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July 15, 2005
925.672.0500
Clayton’s kids kick off fabulous Fourth GREGG MANNING
MAYOR’S CORNER City should require permits for door to door sales Clayton is no longer a “small” town. Granted it still is the smallest city in Contra Costa County but it is close to eleven thousand people. When I moved here in the seventies, people often left their doors unlocked. In election years when I went door to door campaigning I was often surprised when kids who were not school age answered the door and even more so when the door was wide open. When I first was elected to the City Council, I asked why we did not issue permits to people who were going door-todoor selling things. I was not talking about Clayton’s Girl Scouts who were selling cookies, but rather older individuals who were dropped off in vans to solicit door to door. The answer was that these people had rights under the first amendment. I am not thinking
See Mayor, page 6
JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
There were kids, lots of kids on bikes, scooters and skates. They were pushed in strollers and pulled in wagons and car-
ried when all else failed. There were dogs, all shapes and sizes and even a rat that marched down Main Street on the shoulder of its master. There were cars, horses, politicians, scout troops, swim team, church groups, veterans, community
groups and a few floats. Emcee Dan Ashley, Channel 7 News Anchor, put it best when he urged the crowd of about 10,000 to “take a look around you, is this Clayton Country or what?” It was a real hometown
Worse than usual fire season predicted TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
“Big fire…it was a big fire.” This is how California Department of Forestry Captain Denise Ehnat described the fire that broke out around 8 p.m. on July 3 on the north side of Marsh Creek Road near Bragdon Way. It burned about 500 acres before being brought under control and contained around 3 a.m. Saturday morning. The fire, which started near an abandoned trailer about 500 yards east of the CDF Sunshine Station on Marsh Creek Road, was fueled by exceptionally thick, tall grass and threatened
What’s inside SECTION A Around Town . . . . . . . . . .A2 Directory of Advertisers . .A5 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . .A5 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .A8 Just My Opinion (New) . . .A8 Shape Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A9 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . .A10 Your Health . . . . . . . . . . .A10 Book Review (New) . . . . .A11 Community Calendar . . . .A12 Church News . . . . . . . . . .A13 Food For Thought . . . . . .A14 Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . .A15 Food For Thought . . . . . .A14 SECTION B July 4 Photo Contest . . . . .B1 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B2 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B5 Dining Around . . . . . . . . . .B6 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . .B8
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
An estimated 10,000 lined Main Street as Clayton’s kids turned out in force to lead the annual July 4 parade.
several homes along Bragdon Way, charring ground right up to the property lines of some. It burned quickly out of control, lighting up the night skies in a dramatic reminder that fire season is upon us. The fire started near an abandoned trailer on Bragdon Way and burned about 500 acres, threatening several homes and burning right to the property lines of some, before being brought under control and contained around 3 a.m. Saturday morning. “It was a big fire,” said
CDF Capt. Denise Ehnat catches up on the mounds of paperwork that piled up after the Bragdon fire.
Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise served up a heaping batch of pancakes at Endeavor Hall to over a thousand hungry parade goers starting at 7 a.m.
See July 4, page A3
CBCA votes to support landscape assessment JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
See Fire , page 6
parade, just the way Claytonians like it. The theme this year was “Celebrating Our FutureSaluting Our Past.” There was a lot of red, white and blue and at every corner, neighbors greeting neighbors. In true tradition, the Rotary
In a vote at last month’s membership meeting, The Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA) has publicly supported the renewal of the Landscape Assessment District when it goes before the voters in November. Although the Landscape Maintenance District is not up for renewal until 2007, the city’s deteriorating landscape and lack of funds has led to a council decision to host a special election this Fall.
The proposed assessment of $365 per household, up from the current $122.90, is what the Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee is recommending to cover the estimated $60,000 a year in landscape maintenance costs in upkeep of the city’s roadways, medians and open spaces. The tax would also keep water flowing from the city’s fountain on weekends and it would help fund the $2.5 million in deferred maintenance and capital improvements. There is also a $15 allotment
See CBCA, page 6
Ev'ry heart beats true 'neath the Red, White and Blue These young patriots know exactly the right way to celebrate the Fourth of July
Allison Barber, 6 ½
Ian Sullivan, 12
Alexis Lampo, 9
Matthew Grimshaw, 9
Jasmine Picot-Hendrix, 5
Josh Harmon, 12
Madeline Day, 11
Spend time in Kiddieland, see the parade and horses and be with my family and watch the fireworks.
Spend time with my family and friends.
Have a big parade and spend time with my family.
Celebrate with the Clayton Parade. We go to friend’s for swimming and a BBQ.
Be a princess with the Clayton Library in the parade.
Wear the colors red, white and blue, and be proud of it.
Watch the fireworks and be at the parade with your whole family.
Page A2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 15, 2005
Around Town Jody Sparks receives Master Degree
Nikki Damele will wed Dave Ryan David and Nancy Damele of Clayton are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Nikki to Dave Ryan of San Francisco. The couple are 1997 graduates of Clayton Valley High School and will tie the knot on July 8, 2006 at Green Valley Country Club in Green Valley. The engagement took place on Valentine’s Day this year followed by a party at the Damele residence on June 11. Nikki is a high school math teacher and Dave is a systems administrator. The groom’s parents, Bob and Mary Ryan live in Concord.
It’s never too early for coffee
DAVE RYAN AND NIKKI DAMELE
COLE PISHNY, MADISON YORK AND JESSE BARBOSA
Scouts spend night at Alcatraz
JODY NICOLE SPARKS
Jody Nicole Sparks, daughter of Chester and Donna Umperovitch of Clayton, received her Master of Science and Educational Leadership degree on June 9 from California State University, East Bay. Jody lives in Clayton with husband, Tom and children, Lauren 6, Kyle 4 and Ryan 2. She received her Bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s College, is credentialed in Education and Administration and teaches fourth grade at Highlands Elementary School.
Boy Scout Troop 484 spent the night of June 11 in the Block D prison cells at Alcatraz Island. 22 groups a year are selected by lottery to participate in the “Alcatraz Overnight” program sponsored by the National Park Service. These 32 scouts and their brave parents slept in the cells after taking a night tour
Covalts welcome new grandbaby
What’s happening around town? Know someone that’s getting married? Graduating? Did you vacation somewhere interesting or celebrate an anniversary lately? Is there a new baby in town? Has someone you know received an award or been honored for something? Send your “Around Town” news item to tamara@claytonpioneer.com, or go to www.claytonpioneer.com for event announcement forms.
of the island facilities. The Park Service provided the coals and parents and scouts barbequed their supper. The next morning, the Scouts were up in time to watch the start of the Alcatraz Triathlon. Pictured from left, parent Bob Murray, Scout Brendan Sullivan, Parent Mark Hall cook up dinner on Alcatraz Island.
Rocco and Rebecca Covalt of Clayton welcomed new granddaughter Emily Grace to the family on May 13. Her parents are Rex and Michelle Sheridan of
Pasadena. Emily weighed in at 6 lbs. 14 oz. and she was 20 inches long. She is the first child for the Sheridans.
EMILY GRACE SHERIDAN
Three of Clayton’s newest citizens met for the first time for coffee at Clayton’s Cup of Jo café late last month. It was instant “best friends” for Cole Pishny and Madison York. Newcomer Jesse Barbosa was less enamored with the meeting. But all three are looking forward to their next “kaffeklatsch.” Cole is the son of Eric and Gigi Pishney. Madison’s parents are Todd and Lisa York and Jesse is the son of Cup of Jo owners Peter and Kristina Barbosa. Cup of Jo was formerly the Clayton Livery.
See A4 for more Around Town
ding
pen
Ygnacio Woods, Concord/Walnut Creek Border Absolutely stunning 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath tri-level. Vaulted ceiling, wood flooring, updated kitchen w/ granite and newer roof. Open floor plan with park-like backyard and swimming pool.
$769,980
Clayton/Concord Border - Seeing is believing this home sits on .41-acre flat lot with 2 bedrooms and 2 remodeled baths. Inside you will find newer carpeting, large kitchen, indoor laundry and a wood burning stove $599,980
Chappel Hills, Concord - This 4 bedroom 2 baths home has been updated throughout. Inside you will find remodeled baths, updated kitchen with Corian counters, cabinets with Cherry Wood finish and newer Heating and Air unit. Outside you will find a newly painted exterior, 2 yr new roof and beautiful yards.
$639,980
Stranahan, Clayton - Newer single-family home located near downtown, walking trails and schools. This 3 bedroom 2-½ baths home has laminate flooring, ceiling fans in all the bedrooms, and wood blinds throughout. Beautiful landscaped yards.
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PRICE REDUCED $659,980
Houses or Horses - This secluded rustic Spanish style home on a palatial 1.59 acre lot. This 2 bedroom, 1 bath home with huge loft that spans the upper floor, basement w/2 bedrooms, 2 baths and kitchen set up. You will also find a guest studio/apt., zoned for 3 horses and fruit trees on this property. Just 10 minutes from Bart.
$1,300,000
Sundown Area, Walnut Creek - This 3 bedroom 2 ½ tri level town-home with bonus/office room off garage is spacious with and open and airy floor plan. You will find 2 fireplaces, kitchen with granite counter tops, newer flooring and indoor laundry.
$649,980
Regency Meadows, Clayton - Beautiful single story home on cul-de-sac. Numerous upgrades & indoor laundry. Over 2000 sq. ft. with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 sparkling baths. Gorgeous yard with swimming pool.
$769,980 Eagle Peak, Clayton - Sought after area 5 bedroom, 3 ½ bath home sits on private view lot overlooking the valley and Delta. One bedroom and bath located on the main floor, 3 fireplaces and granite kitchen.
PRICE REDUCED! $1,075,000
July 15, 2005
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page A3
Clayton’s fabulous Fourth
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from page 1 According to breakfast chair Bill Selb, this breakfast was a huge success with close to $4000 raised for local charities. Kiddie Land kept little ones entertained before and after the parade and at 10 a.m. Clayton’s Kelli Nielsen got things going by singing a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Then came the color guard, an honored group of World War II Vets, followed by the Blue Star Moms of Clayton. Dan Ashley slowly read the names of every Clayton soldier and armed forces personnel currently serving our country and after each name was announced, there was applause. And then came the kids, followed by the politicians and the rest of the groups that registered to march. It lasted all but an hour. After the parade,
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many departed for lunch at their favorite local restaurant, others lingered at Kiddie Land, while the rest slowly made their way home to barbecue, swim and watch the fireworks. As Laura Hoffmeister, Assistant to the City Manager explained, there would be no parade without the volunteers. Led by Clayton’s Community Services Commission Debra Meylan, Linda Pinder, Ray Vignola, Barbara Dwyer, Andy Siver, Alden Foster and Casey Cline, volunteers handled everything from parking control and registration to manning game booths, set up and clean up. While volunteers provided the manpower, explains Hoffmeister, sponsors gave financial backing. They included Albert Seeno Co, Clayton Valley Medical Group, Christina P. Mason, Linda Pinder, Pleasant Hill Bayshore Disposal, Valley Cleaners and
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Yardbirds. “Please help ensure this 29year-old Norman Rockwell re, white and blue tradition continues,” says Hoffmeister. She urges residents who want to help out to call the city at 6737300 or send an email to cityinfo@ci.clayton.ca.us. Pictured from top left: 1. E Clampus Vitus Precision Drill Team, 2. Kimberly Easley on Casey, 3. ABC Channel 7 Anchor and Parade Emcee Dan Ashley, 4. Shawn Robinson family, 5. New Rotary President Warren Taylor (right) clowns around with Clayton resident Joe Benton, 6. Rotary breakfast drew over 1000 hungry diners, 7. Clayton Garden Club float, 8. Clayton Community Library float, 9. Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm float, 10. A Clayton Crossroads Church cutie, 11. Rotary breakfast volunteers Don and Bea Ouimet, 12. Breakfast cook Fred Nelson and Chair Bill Selb, 13. Mayor Gregg Manning and daughter Rachele, 14. Clayton Canyon Pony Club rider, 15. Clayton Pioneer’s Garden Girl Nicole Hackett and family, 16. The Red Hat Ladies.
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Offered for $599,950
Page A4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 15, 2005
Around Town Wenslawskis announce son’s engagement
Carrie Pettigrew will marry David Wenslawski on September 24. Carrie and David work for the City of Benicia. Carrie is
a Management Assistant and David is a Water Quality Technician. Carrie is the daughter of Gary Susan Pettigrew of Benicia. She graduated from Benicia High School in 1995, then attended Sonoma State University where she graduated in 1999. David is the son of Frank and Susan Wenslawski of Clayton. He graduated from the American International School of Vienna in 1989 and from Sonoma State University in 1994. The couple will marry at the North Hills Church in Vallejo and honeymoon in Maui.
Council thanks Linda Pinder
Mayor Gregg Manning presented Linda Pinder with a Certificate of Recognition for her two years of service on the Community Services Commission at the July 5 City Council meeting. The Community Services Commission is an advisory body to the City Council and is responsible for recommending
user fees and policies for use of city facilities and sponsors community activities. Pinder served from July 2003 through June 2005. City Manager Gary Napper personally thanked Pinder for her service noting that she donated her monthly stipend back to the City each payday. Pinder also serves on the K9 Coalition and the Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee. The Council also recognized Ray Vignola for his service on the Commission from July 2001 through June 2005. Vignola did not attend the meeting.
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Clayton resident Collette Carroll recently visited her family down under in Australia, taking an issue of the Pioneer along for the ride. During her two week stay, Collette visited her sisters and parents and her 100-year-old grandfather, who affectionately remembered her as his “bit of crumpet.” Pictured are the four generations with Collette in the center holding the Clayton Pioneer.
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July 1, 2005
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Obituary
Constance “Connie” May Rehr
CONSTANCE MAY REHR January 29, 1918July 9, 2005
Constance “Connie” May Rehr, 87, of Clayton, passed away Saturday, July 9, 2005 She was born January 29, 1918 in Wessington Springs, South Dakota to Carl and May (Kntson) Gall. She was a graduate of Iowa Morningside College in Sioux City and later earned her Masters of Library Science from the University of Illinois. Connie married Henry William Rehr on July 29, 1950. The couple celebrated nearly 55 years of marriage. Connie was a community leader and is the Curator Emeritus of the Clayton Museum . She was a member and
past president of the Upper Clayton Valley Corporation, Mt Diablo Elementary School Parents Club, Clayton Historical Society, chapter OE of P.E.O. Sisterhood, Mt. Diablo P.E.O. Reciprocity Bureau, and Ygnacio Valley Republican Women’s Federated. She was also a member of the Contra Costa County Historical Society, the Clayton Branch of the American Association of University Women, the Clayton Women’s Club, the Clayton
TAMARA
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Planning Commission, and several Scholarship Committees. She was given the Soroptomist Woman of the Year Award. Connie is survived by her loving husband Henry Rehr and her sister, Marjorie Middleton. She was preceded in death by her son, Henry Rehr, Jr. Funeral services were held last Wednesday. Memorials may be made to the Clayton Museum, P.O. Box 94 , Clayton , CA 94517 or to the charity of your choice.
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 R OBERT S TEINER , Co-Publishers
TAMARA S TEINER , Editor J ILL B EDECARRÉ , Assistant Editor and Display Advertising J IM Z EWAN , Sports P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Assoc.
