JUN 10 Clayton Pioneer 2016

IT’S YOUR PAPER

www.claytonpioneer.com

June 10, 2016

925.672.0500

BBQ class isn’t for chickens

HowarD GELLEr

MAYOR’S CORNER

Farmer’s market, concerts welcome summer in Clayton

Farmers Market – If you’re looking for fresh grown or organic produce, then Clayton’s Farmers Market is the place to be. The market is open 8 a.m.noon Saturdays. All the vendors are friendly and offer treeripened fruits, strawberries and vegetables to taste and buy. It’s a great destination walk to downtown. The market promises to add more vendors as the produce season progresses and as more of Clayton’s residents utilize this treasure trove of healthy produce.

Concerts In The Grove Park – We hope the weather cancellation of the first two concerts scheduled for May 7 and 21 did not inconvenience our loyal patrons. With forecasts of rain and temperatures in the low 60s, our outdoor concerts were not viable. The good news is we were able to reschedule these two great concerts. Retromaniax will be performing July 9, and Larry Lynch and the Mob will be here July 23. Please add these to your Saturday concert schedule.

Clayton Valley Little League – As the school session winds down, I once again congratulate Clayton Valley Little League on a great year for our boys and girls. This year, CVLL had more than 700 youth participating in baseball and softball and has partnered with other Little Leagues throughout Contra Costa to play interleague games. By the time you read this, CVLL will have crowned its division champions who will represent the league in the district

Tamara Steiner

CAROL HERINGTON AND JEANNE BOYD (in red) are barbecue aficionados, and thanks to the KCBS class, now official judges.

The two were among the 60 who attended the class at Endeavor Hall to become certified BBQ judges.

PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

Nationally renowned barbecue judges Kelly McIntosh and his wife Kathleen want to make a few things clear: Good barbecue means not trying to make the cover of Food and Wine magazine. A barbecue

competition isn’t a sauce competition. And no matter how bad something may look, it’s how it tastes that counts.

That was some of the wisdom the San Diego couple dispensed at Clayton’s first barbecue judging class, put on by the Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS). The Clayton Business

See Mayor, page 19

and Community Association (CBCA) sponsored the event, but participants paid to get their coveted barbecue judge pin and the chance to judge competitions worldwide.

The class was held as the CBCA prepares for its annual Rib Cook-off, an event that has had tremendous success

over the past six years. More than 60 wanna-be judges spent Saturday, May 21, at Endeavor Hall, doing the very difficult task of tasting meats prepared by some of KCBS’s finest chefs, including celebrity chef Donna Fong and her “assistant,” Big Tom Sharp of Oakland.

Teachers Naomi Means and Katrina Stortz planted the idea of a school garden at Mt. Diablo Elementary in the fall of 2014. After some setbacks, the stars aligned this spring and the garden sprang to life.

A committee of dedicated administrators, teachers, Parent Faculty Club members, parents and students raised $2,500 plus $8,500 of in-kind donations to bring the project to fruition. Volunteers assembled eight raised beds in a single day this spring. Girl Scout Troop 33199 pulled out dead

rose bushes and spindly lantana in front of the school office, creating a blank slate for the native, drought-tolerant garden.

Local companies dumped donated mulch, wood chips and topsoil, which piled up on the playground and in front of the school. Native plants, seedlings and butterfly-friendly flowers lined the hallways.

On May 22, 120 volunteers gathered to complete the project. “Parents, grandparents and children lined the ground with layers of card-

“Given the packed house, and the enthusiastic response from those who attended, we can say that our 2016 barbecue judging class was a smashing success,” said CBCA president Bob Steiner. “The national recognition and credibility this will lend to our annual CBCA Rib-Cook-off are immeasurable.”

While many students were taking the class to get a leg-up on the competition in the Clayton and other rib cook-offs, others just wanted to hone their barbecue skills.

“I’m a barbecue aficionado,” said Clayton’s Carol Herington. “I travel with family and friends, and we just love barbecue.”

Concord’s Mike Felt said he was taking the class to learn more about the judging process, since he has won several amateur contests. “Every judge has a different palate, so I want to learn what to look for.”

The McIntoshes taught the class what to look for, from presentation to appearance to tenderness to taste. For instance, the class learned that ribs that fell off the bone were undercooked, and that red-leaf

See BBQ Class, page 4

MDES school community nurtures garden project

board and then mulch to cover over 3,000 sq. ft. in a process called sheet mulching,” said Laney ClineKing, who chairs the garden committee for the Parent Faculty Club.

Parent Bill Blackwell donated and installed drip irrigation. Local landscape designer Kelly Marshall planned the garden and guided volunteers.

“Volunteers lined the front garden with ladybug and bum-

See Garden, page 7

GET INVOLVED TO HELP MAKE CLAYTON’S 4TH PICTURE PERFECT

What’s Inside

Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Community Calendar . . . . . .9 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 School News . . . . . . . . . . .15

What’s more American than apple pie? It’s Independence Day in Clayton, of course.

The old-fashioned celebration may not be the reason you moved to Clayton, but it is likely one of the things that makes you glad you’re here.

The day kicks off with a pancake breakfast, 7-10 a.m. at Endeavor Hall. Hosted by the Clayton Valley/Sunrise Rotary Club, breakfast is $7 for adults and $5 for children.

Whether you’re young, or just young at heart, the highlight of the day is the Kidde Parade down Main Street.

Everyone will be decked out in red, white and blue, with streamers and flags waving in the breeze. No advance entry is required – just show up by 10 a.m. at the flagpole with decorated bikes, trikes and scooters. The family pooch is welcome too.

Other groups – from clubs and Scout troops to marching bands – need to enter for the parade by June 27. Fill out a parade application at cityofclayton.org or pick one up at City Hall. Cw Wolfe will be back on the grandstand as grand marshal.

This magical day doesn’t just happen: It takes an army of volunteers to set up, organize and clean up. Volunteers are needed anytime between 6 a.m. and noon on Monday, July 4. Consider it your patriotic duty to lend a hand. Call city clerk Janet Brown to sign up at 925-673-7304 or email jbrown@ci.clayton.ca.us.

Sean Liming

OVERGROWN ROSEBUSHES AND FADING LANTANA IN FRONT OF MDES gave way last month to a community garden that will provide opportunities for food education in the classroom.

Ultimately, the fruits and veggies will find their way to the cafeteria lunch line.

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Around Town

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 10, 2016

Clayton couple recalls friendship with ‘The Champ’

Courtesy of Don Bragg

CLAYTON RESIDENT DON BRAGG, a 1960 olympian, struck up an unlikely friendship with Cassius Clay, and even bloodied The Champ’s nose in a friendly bout.

TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Late summer 1960. Rome.

Two young athletes competing in the Games of the XVII Olympiad would each win gold medals that year. Don Bragg, then 25, set a new world record in pole vault. Cassius Clay, who would later embrace Islam and change his name to Mohammed Ali, was not yet 18 when he stunned the world with a gold medal in light heavyweight boxing. The unlikely pair began a friendship that year that lasted more than five decades.

While their careers would take widely different directions, their friendship was constant. Don Bragg, now 81, is retired and lives in Clayton with his wife, Theresa.

After Ali’s death last week, the two sat down with us to share some very personal and special memories.

In the late 1960s, the Braggs had a summer camp in South Jersey for kids.

Every year Ali would visit the camp for a few days and work with the kids. Don Bragg was always kidding him about “taking him out” in a fight.

He prodded at him every

year, until finally, Ali said “Okay” and they put on the gloves.

“We danced around the ring for a few minutes, poking and swinging until I saw my chance,” Bragg recalled. “I delivered the punch I’d been practicing in my dreams for years.”

“It landed,” Theresa Bragg laughed. “And it bloodied his nose.”

“I scored a first,” Don said.” I was the only one to ever give The Champ a bloody nose.”

Theresa says they could never bridge Ali’s name change. “He was always Cassius to me,” she said. “I couldn’t call him Mohammed.

So, we just always called him ‘The Champ.’”

It was during that same visit that Ali’s wife Belinda, who was expecting twins, went into early labor. Ali had no driver’s license. It had been revoked along with his boxing license when he refused to be inducted into the Army and go to Viet Nam. It was up to Theresa to get him to the hospital in Philadelphia, an hour and a half away.

They set out in her brand new Pontiac station wagon and made great time until they hit the city traffic. “We were crawling and The Champ was frantic,” Theresa recalls. “He begged me to let him drive. He didn’t have a license, but he was insistent.”

Ali took the wheel and promptly went up on the sidewalk where a motorcycle cop roared up beside them. When Theresa rolled down the window, Ali yelled at the cop “My wife is having a baby. I have to

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The surprised cop didn’t hesitate, Theresa said. “I got this, Champ,” he said and got on the radio.

“The waters parted. We had an eight-cycle escort through the Philadelphia traffic. We made it to the hospital in time, but The Champ was a

mess,” she said.

“We sat in the waiting room, just the two of us, and he asked me to pray with him.

I did and it was a very special, private moment that I will never forget. With both God and Allah working for us, Belinda delivered the girls and everyone was fine.”

The ladies (and gents) who lunch

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

CMDTra members “Little Bit,” Janine, “Tony”, Valerie, “Ginger”, Larry, Catie, “romance” and Shelby on “Pistol” tie up at the Clayton Club on a recent May morning.

Take a walk downtown Clayton on any sunny Saturday morning and this might well be a familiar sight.

Riders and their mounts from the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association made a “spontaneous” trip into town from their clubhouse on the mountain above Marsh Creek

Road to visit the Farmers Market and have lunch on a recent May morning.

For some, it was a sandwich at the Center Street Deli. Others grabbed their leafy greens from a low hanging branch.

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Four years ago, Theresa and Don attended The Champ’s 70th birthday party.

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And how their father would always be, in their eyes, “The Champ.”

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June 10, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Blue Star Moms aim to memorialize local graduates who died in war

TONY NOBLE OF CONCORD PAYS HIS RESPECT TO FELLOW MARINE DAVID R. BAKER at arlington National Cemetery. Tony’s mother, Loretta Masnada, is a member of the local Blue Star Moms.

Even before she became a military mom, Loretta Masnada thought about honoring a Concord High student who died in Iraq.

Now with her help, the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms plan to place granite memorials at local high schools to honor fallen warriors. All told, 16 soldiers, Marines and airmen from 11 local high schools died in combat in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Their names will be included on the memorials at Antioch, Berean Christian, Clayton Valley Charter, College Park, Concord, De la Salle, Las Lomas, Liberty, Mt. Diablo, Olympic and Ygnacio Valley high schools.

“The Contra Costa Blue Star Moms are very proud to

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graduate,” Masnada recalled.

A few months ago, she met Bekowsky’s mother, Joan, and decided it was time to do something. She discussed it with club president Carol Prell, and they decided to honor all 16 warriors from the Blue Star Moms area.

“We think a stone memorial will always be there to remind students and all others of those who made the supreme sacrifice,” Masnada said.

Each memorial will cost about $5,000. The group opened a GoFundMe account, and anyone may donate with a credit card. Please visit gofundme.com/23ta7d84.

Checks made out to CCBSM may be mailed to P.O. Box 6379, Concord, CA 94524. Donors should note “high school memorials” in the memo field.

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in Iraq. Masnada’s older son had already graduated from Concord High, and Tony was still a student there. “I felt that something should be done at Concord High to honor this

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be able to bring this honor and remembrance to reality so that generations to come will know of the sacrifices that were made here at home for their freedoms,” said Masnada, care package coordinator for the group.

Masnada’s son, Sgt. Anthony Noble of the U.S. Marine Corps, deployed with L. Cpl. David R. Baker to Afghanistan in 2009. Baker, an Ohio resident, was killed there.

“Tony dedicated a Lafayette cross to David,” Masnada said, referring to the memorial near the BART station. “When Tony later trained in Quantico, we visited Arlington and found David’s grave.”

In 2004, Masnada read in the newspaper that Marine Cpl. Mick Bekowsky, a Concord High graduate, had died

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Page 4

BBQ Class, from page 1

lettuce was an automatic disqualification. There are strict KCBS rules on what can be used as garnish, and while cilantro is in, cabbage and certain lettuces are out.

EVENT

ORGANIZER RORY RICHsays big changes are coming to the annual CBCa rib Cook-off in 2016.

MOND

Judges use a specific scoring system, looking at how the meat is presented, how it how tender it is and how it tastes.

They rate 2 to 9, with 9 being “excellent” and 2 being “inedible.”

“There is no such thing as ‘perfect,’” Kathleen McIntosh said.

And if someone makes a mistake – such as using the wrong garnish or not cutting enough ribs for all the judges – they must be judged as a “1” by all judges.

Traditionally at KCBS competitions, there are tables of six judges, depending on the size of the competition. They judge chicken, ribs, pork and brisket.

Terryl Miller came all the way from Utah to earn her judging degree. “I’m very involved in food, and I just

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wanted to get more involved in barbecue,” she says. She is already a judge at the World Food Championship and won a national Dutch Oven competition.

In addition to learning how difficult it is to cook good barbecue chicken, the students discovered the many roles judges can take at competitions: from table captains to contest representatives, contest organizers and judges’ coordinator. There are also different levels of judges, which require a lot of experience either participating in or judging competitions.

All of this is heralding a new era in Clayton’s own competition. According to Rory Richmond, the event coordinator and the CBCA member who brought the judging class to Clayton, things are going to be different the weekend of Aug. 6.

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June 10, 2016

CCWD loosens up water use restrictions PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

TERRYL MILLER came all the way from Utah to become a certified barbecue contest judge — and taste some good food, too.

the venue is changing from the Clayton Club parking lot to Main Street. “This will allow us an opportunity to have a few beer vendors and some barbecue-related vendors,” Richmond said. There will be an expanded Kiddieland and live music in the Grove Park.

But most importantly, for contestants and barbecue aficionados, there will be two competitions: one for “backyard” competitors, run similarly to past events, and a KCBS “pro” competition for more seasoned and professional barbecue enterprises. In addition, the teams will be cooking both chicken and ribs, where in the past teams have only cooked ribs.

Many of the people who received their judging certificates will be able to volunteer, Richmond noted.

The food being prepared by the competitors won’t be available for public consumption. But there will be food available for purchase, prepared by professional barbecue vendors. More information about the Barbecue Cook-off will be coming in the July issue of the Pioneer.

While the Contra Costa Water District may not be saying the drought is over, they are loosening up conservation efforts, thanks to El Nino’s onslaught this past winter.

Los Vaqueros Reservoir, which is used by CCWD, is filling up and replenishing the water supply that was used in the drought, said CCWD spokesperson Jennifer Allen.

“Certainly the winter rains helped, but we never know what next year will bring,” she says.

But the winter’s rains were enough to have the district eliminate its “Mandatory Conservation Target,” which required residents to conserve a specific percentage of water compared to their 2013 use. It is also eliminating its “Drought Charge” on water bills after June 6.

Gardeners and garden lovers will be happy to know that they are no longer required to limit outdoor watering to two days per week.

Wasteful water uses, like creating excess runoff or watering between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., remain prohibited.

Other water use prohibitions — like washing cars without an off-valve — are still permanently prohibited.

To enforce the prohibitions, CCWD is keeping in place the established fines.

Customers violating water ruse prohibitions first receive a warning. A second violation may result in a $250 fine. A third violation may result in a $500 fine. Further violations may result in suspension of service.

“Luckily, because of the drought, customers have learned to use water wisely,” says Allen. “Conservation efforts that may have seemed hard at first have now become routine.”

She also says that many residents have embraced technological advances — like lowflow toilets — so that conservation is “a way of life” for many residents.

CCWD is still asking customers to monitor for leaks, irregular water landscaping, and to seek out other water-use efficiencies on their website at www.ccwater.com/conserve.

For questions, visit www.ccwater.com or call 925-688-8044.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

PEGGY SPEAR Concord Pioneer

In a long, drawn-out civic process that resembled a soap opera or a bad reality show, the city of Concord unanimously selected Lennar Urban as the master developer for Phase 1 of the Concord Naval Weapons Station Base Reuse.

Only three City Council members were eligible to vote. In statements to the press and the public, council members reiterated that the decision did not mean that Lennar had rights to development of the entire base. Even Phase 1 will be doled out 4060 acres at a time, depending on performance.

Rather than transfer the entire 500 acres of the first phase to Lennar at one time, the city will turn over individual parcels when Lennar is ready to begin development and if the company demonstrates that it has the funds to do the work, posts bonds and secures insurance. But the fact that a developer has finally been tapped closes one door on one of the more bizarre chapters in Concord’s history.

