield, a board member who lives on the property, one fulltime ranch hand, Beth’s daughter Jordan and three interns: Kyra Ortiz, Skyler Seeno and Contractors Lic #879423 Arborist Lic WE-7372A

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

January 25, 2013

Tulip trees a refreshing burst of spring NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL It’s exciting to see that the tulip magnolia trees around town and in the nursery are already in bud. Even though the weather has been chilly, many plants are preparing for the day that their buds become the flowers that we admire.

Tulip magnolia trees are some of the most sought after trees in our Clayton Valley community. When the fantastic, saucer-shaped flowers open, garden lovers begin to swoon.

This ornamental tree lends itself beautifully to Asian and cottage-style. gardens.

Over the past few years, availability of the tulip magnolias has been slim. This year, though, there is a good selection in the sizes that our residents like to plant.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SUN The trees that we call tulip

magnolias are really deciduous magnolia trees. The tulip name describes the shape of the flower. These trees are very tolerant to Clayton Valley weather, desiring full sun and at least six hours of afternoon sun a day.

They create vertical interest in a landscape or garden. The trees are stunning in the spring and then take a backseat to the rest of the landscape during the summer.

When planting, prepare a hole that is twice the width of the tree’s container and one and a half times the depth. Mix a rich soil condition with the

Pioneer Photo Album Lisa York’s poodle, Snookie, heads to Cup ‘O Jo on Main Street for an early morning chai soy latte.

The Pioneer is proud to spotlight our readers’ photos.

Email your photo in a high-resolution format to tamara@claytonpioneer.com with a description of the photo, where and when it was taken and a little about why you like it.

Include your name and phone number.

Then look for it in the next Pioneer.

A CARTOON-LIKE QUALITY Leonard Messel and Royal Star are selections of tulip magnolia trees with flower petals that are less cup-shaped and narrow. They have a spectacular Dr. Seuss-style appeal.

Leonard Messel has pink petals with creamy centers, while the Royal Star is a pure white. These flowers look too unique to be true, almost cartoon-like.

Both Leonard Messel and Royal Star mature to a smaller size than the Nigra. You can expect these selections to reach 10-12 feet tall and about half as

native soil when installing. Take some time to loosen the trees roots. It should be planted looking like it was never in a container. Once properly planted, this tree has few needs other than regular water.

INTERESTING PYRAMID SHAPE Magnolia Liliiflora Nigra is one of the most recognizable selections of tulip magnolia.

The blossom has that familiar saucer shape. Rosy, pinkish-purple flowers cover this large ornamental tree in the spring before the leaves emerge.

Magnolia Nigra can reach 20 feet tall, or more, and 10-12 feet wide.

This tree isn’t the typical tree shape but rather pyramidal with low branching. Install Magnolia Nigra on a slope or hill. It would also be great planted on the outskirts of a landscape. If you have a large area, a group of these beauties would make a breathtaking impact when in bloom.

This tree would benefit from evergreen companion plantings like Loropetalum, Escallonia Matsuda’s Compacta and Electric Pink Cordyline.

wide. Either of these trees would be great near a patio or courtyard.

Again, pair this tree with evergreen companions, preferably a summer bloomer.

Consider Penstemon, dwarf lavender or Sunset Gold Breath of Heaven.

Look at your garden and landscape to see if you have any room for one of these charming ornamental trees.

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Contact her with questions or comments at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

MAGNOLIA LILIFLORA NIGRA

Horses, from page 17 Jordan Deely, all juniors and members of the Public Service Academy at Clayton Valley Charter High School.

This is Kyra’s third year volunteering on the ranch. She spends hours each week grooming, feeding and exercising the horses.

“I love seeing the horses grow and get better,” she said, snuggling up to Big Bob, the old draft horse who’s been on the ranch for seven years.

The goal is for the ranch to become self supporting so the sisters can devote full time to caring for the horses. Several

grant applications look promising and they are planning a fundraiser trail ride this summer.

They hope that a series of clinics for farriers (horseshoers) in the coming months will help generate income.

To donate, sponsor a horse or for more information on the ranch, go to http://founderrehab.wordpress.com or visit them on Facebook at Founder Rehab.

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