Classified FOR RENT Office space, about 300 sq. ft. Other half of office has a tenant who is out of the state half the month. DSL available. 685-4523. FOR SALE Steinway Grand Piano. Signed by John H. Steinway. Give yourself or your child a fine Instrument that will last a lifetime. Excellent Condition. $39,900. Located in Clayton. Call 925-524-0719. Email: Steinway B (6’8”) Grand Piano claridgem1@aol.com Sofa, 84,” Ethan Allen 3 cushion with checkered pattern of blended navy and beige. Like new. $450 or best offer. In Clayton. 673-7220.
and evening banquet servers (2), Full time banquet supervisor. Flexible hours and golf privileges. Fax resume to (925) 672-0148, or e-mail gm@oakhurstcc.com; or apply in person at 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. SERVICES Perennial Garden Design by Nicole Hackett AKA The Garden Girl. Personal consultations regarding plant choices, placement, identification, fertilizing and maintenance. Spring is just around the corner. Call or email for information and pricing. 925673-1746 (leave message) GardenGirl94517@aol.com
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C o m m u n i ty Connections
FOUND Motorcycle helmet and a set of keys on June 26 at about 6:30 a.m. at the intersection of Clayton Rd and Marsh Creek Rd. Please call 925-673-0317.
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Page A5
PIONEER INFO
Directory of Advertisers
HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517 or call the office with your credit card information. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance.
Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 A Clayton Window Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-1049 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 Alise Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 All Loving Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0752 American Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .939-4800 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6622 Benton, Mureleen - American Express . . . . . . . .685-4523 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Café Sante . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-3320 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Clarissa Bridal Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .930-0214 Clark Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5890 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4664 Clayton Home Inspection Services . . . . . . . . . . .672-9405 Clayton Mind & Body Connections . . . . . . . . . . .673-0686 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clip n' Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-9355 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Concord Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9530 Crocker Insurance Agency - Sam Totah . . . . . . .941-1536 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Dryclean USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5653 Eagles Peak Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-0435 Elysium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1333 Englund's Tea Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8327 ESI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .969-1477 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Coldwell Banker Real Estate . . .672-8787 Gregory, Cynthia - Permanent Solution . . . . . . . .286-5162 Help You Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 Hot Basil Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288-0000 Hudak, Jim - Pianist and Composer . . . . . . . . . .673-7293 Instant Imprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9815 Integrity Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-493-5437x402 Ken Ewing Painting and Decorating . . . . . . . . . .586-1882 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Landman Consulting Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8817 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .939-7920 Law Office of Richard Littorno . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Lerner Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-1130 Lint Extractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .827-1739 Mary's Pizza Shack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .938-4800 Maverick's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-5600 Maximum Carpet Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-3800 Mazzei Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5600 Merrigan, Deanna - Mt. Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . .890-0430 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 Morningside Horse Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3632 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . .280-8563 Mountain Mike's Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4965 Neptune Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-5100 Northgate Gardening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-8711 Northshore Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .439-3333 Oakhurst County Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Pasos de Mt. Diablo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4467 Pasta Primavera Café & Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-5300 Pavilion Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6868 Petar Guest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2841 Pro-Tech Heating and Air Conditioning . . . . . . . .673-3776 R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0207 Residential Pacific Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . .800-963-1082 Robin's Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Sellers, Nicole - Diablo Funding . . . . . . . .227-0100 x 128 Skip's Happy Hammer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9433 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 St. John's Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8855 Stone Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-2094 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 The James Gang . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .974-7678 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . .686-4747 Tullis, Shanan - Mt. Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .286-1268 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Intero Real Estate Services .672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Velocity Sports Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .363-0066 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Walcutt, Bill - Prudential Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .437-5535 We The People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246-0370 Williams, Mike - Rath Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-5363 Wine Thieves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4003 Zandonella's Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-1700
LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com
Advertise in the Pioneer It works. Call today to place your ad in the next issue. 672-0500
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Fire, from page A1 Ehnat from her office at the Sunshine Station. “Maybe not huge in terms of wildland fires, but a big fire to happen right in our backyard.” Resources were quickly mustered along the fire line. Contra Costa Consolidated, East Contra Costa Fire and CDF all responded. According to Contra Costa Consolidated Fire Captain Dave George, at one point, there were 270 firefighters on the fire or surrounding it. George calls the Bragdon Way blaze a superfire. “These are larger than normal fires,” he explained. “(A superfire) has a tendency to be in very steep terrain and creates its own winds, jumping over the ridge tops with embers. It behaves in strange ways— erratic and aggressive. It has a mind of its own.” Fire season historically begins in June and extends through the early fall, with September and October considered the highest risk months. This year, because of heavy late rains, the “flash fuel,” – tall, dry grasses, which ignite quickly and burn hot — is especially thick and high, explained Ehnat. As the underbrush and trees dry out with the hotter weather, this year’s fire season is expected to be worse than usual. “This week alone, we’ve already seen about 1200 acres burned up right in our own battalion,” said Ehnat. The
CBCA,
from page A1 for maintenance of the longawaited “Grove Park.” The city recently found the money to build the park through Redevelopment Agency funds, bond proceeds, developer fees and state paybacks. City officials have indicated that they will not build the park until they are assured that it will be maintained. According to CBCA President John Rubiales, the community organization discussed the viability of a vote following a presentation to the group by the Blue Ribbon Committee in its current outreach campaign. “We are a non-political group,” Rubiales said. “But we discussed the tax and felt it was something that affected everyone and could be a benefit to everyone in the community,” he added. “Nobody likes taxes. But we realized that we have to maintain our community.” Of the members who attended the June 30 meeting, about 75 percent voted in favor of supporting the assessment tax, Rubiales noted.
lent job in clearing vegetation around their properties, which made it possible for CDF to save their homes, Bragdon Way fire claimed Ehnat explained. over 500 acres. July 4 saw 250 The CDF Sunshine acres go up in smoke in two Station is prepared for a bad Antioch fires, one in the Deer fire season. The two-engine station is staffed around the clock with a minimum crew of six. “We won’t let people go off, if we don’t have replacements,” said E h n a t . “ To m o r r o w may be my day off, but if I don’t’ have someone coming in to relieve me, I don’t go.” Up until last year, regul a t i o n s required clearing a 30-foot swath around the residence. In September 2004, howevFirefighter Eric Heckley washes the miles of hoses er, that used in the Bragdon Way fire. requirement was increased to 100 feet (or to the properValley Road area near Empire ty line, whichever is greater) Mine Road and another at for residents in wildland Empire Mine Road near the areas, which includes the Antioch city limits. A fire in Morgan Territory and Marsh the windmill area off Vasco Creek areas. Road charred another 200 For more information on acres. fire prevention regulations Ehnat is quick, however, and a checklist for protecting to credit area residents with your home from wild fires, good fire prevention efforts. see the California “They make our job easier.” Department of Forestry Web Residents near the Bragdon site at www.fire.ca.gov. Way fire had done an excel-
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Mayor, from page A1 about infringing on first amendment or other constitutional rights but I believe times are changing and there are evil people in this world who are not interested in our well being but only their own. We need to know who they are and why they are here. Other than requiring solicitors and peddlers to have a business license, which is a generalpurpose tax, and not a regulatory license, the Municipal Code does not regulate door-to-door solicitors. Clayton is a maturing community and its current and expanding socioeconomic demographics could be attractive to door to door solicitors and peddlers. I also believe that the trend toward more stringent employment requirements may lead persons convicted of serious crimes, crimes involving moral turpitude and those required to register as serious or high-risk sex offenders to become self-employed in the sales and service order fields. I believe we need an ordinance which would make it unlawful for any person eighteen years of age or older to engage in peddling or solicitation within the city, without first obtaining a Solicitor’s Permit issued by the Police Chief. There would be exceptions such as sale, delivery or collections for newspapers and magazines, the sale of goods for non-commercial purposes by persons under eighteen and solicitation for political purposes. Such an ordinance would be beneficial in a number of ways. It would allow law enforcement officers to order door-to-door solicitors without a permit to immediately stop. It would allow the Police Department to review an applicant’s criminal record. Licensed peddlers would have something to show residents when asked if they were regis-
write and let me know. I believe it comes down to remembering what we have to lose.
tered with the city. It would make it unlawful for licensed or unlicensed peddlers or solicitors to enter any residential property posted with signage indicating “No Peddlers” or “No Solicitors.” The costs of investigating and issuing the permits would be fully paid out of permit fees. A permit requirement would also give the city and its residents better control of who is wandering the streets in our neighborhoods. While most of the people who sell door to door are good people, there are those who may be checking out the area, looking for interesting mail, or up to no good. We need to achieve greater control of our environment through such ordnance. If I am wrong in my thinking please
BILL WALKER DIES The Clayton community received some sad news the Fourth of July weekend. The city’s first Treasurer, William (Bill) Walker, who served Clayton from its inception in 1964 until 1978 when he retired, died on June 29 at 93. Bill was instrumental in making Clayton the city it is today. Few of Clayton’s current citizens know the handful of dedicated individuals who believed early on that Clayton needed to keep its own identity and not be consumed by Concord. Their faith in the political process helped it succeed and we are the heirs of their vision. We will remember Bill and the impact he had on our lives.
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July 15, 2005
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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When Clayton residents Diana and Ray Bauer retired from their respective medical professions about five years ago, they knew they wanted to travel. But what they didn’t know is where their travels would take them, physically and emotionally. It was through the Concord United Methodist Church in Concord that they soon found out. Ray, an OB/GYN surgeon in Antioch for over 30 years, and Diana, a retired nurse, were settling down nicely to retired life, fixing things around the house, spending time with their children and grandchildren and satisfying Ray’s passion for duplicate bridge. Last year, the Bauers heard about a mission trip to Guatemala from a friend and decided to give it a try. Diana wrote in a report to the church
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about her mission work: “warning: this work is potentially habit-forming.” The Bauers are definitely hooked on this type of traveling. They spent two weeks in Guatemala serving the Mayan poor; Ray working as primary care physician and Diana helping out in the pharmacy. They came away from that experience loving the intimate contact they had with the people of Guatemala and grateful that they had an opportunity to share their medical expertise with those less fortunate. “What a wonderful way to get to know a country,” says Diana. After their short mission to Guatemala, the Bauers once again embarked on another mission, this time to the Democratic Republic of Congo in Africa. Responding to a request for more surgical skills from Dr. Peniel Kasongo
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who operates a 60-bed hospital in Kolwezi, Ray and Diana
Bauer operates on a patient with Dr. Baboo, Kasongo’s assistant, in a 60 bed hospital in the Congo.
were part of a team of 17 that recently traveled to the Congo. Dr. Kasongo was particularly interested in learning how to perform a hernia operation. “I knew the anatomy, and I viewed some procedures at Sutter Delta Hospital in Antioch,”Ray said. Ray is a veteran surgeon and quick learner. At the hospital in Kolwezi Ray taught Dr. Kasongo how to repair hernias using mesh and Diana thinks that is the first time this type of surgery was ever performed there. In just two weeks at Kolwezi, Ray and another American surgeon Dr. Lee Jeffrey of Colorado performed 59 operations with two translators. Services which normally cost about $150 per
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the hospital with a staff of 26 and a monthly operating budget of about $6,000. “They worked until close to midnight and then were back at it in the morning,” Diana said. While Ray worked at the hospital, Diana was situated at a missionary post in Mulungwishi where she spent time giving immunizations at the clinic and in remote villages. She talks about the widespread infertility and sexually transmitted diseases. One of the saddest things she witnessed was a young woman who had a daughter 7, a oneyear old toddler, a two-month old baby and she was pregnant. The two-month old was about the same weight as the one-year-old . “When children are born too close together, the older baby who is no longer breast-fed may weigh less at one year than it did at birth,” Diana explained. “The people were very appreciative and understood that you really cared. They are happy with so little because they have nothing,” she added. And that’s what drives Ray and Diana forward as they think about and plan their next mission. It’s something that Ray hopes other people will consider. “You don’t have to have medical experience and you don’t have to belong to a church,” he said. “When you go, you walk away with a positive experience. Politics is not discussed. You help to give the people hope and plant a seed that will perhaps make some changes in their government,” Ray explained. “I will always remember the people from Guatemela and the Congo,” says Diana.
Mike Williams
Your local Realtor Serving Clayton has been a family tradition for more than 33 years!
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 15, 2005
Consider a condo before you buy Not too many years ago, buying a condo was considered a compromise move. Condos are more affordable, particularly for first-time buyers who have a tough time breaking into the housing market. Until recently the cheap entry fee entitled you to apartment-style living, no yard to call your own and lackluster appreciation - not an attractive package to most home buyers. This may be changing. These days sometime condo appreciation is outpacing sing family home prices. Statistically, condos are looking like a better investment in some areas and for some home buyers. But, not all condos appreciate at the same rate. To ensure that you make a good investment, consider the following before you buy. Look for a condo that’s in a development that has a high ratio of owner-occupants to renters. Some lenders won’t lend on condos that have a high rate of absentee ownership. Also, owner occupants tend to be
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ESTATE
more concerned about keeping things going well in the development. When you purchase a condo or townhouse, you obtain exclusive ownership rights to the interior space of your particular unit. But, you also own common areas-grounds, fences, shared walls and facilities-with the other homeowners. You automatically become a part of a homeowner’s association to which you pay dues. The dues cover the cost of maintaining and insuring the common areas. Precisely what the homeowner’s dues cover will vary
from one complex to the next, so find out exactly what’s covered before you buy. The homeowner’s dues may help fund a reserve account to cover major expenses, like refurbishing common areas or replacing an elevator. Make sure to check a current financial statement for the association. If the reserve account isn’t flush enough to cover unanticipated expenses, the individual homeowner’s could be accessed an additional amount to cover the expense. This will add to your cost of ownership. Find out if the dues have increased over time and by how much. Also, find out if additional assessments have been levied against the homeowner’s in the past. Be aware that with new projects, the dues may be subject to change in the future. Condos are governed by CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions), which restrict your ownership rights. For instance, the CC&Rs might include remodeling restrictions. If you want to buy the condo
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only if you can modify it in a way that’s not permitted, you should consider buying elsewhere. Some condos prohibit pets. And some have parking, storage and renting restrictions. Read and understand the CC&Rs and any other pertinent governing documents before you complete a purchase. Some CC&Rs are hard to read. It’s usually best to avoid buying into a condo complex where the homeowner’s association is involved in litigation. To find out if there are any other association issues that you might want to avoid, read copies of the minutes from recent homeowner’s association meetings. One of the best ways to get the straight scoop on a condo project is to talk with some of the current residents. Find out what they like and what they don’t like about living there before you decide to buy.
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My dad gets so angry for no reason Some common sense advice for the lovelorn and troubled Dear Judith, I am 15 years old and I am having a problem with my dad. He gets angry for no reason, and yells at my sister and brother and I a lot. I don’t think we do anything wrong, but he yells at us all the time. He didn’t used to be like this. He used to be fun all the time. It gets to be kind of a drag when he gets into one of his bad moods. I don’t know what to do. Mixed Up Dear Mixed Up I feel for you. Nothing is worse than a parent who is having a rough
day, and seems to be taking it out on you. Unfortunately, life is stressful for parents; especially parents with teenagers. Just know that a parent isn’t meaning to hurt you, and there are probably many things that went wrong before he took out his frustration on you and your siblings. Sometimes just saying you’re sorry will make your dad realize his outburst is hurting you, too. Dear Judith: My 27-year daughter is pregnant with her second child. She is a bundle of hormones, it seems, and takes offense at whatever I say to her. I am concerned that she seems to be neglecting the basic daily hygiene of her 3-year-old son. Whenever I bring things to her attention, she yells at me and is
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to be is a loving grandmother. But you don’t need to take her disrespectful attitude. Let her know in a quiet way that what she says hurts you and you don’t deserve it. Hopefully once baby No. 2 comes along, her hormones will settle down, and she’ll learn to appreciate how wonderful you are.