“Perfection is not within the human repertoire,” council member Dan Helix said at the May 11 special meeting.

“Given a project of this magnitude and complexity, it is to be expected that mistakes would be made, and they were.

We forged ahead.”

LENNAR CONCESSIONS Helix is referring to the intense negotiations with Lennar after their chef rival, Catellus Development Corp., was allowed to pull out of the process in February. The term sheet of the project submitted

by Catellus was seen as superior

artist rendering courtesy of Lennar Urban

LENNAR URBAN WILL TAKE THE FIRST STAB AT DEVELOPING THE VAST CONCORD NAVAL WEAPONS STATION after a unanimous May 11 decision by the Concord City Council. The first phase will be developed in 40- to 60-acre parcels with the first construction about two years away. For more information on Lennar’s proposal with the city, visit www.concordreuseproject.org/pdf/proposal/lennar.pdf. to that of Lennar’s, and the city’s base reuse staff worked with Lennar to finalize a broad agreement that satisfied Helix and the other two voting council members. Helix said that in some cases the term sheet exceeded the benefits provided in the Catellus term sheet, which he had originally supported.

Mayor Laura Hoffmeister said that the recent negotiations with Lennar netted the city many benefits that were either in the Catellus term sheet or even better, including agreeing to spend nearly $16 million to widen Willow Pass Road to four lanes and rebuild Willow Pass bridge as a four-lane span.

Lennar also agreed to spend $40 million for affordable housing that would help ensure that 810 units are built.

However, Lennar reduced the $30 million guaranteed payout Concord would receive to

ING COM N SOO

$20 million over 10 years. But once Lennar earns a 20 percent return on its investment, it will share the profits, which could amount to an additional $23 million for the city.

“The city and Lennar have different goals,” Helix said.

“Theirs is to make a profit.

Ours is to serve competing and complex objectives of our diverse population. This has always meant to minimize the risks inherent in the project we are approving.”

Helix was joined in his approval by Hoffmeister and council member Edi Birsan, the only three members of the fivemember board allowed to vote on the master developer selection. Council member Ron Leone lives too close to the base to participate in the voting, and council member Tim Grayson recused himself from voting last fall after allegations of improper

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lobbying by Lennar in the form of contributions to his campaign for state Assembly from businesses the company is associated. That sparked a controversy that delayed the developer selection for more than six months.

ALLEGATIONS OF WRONGDOING

In September, city staff recommended the council select Catellus as the master developer, a move that was approved by the council in closed session. But then the alleged lobbying came to light, and Catellus wrote a letter asking the city to investigate.

About the same time, when the final staff report became public on the master developer selection, the recommendation for Catellus had been pulled – a rare situation in civic decisions like this.

The move led to accusations of Brown Act violations, since it

Page 5

was seen that several council members asked City Manager Valerie Barone to pull the recommendation in a “serial meeting,” unauthorized and unpublicized discussions and communications between council members and city staff. Several council members vehemently deny that it was a violation and say the city manager made the decision on her own.

Meanwhile, in investigating the alleged lobbying on behalf of Lennar, former city attorney Mark Coon said that the terms of agreement did not constitute lobbying – a stance held by Lennar.

However, things got grim after the Oct. 6 suicide of Coon. His interpretation was not made public, since it was incomplete at the time of his death.

An interim attorney was brought in, and the city contracted with an independent counsel to examine the allegations of wrongdoing. The result was the Jenkins Report, put together by Michael Jenkins, an independent attorney of the law firm Jenkins & Hogin.

Jenkins determined there were Brown Act violations by the city in its decision to pull the Catellus recommendation, and that the funds directed to thenMayor Grayson’s Assembly campaign did indeed constitute inappropriate lobbying on the part of Lennar. He suggested Lennar be disqualified from consideration.

Once Grayson realized where the campaign contributions came from, he quickly returned them. But the damage had been done, and he chose to recuse himself from the process.

The four companies that contributed to the Grayson campaign all had ties to Lennar, but Lennar’s president,

Kofi Bonner of Walnut Creek, did not make a contribution.

The Pioneer tried to reach Bonner but was referred to his public relations firm. No one from that firm responded to the request.

Some City Council members deny the contributions were inappropriate under the terms of understanding with the city. “One lawyer says one thing, another says something else,” said Birsan. “It’s up to interpretation.”

LAST DEVELOPER STANDING After the Jenkins report was released and digested by the council, city staff and the public, there was pressure to disqualify Lennar from the running. However, the City Council decided to keep Lennar in to have an opportunity to compare two qualified candidates.

At that point, Catellus asked the city to change their term sheet in case the transfer of the land from the Navy took more than three years. It began a snowball of correspondence that had Catellus questioning the city’s commitment to them as a viable candidate, despite support by neighbors and at least one council member – Helix.

After the city deemed the Catellus change was not in the city best interest, Catellus withdrew itself from the running, and only one master developer remained: the much maligned Lennar.

Now the process begins on a plan that ultimately will see up to 12,272 housing units and 6.1 million sq. ft. of commercial space on about 2,300 acres of the former military base.

The Navy is scheduled to begin transferring land to the city in the spring of 2017.

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Negotiation is key to a successful home purchase

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Q. As a homebuyer, what are some negotiating tips I should use?

A. To enhance your negotiating position, learn the sellers’ motivation. Sellers who must move quickly due to a job transfer, divorce or contract on another home are more inclined to accept a lower price to speed the process along.

Remember that the listing or asking price is what the seller would like to receive for the home. It is not necessarily what the seller will accept. It’s important to understand a home’s value. Before you make an offer, check recent sales and listing prices of comparable neighborhood homes and compare them to the asking price.

Also find out if the seller is going to receive more offers than yours. In that case, you will have to figure out if you

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want to or are able to offer over the asking price. Try to find out how many offers are in the running. Remember that the terms you are offering could be as important as the offering price.

Other tips are: Be flexible.

Never say “take it or leave it” because that can sour negotiations and ruin the deal. Don’t show your hand or reveal your next step. Each time you increase your offering price, ask for something in return – such as repairs, appliances, even lawn furniture. If you plan to pay cash or have a tentative loan commitment rather than loan pre-approval, use your strong financial position as a negotiating tool.

And finally, don’t let emotions such as pride, fear, love and anger get in the way of negotiating the best deal. Leave irrational feelings at home.

explained to you.

You can save money by having a higher deductible on your policy. Most insurance companies will start offering discounts at a $500 deductible.

The discount increases as the deductible goes up, although many mortgage companies will not allow you to exceed a $1,000 deductible. Check with your lender before deciding.

Ask about discounts for which you may be eligible if you have an alarm that reports to a central system, for example, or if you are a senior citizen. A multi-policy discount may save you money if, for example, you combine your home and auto insurance with the same company.

It is a good idea to review your policy with your agent every three years to be sure your coverage is still adequate.

Q. What is something I might overlook when purchasing a home?

A. Insurance is something you might not think of right away, so here are some tips for

buying homeowner’s insurance.

Since lenders as well as title/escrow companies require proof of homeowner insurance before closing, a wise home buyer will begin shopping for it as soon as the purchase offer is accepted. Before you contact an agent, know when the home was built, the square footage and the roof type. Find out the age of the plumbing and electrical, if possible, and be prepared to describe the home’s location.

Most agents use a cost estimator to determine cost replacement estimates.

Remember that you are buying insurance for the home only, and not for the land.

Most policies today designate a percentage over the insured amount to cover replacement costs, which may increase over time due to inflation. Many companies recommend 125 percent replacement cost coverage. Some agents may recommend even a higher percentage for replacement coverage, but that is your decision once the particulars are

The drought weakens a tree, making it more susceptible to bark beetle invasions. If a tree is attacked during warm months, the beetles can kill it in two to four weeks. Then the tree rots, becomes unstable and eventually it can fall.

Varieties of pine and oak have died in the greatest numbers throughout the state, although oaks have failed primarily due to drought.

Removing dead trees early prevents future fires and additional beetle infestations. At this stage, Cal Fire and others within the field recommend

that the owner consult a licensed arborist or professional forester for removal.

Cal Fire has taken preventative steps to meet the challenges for this fire season, beginning by hiring additional staff. This enables them to place more personnel on fire engines and will provide needed relief for tired firefighters in the field. The fire staff also has begun “fuel modification” by thinning, moving and removing vegetation, along with the removal and chipping of dead trees.

The East Bay Parks District

has implemented goat grazing within Contra Costa County.

Cheryl Miller, executive coordinator of the Diablo Fire Safe Council, is also launching a goat-grazing project at the San Damiano Retreat Center in Danville.

Clearing brush, removing trees and goat grazing are forms of fuel reduction that can occur through neighborhoods groups. To learn how to organize cost-share funding of a fuel reduction project in your neighborhood, contact Cheryl Miller at 510-282-1265 or dfscmiller@comcast.net.

Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

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Keeping yards safe from fire

The main reason homes are destroyed during wildfires is that fire embers come into contact with flammable materials. Californians are expected to clear flammable vegetation on their property within 100 feet of house and structures.

“The most common mistake homeowners make is they do their weed whacking on hot, windy days,” Cal Fire’s Mike Mariucci notes.

He recommends trimming and weed whacking early in the season, when the humidity is about 30 percent and the outdoor temperature is less than 80 degrees. In other times of the year, try to do cleanup work in the morning.

• If storage options are limited to the deck, install non-combustible siding around the deck’s perimeter.

• Caulk openings along the top or bottom of wall siding or around windows where gaps may allow embers to enter the home.

• Screen vents under eaves and at the foundation to thwart fire entry.

• Post the house address so that it’s clearly visible from the street.

• Make sure emergency vehicles have access to gate, fences and driveways.

• If a wildfire threatens, collect deck furniture, toys, other combustible items and store inside.

For fire safety, homeowners also should: For more information, visit www.diablofire• Sweep walkways, patios and decks to re- safe.org/preventingwildfireshouse.html, move leaves, needles and other com- www.readyforwildfire.org or www.fire.ca.gov. bustible material.

June 10, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com City of Clayton now accepting applications for

PLANNING COMMISSION

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

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

C ORRESPONDENTS : Kara Navolio, John T. Miller, Jennifer Leischer

We remember Jill Bedecarré -

PIONEER INFO CONTACT US

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

Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send School News to

schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you.

Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for

length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion.

Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com.

Letters must be submitted via E-mail.

CIRCULATION as of Sept. 2014 Total circulation of the Clayton Pioneer is 5,500 to ZIP code 94517, all delivered by US Mail to homes, businesses and post office boxes. We cannot start or stop delivery to individual addresses. This must be done directly through the Post Office.

The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,500 in Concord by carrier. Papers are delivered once a month on a Friday morning near the end of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com.

If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please call us or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon.

SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.

Three (3) Offices Office Term: July 2016 - June 2018

The Planning Commission is comprised of five (5) Clayton residents who are appointed by the City Council for two-year overlapping terms of office. The Planning Commission advises the City Council on land use matters, including General Plan amendments and Zoning Ordinance amendments. The Commission also makes decisions on development projects such as Site Plan Review Permits, Use Permits, Subdivisions, and Variances. Planning Commission meetings are open to the public and its decisions may be appealed to the City Council.

• The Planning Commission meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 pm, in Hoyer Hall at Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road.

• Planning Commissioners presently receive a monthly stipend of $120.

• An applicant must be 18 years of age, a registered voter and a resident of Clayton.

• There are three (3) Commission office terms expiring on June 30, 2016.

• Applications filed are a public record. On appointment, each Commissioner must file a state-required Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) which document is also a public record. applications may be obtained: In person: Clayton City Hall 6000 Heritage Trail By mail:Call City offices at (925) 673-7300 E-mail: jbrown@ci.clayton.ca.us City’s web site: www.ci.clayton.ca.us

Interested citizens are invited to return a completed application to the City Clerk by 5pm, Wed., June 15.

Individual interview of each applicant will be conducted by the full City Council on Tues., June 21 and are open to the public.

Final appointments are expected to be made later that same evening at the City Council’s regular public meeting.

Clayton Fair Properties

She said there is enormous support for the garden from teachers and students alike.

“Over 10 classes were in the garden just last week. And two-thirds of the teachers want to do food tasting in their class and plan to consume the edibles.”

The school has asked the Clayton Business & Community Association for $10,000 for teacher training, curriculum and a part-time garden coordinator so that teachers can teach science in the garden.

“As teachers transition into teaching the Next Generation Science Standards, they will need to adjust their curriculum,” Cline-King said. “Using the garden as a teaching tool to teach NGSS is the goal.”

The project aims to provide food education with high impact, starting small with harvesting and classroom tastings – but ultimately serving the edibles in the cafeteria. A second goal is for the garden to be a living laboratory where

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Garden, from page 1

blebee stones painted by MDE students,” Cline-King said. “Children created butterfly stepping stones, painted plywood flowers and tasted vegetables from the Clayton farmers market before planting tomatoes, as well as green bean seedlings and pumpkins.”

The mission of the MDE garden is to enrich learning with hands-on, project-based math and science lessons, as well as nutrition education.

“But it is also to build community and work together, values that are at the heart of the city of Clayton,” ClineKing noted.

The raised beds are primarily for edibles, with one for each grade level – plus an extra bed being used for tomatoes that will be shared by everyone. “Until we can expand curriculum-based gardens, some of the teachers that focus heavily on butterflies in their curriculum wanted to plant butterfly flowers in their beds,” Cline-King said.

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SIENNA FERRAIOLO, LEFT, AND LUCIA FERRAIOLO create stepping stones for the school garden.

children learn science and math through hands-on activity. “It is research-based, engaging and ultimately more fun for students and teachers,” Cline-King added.

Over the summer, garden committee members will do bi-weekly maintenance. And the Clayton Community School on campus will be integrating the garden into its summer curriculum. Pending district approval, the garden

will be open for a lunch so community members can come in to harvest and socialize.

In the fall, the school will begin a master planning process to discuss greening the rest of the schoolyard and to obtain student, parent and community input on what to grow, how to use the edibles and how to move forward with the educational goals.

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Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 10, 2016

Citizens can help themselves by making smart choices

CHIEF’S BEAT

This week, I will address some reoccurring issues with the hope that residents continue to be responsible about our families, property and pets.

Dogs continue to be left unattended in vehicles, putting them at risk. If it’s 95 degrees outside, it’s 113 in the vehicle – even if the windows are cracked open. Leaving a pet in a car may also put the owner at risk of going to jail. Please be

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still being made to residents regarding money owed to the IRS. Students who have outstanding loans are also getting calls, with the caller saying that money needs to be paid to the IRS. The IRS does not operate this way. If you have any doubts, contact the local IRS office.

The Clayton Station continues to have quality of life issues as it pertains to respecting citizens and property. We have seen an increase in theft at local businesses, and we have received complaints from citizens and business owners about the activities of certain individuals who have a tenden-

cy to congregate at that location. This activity has been occurring for years, but certain situations are happening more frequently.

I am sensitive to their situation, and we have been trying to provide them with support through county services. However, they are not willing to

Contra Costa County residents are fortunate to be surrounded by scenic landscape and miles of open space.

These outdoor spaces provide charming backdrops to communities as well as opportunities for hiking, biking and nature walks.

I believe it’s important that residents of District IV have access to family-friendly outdoor space, which is why I am supporting the effort to construct a trail near Marsh Creek.

This multi-use trail would connect Clayton and Brentwood, a nearly 17-mile stretch.

As a member of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority, I often hear from constituents advocating for new bike routes and safer paths.

The growth in the Bay Area

has increased the need for designated bike and walking paths across the region.

Those who want to experience the beautiful scenery of Marsh Creek must use Marsh Creek Road, a major thoroughfare that can be dangerous for bike and foot traffic. This new trail would provide a safe and enjoyable alternative. It would serve as a transportation corridor and would support various forms of non-motorized travel, including pedestrian, equestrian and bicycle users.

In crafting this proposal, it was important to me that the trail encourages and accommodates a multitude of user groups. I hope to one day see both serious cycling teams and families walking on the Marsh Creek Trail. Ideally, once the

trail and adjacent paths are completed, there will be a continuous non-motorized trail from downtown Concord to Oakley.

The project is in the early development stages. My colleague Mary Piepho and I are leading the effort and have directed county staff to proceed with planning and identifying potential funding sources. The creation of the trail would require partnerships with numerous agencies and stakeholders, including some private property owners.

This project would be done in conjunction with the Marsh Creek restoration project, a funded project aimed at creating habitat and enhancing flood protection around Marsh Creek. The trail would be con-

New Marsh Creek trail would connect Clayton, Brentwood

Pets

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structed in a sensitive manner that reflects the scenic and natural resources of the area.