JUDITH HALL
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MY OPINION
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Hot rod heroes at Derby Day Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby is Saturday September 3 Sunday, Sunday, Sunday - the announcer bellows as the big race is coming to town. See Nitro burning funny cars and ground-pounding action. One doesn’t usually think of Soap Box Derby cars as “ground-pounding” and indeed they’re not meant to be. But this year, participants and spectators will be treated to two local Hot Rod heroes as they face off
on the city streets with their very own Nitro burning funny car and Top Fuel Dragster competing for “Coolest Car” honors at the Second Annual Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby, Saturday, Sept. 3. Wayne Torkelson, Jr. of Concord, racer and proprietor of Stock-to-Performance Automotive Shop is the top winning Nitro Coupe racer and currently stands first in the nation in points. His classic 1953 Corvette radical doorslammer runs 6.25 seconds in the quarter mile reaching speeds up to 250 mph. Jim Lundsford from Antioch is
a 30-year racing veteran and owner of Delta Transmission. He currently campaigns the Baca Motorsports Alcohol Dragster, a 5.20 second quarter mile dragster at 275 mph. These are the same cars you see Saturday morning on ESPN! Jim will be on hand with his NHRA Super Comp dragster for youngsters to dream about and perhaps inspire. Come visit with these very personable heroes on Derby Day. Take pictures with them and their race cars and walk away with a signed collectors “pitt” card.
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Women and men-Viv’ Le Difference Patty Flannery
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PART 1 OF 2 Welcome to the fourth article in the Velocity Sports Performance series dispelling fitness myths and misunderstandings. In our last three articles, we have presented general ideas on fitness goals and how to choose appropriate tools to achieve them, cleared up fact from fallacy on youth strength development, and addressed the advantages and disadvantages of using free weights and/or machines. Today, I would like to discuss some of the objections I regularly encounter when I coach female athletes. In a natural state, men have more testosterone and other androgens than women. This is no surprise to most people, but has important implications. Basically, men tend to grow larger than women. Even with this particular difference in biochemistry, however, many men have trouble acquiring the size and strength they want. So where did women get the idea that lifting weights would make them look like a bodybuilder? I have had hundreds of female clients, and none of them – let me repeat, NONE – have the chemical composition to (naturally) get very big. I’m sure many women have seen female bodybuilders, wrestlers, etc., in magazines and on television and think, “I don’t want to look like that.” Let me set the record straight; unless you have a rare genetic predisposition most athletes would prize, or are doing something harmful to your body’s chemistry, a woman will not get big and bulky. The funny thing is, even
NEIL SIMS
SHAPE UP with this oft-expressed desire to avoid being large, many women, most likely due to poor information, lift weights in precisely the way that will maximize muscular size – medium weight for high numbers of repetitions (10 reps and above). By the time they are out of high school, most people with any interest in fitness have heard this old classic; “Heavy weights for low reps will make you big, lower weight for higher reps will make you cut,” or “sculpted” or “toned” or whatever other ridiculous catch word is popular in fitness magazines at that time. The above proverb is bunk, and worse, it is in some ways diametrically opposed to actual evidence. What will make a muscle gain size? The answer is still being debated. The general understanding is that any form of resistance training will generate some growth in the targeted muscle fibers. If one chooses to lift heavy weight for low repetitions, there will usually not be enough stimuli to make a large percentage of muscle fibers grow. Instead, this approach will produce pure strength, mostly from changes in how the nervous system uses the muscle you already have. That’s why Olympic weightlifters and pro-
fessional power lifters can keep setting records while remaining at the same weight class. Bodybuilders, on the other hand, typically use high reps with medium weight to produce the mass they need for competition. Higher rep ranges are thought to stimulate growth not only in the muscle cells (fibers) but in the components surrounding the cells as well. Bodybuilding does not tax the nervous system in the same way, so pound for pound a bodybuilder will often be noticeably bigger, but about half as strong as a power lifter or weightlifter.
“Unless you have a rare genetic predisposition most athletes would prize, or are doing something harmful to your body’s chemistry, a woman will not get big and bulky.”
Neil Sims, Performance Coach I hear some of you saying, “But Neil, I’ve been doing 12 to 15, sometimes more, repetitions for years and never gotten big.” In some ways, this goes back to my point about hormonal differences. But there’s something else I’ve seen that may also be the culprit. Regularly, when I coach young athletes and adults (especially women) interested in general fitness, what I find is they don’t use enough weight to produce any significant adaptive response at all. While they might feel something while doing the exercise, typically this is only the sensation of a
“presser response” — a muscle contracting long enough to slow (or sometimes stop) blood flow to the working area. Without oxygen, the muscle stops working, the weight is dropped, and normal blood flow returns. But a presser response does not by itself stimulate any positive change in the system during recovery, nor does being sore the day after exercise. Properly chosen exercises, weight and repetition ranges, however, do stimulate positive changes. While exercise can change the overall condition of the muscles, no form of exercise will give someone defined muscles. Only proper nutrition will do that. Washboard abs, for instance, are not a product of any form of workout except perhaps “pushaways” – knowing when to “push away” from a table of food. Admittedly, it’s a bit more complicated than that, but you get the idea. Many highlevel bodybuilders do not perform specific exercise for their abs; they get their look from the contribution the abs give to stabilizing the body during other exercises, and, more importantly, a calorie restricted, pre-competition diet. Of course, this approach can’t be used with performance athletes, or they risk diminished performance and injury due to a weak core. In Part 2, I’ll discuss my answer to requests by women for long lean muscles.
Neil Sims is a performance coach at Velocity Sports. He has more than ten years experience training athletes from beginner to Olympic level. Neil has a Masters of Science degree in Physiology. You can contact him at 925-363-0066.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 15, 2005
College bound and time to pick a new computer Yipes! College bound students, computers and decisions. If you have a college bound student in your family, now’s the time to make those computer-buying decisions. Holy bytes Batman! Yes, Robin, it’s that time again. It’s time to decide what’s needed vs. what’s wanted and what’s affordable in a computer for that college bound student. Deciding which computer to buy could start with assessing the general needs of your student. Consider too his or her college level such as freshman, sophomore, etc. Your buying decision will encompass laptop computer vs. desktop, price vs. performance, and features vs. standardization. One should realize a laptop is more delicate and represents a temporary non-standardized solution. Laptops are not designed to get a four-year stu-
dent from freshman through graduation; whereas a desktop is a more durable computer, standardized for upgrades and repairs making it a better choice for a four-year college program. The needs of the student will help determine which computer fits best. Prioritize your concepts to maximize your decision. Weigh the pros and cons of each computer before you decide to buy. On the pro side of a laptop is its portability and easy of use. The cons are price, lack of durability and lack of upgradeability. (Laptops tend to grow legs and walk off your desk-get stolen- more frequently.) You should understand a laptop will last about two years. They don’t take punishment well. Its limited lifetime can be a big detraction from its value, whereas its portability can be a giant plus. For example, if the
student needs to take a massive amount of notes, and laptops are permitted in the class, this can be a benefit outweighing all
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK others. If however, note taking isn’t a primary need, a desktop may be a better alternative. My advice; buy an inexpensive laptop for the first two years and a better one in the junior or senior years.
Desktop computers are more durable, easier to secure, and can be repaired or upgraded as needs change. It’s entirely possible to buy a desktop and expect it to make it through a four-year college program. Whatever your decision, remember college years one and two are nearly the same for each student. Course requirements usually include English, History and beginner 101 classes. You won’t need massive power or dozens of features. Wait until the student begins upper level classes before deciding on better or more expensive features. For example, an entry-level laptop for a freshman should be priced under $1000. (We sell a nice entry level one for $699.95) Spending more won’t get you more useful features, make the student smarter or give them any special intellectu-
al advantage. Three important notes: Get wireless networking because most campuses have “hot spots” that allow students to connect to the Internet or the college mainframe used for research and study. Be sure the computer you choose has Windows XP with Service Pac 2 (SP/2) as an operating system. Some Universities require Windows XP Professional and you should check before you buy. Most importantly, get a security bundle with antivirus and intrusion protection. The excuse “the dog ate my homework” becomes “my hard drive
In Part One I talked about the symptoms and causes of asthma. In this article I’ll discuss the methods of treating asthma. A combination of avoiding the triggers and following appropriate medical treatment, along with home monitoring, are key elements in preventing dangerous asthma attacks and frequent ER visits. Good communication between parents and young ones as well as between family and school is important. The two approaches in treatment that work are treating symptoms and controlling the disease. Two categories of drugs are used. One is beta adrenergic agonists, which helps to open airways. This is usually a short-acting inhaler, such as Albuterol, to be used as an emergency “rescue inhaler The other group of drugs is used to control long-term inflammation and prevent frequent outbreaks of asthma symptoms. A mainstay therapy for adults and children over 5 and, more recently, also for infants who had previously three or more episodes of wheezing within the last year, is inhaled corticosteroids. They have potent anti-inflammatory effects without major adverse reactions. They are also safely used during pregnancy. For long-term control of symptoms and well being of patient, inhaled corticosteroids are prescribed (Azmacort, Flovent QVAR, and Pulmicort). They are well tolerated, and the only precaution given is to rinse the mouth after inhalation to prevent possible chances of oral thrush (oral yeast overgrowth). In children there
have been some questions in regard to growth suppression. However, final research
JANA TOMSKY
YOUR HEALTH shows no influence on final adult height. The benefit to breath is absolutely clear. These inhalers are usually required to use twice daily, even if you have no symptoms. If used as directed, the patient should become asthma-symptom free. If more control is needed, the next step is so call longacting beta 2 agonists, such as Salmeterol (Seravent). It potenciates the benefit of inhaled steroid – each of the medications works differently to reach the goal of opening up airways and keeping them clear. There is a form of inhaler available that combines both drugs in one – Advair Discus. It is very popular due to convenience and good results. This kind of drugs is usually started in “mild persistent asthma” stage. For mild intermittent there is no need for “maintenance” medication and a short-acting inhaler may be used as needed. Although circumstances may change – pollen exposure, illness or other triggers that may worsen the course of asthma – inhaled steroids become very appropriate. If still not completely relieved, the next step is an addition of “Leukotriene – antagonists and Cromolyn.” The Clayton Pioneer’s “Music Notes” columnist
Clayton’s own
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Call Or Write:
Brainstorm Records P.O. Box 488 Clayton, CA 94517 (925) 673-7293
These drugs work on inflammation response, but are not usually sufficient alone. They are prescribed as an “add on” medicine. Some of these are Singulair, Xolair and Intal. From time to time, more serious asthma flare-ups may happen, and this is the time to use oral corticosteroids like Prednisone for a few days in high doses and eventually slowly taper off. The same medication may be use as an injection. In an emergency condition or severe persistent asthma, it is justified to use an “oldfashioned” drug – Theophylline. It is a very effective drug in helping to open up the airways, but its level needs to be monitored due to the possible severe side effects (heart rate increase and arrhythmias and nervousness) and multiple drug-todrug interactions. Newer forms of sustained release may be a safer alternative. ER physicians under controlled circumstances may use more drug alternatives. The research is also bringing some new hope for asthma sufferers – genetically developed agents such as monoclonal antibodies designed to target very specific factors in patients with positive allergy skin tests. Nevertheless, these agents are in addition to standard therapy and are not a replacement. A drawback of these is incredible cost. In conclusion, several measures may be helpful in controlling asthma symptoms. These are in compliance with medications prescribed. Good communication with your doctor, a healthy lifestyle that includes avoiding smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke, especially in kids and teens, routine relaxation and exercise habits and time outside all help control asthma
Will Claney is the owner and operator of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-672-9989.
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Guidelines for treating asthma Part 2 of 2
crashed” and that’s not “A” work. In conclusion, take a hard look at what you need in a computer and forget about other considerations. The old saw, “buy more than you need” isn’t true for the college bound student. Their requirements and needs will change rapidly as they blossom into adulthood and become that academic genius you know they really are.
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symptoms. Healthy eating habits and preventing obesity are also keys, as is avoidance of environment triggers such as dust and chemicals. Treat seasonal allergies (allergic rhinitis) and other infections. Preventing respiratory infection – namely influenza – may be accomplished by getting an annual flu shot – all patients with asthma are eligible unless contraindicated.
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Clayton Canyon Pony Club News 6115 Morgan Territory Road
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Every other meeting, Sue Thompson teaches horse to equine hospitals and is pursuing a degree in care, maintenance and management. A former Pony History at UC Berkeley. Club member, she was elected Stable Manager for "Pony Club is a great chance for competition at her winning team at the Combined Training competition her first year. Sue's dismounted educa- Regional and National levels without the resources needed to actually ride at that level. I really hope to be tion team represented Northern CA and HI at the able to get these kids to Nationals. When you're a kid Pony Club Nationals at the Kentucky Horse Park in riding on Mt. Diablo, and you get to walk the crossLexington, home of the Rolex Cup. Sue has country course of the Rolex Cup… wow!" - Sue managed "A" circuit hunter/jumper barns and a Call for CCPC information: 672-3132 dressage barn for an Olympic team member. Now she provides scheduled and Come and have your kids 672-3132 - PONY CLUB emergency horse transport get to know Sue!
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July 15, 2005
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page A11
Youth Perspective Book Review
Your guide to The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy NIKO DEMORDAUNT Special to the Pioneer
If you haven’t been in a bookstore lately, you might think
that “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is nothing more than the latest science fiction movie. In fact, the guide is actu-
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ally a series of five books by Douglas Adams (he calls the collection a “trilogy”). They are “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”; “The Restaurant at the End of the Universe”; “Life, the Universe and Everything”; “So Long, and Thanks for all the Fish” and “Mostly Harmless.” Also recommended, and somewhat related, is his autobiography, of sorts, “The Salmon of Doubt.” “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is about a regular man, Arthur Dent, who is swept off Earth just before it is demolished by aliens to make room for a hyperspatial express route. Coincidentally, on that same day, his own home was to be destroyed to make room for a freeway. He is saved by his friend, Ford Prefect, an undercover alien stuck on Earth. Together they meet both old and new friends and explore the immense galaxy, humor trailing close behind. As is so often the case, the book is better than the movie. The books contain concepts and dialog that a movie could never
hope to accommodate. Why? Adams’ writing incorporates a strange randomness that makes it almost abstract. At the time of the first book’s release, Adams’ writing style must have seemed experimental, or downright bizarre. If you asked someone familiar with the books what they gained from reading them, unless they had read between the lines, they might answer “nothing, except for a great experience.” A closer reading offers insight into core questions of our own existence — life beyond our earth. In the books, Adams humbles human life into almost nothing. In the first book of the “trilogy” the incognito alien character Ford Prefect is a reporter for an intergalactic book called “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” His job is to provide information on planets. Some planets have pages of information written about them. However, the entry concerning Earth is limited to two words: “Mostly harmless.” This trilogy makes a state-
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ROTARY ECONOMIC CONFERENCE
An economic conference bringing together high profile business, financial and governmental leaders to discuss issues involving the local and national economy is set for Friday, July 29 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Hilton Hotel in Concord. Sponsored by the Clayton Valley /Concord Sunrise Rotary Club, the conference features such speakers as Joseph Canciamilla, 11th district assemblyman, Eugene McQuade, president of Freddie Mac, Dr. Steven Wood of University of California, Berkeley and a panel discussion with Joseph Perkins, Northern California Home Builders Association, James Forsberg, director of planning and development for Concord, Greg Feere, Contra Costa building and construction trades council and Steve Andrews president of Bank of America. The conference will cover issues such as the development of the Concord Naval Weapons Station, the real estate bubble,
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MATT GALVIN MEMORIAL RANCH DAY
The annual Matt Galvin Memorial Ranch Day is slated for Saturday, Aug. 6 starting at 5 p.m. at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds in Antioch. This year’s Ranch Day includes a dinner dance catered by Englund’s and featuring the band, Crossman Connection. Dancing begins at 7 p.m. The raffle includes a saddle currently on display at Winner’s Circle Western Wear. Proceeds from the raffle and event go toward the Matt Galvin Memorial Scholarship Fund which awards a scholarship each year to a Clayton Valley High School senior pursuing a career in mechanics. Matt Galvin was a 1993 graduate of CVHS and a graduate of UTI in Phoenix, Arizona. He had started his own business East County Truck and Equipment Repair when he was killed in an automobile accident on Apr. 4, 1999 on Morgan Territory Road. Matt was 24 when he died. Matt’s family and now retired CVHS auto shop teacher Bob Harvey started the scholarship fund to honor Matt’s achievement in the mechanics field. For more information on Matt Galvin Ranch Day call (925) 672-4907 or (925) 4084940. Tickets for the event are for sale at Winner’s Circle in Antioch and Clayton, the Clayton Club, Rodie’s Feed Store, Rafter D Ranch in Knightsen and County Quarry in Martinez.
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Clayton office:
Niko DeMordaunt is a student at Clayton Valley High School. Look for future contributions from him as he reviews books and movies from a teen’s point of view.
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meaning of life, the universe, and everything for that matter, is (drum roll……..) 42. Adams led a very interesting and exciting life. He was an eccentric man who traveled the world and had many adventures. Once he traveled across Africa — in a giant rhino costume — all the way to the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. What he loved most was scuba diving off the coast of Australia. Once, during a dive, he announced his intent to hitch a ride on the back of a manta ray, for which he received a severe reprimand from his dive guide. Sadly, he hitchhiked off this small planet in 2001, but at least he left us with his grand trilogy.
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ment about how, notwithstanding humans’ weapons and technology, we may actually be insignificant in the larger scheme of things. Our planet might be one of the least developed. One day, out of the blue, a force from without could destroy us before we even realized what was happening. We may think that we are at the top of the heap, but Adams assures us that we’re not. Adams was an incredibly tall man with a strange sense of humor. His bent outlook is reflected throughout the Hitchhiker books. By way of illustration, in “The Salmon of Doubt” he starts off with no less than three introductions – each introducing the next, followed next by an editor’s note, which leads into a prologue. And you’ll be interested to know that in his famous trilogy, he reveals that the answer to the
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 15, 2005
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., JULY 25 FOR THE AUGUST 5 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOING Art at the YMCA @ Clayton Community Gym Art programs at the YMCA - sculpture, painting, drawing for beginners, advanced drawing.and Children's books, writing illustrating and publishing. For information contact instructor Seth Ahonen at 889-1612 or 889-1600. Clayton Community Gym, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. ONGOING THROUGH SUMMER Summer Programs from Civic Arts Education (CAE) in Walnut Creek CAE offers a wide variety of classes for adults and children. Why not sign up for a music, dance, theater, jewelry or art class for you or your children? It's the perfect time to try something new or brush up on old skills. Theme birthday parties available too. Classes are offered in two Walnut Creek locations: the Shadelands campus at 111 N. Wiget Lane (at Ygnacio Valley) and Civic Park at 1313 Civic Drive. For information on any of CAE's classes, call (925) 943-5846 or go on-line to www.arts-ed.org. JUNE 11 - AUGUST 20 Reading Program @ Clayton Community Library Dragons Dreams and Daring Deeds. Read and win exciting prizes. See librarian for details. 673-0659, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. JUNE 27 - JULY 15 Center for Adaptive Learning (CAL) Art Show @ Civic Arts, Shadelands Gallery hours Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. CAL is holding an art show of its clients’ artwork. CAL is a program for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities. CAL client artwork and jewelry on exhibition will be for sale to support the Center’s art department. All donations will go toward the purchase of art supplies and equipment needed to further art instruction at CAL. A closing reception will be held July 14 at 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. All are welcome. For more information contact the Center for Adaptive Learning art department at 827-3863 x27, or swijts@centerforadaptivelearning.org. Civic Arts Shadelands, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. JULY 8 - JULY 30 Act Now! production of Accomplice @ Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts 8:15 p.m. Fri. and Sat., and Sun. at 2:15 p.m. More than a mystery, Accomplice is a rollercoaster ride filled with twists and turns, leaving the audience breathless with laughter one minute and gasping in shock the next. Just when you think you know who did it there is another twist of character or plot that leaves your breathlessly awaiting what will happen next. Tickets are $25 general admission, $22 for seniors, and $12.50 for youth and can be purchased through Center Tickets at 943-SHOW. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. JULY 15 Arts and Crafts @ Diamond Terrace 10-11:30 a.m. Bring a friend and make your own summer tote bag. Supplies provided. Refreshments. Call today to reserve space-524-5100. JULY 16 Caring for the Caregiver @ Sunrise Bistro 11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Support group for women and men who are caregivers of an ill spouse or parent(s). $20 per person includes lunch. For reservations call 925-597-0011. Sunrise Bistro, 1559 Botelho Drive, Walnut Creek. JULY 19, 26, AUG. 2, 9 Story Time Adventures @ Clayton Community Library 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. for children kindergarten through second grade. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. JULY 29 Friday Family Fun Day @ the Antioch Flea Market 12 p.m. - 7 p.m. This is a community event free to the public. We will have lots of vendors, free food, live entertainment, face painting and a whole lot more. Sponsored by Sistaz N Motion. Located at the Contra Costa Fairgrounds at the corner of L street and W 10th Street ONGOING THROUGH NOV. 16 WWII Memorabilia @ Clayton Historical Society Museum The newest special exhibit at the Clayton Historical Society Museum is WWII, Red, White Blue. Artifacts and memorabilia from all walks of life during the war years will be displayed. Local veterans are well represented in this
exhibit which honors the men and women who served and the families who joined in the war effort on the home front. Clayton Historical Society Museum, 6101 Main Street, Clayton. The Museum is open Sunday and Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. AUG. 6 Matt Galvin Memorial Ranch Day @ Contra Costa Fairgrounds, Antioch 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. bar-b-que tritip/chicken dinner, 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. dance, featuring the band Crossman Connection. Adults $20, children 12 and under $10. Purchase tickets at the Winners Circle, Antioch and Clayton, The Clayton Club and Rodies Feed Store, Clayton. Tickets can also be purchased at the fairgrounds. All proceeds benefit the Matt Galvin Scholarship Fund. For questions or donations please call 925-672-4907 or 925-408-4940. AUG. 11, 18 Puppets, Puppets, Puppets @ the Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Session I Aug. 11, make a hand puppet. Session II, Aug. 18, make a marionette. Kindergarten through second grades. Registration required. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. AUG. 16 Spirit of the Rainforest 1 p.m. Wildlife Associates, a non-profit organization known nationally for their exciting and dynamic animal programs. Learn about animals from the rainforest.673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. AUG. 21 Military Appreciation Day @ the Pittsburg Yacht Club 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Local military families are invited to spend the day at the beautiful Pittsburg Yacht Club for lunch and boat rides. Free balloons for the kids. For more information or reservations call Craig at 383-5800 or Don at 672-4709. Pittsburg Yacht Club, 3 Marina Blvd., Pittsburg. SEPT. 3RD Second annual Clayton Community Labor Day Soap Box Derby. Take a thrill ride down Main Street, flying in a home-built soap box car as the City of Clayton and Clayton Community Church celebrates it's 2nd Annual Clayton Community Great Labor Day Soap Box Derby. To sign up, pick up a registration form at the church office or contact Mike Fossan at 672-1646.
SEPT. 13 Art of Retirement Classes @ Loma Vista Adult Center 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. The five-week course costs $16 for people 55+. Topics include how to keep the money you have, activities in retirement, health in retirement, travel, long-term-care insurance, happiness in retirement, volunteering vs. working part-time, and more. Upon completion students should know themselves better in light of their quest for a successful, meaningful retirement. For more information on the class, please call instructor George Fulmore at (925) 686-6916. Loma Vista Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Ave. in Concord. Call (925) 937-1530 for registration information.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS JULY 19, 26, AUG. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Kiwanis Club of Walnut Creek 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Meetings every Tues. All are invited to check us out and be our guest for lunch. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust St., Walnut Creek. for more information call Sam Totah, 941-1536. JULY 20, 27, AUG. 10, 17, 24 Concord Soroptimist Meeting Women at their best working to help other women. Business, professional
people or people interested in providing service to the community are invited to luncheon meetings at Marie Calender’s the second and fourth Wednesday of each month and at The Left Bank the third Wednesday of the month.Call Gloria Utley at 672-0508, email at gloutley@aol.com. or Jo Harlow, 827-9676. for information. JULY 20 Blue Star Mom Meeting 6:30 p.m. Small group Blue Star Mom meetings held the third Wednesday of each month. Blue Star Moms is a support and service group for those serving in all branches of the Armed Forces. 1792 Elmhurst Lane, Concord. Call 676-3654 for information. JULY 21, 28, AUG. 4, 11, 18, 25 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker.www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. JULY 21, 28, AUG. 4, 11, 18, 25 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau 10 a.m.and 5:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. 800/326-8450 x 2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. JULY 26, AUG. 9, 23 Clayton Valley Woman’s Club @ Holy Cross Lutheran Church 9:30 a.m. Regular monthly meets held the second and fourth Tues. of the month. Anyone interested in joining the woman’s club please contact Shirley Boyd, President at 672-1163. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. JULY 28 CBCA (Clayton Business & Community Association) Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, last non-holiday Thursday of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. John Rubiales, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. AUG. 11 Women's Connection Luncheon @ Oakhurst Country Club 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. "Feeling fit, looking fine" is the theme. Deanna Vanderkous, personal trainer and co-owner of Step It Up Studios, shows us how to get in shape and stay fit. Our featured speaker is Lee Jones a businesswoman who served in the military, assigned to a General in Transport Headquarters. She tells us how she learned "It Will All Work Out". Cost is $16.00 inclusive. Please call Rose by August 5 at (925) 798-6778 to make Reservations. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr, Clayton.
BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT JULY 19, 26, AUG. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. JULY 26, AUG. 9, 23 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. JULY 19, AUG. 2, 16 Clayton City Council Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at the following locations: City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, Ohm's Bulletin Board, 1028 Diablo St., Clayton, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton. AUG. 11 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton.
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Church News Tom Allender to speak at St. Bonaventure’s Nationally renowned author of “God Loves an Unmade Bed,” Father Tom Allender, SJ is visiting FR. TOM St. ALLENDER, SJ Bonaventure Church in July. For three consecutive days, he will offer his very unique parish mission, “Life’s Journey: From Anger to Forgiveness.” He will speak about spirituality for the imperfect, help us recognize that God loves us unconditionally, and present his message grounded in every-day life. Monday’s topic: “Not letting our Anger make a bad situation worse.” Tuesday’s: “Tools for letting go of a lifetime anger system” and ending on Wednesday with “Turning the energy of anger from a destructive to a positive force-choosing love as the center.” Don’t miss this opportunity to hear Fr. Allender at St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. On July 25-27, he will speak twice at 9:45 a.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. No admittance fee. Bring a friend. Call the parish at 672-5800 for more information. St. Bonaventure Parish will be holding an all day workshop on social justice on Sept. 10, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The workshop, conducted by Jack Jezreel, the JustFaith Founder, is for anyone interested in social justice. Jack is
a particularly engaging speaker, who will describe Christian social justice teaching in understandable terms and will challenge and inspire you to live according to the Gospel. A $10 donation per person will be requested. St. Bonaventure Parish, 5562 Clayton Rd.; Concord, CA 94521, 925 279-2568 (daytime) dennis.wasco@nextel.com CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH HOT SUMMER NIGHTS are back. Join us every Fri. in July for our Hot Summer Movie Nights in the Clayton Community Church parking lot at 6055 Main St., Clayton. Events begin at 7:30 p.m. Movie starts at 9 p.m. July 15 to be announced; July 22-Tentative Concert and “Finding Neverland;” July 29Rootbeer Floats and “Racing Stripes.” Bring blankets and beach chairs. Donations accepted. We’ve got some great summer camps coming up for kids! Brochures are available at the church office or call 673-9060. July 25-29 (5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.)-basketball camp for grades K-3, cost $65. August 8-12 (8:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.)-basketball camp for 4 -8 graders at Clayton Valley High School. Cost is $75. CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Vacation Bible School is Aug. 1 – 5. The theme is “The Earth, the Sky, the Sea and Me.” Registration is open to those who will be in kindergarten through sixth grade in the fall. Cost is $20 for one child, $5 for additional siblings. We will be explor-
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ing our wonderful world and our place in it, ending with a field trip on Friday to Mitchell Canyon, part of Mt. Diablo State Park. Call 672-4848 or Peggy Lyon, 689-3849 for information. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton.
CONCORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Jesus gave us two commandments: “Love the Lord God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.” “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Concord United Methodist Church’s adaptation of these commands and commission is in our mission statement: “Seeking God, serving the community, and supporting each other”. Concord United Methodist Church wants to be more responsive in order to serve our community better. We are conducting a survey to accomplish these objectives. We appreciate all our neighbors who are willing to answer the questions in the six-question survey. Using the data from the survey we will develop a composite description of the people we want to serve. We can then develop specific strategies that will enable us to serve them better and make ourselves more attractive for them to participate with us. If you are interested in completing a survey, look on our Website at www.concordumc.org. Download the form, complete and email it to concordumc@sbcglobal.net. Or you can print a copy and mail it to Concord UMC, 1645 West Street, Concord, Ca, 94521. CROSSROADS COVENANT CHURCH This month’s free movie night is Sat. July 16 at 6 p.m. The movie is Homeward Bound. Movies are shown on the big screen with a cartoon before the feature. Everyone is welcome. Bring a blanket if you want to sit on the floor, and a snack to share. Crossroads Church Annual summer day camp will be July 18 – 22. Call Alma Rodriguez at 798-5905 for information. ETERNAL LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH Eternal Life Lutheran Church will host a community Bible night at Newhall Community Park in Concord Wed. July 20 from 7 p.m. 8:30 p.m. There will be Bible stories, discussion and activities for all ages. It will be held
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at the small picnic area near the parking lot off of Newhall Parkway on the northeast side of the park. There will be a mini “Safari Adventure” themed program for children as they “Discover Jesus the King.” It will include Bible stories, songs (with a take-home CD), crafts and other fun activities. Refreshments, Bibles, literature and more will also be available. The program is free. A team of four students from Martin Luther College, New Ulm, Minnesota, will assist the congregation with this ministry program. The students are training to be teachers and church workers in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. They are on a summer-long trip throughout the western US and Canada assisting 10 congregations with vacation Bible school and other outreach work and gaining experience for future careers in the teaching ministry. Sun., Eternal Life has Sun. school and Bible study at 10 a.m. The Worship service begins at 11:15 a.m. Eternal Life Lutheran Church, 5554 Clayton Rd., Suite 1B, in Concord. Eternal Life is a member congregation of the WELS. Please call 524-0295, or email to EternalLife@wels.net for more information. “Eternity Briefings,” an online message board and weblog can be viewed at EternalLifeandGoodShepher d.blogspot.com. FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH Welcome to newcomers. Wednesday is family night at First Lutheran. Worship, music, games and a communal meal is all part of the evening’s fun. There are also volleyball, basketball and board games . This is an evening with your family you do not want to miss. The evening starts at 6 p.m. Family night is a wonderful opportunity to renew and refresh the family due to busy schedules! First Lutheran Church, 4000 Concord Blvd., Concord. ST. JOHN’S PARISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH With the hope Saint John¹s will always have a vision greater than ourselves, the Vestry leadership unanimously agreed at it¹s June meeting to endorse the ONE Campaign, and now invite the community to join us. ONE represents the one billion people who would gain relief if the governments of the world forgave the debts of the poorest nations. What’s for supper?” Saint John’s Episcopal Church’s community outreach efforts this summer will include preparing and serving a week’s worth of evening meals for homeless families at a Concord shelter the week of July 18-22. Sign-ups to help with this rewarding experience are now underway and members of the wider community are invited to participate. This is a real opportunity for a family activity that can be fun for kids, while children learn the importance of caring for neighbors in need. For more information how you can participate, contact the church: info@saintjohnsparish.org, or call 6728855.