I am confident that county residents will share in my enthusiasm for this project and the quality of life benefit it would provide for our region.

For more information, sign up for my newsletter at www.cccounty.us/mitchoff.

Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to karen.mitchoff@bos.cccounty.us

Everyone’s happier when dogs say the magic word

you can begin to ask your dog to do this behavior on cue as a way of saying “please” before getting something he wants.

Once you have given the cue, wait to give the dog what he wants until he performs the behavior. If he doesn’t do the behavior, ignore him and walk away. Then turn back toward him, be sure you have his attention and ask again. When your dog offers you the behav-

ior, give him his reward.

This way, your dog learns a polite way to interact with people. For pushy dogs who are always asking for attention, say by nudging or barking, it allows you to use the desired attention as a reason for the dog to say “please.” Meanwhile, fearful dogs can create a sense of control of their environment, which translates to building confidence and trust in people.

Did your parents ever tell you to say “please” when teaching you how to be polite with adults and peers. It turns out our dogs aren’t that different – they can also benefit from learning to say “please.”

Some trainers call this the “No Such Thing as a Free Lunch” program, while others call it the “People Empowerment Program.” However you want to refer to it, it is widely used among dog trainers and behaviorists to help set people and their dogs up for success.

In any home, dogs are more appreciated as family members when they have good manners.

Dogs are social creatures, but they live more successfully with us when they understand our rules and expectations. We can teach them by rewarding them with things they adore: affection, exercise, treats, toys – whatever makes your dog’s tail wag.

To start, teach your dog a behavior or two that he can perform on cue. A simple “sit” MARRIOT or “down” will work. Or train the dog to look at you in One-year-old Marriot is a daily walk, some training to response to calling his name.

Once your dog has learned spunky young lady that would show you how smart she is, a cue in a variety of conditions, love to be your partner for a then settle in for some serious cuddles and lap time. Marriott has a positive history with other dogs. We recommend Marriott take a Basic Manners class where she can learn polite ways of seeking creature comforts in life. She currently weighs 11 pounds.

The adoption fee for dogs is $250 and includes a discount on the first six-week session of a manners class.

Start by making a list of the things your dog likes – eating meals, lying on the couch, walking through doors, opening the cookie jar, playing with a toy. From now on, ask him to say “please” for everything he wants.

Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 2561ARF (1273)

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responsible. If you have any questions regarding pets in a vehicle, call Contra Costa County Animal Services at 925-335-8300.

Meanwhile, graduation is coming and it’s important to celebrate – but again be responsible. Making the right decisions is part of becoming an adult, and our children need to be reminded that there are consequences for their actions.

Have fun and enjoy the moment, but be careful.

As residents make plans for vacations, remember to secure your home and either stop your mail or have a trusted person collect it for you. We continue to have theft of mail, and calls are coming in regarding credit card fraud and identity theft. We provide vacation house checks, so please call the Police Department to arrange.

Fraudulent phone calls are

Design • Installation • Maintenance Commercial & Residential • 925-381-3757

Bronn, also 1 year old, is ever-so-handsome, and sweet to boot! He loves attention, and playtime with wands. He will be a fun, playful companion. Bronn prefers to be the only cat in the home. He is

BRONN

suitable for a first time cat guardian.

The adoption fee for a cat is $75.

Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday.

Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 2561ARF.

June 10, 2016

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6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440 Entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

June 10, 11........................................Crossman Country June 17, 18 .................................................Desert Moon June 24, 25 ...............................................Blues Healers July 1, 2..........................................................The Relyks

Karaoke Mon. & Wed. nights Open Mic Thur. nights, 8-11 pm

www.claytonclubsaloon.com

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Clayton Community Calendar

Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 7/7/16

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JUNE 29 FOR THE JULY 8 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

IN CLAYTON

Saturdays, thru Sept. 24, except Sept. 3 Farmers’ Market

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown Clayton. pcfma.org.

June 13 Clayton Classic

Golf tournament sponsored by CBCA. 12 p.m. shotgun start.

Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. https://claytoncbca.org. 672-2272.

June 18, July 2 Saturday Concerts in the Grove

6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. cityofclayton.org. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3.

June 22, July 6 Wednesday Classic Car and Concerts in the Grove

Car show, 6 – 8 p.m. Concert, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. cityofclayton.org. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3.

July 4 Pancake Breakfast and Parade

The day begins with the Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotary pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. at Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., followed by the parade down Main Street at 10 a.m. Breakfast: $7 adults; $5 kids. No registration for Kiddie Parade. Register for main parade at cityofclayton.org.

July 11 – 27 Summer Stage 2016

Clayton Theatre Company’s drama camp for children ages 6 – 16. Camp covers acting, singing and dancing and culminates in a performance of “A Trip Down Broadway, Jr.” 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. For fees and registration, go to claytontheatrecompany.com.

Mondays Off the Grid

IN CONCORD

Rotating lineup of food trucks. 5 – 9 p.m. 2151 Salvio Street. offthegridsf.com.

Tuesdays Farmers’ Market

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

Tuesday Nights in July Blues Series

Some of the best blues in the Bay Area. July 5, Annie Sampson.

6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free. cityofconcord.org.

Thursdays Music and Market

Thursday night live music and farmers’ market. Music: June 16, The David Correa Group; June 23, The Jean Genies David Bowie Tribute; June 30, Kingsborough; July 7, Bay Bridge Heat. Market 4 – 8 p.m.; music 6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.

3rd Sundays Antique Faire

Antiques, collectibles, handmade arts and crafts. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free admission. concordantiquefaire.com.

On Sale Now Concerts

The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road. livenation.com. Concert schedule for 2016: June 12, Spirit West Coast, 4 p.m.

June 13, Slipknot, 6:30 p.m.

July 9, Bryan Adams, 8 p.m.

July 12, Taste of Chaos, 6:30 p.m.

July 28, Sublime, 6:35 p.m.

July 30, New Edition, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 19, Disturbed, 6:30 p.m.

Aug. 27, Outcry Tour, 6 p.m.

Aug. 28, Snoop Dogg, 7 p.m.

Sept. 10, Fifth Harmony, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18, Daryl Hall and John Oates, 7 p.m.

June 11 Concord Museum and Event Center

Docent-led walk through of restoration progress on former Masonic Temple. 1, 2 and 3 p.m. 1928 Clayton Road, Concord.

Free; donations requested. concordhistorical.org.

June 13 Stroke Support Group

Speaker: Anne Sigmon. Topic: Yes you can travel after a stroke. 7 – 9 p.m. Concord 1 Room, John Muir Medical Center, Concord Campus, 2540 East St., Concord. Free. Contact Ann Dzuna 3766218.

June 14 Bright Ideas Film Festival

June 18 “The Songs and Stories of Neil Diamond”

July 4 Celebration

June 19 “The Trials of Alice in Wonderland”

July 5 Cool Concord Cars

June 24 – 26 “C.S. Lewis Onstage: The Most Reluctant Convert”

Screening of winning entries. 7 p.m. Brenden Theatres, 1985 Wil- Performed by Jack Wright and the Heartlight Band. 7 p.m. Calilow Pass Road, Concord. Free. filmfreeway.com/festival/brightfornia Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$25. pittsideasfilmfestival. burgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Pancake breakfast, Stars and Stripes 5K fun run/walk, parade, festival, fireworks. Events start at 7 a.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. $30 race; $5 breakfast. For more details, go to starsandstripesrun.com and concordjuly4th.com.

Presented by Puppets of Praise with St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.

2:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Annual car show on opening night of Tuesday Night Blues. 5:30 – Presented by Fellowship for Performing Arts. Lesher Center for the 7:30 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free. cityofArts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $34-$94. concord.org. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

ON AND AROUND THE MOUNTAIN

June 25 Comedy

June 11 Sunset Walk

June 26 “Reminisce”

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve programs are available for registration through ebparks.org. Parking fees may apply. For additional information, contact Black Diamond Visitor Center at (510) 544-2750 or bdvisit@ebparks.org.

Admire vistas over the valley and the sunset over Mount Diablo. 7:15 – 9:15 p.m. Meet at end of Somersville Road.

June 18 A Walk Through the Past

Look for signs of old Somersville, a once-thriving, coal mining town. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at end of Somersville Road.

June 19 Summer’s Gold

Performed by Erik “Awesome” Alston. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10-$15. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

A Bharatanatyam dance concert presented by Nava Dance Theatre. 5:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17.75. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

July 2 “Kalimba”

Tribute to Earth, Wind and Fire. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $15-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.

FUNDRAISERS

Find golden sunshine, hills, eagles and views on this hearty hike. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at Round Valley Staging Area.

2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast

June 12 Snakes Alive

June 17 – 18 “Florence Nightingale: Live!”

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

Meet and hold one of many beneficial and harmless snakes.

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Museum.

June 18 Summer Solstice Saunter

Evening hike on Mount Diablo. 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Reservations required: sweettrails00@gmail.com or ken_lavin@hotmail.com.

June 21 Night Hike Adventure

Look for nighttime critters like bats, owls and raccoons. 7:30 – 10 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center.

June 24, July 1 Common Poorwill Bird Walk

Hike near upper portion of White Canyon listening for the common poorwill and local owls. 7 – 10:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Reservations required: blkittiwake@yahoo.com.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Thru June 12 “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

Presented by Crosslight Theater. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Thru June 25 “Rock of Ages”

Musical featuring big bands, big egos and even bigger hair.

Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $37$65. centerrep.org. 943-7469.

June 11 “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”

Presented by Ligioso Ballet Studio. 6:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17.50. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

June 12 Demonstration

Classroom work from students of The Ballet School. 11 a.m., 2 and 5 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $27. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

June 12 – July 2 Showcase

Classical dance and music of South India presented by Kalanjali Dances of India. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Free. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

June 18 Summer Piano Recital

Presented by The Ballet School. 2:15 and 5:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org.

Starring Dr. Candy Campbell; benefitting Onstage Theatre. 8 p.m. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $20. live@campbelltheater.com. 518-3277.

June 27 Baking for a Cure

Bake sale for Relay For Life Clayton. 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Starbucks, Clayton Station. relayforlife.org/claytonca.

July 16 Relay For Life Concord

American Cancer Society fundraiser. Join a team or walk as an individual. Activities for participants and spectators. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Register at relayforlife.org/concordca.

AT THE LIBRARY

The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call 673-0659.

June 13, 27: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m.

June 13: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m.

June 15: Living History Lessons with Vietnam Veterans, 6:30 p.m.

June 27: Movie Night, 7 p.m.

The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or 6465455.

June June June June June

13: Movie Monday, 7 p.m.

16: Concord Book Club, 6:30 p.m.

18, July 9: AARP Free Tax Assistance, 10 a.m.

20: Dungeons and Dragons, 5 p.m.

21, 23, 24, 28, 30; July 1, 5, 7, 8: Lunch at the Library, 1 p.m.

June 27: LEGO in the Library, 7 p.m.

July 7: Origami, 4 p.m.

GOVERNMENT

1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council

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

2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission

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

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

Sports

Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 10, 2016

State, NCS competitions close out sports schedule JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

De La Salle High completed a sweep of the three major 2015-16 sports championships at North Coast Section when the Spartans baseball team beat upstart Castro Valley in the section finals last Saturday on the same day as the state track and field meet in blazing hot Clovis rang to a close the California high school sports calendar. DLS also were NCS football and basketball champs, in addition to golf, track and field, volleyball and wrestling title winners.

Baseball — De La Salle avenged a loss in last year’s NCS championship game to College Park 17-1 in this spring’s semi-finals and then the top-seeded Spartans defeated 14th rated Castro Valley 7-3 in the finals to claim another Section title. It was the Spartans third baseball crown in five years and they’ve been in the NCS DI title game six years running.

This league season may have been the closest ever with defending DVAL and NCS champion College Park locked in a season-long battle with Clayton Valley Charter and Northgate. The Broncos (10-2) swept Concord in the final week of the season to take the DVAL crown with CV and CP tied for second, one game behind.

Northgate was seeded ninth but went all the way to the NCS Division II championship game before losing 4-2 to Livermore last Saturday.

CVCHS Eagles were a seventh seed in their 18th straight NCS appearance but fell to Heritage in the DI quarterfinals.

Softball — Alhambra of

Martinez won a third straight NCS championship and along the way the Martinez power eliminated DVAL co-champ Concord in the quarterfinals and Carondelet in the semis.

Clayton Valley Charter swept a pair of one-run games from Concord in the first week of the season and it proved decisive as the two local rivals tied at 10-2 in the final DVAL standings with the Eagles winning the tie-breaker after CVCHS was upended by thirdplace College Park in their final league game, dropping them into the tie. The Eagles lost their NCS opener to Liberty.

Swimming & Diving — CVCHS boys were top local finishers at the NCS meet in Concord taking seventh place, followed immediately by De La Salle and Northgate. On the girls side Carondelet was third and Northgate 12th.

At the second CIF State Championships. DLS boys were 14th, the Broncos 38th and CVCHS 49th. The Eagles points were scored by their 200-meter freestyle relay of Anthony Vines, Niklas Weigelt, Ryan Levy and Cal Brown.

Forest White was fourth in the 100 backstroke and fifth in 200 free to help the Spartans, who also were 12th in the 400 free relay.

Carondelet’s third-place NCS finish featured two record-breaking performances from Madelyn Murphy in the 50 and 100 freestyle and also anchoring the Cougars 200 free relay. Carondelet owns nine of the 11 all-time NCS swimming records.

Track & Field — Hurdler Jonathan Harvey of De La Salle was eight in the 300 hurdles as last weekend’s CIF State Meet. Harvey had swept both

Sean Liming

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER BOYS TRACK AND FIELD TEAM swept the DVaL dual meet and league meet championships and then took second to De La Salle at the North Coast Section Tri-Valley meet. The Eagles also were seventh at the NCS Meet of Champions. Sprinter Jordan Velasquez (left) won the 100 meters at DVaL, NCS Tri-Valley and NCS MoC before finishing 14th at the CIF State Meet last weekend. The Eagles 4x100 relay was first in league, second at NCS area and MoC meets. Jake King (right) took second in the discus and first in the shot put at the DVaL meet as the Eagles dominated the weight events. Teammate Jack Fouts swapped places with King in the two boys events while his sister Kiersten Fouts swept the two girls DVaL gold medals.

hurdles the NCS Tri-Valley meet and won the 300 at the NCS Meet of Championships, where Clayton Valley Charter’s Jordan Velasquez won the 100 meters to go with his league and Tri-Valley titles.

DLS won the boys team titles at the NCS Tri-Valley and

MOC meets with Clayton Valley second at Tri-Valley and seventh at MOC. Carondelet was second at Tri-Valley and fourth at MOC girls.

The Spartans had the winning 4x100-meter relay and double hurdles champ Jonathan Harvey to take the

Tri-Valley crown. Clayton Valley Charter won the long jump with Brandon Abon, among their seven Meet of Champions boys qualifiers.

Carondelet came up five points short of winning the Tri-Valley girls meet with workhorse Julianna Ruotolo

taking top three finishes in three events and the Cougar s sweeping both relays.

Clayton Valley Charter won the boys and Northgate the girls DVAL regular-season and championship meet titles.

See NCS, page 13

Local soccer teams earn hardware at 3 tournaments

Photo courtesy Diablo FC

Photo courtesy MDSa

MDSA ARSENAL held four opponents to a total of two goals to win the under 12 boys division at Pacifica Fog Classic, stringing together wins over teams from Foster City, Mountain View and Davis. arsenal includes, front row from left, Killian Pollock, Miles Davis, Jake Solis, Kyle Pacak, Titis Bishop, alex walker, Cristian Galvan; back row, coach Jason Bishop, Shawn Canada, Keegan Boustead, alex Hockenbery, Daniel Calles, Garrett alton, austin Basinger and coach Jorge Calles.

DIABLO FC 03 BLUE GIRLS lost 2-1 to NorCal league rivals Santa rosa United in the championship game of the U14 red division at Concord Cup XXIII. Playing up one year the newly restructured team (due to new national age group rules) tied an older Impact 02G Black team 1-1, drew with west Valley Elite FC 0-0 and beat North Marin 6-0 in the lead up to the finale. Diablo FC 03 Blue includes, front row from left, rylee Chilson, Grace Turner; middle row, audrey orr, Sophia Galicia, annie Pauline, alanis alvarez, Lauren wickham; back row, coach Brandon Enriquez, annika Tuohey, Caitlyn Kluzek, Kylie Nielsen, Kira Baker, Leona Theunissen, yazmin ramos, Clarisa Granados, Taylor Davis, Lily wilcox and coach Lyndy Enriquez. Not pictured Carly Urteaga.