Send your church news of general interest to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 15, 2005
Dates – timeless and timely treats Perhaps you saw the recent news article about an archeological excavation in the Middle East. Diggers found a date pit about 2000 years old. They planted it and now have a young date palm growing! For perspective, the seed dates back to the time of Christ…it’s nine times older than the Declaration of Independence…and it’s just about as old as some long forgotten leftovers in my freezer. Babylonians may have eaten the fruit as long as 8000 years ago. Dates have been cultivated for more than 5000 years. In Egyptian hieroglyphics, the date palm denotes a year, while a frond represents a month. Egyptians buried dates with King Tut to help sustain him on his journey to the afterlife. Nomadic tribes spread dates across the Sahara where they took hold in the oases that dot
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that desert. From there it was but a short journey to cross into Spain with the Moors. Spanish missionaries then brought the fruit to the New World where it grows in the Caribbean, Brazil, and along the Pacific Coast of the United States. In 1904, the U.S. Department of Agriculture founded the first experimental date station near Mecca, California in the Coachella Valley where the crop now flourishes. This area, from Palm Springs to the Salton Sea, produces on average 35 million pounds of dates annually from
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250,000 trees on 5000 acres and is the heart of date production in the U.S (about 99 percent of
the domestic crop). It’s not surprising that date trees historically have been referred to as the “tree of life.” Among their more than 800 uses buds and fruits are eaten or ground into flour; sap is drunk, fibers are woven into fabric, and seeds used as fodder for donkeys and camels. Dates weigh very little, are easily transported, and keep for years without spoiling. Although there are many varieties of dates, they can be classified into three main categories: soft, hard and semi-dry. Three most popular varieties are Deglet noor (“Date of Light”) that originate in Tunisia and Israel, Halawi from Iraq and Medjul (Morocco) or Medjool (Egypt), which means “Unknown.” Deglet noors are very mild and sweet with translucent flesh. Halawis are soft, sweet, and pale in color. Medjools are deep red in color, have thick crinkly flesh, and a rich mellow flavor. All three varieties should be available from quality grocers or online directly from the producers. Dates contain protein, Vitamin A and some B vitamins, high fiber and more potassium than bananas. Unusual for a fruit, they contain no Vitamin C. Dates go well with many
other finger foods, especially cheeses and nuts. Stuff a date with a walnut piece and a slice of
soft Brie, and a taste of heaven explodes in your mouth. One of my favorite combinations is dates and oranges, such as in these two recipes. MOROCCAN DATE-ORANGE SALAD 4 oranges, peeled and segmented 6 dates, pitted and thinly sliced lengthwise ½ tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground coriander 1 Tbsp powdered sugar ¼-½ c orange juice, to taste
RENEW & R EFRESH Spring into Summer
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray 9-inch square baking pan (glass preferred). Combine flour, oatmeal and leavening agents and reserve. In food processor, combine eggs, sugar, sour cream, butter and the orange. Process until the mixture is smooth with only tiny bits of orange visible. Add dates and walnuts and pulse a few times to chop but not mince. Pour mixture into large mixing bowl. Stir in dry ingredients until well blended. Pour into prepared pan and level. Bake 40 minutes or until the center of the cake springs back to the touch. Just before cake is done, combine the glaze ingredients in a saucepan and heat until bubbly. Remove the cake and use a toothpick to pierce holes all around the top. Pour the hot glaze over the cake, and allow it to soak into the cake. Serve warm or cold with whipped cream.
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DATE-ORANGE CAKE 2 eggs 1 cup sugar 2/3 cup sour cream 1/3 cup butter, softened 1 orange, unpeeled, quartered, seeds removed 1 cup dates, seeded ½ cup walnuts 1 ¾ cup unbleached flour ½ cup oatmeal 2 tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt ½ tsp baking soda Glaze: ½ cup sugar ½ cup orange juice 2-3 Tbsp brandy
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com
Hike of the Week
Point Isabel Regional Shoreline KEVIN PARKER
HIKER’S HAVEN With the dog days of summer upon us, I thought it would be fitting to explore a regional park that is pet friendly. For you dog owners out there, I’m sure you’ll agree that most open spaces in our area are off limits to dogs. However, a quick trip to Point Isabel Regional Shoreline will reveal why this place is a “Disneyland for Dogs” Point Isabel is a 23 acre park nestled along the Richmond waterfront with sprawling views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin County seen in all directions. Year round activities such as hiking, biking, bird-watching and fishing are all available, but the real reason to visit this park is for your furry little friends.
Kevin Parker/Clayton Pioneer
Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, along the Richmond waterfront, is a virtual “Disneyland for Dogs.”
Unlike most parks in California which require dogs to be on leash, Point Isabel allows dogs to be off leash in all areas
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a dog-wash, a small general store and even serves coffee for those cold days. And speaking of cold, remember even though it might be 102 degrees in Clayton, with a location right on the bay, the winds can rip a chill down your spine faster than a labrador fetching a tennis ball. With strategically placed garbage bins, plastic bag pick up stations, picnic tables, restrooms and enough community tennis balls to support Wimbledon, I knew this place was dogtopia! Open expanses of grassy fields, winding trails and my personal favorite, Hoffman Channel give the dogs unlimited running, jumping and swimming capabilities. For those of you worried about your dog running away while off leash, it is absolutely impossible because unless your dog can swim to Alcatraz, the rest of the park is fenced in for the protection of the pooches. Travel through the park, cross the bridge over Hoffman Channel and you are greeted by North Point Isabel Eastshore State Park, which provides more trails, accessible water spots, wide open fields and fantastic views of Richmond Harbor, Point Richmond and San Francisco.
So if you are looking to exercise the dogs in a beautiful outdoor setting, pack up the pooches, bring a frisbee, some tennis balls and set the compass to Point Isabel. After spending a few hours hiking around Point Isabel, it is obvious this park had one thing in mind when it was created, dogs are king! For more information: http://www.ebparks.org/parks /ptisable.htm or (510) 562PARK Comments/Sug gestions: hikershaven@comcast.net. Getting There: From I-580 or I-80 in Richmond, take the Central Avenue Exit West to Point Isabel on the Richmond waterfront (located adjacent to U.S. Postal Service Bulk Mail Center) Dog Friendly Factor: My canine kids give it four paws up! For more information on this hike or other outdoor experiences, contact me at hikershaven@comcast.net.
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5100 Clayton Road Concord, CA 94523 ph: 925-689-6245
“Look Who’s Selling Clayton!” HELP-U-SELL REAL ESTATE SERVICES 4918 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521 (925) 680-4950
Clayton
We sold our home on 522 Mt. Davidson Court in Clayton and saved over $32,100 in real estate fees! We are very happy with Help-U-Sell and would use them again! Our agent was very professional and thorough in handling the sale of our home! A. Medrano
We sold our home on 1816 Yolanda Circle in Clayton in 4 days using Help-U-Sell & saved over $27,600 in real estate commissions. This was by far the best real estate experience we have ever had! We are so happy with the results that we recommended Help-U-Sell to all our neighbors. J. Mann
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$679,000
201 Prospector Place
Clayton
$798,000
201 Condor Place
Clayton
$595,000
5185 Keller Ridge Drive
Clayton
$975,000
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,493 sq. ft. Gorgeous home with living/dining room combo, vaulted ceilings, custom fireplace with mantle & central heat/air. Large eat-in kitchen w/breakfast bar, maple cabinets, tile counters & dishwasher. Huge master suite on first floor, dual pane windows, beautiful patio with cover perfect for entertaining & spa included! View of hills from this home & on a quiet street!
4 bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 2,172 sq. ft. Beautiful home w/ family room right off kitchen & stone fireplace. Dual pane windows and owners leaving some window coverings. Laundry room with wood cabinets, central heat and AC in home. Large gorgeous backyard with romantic gazebo and spa.
3 bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,554 sq. ft. Two story unit, Elegant living room with two way fireplace, cooks kitchen w/ breakfast bar & pleasant outdoor patio that has sliding door from family room. Attached 2 car garage, full-sized laundry & nice community pool!
3 Bedrooms plus loft, 3 Baths, approx 2894 sq.ft. Large private lot, Gourmet kitchen w/upgraded tile counters and marble floor & newly painted in/out. Spacious living and family room each with it's own custom fireplace & professionally landscaped yards with covered patio in back. A must see to believe!
ng! Pendin
450 d $32,4 aved Sold! Selllerr S
d $27,950 aved Sold! Selllerr S
d $38,150 aved Sold! Selllerr S
26 Mt. Wilson Way
Clayton
$549,950
25 Atchinson Stage Rd.
Clayton
$699,000
5830 Del Trigo Lane
Clayton
$565,000
30 Fleming Ct.
Clayton
$785,000
3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1378 sq.ft. Separate 2 story unit with updated kitchen & baths! New water heater, dual pane windows throughout, freshly painted & new carpet in most rooms. Large finished garage w/workbench, storage & sports bar, large deck for entertaining & private, quiet, park like setting! Close to shopping & downtown.
Awake to Views of Mt. Diablo! 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Approx 2,549 sq. ft., Custom additions w/permits, new roof, pergo flrs, spacious family room w/brick fireplace & formal living & dining room w/bay windows, 3 sets of French doors, private landscaped backyard w/deck & RV parking too! Light & bright throughout!
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,659 sq.ft. Large .26 acre lot! Original hardwood flrs throughout, formal living rm w/fireplace, light & bright family rm & eat-in kitchen w/double oven. Central heat, vaulted ceilings, shutters/blinds throughout & large backyard with sparkling pool
4 bedrooms, plus den, 2.5 baths, approx 2368 sq.ft. hardwood flrs, marble entry, gorgeous kitchen w/granite tile counters & gas stove & large master suite w/walkin closet & marble bathroom. Spectacular tropical backyard with pool/spa & waterfall, extended BBQ island w/slate counter, sink, eating area and tile patio. This home is an absolute must see to believe! An entertainers Dream!
d $32,150! aved Sold! Selllerr S
ys!! Sold in 4 Da6,110 3 $ d ed Selllerr Sav
650! d $27,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S
600! d $45,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S
522 Mt. Davidson Court
Clayton
$685,000
4 Large bedrooms, 2 updated baths, approx 2325 sq.ft. Spacious formal living & dining room w/vaulted ceilings, family room w/wet bar, hardwood floor entry, updated eat-in kitchen w/tile counters & central heat/air. Spacious master suite, tile roof, new exterior paint & meticulously maintained yards!
182 Mt. Wilson Way
Clayton
$751,000
5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, approx 2,692 sq.ft. Lovely kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, gas stove, tile counters and garden window! Gas fireplace in family room, oak hardwood flr in entry, kitchen & eating area, wet bar & large laundry room with storage. Master Bedroom features views & private deck, lovely backyard with spa & gorgeous views!
1816 Yolanda Circle
Clayton
$610,000
3 Large Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,780 sq.ft. Gorgeous home inside & out! Spacious family room w/woodburning fireplace, dining room w/wood floors, new heat/air & new roof. Master Bedroom with French doors to private Trex patio deck, fruit trees & generous side & backyard with RV parking. Great Clayton Neighborhood!
102 Forest Hill Drive
Clayton
5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Gorgeous kitchen with granite counters, maple cabinets & island. Formal living w. fireplace & dining room, spacious family room w/fireplace. Open & bright throughout, inside laundry, 3 car garage, landscaped yards & Large master suite w/jacuzzi tub!
You Could Save $27,050! By selling your home with Help-U-Sell instead of with brokers who charge a 6% commission* (the savings are based on a home selling for $600,000).You can select from many fine real estate professionals.Why not choose one that will also save you money when you sell? *Commissions are negotiable and not set by law.