Photo courtesy MDSa

Photo courtesy Diablo FC

DIABLO FC 98 BLUE didn’t lose a game but two ties dropped them to second place in a round robin under 19 boys bracket at Concord Cup XXIII. The local team defeated Concord United 3-1 and then had a pair of 2-2 draws. The team includes, from left, coach Elías Haddad, abisai Padilla, Nicolas Krucker, Ángel Telleira, william reutter, Moises Limon, Evan Bowman, Max Schmidtbauer, Bryden Connel, Jorge Becerra, Jacob Haddad, Byron rodriguez, Milad Dehghan, anthony Maytum and coach Eli Padilla.

MDSA REBELS U10 GIRLS SOCCER TEAM just wrapped up a busy spring season with a second place finish at the Davis world Cup. The girls earlier won Concord Cup XXIII, second also at the Comstock Shoot-out in Carson City and the aySo area Select Cup plus third in the San Jose President’s Cup. The rebels include, front row from left, Julia Pauline, Julia Lovelace, Emery Stephens, Layla Solis, Gabrielle Vela; back row, coach Matt Stephens, Natalya Modawar, Jessica Nielsen, Ellie aragon, anja Perreira, Jackie Contreras and coach Dylan Perreira.

Sports

June 10, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Athlete Spotlight

Jessica Johnson Grade: Senior School: CVCHS Sport: Track & Field

Recent CVCHS graduate Jessica Johnson's sport life revolves around track. Johnson was inspired to start running at seven-years-old after she attended her cousin's track meet.

Amazed by the sport itself, Johnson set out to join the CYO team at St. Perpetua in Lafayette. She says, "Well, I love running in general, but being a part of a team, especially my team, was the best thing I’ve ever experienced." After running in CYO, Johnson decided to join

the track team at Clayton Valley Charter. Johnson ran on the Eagles league champion 4x100 and 4x400 relays and individually competed in the 200 (at DVAL) and 400 meters as her team won the overall league championship.

She was a track team captain as a senior.

"Staying on track and focusing on getting better every day," is what Johnson believes to be the biggest challenge she faced as an athlete. Not only has Johnson received multiple medals for plac-

ing at high school level meets, she has also received the Most Inspirational Award and the prestigious Eagle Honor Award. Despite these awards, Johnson considers her greatest accomplishment in track was growing as a runner and as part of a team. She says, "[It's] really learning what it takes to give 110% every time you step on a track." As for the future, Johnson plans on running for DVC's track team and hopefully in the future for a four-year university she'll attend to major in business. This summer, Johnson also plans to run for an all-year track team. When she's not running, Johnson tutors in her spare time.

CVCHS student journalist Celine Herrera wrote this Spotlight.

The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Jessica and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.

Clayton Valley, local schools name athletes of the year

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER Male Athlete of the Year: Anthony Vines accumulated nine varsity letters (2 water polo, 3 soccer and 4 swimming) during his time at CVCHS. He was all-Diablo Valley Athletic League for four years in swimming and second team all-league in water polo last fall. He clocked Top 10 alltime in four different swimming events and was a threetime Eagles varsity swimming captain. Also a water polo captain last fall. Had a 4.24 GPA while being involved in numerous school, community and church activities.

CLAIRE OLSON CVCHS FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Female Athlete of the Year: Claire Olson was twotime North Coast Section performer in cross country and was CVCHS team captain in cross country and track. She won DVAL frosh/soph 1600 meters as a freshman and was second in frosh/soph cross country as a sophomore. In addition to academics (4.26 GPA) and athletics, Olson was a member of Team Blue, regularly organizing beach cleanups throughout the Bay Area.

Irvine Scholar Award (Combination of athletics and academics): Ryan Levy was varsity swimming and water polo for four years each.

He was two-time swim captain and 2015 MVP winning numerous all-league honors in both sports. Levy, who is head-

Jay Bedecarré

ANTHONY VINES CVCHS MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ed to US Santa Barbara in the fall, is a CVCHS Top 10 alltime swimmer in six different events. Most improved water polo player as a freshman, sophomore and junior. First place in 50 freestyle this spring at DVALs. Scholar athlete all four years in both swimming and water polo, completing his high school career with a 4.33 GPA.

BEREAN CHRISTIAN Female Athlete of the Year: Emily Dutton was first team all-league in soccer. She was an NCS meet of Champions qualifier in the 4x100 relay as the Berean girls quartet broke the school record. She also graduated with honors and was one of the school yearbook editors.

Male Athlete of the Year: Jack Chillemi was first team all-TCAL for the historic NCS finalist Eagles football team last fall. Also a DVAL wrestling champion who finished seventh at the NCS wrestling championships at 195 pounds.

CARONDELET Senior Athlete of the Year: Kaylie Collins of Clayton was selected East Bay girls soccer player of the year. The Cougars goalkeeper, who is headed to USC this fall, had 10 clean sheets and 112 saves while her team went undefeat-

Jay Bedecarré

KAYLIE COLLINS CARONDELET ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Joern weigelt

ed all the way to overtime of the NCS championship game before they were upset by East Bay Athletic League rival San Ramon Valley.

Student Athlete of the Year: Angela Bagasbas. This award is presented to the most outstanding athlete of the 2015-2016 school year. She is a confident and accomplished young woman who consistently pursues the highest levels of excellence. She is a leader on and off the playing field, and her clear sense of purpose has helped to grow the program and the sport itself.

Scholar Athlete of the Year: Madelyn Murphy set two individual and one relay record at this spring’s North Coast Section championship meet in Concord. She set Section marks in the 50- and 100meter freestyle and also was part of a record-breaking 200 free relay for the Cougars. As a freshman in 2013 was on the NCS 400 free relay record-setters. The Cal-bound swimmer is gearing up for the US Olympic Trials beginning June 26.

DE LA SALLE Athlete of the Year: Devin Asiasi. The Michiganbound football standout helped the Spartans to another State CIF football championship last December. The tight end and defensive end was first-team all-EBAL, allEast Bay and all-State while being one of the most soughtafter recruits in America.

Athlete of the Year: Jonathan Harvey. A State Meet finalist in the 110 high hurdles last week, Harvey compiled top NCS times in both the 110 and 300 hurdles this year. He won league and section titles in the 300 hurdles for two years and was NCS 110HH winner this year. He was also the second leading receiver for the State Champion football team while scoring four touchdowns.

Bob Ralston wins two coach of the year awards after leading Cal State East Bay back to NCAA baseball tournament Photo by Kelley Cox courtesy CSUEB athletic Communications

Long-time former Clayton Valley High School baseball coach Bob Ralston is having quite a fifth season in charge of the Cal State East Bay baseball team, which is returning to the NCAA Division II tournament for the first time since 1977 after receiving at at-large berth. The Pioneers won 33 games for the first time in program history and Ralston has been named CCAA Coach of the Year and West Region Coach of the Year by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, both of which are firsts for Pioneer baseball. CSUEB has now posted three 30-win seasons in the past four years, the first time that’s happened in program history. Ralston coached Clayton Valley a total of 11 seasons over two stints in charge, winning the 2009 North Coast Section championship before taking over his college alma mater in 2012.

Clayton Valley CHS swimmer headed to UC Santa Barbara

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Local schools announced their athletes of the year as the 2015-16 seasons have drawn to a close and the graduating seniors reflect on their high school careers and look ahead to a new chapter of their life in college.

Page 11

Ryan Levy is headed to UC Santa Barbara after signing his commitment papers in the office of Clayton Valley Charter High School principal Jeff Eben.

The swimmer and water polo player (1st team allDVAL) was joined by his parents and fellow Eagles for cake to celebrate. He completed his high school swim career last month at the State CIF Championships. The Eagles were the top local boys team at the North Coast Section meet in Concord with a seventh-place finish.

Cal’s Kara Kohler named to Pac 12 All-Century rowing team Clayton’s own Kara Kohler was a walk-on to Cal’s crew as a freshman from Clayton Valley High with no rowing experience but has now been named to the Pacific 12 Conference All-Century rowing team following a distinguished career for the Golden Bears. During her time in Berkeley she was named conference newcomer of the year, a Pac-12 all-conference selection in 2010, 2013 and 2014 and a Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association first team all-American and all region from 20102014. An Olympic bronze medalist in 2012, Kohler is in the final stages of competing for a berth on an American crew this summer in Rio.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 10, 2016

Sports

Raiders and 49ers look to continue Bay Area dominance

TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK

What a time to be a Bay Area sports fan! The Golden State Warriors and San Jose Sharks made it to NBA and

Stanley Cup Finals in their respective sports, the San Francisco Giants are leading the NL West and the Oakland Athletics are starting to ramp up after a slow start to theirseason.

With so much success in other professional sports in the area, the Raiders and 49ers enter the summer looking to match the success of their peers.

Raiders – This really feels like the year the Raiders finally return to the postseason.

The Silver and Black added guard Kelechi Osemele, line-

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backer Bruce Irving, cornerback Sean Smith and safety Reggie Nelson via free agency.

General manager Reggie McKenzie was finally able to lure high-profile free agents to Oakland, in large part due to the already established core with Derek Carr, Khalil Mack and Amari Cooper.

McKenzie continued to add young talent through the NFL draft. With their first-round pick, the Raiders selected bone-crushing safety Karl Joseph. The self-proclaimed “hitman” out of West Virginia has received comparisons to Pro Bowl safety Earl Thomas, due to his prowess in stopping the run and his ability to cover receivers as well as a slot corner.

The Raiders also drafted

heavily on the defensive line, adding Jihad Ward out of Illinois and Shilique Calhoun of Michigan State. Ward will most likely be utilized as a defensive tackle on passing downs, while Ward could be either a defensive end or a weakside linebacker.

The Raiders are filled to the brim with talented football players. The last time someone could say that with a straight face was almost 14 years ago, but the Silver and Black are back, baby.

49ers – The 49ers had a rough season last year, to put it mildly. Chip Kelly is the new head coach. General manager Trent Baalke hired him hoping Kelly learned from his mistakes in Philadelphia.

The 49ers might not be a

Sports Shorts

SKIP IPSEN MEMORIAL BOCCE TOURNAMENT IN CLAYTON JULY 9-10

The inaugural CBCA Skip Ipsen Memorial Bocce Tournament is accepting applications for a 16-team modified Swiss format tournament in Clayton the July 9-10 weekend. Ipsen, the founder of Skipolini’s Pizza, passed away in March, less than two years after he helped dedicate the Ipsen Family Bocce Court in downtown Clayton adjacent to his first Skipolini’s restaurant.

Visit www.claytonbocce.org for details on the tournament, which will award cash prizes to the top three teams.

REGISTRATION STILL ACCEPTED FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES SUMMER PROGRAMS

Summer programs offered by All Out Sports Leagues in Clayton are taking registrations. The summer programs include adult softball and volleyball leagues plus youth basketball and football camps and youth leagues for volleyball and basketball.

For complete information on All Out Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

RED DEVILS GOLF CLASSIC RETURNS JUNE 24

The Red Devil Golf Committee is holding its 21st annual Red Devils Golf Classic on Friday, June 24, at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Proceeds help athletic and academic programs at Mt. Diablo High School. Registration starts at 11 a.m. followed by lunch, golf, dinner and raffle/silent auction.

For more information contact Lou Adamo (212-9332 or louadamo@gmail.com) or Ralph Vallis (825-7593 or rv76667@aol.com).

CLAYTON VALLEY FOOTBALL CAMP NEXT WEEK

Two-time State championship finalist and Northern California Bowl winner Clayton Valley Charter High School hosts its Future Champions Youth Football Non-Contact Camp next week, June 13-16, from 5-8 p.m. at Gonsalves Stadium on the Concord school campus for players in second through eighth grades. Camp Director Michael Dominquez and Eagles head coach Tim Murphy explain that the camp has individual and group instruction (including safer blocking and tackling technique) and team competition with fundamentals and techniques of football taught by the CVCHS staff. To register, email coach.dmngz@gmail.com or visit claytonvalleyfootball.com.

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playoff team this coming season, but there is a good amount of young talent on the roster. The strongest part of the 49ers right now is their front seven and that’s in large part thanks to their first-round draft pick DeForest Buckner.

As per usual with a Chip Kelly team, the 49ers selected an Oregon Duck, but make no mistake about it, Buckner is an absolute stud. The guy is a physical freak, standing at 6foot-7 and weighing 290 pounds. He can play a bit high at times due to his height, but if he gets coached to use his pad level to his advantage he could be a pro bowler in the near future.

Buckner will line up on the opposite side of college teammate and 2015 first-round pick

Arik Armstead, who flashed a lot of potential last season.

The 49ers will need to find an answer at quarterback though, before they can even think about competing in the NFC West.

There is so much to be excited about as a Bay Area sports fan and now it’s time for the Raiders and 49ers to step up to the plate and try to make it to a conference championship game.

Tyler Lehman is a senior at San Francisco State University and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He is majoring in print/online journalism and wants to be a sports writer.

Email your comments or questions to tyler@claytonpioneer.com.

CONCORD AYSO TAKING FALL REGISTRATIONS

Concord AYSO has in-person registration for fall league on next Tuesday, June 14, at Sports Authority on Concord Ave. from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for boys and girls up to 18 years of age.

Players can also register on line at concordayso.org. For more information email info@concordayso.org or call (925) 603-3861.

ALL GIRLS BASEBALL TEAMS FORMING IN AREA FOR NATIONAL TOURNAMENT IN SAN FRANCISCO

Baseball for All is an international organization promoting baseball for girls and its national tournament July 23-30 in San Francisco. Pat Noonan of Continental Little League is helping form East Bay teams in 8U and 10U. The teams will begin practicing after the Little League season ends. For more information contact Noonan patnoonan555@gmail.com or call (925) 7080761. Baseball for All is on the web at baseballforall.com.

MDHS HAS VOLLEYBALL COACHING POSITION OPEN

Athletic director Bryan Shaw has announced that Mt. Diablo High School has the head varsity coaching position open this fall for its girls volleyball team. If you are interested in either opening contact Shaw by email shawbd@mdusd.org or phone (925) 682-4030 ext. 87428.

CONCORD HIGH SCHOOL HAS FALL COACHING POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Concord High School is seeking girls JV volleyball and water polo coaches. All coaching positions come with a stipend.

Coaching requirements include MDUSD fingerprint, current TB and First Aid/CPR, coaching principles course, concussion course and sudden cardiac arrest course. Interested coaches can send resume to CHS athletic director Megan Coddington at coddingtonm@mdusd.org.

FOOTBALL OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION SEEKS MEMBERS

If you’ve ever thought you might want to learn more about football from the real inside the Contra Costa Football Officials Association can teach you. CCFOA provides officials for local high school and youth games along the I-680 and Hwy. 4 corridors. They are looking for new members for the upcoming fall season. Training is provided with new member evening sessions starting in mid-June. There is an all-day clinic on Aug. 14 in preparation for the new season. For information visit ccfoa.com.

CONCORD COBRAS FOOTBALL SIGNUPS TAKEN ONLINE

Concord Cobras tackle football program is taking signups for its fall season online. The football program is open for youth five to 14 years of age. For info email concordyouthfootball@ DE LA SALLE HIGH CAMPS OFFERED ALL SUMMER De La Salle High School will host athletic camps in football, yahoo.com or visit concordyouthfootball.com. water polo, baseball, track and field, wrestling, volleyball, basketMDSA GUARANTEED FALL REGISTRATION ball, strength and conditioning, swimming, soccer and lacrosse.

ENDS TUESDAY The camps are open to boys and girls in fourth through ninth Boys and girls 4-18 years of age wanting to play in Mt. Diablo grades. For complete information call (925) 288-8100 ext. 7090 Soccer Association fall league can register for guaranteed placeor email summercamps@dlshs.org. Registration is open now at ment until next Tuesday, June 15. After that date players will be dlshs.org (athletic tab). placed on wait-list. Fall league play begins in August when all 2 BASEBALL CAMP SESSIONS AT CVCHS THIS MONTH registration closes. Families are requested to sign up for volunClayton Valley Charter High School coach Casey Coakley has teer duties to help the organization offer its AYSO program. For put together a staff of current CVCHS coaches and players as complete information visit mdsoccer.org. well as Eagle alumni to provide baseball instruction to youngUGLY EAGLES BASKETBALL CAMPS NEXT 2 WEEKS sters 5-14 years of age. The summer baseball camp will consist Head coach Eric Bamberger and his Clayton Valley Charter of instruction in the fundamentals of hitting, throwing, fielding, High School coaches and players are offering a pair of Ugly catch play and other aspects of the game. Summer baseball Eagles Basketball Camps in June for boys and girls. The two sesschool sessions will be held at the school next week, June 13-17, sions for incoming third through ninth graders are June 13-17 and June 20-24. Each daily session runs 9 a.m.–1 p.m. To reserve and 20-24.