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Page A16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 1, 2005
georgevujnovich.com
Trust your home to
GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979
CLAYTON
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
JUST LISTED! Huge private level lot (.30 acres) at the end of a quiet court with 2/yr. new sparkling free-form pool with safety gate. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,005 sf, 2 car garage & inside laundry. Spacious and light-filled split level floor plan. Kitchen w/granite tile counters. Large patio/sun room with walls of windows. Formal living and dining rooms. Big family room with brick fireplace and granite tile wet bar. Large side yard for boat/RV parking. $799,900
JUST LISTED! Rare Ridgeline View Lot! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,600sf, & 3 car garage. Maple hardwood floors in Entry, Kitchen & Family Rooms. Neutral carpet, décor & plantation shutters. Formal living and dining rooms. Gourmet kitchen w/upgraded appliances, granite counters/island & maple cabinets. Master Suite w/private deck. Large bonus room. Tropical landscaping w/beautiful palms, stamped concrete & custom waterfall. $1,275,000
EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
Tel: (925) 672-4433 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517
EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
CLAYTON
JUST LISTED! Single-story Mediterranean open floor plan. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,427sf , 3 car garage, inside laundry. Large kitchen, eat-in breakfast nook, pantry and wet bar. Family room with brick fireplace. Spacious Master Suite and bath. Quiet setting, level lot with mature landscaping & hot tub. $849,500
Dramatic former model ("Whitney") on a prime golf course view lot! 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,606sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Elaborate custom window coverings & light fixtures. Upgraded marble tile floors throughout main level. Downstairs bedroom or office with bath. Gourmet Corian kitchen. Family room with custom marble fireplace. Lavish master suite. Private lot with deck & extensive waterfall/pond feature & endless views of hills, golf course, valley & city. $1,195,000
Mortgage Market Update
Lovely former model ("Shasta") on a prime golf course view lot! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,373sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Neutral décor throughout! Downstairs bedroom with full private bath. Gourmet kitchen. Family room with brick fireplace & custom cabinetry. Spacious master with jet tub. Private lot offers a relaxing spa & magnificent views of golf course, hills, valley & city. $1,150,000
Fantastic "Nantucket " model backing to open space! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,600sf, rare 4 car garage & inside laundry. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded tile floors, counters, island, upgraded cabinets & pantry. Extended family room features a fireplace & recess for TV. Neutral carpet & décor throughout! Spacious master suite overlooks views of open space. Private lot backs to open space & features a sparkling inground pool with built-in elevated spa. $1,175,000
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
Spectacular "Belvedere" model! backs to open space. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,911sf, inside laundry & rare 4 car garage with extensive custom built-in storage. Upgraded gleaming hardwood floors in entry, hall, living & dining rooms & kitchen. Downstairs bedroom or home office w/ private bath. Gourmet kitchen features granite counters, center island & pantry. Enormous great room with granite tile fireplace, full bar & custom built-in entertainment center. Master suite with jetted tub overlooks open space. Huge private level lot features a mini orchard, lush lawn, a spectacular array of flowers, paver patio & huge paved side yard with double gate! $1,250,000
Stunning "Nantucket" model in a quiet court setting! 4 bedrooms, den, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,820sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Neutral carpet, designer paint, plantation shutters & wood blinds throughout! Gourmet kitchen features tile counters, island & recipe desk with accent tile back splash, upgraded diagonal laid tile floors, upgraded "mocha" cabinets & pantry. Expanded family room offers a wood burning fireplace & TV recess. Spacious master suite with retreat/nursery/workout room. Large lot features colorful flowers, ornamentals, large lawn area & a trellis covered salt washed patio. $1,195,000
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
Immaculate "Nantucket" model facing open space! with views of hills, ridge & canyons. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,599sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Neutral carpet, décor & wood blinds throughout! Entry features upgraded double beveled glass front doors & upgraded tile floors. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded tile floors, counters, island, maple cabinets & pantry with frosted door. Expanded family room features fireplace with ceramic log insert & recess for TV. Spacious master suite. Rear yard offers a trellis covered random stone patio large lawn & play area. $1,150,000
Absolutely fabulous "Lassen" model! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,981sf, 2 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Completely redesigned & upgraded Chef's kitchen featuring Caesar Stone counters & center island, new cabinetry & professional grade stainless steel appliances! Upgrades & exquisite attention to detail throughout are too numerous to list - a MUST see! Luxurious master suite boasts spectacular views of city to Delta! Private lot features a flagstone patio, pergola & vibrant professional landscape. $1,135,000
Conforming $359,650 or less (no points)
Jumbo $359,651 and up (no points)
30 year, fixed for 3 5.125% 30 year, fixed for 5 5.25% 30 year, fixed for 7 5.375% 30 year, fixed for 10 5.625% 15 year . . . . . . . . .5.25% 30 year . . . . . . . . .5.75%
30 year, fixed for 3 5.125% 30 year, fixed for 5 5.25% 30 year, fixed for 10 5.75% 15 year . . . . . . . . .5.375% 30 year . . . . . . . . .5.875%
Clayton Market Update
Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
200 Tumbleweed Court 4104 Coyote Circle 1851 Eagle Peak Avenue 1118 Peacock Creek Dr 7006 Molluk Way 1 El Portal Drive 1500 Haviland Court 988 Oak Street 355 Mt. Washington Way 238 Mountaire Circle 105 La Encinal Court 1142 Peacock Creek Dr. 8034 Kelok Way 122 Regency Drive 8735 Marsh Creek Road 617 Myrick W Court 5206 Keller Ridge Drive 50 La Honda Court 1498 N Mitchell Cyn. Rd. 417 Chupcan Place 1016 Pebble Beach Drive 10 Goethals Court 165 Silverado Court 102 La Encinal Court 7 Nottingham Place 1264 Shell Circle 204 Mountaire Circle 1331 Shell Lane 402 Wright Court 8 El Portal Court 422 Meadow View Lane 1782 Indian Wells Way 208 Fleming Drive 1264 Shell Circle 204 Mountaire Circle 1331 Shell Lane 402 Wright Court
$1,045,000 $482,000 $780,000 $1,350,000 $873,000 $775,000 $550,000 $788,500 $770,000 $925,000 $830,000 $1,350,000 $969,000 $786,000 $990,000 $725,000 $899,000 $900,000 $735,000 $685,000 $1,125,000 $845,000 $1,400,000 $819,000 $849,000 $590,000 $800,000 $575,000 $819,000 $652,000 $1,675,000 $625,000 $792,250 $590,000 $800,000 $575,000 $819,000
6/16/05 6/15/05 6/8/05 6/3/05 6/2/05 6/1/05 6/1/05 6/1/05 5/31/05 5/31/05 5/31/05 5/27/05 5/27/05 5/27/05 5/26/05 5/26/05 5/26/05 5/25/05 5/20/05 5/20/05 5/20/05 5/20/05 5/19/05 5/19/05 5/18/05 5/18/05 5/12/05 5/12/05 5/12/05 5/11/05 05/06/05 05/05/05 05/04/05 5/18/05 5/12/05 5/12/05 5/12/05
2,306 1,026 2,053 4,100 2,743 2,424 1,256 2,131 1,919 2,489 2,390 4,100 2,843 2,010 2,300 1,813 2,237 2,390 1,948 1,749 3,030 1,854 3,599 2,401 2,210 1,355 2,619 1,355 2,033 1,648 5,450 1,235 1,976 1,355 2,619 1,355 2,033
BED/BATH 4/2 2/2 4/2 5/3 5/3 4/2 2/2 4/3 4/2 5/2 4/2 5/3 4/3 4/2 3/1 3/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 3/2 4/3 4/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 3/2 4/3 3/2 4/2 3/2 7/5 2/2 4/2 3/2 4/3 3/2 4/2
CLAYTON PIONEER July 15, 2005
Section B
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
First Place, Adult: Suzanne Stadler
Page B1
Third annual Clayton Pioneer July 4 Photo Contest draws over 60 entries When we first came up with the notion of a July 4 photo contest, we thought it was a pretty good idea. So, we printed the fly-
ers and stuck them up all over town and hoped for the best. The idea took off. Each year, we’ve topped the previous year in
number of entries. This year, we had 40 photographs vying for the top spots. The staff had a dickens of a
First Place, Child: Kasey Fitzsimmons
Second Place, Adult: Pat Sprague
s ’ n d o e t t y n a a l W C t s Mo
E H T
Second Place, Child Bethany Robinson, 12
Third Place, Adult Theresa Michel
S E M A J
G N GA Brooks B urtch, G reg E ricks
time choosing the winners. Entries were judged primarily on how well they captured the spirit of the day, then on composition and clarity. It was a strictly subjective set of standards, but it worked pretty well. The Clayton Pioneer congratulates this year’s winners: Adult Category: Suzanne Stadler takes first place for a $50 gift certificate at Elysium; Pat Sprague takes second for a $35 gift certificate at Pasta Primavera and Theresa Michel takes third for a $25 gift certificate at La Veranda. In the 12 and under category, Kasey Fitzsimmons walks away with first place for a $50 gift certificate at Mary’s Pizza Shack. Bethany Robinson wins second place for a $35 gift certificate at Rocco’s and Kayla Pearani takes third for a $15 gift certificate at Mt. Mike’s Pizza. We thank everyone who participated. We’re pretty sure the staff had as much fun choosing the photos as the photographers had in taking them.
Third Place, Child Kayla Pearani, 12
H
ere in the Bay Area at Security Pacific Real Estate, we have created The James Gang. A professional team of Realtors to offer you, our client, the best possible service. Our diligence and personal service are unbeatable, and by our placing several people together with various areas of expertise, you obtain more from your investment at no additional cost to you. If you are looking for someone you can trust to assist you in the significant venture of selling and/or locating a new home, please allow The James Gang to serve you.
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Page B2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 15, 2005
Clayton Sports Black Pearl heads to Nationals in Florida
Photo by Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
Soccer players Garrett Biel and Harjan Cheema, members of DVSC Black Pearl 90 are looking forward to a win in Florida at the National Championship finals.
JAY BEDECARRE Special to the Pioneer
Two local teenagers will be in Florida next week. They aren’t there to visit Disney World but rather to play in the United States Club Soccer national championships. Their Diablo Valley Soccer Club Black Pearl 90 under 14 boys team defeated host Boise Capitals 3-0 in the final game of the US Club Soccer Regionals over the 4th of
July weekend to earn a berth in National Cup IV at Jacksonville, Florida July 21-24. Garrett Biel, Harjan Cheema and their DVSC Black Pearl 90 teammates became the eighth team from DVSC to qualify for youth soccer National Championship finals in the past four seasons. Biel is a center midfielder and Cheema a central defender for the team. Coach John Badger’s team gave up just two goals in their
The OFF season is when you train to Secure your spot IN season
four games to win the Region G title at Boise.The DVSC team includes boys from 10 cities in Contra Costa and Solano counties. Coach Badger is a longtime DVSC coach who led his first team, DVSC Cosmos which also included a number of local players, to a pair of State Cup championships . Both Cheema and Biel played for Badger last year when he started coaching this age group’s team. Cheema, 14, will be a sopho-
SPEED
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We are so confident in our program we guarantee results.
more this year at Clayton Valley High School. His parents, Anoop and Manjit, are local business people operating Dryclean USA in the Clayton Station shopping center. Biel and his older brother Matt have been active athletes in Clayton for many years. Both began as swimmers with the Dana Hills Otters Swim Team. Garrett joined DVSC five years ago on DVSC Atlas (now DVSC Black Pearl 90) in the under 11 age group. He will be a freshman at De La Salle High this fall and is celebrating his 14th birthday today. Garrett’s parents, Toni and Mike, founded the Dana Hills Pentathlon that celebrated its 11th edition last weekend. USCS Regionals were also held this summer in New York, Ohio, Las Vegas, Georgia, Oklahoma, Indiana and New Jersey. DVSC entered five boys and two girls teams (all featuring local players) in the Boise Regionals and nearly had a second team reach the National Cup. The Black Pearl 89 boys twice took a lead in the U15 boys championship game but late in the second half Santa Anita SC of Southern California broke a 2-2 tie to earn the National Cup berth. The DVSC Black Pearl 87 U17 boys (formerly DVSC Cosmos) also fell short of another trip to the National finals when they lost to eventual champs FC United of Washington in the semi-finals. Both DVSC girls team won two of three games but weren’t
able to move on as they lost to the eventual tournament winners. The Black Pearl 89 U15 girls lost 3-2 in their second game to OJSC Barcelona and failed to move on despite two other victories. OJSC won all four of their other games by three goals or more, with Black Pearl giving them their only close contest. The U14 Black Pearl 90 girls also finished 2-1 with their only loss to tournament winner Central Valley Mercury. The Boise Regionals included teams from Northern and Southern California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. DVSC competitive teams are now getting ready for the 20052006 season and several teams still have positions available. For more information on DVSC player evaluations and to follow the National Cup IV results of DVSC Black Pearl 90 visit www.dvsc.com.
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CVAA FALCONS FOOTBALL AND CHEER FINAL REGISTRATION The Clayton Valley Athletic Association Final Registration for both 2005 Cheer and Football parents is on July 29 for youths 7-14 for football (age as of Aug. 1, 2005) in different age and weight divisions. Practice begins Aug. 1, from 6- 8 p.m. at Clayton Valley High School with Jamboree on Aug. 27-28. CVAA Falcons play their first home game this year on Sept. 24 at CVHS. www.cvaafalcons.com or call 927-7377 for more info. OAKHURST SUMMER JUNIOR GOLF CAMPS Oakhurst Country Club junior golf camps for youth age 7 or 8 and older. Each camp is open to the public and runs four days, Tues-Fri., 8–10 a.m. $100 for members and $125 for non-members. Camps are Jul. 26-29, Aug. 9-12 and Aug. 23-26. Call 6732813 for more information.
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July 1, 2005
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page B3
Clayton Sports Nick Moresi
PIONEER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
NICK MORESI
Nick Moresi is the Pioneer Spotlight Athlete for July. Nick, who is a Clayton resident and a sophomore in college, plays baseball for California State University, Fresno, and was the team’s leading hitter this year. He played center field and was named the Bulldogs’ Most Valuable Player for
2005. He was also awarded the Golden Glove for the season. Moresi led the team in batting with a .352 average. He also led the team in steals, swiping a perfect 13 out of 13 attempts at the extra bag and was second on the team both in home runs with 11 and in RBIs with 54. His RBI total ranked second in the entire Western Athletic
Conference, while his batting average was ranked third. He also had a .566 slugging percentage and an on-base percentage of .405. He earned the Golden Glove Award by defending his center field position in making only three errors out of 119 chances for a .975 fielding percentage. He had a .339 average, five home runs and 26 RBIs during WAC games. Fresno State’s baseball program is in a rebuilding phase. They had an overall 30-29 record this past season, winning 26 out of 39 games at home but finding the competition on the road a lot more difficult, winning four of 16 games. They were 16-14 in the Western Athletic Conference and a disappointing 2-12 against nationallyranked competition, including 0-3 against Stanford, 0-2 vs. Cal State Fullerton, 0-3 against Cal Poly and 2-4
against Rice U n i v e r s i t y. However, the team was young, starting seven sophomores and freshmen most of the season. Moresi made the most of his season, however. He had 24 multiple-hit games, and his longest hitting streak was 16 straight games. He normally batted third in the lineup (with the team finishing with a 21-17 W-L record with him in that spot) but when he batted fourth, the team record was 8-4. With the experience gained by the young Fresno State players this past year, the Bulldogs are looking forward to an even more successful 2006 season. Moresi hopes to continue to help contribute toward the Bulldogs’ goal. Moresi played high school baseball for De La Salle. He is currently playing competitive baseball on the East Coast this summer. Congratulations, Nick, on a great performance!
The Clayton Pioneer spotlights a local youth athlete from our circulation area in the second issue each month and Rocco’s congratulates the athlete with a free pizza. If you are a coach or an administrator and would like to nominate a young person (under 20 years of age) for the Rocco's Athlete Spotlight, please send information to sports@claytonpioneer.com or fax to 6726580. Deadline for our July 15 issue is Tuesday, July 5.
CV Minor B Athletics win TOC District 4 Championship JAY POLSHUK Special to the Pioneer
The Clayton Valley Minor B Athletics defeated East County 9 to 6 to complete an impressive sweep of postseason play to win the Tournament of Champions for District 4. 67 teams from 11 leagues in District 4 compete during their regular season for an opportunity to play in TOC. The 11 teams that qualify represent the best team from each league. The A’s triumphed in 3 games at TOC beating the Antioch Yankees, the Alameda Pirates, and the East County Mariners to become one of the
few teams in Clayton Valley Little League history to win the overall championship. Congratulations to all of the A’s players and coaches. Ashley Allen, Jonathan Allen, Peter Fosbery, Christopher Fregosi, Ryan Freitas, Brandon Gallagher, William Happy, Ben Polshuk, Ryan Williams, Spencer Wraa, Tanner Wraa, Jacob Zabel and coaches Carl Allen, Chris Fregosi, Richard Williams CHAMPIONSHIP GAME HIGHLIGHTS A’s vs. East County Mariners A’s 9, Mariners 6
Defense was the key to the game. First Base anchored by Ben Polshuk had two unassisted outs. Outfield was strong with put outs by Jonathan Allen, Christopher Fregosi. Right field was played by Spencer Wraa and Jacob Williams, in the second inning Spencer Wraa made a run saving catch followed up by throwing out a single hit sharp to Right field. Play of the game came in the 4th inning with the bases loaded and one out the Mariners had the big hitters up. Mariner batter hit a hard line drive towards second that was caught by Brandon Gallagher and went on to second base for
the unassisted double play to end the inning. A’s coasting to a 9-2 lead going into the bottom of the six after strong pitching by Ryan Freitas, Ashley Allen and Christopher Fregosi. The A’s had two outs with their last pitcher in when the Mariners started a challenge. A couple of big hits by the Mariners and the score was 9-5, with 2 outs the A’s pitcher was pulled due to a hits batter rule. Third baseman Ryan Williams was called in to get the final out. Runners on 1st and 3rd the mariners got an infield hit to make the score 96. Runners on 1st and 2nd the mariners hit a sharp ball to
CLAYTON VALLEY MINOR B ATHLETICS
Ashley Allen at short who flipped it to second baseman Brandon Gallagher for the
third and final out for the championship.
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CV Camp coaches at the Oregon Team Camp, Jim Murphy, camper Kevin Murphy, Dan Murphy.
CVHS Varsity and JV Football teams traveled to the University of Oregon with 51 players and five
coaches for the Oregon Team Camp June 19 through 23. With 16 varsity and eight junior varsity teams totaling
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800 campers, the Eagles had an outstanding camp. The varsity led by Vinnie Levine, Robert Lorenzi, Sam Faleafine and Hayden Piper beat the Bears (the top Renegade team) 12-0 but lost to Bear River (Grass Valley) 18-6 in the Championship Game in the Top Flight Scrimmage Bracket. The JV club led by Jeff Henry, Kevin Tellian and Danny Roper placed third in the Top Bracket. Henry, Tellian, and Roper are Clayton residents. Later in the month, the CVHS Fourth Annual Youth Football Camp at Clayton Valley High School drew 70 campers from grades 3-9. The campers participated in full contact drills that con-
cluded with a Friday Scrimmage and Awards. Award Winners: for Elementary Level campers were Riley Tullis, Jon Terry and Floyd Williams. Middle School award winners were Chris Quadrato, Jerrod Newberry and Rodrigo Morales. Frosh Award Winners were Danny Valenzuela, Andrew Fernandes, Brady Raye and Eduardo De La Torre. Clayton residents include Tullis, Williams and Q u a d r a t o . Former Raider Josh Taves made a special guest appearance Friday for autographs and pictures.
The Pioneer -- It’s your paper!
Page B4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 1, 2005
Devil Mt. Pentathlon likely the biggest meet ever 850 swimmers battled it out in a grueling five event competitionfor top awards.
Ashley Jennings, 2nd, DHST; Marisa Marr, 7th, DHST; Tyler Klock, 8th, DHST. 15-18: Kelsey Brassil, 5th, DHST; Danny Boessenecker, 1st; DHST; Erik Peterson, 3rd, DHST.
JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
B DIVISION 6 and under: Heidi Schau, 1st, DHST; Lily Stagner, 3rd; DHST; Bridget Hyland, 4th, DHST; Jacklyn Aragon, 5th, Oakhurst; Max Siverberg, 1st, Oakhurst; Jake Molale, 2nd, Oakhurst; Anthony Friedman, 3rd, DHST; Jordy Robichaud, 4th, Oakhurst; Jonathan Williams, 6th, DHST; Joshua Wolfram, 7th, Oakhurst.
Swimmers from twelve swim teams filled the grounds at the Dana Hill’s pool and cabana in Clayton and competed last weekend in the Devil Mountain Pentathlon. Over 900 swimmers participated. This is probably the most participants ever, however firm statistics are not available to confirm this. The Devil Mountain Pentathlon is a grueling fiveevent competition. Each swimmer must swim all five events, (i.e.freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, butterfly and individual medley (IM) which is one leg of each of the four different strokes) all in one day to be eligible for the Pentathlon. Swimmers 6 and under swim the double distance freestyle in place of the IM for the rest of the age groups. That equals 4,170 swims if all the swimmers participate in all five events. Other important swim meets in our area usually spread events over two days of swimming on a weekend, and they also limit the number of events an individual swimmer can enter. So this meet is different and it’s a lot of fun for the very reason that makes it different. Everyone gets a lot of swims. The Pentathlon is like the “Iron Man” competition of swimming. It is a true test of endurance as well as speed. Swimmers must swim their best stroke events and their worst stroke events to qualify for the overall Pentathlon. The younger
9-10: Carly Sullivan, 2nd, DHST; Gabriella Brown, 6th, DHST; Sara Johnson, 7th, DHST; Ryan Calkins, 2nd, DHST; Carter Newton, 3rd, DHST; Ryan Haley, 6th, DHST; Michael Fryer, 7th, DHST. 11-12: Kimberly Loyola, 5th, DHST; Nicholas Fong, 1st, DHST; Ben Silverberg, 6th, Oakhurst.
Photo courtest of Mike Kohler/DHST
Oakhurst; Mitchell Longman, 3rd, Oakhurst.
15-18: Kimberly Cheng, 3rd, DHST; Michael Murray, 3rd, DHST; Nick Keenan, 8th, DHST.
9-10: Chloe Trainor, 2nd, DHST; Nicole Palmer, 3rd, DHST; Samantha Boeger, 6th, DHST; Bailey Rogers, 8th, DHST.
TEAM RESULTS Springwood, 1st; Pleasant Hill Dolphins, 2nd; Valley Vista, 3rd; Walnut Country 4th and Oakhurst Country Club, 5th.
13-14 girls get ready to compete at this year’s Devil Mountain Pentathlon sponsored by the Dana Hills Swim Team. swimmers age 6 through 9-10 girls swim all five events on Saturday and the older swimmers age 9-10 boys through age 15-18 swim all five of their events on Sunday. Below are the 2005 Pentathlon results. There are 46 swimmers listed from Oakhurst Country Club Swim Team and Dana Hills Swim Team (our two local Clayton swim teams) along with their place. These are the swimmers who finished in the “top eight” in each age group
for both the A and B Divisions. These are the swimmers whose overall combined times for all five events were the fastest in their respective divisions. We have listed the top five teams in the overall team Pentathlon standings which won awards this year. Those teams had the overall fastest swimmers. Each year the host, Dana Hills Swim Team, removes itself from the team standings competition in the spirit of sportsmanship but allows its individual
swimmers to compete for the individual event awards as well as the overall Pentathlon awards to keep the competition fair and interesting. The following is a listing of the top Dana Hills and Oakhurst swimmers in the Pentathlon. Swimmers are listed by name, place, and team. A DIVISION 6 and under: Alina Weigelt, 2nd, DHST; Bailey Deschane, 6th, Oakhurst; Bill Ralston, 2nd,
13-14: Ashley Richman, 1st, Oakhurst; Kirstie Barber, 4th, DHST; Colton Rogers, 4th, DHST; Joseph Skanalaris, 7th, DHST.
11-12: Kaitlyn O’Connell, 1st, DHST; Jenna Stelzner, 2nd, DHST; Hanna Polshuk, 3rd, Oakhurst; Jessica Pearson, 4th, Oakhurst. 13-14: Kara Kohler, 1st, DHST;
Other teams that participated were Martinez Community, Pleasant Hill Aquatics, Bishop Estates, Forest Hill, LMYA, Vista Diablo Dolphins and Dana Hills.
Oakhurst receives donation as its junior team shines JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
Oakhurst Country Club received a $500 contribution
toward its Junior Golf programs from Concord BMW. The donation will be used for various activities, including assisting the Oakhurst’s Bay
Cities League of Junior Golfers as well as Oakhurst’s several Summer Junior Golf Camps, which are scheduled throughout the summer at Oakhurst.
Photo courtesy of Glen West
Oakhurst General Manager Ollie Becker (left) receives a check from Concord BMW representative Michael Chavez during Oakhurst’s three-day Member–Guest Tournament.
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Supporting junior golf is important because the sport requires specialized equipment and, of course, a golf course, which is not always available to youth. The Bay Cities League of Junior Golfers provides an opportunity for competitive golf for junior golfers and promotes and fosters golf etiquette and a competitive spirit. The league is open children and grandchildren of members of the various clubs and offers a limited number spots for non-member junior golfers. These non-member players are eligible for each team in the league. The League consists of teams from 30 Golf Clubs across the Bay Area and is divided into four divisions. Oakhurst’s junior team plays in the Eastern Division with Castlewood, Round Hill, Contra Costa, Blackhawk, Diablo, Orinda and Ruby Hill golf clubs. Golfers for the Oakhurst Bay Cities team are Bob Warren, Dave Sager, Bob
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On July 2, three Kyle Souza, Andrew Haggen and Andrew Roberts had noteworthy performances where they scored three individual points each, the maximum possible (and a total of nine points overall) for the Oakhurst team by winning their individual front nine, back nine and overall 18 holes. Their two-man better ball teams also won a combined 8.5 points out of a possible nine. These three golfers helped contribute 17.5 points among the 23 points Oakhurst won during the match. Dave Sager also contributed 2.5 points. And, Oakhurst played this match one player short since they only had seven scoring-eligible golfers available for this holiday weekend match. In addition to the Bay Cities team and the Summer Junior Golf Camps, Oakhurst Country Club also assists Junior Golf by donating the use of its course to the Clayton Valley High School golf teams, which use Oakhurst as their home course for BVAL League play.
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Bucey, Kyle Souza, Andrew Haggen, Matt Morris, Andrew Roberts, Greg Palm, Anthony Carroll, Ryan Gaitan, Leo Arevalo, and Kevin Renfer. Bob Ament, golf pro at Oakhurst, is the head coach, and he is assisted by Craig Renfer and Bob Bucey. The team has played well this year and it currently is in fourth place in its division – a half game behind Round Hill and Contra Costa, who are tied for second but who have played one less match to date During its most recent competition on Saturday, July 2, the Oakhurst team beat Blackhawk at Blackhawk Country Club by a score of 23-13 and currently leads the league in total points scored. In the Bay Cities League, the top eight golfers from each club’s team play against each other as the scoring-eligible players during a match. Other golfers from each team also play and have the incentive to try to score well enough to make it into the top eight for the team’s next match.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Training, not laws, is key to preventing dog bites
BRENDA BARNETTE PICASSO
PAWS
AND
AND
CLAWS
On Sept. 13, 2002, the Herald Republic reported that the City Council of Mabton, Washington adopted an ordinance requiring that all dogs weighing more than 40 pounds must wear a muzzle or related bite-prevention device when in public. That ordinance, and others like it, intended to protect humans and smaller dogs, are very shortsighted and unfair to larger dogs. Sadly, this kind of legislation influences people to assume that all large dogs are dangerous. Today, there is a lot of talk about banning certain breeds and about strengthening dog laws to increase public safety. If passing laws worked we would have no public safety issues of any kind. We need to thoughtfully dissect the problems that lead to dangerous situations in our community and address them with effective education.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, bites to children comprise more than 50 percent of the total number of cases, and 61 percent of all dog attacks happen in the home or a familiar place. Seventy-seven percent of dogs involved in a bite incident actually belong to the victim’s family or a close friend. Family dogs with no prior history of aggression might be provoked to bite when in pain or if they feel that they or their family is being threatened. We must use good judgment in protecting ourselves and our dogs. When entering a home with a dog, always remember that you are entering his territory. Go slowly and wait for an introduction. Give the dog space and don’t try to become friends right away. Never move quickly when approaching a dog that is lying quietly or sleeping. When playing with a dog that is becoming overly excited, take a time out. Never tease a dog. Teasing is not fun for them—in fact, it can be quite alarming to them. Children under the age of five are most likely to be bitten. Never leave small children alone with a dog. If you feel you are in a dangerous situation, do not run screaming from the dog. The dog may instinctively give
chase. Do not make direct or prolonged eye contact—a dog that feels threatened could perceive this as a challenge. If an unknown dog approaches you, stand very still. If a dog knocks you down, roll up into a ball and remain as still as possible. Most people consider companion animals to be best friends and family members. We must protect them from harmful situations as we do our children, our elders or any other family member. Take your dog to training classes; you’ll get to know each other better. She will become trained and better socialized. You will learn to communicate with her, which will help you anticipate and respond to things that may frighten her and cause unacceptable behavior. We can do a lot to protect our best friends from dangerous situations and prevent them from becoming another number in the dog bite statistics. Passing ordinances and adding laws is not the answer. Good judgment is the key to making our lives with dogs safer and more enjoyable. In turn, they will repay us with a lifetime of unconditional love and loyalty. Brenda F. Barnette is the CEO of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at bbarnette@arf.net.
Page B5
Hanna is ARF’s Adoption Star
Hanna is a 2-year-old shepherd/terrier mix who was out of time at a public shelter when The ARF Rescue Patrol™ arrived to save her and bring her back to ARF. Hanna seeks a lively home. She is a smart dog who will thrive on exercise and mental stimulation. Hanna loves to play hard but still wants to snuggle with her companions. She is recommended for families with children ages 12 and above. Bring everyone who will live with Hanna, including any canine family members, to meet
her at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Check out the schedule of classes at ARF University for dogs. From basic manners to advanced agility, you will find a fun class. Class size is limited. Visit ARF’s Web site, www.arf.net, to learn more or call (925) 2561ARF.
Letter to the Editor
City Dog Park finally has water
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After more than five years of fund raising efforts, the Clayton K-9 Coalition announces that fresh water is now available at the dog park-just in time for the hottest part of the summer. We would like to thank everyone who has donated money or services to this effort over the years. If you haven’t been to the park lately, please check it out. This fall we will be planting a few shade trees to further improve the park. The dog park is located along the trail that runs parallel to Marsh Creek Road near the intersection of Regency Drive. Parking for the dog park is available at the lower ball field parking lot at the Clayton
Community Park. Linda Pinder, Secretary, K9 Coalition
Winston laps up the first bowl of fresh water from the newly installed spigot at the Clayton Dog Park. Winston’s owner John Burgh has been a faithful volunteer during the installation.
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Page B6
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Dining Around If you're hungry and want healthy food, CAFÉ SANTE is the perfect place to be. Ideally located in Maverick's Sports Club on Clayton Road where parking is plentiful, Café Sante offers an inviting menu with delicious items made fresh while you wait. For breakfast try the breakfast burrito or grab a bagel or muffin before you head to work. And for lunch or dinner, Café Sante has some interesting menu items like the "Wrap it Up" caesar, veggie or deli style. There's salads and daily grill selections like chicken, ball-tip or salmon served as a sandwich or Caesar salad. If you're in the mood for something hot, try the home-made turkey chili, spinach lasagne or soups and stews. Café Sante has a coffee bar, kids menu and a successful catering business The casual ambiance makes this an inviting place to dine any time. And you will enjoy meeting owner Susan O'Toole who greets everyone with a smile and great service. Coming soon is Café Sante's Frozen Yogurt bar. Don’t be mislead by the name of this delightful family restaurant just over the hill in in the Citrus Marketplace. MARY’S PIZZA SHACK is definitely NOT a shack, and you can find a lot more on the menu than just pizza--although the pizza is a fine choice, indeed. Mary’s Pizza Shack serves up a delicious array of pizza and Italian dishes with both a luncheon and dinner menu. For lunch, try the Bucatini with a small Caesar. perfectly al dente pasta lightly sauteed in butter with garlic, fresh tomatoes and basil. And if you like Caesar Salad, Mary’s is exceptional-ice cold and crisp. And the pizza ---ahhh. Melt-in-your-mouth crust and only the freshest ingredients go into this legendary pizza. Mary’s loves families so
bring the kids. Pizzas range from $7 for a small Napoletana to $20.50 for the large Mary’s Combination. A pasta lunch will run you $7.25-$9.25; dinner $10.75-$13.25. Both include soup or salad, warm sourdough bread and beverage. See Mary’s Pizza Shack ad this page. Linguini’s is now the PAVILION BAR AND GRILL. New owner, Hamid Shahrodizadh has added specialty items from the grill to Linguini’s traditional Italian fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, gnocchi, tortellini and vongole. Grilled items include steaks, fish and veggies and range from $5.95 for an appetizer of cheese sticks to $19.95 for the New York strip topped with sauteed mushrooms. Pizza lovers will all be happy with the new selections. Vegetarians can choose from three selections including the Mediterranean, topped with mozzarella, spinach, sun dried tomatoes, olives, garlic, Feta cheese and drizzled with a light olive oil. The Meat Lover’s Pizza is topped with enough pepperoni, sausage, beef and salami to put every meat lover in paradise. Pizzas come in small, medium, large and extra large sizes and range from $9.95 for a small classic cheese pizza to $22.95 for an extra large Super Combo. See ad this page for hours. ELYSIUM also has a brand new menu with more choices and lower prices. Dishes range from “small plates,” featuring appetizers, soups and salads from $5 for Organic Field Greens with toasted hazelnuts, beets and champagne vinegar, to a Half Dozen Oysters on the Half Shell for $12. “Medium plates-good for tasting,” (try the Cornmeal Crusted Calamari Salad with spicy aioli for $7.50) are great for a light meal, or you can combine them with a smaller plate for a complete
american contemporary bistro in downtown Clayton
E lysium “Elysium is a bit of heaven in the suburbs”
-San Francisco Chronicle, 2/18/2005
$1.00 off any large smoothie when you mention this ad Serving fresh fruit
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10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
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Ask us about Catering.