Sessions run from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. with the gym open a baseball school spot or to get more information email an hour before and after the formal camp for pickup play. The casey.coakley@claytonvalley.org. camp includes offensive and defensive instruction and games.

For more information and to register contact coach Bamberger BEREAN CHRISTIAN SCHEDULES SUMMER CAMPS Berean Christian High School is offering boys basketball, by phone (925) 726-9999 or email uglyeaglebballcamp@att.net. girls soccer and softball and FCA football camps featuring NFL JR. EAGLES SIGNUPS STILL ACCEPTED and college players and coaches as instructors will be offered in FOR YOUTH FOOTBALL, CHEER June or July. Basketball, softball and football camps are open to CVAA Jr. is still accepting registration for its football and third through ninth graders while the soccer camp is for all ages.

Registration is taken online at bereaneagles.org under cheer squads. Two of their cheer teams won national championships in January at the JAMZ Nationals in Las Vegas. Visit athletics/camps. their website cvaajreagles.com for more information and to register.

CLAYTON VALLEY FOOTBALL ADDS

NEVADA POWERHOUSE TO SCHEDULE

Clayton Valley Charter has a pair of challenging games to open its fall season. They Ugly Eagles host Reed High of Carson City, NV in their Friday, Aug. 26, opener at Gonsalves Stadium.

The game replaces a matchup with Monte Vista High. Reed has played for the Nevada State Championship three times. The following Saturday, Sept. 3, CVCHS will be in the Honor Bowl in Mission Viejo against San Diego area powerhouse Helix Charter School at 4 p.m. Helix is ranked among the top 50 teams in the US with Clayton Valley Charter rated second to De La Salle in North Coast Section pre-season rankings.

CONCORD REC HOSTING SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS

Concord Parks & Recreation Department is offering a wide variety of youth sports camps, clinics and classes this summer including Gymnastics + More, Kidz Love Soccer, Make Me A Pro camps in cheerleading, flag football and basketball, Pee Wee Cheer, Skateboard Camp, many Skyhawk camps, Water Polo Camp and World Cup Soccer. Concord Rec has on-going sports classes like swim lessons, junior tennis, Taekwondo (Little Dragons) and more. For more information on any of these youth sports programs, visit concordreg.org.

June 10, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Sports

Clayton Valley Charter teams placed in Diablo Athletic League conferences JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Practice for high school football begins Aug. 8 and the other fall sports kick off one week later so preparations for the new Diablo Athletic League are racing ahead while final administrative tasks for the soon-to-be defunct Diablo Valley and Diablo Foothill athletic leagues are being completed.

Recently appointed DAL commissioner Pat Lickiss, who served as DFAL commish for the past six years and principal for 17 years at Las Lomas High, relishes his new assignment. During the past school year long-time Amador Valley High football coach Rick Sira has handled the melding of the 12 schools, including Clayton Valley Charter, who were aligned into the new DAL super league through the quadrennial North Coast Section alignment process.

The final NCS alignment for 2016-2020 placed the seven Diablo Valley Athletic League schools (CVCHS, College Park, Concord, Ygnacio Valley, Northgate, Berean Christian and Mt. Diablo) with five Diablo Foothill teams (Acalanes of Lafayette, Alhambra of Martinez, Campolindo of Moraga, Las Lomas of Walnut Creek and Miramonte of Orinda).

The first step in setting up the new league was splitting sports into two conferences to create the most competitively equitable playing opportunities for the schools.

Except for boys and girls lacrosse each sport was divided into two conferences— most with six schools in each—that are designed to make for better competition for the member schools.

The Valley Conference in each sport will have the highest performing schools from recent years as determined by a committee of two principals and two athletic directors during the past school year. The winner of each DAL conference will get automatic qualification to NCS play, regardless of what NCS division that team is placed in based on enrollment.

In most sports the majority of the schools in the Valley Conference come from the DFAL. DVAL schools are the majority of the Valley flight in boys soccer, softball and wrestling. Boys volleyball and both basketball divisions are split evenly with three schools from each former league.

Clayton Valley Charter is in the Valley Conference for football, boys and girls soccer, wrestling, baseball and softball. Boys and girls lacrosse will have a single flight of eight or nine schools, respectively. The track and field conferences have yet to be determined.

Besides Alhambra, College Park, Concord and Ygnacio Valley, Clayton Valley will also face Hercules, Pinole Valley and St. PatrickSt. Vincent in the Foothill Conference for water polo this fall.

For more information on the DAL visit www.dalathletics.com.

FALL SPORTS Football – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, CVCHS, Concord, Las Lomas, Miramonte. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, College Park, Mt. Diablo, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley.

Cross Country – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill:

NCS, from page 10

Eagle throwers Jake King and Jack Fouts traded first and second place at DVAL in the shot put and discus while Kiersten Fouts won both events for the Eagles girls.

CVCHS relays won all four DVAL finals with 100-meter champ Jade Davis helping the girls and 100-200 double champ Jordan Velasquez the boys. Sophomore Aidan Jackman won the 110 high hurdles and 300 intermediate hurdles and tied for second in the high jump.

Boys Golf — De La Salle repeated as NCS champions

and took fifth at the Northern California championship with Josh McCarthy, Ethan Atherstone, Nick Orecchia, Travis Mitchell, Jack Gardner and Cade Mayer representing the Spartans.

Lacrosse — De La Salle was tied at six with Monte Vista in the NCS championship game before getting outscored by the Mustangs 8-0 in the second half.

Bishop O’Dowd boys and Piedmont girls were undefeated DVAL champions and each lost in the NCS championship game. Carondelet and College

Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

Girls Tennis – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, CVCHS, College Park, Concord, Ygnacio Valley.

Girls Golf – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord College Park, Mt. Diablo, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley.

Girls & Boys Water Polo – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, College Park, CVCHS, Concord, Ygnacio Valley, Hercules, Pinole Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent.

Girls Volleyball – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

Foothill: Acalanes, Berean Christian, Campolindo, Concord, Miramonte, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

WINTER SPORTS Boys & Girls Basketball – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate.

Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley.

Girls Soccer – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, CVCHS, Concord, Las Lomas, Miramonte. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, College Park, Mt. Diablo, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley.

Boys Soccer – Valley: Campolindo, CVCHS, College Park, Las Lomas, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley. Foothill: Acalanes, Alhambra, Berean Christian, Concord, Miramonte, Mt. Diablo.

Wrestling – Valley: Alhambra, CVCHS, College Park, Las Lomas, Northgate.

SPRING SPORTS Baseball – Valley: Acalanes, Alhambra, Campolindo, CVCHS, College Park, Northgate. Foothill: Berean Christian, Concord, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

Boys Golf – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, College Park, Concord, Ygnacio Valley.

Boys Lacrosse – Acalanes, Alhambra, Campolindo, CVCHS, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate.

Girls Lacrosse – Acalanes, Alhambra, Campolindo, CVCHS, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley.

Softball – Valley: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, College Park, Concord, Northgate. Foothill: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

Boys & Girls Swimming & Diving – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate.

Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, College Park, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

Boys Tennis – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

Boys Volleyball – Valley: Berean Christian, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate.

Foothill: Acalanes, Alhambra, CVCHS, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

Park made the NCS girls playoffs while CVCHS and CP joined DLD in the boys tournament.

Boys Tennis — College Park won the DVAL singles and doubles titles with the CVCHS duo of Dylan Kies and Daniel Castro second in the doubles. College Park won the DVAL singles and doubles titles with the CVCHS duo of Dylan Kies and Daniel Castro second in the doubles. The Falcons and DLS made it to the second round of the NCS team championship division tournaments.

Boys Volleyball — De La Salle won its eight NCS boys volleyball title over Dougherty

Valley in three straight sets in the finals. Spartan coach Steve Siegmann lauded his captains Bailey Militar, Ryan Byrne and Darius Monserrat-Ford for their efforts in the championship match.

DLS lost last year’s NCS finals to Deer Valley but bounced back for a 32-2 record this spring as they qualified for the Northern California tournament beginning this week as the fourth seed.

Berean Christian were undefeated DVAL champions (Clayton Valley Charter was second) and went all the way to the NCS DIII finals before dropping a three-set match to Bentley School.

Page 13

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Schools

Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Giovy Webb

Giovy, You are truly an inspiration! Success at Yale and in the real world will require continued hard work, focus and dedication, but remember no matter how busy you get, always take time to smell the roses!

Keep smiling and keep doing what you do!

We love you!

Mami & Daddy

Andrew Legault

June 10, 2016

Altair awards recognize top CVCHS students

DaVID LINzEy VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE

Each year, Clayton Valley Charter High School honors seniors for their academic, community service, athletic and leadership achievements.

The staff also announces collegiate scholarship and award winners at Senior Awards Night.

Together with Principal Jeff Eben and other department staff, I was proud to participate in the annual recognition ceremony and to

GRAND ALTAIR

ACADEMIC ALTAIR

showcase graduating seniors who have invested so much time and effort into their high school careers. In addition to their individual commitment to academic success, these students represent the best of our school community.

This year’s event was held at Centre Concord, hosted by the CVCHS Senior Women’s

Club. The Parent Faculty Club and parent volunteers provided refreshments, decorations and PFC scholarships.

The highest award recognition at CVCHS are the Altairs for scholarship, service, leadership and grand Altair. The four awards were established by the first graduating class from Clayton Valley in 1960. Altair is the name

of the brightest star in the Constellation Aquila, the Eagle. Members of the senior class select Altair candidates, and a special committee of student leaders and teaching staff make the final vote.

These students exemplify the very best at CVCHS: Grand Altair Maris Degener received the most prestigious award given to a

CVCHS student. Only those students with a 4.0 GPA or higher may be considered because the award represents all three areas: scholarship, leadership and service. Maris is the “Voice of 2016,” holding top honors in all categories. She will be addressing her fellow students at this

order, anxiety and depression reached a peak and I hit what I consider to be the rock bottom of my life.

I was always a good student. Academics were a constant in my life that I clung to as my one sense of purpose and identity. If nothing else, I had good grades, and my teachers and peers viewed me

as a well-mannered, intelligent kid.

When I was hospitalized, it was a wake-up call.

It wasn’t that I had an epiphany that I loved myself and loved my body and loved who I was. Instead, I made the decision that I would find acceptance for who I was. I radiated confidence and lived a

life of positivity and gratitude.

I was going to fake it until I became it.

Sitting in that hospital bed, looking at the sick reality I had created, I realized that my life was clay in my hands: Just as easily as I could make it spiral downward, I could use my energy to send it upward.

Then the end of senior year

came, and I got invited to Senior Awards. I really wasn’t expecting to win anything. I hadn’t ever won an award in high school. I figured I was getting something related to academics, since that was still the biggest identity I thought I had in relation to school.

MARIS DEGENER

ZACK FINE

SERVICE ALTAIR

BEN SCHOFFSTALL

LEADERSHIP ALTAIR

HOSNA OPEYANY

See Altair, pg 15

After years of struggle, student realizes her true self Wow, Congratulations!

You have made your mark at Clayton Valley, and now on to make your contribution at UC Berkeley!

And then out in to the world. We are so proud of the young man you have grown up to be.

We Love you, Mom, Dad and Ashley

Daniel O’Brien

Congratulations to Clayton Valley High School alum Daniel O’Brien who has recently earned the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree from Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. Dr. O’Brien, son of Clayton residents Michael and Kathy, will begin residency training in Internal Medicine/ Pediatrics at the University of Illinois in Peoria.

MARIS DEGENER Teen Speak

As a high school student, I never felt like I fit in. I felt awkward, incomplete and devoid of any sense of who I was and wanted to be.

These feelings contributed to the struggles of my freshman year, when my eating dis-

Clayton organizations reward local grads CBCA grants $25,000 in scholarships

Clayton AAUW awards scholarship to DVC grad, Jacqueline Franco

The Clayton Business and CBCA scholarships are are planning to continue their Community Association awarded annually to graduat- education and are current (CBCA) awarded $25,000 in ing high school seniors who Clayton residents. scholarships to several outstanding Clayton students.

Nicolette Medrano will attend CSU Fullerton to major in business. Madison Simbirdi will attend CSU Humboldt to major in accounting. Anthony Vines will attend UCLA to study actuarial science. Katie Essayan will attend Cal Poly to study hospitality management. Tyler Vandal will attend Diablo Valley College for mechanical engineering.

Jonathan Sullivan, a De La The Clayton Branch of AAUW gave a scholarship to a DiaSalle student, will attend UC blo Valley College student, Miss Jacqueline Franco. Franco is a Santa Barbara to major in Sociology major, and will transfer in the Fall to CSU San Franpolitical science. Calla Lang, a cisco. She is pictured here with AAUW member Maryann Hayes.

Mount Eagle Academy student, will attend New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology to study mechanical engineering.

Congratulate your grad

Woman’s Club aids DVC student

CBCa Scholarship recipients, (standing) Madison Simbirdi, Tyler Vandal and anthony Vines. Seated, Nicolette Medrano, Katie Essayan. Not pictured, Jonathan Sullivan, DeLaSalle and Calla Lang, Mount Eagle academy

Wrestling scholarship goes to Jacob Lynch

With a special message in the Clayton & Concord Pioneers

Dannesha Lewis is this year’s woman’s Club scholarship recipient. also shown are scholarship committee members Carole Gardner, left, Barbara Glass and Linda Brown.

Graduations and Promotions from • Pre-school • High School

See Teen Speak, pg 15

• Elementary • College

50 word message and color photo

• Middle School $

65

Send text and photo with contact information to tamara@claytonpioneer.com

Concord Pioneer — June 24 (Deadline June 15) Clayton Pioneer — July 8 (Deadline June 29) We will contact you for payment information.

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer PETE LAURENCE AND JACOB LYNCH

Jacob“Jake” Lynch received the 28th Annual Pete Laurence Wrestling Scholarship. “As a senior, Jake has been an inspiring wrestler,” Laurence said.

Jacob also received the Bill Smith Leadership Award and graduates with a 4.0+ GPA. He will attend San Diego State University in the fall, with a major in Physical Therapy. He plans to become a doctor in that field.

Each year, the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club provides a Diablo Valley College scholarship for a woman with financial need, excellent grades, community involvement and leadership skills who is transferring to a four-year university to pursue a degree.

Dannesha Lewis is the 2016 scholarship recipient. She is a reentry student focused on her

education and career goals. She has a 3.8 GPA while working 30 hours a week, plus volunteering for church and community organizations. She is also active in two honor societies at DVC. She is the first in her family to graduate from college. She plans to attend Sacramento State this fall with a major in criminal justice and a minor in computer forensics.