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meal. “Large plates, good for an entree” include Halibut and a Five Spice Dusted Duck Breast for $15; or Flank Steak and Frites (simple as that) for $14 among other choices. Owner Greg Severn has also added a “Little Ones Only” menu and heartily welcomes families with children. See Elysium’s ad this page for hours. Are you ready for a relaxing afternoon with friends, enjoying a pot of tea and delectable treats in a beautiful full service tea room? ENGLUND'S TEA COTTAGE offers these amenities and more at their lovely tea room in the Clayton Station. Proprietors Sally Englund and Pamela Barnett want the tea cottage to be a place "where good friends gather." After you browse the gift shop and collectibles, enjoy lunch or high tea with tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, fresh fruit and dip and dessert. There's a beautiful muraled room perfect for bridal and baby showers, staff meetings and club gatherings. To book your party, call 672-8327. Lunch reservations are a must. Do you have a hunger for Thai food but your dining partner is holding out for Indian? Not a problem. The new HOT BASIL CAFÉ in Concord can meet both your culinary desires for lunch or dinner. The menu has separate Thai and Indian pages but is a melding of the two cuisines. All lunches are under $10 and dinners are in the $9.95-$13.95 range. See ad this page for hours. If you have a hearty appetite and a slim budget, you'll want to head on over to MOUNTAIN MIKE'S for the "All you can eat lunch buffet" Mondays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. With two locations to serve you, the popular pizza restaurant has all the pizza, garlic sticks and salad bar you can eat for lunch. Price is only $4.99, kids 6 & under, $1.15 and kids 712, $2.99. There's also an "All you can eat" pizza and
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New Lunch Menu from $6.95 Kids Menu, $3.95 Hours: Mon. – Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. 1508 Kirker Pass Rd. Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. behind Shell Station Banquet facilities available
Dinner Tue - Sat, 5 p.m. closed Monday
July 15, 2005
672-6868
salad bar every Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. for $5.99 for adults; kids 6 and under is only $1.15 and kids 712, $3.45. For fine dining and lovely atmosphere, downtown Clayton has two very fine dining establishments. At the corner of Center and Marsh Creek Road is LA VERANDA, serving a Northern Italian menu of pasta, pizza, chicken, veal and fish, starting at $8.50 for Bruchetta with olive oil, fresh tomatoes, garlic and basil. Pasta dishes range from $9 for Penne All’arrabiata to $11.75 for Spaghettini Frutti di Mare. A popular choice, La Veranda is open daily for lunch and dinner and on Sunday for brunch. For view and atmosphere you can’t do better than ZANDONELLA’S situated on the lovely Delta View Golf Course in Pittsburg. Zandonella’s is open Tue.Sun for lunch and dinner. This family friendly restaurant offers an extensive menu that covers every craving. From that perfect bowl of Spaghetti and Meatballs all the way to a succulent and perfectly roasted rack of lamb, you are sure to find your favorite. All entrees include soup or salad, pasta and bread. The view is free. Call for reservations, 432-1700. Just down Clayton Road at the corner of Clayton Road and Treat Blvd., is PASTA PRIMAVERA. This lovely little trattoria offers a delectable linguini with garlic and mushrooms in a virgin olive oil for $8.95...my personal favorite. Other pasta dishes include Chicken Pesto Gorgonzola, a rigatoni dish with chicken breast and tomatoes in a creamy pesto Gorgonzola
See Dining, page B7
La Veranda Café
Northern Italian Cuisine in downtown Clayton Fresh soups, salads, antipasti, pizza and pasta Dinner and lunch daily Brunch on Sunday Children’s menu and take out service available
For reservations call (925) 524-0011 6201 CENTER ST. CLAYTON
It’s always the right time for tea at
Englund's Tea Cottage “Where good friends gather...”
A beautiful full service tea room featuring… High tea. Delectable lunches. Fresh salads. Fresh baked scones and desserts. Special events. and Come our e brows and p o gift sh tibles c e l l o c
672-TEAS (8327) www.EnglundsTeaCottage.com 5433 L Clayton Road in Clayton Station
Why wait? Why fight traffic and wait hours for a table when a short, 15 minute drive over the hill will bring you to your new favorite restaurant? Fine Italian dining on the beautiful Delta View Golf Course 2222 Golf Club Road, Pittsburg (925) 432-1700 From Clayton, take Kirker Pass over the hill Turn left on Leland to Golf Club Road
• Banquet Rooms • Off-site Catering
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July 15, 2005
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
On Bailey Road where the buffalo roam
Dining, from page B6 sauce ($13.95.) For an intimate atmosphere and a good wine list, Pasta Primavera can’t be beat. A little more on the casual side and a great place to take the kids is ROCCO’S RISTORANTE at 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek. Voted the best pizza in the Bay Area by a Contra Costa Times Reader Poll, Rocco’s serves up a killer house specialty. The Dominator, piled high with pepperoni, salami, mushrooms, ham, linguica,
joy An Italian En Fe
sausage and onions, is not for the faint of heart. At $19.97, this large pizza will feed a small army. Rocco’s also has several choices of classic Italian pasta, homemade minestrone and several salads. All pasta dishes are served with fresh bread. Top your pasta dinner off with a glass of wine and you’re well fed and satisfied for well under $20 (tax and tip included.) Rocco’s opens every day at 11 a.m.
ast at Ou r
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PAUL SCHNURR Special to the Clayton Pioneer
What a surprise I had one morning, heading over Bailey Road to Pittsburg on my way to work. It was a frontier scene right out of the old American West, a vivid reminder of where we once were as a nation and how far we’ve come in the name of progress. Just past the property owned by the Concord Naval Weapons Station, grazing peacefully on the west slope of a tall, brown, grassy hillside was a small herd of buffalo. I know Bailey Road has its secrets and its charms; secrets hidden in the hard clay or stuck in the tiny fissures of rocks, secrets spoken in grassy whispers, but I never suspected they would come in the form of a one ton wooly mammal with that unforgettably huge head hanging low. Knowing that the Concord Naval Weapons Station has a herd of Tule Elk roaming their property, my first thought, before I learned that the buffalo were on a parcel adjacent to the Weapons Station, was that the herd of buffalo belonged to that same government enterprise protecting the Tule Elk and was being introduced to the area as part of a wild game in open spaces plan. Realizing that this was too idealistic and naïve a notion, (to think that open space would be used for the purpose of introducing buffalo to the area), I made a few phone calls to find out what the buffalo were really doing there. Whatever agency I spoke with, from the EPA to the Assessor’s Office to the Director of the Naval Weapons Station, they all said the same thing, “There’s no buffalo up there. You must have seen the herd of Tule Elk.” My list of people wanting to see the picture grew, as did their curiosity, so I was glad I had pulled over to take the picture.
At first, I drove right past the herd. The significance of what I had seen didn’t hit me for another quarter-mile, so I made a u-turn and headed back to take the shot while parked on a relatively nonexistent shoulder. The herd eyed me cautiously as the calf moved closer to its mother. I drove to work very happy, understanding that I had witnessed not just a rancher’s herd of buffalo probably destined for the dinner plate, but a big game archetypal memory from a pre-industrialized time in America’s history. I shared all of this information with a friend, who was very matter of fact when he told me, “Buffalo is a low cholesterol meat that tastes good and the beef industry is probably pushing it to offer something new to the public.” My idealism kicked in again after hearing that. I knew he was right, but I could not stop thinking about how refreshing it would be to see that herd on a regular basis roaming the grassy hillsides just for the sake of it. However, there can be no herd without the open space. When it comes to making an
argument for the protection of wild spaces so that people can enjoy the inherent beauty, perhaps it is best formed by using the words of John Ledyard, a chronicler of one of Captain Cook’s voyages. When he spoke of the Hawaiian Islands, he said, “They transport and convince.” This is the best argument I could ever come up with when fighting for the preservation of open space and its inhabitants—they “transport and convince.” The post-911 mind is soothed by the sight of such a majestic animal roaming around in our neighborhood, on our lands, and it is a natural feeling to want to protect one of the last great sanctuaries in our county. The sighting of the buffalo brought into sharp focus an issue confronting Contra Costans. How do we protect our open space and what do we do with it once it’s protected? The government agencies see it like this. They must either expand the growth line or fill in the gap. They have decided to fill in the gap. This adds a tax base without having to deal with urban line issues.
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Photo courtesy of Paul Schnurr
A small herd of buffalo graze on the hills of the Concord Naval Weapons Station.
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Take Montecito for example, the development off of Ygnacio Valley Road at Cowell Road. It is a cramped community built on the principle of filling in the gaps. Forget about the disappearance of an American icon from our lands. What about the disappearance of the American backyard? The next major land deal which will result in the loss of a very beautiful stretch of valley is the development of the property belonging to the Naval Weapons Station. I wonder how big those backyards will be. I suppose that as long as you can fit in a barbecue grill, the size of a backyard is irrelevant. Once the arsenic, used extensively by the Navy as an herbicide and as a rodenticide is cleaned up, the land should be safe for some really spacious backyard barbecues serving up some popular, low cholesterol buffalo. I hope you enjoy the picture of the herd. “These are good days,” I thought to myself after reflecting on the scene. And I hope there will be many more reminders over the long, hot summer of the importance of open space, and of its inhabitants, that bring to us the intimacy of the wild. My fear, however, is that it is just a novelty which I am sure will pass as have most great things under the pressure of expansionism. Yellowstone will always have its herds and it is there that they will have to be enjoyed, but for the time being, Bailey Road has a secret lurking in the tall grass and how great would it be to see one last time in the words of Lewis and Clark “the moving multitude darkening the plains.”
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 15, 2005
Pick the right plants for our sticky Clayton clay
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
Our summers are mostly hot and very dry. Lots of plants are out there, yet which ones have a better chance thriving in our hot, dry air, sticky clay soil and scalding hot sun? Knowing the answer will make your landscapes much more successful and fulfilling. Clay soil has some very basic setbacks. The heavy soil will hold water longer and drain more slowly than lighter soil. Recognizing and improving drainage problems will increase your gardening success, as will choosing plants that are more tolerant to the clay environment. Clay soil takes longer to warm up in the spring. Therefore, some of your landscapes may have taken a while to wake up this spring. Leaves may have taken longer to come out, especially on choices such as the Crape Myrtle and Trumpet Vine. This is a side effect to sticky clay soil. Trees that thrive in clay soils include Koelreuteria bipinnata, commonly referred to as the Goldenrain tree, Crataegus phaenopyrum Washington Thorn and Cercis occidentalis, Western Redbud. The Goldenrain tree is a showy, small tree with dark green leaves turning yellow-orange in fall. Papery seed capsules that
resemble small lanterns follow large clusters of yellow summer flowers. Deep rooted, and reaching 20 feet tall and 20 feet wide, this selection is great for patios, specimen or street trees. The Washington Thorn or Crataegus phaenopyrum reaches 25 feet tall and wide. Masses of spring flowers, great orange, scarlet or burgundy fall color, and shiny red-orange fruit in the winter add to this tree’s hardy delight. Plant the Washington thorn where it can thrive. This tree is attractive to bees and birds, so placement near a patio is not advised. Cercis occidentalis, Western redbud is a native to California, Arizona and Utah. Reaching 12 to 20 feet tall and wide, it is shaped as a multi-trunked, small tree or sometimes as a large shrub, adding to its diversity. A brief but brilliant display of magenta flowers in early spring appears before bright green heart-shaped leaves. Seedpods turn reddish purple and are held through winter. New branches are red, while the older bark is smooth and silver-gray colored. Cold winter years actually makes the Western redbud flower better. Finding great shrubs for our clay soils is easier than it sounds. A few great shrubs are the Australian fuchsia, also know as Correa; Cotinus coggygria, commonly called smoke tree; Feijoa sellowiana, pineapple guava and Vitex agnus-castus, the chaste tree. The Correa and Feijoa are the only evergreens. Correa has small tubular flowers that hang gracefully from branch ends in winter. They may be creamy with greenish yellow, rose, scarlet or crimson. Small grayish-green to glossy dark green leaves covers
“W
hen you live in a place as exciting and beautiful as the Clayton Valley area, it’s hard not to be excited for each new day,” Lynne French says. “From the energy of the city to the natural setting of the country, there’s always something to keep me on the go.” Lynne brings this positive energy and love for the Clayton Valley to her long-running career as a real estate professional.
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this full-sun lover. Correa is great planted on slopes or hills where the hanging flowers can be enjoyed early on. The pineapple guava bush is a slow growing, easy-care shrub with glossy green leaves that are silvery-gray beneath. The white flowers with prominent red stamens in spring are dramatic. With some time and some training, the pineapple guava can be pruned to be a small tree.
fuschia. With separate blooming seasons and the evergreen support of the deciduous shrub, this combination will look great on any dry Clayton hillside. Many perennials thrive in dry, hot summers and are successful in clay soils, and most are fairly easy to find. Full-sun garden favorites are Echinacea, purple coneflower (these days they are available in more colors
bloom through October before it runs its dormancy. The selections in the Salvia family are almost endless, with new introductions every year. Some basic family members are the Mexican Sage, reaching 4 feet tall and wide. Gray leaves are topped with long purple spikes July through November. Plant this perennial in the back row and watch it thrive. Clay soil, dry heat and full sun are no
Photo courtesy of Inga Groberman, MyArtClub.com
The lovely Echinacea thrives in hot, dry summers and grows easily in Clayton clay. The Chaste trees are the most noticeable this time of year because they bloom in July. Spikes of lavender blue flowers resemble salvia spires. The Vitex is handsome and very adaptable. This shrub easily becomes a small, multi-trunked tree. It is a great tall accent to evergreen such is the Australian
than just purple), Nepeta, catmint, Salvia, Perovskia, Phlomis and Kniphofia, red-hot poker. Nepeta ranges from medium-low to 30 inches tall. This hardy perennial blooms all summer long. Dusty gray leaves are topped with periwinkle blue flowers. With deadheading, Nepeta has been known to
Always focused on your needs throughout your home purchase or sale, she does whatever it takes to help you make the most of your opportunities. With Lynne and her team as your guides, you can Discover the Possibilities in Clayton Valley real estate. Her intimate knowledge of the area and dedication to your goals ensure your success when buying or selling a home. Give her a call today!
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match for this wonderful plant. Salvia greggii, or autumn sage, is another performer worthy of any Clayton garden. This evergreen perennial reaches 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, with a color for every palate. Tiny, two lipped flowers stack on woody stems in shades of red, pink, lavender, blue, white, salmon
and several bi-colors. Shear this plant to encourage dense growth, and plant in masses for more drama. Perovskia is a hardy perennial whose common name says it all. Often called Russian Sage, this unrelated stunner creates a purple haze of flowers July through September. Another plant that is back row worthy, Russian Sage can reach 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Fragrant leaves add to this perennial’s allure. Phlomis is an early blooming yellow that struts its stuff during the month of May. Whirls of yellow two lipped flowers dance on this large evergreen perennial. Phlomis is often called Jerusalem Sage, again no relation to the Salvia. Gray leaves with a white underside make this shrub-like perennial interesting even when not in bloom. Cut back after bloom to keep plant looking tidy. Kniphofia, or the red-hot pokers, have a not-so-pretty bottom, but a great top. Torchlike flowers can reach 4 inches tall and 3 inches wide. It’s great for hummingbirds, with its tubular clusters of reds, oranges and sometimes yellow. This plant is fabulous in full sun and is ignored by deer. You can grow lots of plants in our dry, hot summer weather. The clay can no longer be an excuse for why some of your plants do not thrive. Do some research, or ask some questions about potential installations. Re-planting because of poor choices costs you more money, time and labor. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at GardenGirl94517@aol.com