June 10, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 15

Congratulations CVCHS 2016 Graduates

Erica Nicole Abbas Andrew Ernest Abbett Vida Abdiani Hanna Abdu Abdulalim Hannah Lorraine Acebo Cristina Adin Glennalyn G. Ajero Haley Amber Aknin Sitara Akrami Siale Fisiiakau Cecilia Alatini Noah Monroe Aldridge Joseph Howe Allnutt Carmen Ivanna Alvarado Jessenia Alvarez Becerra Kathryn Nicole Ambrose Guadalupe Mercado Amezquita Ryan Alonso Anchondo Cole Robert Anderson Maria Guadalupe Andrade-Arnold Nala Auror Apodaca-Walker Rosanna Castro Aragon Caitlin Theresa Arango Sarah Elizabeth Arnold Jorge Miguel Arriaga Jelani Ray Ashley Jordan Brittany Ault Lakshmi Betzabe Avila-Martinez Mustafa Bahaduri Michael Jerome Baker John Edmund Balido Jordan Elizabeth Ballard Janine Gaitan Bandayrel Jensen Anthony Ilar Bangayan Brittany Sue Bangert Jacob Noble Barger Hrag Emanuel Barsoumian Christopher Stephen Bauer Erica Angela Bee Jordan Rose Ben-Shmuel Chase Le Reve Benham Amy Amanda Benitez Hannah Naomi Bercilla Jakob Duran Beronilla Zen Riveral Bersamina Jr. Cyrus Biarash Shelby Marie Blair Tyler Matthew Blazer Cameron Elizabeth Bodrug Ryan Frank Bolender Christopher Lee Bredehoft Hayley Dawn Brelje Natasha Grace Breon Nicholas Kyle Brown Christian Ronel Bulanadi Lauren Nicole Burnett Nicholas S. Bush Victoria Marie Bush Christopher David Buzis Sean Gregory Plummer Calimlim Ana Rosielle Aquino Camaddo Alfonso Campos-Gomez Abigail Michaela Cappa Julia Leeza Carbajal Elaina Jean Carlson Zachary Glen Carnesecca Sarah Litsey Carrico Michael Robert Carson Jr. Robert James Carson Emily Mariette Castaniada Ana Marie Castillo Daniel Alejandro Castro Mia Priscilla Castro Raul Alonzo Castro Brandon Tyler Cegielski Kai Muan-Lynn Chao Rey Christopher Chavez Saba Maria Chevez Nicholas Taff Chu Alexander Matthew Clark Nikolette Marie Clemons Nastassia Ming Coleman Andi Leigh Cooper Benjamin Daniel Coppa Joselyn Nicole Cortes Katelyn Breanne Courchaine Kristen Iris Cox Lynette Lin Cox Melissa Mai Cox Kaytlyn Ashley Coyne Reid Terrell Crutchfield

Anthony Cruz-Aguilar Katelyn Pauline Cunningham Kara Corinne D’Angina Gabriel David Deckard Maris Rebeca Degener Steven Michael DeHart Julia Marie DeJesus Stephanie Marie Derickson William Joseph Dewar Diane Vanessa Diaz Joseph Alonso DiLelio Nathan Aaron Discipulo Lawrence John Dombrowski Hope Noel Donithan Parker David Dresdow Kyle Joshua Duckworth Eryn Ann Dudley Kyle Robert Dugan Tyler Joseph Duncan Sierra Dawn Eggum Nicholas Alexander Enriquez Ersun Cameron Erdem Maira Alejandra Espinoza Lopez Katie Nicole Essayan Nathaniel Louis Ewing Drew Glenn Fagerlin Nicholas Anthony Ferrara Zachary Tyler Fine Joseph Deven Fobbs Geovani Andres Fonseca Ashley Nicole Franich Nicholas Anthony Fuentes Maci Catherine Gallagher Thomas Rudi Gallo Solomon Garemani Marisol Garibay Danielle Renee Gelhaus Fadee Daniel Ghiragosian Alexandria Diamond Gilbert Jessica Isabel Giron-Arango Evan John Gittleman Dylan Matthew Gois Saul Adair Gomez Carranza Diego Eduardo Gomez Robert James Gomez Yesenia Marie Gomez Dave Jordan Acbang Gonzales Benito J. Gonzalez Jr. Humberto Gonzalez Joel Angel Gonzalez Valeria Alejandra Gonzalez Andrea Elizabethann Grabher Myrdis Richard Graham Jr. Mariette Celine Grans Taniyah Monique Grays Jenna Catherine Grigsby Henry Ralph Guerrero-Duarte Sarah Christine Gwizdak Zoe Kathleen Gwizdak Abigail Lara Haas Cole Elijah Haft Abdul Rahmon Hamidi Jacob Arthur Hanson Zachary Cade Hanson Abigayle Irene Hargreaves Cheyenne Servat Harman Patrick James Ulery Harper Angelina Shea Harris Myles Jay Harrison Julia Patricia Healy Cole Matthew Hegwer Kellie Rachelle Heilberg Christian Joaquin Hein-Silva Rylee Paige Heinz Andi Nicole Hellstrom Ashlynn Nicole Hengemihle Shannon Lee Hennessy Miguel Hernandez Jimenez Odeli Hernandez Pablo Humberto Hernandez Ronaldo Hernandez Celine Edicia Herrera Alyson Lucille Hills William Brock Hogan Jack Thomas Hornsby Mason David Hornsby Annemarie Frances Hurley Austin Huynh Brendan Mikio Iwasaki Ray Anthony Jackson III

Altair, from page 14

year’s graduation ceremony.

She also served as one of our Clayton Valley Charter High student correspondents reporting on school affairs

for the Clayton Pioneer.

Scholarship Altair Zachary Fine was honored for his amazing academic performance and the difficulty

Teen Speak, from page 14

My high school doesn’t have a valedictorian. Instead, they have four Altairs: scholarship, service, leadership and the grand Altair – a combination of all three awards.

They’re the biggest honors of the night.

When they began giving the

speech for the Grand Altair, I wondered who it might be. As the speech progressed, I realized they were telling my story.

They even used my words, which I had written about how I had grown and how my life had changed. When I realized they were talking about me, I

Phenix Lee Jackson Kimmiko Donielle James Yaser Ahmad Jamshidi Chad Edward Jeffers Christian Fernando Jimenez Jessica Rose Johnson Shane Adler Johnson-Komins Daniel James Jones Devin Emily Jones Celine Chitraya Jusuf Alexa Christianna Kallas Justin David Katz Jack Richard Kelly Connor Ashton Kierstead Dylan Scott Kies Tara Emily Killoran Jacob Scott King Shawn Richard Kingsmore Andrew Michael Knauer Christopher William Knoblock Jr. Charles Andrew Kreisel Samantha Morgan Kreiser Shelby Reneigh Kreiser Gleb Kruchinin Abigail Mina Kubota Jaskirat Singh Kular Nicholas Tyler Lamph Anna K. W. Lau Ariel Myshel Lauritsen Justin Christopher Lavezzoli Cesar Augusto Ledesma Andrew Thomas Legault Kyle Brent Lehman Ryan Alan Levy Erick Vicente Leyhan Jack Raven Lilly Jacob Michael Linderman Mitchell Joseph Longman Alejandra Lopez Diego Lopez Jasmine Lopez Sarah Anne Louis Alondra Loyola Jacob Michael Lynch Nicole Marie Lyons Karyna Nicole MacLean Isabel Alinea Madrid Havana Helena Maier Steven Michael Coles Malley Sierra Anna Maria Markham Ashlie Nicole Marshall Alicia E. Martinez Valeria Martinez Graciella Lynn Martinez-Huffine Vanessa Mayorga Anthony Mirco Maytum Emily Margaret McCluhan Keira Ariana McLane Taryn Jessica Marie McPhail Christian Lee Medina Jordan Andrew Medina Marcellus Beau Medrano Nicolette Medrano Francheska Marie Melegrito Sidney McQuiller Mendoza Scott Louis Meylan Tyler Aaron Michael Mitchell James Mikkelson Jack Cleary Miller Tristen Knight Miller Brenden Gregory Millward Kelis Anthony Millward Aimee Marie Minter Maria Fernanda Miranda Chase Geronimo Mitchell Allyn Bernard Moise IV Ryan Joseph Molale Kasandra Molina Gonzalez Wren Anastasia Montijo Myla Raizel Montoya Cailin Renee Morales Daniel Alejandro Mota Castellano Madhuri Meenakshi Mudaliar Aliyah Noel Muhlestein Mirella Iris Mullins Brianna Nicole Mungo Anthony Murguia Jr Aaron Scott Murillo Micaela Emiko Muzio Susane Nader

Nazaneen Nawabi Emma Michelle Nelson Olivia Elise Nelson Rya Marie Nelson Joseph Ray Nguenti Kaden Keller Niepraschk Gianluca Melanio Nomellini Louise Fredrick Dionisio Obero Aaron James Olk Claire Estelle Olson Fatima Saida Opeyany Hosna Saida Opeyany Sayed Nuir Mohamad Opeyany Erik Peter Ortiz Matthew Thomas Osterkamp John Francis Owen Polina Ozherelyeva Andrew Nicholas Pabjanek Isaias Padilla Alyson Lauren Pagayonan Anthony Carlos Palacios Gianna Rose Pallotta Angelika Gabriella Penaredondo Panaligan Jessica Karen Parris Shelby Anne Pastorini Rachel Nicole Patchen Emily Megan Payne Alexandra May Pearse Isabelle Louise Anne Pearson Katelyn Michell Penner Riley Jake Peralta Mary Joy Pedraja Perfecto Emily Ann Petrone Charlotte Ann Phillimore James Scott Phillimore Madison Rose Pomeroy Savannah Michele Pomeroy Alondra Ponce Shmma Popal Malcolm Sydney Pratt Jennifer Nicole Prezioso Jaylin Maria Prince Stephanie Ann Punty Angel Kenny Quesada Anyssa Marie Quintana Elham Rahiq Amanpreet Kaur Ralh Narinder Kaur Ralh Eleanor Coakley Ralston Nisha Ramasubramonian Cristina Vanessa Ramos Daly Luis Ramos Grant Marius Reeg Jasmin Maglinte Regato Kala Jordon Rehm Dylan Albert Reinders Kaytlin Jo Reiter Veronica Jenelle Renner Moises Enrique Reyes-Ortiz Peyton Thomas Rhodes Julian Nicholas Rike Destiny Darlean Rinehart Carlos Francisco Rios Ortiz Benjamin Thomas Robinow Brandy Kathleen Rock Jaime Rodriguez Ruiz Adam Nicolas Rodriguez Quade Gable Root Marilyn Aleida Roque Jamel Isaiah Velasco Rosales Jason Robert Ross Kaitlyn Marie Rousseau Bradley Diego Rueda Sebastian Ruiz Laura Susannah Ruscitti Rachel Rose Saenz Sehaj Sahota Arlethe Said Alvarez Michael Cole Saint Germain Marcella Ann Salas-Rubino Isaac Ignacio Salcedo Padilla Sama Saleem Shabnum Saleh Alexis Sanchez Miguel Gomez Sarmiento Aurelia Rose Scanlon Nicholas Scott Scharton Heidi Elsa Marie Schau Benjamin Vagn Schoffstall

Daniel Scholl Malcolm Duane Scott Joseph Seddiqi Allysa Cortes Segovia Tatiana Ivonne Seminario Williamson Sen Declan Thomas Warren Shanley Mackenzie Dorothy Shea Jessica Johanna Sibrian Carolyn Ann Silva Madison Elise Simbirdi Harrison Pride Simmons Jaideep Singh Krishan Singh Nirmal Singh Jordin Evelyn Sinnott Anatoliy Vlad Sklyar Leann Summer Grace Skorlich Sierra Ellen Sleight Christopher Shaun Smith Jr. Catherine Pearl Smith Kiana Ko Smith Spencer Reed Smith Joseph Rovetti Snyder Osbaldo Solis Madison Paige Sorensen Nathaniel Robert Sovik Maria Bella Sparvoli Taylor Angelina Sproul Daraporn Sriprasert Emily Ann Stouffer Jessica Ann Stratton Katarina Michelle Strong Trenton Eugene Suddaby Madison Isabel Swenson-Ruiz Dominique Vailulu’uolefaletolu Tafao-Braganza Chanel Lynn Taliaferro Andrea Caguntas Tamayo Devon Elizabeth Taylor Isaac John Yancey Taylor Isaiah JaMeel Thurman Erin Stevie Tindall Liam Paul Totton Robert Joseph Towne Ivanna Tran Vincent Chi-Viet Tran Kylie Kristine Turner Bana Laura Twal Scott Tochi Uemura Ashley Renee Ulinger Sarah Mae Utterback Alexandria Borja Uy Emilio Andres Valentinez Tyler William Vandal Ashlee Kiana VanEpps Genevieve Mei Vargas Gabriela Renee Vega Justin Daniel Vega Jordan Gonzalez Velasquez Ana Cairel Villanueva Jayson Alden Villena Alexander Luis Villicana Derek Anthony Vines Antony Tuong-Hy Vo Tommy Quyen Vo Tyler Wagner Ashley Jean Walker Hoagland Rebecca Angeline Walsh Erin Jane Wardle Alyssa Nicole Weed Alina Chloe Weigelt Lindsey Marie Wells Josh David Wellsted Sydney Darlean Wheeler Emily Marie White Crystal Christine Whitehead Briana Krachomsri Williams Sareya Christen Williams Yasmine Athena Willing Christopher Jordan Wilson Alisha Marie Wojna James Philip Wood Brendan Sean Woodworth Marianna Anjeanae Wymore Nerisa Noriko Yokoyama Kimberly Anne Zachery Hope Den Zappas Tera Rose Zuniga Miller

of the courses taken. He excelled in all advance placement courses, including college-level mathematics.

Service Altair Ben Schoffstall was recognized for his selfless actions in giving to CVCHS and the community.

Ben was presented with this award for his active participation as a member of the Public Service Academy and involvement in multiple volunteer community programs.

Leadership Altair Hosna Opeyany was honored for her

efforts to motivate and encourage others throughout her four years at CVCHS. As student body president, she demonstrated unique leadership traits to inspire fellow students and displayed our Ugly Eagle spirit at all school

activities. She also served as president for her freshmen, sophomore and junior classes.

started to cry.

It suddenly hit me that I was loved in this community. I was in high school, and I belonged there. Other people were glad I was there. Other people saw who I was, saw the person I strove to be.

I was recognized.

I flashed back to that freshman girl who hid herself from the world. I remembered that

girl in the hospital who saw two paths in front of her and chose to make the leap. I saw, for the first time, the person I was today standing next to the person I used to be. And I knew I had truly changed.

I told everyone how shocked I was. People laughed and told me they weren’t surprised at all. They knew who was getting the award when the

speech began.

That’s what meant the most: hearing that my peers, my classmates and my friends thought I deserved to be recognized.

I was in high school. I wasn’t just enrolled, I was there. I found a way to carve out the reality that made me me.

I’m realizing I was there all

along. I was present. I was noticed. I was loved.

To be recognized is a beautiful thing.

David Linzey is executive director of CVCHS. Contact him David.linzey@claytonvalley.org

Maris Degener is a lead editor of Clayton Valley Charter High School’s newspaper, the Talon. She is also a yoga teacher at Just Be Yoga, Vinyasa Flow and Levity Longevity Fitness.

Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 10, 2016

Vagabonds mark 10 years with Follies special Performing Arts

SaLLy HoGarTy

STAGE STRUCK

The Vagabond Players will kick up their heels with a special Follies “Decades” show to celebrate the group’s first decade of performing. Songs, dances and comedy routines will highlight the performances, which take place in senior communities as well as public performances.

“This is our fourth Fabulous Follies performance,” says

attended Center Repertory’s powerhouse of energy “Rock of Ages.” It’s certainly an apt description of Chris D’Arienzo’s musical featuring classic rock songs from the 1980s, playing at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts through June 25.

Superbly directed by Dyan McBride, this story of Sherrie (Elise Youssef), an actress wannabe who comes to Hollywood’s Sunset Strip, and rock star hopeful Drew (Nikita Burshteyn) is a delight from start to finish. It features great vocals, stunning costumes, colorful characters, dazzling set and a fabulous rock band.

If you love the music of Journey, Bon Jovi, Twisted Sister, Pat Benatar and the like, this is the show for you. But I had never heard the term remember, this is a rock musi“rock/jukebox musical” until I cal. It’s loud and outrageous at times and thoroughly enjoyable.

Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org for tickets. founder and director Sharon Redmond. “We have a large cast of performers who are sure to please audiences with a wide variety of music from past decades.”

The Vagabond Players highlight the creative talents of performers over 50 and make the arts more accessible to older audiences by performing in senior centers and retirement communities.

“Decades” will perform at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez, at 8 p.m.

June 10 and 11 and at 2:30 p.m.

June 12. For tickets, go to www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/2545006. The company will then perform June 18 in Sutter Creek. For tickets, go to www.suttercreektheater.com.

Photos by www.mellophoto.com.

Jacob Judd as the sound engineer, will Springhorn Jr. as a famed rock club owner and Nikita Burshteyn as a rock star wannabe in Center rep’s “rock of ages.”

California Shakespeare Theater opened its summer season with a new adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” This streamlined version (about 100 minutes, no intermission) begins in the staging area of a catering company. As the waiters go in and out of a building where a wedding is taking place, they bring back various gossip and begin to act out the rumors they have heard. Soon each one has donned a coat or hat and become that character,

alessandra Mello

James Carpenter, Safiya Fredericks, Denmo Ibrahim, anthony Fusco, rami Margron, Lance Gardner and Stacy ross appear in CalShakes streamlined and updated version of Shakespear’s comedy, “Much ado about Nothing,” at the Bruns amphitheater through June 19.

with some men donning women’s garb and some of the women disguising themselves as men.

While it takes a moment or two to get into this conceit, the casts’ consummate skill is impossible to resist as they tell the story of the wrongfully accused Hero (Safiya Fredericks) and the clever Beatrice (James Carpenter) and sharpwitted Benedict (Stacy Ross).

Only eight actors take on the various parts, delivering a fastpaced, playful and highly entertaining version of “Much Ado About Nothing.”

The show was adapted by Kenneth Lin and Jackson Gay, who also directs. It continues through June 19 at the Bruns Amphitheater, 100 California

Shakespeare Theater Way, Orinda. Come early and enjoy a picnic on the beautiful grounds. For tickets, call 510548-9666 or go to www.calshakes.org.

The Orinda Starlight Village Players provide another outdoor entertainment option with Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Nile” at the Orinda Community Center Park Amphitheatre, 28 Orinda Way. “I love it when the audience gasps and oohs and aahs and tries to figure out who done it,” says director Suzan Lorraine. “This one will keep them guessing until the bitter end.”

The story centers on Simon Mostyn and Kay Ridgeway, who are on their honeymoon

aboard a paddle steamer on the Nile. Also present is Jacqueline, Mostyn’s former lover who has been following the couple, Canon Pennefather, Ridgeway’s guardian, and a bevy of memorable characters.

When Ridgeway is found shot in her bunk, Pennefather must figure out how, why and who before the boat reaches its destination.

“Murder on the Nile” continues through July 2. For tickets, call 925-528-9225 or go to www.orsvp.org.

Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is also the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@gmail.com

Diablo Ballet grant to help at-risk youth The California Arts Coun- let is one of 27 grantees cil will award $20,000 to Dia- statewide. blo Ballet as part of its JUMP The grants support arts StArts program. Diablo Bal- education and artists-in-resi-

Focus is on musical theater in preparation for the summer musical — “A Trip Down Broadway, Jr.” Performers will learn musical numbers from: “Annie,” “Mary Poppins,” “School of Rock” and “Seussical the Musical”

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dence programs for at-risk youth within the juvenile justice system. Activities will take place in classroom, afterschool, social services or incarceration settings throughout California. Projects are designed and developed by an arts organization and a juvenile justice/social services entity.

Diablo Ballet will use the grant to support its PEEK Extension arts education to teenagers within the Contra Costa County juvenile justice system. In partnership with Mt. McKinley School at the John A. Davis Juvenile Hall maximum-security detention facility, Diablo Ballet will increase the residency working sessions to 20 over eight months.

Based on state Board of Education standards, the program allows the artistic director, the PEEK associate

director and the professional dancers to guide 21 young women in using movement to express emotions and experiences.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled that we have been awarded this grant for the second year in a row,” said Lauren Jonas, Diablo Ballet’s artistic director and cofounder. “It has been a lifechanging experience for Diablo Ballet and the 21 girls we worked with last year.”

The project aims to track and reduce the recidivism rate over time.

“At-risk students with access to high-quality arts engagement tend to have higher career goals, better workforce opportunities, better academic results and increased civic engagement,” said Donn K. Harris, chair of the California Arts Council.

Beyond ‘The Bluest Eye’ is a dark story

June 10, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

CyNTHIa GrEGory

FOR

THE

BOOKS

When Toni Morrison’s first novel, “The Bluest Eye,” debuted in 1970, it was a revelation.

The United States was wrestling with a cultural revolution. Two Kenndys and a King were dead, struggles of the Civil Rights Movement continued, Vietnam was a quagmire and the women’s movement marched

on. It was the perfect moment for a brilliant piece of literature about the politics of color.

“The Bluest Eye” is an unflinching view of a young black girl’s life and prospects in a small town in Ohio in 1941.

Pecola Breedlove is an outcast among outcasts. She suffers under the weight of an overwhelming inferiority complex.

She is unpopular in school and taunted by classmates.

She dresses shabbily and is awkward in a way that makes her a further target for ridicule.

Pecola is continually reminded of how ugly she is. In turn, she dreams of a different set of circumstances. She dreams of being pink-skinned, with blonde

hair and blue eyes.

She believes that if she only had blue eyes, she would be popular, she would be safe.

Pecola’s mother, Mrs. Breedlove, is a harsh parent and an indifferent spouse.

She is the sole provider for her family, and everyone in her household calls her Mrs. Breedlove, even Pecola and her brother, Sammy. But the little girl who lives in the house where Mrs. Breedlove is employed as housekeeper calls her Polly. Mrs. Breedlove dotes on the little pink-skinned, blue-

‘Apocalypse’ a worthy addition to X-men series

X-Men in training members Jean Grey (Sophie Turner), Nightcrawler (Kodi Smit-McPhee) and Scott Summers (Tye Sheridan) prepare to battle an ancient mutant and rescue their friends in Bryan Singer’s ‘X-Men: apocalypse’

By the sixth X-men film, the formula is pretty much set: good mutants battle bad mutants.

Guessing which bad mutants will switch sides ends up being the only mystery.

This simple blueprint does not necessarily mean the films are poor. When done well, the X-men films are the best of the superhero bunch. They often seamlessly blend comic book action with tackling social issues.

This is the rare series that wants to talk about something while simultaneously blowing things up.

The director most synonymous with the films, Bryan Singer, returns to direct “X-men:

RICHARD LITTORNO INSIGHT ON

ESTATE PLANNING

The Budget Bipartisan Act of 2015 (BBA) closed two popular loopholes for future Social Security benefits. As a result, certain retirees may now realize less in the way of benefits during their lifetime and leave a smaller nest egg for their heirs.

But astute planning can still maximize the Social Security benefits you’re entitled to receive during your retirement years.

Generally, you may receive monthly benefits based on your earnings history or your spouse’s history, whichever produces the higher amount of benefits, and the age when you apply for benefits. You’re entitled to 100 percent of the allowable benefits if you wait until your “full retirement age” (FRA) before applying for benefits. You can opt for a reduced monthly benefit if you apply early or a greater monthly benefit if you wait until after your FRA to apply.

The FRA, established by the Social Security Administration (SSA), is based on your date of birth. For example, the FRA for someone who was born before

Apocalypse.” While it does not reinvent the genre, “Apocalypse” certainly provides an enjoying conclusion to the second trilogy of the X-men series.

The previous two X-men films used the Cuban Missile Crisis and xenophobia as their respective backdrops. “Apocalypse” leaps forward to 1983, right in the middle of the Cold War. A 10,000-year-old being, En Sabah Nur (Oscar Isaac in a fearsome role), awakens and wants to cleanse the planet. He does not believe the people in charge have earned their position. To him, they are too weak to have so much power.

Like an omnipotent media-

tor in the nuclear arms race, En Sabah Nur does not pick a side; he just levels the playing field by removing all the nukes from the equation. If only the real Cold War could have been solved so easily.

While En Sabah Nur gathers his Four Horsemen (Storm, Angel, Psylocke and a recentlyturned-evil-again Magneto), Mystique reluctantly returns and recruits a handful of good mutants under the tutelage of Professor Xavier (James McAvoy). We get a modicum of backstory on some of our favorite mutants, like Cyclops (Tye Sheridan) and Nightcrawler (a jovial Kodi Smit-McPhee), but we know most of them already so they don’t really need any introductions.

The previous entry, 2014’s excellent “Days of Future Past,” provided a handful of mutants new to the film series – creating a lot of dread whenever they were endangered. With “Apocalypse” using so many familiar characters, we know that most of the mutants found in 2000’s “X-men” are in no danger. The action – specifically during a cameo appearance by a beloved mutant – is great, but the suspense is mostly absent.

eyed blonde girl under her care in a way that reveals her deep affection for pretty things: pretty kitchen, pretty dishes, pretty children.

Pecola’s father, Cholly Breedlove, is an unapologetic drunk. Cholly and Mrs. Breedlove are locked in a passionate battle that binds them to one another irrevocably. They fight fiercely, with a tired, bitter kind of love. They maintain a fragile domestic balance punctuated by violent outbursts until Cholly comes home drunk one

day and rapes his daughter as she stands at the kitchen sink, doing dishes. The second time he forces himself on her, she becomes pregnant. Cholly finally abandons his family as the sins against Pecola escalate.

The abused girl’s only friends are Claudia and Frieda MacTeer.

The MacTeer family brings Pecola in temporarily as a foster child, and the sisters take on Pecola as a sort of special project. After Pecola becomes pregnant, the girls decide to divert the money they’ve been earning selling garden seeds in order to buy a bicycle to help Pecola.

They want her baby to live, for her to win somehow, to produce something beautiful and right.

JEFF MELLINGEr

SCREEN SHOTS

The film works despite sticking to the X-men formula. Yet one thing that has become far too formulaic in the series is the reliance on the ambiguity of Magneto’s disposition. He is a tortured soul, and Michael Fassbender is excellent conveying his pain. However, too much of the film is spent with Mystique and Professor X trying to convince Magneto to spurn evil, just like in the last movie.

Had Singer steered away from this plot device, the rest of “Apocalypse” feels fresh enough to stand fine on its own. Now we await the next film, which will surely explain why Magneto and Mystique turned bad prior to “X-men.” Sometimes, connecting the plot dots can be worth the effort.

B

able. If you suspend your benefits, your spouse’s benefits will likewise be suspended. However, if you were already using this method, the benefits are “grandfathered in” and you’ll still receive the higher amount.

Restricted application strategy. Using this technique, a spouse who’s approaching FRA and is eligible for benefits based on both his or her earnings history and the other spouse’s earnings history files a restricted application for spousal benefits only. Then the spouse waits until age 70 to apply for benefits based on his or her own history.

This enables the spouse’s Social Security credits to continue to grow.

The BBA eliminated the option to file a restricted application for only spousal benefits. If you turned age 62 after 2015, you must claim all of your benefits upon filing, based on the higher amount of your own or spousal benefits.

While you won’t be able to sock away as much as you could before the new law, there’s still plenty of flexibility if you intend to retire early or wait until a later age to stake your claim.

Consult your advisor to coordinate your Social Security strategies with other aspects of your estate plan to deliver the optimal results for your situation.

Instead, Pecola loses the baby and then loses her mind.

And who can blame her? Who could endure the kind of hardship she has and not revert to a make-believe world where she gets everything she wants, beginning with pretty blue eyes?

Morrison’s debut novel is not an easy read, yet it is an important one. For the well-informed reader, “The Bluest Eye” is a must-read.

Cynthia Gregory is an author, blogger and coach. Read her blog at www.persephonesstepsisters.com.

Her book, “Journaling as Sacred Practice: An Act of Extreme Bravery,” is published by Green Tara Press and is available on Amazon.

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Jeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. He lives in Concord.

Email comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com.

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Social Security loopholes gone, but options remain 1938 is age 65, the “traditional” retirement age. But it gradually increases to age 66 for those born between 1943 and 1954, encompassing the majority of the Baby Boomer generation.

For younger people, the FRA stretches even further until it reaches a maximum of age 67 for those born after 1959.

If you’re a Baby Boomer and opt for early retirement, you can start claiming Social Security benefits as soon as age 62 – although your monthly benefits will be reduced by about 30 percent. The reduction gradually decreases as you near your FRA. If you delay retirement past your FRA, your monthly benefit will increase by about 8 percent a year until maxing out at age 70.

The new law ends two loopholes that enabled savvy retirees to increase their monthly benefits in the past: File-and-suspend strategy.

The SSA allows an individual worker to initially claim benefits and then suspend them, thereby earning Social Security credits until age 70. Typically, a higherearning spouse would apply for benefits at FRA and then suspend them until age 70. In the meantime, the lower-earning spouse could claim benefits based on the higher-earning spouse’s earnings history.

Under the new law, this fileand-suspend strategy isn’t avail-

Page 17

Local, experienced Concord & Clayton references Quality cleaning 100% guaranteed.

Richard A. Littorno is an attorney specializing in estate planning. He has offices in Walnut Creek and Pittsburg. Send your questions by email to Richard at Richard@LittornoLaw.com.

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Oakhurst Country Club

Celebrate summer with a new membership at one of the area's best country clubs.

Membership Includes:

• Access to our beautiful clubhouse with amenities such as a fully stocked pro shop with special member pricing • Formal and casual dining and a private members' lounge • Yearlong calendar of social activities, dining events, and golf & tennis tournaments • Access to our Junior Olympic-sized swimming pool and state-of-the-art fitness center and childcare facilities.

Contact us today to take a private tour of the club and join us for lunch, on us.

Call Susie at (925) 672-9737, ext. 205 or email ssutton@oakhurstcc.com.

1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton

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Cabinets an integral part of any home project Page 18

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Whether it’s custom designed, refinished, repurposed or purchased at a big box store, cabinetry should be functional and aesthetically pleasing.

New cabinetry may not always be the first priority in a design project. You may have a perfectly organized kitchen, with sturdy cabinet frames, doors and drawers – but the color is dated. No matter how many accessories you add to countertops, that neon-like, golden yellow oak just takes over.

Instead of new cabinetry, consider refinishing. If you’re handy and artistic, chalk paint may be the answer to a fresh new look. If you’re more of a traditionalist, painting or restaining cabinetry may be better options.

Whether you have fearless DIY confidence or prefer to work with a contractor and painter, refinishing cabinetry

is a smart way to update a look. When playing with glazing and distressing, never assume that a color will be “fine.” Always test, and retest, colors to ensure a perfect out-

come.

Cabinetry redesign can be an exciting project. In the kitchen, it means customizing how you’d like to use your work space. Consider placing

Club News

June 10, 2016

cooking tools at various cooking and prep stations and adding specialty storage for small countertop appliances and food items.

In the garage, custom storage may mean creating specialty cubbies for paint cans and supplies, or a one-of-akind workbench. Opt for closed pantry type doors for outdoor brooms, rakes and shovels, or storage bins for clothing and toys.

In the bathroom, customizing storage may include a plug on the interior of a drawer for a hair dryer or curling iron, or a mini-appliance garage for shaving sets or electric toothbrushes. Pullout shelves for

makeup and towels are great, as is a lowered countertop for a chic makeup vanity.

Custom cabinetry is just that: designing not only the exterior but really thinking about how the interior design can benefit your functional needs. Online sources like Pinterest and Houzz can provide amazing ideas. They also may offer feedback on ideas that seem great in theory, but just aren’t worth the time or budget.

Function is always a good place to start. Make sure cabinetry not only has a great color or unique finish but also provides a specific function to enhance your daily routine.

MIKE MarCHIaNo

warmed by the sun.

Like all reptiles, lizards are cold-blooded and are affected by the ambient temperature.

They move in or out of the sun and shade to regulate body temperature. These lizards possess a “third eye” on the top of their heads that works like a thermostat to assist in this.

The color of these lizards will change from dark gray/almost black to a light gray-brown with small chevron-like makings as they warm up. The dark coloration absorbs more heat in the early hours, while the lighter coloration reflects some heat later in the day.

JENNIFEr LEISCHEr

DESIGN & DÉCOR Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.

Western lizard a common yet important sight in yards, parks

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club

The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club held its Celebration of Giving on May 10 at Diamond Terrace in Clayton.

Each May, the Club presents monies raised by past fundraising activities to select community organizations.

Checks were presented this year to Hospice of the East Bay and Meals on Wheels, as well as the Clayton Community Library, Clayton Historical Society and Concord Historical Society.

The Clayton Valley Woman’s Michele Pryor Club meets at 10 a.m. on the second (Back row) Sandra Nepacena and Joann Caspar from Clay- Tuesday of the month, except July ton Historical Society, Daniel Jordan of Hospice of the East and August, at Saint John’s EpiscoBay, Nancy raniere of Meals on wheels, Carol Longshore pal Church, 5555 Clayton Road, of Concord Historical Society, Mary–alice McKillen-wright Clayton. Guests are welcome to of Clayton Community Library and (front row) Dannesha attend meetings and social events.

Lewis, scholarship winner and Erica Marcus from Meals on For more information, call 672wheels received donations from the Clayton Valley 7947 or go to claytonvalleywomanwoman’s Club at their Celebration of Giving event in May. sclub.org.

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Whether you call it a blue belly, a swift, a spiny, a Western fence lizard or Sceloporus occidentalis, it is all the same to the little gray-brown lizard commonly seen in back yards and local parks.

This was the first lizard I encountered as a child. I would find them running up and down oak trees, sunning themselves on fallen logs and rock piles or sitting on top of a fence post – hence the name fence lizard. It is extremely fast and elusive, or “swift,” when

Hackers are getting smarter every day

w e i V o l Diab truction Cons Remodeling Specialist

MOUNTAIN MIKE

wILL CLaNEy

TECH TALK

In the cyber world shrouded with data hijackers, the sad fact is you are already being hacked.

Your only real protection against such threats isn’t so much a great antivirus, or malware killers, nor is it strict rules given to employees not to open suspicious emails. Your best chance at survival is a backup.

Here’s the Catch-22: Backups can also be rendered useless because crypto-locker searches your network for backup devices.

News feeds tell the tale of millions paid to data hijackers.

Your mind and heart race at the thought of you being hit. You need a backup, but you don’t have one or it is an attached external or network drive. That’s not good enough. So now you’re stuck on the horns of a dilemma. Is your backup safe? Likely, no as the bad guys just advanced the game. You need a secure backup.

A local cable company was hit and nearly lost their business to a crypto Trojan. As you may know, the crypto Trojan encrypts and locks all your data then demands a ransom be paid

by Bitcoins. You have three days to come up with $500 or else your files are gone.

Crypto-locker and its copycat variants are hard. They scramble documents like Word

and Excel files, photos, accounting and bookkeeping records — everything, including backups.

Charles Lungren, a local representative for A‘n D Cables, got hit. All access to his data was cut off. Lungren is a customer of ours so we know when his company is down they are out of business. He explains how he opened an email from an attorney, one he thought was his. As soon as he opened it his computer, the server, and all other client computers were infected and all his files had been encrypted.

My first question to Charles, “do you have backups?”

Charles, “I don’t know.”

This was the second such crypto incident this week. The first victim a contractor who lost everything, a lifetime of memories, photos, projects he designed, a lifetime of work.

Devastating. The good news we recovered from his secure backups.

There is no way to recover encrypted data. For example, even in Apple’s dispute with the

Feds over the terrorist iPhone data, it took a millions dollars and a genius to work around the issue, but the encryption was never cracked.

Lungren is our customer.

Preventative measures were put in place during one of our normal customer security checks that prevented the payload from activating. It blocked the cyber key from embedding itself. Files were recovered manually.

Are you ready to risk it all?

Or, will you pay the ransom? Pay and there’s no guarantee you get the key or they don’t hit you again. The attack starts with an attractive email that is hard to resist or looks legitimate.

To safeguard yourself you need two things: a friend in the computer business and a secure backup. To discuss either or both contact your computer expert now.

As children, we used tiny nooses to snare these lizards.

Or, we’d spend hours chasing one before catching it by hand.

Anyone who has caught one of these lizards knows that its tail is detachable and will break off very easily if grabbed. This defense mechanism is common to many lizard species as a means to escape predators.

They then grow a new tail.

These “spiny” lizards also have keeled scales, making them feel rough like sand paper. If you catch one, it’s easy to see why they are called blue bellies. The male lizards have bright blue patches on both sides of their bellies and under their throats, as well as a yellow marking on their hind legs. Female lizards are nowhere as brightly colored, but they do have light blue patches on their under side.

It’s fascinating to observe these lizards doing “push-ups” on a sunny perch in spring and summer, declaring to other lizards and the world that this is their territory. If another male challenges for that location, a melee ensues – with the lizards wrestling and holding each other with open jaws.

This can last for several minutes, until one retreats. The other returns to the perch, again doing push-ups, flashing its blue undersides and declaring to any female lizard or other male that he is the most macho lizard in the land.

Rarely is either individual injured. It is more like playing king of the mountain and tiring out the opponent.

Females observing these fights are more attracted to the winners. After mating April through July, the female will lay up to a dozen eggs. These hatch in August or September.

These lizards feed on a variety of arthropods, including flies, beetles, spiders, crickets and caterpillars. Consider yourself fortunate if you have them in your yard, because it is a sign of a balanced ecosystem.

Do not use pesticides or other poisons around lizards.

Cats are their No. 1 predator in inhabited areas, followed by habitat destruction.

The scientific name Sceloporus occidentalis simply means Western spiny lizard.

But whatever you call them, lizards are an intricate part of life in Contra Costa County and they should be encouraged and protected.

William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of ComMike Marchiano is a naturalist puters USA in the Clayton Station. with the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Email questions or comments to will- Association. Contact him at claney@gmail.com. mmarchiano@gmail.com

New tile store a family affair June 10, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

From the family quarries in Italy to a sleek, modern tile store in Clayton, Sal Santangelo has a long history with marble and stone.

At 12, he was working in the family quarries mining the rich, cream colored marble stones that would be crafted for homes all over Europe and the Middle East.

In 1977, he brought his experience and skill to the Bay Area, and started a tile installation business.

Over the years, it seemed a logical progression to the retail tile business was inevitable.

“Our customers kept asking us for advice on where to buy their stone and tile,’ says Sal’s wife, Cori Santangelo.

When they moved to Clayton two years ago, “it just seemed time.”

They found a good location in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center and started ordering

his crew will handle all details of the installation.

Sal, Cori and Jacklyn live on Morgan Territory Rd. with son Vincent, a Diablo View Middle School student.

They moved in two years ago and have been working non-stop on remodeling and landscaping projects.

Italian Heritage Tile and Stone is in the Clayton Valley Center toward the back, next to Fashion Cleaners and Clayton Valley Frameworks.

Visit their website at www.italianstoneandmarble.com Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer to view their gallery of projects Italian Heritage Tile and Stone’s onsite manager, Jacklyn and learn more about the famiSantangelo, with mom, Cori Santangelo. The new business ly’s history. is in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center.

Or stop by the store to brose and give a welcome to the new inventory. Italian Heritage Tile gelo is the store’s full time local business.

See ad below for hours. and Stone opened last fall. manager.

Their showroom is beautiRaised in the business, this ful. The walls and aisles are DVC student knows her stuff. lined with enough gorgeous From choosing the right prodmarble, tile and stone samples uct, finish and color to proper to satisfy every home decorat- care and maintenance, she has ing appetite. you covered. And when you’ve Daughter, Jacklyn Santan- made your selection, Sal and

Grand Opening

Mayor, from page 1

Tournament of Champions in early summer. They will also be forming All-Star teams for 10-, 11- and 12-year-olds who will play for a chance to go to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa. CVLL is an all-volunteer organization that has been in our community since 1964 and is one of the most successful Little Leagues in the Bay Area. They use sports fields throughout Concord and Clayton and help teach our children teamwork and sportsmanship. If you are interested in volunteering for this great organization, go to

mer Credit Recovery to allow returning students to complete classes online that they failed or want to make up due to earning a D. About 250 students will be attempting one or two courses during the summer.

It is partly due to these types of programs that CVCHS has been so successful in moving its graduation from 83 percent precharter school to an impressive 98 percent. This rating equals the top-rated public schools in our region. It is no wonder CVCHS has become the school of choice for students in the Clayton Valley and neighboring communities.

10 Off %

$500+

www.cvll.org and let them know.

Clayton Valley Charter High School – With graduation around the corner, I am sure many students will be enjoying summer breaks, vacations and time with friends and relatives.

CVCHS offers freshman students their Summer Bridge to Success Program. This provides all incoming freshmen with an opportunity to get a head start in English and Algebra or learn valuable time management and organizational skills. About 400 incoming freshmen will participate.

Send comments to the mayor at CVCHS also offers a Sum- hgeller@ci.clayton.ca.us.

Professional Installation of Tile, Stone and Glass Mosaics Certified Fabrication of all Quartz material Complete Remodeling Service Showroom Hours: T/TH/F 11-6; M/W 12:30-6; Sat 11-3. Or by appointment Closed Sunday

Like us on

Clayton Road (Suite F) – Clayton, CA

* Sample discount is per person, based on double occupancy in a Club category room on select weeks at Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico, Sandpiper Bay, USA, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Discounts on other dates, room categories and/or at other resorts may vary.

Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. Offer requires a 3-night minimum stay (7-night minimum for Columbus Isle).

Available at select resorts. Does not include airfare. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates with check-out on or before December 17, 2016 and must be booked by June 22, 2016. Offer is subject to capacity control and may increase at any time. † Children aged under 4 years stay for free at our family destinations. Children aged 4-11 years stay at up to 50% off adult price at select family resorts. Children aged 12-15 years stay at up to 40% off adult price at select family resorts. For flights that are booked through Club Med, tickets for children must be paid for by the client. Children who are eligible to stay for free must be lodged in the same room as the adults who are paying for their stay, or in a connecting room. Blackout dates may apply. Costs associated with Baby & Petit Club Med are at full day rate during entire stay booked. General Conditions: Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. For Turkoise all guests must be 18 and older. Guests at Columbus Isle must be 2 and older. Club Med Membership fees of $60 per adult and $30 per child are additional. Other restrictions apply including brochure terms and cancellation/ change fees. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. CST#: 2020955-50.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

• 959 Alla Avenue

• 3079 Peppermill Cir.

4 bedroom, 2 bathroom Approx. 1874 sq.ft.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Approx. 1637 sq.ft.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

Listing agents: Paula Johnstone & Rula Masannat

l

Clayton Station Shopping Center 5439,

3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1192 sq.ft.

$425,000

• 3799 Saint Peter Ct.

Concord — $639,000

travel-2-go.com

www.italiantileandstone.com

• 2678 Mayfair Ave., Concord

PENDING

Ph: 925.672.9840

925.672.9000; Showroom 925.822.7037; Installation

Clayton Valley Shopping Center • 5420 Ygnacio Valley Rd Suite #40, Concord next to OSH and FrameWorks • Locally Owned by Clayton Residents

ACTIVE LISTING

CST #2033054-40

Page 19

l

l l

Pittsburg — $275,000

Concord — $599,000

SOLD

5216 Valmar Dr., Concord

PENDING: Buyer Representation 121 Mt. Shasta Ct. Clayton

SOLD: Buyer Representation

961 Mitchell Canyon Rd. Clayton 1792 Elmhurst Ln. Concord

$472,000

Matt Mazzei

$839,000

Matt Mazzei

$740,000 $559,000

Matt Mazzei Rula Masannat

Matt Mazzei, Jr.,

Paula & Rod Johnstone

Rula Masannat

BRE# 01881269

DRE# 00797857

DRE# 01923757

Broker Associate

Broker/Owner 925-766-6745 mazzeirealty@yahoo.com

Paula 925-381-8810 Rod 925-286-5765

heypaula10@gmail.com

mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959

925-693-0757 (Main)

l

Sales Agent 415-310-2905 rulawithmazzei@yahoo.com

6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton

925-693-0752 (Fax)

Bright and bold, lantana sparks up any garden Page 20

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

NICoLE HaCKETT

GARDEN GIRL

Let’s hear it for lantana, one of Clayton’s most summerhardy families of plants.

Lantana boasts prolific blooms of gold, purple, pink, red, orange and white from early summer through late fall.

Lantana plants are easy to grow, water-wise and long-blooming.

The most common lantana sold is the trailing purple groundcover. It has a small,

oval, dusty green, textured leaf.

Woody stems stretch out 3-4 feet and are covered with nickel-sized, grayish-purple globes of tiny flowers. Trailing purple lantana puts on some height as it matures, so expect piles to eventually reach more than 2 feet tall. The height appears more quickly if you have to control the width.

Trailing white lantana is also popular. This selection grows just as well as the purple, with all the same growth habits. The leaf color and texture are the same, but the flower is white.

New Gold is an exciting, bold yellow trailing Lantana with dark green, small, textured leaves. Its superior yellow color really stands out in the landscape. Consider mixing New Gold lantana around red foliage plants for a nice contrast.

Bush lantanas are desirable, with more color selections.

They tend to develop slowly into shrubs, reaching 2-4 feet tall and wide. This will take some time, because our cold winters slow the process. Dallas Red, Confetti and Irene are the most popular bush colors. They have been around for years and are predictable and reliable.

Dallas Red’s color takes a journey. The globe-shaped flower begins as a group of small red flowers with some gold and orange in the mix. As the flowers mature, the gold and orange turn to a bright, yellow-based red.

Confetti starts out as one shade and changes into another. The flower begins as a group of pastel pink and yellow, with just a couple of white tiny flowers creating its globe.

Within a day, the multi-colored

June 10, 2016

LANTANA IRENE

pastel blossom changes to nice light pink. Confetti isn’t the showiest lantana, but when planted against a dark backdrop, like an old fence, it comes alive.

Irene starts off as a globe of mostly magenta pink, with a handful of tiny orange and yellow accent flowers. The blossom matures to a solid magenta. This bold color works well

ly-run operation. Al Gotelli and his brother Del Gotelli started with one ranch of cherries in the early 1950s and expanded beyond that. In 1954, in partnership with John and Mel Oneto, the brothers formed Oneto-Gotelli Packing.

The rain from this year’s El Nino helped ground water levels and gave tree roots the water they needed.

“This year’s wet El Nino weather brought relief to the drought stricken areas of California. The rain was a blessing for farmers all over the state,” There will still be plenty of plump, juicy cherries at the says Drew Rotner, who marFarmers Market on Saturday. Stop by and say hello to Drew ried into the Gotelli family and rotner and take home a bag before they are out of season. now appears at farmers markets as well as working the

orchards.

“However, rainfall does present its challenges, especially during cherry season. Rainfall causes cracking and many cosmetic defects in cherries.

This is a hardship faced by many cherry growers this year, and it serves as a reminder that we are at the mercy of Mother Nature,” Rotner adds. “We still have four to five weeks left of harvesting cherries, and we are optimistic for an overall great season.”

Here’s a Gotelli family recipe:

with red foliage and blue flowering plants.

Colorful lantana thrives in Clayton landscapes and gardens June through November.

During the winter, it can appear dry and dead.

Treat it like a perennial.

Enjoy the lantana when it’s beautiful, and don’t fret when it rests. In the middle of March, cut back the dry, woody stems to make room for the new season’s growth.

Lantana attracts bees and butterflies and is also pest- and disease-tolerant. It is a great installation for anyone needing blasts of bold color in their summer landscape.

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden.

You can contact her with questions or comments by email at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

Gotelli cherries carry on family tradition at Clayton market DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market

In the orchards of the fertile valleys of Northern California, cherry trees benefit from nutrient-rich soil, sunny days and mild nights. These superior growing conditions result in bountiful harvests at this time of year.

To get some of the best California sweet cherries, visit Gotelli & Sons at the Clayton Farmers Market every Saturday. Joe Gotelli founded the farm some 55 years ago, after emigrating from Italy and planting cherries along the Calaveras River near Stockton.

The business represents three generations of the fami-

Nancy E. Bennett Single-Story Concord Charmer!

2450 Charlotte Ave., Concord

GRANDMA HARVEY’S CHERRY COBBLER 2-3 c. pitted cherries ¾ c. sugar

3 T. melted butter 1 c. all-purpose flour ¼ tsp. salt 1 tsp. baking powder ½ c. milk Topping: 1 c. sugar 1 T. cornstarch 1 c. boiling water

Place cherries in the bottom of a 9-inch square pan.

Mix next six ingredients and spread dough over cherries. In a small bowl, combine 1 c. sugar and cornstarch. Stir in boiling water. Pour mixture over the dough.

Bake at 350 for 45 minutes.

Serve warm.

Nancy sells more than 8 times as many homes as the average realtor, call today to learn how.

4398 N. Winterberry Ct, Concord

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Single-level living in The Crossings at its best! 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,641 sq ft, open floor plan, dark wood floors, vaulted ceilings and lots of natural light. Enjoy outdoor living with garden landscaping & covered back deck.

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Move in ready single-story home in a well established neighborhood. This adorable home features many new updates and plenty of charm. With 4 bed/2 bath, this home boasts new and updated kitchen with new granite counter tops, new stainless steel appliances, updated lighting, new carpet and fresh paint throughout the property. Conveniently located close to public transportation. A fantastic place to call home!

Offered at $520,000

Thinking Of Selling? Homeowners — we have dozens of buyers that want to purchase a new place before summer! If you are considering making a change please call us to learn how we can help you achieve maximum results from your home sale now and take advantage of today's market.

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Delightful single-story home Enjoy the aroma of roses as you walk up to this lovely property. 4 bedrooms/2 bathrooms, 1210 sq ft, updated lighting throughout. Fantastic neighborhood super close to BART & on the border of Walnut Creek.

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A complete remodel and tons of privacy! This 4 bed/2.5 bath single-story beauty just underwent a gorgeous renovation. New flooring throughout and incredible master suite with a soaking tub and walk-in closet.

Enjoy entertaining by the in ground pool and expansive patio! OFFERED AT $1,450,000

We helped over 43 families buy and sell homes again so far in 2016. How can we help you and your family today?

Nancy Bennett, Realtor @ Keller Williams Realty #1 Realtor in Concord, #1 Team, Keller Williams East Bay #5 Team Nationally (U.S. & Canada) Keller Williams Agent Leadership Council, Mentor, Faculty Member and Community Sponsor

CalBRE #01399870

Nancy@BennettBetter.com

925.606.8400

BENNETTBETTER.COM